Hello to anyone who happens to be popping in at learning as we go. I've a bit of an announcement to share with you. I've decided to stop blogging. Wait, before you leave you must know that I'm starting a new blog. I am really excited about it. It's a blog I feel a little more comfortable with and because of that I will probably be a little better about posting.
If you know me at all, then you know how much I love to make my house a home, and how much I love to decorate and all things that pertain to simplifying life and home. It's a bit of a work in progress, so I hope that you will bear with me as I get it up and going. The blog that is. I am so excited about it, and I can't wait to really get started.
So, look for me at www.thisprimitivehome.blogspot.com. Say hello and let me know you've stopped by. I'm starting the blog with the December Photo Project. What fun.
Just want to say goodbye from learning as we go and thank you for all of your support and reading through some of my "thoughts." I'm far from done sharing, just done sharing here...I think. : ) It's really not a good-bye, just a sideways good-bye. See ya.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Monday, October 8, 2012
I've been a little busy.
You will pardon my lack of blogging as of late. Some of it comes down to a sort of writers block, some to lack of things to say but mainly to lack of time. I am not someone who can handle too many things at once, so the more important things take precedence over blogging.
We were out of town last weekend for a trip to the beach. It was wonderful except for the $80 ticket my husband got for speeding through Delaware. Though it was a little annoying she was actually generous and only charged him with a lesser speed than the actual. *Note to self: send in the payment.* Ugh!
Was on my way to one of my cleaning jobs last week and I got hit by a deer. Yep, you read that right, I got hit by a deer. I was braking to avoid hitting one, when a second ran out and ran right into the back of my car. I am so glad it didn't do any damage. Only damage was to my emotions. What a nerve-racking moment. Do you ever wonder why silly things like those happen? Strange.
Anyway, I've done a few small projects around my home that I've shown on my blog. Well, we just embarked on a big project just last week. We are knee deep in renovating my bathroom. Who knew that one small room could create such havoc. But I must say it is worth it. My bathroom has been a mess since we moved into this house. Clean, but a mess. Mainly the floor. The tiles were coming loose and the grout was looking a little...gross.
I will show you what we started with. The first picture shows what the room looked like when we bought the house. I must disclose to you that the tub (which is hard to see) was actually the turquoisey minty color. Though very clean and in relatively good condition, the color was just not my thing.
I decided to put a band-aid on it until it was time to renovate, so here is the most recent photo of our bathroom.
As you can see, I did my best to work with what was there. I removed the wallpaper and freshened up the walls and vanity with paint. I placed those two rugs on the floor to hide the loose floor tiles. What you can't see in this picture is the pee stained rusted out floor heater right by the toilet. It was nas. Tee. Nasty. (Did I just write the word toilet on my blog?)
Anyway, since the majority of this renovation would fall on my husband it was up to him when he wanted to get started. Well, he wanted to get started and I was in full agreement. So, we are down to one bathroom. One woman sharing a bathroom with 3 boys and a dog. It's proving to be a challenge at times, but we'll get through it. (No, my dog doesn't use the bathroom to do her business, her food and water bowl is in there.)
Not to mention the fact that my washer and dryer are also in that bathroom.
Well, here is what my bathroom looks like now.
Nice huh? Well, you will see I like to keep my rooms decorated during renovating. ; ) Why not? Makes me like to go in there.
I will keep you posted as to how things are going. Aside from the toilet lid getting busted everything has been going smoothly. I only hope it continues that way. I can't wait to get to the putting it back together part. Soon.
We were out of town last weekend for a trip to the beach. It was wonderful except for the $80 ticket my husband got for speeding through Delaware. Though it was a little annoying she was actually generous and only charged him with a lesser speed than the actual. *Note to self: send in the payment.* Ugh!
Was on my way to one of my cleaning jobs last week and I got hit by a deer. Yep, you read that right, I got hit by a deer. I was braking to avoid hitting one, when a second ran out and ran right into the back of my car. I am so glad it didn't do any damage. Only damage was to my emotions. What a nerve-racking moment. Do you ever wonder why silly things like those happen? Strange.
Anyway, I've done a few small projects around my home that I've shown on my blog. Well, we just embarked on a big project just last week. We are knee deep in renovating my bathroom. Who knew that one small room could create such havoc. But I must say it is worth it. My bathroom has been a mess since we moved into this house. Clean, but a mess. Mainly the floor. The tiles were coming loose and the grout was looking a little...gross.
I will show you what we started with. The first picture shows what the room looked like when we bought the house. I must disclose to you that the tub (which is hard to see) was actually the turquoisey minty color. Though very clean and in relatively good condition, the color was just not my thing.
I decided to put a band-aid on it until it was time to renovate, so here is the most recent photo of our bathroom.
Anyway, since the majority of this renovation would fall on my husband it was up to him when he wanted to get started. Well, he wanted to get started and I was in full agreement. So, we are down to one bathroom. One woman sharing a bathroom with 3 boys and a dog. It's proving to be a challenge at times, but we'll get through it. (No, my dog doesn't use the bathroom to do her business, her food and water bowl is in there.)
Not to mention the fact that my washer and dryer are also in that bathroom.
Well, here is what my bathroom looks like now.
Nice huh? Well, you will see I like to keep my rooms decorated during renovating. ; ) Why not? Makes me like to go in there.
