Thoughts of A Mother, Wife, & Daughter

30 Attributes 24-27 and Random Thoughts

2012-01-26T11:00:00.000-05:00

He is my PURIFIER:
Mal 3:3 And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering of righteousness.

He is My HIDING PLACE:
Ps 32:7 Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me form trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance.

He is My SHADE FROM THE HEAT:
Is 25:4 For thou hast been a strength for the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.

He is My REFINER:
Mal 3:2 But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers soap:

Here is also something for you to ponder on today:

At a time when all politicians are trying to separate and divide our nation. It would be wise for all of us to remember what Jesus told us.....

Mark 3:24 And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom can not stand

We as a nation MUST come together and stand as one before we fall.

Finding Hope in the Midst of Chaos

2012-01-24T09:00:00.000-05:00

Dear Diary,

Ever had a revelationsmack you right in the forehead. Wellthat’s what happened to me, just the other day.

I have prayed that God help me to be more obedient to hiswill and I want to clear my heart of any darkness that lies within it, thatshouldn’t. Then it hits me like a sledgehammer to the head.

A lot of times when searching our hearts and souls we findsome unresolved issues, and of course I am no exception to this rule. So now how to change my heart. The revelationis where I have to start. But first Ihave to tell you the whole story so that you can understand. So here it is…

Year ago I had a friend named Claire. We were in middle school when we firstmet. From that moment on and untilgraduation we spent every waking moment together. We like many young girlsplanned out our whole lives together. We would be friends until the end. That was at least until, the BIG fight!

You see after graduation, she met someone and I met hubby,so we began to grow apart. In growing apart our trust levels for each otheralso diminished greatly. So when amutual friend of ours started playing the “She said this and she said that”game we fell right into it. By the timewe finally confronted each other we were so pissed that we both said some prettyawful and nasty things. All the vulnerabilities that we had shared were nowfair game.

We didn’t speak for again until the day that I got married,which was a year or so later. Ourmothers had remained friends and her mother encouraged her to come over and congratulateme. We only exchanged pleasantries, of course. Then again after the birth of myoldest daughter she arrived again, but this time was different. She wanted morethan just pleasantries between us. She said she was sorry for all the hurt andpain that had been caused between us. She wanted what we once sharedagain. I in exchanged agreed that weshould just move forward from there and see what happened.

We did just that, we moved forward. In the coming years shemoved to Texas and she got married. We still talked once or twice a weekthough. About a year or so after she got married, she called and announced shewas pregnant and they were moving home to be closer to her parents. A week later I found out that I was pregnantwith my second daughter. We were soexcited that we would now be together and pregnant. Those months were some ofthe best as we exchanged baby information and how we were feeling each day. Ihad already had one child so I tried to help prepare her for childbirth and howher life would change once she became a parent.

We were due one week apart. Her due date was Mar 29 and minewas Mar 17. But she beat me to the punch and had her daughter on my due date.Here’s the funnier part though I had my second daughter exactly 12 day later onMar 29. Often funny how things work out isn’t it.

During the course of our pregnancies though I could see thestrain on her marriage. Honestly the guy was a real jerk anyway. He and I neverdid get along. He even once told her that she couldn’t be friends with me. Thatdidn’t go real far with her. But anywaythat is neither here nor there. This wassupposed to be the most important time of their lives as they prepared for thebirth of their first child, but instead he just pulled away and becameselfish. Shortly after their daughter’sbirth, they separated. All I could dowas try and hold her hand through it. Claire went back twice, but after the second time she decided that theywere much better off apart. While goingthrough this we spent as much time as lives and families would allow. We spoke on the phone on the days that weweren’t together. Slowly over time as she began to heal that changed.

Soon though life and families did get in the way, but wetalked as often as we could. A couple ofyears later she had found someone new and announced she was expecting again.Unfortunately, it didn’t take him long to decide that this wasn’t for him. Sohere she was again a single mom, but now having to take care of two children. Iapplaud her for making the decision to keep moving on in light of the fact thateach of these idiots moved on. They have no idea what they have missed, becausethere are moments in each of these children’s lives that they missed out, buther she will get to treasure each of those memories the rest of her and theirlives.

I tried to be there the best I could, but again life justkept drawing us further apart. Thingsbecame more complicated after the birth of her second daughter. At a month old, Claire was informed that herdaughter had some serious health issues that would have to be dealt withcontinually. It seemed the older herdaughter got the harder it was. It wasdoctor appointment after doctor appointment and hospital visit after hospitalvisit. Even though I could not be there physically I tried to be there for heremotionally. But the phone calls had gotten to be once a month if we were luckyand the visits with each other were now none existent. Then it all just stopped. We didn’t speak again until after the birthof my third child, but it has never been like it was before. The last 10 yearsit has pretty much been hit and miss. And even when we do speak it’s usuallyjust pleasantries. I have thought abouther on many occasions and yet I seemed content with the way things have beenbetween us. That is until now.

This now brings me back to present time and the revelation. Here is what happened next….

Finally I mustered up the courage to call Claire and sheanswered on the second ring. We exchangepleasantries and then I just cut straight to the chase before I lose mynerve. I explain about my journey andthat God had showed me how I had let her down as a friend. I knew in my heartthat when she really needed someone to hold her hand or a shoulder to cry on, Ihad failed her. I expressed to her howsorry I was and if I could go back and change things I would, but I can’t. Soall I have to offer her was an “I’m sorry” and I want to try again to find ourfriendship. For I miss my friend. Through my own tears I hear her say “I forgive you and I have missed youto my friend.” After many hours of tears and laughter we have both agreed thatwe would no longer allow things to come between us, the way they have before.We have also agreed that we will be totally honest with each other abouteverything, and not get mad at the other when we are honest. We have decidedthat we don’t have to talk everyday but we need to do better than once everysix months and that at least once a month we will get together to catch up onall the things that we have missed.

I must say that since calling Claire last week, we havetexted each other every day (like children would) and have already planned whenwe will be getting together next month. I am glad that God made me remember myfriend and what was between us. I am glad that he sent me back to her to findout what will become of us, our families, and our friendship. I truly havemissed my friend and the things that were once shared between us. I don’t everwant to go back to a time when she isn’t in my life.

Forgiveness, whether you are giving it or seeking it is anamazing gift. It allows us to begin to heal and let’s love fill our heart inplaces we didn’t know existed. I am grateful to God to have found forgiveness,but I have also gained understanding. Understanding that sometimes we can hurtsomeone and not realize what we have done. And sometimes we are hurt and when they ask forgiveness, we speak the words but not truly accept it. So it’s examining all the thingsthat we do each and every day. So that if we need forgiveness we can not onlyask it from him, but from the person we have hurt. And in some cases it is alsoabout giving forgiveness even when it has been asked or not. That way our heartremains healthy and happy.

30 Attributes 21-23

2012-01-22T10:46:00.001-05:00

He is my HEALER:
Mal 4:2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of he stall.

He is my SHIELD:
Ps 33:20 Our soul waiteth for the Lord: he is our help and our shield.

He is my WISDOM:
1 Cor 1:24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.

Blessings Blog Hop Sunday

2012-01-22T00:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to our Blog Hop which will happen every Sunday! Everyone is invited to participate ! If you have a blog leave your link below.

Rules:
1. You must be a follower or follow us to participate. We will visit/follow your blog also :)
2. Please visit at least 3 blogs on the list. Follow them, leave a comment, stumble them, plus them, click an ad, anything, just do something for them!

Also we would love for you to promote this blog hop on your blog, facebook, or any social means you want! Feel free to grab the image above if you would like.

You can link your blog below!

TTFN!

Love Day Event

2012-01-21T19:33:00.004-05:00

So in honor of the Love Day Event and the invites getting ready to go out we have decided that we are gonna get you all geared up and ready to go with a Referral Contest!

Here how it works:

First invite your friends to join us by

Step 1: Like Us Here
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Thoughts-of-a-Mother-Wife-Daughter/211495205602748
Step 2: Friend us on Facebook so we can send you an invite
https://www.facebook.com/thougthsofamotherwifeanddaughter
Step 3: Now your friends will need to leave a comment here with who referred you:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=225282794223989&set=a.225282790890656.56734.211495205602748&type=1&theater

For those of you that are already our friends on facebook, you will also need to go to step 3 and just leave me a small comment to let me know you would like an invite to this event.

We hope that you will join us! Good Luck!

Bound by Books Hop 1/21

2012-01-20T21:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Bound by Books Hop hosted by Ever After PR! Our Guest Co-Hosts are CelticLady's Reviews, Thoughts of a Mother, Wife, & Daughter, Gina's Library, Crystal Trent Dotson Reviews, Stressed Rach, and Book Crazy Reviews.Featured Author is Edward H. Carpenter at Read, Write, Listen and Facebook.
Are you a book reviewer looking to network with other book reviewers and authors? Are you an author looking for book reviewers? Bound by Books Hop is for you! Bound by Books Hop is open to all blogs!Below, you will find three linkys: The first linky is for your blogs.The second linky is for your Facebook fan pages.The third linky is for giveaways! When you link up your giveaways, we will randomly tweet your giveaways!Book reviewers ~ check out this new group to share your book reviews and giveaways! Authors are welcomed too!

***We do not have a button for this hop. If anyone wants to create one for us, we would appreciate it!

Owner/FounderEver After PROwnerBeauty Brite

My History. My Story. My Future

2012-01-20T09:25:00.001-05:00

Since you know my name is Sofia I guess you must be wondering where I came from. My family on my mother’s side can be traced back to the Native Americans that were first here. There is no better dinner conversation than talking about when one of our ancestors scalped an unsuspecting wagon train full of white settlers. My Dads side is even more interesting. Part German and part hillbilly. My Grandfather was German and his family migrated here. They separated and some went to Virginia. My grandmother was southern bred in Virginia where her family had lived for a very long time. They met and fell in love. They produced my father whom I sometimes affectionately refer to as the German Hillbilly. When people ask about my past I say “Blech “ because that is not who I am. Don’t get me wrong I love knowing where I came from but sometimes I really feel we spend too much time worrying about where we have been instead of focusing on where we are going.

