It's been a while since I've posted. This past year has been interesting - to say the least. But with all the ups and downs that have come throughout the year, there is one lesson that I've learned that seems to always be applicable.
Live life to the fullest!
Embrace each day.
We are blessed with each new day.
We need to embrace it.
Live each day and live it out loud.
Don't waste your life.
I've noticed that I have become rather negative. For what?! It's not productive or useful in anyway. So what if I dread something I may have to do, so what if my to-do list is a mile long, so what if I spend a lot of time working, ... so what?! I have been blessed with each day that I am given. I need to recognize that and take advantage of it. Our perspective can completely change our attitude.
Yes, there are chores, jobs, tasks that I don't like to do. But I need to be thankful that I have clothes to wear and thus have laundry to do. I need to be thankful that there is food to eat and thus dishes to wash (even though I really dislike hand washing dishes). I need to be thankful that we have a house and thus rooms and floors to clean. I need to be thankful that I have the opportunity to do so many different things and thus a to-do list that can grow rather lengthy at times. I need to be thankful that I have a job (all of my jobs) and thus the occasional stress that can come with any job.
So my goal is to daily change my perspective.
Be thankful. Love others. Serve others. Live life.
Life is too short to not live each day to the fullest.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Getting Organized
Well, if you know anything about me, you should know that I love for things to be organized. For example, in the house (and in the classroom), everything has a home - and should be there. So during some of my "free time" this summer, I have been working on getting more organized... at home (with some ideas from The Nest Effect) and in the classroom (with ideas from different places, mainly courtesy of Pinterest).
Now, I do love to be organized. But occasionally, it can overtake my brain. For example, we went to the store last night to pick up some t-shirts to decorate. As we were walking around, I noticed the school supplies had started coming out. My brain thinks... hey, I need a binder and dividers for the Home Management Binder... ooh, and they have the paper folders that I want to use for make-up work... how much are they... would it be too expensive for me to purchase enough folders for each student... let me check the math... Needless to say, I walked out of the store with a binder, dividers, and 90 folders... along with some other items.
I hope to share with you (more later) how I set up my Home Management Binder and how useful it will be in real life. But, if you want ideas now, check out The Nest Effect. She has all types of checklists and forms and what not - for finances, cleaning, shopping, health, etc.
Disclaimer: When I told my husband about this idea, he made me make a promise. I cannot be frustrated or upset when I do not accomplish everything on my checklists. I promised. And I told him, if I do become frustrated you can remind me of this promise and tell me to get over it. :)
Lists help me. However, there are times I worry too much over accomplishing the list and forget to be thankful for everything that I did accomplish, even if there are some items not marked off. It's all good. These checklists will hopefully help me to remember things that I need to do and/or when I last did them - especially with cleaning the house... some things should be done weekly, monthly, or seasonally... I won't be able to remember when I last did something.
I will go ahead and share how I plan to use those 90 folders in my classroom. I teach high school math on a block schedule. So I usually have about 30 students in a class and teach 3 classes. The folders are paper folders with two pockets (no brads). I will use them for their make-up work. Hopefully, it will help my students to keep up with their work and remember to turn it back in. How it'll be set up:
on the front cover - a label with the student's name and "Math Work"
on the left pocket - a label with "Work To Do"
on the right pocket - a label with "Work Completed"
When students are absent or have assignments missing in the gradebook, I'll get their work together and put it in the left pocket of their folder. They'll get their folder when they are back in my class... complete their work (hopefully) and move it to the right pocket. Then they will turn their folder into the basket "Please Grade". I hope this system will help keep make-up work more organized for my students. It should help me as well since all make-up work will be in their folders and not mixed in with the current assignments. I'll have to follow up with you after school gets underway.
Until next time,
I'll leave you with a thought...
Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the Lord’s decree will prevail.
Proverbs 19:21 (HCSB)
Now, I do love to be organized. But occasionally, it can overtake my brain. For example, we went to the store last night to pick up some t-shirts to decorate. As we were walking around, I noticed the school supplies had started coming out. My brain thinks... hey, I need a binder and dividers for the Home Management Binder... ooh, and they have the paper folders that I want to use for make-up work... how much are they... would it be too expensive for me to purchase enough folders for each student... let me check the math... Needless to say, I walked out of the store with a binder, dividers, and 90 folders... along with some other items.
I hope to share with you (more later) how I set up my Home Management Binder and how useful it will be in real life. But, if you want ideas now, check out The Nest Effect. She has all types of checklists and forms and what not - for finances, cleaning, shopping, health, etc.