I will keep you posted as to how things are going. Aside from the toilet lid getting busted everything has been going smoothly. I only hope it continues that way. I can't wait to get to the putting it back together part. Soon.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Guest posting today!
Happy Monday morning. It happens to be an absolutely beautiful (perfect) day here! I love Monday's. There's just something about getting a chance to start over with a new week. And we get to do that 52 times a year. Just remembering the quote from "Anne of Green Gables."
**Tomorrow is always fresh, with no mistakes in it."
Love that. I hope you'll use your Monday as a fresh start. And don't worry, if you blow it, you always get a fresh start tomorrow, or the next Monday!!
***Today I have the priveledge of guest posting on my dear friend Bevy's blog. I feel so honored. I hope you'll pop on over and read what I have to say about anxiety. Anxiety can be a dark topic, but nevertheless it's a real issue for me. I hope you'll feel encouraged. Say Hi to Bevy and be entered to win a giveaway!!!
To read my guest post go here.
Thanks for stopping by!!
**Tomorrow is always fresh, with no mistakes in it."
Love that. I hope you'll use your Monday as a fresh start. And don't worry, if you blow it, you always get a fresh start tomorrow, or the next Monday!!
***Today I have the priveledge of guest posting on my dear friend Bevy's blog. I feel so honored. I hope you'll pop on over and read what I have to say about anxiety. Anxiety can be a dark topic, but nevertheless it's a real issue for me. I hope you'll feel encouraged. Say Hi to Bevy and be entered to win a giveaway!!!
To read my guest post go here.
Thanks for stopping by!!
Saturday, September 15, 2012
A little home improvement
I just wanted to show you what I've been up to as of late.
Last Saturday I had a whole day all to myself so I took advantage of that time and decided to paint my kitchen cabinets. It's only phase one of the whole kitchen makeover, but so far I'm pleased with the results.
To get a real appreciation I'll show you a picture of what the kitchen looked like before. This is what it looked like when we bought the house.
This next picture shows what it looked like after we took out the prison bars and painted the walls.
Since I took the photos, I've already changed out the curtains and added some decorations to the cabinet sides at the window. I'll show an prettier picture when the kitchen is cleaned up and ready.
Last Saturday I had a whole day all to myself so I took advantage of that time and decided to paint my kitchen cabinets. It's only phase one of the whole kitchen makeover, but so far I'm pleased with the results.
To get a real appreciation I'll show you a picture of what the kitchen looked like before. This is what it looked like when we bought the house.
That's about how it has stayed since we moved in. It's not that I hated the blue, it just wasn't the color I chose, nor would it really be a color I would choose. And after living here for over two years, the paint was beginning to chip and the cabinets were getting a little on the dirty side. So, I decided it was time to change. And with no one around it was the perfect opportunity.
Part of the reason it took me so long to paint them was because I struggled with what color I wanted. My dream was to paint them black. Oh I love that, but with black appliances I thought that would be way to much. I also thought about doing a colonial burgundy, but again I wasn't sure if it would be too dark. So, I opted for a colonial green. Green isn't one of my favorite colors, but it's definitely one that I'm okay with. Better than the blue anyway.
So, here's how they turned out.
Since I took the photos, I've already changed out the curtains and added some decorations to the cabinet sides at the window. I'll show an prettier picture when the kitchen is cleaned up and ready.
Well, like I said, it's just phase one. We want to install a new backsplash. I'm thinking brick. Also, we want to install a new counter top. We have a portable dishwasher (you can kind of see it in the photo above) but I would like to have one installed when we replace the counters. All of this takes time and money. Both a precious thing these days.
So, what do you think? Should I have gone with black or burgundy?
Friday, September 14, 2012
Once upon a time
Once upon a time there was a prince and a princess. On a certain day in the merry month of September this happy couple discussed who would take the "good" chariot. The prince decided to let the princess have it and she was ever so grateful.
He on the other hand would suffer because of this decision. You see, the chariot that the prince had to take was considerably older and didn't have the special features of the princess' chariot. One such feature it was lacking was that of a reminder when the prince would leave his lights on. **Who knew a chariot had lights. ; ]
On this merry day, the prince drove his chariot to work and left the lights on. Because of this the chariot had a dead battery. However, the prince will not discover this until about 6 pm when it is time to leave.
The princess, being the sweet woman she was, was preparing for her prince a lovely dinner. Her happy children whistling tunes while setting the family dinner table. In concern for her prince she placed a call only to discover his battery was dead.
**Okay, so part of that paragraph may not be entirely true.** Side note, this is the fourth time the prince has had a dead battery. **Another side note, the prince received a birthday gift from the princess' mother containing a device that would jump start the prince's chariot without using another chariot. Did the prince have it with him on this merry day?** No.
So, the prince had to go find help for his chariot. When he calls his precious princess he then informs her that not only was his battery dead, but now his keys were locked inside his chariot.
The princess realizes the predicament her prince is in and must abruptly end her dinner, leaving the half eaten plates and food on the counter. She heads to her chariot with her children in tow. And of course, the extra keys to the prince's chariot, oh, and the special device to jump the battery.
The children had homework that night and school the next day and the princess realizes that the children can not go along. So, she turns to her mother for help. Dropping the keys and device with the princess' mom, the decision is made that she would go save the prince and the princess would take care of the children.