When a child is born we do not speak of his past. We may mention he looks like so and so on someone’s side of the family but all in all we talk about his future. What will he be? Where will he go? What mark will he leave on the world? As we grow older we begin to make what is called memories and then we pine for them. It is human nature to look at the past more but when we do that we mar the future because we want a certain time or place. Your past is a part of you but it does not define you. Your future is precious and you can change it to what you want it to be. The future is an endless possibility of adventures and happenings. When we focus so much on the past we trudge along toward a future that may seem bleak. You cannot go back no matter how bad you want and no matter what has happened you can change your life. You can change where you are going. No matter what you have done in the past the future is a clean slate that only you can draw, color, or write. Life is too short to always be looking back.

As we get older our bodies cocoon our memories and in time we sift out the bad stuff. While that is good for healing it is also bad for moving forward. Remembering only the good numbs us and makes us think things were better than they were. Therefore when we get upset or see our future as dismal we want to go back to the synthetic past we have created. I am not saying everything about that time has been cushioned but if we are honest with ourselves we will notice that a lot of things we do not see as they truly were. That is what helps us heal from hurt, heartbreak, trauma, or even bad feelings. It is okay to do that and you should do that but it is not okay when the past ruins your future. It is hard to break that cycle, I know because I have been there. You can though, you really can. Look at your future the way you would a newborns. What will you do? Who will you be? What mark will you leave from here on out? Color, write or draw the future you want. Don’t let someone say you are too old, too poor, or anything like that. You are who you want to be. You are your history, your present, and your future. Own it like a boss (learned that from Bobbie, ha-ha) and fly. Then one day you can say “This is my history. This is my story. This is my future.”

My past is a part of me and I am sure I will talk about time to time but it does not define me. It makes me stronger and it made me learn. Where you are going is not defined by where you have been. It is defined by the amount of drive you have to take you where you want to go. I want you to do something for me. It's just a little something. I want you to take a piece of paper and I want you to write one goal for the future. It can be something as small as "Clean the basement" or something huge like " Buy a Car." I want you to put that goal somewhere only you know where it is. When you start looking to the past and getting a little sad I want you to pull it out and remind yourself that this is where you are going. If you go backwards you wont ever meet this goal. When you do meet that goal do it all over again. The point is keep moving forward. Every time you move forward you add a little more history to your story and then someday when you are close to your final curtain call you can look at the whole picture, smile and say " That was my history. That was my story. Damn, it was an awesome ride."

I-Pod Winner

2012-01-20T07:44:00.001-05:00

Sorry it took so long. Things have been busy. The winner is:

AshlyM

Please e-mail us with your shipping info at cissy.bobbie@yahoo.com. congrats.

Finding Hope in the Midst of Chaos

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

DearDiary,

Ihave spent the last few days trying to settle my mind, heart, and spirit. Iknow now that since I have rededicated myself to God and this path he has putme on, the devil is going to launch a full fledge attack to try and keep meclose and in the same place I have always been. Faith I know is the answer. Imust remind myself to stay as faithful as I can. When the devil comes knockingI am going to have to let my faith answer the door.

Thedaily struggle of trying to find myself though has exhausted me. So on Saturdaynight I figured I would take the day off. You see I work 6 ½ days a week and Iusually try to take Sunday and catch up on housework that has been neglected.The kids go to church on Sunday mornings and usually do not return home untilafter the last service. I thought thiswould be a prime opportunity to just take Sunday and make it my day.

Iwas going to do whatever it is I wanted to do read a book, crochet, or maybejust veg in front of the T.V. for hours. I wasn’t even going to get dressed, ifI didn’t want to.

Sundaymorning comes and I wake the children promptly at 8:30 a.m. so that they canbegin getting ready to go. I was so excited to just be having some me time.That was until their ride called and said she was not going to be able to pickthem up because she was extremely sick. Oh NO! there goes my day off. By10:00 a.m. I had already refereed three fights (one in which I ended uphollering at my youngest and sending her to her room), tripped and fell overshoes that were left in the floor after it was decided they weren’t going tochurch, and chased the dog out of my toilet bowl more times that I could countbecause someone left the bathroom door open. Things began to calm a bit when my hubby and our second daughter wentout for a bit around 1:00 p.m. . The other two seem to disperse and hide frommy now extremely fowl mood.

AsI lay flipping through the channels, thinking Yeah!now finally some alone time,a close friend of mine decides to stop by with her 5 year old twins in tow. Nowusually she will call before coming so that way I have time to prepare thehouse and my own sanity for their arrival. Everyone knows how busy one 5 year old can be, but two are an adventure.

Bythe time she was ready to leave 2 hours later one of them had gotten a hold ofa can of air freshener and may or may not have sprayed it into the othersmouth, spilled Kool-Aid on the coffee table and then proceeded to play in it,smacked each other with the remote repeatedly and when I went to correct themfor smacking one of them not sure which gives me the finger, and they threw dogfood all over the kitchen just to watch the dog chase after it.

Once gone and after cleaning up the mess I did manage totake a nice hot bath and get some chicken noodle soup on for dinner. Needless to say though by 4:00 p.m. when thehubby returned the chaos with our own children began again. Most of the evening was spent listening to themargue, laugh and giggle very loudly over a movie I was trying hard to watch,and then complain about how boring said movie was. I finally lost all myself-control and told all of them I didn’t want to hear another peep out ofthem until the movie was over. Fortunately, for me I didn’t hear anymore the rest of the night becauseby 10:30 they had all fallen asleep on the couch. But as I watched each of them sleep I wasgrateful and thankful to the Lord above for each of them. I could not imaginenot having each one of them in my life, each day. My life wouldn’t be the samewithout the chaos they bring to it.

Sowith working on my list I have found that one of the things that bring me thegreatest joy in my life is my girls. For me now it will be about learning toenjoy them through my heart and soul, the way God intended me to enjoy them

Waiting on God

2012-01-19T06:32:00.000-05:00

For those of you that question your faith daily, like me, this is the perfect e-book to help you better understand why God has you where he has you and what he is doing while you are there.

In all honesty, I can tell you this book made me cry as it spoke to may heart and soul. It help me to aleviate some of the pain from what I believe is God's absence in my life.

This book also contains chapter 1 from "Be Still Let Jesus Calm Your Storms" and chapter 1 "Beginning at The End ( Finding God When Your World Falls Apart).

Also you can find this author and some of her other books over at www.ScriptureNow.com

Go over and get this free e-book @ amazon.com

My History. My Story

2012-01-18T10:54:00.000-05:00

I’m not really all for introducing yourself. Really, what do you learn from someone when you are introduced to them? Their name, maybe their occupation or maybe even their phone number if they are to be a business associate. One of life’s little casualities is not really getting to know a person when you are introduced to them. That information rarely tells you their character, their morals, or even their beliefs. You are introduced to this complete stranger that you may be including in your life and you are going on faith alone. Honestly I believe when you are introduced to someone that they should have to give you some sort of background info so you know exactly who you are allowing into your life. The same goes for this blog. You are reading this post so in some way you are allowing me into your life. What type of person am I? Will you like me? Will you hate me? Will I break your heart? Will I make you happy or will I make you sad? What will me being in your life, even for a short period, do? I don’t know and neither do you. It is a leap of faith we will be taking together.

My name is Sofia and I have no idea what I am doing here. It is true unfortunately. I was asked to be here by my good friend Bobbie. She wanted me to talk to you guys, to share some of my stories. Why do you care about my stories? I asked her this and her response was “ Who cares if they don’t? You need to tell them because it is your spot in history. Make it known Sofia.” Sometimes she can be very profound, except when she is blowing smoke up your rear. So I guess I am here to tell you my stories or to talk to you about anything I feel like. I am not sure that is a good idea because sometimes the way I feel tends to offend many, many people.

Like take the SOPA business. Bobbie pulling her hair out right now and freaking because she has put a lot of work into lobbying for this bill. So I tell her “ I have been around long enough to tell you this. People will jump on the bandwagon because they are told it is the right thing. They get part of the story or they get the part someone wants them to know and jump to the conclusion. People latch onto the part that is the worst and don’t look at the positive. Then they jump on for the ride. It means nothing and just like all the protests I have seen in my life, it doesn’t change much. It just propels things forward and then later down the road something happens that makes them say “ Wow, maybe I should have thought that through more.” Privacy and Liberty mean a lot until you are the one being slapped in the face with them. Then the tune changes.” I wonder how many I just offended with that statement. Oh well everyone is entitled to how they feel and it calmed her down. That was all that mattered to me.

How long have I been around? Not as long as you may think even though sometimes it feels like a hundred years but not quite. Enough to form opinions and not care whether people like them or not. I have been around long enough to tell you exactly what I think of you and not care of you don’t like it. Around long enough to know that life is too short to keep a grudge, to have loved, to have lost, to have wandered, to have stayed close to home, to know my mother was right about everything and to know that last piece of chocolate cake should be eaten. Long enough to know that if you want it all you can have it. You just need the drive to do it and stamp out that little voice that says you can’t. I know you can because I have done it.

I am writing this right now curled up in my room at the St.Regis Hotel in Florence, Italy. As I look around the room and admire the beauty I can’t help but smile. How did I end up here you may ask? Guess you will have stick around to find out. This is history. This is my story.

30 Attributes of the Lord 18-20

2012-01-18T09:02:00.000-05:00

He is my COUNSELOR
PS 16:7 I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.

He is my PEACE
EP 2:14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us.

He is my REWARDER
HEB 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him; for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Grab Our Badge Sunday

2012-01-15T11:59:00.001-05:00

Grab our badge and place it on your blog, and we will grab yours .

Just make sure to leave us a comment to let us know.

Thanks

The Coupon Tree

2012-01-15T11:22:00.001-05:00

The Coupon Tree

Everybody loves to save money and one of the best ways to do this is to use coupons.

How many of you have unused coupons left over from your cirrculars? So

TOAMW&D are hosting what we are calling a Coupon Tree. Now we need you to understand first and foremost that you will have to supply your mailing address to be apart of this.

So here is how it works, so please make sure to read carefully.