Disclaimer: When I told my husband about this idea, he made me make a promise. I cannot be frustrated or upset when I do not accomplish everything on my checklists. I promised. And I told him, if I do become frustrated you can remind me of this promise and tell me to get over it. :)
Lists help me. However, there are times I worry too much over accomplishing the list and forget to be thankful for everything that I did accomplish, even if there are some items not marked off. It's all good. These checklists will hopefully help me to remember things that I need to do and/or when I last did them - especially with cleaning the house... some things should be done weekly, monthly, or seasonally... I won't be able to remember when I last did something.
I will go ahead and share how I plan to use those 90 folders in my classroom. I teach high school math on a block schedule. So I usually have about 30 students in a class and teach 3 classes. The folders are paper folders with two pockets (no brads). I will use them for their make-up work. Hopefully, it will help my students to keep up with their work and remember to turn it back in. How it'll be set up:
on the front cover - a label with the student's name and "Math Work"
on the left pocket - a label with "Work To Do"
on the right pocket - a label with "Work Completed"
When students are absent or have assignments missing in the gradebook, I'll get their work together and put it in the left pocket of their folder. They'll get their folder when they are back in my class... complete their work (hopefully) and move it to the right pocket. Then they will turn their folder into the basket "Please Grade". I hope this system will help keep make-up work more organized for my students. It should help me as well since all make-up work will be in their folders and not mixed in with the current assignments. I'll have to follow up with you after school gets underway.
Until next time,
I'll leave you with a thought...
Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the Lord’s decree will prevail.
Proverbs 19:21 (HCSB)
Friday, June 29, 2012
Summer: slow down!
It is hard to believe that I have been home from Belize for about two weeks now. Where has the time gone?! Summer, please don't run away!!
On a more positive note though, I am accomplishing some tasks on my summer list...
Spend time with Family and Friends | I love catching up with people and just enjoying life together. Corey's aunt and uncle came and stayed with us for a week - such a blessing! I got to catch up with one of my friends from high school the other day ~ lunch at McAlister's [yum!] and some shopping for projects [curtains and paints for her, scrapbook stuff for me]. I also got to see a lot of my family recently... My great-great-aunt passed away Tuesday morning... It is sad to see her go, but it is comforting because she is no longer in pain. And I was able to go with my cousin to see our family. I'm looking forward to more time with family and friends as we celebrate our country this next week.
Wedding Scrapbook | The goal has finally been started... well continued. I started shortly after our wedding collecting some pictures and items I would want included. This past week I finally started putting the scrapbook together. It has been fun to think back to the days of just friends, dating, engagement, and the wedding. Maybe I can finish it this summer! After all, there are plenty of other pictures and events that need to make their way into a scrapbook soon too.
Classes Next Year | Yes, it is only June. Yes, I have started working on school stuff for next year. Now, don't get too worried, I've only spent about half a day on school stuff so far. There is much more I want to get done before August though. It's just hard to focus on school in June.
Update Pictures | I am still working on this one. We still have several pictures/frames that we need to hang. I want to try to put more pictures of family and friends in some of those frames though. I don't want just our faces all over the house. lol
Read Books | I haven't read much since my last post. There's been way too much running around for all of that.
Clean House | Our house is half-way decent, at least to me. No, it's not sparkling clean or perfect or anything. But, mostly everything has a place. And for the most part the house has stayed fairly clean day-to-day... bed made, dishes washed and put away, things picked up, etc. And, I must say, I'm loving it! I also love that we're accomplishing some of our "bigger" house projects. There are still many things we want to do, but it is such a blessing to be able to get some things done.
Summer Sun | The summer sun got me pretty good yesterday while I was mowing. So today I have stayed inside or in the shade as much as possible. However, this evening my goal is to finish the lawn... hopefully the sun will be down or close to it! My sunburned legs are not very appreciative right now. My fair skin must lather up in sunscreen! :)
Well, I'm going to quit boring you now... and let you enjoy some pictures from Belize.
It was such a blessing to serve in Belize - a beautiful country with some amazing people!!
Hopefully, my next post will be a little more focused and a little less random.
Until next time,
Enjoy summer!!
On a more positive note though, I am accomplishing some tasks on my summer list...
Spend time with Family and Friends | I love catching up with people and just enjoying life together. Corey's aunt and uncle came and stayed with us for a week - such a blessing! I got to catch up with one of my friends from high school the other day ~ lunch at McAlister's [yum!] and some shopping for projects [curtains and paints for her, scrapbook stuff for me]. I also got to see a lot of my family recently... My great-great-aunt passed away Tuesday morning... It is sad to see her go, but it is comforting because she is no longer in pain. And I was able to go with my cousin to see our family. I'm looking forward to more time with family and friends as we celebrate our country this next week.