**Side note, the princess mom has a gps, but it is in the chariot that is being repaired at the mechanics.**
So, she heads off into the night to save the prince. But by this time, the prince had hitched a ride in a co-workers chariot to his home to wait for help. A short time later, the princess checks in with the prince and learns that he is now with the princess' mom and heading to revive his chariot.
Ah, all is well, or so she thinks. The princess had just sat down at the table to reload on her dinner and help her children with their homework when the prince calls. He needed help because they were lost. The princess being the sweet wife she is digs up a map (on google) and becomes her prince's gps, guiding them along to their destination.
However, what the princess doesn't realize is that the destination on the map was incorrect. And so, for thirty minutes she sends them in the complete opposite direction. Once the error was discovered, the prince and the princess' mom refueled her chariot and headed back in the direction of the prince's chariot.
It seemed that all was well at this point. And it was, however, by now it was after 9 pm. The prince would arrive to find his chariot. Get it started and drive home. He will arrive at 10:15.
Upon entering his castle, the prince falls to the couch in exhaustion, where he will sleep the entire night.
And they lived happily ever after...
The moral of the story is, make sure you have an extra set of keys hidden somewhere on your chariot. And, if you turn on your chariot lights, please remember to turn them off. If you receive a gift from your prince/princess' mom, always have it with you. And make sure you always have a map in the glove box of your chariot.
**This story may or may not have been true. It may or may not have happened to me and my husband. He may or may not have woken the next morning and in a series of events managed to lose his keys and throw them away all within five minutes. We may or may not live happily ever after!!!
He on the other hand would suffer because of this decision. You see, the chariot that the prince had to take was considerably older and didn't have the special features of the princess' chariot. One such feature it was lacking was that of a reminder when the prince would leave his lights on. **Who knew a chariot had lights. ; ]
On this merry day, the prince drove his chariot to work and left the lights on. Because of this the chariot had a dead battery. However, the prince will not discover this until about 6 pm when it is time to leave.
The princess, being the sweet woman she was, was preparing for her prince a lovely dinner. Her happy children whistling tunes while setting the family dinner table. In concern for her prince she placed a call only to discover his battery was dead.
**Okay, so part of that paragraph may not be entirely true.** Side note, this is the fourth time the prince has had a dead battery. **Another side note, the prince received a birthday gift from the princess' mother containing a device that would jump start the prince's chariot without using another chariot. Did the prince have it with him on this merry day?** No.
So, the prince had to go find help for his chariot. When he calls his precious princess he then informs her that not only was his battery dead, but now his keys were locked inside his chariot.
The princess realizes the predicament her prince is in and must abruptly end her dinner, leaving the half eaten plates and food on the counter. She heads to her chariot with her children in tow. And of course, the extra keys to the prince's chariot, oh, and the special device to jump the battery.
The children had homework that night and school the next day and the princess realizes that the children can not go along. So, she turns to her mother for help. Dropping the keys and device with the princess' mom, the decision is made that she would go save the prince and the princess would take care of the children.
**Side note, the princess mom has a gps, but it is in the chariot that is being repaired at the mechanics.**
So, she heads off into the night to save the prince. But by this time, the prince had hitched a ride in a co-workers chariot to his home to wait for help. A short time later, the princess checks in with the prince and learns that he is now with the princess' mom and heading to revive his chariot.
Ah, all is well, or so she thinks. The princess had just sat down at the table to reload on her dinner and help her children with their homework when the prince calls. He needed help because they were lost. The princess being the sweet wife she is digs up a map (on google) and becomes her prince's gps, guiding them along to their destination.
However, what the princess doesn't realize is that the destination on the map was incorrect. And so, for thirty minutes she sends them in the complete opposite direction. Once the error was discovered, the prince and the princess' mom refueled her chariot and headed back in the direction of the prince's chariot.
It seemed that all was well at this point. And it was, however, by now it was after 9 pm. The prince would arrive to find his chariot. Get it started and drive home. He will arrive at 10:15.
Upon entering his castle, the prince falls to the couch in exhaustion, where he will sleep the entire night.
And they lived happily ever after...
The moral of the story is, make sure you have an extra set of keys hidden somewhere on your chariot. And, if you turn on your chariot lights, please remember to turn them off. If you receive a gift from your prince/princess' mom, always have it with you. And make sure you always have a map in the glove box of your chariot.
**This story may or may not have been true. It may or may not have happened to me and my husband. He may or may not have woken the next morning and in a series of events managed to lose his keys and throw them away all within five minutes. We may or may not live happily ever after!!!
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Is there any room in your heart for me?
I have to say that my husband is in France right now and he took my camera with him. So, I've been making do with some old photos to go with my new posts. I hope you don't mind.
This post is not a cry for help. I'm not sad and pathetic even though it may sound like that. I actually have complete peace and I am very excited to see what the future holds. These are just thoughts goin through my mind and feelings in my heart.
*****
Over the summer our family made a huge change in our lives. We moved to a new church and decided to put our kids in a new school. I will post more about that later.
It feels as though we are starting all over again. In many ways it's been easy but in other ways it's been hard. One of them being the struggle to meet new people. I feel as though I am on the outside looking in.
It seems they all already have their friendships established. Like they've known each other for years. They seem genuinely interested in talking to me and meeting me, but is that where it stops? Their lives are full of family, church, school and the like. They are busy, like me. Could they have any more room in their lives for another friend? Is there any room in their hearts for me?