1. First you would cut out all of the coupons from your cirrculars (taking out the ones that you want, of course) or print them from your favorite site.

2. Next you want to add your name to the linky below. Also leave a comment with just your name and email address. Now once you do that you will need to check back to see if someone has added another name under yours. If they have, this will now be your coupon buddy.

If there is no name under yours by Fri of that week, you will want to email us here at TOAMW&D for our mailing address so that you can send them to us.

3.You will need to contact your coupon buddy via email and send them your packet of unwanted coupons.

4. Once you receive your coupon packet from your coupon buddy you will want to take out the coupons that you want. Then place the coupons you dont want back into the packet and add the following weeks unwanted coupons, so that you can send all of these to your coupon buddy.

Please do not remove any expired coupons. We will remove them from the packets that we receive so that we can donate them.

Blessings Blog Hop Sunday

2012-01-15T11:20:00.002-05:00

Welcome to our Blog Hop which will happen every Sunday! Everyone is invited to participate ! If you have a blog leave your link below.

Finding Hope in the Midst of Chaos

2012-01-14T19:00:00.000-05:00

Dear Diary,

So here I am trying hard not to digress, but it has been oneof those days. It seems for every one thing I got right, I got a million morewrong. I pray for faith and yet I cannot seem to totally grasp it in my hands,my heart, or even my head. I seem to bein constant prayer all day long and yet still have no feelings of peace or anymore strength than when I began. I tryto make myself realize that it has only been a couple of days since I have setthis new life in motion. Some days will be better than others I suppose. Yet Ihave had an epiphany. Here it is…

Ignorance is NOT Bliss

Sometimes hiding yourself in the dark is not always theanswer. It is easy to run and hide from what I feel each day. It is also veryeasy to put on a false smile and pretend that everything is okay. But I cantell you that will only get me so far and does not cure the problems orfeelings that I have. I must take the time to address what I am feeling and whyI feel it. Will I always understand myself?No! Some of the things I feel cannot always be explained in the simplest ofterms. Yet all these emotions make upwho I am, what kind of day I will have, and even in some cases who I mightbecome.

In having to evaluate my own thoughts and feelings, Irealize I am 95% of the time absolutely confused about myself. And with theconfusion has come depression. Even asconfused as I have become I try to find the source of my inner conflict. Yet in searching for this source I do find asmall bit of enlightenment. It’s that enlightenment that brings me peace andwill carry me through. I also know that someday I WILL have gained enoughenlightenment about myself that I will be able to apply it to my dailylife. That way I am only 5% confused andconflicted and 95% happy.

So ignorance to myself is NOT bliss. Knowing whom I am, howI feel, and what I want to become is.

Thoughts Awry happenings

2012-01-14T17:25:00.001-05:00

Crocheting is one of my many passions. That is why I have decided to start by sharing some of the basic steps over on the sister blog Thoughts Awry. So head over to: http://thoughtsawry.blogspot.com/.
Hope you enjoy! and Please do not forget to join us over on that page to.

Love Day Event

2012-01-12T19:49:00.002-05:00

So this past Saturday January 7, 2012 we held our first event. It was absolutely enjoyable to be able to interact with some of you. It was so enjoyable we are planning another event scheduled for February 11, 2012. There will be more great flash giveaways and games to play. All you have to do to get an invite is:

Step 1: Like Us Here
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Thoughts-of-a-Mother-Wife-Daughter/211495205602748
Step 2: Friend us on Facebook so we can send you an invite
https://www.facebook.com/thougthsofamotherwifeanddaughter

Thoughts Awry

2012-01-12T19:48:00.001-05:00

As you all will see we have now added the sister blog Thoughts Awry! We hope that you will go over and check it out. The first recipe has already been posted for all to see!

Finding Hope in the Midst of Chaos

2012-01-10T22:30:00.000-05:00

When you are on your kneesyou cannot stumble.

Richardson & Atkinson

Dear Diary,

So I have read over all the things I wrote in my last entry,many times. I have decided to try and start making a list of things that Imight find to try and make myself happy, not only inwardly but also outwardly.So this is where I feel I need to start first….

I need to release some of this anger and frustration I feelwith God. So I have started with gettingon my knees each morning after getting out of the bed and each night before Igo to bed. Sometimes I pray out loud and others I am just quiet letting Godlisten to my heart alone and hoping I will hear his in return. My knees are where this battle must be foughtand so on my knees are where I will be. I am just trying to surrender all to Him and leave it with Him. This isI know will be an on going journey.

Love is the condition in which the happiness of anotherperson is essential to your own.

Richardson & Atkinson

Another thing, is taking the time to enjoy my children andto have fun with them. Before to long they will be off on their own life’sjourney and I won’t be able to get these things back. Now in saying this,having fun with children can often be difficult. Your idea of fun and theirsare two different things. And of course,each one of them has their own ideas of what fun is to them. So after muchthought and some coercion we all agreed to try a little baking, just us girls.

I must say I am usually a from the box kind of gal. So whatin the world possessed me to try from scratch, I will never know. But the girls and I set out to bake ourcake. The sifting of the flour was verymessy, because they got it everywhere. Digging out the eggs shells, that myyoungest was cracking, was a feat all in itself. Mixing the cake was the bestas it was slung all over my oldest daughter as her and my middle daughter weretalking. Finally, though we were ready to bake. We watch in anticipation as it rises and became this beautifulmasterpiece. Once done we take it out to cool, only to watch our beautifulmasterpiece deflate into a big flat blob. I can only assume that between the flour, picking out the eggshells, andslinging of cake mix a key ingredient was somehow missed.

After dinner though, my husband being the man that he is,agrees to try a nice healthy slice of our blob. It wasn’t until after the second piece he leans over to me and says, “Isit supposed to be crunchy.” Well so muchfor me thinking I got all of those eggshells out.

I can say that with the mess we made and a flat cake; Itruly enjoyed the time with the girls. There were no fights to have to refereeor the competition that always exists in a house full of females. Only thesound of their giggles and the look of excitement in their eyes as they feltthey had truly accomplished something. Thefact that the cake didn’t turn out doesn’t matter; it was just about being withthem. With that said the next time it is Pillsbury Cookies for our next bakingadventure.

Still Changing

2012-01-10T15:29:00.000-05:00

So we have had some pretty amazing changes happening here at TOAMW&D. With the new layout, our first event, the introduction on a new series, grab a badge, and the coupon tree the year has started off good creatively.
Just so you know though we are not done yet. There will be at least two more exciting new things to appear to you SOON and a bunch of new things that will show up throughout the year. We hope that all of you enjoy the changes that we have made and will continue to stay tuned for more to come.

Grab Our Badge and We'll Grab Yours!

2012-01-08T10:00:00.000-05:00

Grab our badge and place it on your blog, and we will grab yours .

Just make sure to leave us a comment to let us know.

Thanks

2012-01-08T09:24:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our Blog Hop which will happen every Sunday! Everyone is invited to participate ! If you have a blog leave your link below.

Finding Hope In The Midst Of Chaos

2012-01-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

As you shut the door to your past, walk into newness of life.

Kathleen Richardson & Varsi Atkinson

Dear Diary,

Well the kids and the husband gave me you for Christmas. Atfirst I wasn’t sure what for, but suddenly I have become compelled towrite. I have never kept a journalbefore, but here goes…

As midnight approached on January 1^st 2012, andeverybody sleeping in the house, I sat going over all the events of 2011. I began to wonder as an individual where wasI headed and what did I want out of my life.

I began to realize that I have spent most of my lifeworking, being a wife, and being a mother that I have forgotten who I am. I havegiven up on all of my hopes and dreams that I once had. Yet in realizing this Ialso realized something extremely bad about myself. I have not only given up myhopes and dreams, but have been killing the dreams and hopes of my children andhusband. When did I become such a bitter person? When did I become so cynicalthat I do not believe that anything can be accomplished? Why would I do thisnot only to myself, but others? There isn’t and hasn’t been any true and purejoy in my life for a very long time. Mysmile is no longer genuine, it’s now faked and forced. No laughter escapes mylips and I worry about so much that I become depressed. This is what my familydeals with on a daily basis.

I have also realized that with losing my joy, my faith inGod has wavered to the point that I have almost quit believing in him alltogether. There is no rejoicing in hisglory or finding happiness in the things that he blesses me with each day. I only feel emptiness paired with uneasiness. My soul always seems to be in constanttorment and it is a never ending battle. I even have a hard time praying andoften neglect to pray because of all my doubts. Oh, Lord what have I done to myself and the people that I love. I have become the kind of person that talksabout God’s faith and love, but doesn’t really live it.

So I have decided for 2012 I am now on a mission to findmyself. I will find the joy in my life and spread that joy to those in it. I am going to find what makes me happy. I will laugh until I cry and love until ithurts. Maybe I will find answers, maybe I won’t but I believe that if I canfind peace in my soul and happiness in my heart then it will be well worth itfor me and my loved ones.. I know thatit will not be easy all the time. I figure though if I can write everything Isee, feel, taste, & touch, when times get hard I will be able to go back,read, and remember whatever joy I have found in each experience to get methrough the tough days.

So here is to 2012 and all the things it will bring with it!

The Coupon Tree

2012-01-08T00:00:00.003-05:00

The Coupon Tree

Everybody loves to save money and one of the best ways to do this is to use coupons.

How many of you have unused coupons left over from your cirrculars? So

TOAMW&D and our co-host The More The Merrier are hosting what we are calling a Coupon Tree. Now we need you to understand first and foremost that you will have to supply your mailing address to be apart of this.

So here is how it works, so please make sure to read carefully.

Hi and Nice to Meet You!

2012-01-07T19:30:00.000-05:00

A few months ago when my friends approached me with the idea to write a series about their collaborative life experiences, I must admit that at first I was very apprehensive. I love to write, but I usually only write for myself. I have tons of notebooks to prove it. After much consideration and lots of negotiations, I finally let my guard down and decided that this might be as good for me as I hope it will be for them.

So first let me say Hi my name is Telsa Michaels. I am a wife and mother to 2 kids, a boy 14 and a girl 10.

I have been writing since I can first remember. It is my passion. I write about anything and everything. I write anything from short stories to poems. I am not discriminate, it just depends on how I feel that day.