Wedding Scrapbook | The goal has finally been started... well continued. I started shortly after our wedding collecting some pictures and items I would want included. This past week I finally started putting the scrapbook together. It has been fun to think back to the days of just friends, dating, engagement, and the wedding. Maybe I can finish it this summer! After all, there are plenty of other pictures and events that need to make their way into a scrapbook soon too.
Classes Next Year | Yes, it is only June. Yes, I have started working on school stuff for next year. Now, don't get too worried, I've only spent about half a day on school stuff so far. There is much more I want to get done before August though. It's just hard to focus on school in June.
Update Pictures | I am still working on this one. We still have several pictures/frames that we need to hang. I want to try to put more pictures of family and friends in some of those frames though. I don't want just our faces all over the house. lol
Read Books | I haven't read much since my last post. There's been way too much running around for all of that.
Clean House | Our house is half-way decent, at least to me. No, it's not sparkling clean or perfect or anything. But, mostly everything has a place. And for the most part the house has stayed fairly clean day-to-day... bed made, dishes washed and put away, things picked up, etc. And, I must say, I'm loving it! I also love that we're accomplishing some of our "bigger" house projects. There are still many things we want to do, but it is such a blessing to be able to get some things done.
Summer Sun | The summer sun got me pretty good yesterday while I was mowing. So today I have stayed inside or in the shade as much as possible. However, this evening my goal is to finish the lawn... hopefully the sun will be down or close to it! My sunburned legs are not very appreciative right now. My fair skin must lather up in sunscreen! :)
Well, I'm going to quit boring you now... and let you enjoy some pictures from Belize.
our group
glass bottom boat - you could see the fish, sharks, sting rays, etc swimming beneath
Snorkeling - seeing God's beautiful creation
Mayan Ruins - Altun Ha
Embassy Mission Hotel - our residence for the week
Hanging out at "The Blue Hole"
Spreading gravel at the church to help prevent flooding.
It was such a blessing to serve in Belize - a beautiful country with some amazing people!!
Hopefully, my next post will be a little more focused and a little less random.
Until next time,
Enjoy summer!!
Saturday, June 23, 2012
My Thoughts on Books
Over the past couple of months I have had time to read since I've been traveling here and there. I have finished two books recently... The Help by Kathryn Stockett and Fools Rush In by Janice Thompson. So I thought I would share some of my thoughts on these reads.
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
I began reading this book back in September. Our school had a reading initiative this past year to encourage our students to read. Teachers were asked to help out by reading along with the students and having a "book talk" at the end of each month. I thought it was a great idea; unfortunately I did not succeed very well. In August, I read a book by John Grisham (The Testament) and shared about it. In September, I didn't have time to complete a book so I pulled another book that I had read off the shelf and shared it (The Dream Giver by Bruce Wilkinson). I also decided to start reading The Help in September so that I could share about it in October. Unfortunately I did not have the time to read. I was too busy working on teacher stuff (planning, grading, preparing), tutoring, helping lead at church, trying to spend time with family and friends... basically, life!
Well I have finally finished it. And it was a good read throughout. Being from the South, I could relate to the setting and even the story line. [Growing up in the South, you hear and learn a lot about the Civil Rights Movement and time period.] It was very easy for me to picture Jackson, MS and the way of life described in that time era. I know The Help is a fictional novel, but I think it gives a great perspective on how life could have been for some people during that time. I wasn't really fond of the ending. It was a good ending - don't get me wrong. I just wanted to keep reading. I had become 'absorbed' in the lives of these ladies. I was curious about the changes that were happening - the new adventures to come.
I am looking forward to seeing the movie. I'm sure the book will surpass the movie... they usually do. It would be impossible to squeeze everything from a book into a two hour movie. There are perks to reading instead of just watching movies. And, honestly, that's one of the reasons I decided to read this particular book. The movie came out with a lot of hype. I wanted to read the book before seeing the movie. Now that I've finally finished the book... maybe I can watch the movie this summer too!
Fools Rush In by Janice Thompson
I found this book on Amazon when I was looking for books to read on my Kindle. I had never read any of Janice Thompson's work before or heard about this book. The description caught my attention so I thought I'd give the book a chance. I'm glad I did.
This book was a fun read. It was filled with action, romance, love, challenges, friendship, and "normal every day life". It was fun to live in Bella's world... to experience living with a colorful (sometimes crazy) family, dealing with an annoying ex-boyfriend, falling in love - unexpectedly, running your own business, trying to prove that you can succeed - primarily to yourself, and much more. I hope the other books in this series are just as exciting... and that I don't take too long in getting around to reading them. :)
If I Was Jesus by Matt Chapman, JR Baker
This book is my current read. I just started it the other night. I am anxious to see how it goes and what I can draw from this book. Especially since I know the contributor to this book, JR Baker.