This has been weighing on my mind a lot lately. I guess it's natural for agirl woman to feel this way. We all want to fit in. Want to be liked. It's hard to be the one left out.
I know in time I will find my place. And I know it will take time. I just want a bucket full of friends. Not a lot just a bucket-full. ; ]
But more than that I would like one to be mine. Just mine. Okay, I'm scaring myself a little bit, but I think you know what I mean. That one that knows the real me. The one I can cry with, laugh (really laugh, you know, the pee your pants kind) with, go on play dates with and even "couple dates."
Sure, I still have friends from my old church, but things are different now. I don't see them anymore. I'm not looking to replace them, just add to my bucket. So, if I'm willing to add new friends to my life does that mean that others are too? If I still have room in my heart for another friend or two, does that mean they have a little room in their heart for me too?
This post is not a cry for help. I'm not sad and pathetic even though it may sound like that. I actually have complete peace and I am very excited to see what the future holds. These are just thoughts goin through my mind and feelings in my heart.
*****
Over the summer our family made a huge change in our lives. We moved to a new church and decided to put our kids in a new school. I will post more about that later.
It feels as though we are starting all over again. In many ways it's been easy but in other ways it's been hard. One of them being the struggle to meet new people. I feel as though I am on the outside looking in.
It seems they all already have their friendships established. Like they've known each other for years. They seem genuinely interested in talking to me and meeting me, but is that where it stops? Their lives are full of family, church, school and the like. They are busy, like me. Could they have any more room in their lives for another friend? Is there any room in their hearts for me?
This has been weighing on my mind a lot lately. I guess it's natural for a
I know in time I will find my place. And I know it will take time. I just want a bucket full of friends. Not a lot just a bucket-full. ; ]
 |
| My version of a bucket full of friends!! :) |
But more than that I would like one to be mine. Just mine. Okay, I'm scaring myself a little bit, but I think you know what I mean. That one that knows the real me. The one I can cry with, laugh (really laugh, you know, the pee your pants kind) with, go on play dates with and even "couple dates."
Sure, I still have friends from my old church, but things are different now. I don't see them anymore. I'm not looking to replace them, just add to my bucket. So, if I'm willing to add new friends to my life does that mean that others are too? If I still have room in my heart for another friend or two, does that mean they have a little room in their heart for me too?
Monday, August 27, 2012
Be
I came across this song this morning. Selah is one of my absolute favorite christian artists.
I couldn't help but notice how appropriate it is to my previous post about the apostle Paul. It's truly touching. I hope you enjoy.
Happy Monday!!
I couldn't help but notice how appropriate it is to my previous post about the apostle Paul. It's truly touching. I hope you enjoy.
Happy Monday!!
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Powerful Words
I just love Sunday's don't you? We are truly blessed to live in an area where there are many many great churches. Real churches. I happen to think that my family attends one of the best around.
I was really touched this morning not only in the sermon, but also in the music worship. So many talented people!! Makes me jealous, but glad that I can be spiritually fed through them.
Our Pastor has been speaking and just today finished in the book of Acts. We've been learning about the apostle Paul and his journey and sacrifice for Jesus Christ. I think the following verse sums up Paul's life.
I was really touched this morning not only in the sermon, but also in the music worship. So many talented people!! Makes me jealous, but glad that I can be spiritually fed through them.
Our Pastor has been speaking and just today finished in the book of Acts. We've been learning about the apostle Paul and his journey and sacrifice for Jesus Christ. I think the following verse sums up Paul's life.
Philippians 1:21
For to me to live is Christ
and to die is gain.
Wow!! I have always been able to understand the "to die is gain," but to get to the "for me to live is Christ" that is the hard part.
Our lives are not to be about us. They are to be all about Him. Oh I already know this, but still fail. Miserably. This verse and message today struck a cord with me. How does one get to that point in their life? The point where we are fully living for Christ? Like the apostle Paul.
I guess we can look to I Corinthians 15:31b for help.
I die daily.
Simply put. It's dying to ourselves. Simply put, but hard to do.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
The Help
Happy Saturday Night.
Well, with my husband out of
There are few "words" in the movie. **I don't know why they have to put language in movies. Drives me nuts.** Despite this I must say I have throughly enjoyed the movie.
The movie is so well done. One minute you're crying and the next laughing. Anything I can say wouldn't do it justice. This is not a christian movie. There was no Bible lesson, no teaching, preaching or scripture reading. There was however one BIG valuable lesson to be learned. And that is LOVE.
Can't say anymore. Just go see it.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Why blog?
This is a question I have found myself asking now for quite some time. Why do I blog? Why do you blog? Why does anyone blog? I'm not really sure yet why I do. I hope if you are reading this and you have a blog that you know why you blog.
Is it because I want people to know me and see how I live? No, I don't think so. If you haven't noticed I haven't even posted a photo of myself on this here blog. (ahem Bevy, I see you noticed.) Anyway, I am a very private sort of person. It's not that I want to keep secrets from people, more that I don't think people really care what is going on in my life or others for that matter. I don't even have a facebook account. Do people really care what others are doing every moment of the day? Or, is it just plain nosiness? I don't know, just sending out the question.
Do I blog because I have something really important to say that everyone needs to hear? No, that can't be it either, because I really don't have much that is worthy of hearing. I really am just learning life as I go. You would think at the age of ....nevermind let's just say at my age I should have a lot more figured out by now.