I hope that you will like what I have put together. The girls and I have worked very hard on making this a wonderful series of some fact and some fiction. This is the story of a woman's life and her journey to find what makes her truly happy, what she believes, and who she really is. We hope that you will take this trip with us, laugh when she laughs and cry when she cries.

Re-launch Party

2012-01-04T19:30:00.003-05:00

In honor of us re-launching the 2012 look , the coupon tree that will be up on Sunday, and a new addition to our family, we have decided that this is a perfect opportunity to have a party here on our blog and our facebook page. And we would love for all of you to attend.

So on Saturday January 7, 2012 we will be having a party from 4:30pm-7:30pm est.There will be lots of games and giveaways. I am so excited. So want to know how to be invited! Well all you have to do is like our facebook page and then friend us on facebook, so that we can send you your special invite.
Step 1: Like Us Here
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Thoughts-of-a-Mother-Wife-Daughter/211495205602748
Step 2: Friend us on Facebook so we can send you an invite
https://www.facebook.com/thougthsofamotherwifeanddaughter
Step 3: Check your notifications and answer your RSVP so we know you are coming! If I get 50 participants I will throw in a grand prize of 10.00 worth of tubes from SNC :)
Hope to see you all there!

Introducing A New Addition To The Family

2012-01-04T19:00:00.000-05:00

Here at TOAMW&D we are excited that after many months of negotiations, we have added a new edition to our family here at the blog, Telsa Michaels.
Telsa is a longtime friend of ours who loves to write about anything and everything. So in making changes and trying to come up with new ideas, a couple of months ago we went to her with an idea about writing a series based on collaborative accounts of our own lives with some special twists and turns. She has finally agreed and will be writing our new series titled " Finding Hope in the Midst of Chaos".
So we hope you will help us give her a warm welcome and come back to read this wonderful series that she has put together for you.

New Changes

2012-01-04T15:00:00.000-05:00

I just love the word New lately. It has become one of my favorite words. So just a few changes that we would like for you to know.

We love our name very much here, but it is an awful long name to write. So one of the new changes as you will notice on our button is that when refering to ourselves we will now just shorten it to the initials.

You will also notice that we have now removed our Christmas layout. We here at TOAMW&D have decided it is time for us to go back to our roots. So going back to the beginning helps us to remember why we started, why we continue, what we want, and where we are going with this blog. This was something we were compelled to do and we have decided that it is absolutely important to remain true to ourselves. So we hope that you enjoy our new look.

One final small note for anyone that entered the I Pod contest when it first began. The facebook page has now changed. We hope that you will take a moment to go to the new facebook link and like our new page. If you don't, I want you to know that it will NOT void your entry, but we do really hope that you will.

Thanks

In Trying Times Do Not Quit Trying

2012-01-01T19:00:00.000-05:00

How many times have you said to yourself this week alone that "I Quit!" or "I Give Up!"? How many times have you just cried out unto the Lord I will no longer pray or I no longer believe you are as all powerful as they have told me?
I can tell you I say each of these things daily. Each day that passes and the Lord doesn't or won't answer my prayers, my heart breaks a little more. Yet, I have also begun to realize that in the trying times we MUST pray and try a little harder. Giving into the discouragement and disappointment only means another victory for the enemy. If we quit praying or quit believing then the job the enemy has set out to do he has accomplished.
As trying as things are in our life we MUST always remember that the Lord is with us. I was reminded just recently that I need to remember to Thank the Lord everyday for what I do have, and to also Thank the Lord for he will at some point make a way for me. This of course as I have said many times is often easier said then done. I often must tell my head to shut up and just listen to my heart. If my head had its way I would have quit believing a long time ago, but it's my heart that keeps me hanging on. It's my heart that won't let me quit praying, crying, begging, and yes even sometimes screaming to God to finally intervene on my behalf. And even though at this very moment in time I am battling, I will not always be. I WILL remind myself "Victory is mine saith the Lord." And TODAY is MY day.

New Year Means New Giveaways

2012-01-01T15:06:00.000-05:00

Well a new year means new giveaways for the blogger world. So in all my networking today I found some that you might want to check out, but you better hurry because these will be ending tonight at midnight.

Check out this blog to see the beautiful Charm Factory bracelets.http://tryingnewproducts.blogspot.com/2011/12/charm-factory-review-and-giveaway.html

Here is another giveaway for a $50 Visa Gift Card.
http://www.akblessingsabound.com/2011/12/giveaway-ch-1001-cookie-starter-mix-facebook-contest-50-visa-gift-card-ch1001.html

This is a good one to check this one out for a KitchenAid Mixer.
http://www.mommieswithstyle.com/holiday-entertaining-on-any-budget-with-sams-club-a-kitchen-aid-mixer-giveaway/comment-page-11/#comment-58203

Enjoy and Good Luck!

What would you say?

2012-01-01T14:42:00.000-05:00

I am sure a lot of you have heard of the new “craze” amongst young people doing flash cards to get out their feelings. The first popular on was Jonah’s Mowry’s one on his feelings about bullying. Get you some tissues ready and if you have kids you may want to hug them afterwards.

I did cry watching that one and I don’t think I have ever felt so much compassion for another human being. I didn’t think any of them could top that one and I have watched a lot. Some made me laugh, some made me cry and some made me think. However, none hit me as hard as this the one Ben Breedlove made. For those of you that haven’t heard of Ben Breedlove let me share an amazing story of a young man that died Christmas Day of a heart defect:
+
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2079098/Ben-Breedlove-YouTube-Video-Teenager-shares-near-death-experiences-dies.html

Pretty amazing uh? The emotions I felt during all of this ranged from sadness to being mad at God for allowing this boy to pass away a few weeks ago, have him brought back and only to allow him to die on Christmas day. What a horrible thing for his parents. Why? Then as usual God smacked me upside the head with a thought. If he hadn’t died that way would his story be as powerful? If you look for him on the internet and read the comments on his story you will see this young man has given others strength to keep living and ones that are terminally ill peace with their own imminent deaths. Pretty powerful for such a strong and brave young man.

That brought me to this post. I was thinking about all of these flash card videos and got to thinking if I made one what would I say? What would I talk about? What could I say that would help someone else? Today is a new year and a new beginning for all of us. So my question to you is “When you look back on your years on this earth and think about all you have been through...what would you say?”

TTFN,
Bobbie

Blessings Blog Hop Sunday

2012-01-01T11:04:00.002-05:00

Welcome to our Blog Hop which will happen every Sunday! Everyone is invited to participate ! If you have a blog leave your link below.

New Year New Thoughts

2012-01-01T11:02:00.002-05:00

Well now that the New Year has begun, we here at TOAMWD have decided that again more changes are needed . So over the course of the next couple of weeks, we will be making some of those much needed changes. We hope that you will patiently bear with us as yet again we go through another growth spurt.

Sky Singing Butterfly Fly Away

2011-12-29T12:33:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone!
We wanted to share this video of Sky singing Butterfly Fly Away by Miley Cyrus. I just love listening to my niecey niece sing. If you enjoy it to please share it !!! I would love to see a lot of shares to show this young lady she has talent!!

TTFN,
Bobbie

My Journey Entry # 5 -- Personal Post

2011-12-29T10:08:00.001-05:00

This is one of those personal posts that you just need to write. I had someone say this week that my writing was in your face. Well, I am a in your face kind of person. I try not to be but I am and it’s just me. So I am asking to please forgive me if I am to “in your face” or “harsh” I don’t think I will be since this is about me, rofl.

I am frustrated. I am talking just put me out of my misery frustrated. It is so hard to look back on 37 years of life and say “What the hell have I ever done that was worth anything other than bringing two wonderful children into the world?” Before everyone starts with the “You should be proud of that or that is an amazing thing” I am proud of it. However, I want to be proud of me and my life. Not just the fact I was able to raise my kids. It has gotten worse in the past couple of weeks as I wander around trying to figure out where my place is. I used to think I knew, but sometimes things happen in life that makes everything so complicated. You make decisions based on what you have to work with at the time but sometimes six months later you can be left with “did I make the right one?” Sometimes I really just don’t know.

Yesterday was a bad day. Everything seemed to weigh on me yesterday. I made two huge boo-boo’s before 8 AM and by then I was like “Fuck it” Then I had to spend most of my evening discussing a situation that just made me want to pull my hair out. I just couldn’t sleep last night so my mom, bless her heart, said “Let’s go make some hot cider and have us a talk.” So for the next hour I poured everything out. All that I had been feeling about situations, people, etc. It is so funny how you can talk and talk and then your mom can sum it all up in a matter of minutes. After saying all that she said “You know you had dreams once. Big ones and while you may be too old to chase some of them yes, you are not too old to abandon all. Everything has a season Bobbie and sometimes you need to figure out if your season is up. Maybe your frustration and aggravation is a signal that your season is done and it is time for it to change. You need to quit beating yourself up for mistakes you made. It isn’t worth it anymore.”

She’s right. Of course she is, Moms always are. I had dreams and some of them were those wild kid ones. You know, become famous, etc. Another dream I have always had was to write. I love to write even though my grammar and English sucks. Not like novels or anything but short stories, etc. One thing a lot of people don’t know is I have a complete other life on the Internet and I am a huge Role Player. I am a writer on the story lines. I help develop them for our community. I absolutely love it because I have always had a huge imagination and also because there I am needed and wanted. I was away from there for a while when I was sick. 3 months to be exact and they hadn’t heard from me at all. I finally e-mailed the owner and told them what had happened. You would have thought a queen returned rofl. They were so happy to see me and for once no one was mad, they all understood. Another dream I have always had is to develop web sites, etc. I do that occasionally but I want to do it full time. There are so many people out there that do it so I need an edge, but I will find one.

I love my online life but sometimes I think I need to be where I am most needed and wanted. I need to quit trying to fit in somewhere I obviously do not. Another great group is the PSP community. I love being a part of that. I think what I need is change. Find out where my direction is. Find out where god wants me to be. I am not a huge Christian like my partner but I believe in God and I believe that even though I made huge mistakes he still has a purpose for me, somewhere. I just need to find it and trust he will show me. So 2012 will be a year of change for me. Maybe if I find something I really feel I need to do I will be more diligent toward it. It is time to start finding my dreams and finding myself. It is time to, well, change.