Well, I hope you've enjoyed these thoughts. But more importantly, I'd love to hear about what you're reading. I can add to my list of books to read. :)
Until next time,
When you find yourself with some downtime... pick up a book!
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
I began reading this book back in September. Our school had a reading initiative this past year to encourage our students to read. Teachers were asked to help out by reading along with the students and having a "book talk" at the end of each month. I thought it was a great idea; unfortunately I did not succeed very well. In August, I read a book by John Grisham (The Testament) and shared about it. In September, I didn't have time to complete a book so I pulled another book that I had read off the shelf and shared it (The Dream Giver by Bruce Wilkinson). I also decided to start reading The Help in September so that I could share about it in October. Unfortunately I did not have the time to read. I was too busy working on teacher stuff (planning, grading, preparing), tutoring, helping lead at church, trying to spend time with family and friends... basically, life!
Well I have finally finished it. And it was a good read throughout. Being from the South, I could relate to the setting and even the story line. [Growing up in the South, you hear and learn a lot about the Civil Rights Movement and time period.] It was very easy for me to picture Jackson, MS and the way of life described in that time era. I know The Help is a fictional novel, but I think it gives a great perspective on how life could have been for some people during that time. I wasn't really fond of the ending. It was a good ending - don't get me wrong. I just wanted to keep reading. I had become 'absorbed' in the lives of these ladies. I was curious about the changes that were happening - the new adventures to come.
I am looking forward to seeing the movie. I'm sure the book will surpass the movie... they usually do. It would be impossible to squeeze everything from a book into a two hour movie. There are perks to reading instead of just watching movies. And, honestly, that's one of the reasons I decided to read this particular book. The movie came out with a lot of hype. I wanted to read the book before seeing the movie. Now that I've finally finished the book... maybe I can watch the movie this summer too!
Fools Rush In by Janice Thompson
I found this book on Amazon when I was looking for books to read on my Kindle. I had never read any of Janice Thompson's work before or heard about this book. The description caught my attention so I thought I'd give the book a chance. I'm glad I did.
This book was a fun read. It was filled with action, romance, love, challenges, friendship, and "normal every day life". It was fun to live in Bella's world... to experience living with a colorful (sometimes crazy) family, dealing with an annoying ex-boyfriend, falling in love - unexpectedly, running your own business, trying to prove that you can succeed - primarily to yourself, and much more. I hope the other books in this series are just as exciting... and that I don't take too long in getting around to reading them. :)
If I Was Jesus by Matt Chapman, JR Baker
This book is my current read. I just started it the other night. I am anxious to see how it goes and what I can draw from this book. Especially since I know the contributor to this book, JR Baker.
Well, I hope you've enjoyed these thoughts. But more importantly, I'd love to hear about what you're reading. I can add to my list of books to read. :)
Until next time,
When you find yourself with some downtime... pick up a book!
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Catching Up
This week has been a week of catching up. Life has been busy since the last time I blogged.
First of all, I had the joy of hosting a BeautiControl Spa back at the beginning of the month. Some great ladies came over and we enjoyed being pampered. I am so glad I decided to set apart a night for relaxing with some good friends and family. And, don't worry, the husband enjoyed an afternoon of golfing and goofing off. :)
The next week was Vacation Bible School at our church. It was a fun week at Amazing Wonders Aviation! I had the honor and responsibility of leading the Missions class for the 1st-5th graders alongside my husband. It is fun and exciting to learn about missions around the world with the kids. It is even more encouraging when they recognize how they can do missions at home and how they can help others around the world through prayer and sending supplies. Such a blessing!
The next week (last week) I was out of the country on a mission trip. We went to Belize! There were 19 people on the mission team - a lot of different ages - children, middle school youth, high school graduates, college students, and various adults. Last week was amazing! Words cannot completely express everything from the week. So when I get my pictures off my camera, I will be sure to share. But there are a few things I want to share now...
* Creation is beautiful. God created every thing we see. In Belize, we saw the cities, the Caribbean Sea, the Cayes, the water, the animals, the plants, the countryside, the mountains, the woods, etc. Belize is a beautiful country. I love the outdoors. It's so exciting to see God's work... especially different countries.