I once saw on another persons blog something about how she was trying to pick up traffic on her blog. I found myself asking why? I'm not really sure I want to "grow" my blog, if you know what I mean. Because with a bigger audience becomes more pressure right? And as a working mother, wife, sister, daughter and on the list goes, I certainly don't need any added pressure. So, if that is the case than why blog?
I guess the real reason I started this blog was for my boys. I am not a very talkative person...usually. What I mean by that is, I don't tend to share my feelings outwardly. I am not very affectionate either. Don't tend to give a lot of hugs and kisses. Wow, I just aired a lot of my dirty laundry on the world-wide-web. Oh wait, nobody reads my blog anyway. Shew!! I'm good. : ]
Anyway, back to the topic of discussion here. I guess my hope is that someday my boys will want to read this blog and in doing so will see inside of my heart those things I was never able/willing to share. Good and bad. And know how I felt and what I was thinking.
So, while my blog may grow I will still be here spilling out my thoughts. And while no one cares, I'll still do it. For them. After all, they are pretty much the reason I do everything I do.
So, tell me why you blog.
Is it because I want people to know me and see how I live? No, I don't think so. If you haven't noticed I haven't even posted a photo of myself on this here blog. (ahem Bevy, I see you noticed.) Anyway, I am a very private sort of person. It's not that I want to keep secrets from people, more that I don't think people really care what is going on in my life or others for that matter. I don't even have a facebook account. Do people really care what others are doing every moment of the day? Or, is it just plain nosiness? I don't know, just sending out the question.
Do I blog because I have something really important to say that everyone needs to hear? No, that can't be it either, because I really don't have much that is worthy of hearing. I really am just learning life as I go. You would think at the age of ....nevermind let's just say at my age I should have a lot more figured out by now.
I once saw on another persons blog something about how she was trying to pick up traffic on her blog. I found myself asking why? I'm not really sure I want to "grow" my blog, if you know what I mean. Because with a bigger audience becomes more pressure right? And as a working mother, wife, sister, daughter and on the list goes, I certainly don't need any added pressure. So, if that is the case than why blog?
I guess the real reason I started this blog was for my boys. I am not a very talkative person...usually. What I mean by that is, I don't tend to share my feelings outwardly. I am not very affectionate either. Don't tend to give a lot of hugs and kisses. Wow, I just aired a lot of my dirty laundry on the world-wide-web. Oh wait, nobody reads my blog anyway. Shew!! I'm good. : ]
Anyway, back to the topic of discussion here. I guess my hope is that someday my boys will want to read this blog and in doing so will see inside of my heart those things I was never able/willing to share. Good and bad. And know how I felt and what I was thinking.
So, while my blog may grow I will still be here spilling out my thoughts. And while no one cares, I'll still do it. For them. After all, they are pretty much the reason I do everything I do.
So, tell me why you blog.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
What's in a name?
I am going to try to revive this 'ol blog of mine. I have had so many things going on in my head, but just couldn't get them on "paper." I know what you're thinking, "this is a post about how a person "fits" their name, or why they were given a name." Well, I'm sorry to say you are incorrect. This is just something I haven't been able to let go, so I thought it must be worthy of a post. We'll see.
Anyway, I overheard a conversation last week between a father and his son. It was slightly disheartning. I don't know this particular family very well yet, and may be a little presumptuous in my thoughts. I'll give a quick version. This boy made a comment about someone calling him a name, and his father said something to the affect of "I'm glad I don't call you that." The son went on to say to his father that he did call him a name. Mind you, this is not even a word I use, let alone call my child it. Well, the step-mom went on to tell him what the word means, but we all know the father never intended that to be the purpose behind the name. To end the conversation (or atleast what portion I heard) his father went on to say that his son was too sensitive and needed to stop taking him to heart.
That's the part that got me. Here is this boy basically asking his dad not to call him a certain name, and his father tells him to stop being sensitive. Let me ask, is it okay to call someone a name as long as it doesn't hurt their feelings? This is a conversation I had with my husband last week. I have been told that I am too sensitive to other peoples thoughts and opinions. Another question, do I need to stop being sensitive and feeling hurt, so that the other person can have the freedom to state their thoughts?
As someone who is sensitive and hurt rather easily, I tend to bite my tongue when I sometimes so desperately want to say something. Something I know could/would hurt someone else. I can't imagine deliberately bringing pain to another individual. And then, telling them to stop being sensitive to my hurtful words.
I just wish people understood the power of words. Both good and bad. They can have a lasting impression on someone, and I'll add, if said enough those words could start to be believed.
Maybe we do need to be less sensitive, not to give others "freedom of speech" but because we as christians aren't to fear others, only God. In other words, it's only important what God thinks of me and not others. Right? Then why do we take it to heart?
Maybe the kids have it right. "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me."
Anyway, I overheard a conversation last week between a father and his son. It was slightly disheartning. I don't know this particular family very well yet, and may be a little presumptuous in my thoughts. I'll give a quick version. This boy made a comment about someone calling him a name, and his father said something to the affect of "I'm glad I don't call you that." The son went on to say to his father that he did call him a name. Mind you, this is not even a word I use, let alone call my child it. Well, the step-mom went on to tell him what the word means, but we all know the father never intended that to be the purpose behind the name. To end the conversation (or atleast what portion I heard) his father went on to say that his son was too sensitive and needed to stop taking him to heart.