I leave you with this song by Martina McBride. It is an old one but a powerful one.

TTFN,
Bobbie

Wuggle Pets Review

2011-12-28T22:02:00.000-05:00

For ages 4 and up

My daughter got these for Christmas and went absolutely crazy over the fact that she could now make her own stuff animals. Each set includes:

Cuddly Puppy And Magical Unicorn Pets With Clip Attached
1 Fun Filled Factory
2 Bags of Fluffy Stuffing
12 Personality Charms Pet Pet
2 Bags of Magic Dust
2 Birth Certificates
1 Zipper-Up Tool

All your child has to do is fill the fun factory with the stuffing, add some magic dust, and then attach the pet to the other end of the factory. They then turn the roller and the pet is filled with the stuffing and magic dust. It's that easy.

There are a total of 8 of these wonderful Wuggle Pets and you can collect them all. You can purchase either the starter pack that comes with the just the Cuddly Puppy and the Magical Unicorn for $19.99 and then the other 6 are sold separately at $7.99 a piece or you can purchase the party pack which contains all of them for $49.99. They also have the option for you to purchase voice boxes for each Wuggle Pet at $7.99 a piece, so that way your child can give each one it's own 10 sec personalized message.

Go on over to:https://www.wugglepets.com to check these cute pets out.

They are also available at: Amazon.com and Walmart stores.

Lemonhead Free Instant Prizes

2011-12-28T19:00:00.001-05:00

Do You Have What It Takes To Be A Lemonhead Superfan?

Brickfish

Just hit the play button

A Christmas Miracle by Willow Cross

2011-12-27T21:39:00.000-05:00

This is a short story about one woman's struggle to get by as a single mom raising four kids. It is also about the amazing kindness of strangers at Christmas time.
Willow Cross keeps this story true to what the holiday spirit is really all about. People who truly need others to help and people who are willing to help. The only downfall about this book was that it was to short, but it is a fabulous read.
Go and check out this free ebook at www.smashwords.com

Win a blog makeover :)

2011-12-27T16:30:00.001-05:00

I am offering the chance to win a blog make over by me. This is good for one blog, one design. For those of you that don't know I designed this blog but I also do more simple professional ones too. Please read all the rules carefully.
1. You must be a follower of this blog-- Mandatory-- We have several ways to follow us on the side bar.
2. You must fill out the google doc completely-- Mandatory
3. If you have a blogger blog you must be willing to make me an administrator so I can change the blog layout. Word Press bloggers will receive the files so you upload it. Also, you must have a pay word press blog.
4. Design and colors are my choice but you will be able to give input. I will only do one design and one design only.
5. I will use graphics but only ones that are copyright compliant. So please don't snag an image off the web and expect me to use it if you win.
6. This contest is open to all bloggers.
7. This is only for word press or bloggers. Sorry no tumblr's etc.

This contest will run from December 27th till January 27th 2012.
Loading...

TTFN,
Bobbie

Blogger of the Month Award - Nominate a Blog

2011-12-27T16:30:00.000-05:00

We here at Thoughts of a Mother, Wife, and Daughter have decided to give away two awards This is the first one and here is how it works.

Please Read All Instructions Carefully! This One Is In Two Parts.

Part One

Nominate A Blog

1. You are allowed to nominate your blog or someone else's

2. Leave a comment under THIS post that MUST contain your name, your email address, and the blog URL that you are nominating. PLEASE be sure to let us know if it's yours or someone else's blog also.

3. Copy and paste this post to your blog so that your followers can come over here and help you out by nominating you . They do NOT need to be a follower to Thoughts of a Mother, Wife, and Daughter. They will also need to leave a comment containing their name and the blog they are nominating under THIS post.

Extra Bonus - If any of your followers that vote for you become a new follower to us you get an extra vote, courtesy of us. PLEASE make sure they add new follower to TOMWD in there comment section or the vote can't be added.

Note: Any New Followers with blogs that join us if you are not nominating yourself, PLEASE make sure to include your URL under the blog that you are nominating. This way we can come over and follow you. We do Follow Back.

This will run from Dec 27th @5:00 pm est until Jan 3 @ 5:00pm est.

Part Two

Top Ten Finalists

On Jan 3rd the top ten finalists will be posted and the voting process will start all over again. This portion will run from Jan 4 th@ 5:00pm EST until Jan 8th @ 5:00pm EST. The winner will be announced on Jan 9th.

The winner will receive an exclusive award designed by Rebelle Doll Designs that they can proudly display on their blog. In the month of January they will be allowed one guest post. And for the third week of January they will get to co-host with us on our Blog Hop (which will be coming soon, so keep watching for it.)

So let's begin and GOOD LUCK !

30 Attributes of the Lord Days14- 17

2011-12-27T15:00:00.000-05:00

He is my REFUGE FROM THE STORM:
Is 25:4 For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.

He is my EVERLASTING FATHER:
Is 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.

He is the AUTHOR OF MY FAITH:
Heb 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

He is my DELIVERER:
Ps 70:5 But I am poor and needy: make haste unto me, O God; thou art my help and my deliverer; O Lord, make no tarrying.

Win A 8 GB I-pod Touch!

2011-12-27T10:54:00.002-05:00

Win A 8 GB I-Pod Touch!!!!

This is a co-sponsored give-away and please follow all instructions so your entry will count.

I got a 64 GB I-pod for Christmas so I am giving away my barely used 8 GB I-pod Touch. When I say barely used I mean it, rofl. I think I used it a total of 15 times. It is in mint condition and ready for set up right out of the case. All my settings, etc is gone so it will be completely yours! Comes with the case shown, charger, and headphones.

How to win:

Do the stuff in Rafflecaptor below!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Your entry will not count if you do not do the above things. Please make sure to only leave a SINGLE comment letting us know you did everything. If you un-follow, un-like, etc right after the contest you will be in-eligible to to win any other prizes from us.

Contest runs today December 27th through January 14, 2011.

Only US Entries please due to shipping.

TTFN,

Bobbie

Seriously, What the Fuck?

2011-12-26T10:44:00.001-05:00

** I AM NOT ASKING FOR ANYONE TO AGREE WITH ME AND I AM NOT ASKING FOR A DEBATE. I AM JUST WRITING HOW I FEEL. THIS IS MY OPINION AND I AM ENTITLED TO HAVE ONE **

Every once in a while I read something on the internet that seriously has me going “WTF” so this morning I had my coffee in hand and decided to catch up on news stories I hadn’t been able to read when I found this one:

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/australian-hospital-aborts-wrong-baby-6267545.html

Okay first of all I really don’t know how I feel about abortion. I am more of a “do what you think is best” kind of person. Sometimes it is for the best other times it is just for selfish reasons. I mean seriously if you have had over 5 abortions you need to close your legs and quit being such a whore. I am sure this mother had every reason for doing what she did even though 32 weeks is awfully late to have an abortion. Also, I wonder if maybe she wasn’t pressured by the husband to get rid of the sick kid. I really don’t feel sorry for her, horrible I know. But with every decision comes a consequence and sometimes they can be rather harsh. I know this for a fact. My problem with this story is this part right here:

The mother then had an emergency Caesarean section and the sick child was also terminated in a three-hour operation

WTF? The baby was delivered and then terminated? I am taking that to mean it was delivered alive and then basically murdered. Wow, I just can’t comprehend that. 32 weeks is 8 months meaning it is a viable human being. There are hundreds of articles that prove babies as young as 24 weeks can survive and live a full life. I understand that this baby had a heart defect but delivering it so someone can kill it, seriously that is just wrong. How do you do that? Do they inject them with something to stop the heart? Suck out their brain? I am being serious. How is it performed? If the baby was going to die like they said it was going to and they delivered it then why not let nature take its course? The mother had already lost the healthy infant and it seems like she would at least want to hold the one that was left a little while before it died. If you play devil’s advocate though it could be possible the baby wasn’t as sick as they thought? Maybe the heart defect was one that could be cured and maybe she decided to terminate it to cover up the mistake she and the doctors made. Seriously, I am not being mean, I am just trying to figure out how anyone could allow their child, their flesh and blood be delivered and then murdered. I can’t fathom it, I honestly can’t.

The more I think about it the more I realize I don’t feel sorry for this mother at all. She deserves whatever torment she is going through. Letting someone murder your child, sick or not, is wrong and if you allow it to happen then you deserve all the misery you have coming to you. I not only feel this way about her, I feel this way about any woman that allows their children to be murdered. Women that get boyfriends and know they have anger issues but allow them to beat their children to death deserve a life of haunting. This woman however makes me want to throw up. I think it will be a long time before I get this “The mother then had an emergency Caesarean section and the sick child was also terminated in a three-hour operation” out of my head.

TTFN,

Bobbie

Merry Christmas :)

2011-12-24T07:06:00.000-05:00

I wanted to stop in and wish everyone a very, very Merry Christmas! I hope everyone has a joyous holiday season!

Twas The Night Before Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.

And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,

Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,

I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash,

Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow

Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.

When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,

But a miniature sleigh, and eight tinny reindeer.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,

I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.

More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,

And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

"Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen!

To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!

Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,

When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.

So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,

With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof

The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.

As I drew in my head, and was turning around,

Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,

And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.

A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,

And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!

His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,

And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,

And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.

He had a broad face and a little round belly,

That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,

And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!

A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,

Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,

And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.

And laying his finger aside of his nose,

And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,

And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.

But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,

"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

TTFN,

Bobbie

Christmas Morning Brunch

2011-12-23T06:56:00.000-05:00

Christmas morning is always a rushed affair when you have children. Thankfully in my case I never have to leave for the house but for others they may have to visit in laws, other family members, etc. For those of you that are staying home Brunch may be a good option. By the time we finish unwrapping our gifts it around 10:00. A little too late for breakfast but to early for lunch. So we do brunch and usually it is the same thing. I thought I would share a couple of recipes that we use for our brunch. Now remember my mom is a “made from scratch” type of person but I am not. So the recipes will be a mixture of both J

Bacon and Egg Casserole ( this is made the night before )

1/4 c. butter, melted

2 c. unseasoned croutons

2 c. onion and garlic croutons

2 c. grated cheddar cheese

2 c. milk

8 eggs, beaten

1 tbsp. prepared mustard

12 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Coat a 9 x 1 x 13 inch casserole dish with vegetable spray. Place croutons in casserole dish and pour butter over croutons. Sprinkle with grated cheese.