That's the part that got me. Here is this boy basically asking his dad not to call him a certain name, and his father tells him to stop being sensitive. Let me ask, is it okay to call someone a name as long as it doesn't hurt their feelings? This is a conversation I had with my husband last week. I have been told that I am too sensitive to other peoples thoughts and opinions. Another question, do I need to stop being sensitive and feeling hurt, so that the other person can have the freedom to state their thoughts?
As someone who is sensitive and hurt rather easily, I tend to bite my tongue when I sometimes so desperately want to say something. Something I know could/would hurt someone else. I can't imagine deliberately bringing pain to another individual. And then, telling them to stop being sensitive to my hurtful words.
I just wish people understood the power of words. Both good and bad. They can have a lasting impression on someone, and I'll add, if said enough those words could start to be believed.
Maybe we do need to be less sensitive, not to give others "freedom of speech" but because we as christians aren't to fear others, only God. In other words, it's only important what God thinks of me and not others. Right? Then why do we take it to heart?
Maybe the kids have it right. "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me."
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
A recipe: Homemade Granola
A few years ago a friend of mine made this granola for a morning MOPS meeting. It was so delicious and she graciously shared her recipe with me. Well, lately I've been getting a hankerin for some granola. Here is what you need:
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Mix together the oil and honey. This can be a little tricky because the honey does not incorporate well with the oil, but it doesn't matter. Trust me, if I can make it work, you can!!
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Spread the mixture onto a cookie sheet.
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There you have it. Homemade Granola!! *You can change the cooking time based on how brown you like yours. Just remember to stir every so often.
Enjoy!!
Homemade Granola
4 cups Old Fashioned Oats
2 cups coconut
1 cup sliced nuts
3/4 cup oil
1/2 cup honey
Stir together the oats, coconut and nuts. (I used about 3/4c sliced almonds and 1/4c sunflower seeds. Just use your favorite, or what you have on hand.)
Mix together the oil and honey. This can be a little tricky because the honey does not incorporate well with the oil, but it doesn't matter. Trust me, if I can make it work, you can!!
Next, you pour the wet ingredients over the dry and mix together till coated well.
Spread the mixture onto a cookie sheet.
Bake in a 350 degree oven for 15 minutes. Stir and return to oven for 15 more minutes.
There you have it. Homemade Granola!! *You can change the cooking time based on how brown you like yours. Just remember to stir every so often.
Enjoy!!
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Blogland
I am amazed at the power of blogland. One short year ago, if you would have asked me about blogs I wouldn't have known of any, or even knew what they were. But, I started reading the blog of a real-life friend and needless to say, I was hooked. I am now a blog follower. I love to read what is going on in others lives. The strange thing is, I can see a little of myself in almost all of the blogs I read.
It's funny how I've never met any of them (ahem, except you Bevy) and I feel as though I know them personally. I find myself pulling out the computer when I have a free minute to check on my "friends." Most of them don't even know I exist, as I'm not "officially" following them, or if I am, I'm just a little blog and another name on their list of numerous followers. I am ok with that, I like to blend in and not really make my presence known.
I have discovered in these few short blogging months just how much I've come to lean on my fellow bloggers. For those bloggers that are the crafty DIYers, they are a great distraction to the real of life and an inspiration to make my home a little better. The blogger mommies of little ones, their writings take me back to those baby days of my own. Oh how I wish I could have those days back. Than there are the fashionista bloggers, boy am I jealous, but they have opened my eyes to many things I didn't know about fashion and beauty.
But, I must admit, in my heart of hearts that the bloggers who share their life through the pages and pictures in their blogs are my favorite. I've learned so much from them and have found so very many words of encouragement from each of them.
At a time in my life when I'm transitioning from something old into something new (and sort of scary) these "friends", all of them have been just what this girl has needed. I wish I could send a big hug to all of you out there, and thank you for being my friend.
So, from this little blogger to you. Thank you!
It's funny how I've never met any of them (ahem, except you Bevy) and I feel as though I know them personally. I find myself pulling out the computer when I have a free minute to check on my "friends." Most of them don't even know I exist, as I'm not "officially" following them, or if I am, I'm just a little blog and another name on their list of numerous followers. I am ok with that, I like to blend in and not really make my presence known.
I have discovered in these few short blogging months just how much I've come to lean on my fellow bloggers. For those bloggers that are the crafty DIYers, they are a great distraction to the real of life and an inspiration to make my home a little better. The blogger mommies of little ones, their writings take me back to those baby days of my own. Oh how I wish I could have those days back. Than there are the fashionista bloggers, boy am I jealous, but they have opened my eyes to many things I didn't know about fashion and beauty.
But, I must admit, in my heart of hearts that the bloggers who share their life through the pages and pictures in their blogs are my favorite. I've learned so much from them and have found so very many words of encouragement from each of them.
At a time in my life when I'm transitioning from something old into something new (and sort of scary) these "friends", all of them have been just what this girl has needed. I wish I could send a big hug to all of you out there, and thank you for being my friend.
So, from this little blogger to you. Thank you!
Sunday, June 24, 2012
A sunken ship
A few weekends ago we were down in Baltimore visiting some family. I mentioned it here. It was a rather quick trip, but I was excited as we were going to be going out on their boat. It was to be a quick ride, so we got the kids all geared up and the men went to ready the boat.