Mix milk, eggs, and mustard and pour over cheese mixture. Sprinkle bacon crumbs on top.

Bake at 325°F for about 45 minutes. Let stand for 15 minutes.

Serves about 8.

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls( again made the night before )

2 cups milk

2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast

1/2 cup warm water

1/3 cup white sugar

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 tablespoon baking powder

2 teaspoons salt

1 egg

7 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup butter

2 tablespoons light corn syrup

1 cup pecan halves

1/4 cup butter, softened

1/2 cup white sugar

1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Warm the milk in a small saucepan until it bubbles, then remove from heat. Let cool until lukewarm. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine yeast mixture, milk, sugar, oil, baking powder, salt, egg and 3 cups flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.

Heat brown sugar and 1/2 cup butter until melted. Remove from heat; stir in corn syrup. Divide mixture between two 9x13 inch baking pans. Sprinkle 1/2 cup pecans in each pan.

When dough has doubled in size, punch down and turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll out into a large rectangle and spread with butter. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon. Starting with the long side, roll up the rectangle into a log, and slice into 1 inch wide rolls. Place the rolls slightly apart in pans. Wrap pans with aluminum foil and refrigerate at least 12 hours but no longer than 48.

Remove rolls from refrigerator and let stand in a warm place until doubled in size, about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Bake uncovered in preheated oven until golden 30 to 35 minutes. Immediately invert pan on heatproof serving plate. Wait for 1 or 2 minutes before removing pan, so that caramel drizzles over rolls.

Creamy Potato Fritters:

2 cups shredded potatoes

1 cup cream cheese

4 eggs, separated

1/2 teaspoon dry mustard

3 tablespoons chopped chives

2 1/2 tablespoons chopped scallions

Mix the cream cheese and egg yolks together until smooth, then season with salt, pepper, and dry mustard.

Add chives and scallions.

Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the egg whites into the egg yolk and cream cheese mixture, then fold the grated potato into the egg mixture.

Cook both sides to a golden brown on a hot griddle and serve immediately.

Serve with sour cream and applesauce.

My non-alcoholic Mimosa recipe ( if it is fewer than 8 people you can do this individually, if not I would recommend serving in a punch bowl garnished with oranges and lemons )

Ginger-Ale (2 liters if doing punch bowl)

Orange Juice ( 64oz’s if doing punch bowl)

Lemon-Aid ( already mixed according to directions…if doing punch bowl you need 2 frozen ones )

Thinly sliced oranges and Lemons for garnish

Single Servings:

Fill a champagne glass with 2/3 orange juice, 1/3 lemon-aid and top off with ginger ale ( be careful of it possibly running over. Pour the ginger ale slowly) cut a little slice into your orange and lemon. Place them together for garnish.

Punch Bowl :

Combine ingredients and garnish with your lemons and oranges. Make sure you make this about 30 to 40 minutes before you need it so the lemon aid has time to melt.

Chipped Beef Dip..Before I go on I just want to tell you how I do this. First, I do not buy the dried beef in a jar or bag. It is loaded with sodium and most of the time it is tough. I always buy fresh sliced chipped beef from the deli. Also, the recipe calls for minced beef. I have found that rolling the beef up and then slicing it across ( making strips ) is better. I serve mine with bread.

2 2oz jars dried beef (minced) ( or 1lb of fresh sliced chipped beef)

2 8oz packages of cream cheese (softened)

4 tablespoons milk

1 cup sour cream

1 medium onion

salt and pepper to taste

optional (1/2 cup green pepper, 1 cup chopped pecans)

Combine all ingredients.

Mix Well.

Place in oven proof dish (or crockpot).

Bake at 350 degrees F. for 20-30 minutes.

Garnish is you like.

Serve hot with crackers or in bread bowl.

TTFN!

Bobbie

Having A Rough Day or Should I Say Life

2011-12-21T20:01:00.000-05:00

Just thought I would take a few minutes to tell each of you that I have a lot of things going on in my life right now. And since I have always said that this is my outlet I am going to share. Please remember I am not trying to offend anyone in any way but this is my co blog and I just have to vent.
The last couple of weeks I have really began to wonder if what I have been taught to believe is real. Is what I have been told about my Bible the truth. I have questioned this many times in my life but more lately. I am trying hard to understand why it is you pray for the same things over and over, but never see things change. I do understand the concept of sometimes we must wait and yet remain faithful in prayer. I wonder how this God that is supposed to be merciful, loving, compassionate, and kind could let any of his children suffer in pain, physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, or even financially.
I truly believed at one time that God would find a way to answer all my prayers. I also truly believed that God would always find a way for me. I have also always tried to give him the Glory that he deserves, but as of late I truly wonder if any of it is true. And I say to myself many times over that I am not gonna pray anymore, yet I find myself still praying and crying. I spend many nights just trying to feel God near to me or really believe that he is with me. I wonder many nights if maybe I ask to much of God, maybe I have made God so angry that he has forsaken me, or maybe just maybe there isn't anything out there and I am just praying for nothing. I have questioned my faith many many times in the last two years especially and I have voiced it clearly on here. And some have even told me to stop with all the questions and all the doubt. Well I will tell you that, that in itself is easier said then done.Each of us has our own walk of faith. Each of us go through different things in our walk and even though I can understand that thought, it doesn't help me not to question. It just makes me question more. This walk has sometimes been my greatest source of joy and yet my greatest source of pain. I understand I was never promised a rose garden and I am not delusional in any way here. It is just that right now in this very moment I am hanging on to what little faith I have by a thread.
I honestly don't know if or when God will help me not to question him, his will, or his way. And if he will ever answer any of my prayers I just now that no matter how much I want to quit praying, I can't. As much as I want to give up on what I believe, I can't. So I just keep trying to believe that there is a God and he is what keeps me staying on my knees and yes at some point he will hear me and see me through all the pain that I am going through.

Christmas Eve/ Freebie

2011-12-21T08:58:00.000-05:00

Christmas Eve at our house is a very special time. For me especially because I get to do the whole thing from start to finish. I go all out too. I am sure that everyone already has their preparations in place but I still wanted to share with you what I do and some printables J

As with any holiday party the food is the star. I do a lot of appetizers and stuff. We have sandwiches instead of a hot meal because it is just easier and everyone has come to expect it. One year we had lasagna and everyone was like where are the sandwiches? Lol. Here are some recipes for stuff I make J

Hot Crab Dip

Ingredients:

1/2 pound Maryland crabmeat

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sour cream

2 tbsp. mayonnaise

1 tbsp. lemon juice

1 1/4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1/2 tsp. dry mustard

1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese

pinch garlic salt

paprika, for garnish

Instructions:

Remove cartilage from crabmeat. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, mustard and garlic salt until smooth. Add enough milk to make mixture creamy. Stir in 2 tbsp. of grated cheese. Fold crabmeat into mixture.

Pour mixture into a 1 quart casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese. Bake at 325° until mixture is bubbly and browned on top, about 30 minutes. Serve with slices of toasted French bread. Makes about 4 cups of dip.

Maple Glazed Meatballs

Serves 48

1 1/2 cups ketchup

1 cup maple syrup or maple flavored syrup

1/3 cup soy sauce

1 tbsp quick-cooking tapioca

1 1/2 tsp ground allspice

1 tsp dry mustard

2 pkg (about 16 oz each) frozen fully cooked meatballs

1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained

Combine ketchup, maple syrup, soy sauce, tapioca, allspice & mustard in slow cooker.

Partially thaw & separate meatballs. Carefully stir meatballs and pineapple chunks into ketchup mixture.

Cover; cook on LOW 5-6 hours. Stir before serving. Serve with cocktail picks.

Sausage Balls with Curry Dip:

Ingredients:

1 lb ground pork sausage

2 cups biscuit baking mix

1 pound sharp cheddar cheese shredded ( 2 cups )

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl combine the ingredients. Bake in a preheated over for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.

Curried Mayonaise Dip ( do not let the curry put you off..it is a delicious dip and you can add curry as desired. )

Ingredients:

1/2 cup mayo

1/2 pineapple preserves

1/2 teaspoon of curry or to taste

Combine all the ingredients and serve chilled. Makes about 1 cup.

Another thing I like to do is get creative! I make place cards, menus, little favors, etc. Here is a pic of the table last year ( yes, we use paper plates Christmas Eve. Santa is coming and we need to get to bed, there is not time for washing dishes :)

Here is a freebie to get you started. They are saved in word and there are 6 to a sheet. Just print, add name and cut!

Preview:

Download HERE

TTFN,

Bobbie

Internet Meanderings- Christmas Edition

2011-12-19T11:19:00.000-05:00

You may want to get a cup of coffee for this post. I have quite a few links for you. It is so hard to believe that Christmas is a little less than a week away. I am still getting last minute things done. I have to laugh at Christmas movies. They show everyone calm and relaxed going to Christmas parties, spending time with friends and family, and everything is calm. It is such a lie!! Most of the people I know are still running around Christmas Eve trying to get that last minute stuff, lol. Well maybe some of these links will help you. I have cookies, candy, last minute gift ideas and other things. Lets get started, squee!!

Christmas Cookies:

Peppermint Crunch

http://www.pillsbury.com/recipes/double-peppermint-crunch-cookies/

Salted Caramel Chocolate Truffle:

http://www.pillsbury.com/recipes/salted-caramel-stuffed-chocolate-truffle-cookies/

Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal:

http://www.rachaelray.com/recipe.php?recipe_id=3653

Classic Thumbprint Cookies:

http://www.rachaelray.com/recipe.php?recipe_id=3651

Christmas Candy:

Nutty Caramel Clusters:

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/nutty-caramel-clusters/detail.aspx

Old Fashioned Hard Candy:

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/old-fashioned-hard-candy-2/detail.aspx

Jif Glitter Balls : ( u can substitute colored sugar for the glitter )

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/jif-glitter-balls/detail.aspx

Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Truffles ( my favorite ever!!!!! )

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/ghirardelli-dark-chocolate-truffles/detail.aspx

Last Minute Gift Ideas:

Snack Gifts in a Jar:

American Blessings

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/foodgiftsnack/american-blessings-mix.html

Country Pecan Purses:

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/foodgiftsnack/country-pecan-purses.html

Ranch Dressing and Dip:

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/foodgiftsnack/ranch-dressing-dip-mix.html

Cookies In A Jar:

Baily Irish Cream balls:

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/foodgiftcook/baileys-irish-cream-balls.html

Coconut Snowballs:

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/foodgiftcook/coconut-snowballs.html

Hawaiian Mood Cookies:

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/foodgiftcook/hawaiian-mood-cookies.html

North Pole Cookie Dough:

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/foodgiftcook/north-pole-cookie-dough.html

Misc. Gifts in a Jar:

Chocolate Peanut Butter:

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/foodgiftvar/chocolate-peanut-butter.html

Seasoned Cornmeal Mixture ( this is sooo good for Chicken or Fish )

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/foodgiftvar/seasoned-cornmeal-breading.html

Craft Ideas:

This is such a cute idea!!! I love paper crafting!

http://dcwvinc.blogspot.com/2011/04/note-on-kindness.html

Candy Cane Soap

http://brandyscrafts.blogspot.com/2011/12/candy-cane-soap.html

Gingerbread House Mini Kit:

http://eighteen25.blogspot.com/2011/12/todays-guest-bee-in-our-bonnet.html

Santa is Here!

http://www.northpole.com/

http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/home

Follow his quest around the world Christmas Eve!

http://www.noradsanta.org/en/

Great Stocking Stuffer Ideas:

This place has some great stocking stuffers! ( last minute ideas just in case Santa forgets, after all he is old )

http://stockingstuffersideas.com/

When you are with your families this Christmas please remember the men, women, and children that can’t be with their families. Whether they are deployed or have a sudden illness it is never fun when you are away from your family for the holidays. I know this for a fact. So dedicated to all those people that are missing someone this Christmas:

http://youtu.be/igScPXNahf0

From my family to yours, I hope your holiday season is filled with joy, laughter, and peace.

Bobbie

25 Days of Christmas Day 20

2011-12-19T10:58:00.002-05:00

To find a pair of these for my daughter for Christmas. Apparently these are the HOT commidity this Christmas!

25 Days of Christmas Day 18

2011-12-19T10:56:00.003-05:00

I love music and have a few choice CD's I would love to have.

25 Days of Christmas Day 16

2011-12-19T10:54:00.002-05:00

Who doesn't like cash. This is a wonderful gift to give and get!

The 19th Day of Christmas

2011-12-19T09:57:00.000-05:00

Someone bring me Johnny Depp!!

TTFN

Bobbie

The 17th Day of Christmas

2011-12-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

On the 17th day of Christmas please someone give to me....

An I-Mac....the Big Daddy of all computers! I have wanted one of these for years but two things has stopped me..the price and learning a new operating system, lol!

TTFN,

Bobbie

Christmas Post It Notes Freebie

2011-12-16T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!
Today I have a post it note holder freebie! These will hold the original size post it notes. The come in PFD and JPG form. Just print, cut and attach your post in notes on the square. You can download HERE.

Preview:

25 Days of Christmas Day 15

2011-12-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

On the 15th day of Christmas please someone give to me....

A Cintiq! OMG! The things i could do with this!!! I want one bad!

TTFN,

Bobbie

Christmas Labels Freebie

2011-12-15T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!
Today I have some cute Christmas Labels. You can use these on all your packages or gift bags this year! Files are in jpeg. Just print, cut, and attach. You can download HERE

Preview:

These are for personal use only. You may not print them out and sell them. Also, please do not share the file. If you would like to share these with friends please direct them to the blog to download.

TTFN,

Bobbie

25 Days of Christmas Day 14

2011-12-14T10:30:00.000-05:00

On the 14th day of Christmas someone bring to me:

I would absolutely love to have one of these..

Cissy

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 13

2011-12-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

He is my FORTRESS
Ps 18:2 The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 12

2011-12-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

He is my BREAD OF LIFE
Jn 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.

25 Days of Christmas Day 13

2011-12-13T08:00:00.001-05:00

On the 13th day of Christmas please someone give to me....

An I-Pad! I drool over this thing. I am not sure if i want it because I need it or just because I want it..but who cares, it's awesome!

TTFN,

Bobbie

Cocoa Wrapper Printable Freebie

2011-12-13T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!
I have some Christmas Cocoa Wrappers for you! Just print, cut, and wrap around a packet of Cocoa. These make great little gifts and also they are perfect for those Hot Chocolate Baskets. Files include a PDF file and also a JPG file. You can download HERE
Preview:

These are © Rebelle Doll Designs and are for personal use only. You may gift anything you make as long as it is wrapped around a cocoa packet. You may not print them out as they are give them away nor share the file. If you would like to share please send people to the blog to download them. Thank you.

TTFN,

Bobbie

25 Days of Christmas Day 12

2011-12-12T12:30:00.000-05:00

Twelve Drummers Drumming Day 12

Drummers Drumming refers to the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostle's Creed

Eleven Pipers Piping Day11

Pipers Piping refers to the eleven faithful apostles

Ten Lords A Leaping Day 10

Lords A-leaping refers to the ten commandments

Nine Ladies Dancing Day 9

Ladies Dancing refers to the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit

Eight Maids A Milking for Day 8

Maids A-milking refers to the eight beatitudes

Seven Swans A Swimming Day 7

Swans A-swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments

Six Geese A Laying Day 6

Geese A-laying refers to the six days of creation

Five Golden Rings Day 5

Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.

Four Calling Birds for Day 4

Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists

Three French Hens for Day 3

French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues

Two Turtle Doves Day 2

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Partridge in a Pear Tree Day 1

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 11

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

He is my POWER OF GOD
1 Cor 1:24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.

25 Days of Christmas Day 11

2011-12-11T12:30:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of: www.clipartof.com

Eleven Pipers Piping Day11

Pipers Piping refers to the eleven faithful apostles

Ten Lords A Leaping Day 10

Lords A-leaping refers to the ten commandments

Nine Ladies Dancing Day 9

Ladies Dancing refers to the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit

Eight Maids A Milking for Day 8

Maids A-milking refers to the eight beatitudes

Seven Swans A Swimming Day 7

Swans A-swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments

Six Geese A Laying Day 6

Geese A-laying refers to the six days of creation

Five Golden Rings Day 5

Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.

Four Calling Birds for Day 4

Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists

Three French Hens for Day 3

French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues

Two Turtle Doves Day 2

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Partridge in a Pear Tree Day 1

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

24hr Flash Giveaway: Rachael Ray Guy Food Cookbook

2011-12-11T12:00:00.000-05:00

This flash giveaway will run from 12:00pm 12/11/11 to 11:59am 12/12/11.

Rules:
All you have to do is be or become a follower via GFC or Google+.
Become a Facebook member
Follow us on Twitter
Then leave us a comment telling us what you did. Please make sure to leave your email addy so we know how to contact you.

The winner will be picked at Random.

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 10

2011-12-11T11:48:00.001-05:00

He is my LIGHT
Jn 8:12 Then Jesus spake again unto them, saying, I am the truth the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Blessings Blog Hop Sunday

2011-12-11T00:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to our Blog Hop which will happen every Sunday! Everyone is invited to participate ! If you have a blog leave your link below.

New Facebook

2011-12-10T17:27:00.001-05:00

Okay, so we now have the new group up and running. The link has not been added yet to the facebook icon in our left hand sidebar so we thought we would just post here for you.

http://www.facebook.com/groups/256292644431610/

Winner Round Up

2011-12-10T10:45:00.001-05:00

And the winners from this weeks 24hr. Flash Giveaways are:

Sunday: Rachael Ray Express Meals Cookbook: Deana Marshall

Monday: $5 Amazon Code: NO Entries

Tuesday: Rachael Ray 30 Minute Meals Cookbook: Ashley Hewell

Wednesday: $5 Amazon Code: Tonya James

Thursday: Rachael Ray Kids Food Cookbook: Deana Marshall

Friday: $5 Amazon Code: NO Entries

All winners have been emailed and have 72hrs to respond. Thanks to everyone for entering and watch tomorrow for new ones to start for next week.

25 Days of Christmas Day 10

2011-12-10T09:30:00.000-05:00

Image couresty of: www.clipartheaven.com

Ten Lords A Leaping Day 10

Lords A-leaping refers to the ten commandments

Nine Ladies Dancing Day 9

Ladies Dancing refers to the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit

Eight Maids A Milking for Day 8

Maids A-milking refers to the eight beatitudes

Seven Swans A Swimming Day 7

Swans A-swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments

Six Geese A Laying Day 6

Geese A-laying refers to the six days of creation

Five Golden Rings Day 5

Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.

Four Calling Birds for Day 4

Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists

Three French Hens for Day 3

French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues

Two Turtle Doves Day 2

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Partridge in a Pear Tree Day 1

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 9

2011-12-10T08:30:00.000-05:00

He is my OVERCOMER
Jn16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

25 Days of Christmas Day 9

2011-12-09T09:30:00.000-05:00

Image cortesy of: www.sewterific.com

Nine Ladies Dancing Day 9

Ladies Dancing refers to the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit

Eight Maids A Milking for Day 8

Maids A-milking refers to the eight beatitudes

Seven Swans A Swimming Day 7

Swans A-swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments

Six Geese A Laying Day 6

Geese A-laying refers to the six days of creation

Five Golden Rings Day 5

Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.

Four Calling Birds for Day 4

Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists

Three French Hens for Day 3

French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues

Two Turtle Doves Day 2

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Partridge in a Pear Tree Day 1

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

24hr Flash Giveaway $5 Amazon Code

2011-12-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

This flash giveaway will run from 9:00am 12/09/11 to 8:59am 12/10/11.