This would be my first time on a boat like this. Most of our time is spent in a small fishing boat just big enough to hold our family...and nothing else. I was excited. We all were excited. Until...there was trouble. The men spent quite some time trying to get it going, but it turns out the battery died. Bummer! We were slightly disappointed, but were promised a ride on our next trip down in July.
Well, it doesn't look like that will be happening now either. You see, what happened is this, they got the battery replaced and loaded up the boat with some friends of theirs and hit the water. Now, you must know that they live on the Chesapeake Bay. This is not a man-made lake that I'm most accustomed to. Well, anyway, while out on the water, a seal in the motor went bad and they took on water. In six minutes the boat sank to the bottom of the Chesapeake. Yep, you read that right, it sank.
Everyone made it off ok and were picked up by a passing sail boat. The coast guard has since pulled it out of the water and it is now considered a total loss. They are looking to replace it, and I must admit I hope they do so before our trip back down.
Is it me, or is that just crazy? I mean, how often do boats sink like that? And to think, that could have been us. I am soooo glad that the battery failed that day and I did not have to endure a ride on a sinking ship.
This would be my first time on a boat like this. Most of our time is spent in a small fishing boat just big enough to hold our family...and nothing else. I was excited. We all were excited. Until...there was trouble. The men spent quite some time trying to get it going, but it turns out the battery died. Bummer! We were slightly disappointed, but were promised a ride on our next trip down in July.
Well, it doesn't look like that will be happening now either. You see, what happened is this, they got the battery replaced and loaded up the boat with some friends of theirs and hit the water. Now, you must know that they live on the Chesapeake Bay. This is not a man-made lake that I'm most accustomed to. Well, anyway, while out on the water, a seal in the motor went bad and they took on water. In six minutes the boat sank to the bottom of the Chesapeake. Yep, you read that right, it sank.
Everyone made it off ok and were picked up by a passing sail boat. The coast guard has since pulled it out of the water and it is now considered a total loss. They are looking to replace it, and I must admit I hope they do so before our trip back down.
Is it me, or is that just crazy? I mean, how often do boats sink like that? And to think, that could have been us. I am soooo glad that the battery failed that day and I did not have to endure a ride on a sinking ship.
Monday, June 11, 2012
The house no one wanted
This past weekend we visited Andy's cousins home in Maryland. It's a sort-of resort for our family. They live in a very quiet community with many amenities. And waterfront!!
Just steps (literally steps) away from the waterfront there is a house. A house yes, a home...not so much.
The "story" is, that this house has stood empty for some 25 odd years. That's a long time. No one has stepped foot in there. It is said that the furniture is still there and if you look in the windows, there are knick-knacks on the window sill. If you look closely, you can see the curtains still hanging in the windows.
Who does this? Who walks away from a home? I have been trying to wrap my head around it, but I just can't. Every house has a story. If walls could talk they would tell of days gone by. They would show you their scars, the pencil markings of children growing. The holes from pictures and drawings moved over the years. The floors show their age. The dents and dings, the stains and the knicks. Even the creakings that they feel.
Not this house. It has no story. No one to tend to it. No one to give it love. No one to pull in the driveway, no sign marking it "Home Sweet Home." In fact, it is in such a state of disrepair, that it will need to be demolished. It seems such a waste to me. Knock down the old to make way for the new.
I love old houses. I always have. My preference is not to buy a new home, but one that is old. Like that comfortable old quilt thrown over the couch, or the old t-shirt that you just keep wearing. When we're comfortable, we're happy. Myold used home is comfortable and makes me happy. Someday I hope this home will have someone to love it. Someone who will make memories and give it a story. One to make it proud, instead of the sad forgotten building it is.
Just steps (literally steps) away from the waterfront there is a house. A house yes, a home...not so much.
The "story" is, that this house has stood empty for some 25 odd years. That's a long time. No one has stepped foot in there. It is said that the furniture is still there and if you look in the windows, there are knick-knacks on the window sill. If you look closely, you can see the curtains still hanging in the windows.
Who does this? Who walks away from a home? I have been trying to wrap my head around it, but I just can't. Every house has a story. If walls could talk they would tell of days gone by. They would show you their scars, the pencil markings of children growing. The holes from pictures and drawings moved over the years. The floors show their age. The dents and dings, the stains and the knicks. Even the creakings that they feel.
Not this house. It has no story. No one to tend to it. No one to give it love. No one to pull in the driveway, no sign marking it "Home Sweet Home." In fact, it is in such a state of disrepair, that it will need to be demolished. It seems such a waste to me. Knock down the old to make way for the new.
I love old houses. I always have. My preference is not to buy a new home, but one that is old. Like that comfortable old quilt thrown over the couch, or the old t-shirt that you just keep wearing. When we're comfortable, we're happy. My
Monday, June 4, 2012
The land of "in-between"
Last night we had the pleasure of attending church. We haven't done so in years as the church we currently attend no longer holds Sunday evening service. Let me just say, it was wonderful. I sang a song (a hymn) I hadn't sung for a long time. It was quite refreshing.
A missionary was the guest speaker and his message was written for us. That's right, just us. No one else. Okay, so maybe not, but you get the point. He spoke about the Isrealites and their time in the wilderness. The land of in-between.