Rules:
All you have to do is be or become a follower via GFC, Twitter, or Google+.
Retweet or Share this to Facebook
Then leave us a comment telling us what you did. Please make sure to leave your email addy so we know how to contact you.

The winner will be picked at Random.

How Do You Deal With The Stress Of Holiday Shopping?

2011-12-09T08:53:00.000-05:00

I have to be totally honest I suffer from severe anxiety attacks so just going grocery shopping is hard for me. So to be able to get all of my holiday shopping done and to make it as stress free as I can, I do most of my shopping online (in my p.j.'s) or I go to the stores really late at night.
Now I work 6 days a week so I usually end up going on a Saturday Night and I always to go armed with list in hand. Making a list makes the process a little easier because I go in knowing exactly what I a going to get. I must admit I do usually stray from the list a bit and pick up a few other things, but a list helps me to stay focused on the task at hand. It also helps me to move quickly in and out of each store. The only downfall with late night shopping is not all stores are open 24 hrs, so that is where online shopping comes in. I just love online shopping because it doesn't matter if I have brushed my teeth, combed my hair, or even gotten dressed yet. I get my coffee and at my laptop I sit until I get all of it finished or just need to order what I can for the day.
So at least by figuring out a plan I am able to keep my stress level at least to a mild roar.

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 8

2011-12-09T08:30:00.000-05:00

He is my RESTING PLACE
Jer 50:6 My people have been lost sheep: their shepherds have caused them to go astray, they have turned them away on the mountains; they have gone from mountain to hill, they have forgotten their resting place.

25 Days of Christmas Day 8

2011-12-08T09:30:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of : www.123rf.com

Eight Maids A Milking for Day 8

Maids A-milking refers to the eight beatitudes

Seven Swans A Swimming Day 7

Swans A-swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments

Six Geese A Laying Day 6

Geese A-laying refers to the six days of creation

Five Golden Rings Day 5

Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.

Four Calling Birds for Day 4

Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists

Three French Hens for Day 3

French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues

Two Turtle Doves Day 2

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Partridge in a Pear Tree Day 1

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

24hr Flash Giveaway Rachael Ray Top 30 30 minute Meals Kid Food Cookbook

2011-12-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

This flash giveaway will run from 9:00am 12/08/11 to 8:59am 12/09/11.

Rules:
All you have to do is be or become a follower via GFC, Twitter, or Google+.
Retweet or Share this to Facebook
Then leave us a comment telling us what you did. Please make sure to leave your email addy so we know how to contact you.

The winner will be picked at Random.

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 7

2011-12-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

He is my TRUTH
Jn 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

So What You Doing?

2011-12-07T22:25:00.001-05:00

So many new things going on in life. I honestly do not know where to even begin. I have been so busy networking and entering giveaways I have neglected to post anything of real importance to me.
So let's start here. For those of you that are reading I have made some very new and wonderful friends within the last few weeks. I have had so much fun networking and meeting these new friends. I cannot Thank them enough for coming over, visiting, and joining TOAMWD.
Next all the giveaways. As you have seen I have found very nice giveaways and tried to share as many with you as I can. A bit disappointed I have entered well over 100 and only won one, but that's the way the cookie crumbles. At least that is one gift down on my Christmas list to buy for someone.
Now as for life itself. I can tell you that I am still trying to overcome most of the things that have plagued me since I began this blog, but each day is better and better. The last few weeks have been really good. I am just taking life one day at a time and trying to remember how blessed I am for all the things and people in my life.

25 Days of Christmas Day 7

2011-12-07T09:30:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of: quietlunch.com

Seven Swans A Swimming Day 7

Swans A-swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments

Six Geese A Laying Day 6

Geese A-laying refers to the six days of creation

Five Golden Rings Day 5

Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.

Four Calling Birds for Day 4

Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists

Three French Hens for Day 3

French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues

Two Turtle Doves Day 2

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Partridge in a Pear Tree Day 1

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

24 hr Flash Giveaway: $5 Amazon Gift Code

2011-12-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

This flash giveaway will run from 9:00am 12/07/11 to 8:59am 12/08/11.

Rules:
All you have to do is be or become a follower via GFC, Twitter, or Google+.
Retweet or Share this to Facebook
Then leave us a comment telling us what you did. Please make sure to leave your email addy so we know how to contact you.

The winner will be picked at Random.

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 6

2011-12-07T08:30:00.000-05:00

He is my PATIENCE
Rom 15:5 Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be like-minded one toward another according to Christ Jesus.

More Great Giveaways

2011-12-06T09:56:00.001-05:00

Here are some more great giveaways to check out. But hurry they end tomorrow.

http://ihgiveaways.blogspot.com/2011/11/giveaway-pillow-pets-lets-play-nintendo.html

http://kidzborn2impress.blogspot.com/2011/11/born-2-impress-holiday-gift-guide_07.html

http://blommi.com/au-gratin-potato-and-bacon-pizza-recipe-and-a-giveaway/

http://nuts4stuff.blogspot.com/2011/11/ivolve-beauty-mineral-eye-shadows.html

25 Days of Christmas Day 6

2011-12-06T09:30:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of: www.clipartguide.com

Six Geese A Laying Day 6

Geese A-laying refers to the six days of creation

Five Golden Rings Day 5

Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.

Four Calling Birds for Day 4

Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists

Three French Hens for Day 3

French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues

Two Turtle Doves Day 2

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Partridge in a Pear Tree Day 1

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

24 hr Flash Giveaway: Rachel Ray 30 minute Meals Cookbook

2011-12-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

This flash giveaway will run from 9:00am 12/06/11 to 8:59am 12/07/11.

Rules:
All you have to do is be or become a follower via GFC, Twitter, or Google+.
Retweet or Share this to Facebook
Then leave us a comment telling us what you did. Please make sure to leave your email addy so we know how to contact you.

The winner will be picked at Random.

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 5

2011-12-06T08:30:00.000-05:00

He is HOPE
Ps 71:5 For thou art my hope, O Lord God: thou art my trust from my youth.

25 Days of Christmas Day 5

2011-12-05T09:30:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of: www.abc-machine-embroidery.com

Five Golden Rings Day 5

Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.

Four Calling Birds for Day 4

Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists

Three French Hens for Day 3

French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues

Two Turtle Doves Day 2

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Partridge in a Pear Tree Day 1

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

24 hr Flash Giveaway: $5 Amazon Gift Code

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

This flash giveaway will run from 9:00am 12/05/11 to 8:59am 12/06/11.

Rules:
All you have to do is be or become a follower via GFC, Twitter, or Google+.
Retweet or Share this to Facebook
Then leave us a comment telling us what you did. Please make sure to leave your email addy so we know how to contact you.

The winner will be picked at Random.

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 4

2011-12-05T08:30:00.000-05:00

He is my REDEEMER
Is 59:20 And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord.

Secret Center Cookie Cups

2011-12-04T09:30:00.000-05:00

INGREDIENTS

1 roll (16.5 oz) Pillsbury® refrigerated peanut butter cookies

36 miniature milk chocolate-covered nougat and caramel candy bars (about 1-inch square), unwrapped

36 small paper baking cups (1 3/4 inch)

1 container (1 lb) chocolate creamy ready-to-spread frosting

DIRECTIONS

1 Heat oven to 375°F. For each cookie cup, wrap heaping teaspoonful cookie dough around 1 candy bar, enclosing it almost completely and forming ball. Place in paper baking cup; place cups 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets. 2 Bake 8 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. (Centers of cookies will sink slightly.) Cool 1 minute; remove from cookie sheets to cooling racks. Cool completely, about 15 minutes. 3 Spoon about 3/4 cup frosting into pastry bag with a star tip. Pipe frosting on top of each cookie cup.

Find these and other great recipes at :http://www.pillsbury.com

24 hr Flash Giveaway: Rachel Ray Express Meals Cookbook

2011-12-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

In honor of the holiday season we thought we would try our hand at some 24 hr flash giveaways. So here is our very first EVER!

This flash giveaway will run from 9:00am 12/04/11 to 8:59am 12/05/11.

Rules:
All you have to do is be or become a follower via GFC, Twitter, or Google+. Note: If you are a new follower please let us know that to because we do follow back.
Retweet or Share this to Facebook
Then leave us a comment telling us what you did. Please make sure to include your email addy so we know how to contact you.

The winner will be picked at Random.

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 3

2011-12-04T08:30:00.000-05:00

He is my STRENGTH
Is 12:2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid for the Lord JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.

25 Days of Christmas Day 4

2011-12-04T07:34:00.001-05:00

Image courtesy of: http://pictures.servegame.org

Four Calling Birds for Day 4

Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists

Three French Hens for Day 3

French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues

Two Turtle Doves Day 2

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Partridge in a Pear Tree Day 1

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Blessings Blog Hop Sunday

2011-12-04T00:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to our Blog Hop which will happen every Sunday! Everyone is invited to participate ! If you have a blog leave your link below.

30 Attributes of the Lord Day 2

2011-12-03T23:30:00.000-05:00

He is my HELPER
Jn 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever.

25 Days of Christmas Day 3

2011-12-03T22:30:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of:zazzleblogs.com

Three French Hens for Day 3

French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues

Two Turtle Doves Day 2

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Partridge in a Pear Tree Day 1

Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

25 Days of Christmas Day 2

2011-12-03T21:00:00.001-05:00

Image courtesy of:http://www.writing.com

Heres your Two Turtle Doves for Day 2

TwoTurtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

Partridge in a Pear Tree for Day 1

True Love refers to God

25 Days of Christmas Day 1

2011-12-03T19:00:00.000-05:00

So here we begin the 25 Days of Christmas. Each day we will post a new image and as you can see the first twelve are going to follow in tradition of the song.
After the twelve days are over come back to see what the other 13 will hold.

So here is your partridge in a pear tree.

True Love refers to God

Image courtesy of: http://www.canenews.com

30 Attributes of the Lord. Day 1

2011-12-03T17:00:00.000-05:00

He is my RESTORER
Ps 23:3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.