My husband nudged me and we chuckled as we are definately in the land of in-between. It's not a fun place to be. There is fear there. There are questions and doubts. There is discontentment and frustration. It's not all bad. There is also excitement and a sense of a "starting over."
Well, God used this message as a means of encouragement to me. In the fear and doubt, He asks "Do you trust me? Do you trust me?"...Do I? I mean I say I do, but this is one of those things that I have to really really trust that what we are doing is His will.
The Isrealites wandered for 40 years in the land of in-between. They complained. So did I...Ouch. I'm no different than them. But one thing I'm so glad about is that in God's grace He did not allow us to wander for 40 years.
It's just awesome because we see Him continually reassuring us to trust Him and follow His will. And last night was one of those cases. The whole service was just refreshing and spiritually uplifting. I am just so glad we felt His nudge and went to church. And even more, I'm so glad he sent the missionary as His tool to speak to our hearts.
A missionary was the guest speaker and his message was written for us. That's right, just us. No one else. Okay, so maybe not, but you get the point. He spoke about the Isrealites and their time in the wilderness. The land of in-between.
My husband nudged me and we chuckled as we are definately in the land of in-between. It's not a fun place to be. There is fear there. There are questions and doubts. There is discontentment and frustration. It's not all bad. There is also excitement and a sense of a "starting over."
Well, God used this message as a means of encouragement to me. In the fear and doubt, He asks "Do you trust me? Do you trust me?"...Do I? I mean I say I do, but this is one of those things that I have to really really trust that what we are doing is His will.
The Isrealites wandered for 40 years in the land of in-between. They complained. So did I...Ouch. I'm no different than them. But one thing I'm so glad about is that in God's grace He did not allow us to wander for 40 years.
It's just awesome because we see Him continually reassuring us to trust Him and follow His will. And last night was one of those cases. The whole service was just refreshing and spiritually uplifting. I am just so glad we felt His nudge and went to church. And even more, I'm so glad he sent the missionary as His tool to speak to our hearts.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Happy Memorial Day!
Just popping in to wish you a Happy Memorial Day. I hope your day brings good food, time with family, and lots of fun.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Giving Thanks
If you've seen my sidebar than you know that I'm reading the book "One Thousand Gifts." It is taking me forever, but I am glad about that. There is so much to gleen from the pages of that book.
It has been stirring me up inside and in my way of thinking. I love it. I have this friend to thank.
Anyway, I just wanted to express what I'm thankful for right now. Right this moment.
*Fresh air.
*Sunshine
*Clothes hanging on the line.
*Getting home in time to get the clothes off the line when the rain came.
*Rain
*Flowers
*Sadie (my dog and probably the most loyal companion in my life.)
*5th grade projects (getting done)
*A night out
*Watching my neices play soccer
*Sarah
*My front porch
*Nighttime Walks
*Windshield wipers that work
*This house...I mean, our HOME.
*Hot running water
*Joy in trials
*Being loved
*Having someone to love
*Fresh sheets
*My bed
*Reading blogs and feeling so overwhelmed by the message they bring.
*Christian fiction
*New sneakers
*My cell phone. So I can talk to my husband who is out of town...again.
*Mom, helping with my boys
Okay, so I could go on and on. I have been following the Nester. She is currently in Tanzania with Compassion. Her recent posts have me realizing just how blessed, how much God has given me. I'm overflowing with goodness and just had to share some of it.
Before I end this post I want to share this new awesome song. You can't help but feel gratitude.
Enjoy.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Our new (used) coffee table
I have been on the search for a new coffee table for our living room. I recently found this baby at a local thrift store.
I'm sorry to say that I had already begun to sand it, so I don't have the original "before" picture. : [ It had what some would call "good bones." It's solid wood and the size was perfect. I also loved the style. When I brought it home my husband was less than impressed. Usually he can see potential. I don't know what he didn't see. Anyhoo, I spent a lot of time sanding, sanding and sanding some more. What you can't see in the picture is the finish. It was a thick thick stain of a reddish color all over. Not quite what I wanted.
I had all of the supplies I needed on hand. Wasn't a real complicated job. Just time consuming. Waiting between coats of paint and stain. Spent more time waiting than doing the work. : ]
So, here is the finished product.
I am pleased. We finally have a real "grown-up" coffee table.
So when are you coming over for some coffee to put on my coffee table?
Linking up with Traci at Beneath My Heart for her April "linky" party and with Richella at Imparting Grace for her Grace at home series.
I'm sorry to say that I had already begun to sand it, so I don't have the original "before" picture. : [ It had what some would call "good bones." It's solid wood and the size was perfect. I also loved the style. When I brought it home my husband was less than impressed. Usually he can see potential. I don't know what he didn't see. Anyhoo, I spent a lot of time sanding, sanding and sanding some more. What you can't see in the picture is the finish. It was a thick thick stain of a reddish color all over. Not quite what I wanted.
I had all of the supplies I needed on hand. Wasn't a real complicated job. Just time consuming. Waiting between coats of paint and stain. Spent more time waiting than doing the work. : ]
So, here is the finished product.
I am pleased. We finally have a real "grown-up" coffee table.
So when are you coming over for some coffee to put on my coffee table?
Linking up with Traci at Beneath My Heart for her April "linky" party and with Richella at Imparting Grace for her Grace at home series.
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