* The people in Belize are very friendly. They speak English and live a lot like we do in the States. Many of the people in Brazil do struggle financially, but it doesn't seem to change their outlook on life. Nor should it. Our happiness/attitude should not be based in our material things. Rather we should overflow with Christ's love, joy, kindness. The Belizean people know about Jesus and God; however, not everyone has a relationship with Jesus - again, very much like the States. We were able to meet a lot of people throughout the week. Some for the week and others for only a moment, but each person was unique and able to teach/remind us.
* I was pushed to grow, to lead, to follow. We are responsible for certain things and it is important that we take care of our responsibilities - whether we're serving in a foreign country or living our day to day lives. It is such an encouragement to have others to push you, help you, and encourage you as you go through life. I'm so thankful for the team that went as well as the people we met in Belize.
** As I said before, pictures from Belize will be coming soon (hopefully). As I share the pictures, I also hope to share a little bit more about the trip.
This week I have been trying to catch up... on sleep, on laundry, on cleaning, on church, on school... you name it and I have probably tried to catch up a little bit. I am very thankful that I was able to sleep in earlier this week. My body was exhausted from the previous weeks.
Well, needless to say, I am glad to be back home... thankful for the opportunity to serve in Belize... hoping to blog more regularly this summer - among my various plans for the next month or so.
Until next time,
Be sure to relax and find rest in this craziness we call life!
First of all, I had the joy of hosting a BeautiControl Spa back at the beginning of the month. Some great ladies came over and we enjoyed being pampered. I am so glad I decided to set apart a night for relaxing with some good friends and family. And, don't worry, the husband enjoyed an afternoon of golfing and goofing off. :)
The next week was Vacation Bible School at our church. It was a fun week at Amazing Wonders Aviation! I had the honor and responsibility of leading the Missions class for the 1st-5th graders alongside my husband. It is fun and exciting to learn about missions around the world with the kids. It is even more encouraging when they recognize how they can do missions at home and how they can help others around the world through prayer and sending supplies. Such a blessing!
The next week (last week) I was out of the country on a mission trip. We went to Belize! There were 19 people on the mission team - a lot of different ages - children, middle school youth, high school graduates, college students, and various adults. Last week was amazing! Words cannot completely express everything from the week. So when I get my pictures off my camera, I will be sure to share. But there are a few things I want to share now...
* Creation is beautiful. God created every thing we see. In Belize, we saw the cities, the Caribbean Sea, the Cayes, the water, the animals, the plants, the countryside, the mountains, the woods, etc. Belize is a beautiful country. I love the outdoors. It's so exciting to see God's work... especially different countries.
* The people in Belize are very friendly. They speak English and live a lot like we do in the States. Many of the people in Brazil do struggle financially, but it doesn't seem to change their outlook on life. Nor should it. Our happiness/attitude should not be based in our material things. Rather we should overflow with Christ's love, joy, kindness. The Belizean people know about Jesus and God; however, not everyone has a relationship with Jesus - again, very much like the States. We were able to meet a lot of people throughout the week. Some for the week and others for only a moment, but each person was unique and able to teach/remind us.
* I was pushed to grow, to lead, to follow. We are responsible for certain things and it is important that we take care of our responsibilities - whether we're serving in a foreign country or living our day to day lives. It is such an encouragement to have others to push you, help you, and encourage you as you go through life. I'm so thankful for the team that went as well as the people we met in Belize.
** As I said before, pictures from Belize will be coming soon (hopefully). As I share the pictures, I also hope to share a little bit more about the trip.
This week I have been trying to catch up... on sleep, on laundry, on cleaning, on church, on school... you name it and I have probably tried to catch up a little bit. I am very thankful that I was able to sleep in earlier this week. My body was exhausted from the previous weeks.
Well, needless to say, I am glad to be back home... thankful for the opportunity to serve in Belize... hoping to blog more regularly this summer - among my various plans for the next month or so.
Until next time,
Be sure to relax and find rest in this craziness we call life!
Friday, June 1, 2012
Summer! [twenty-twelve]
My summer list of twenty-twelve!
- spend time with family and friends... build relationships...
- go to nephews ball games... been to one, hoping to catch some more...
- plan, decorate, and help with VBS [Amazing Wonders Aviation]
- go on trips... several exciting trips planned... post-trip details to follow!
- work out and get in better shape... I need to start exercising... oh to not be lazy...
- swim and maybe get a tan... enjoy the summer sun!
- make a painting for guest bath... "splish, splash, taking a bath"... not sure if I'll get this one done this summer, but it's staying on my list...
- create & complete wedding photo album... I really want to accomplish this one this summer!
- plan for classes next year... I think I can put this one off until July...
- update pictures on computer, in frames, etc.
- read books (finish The Help first)
- get the house cleaned and organized & keep it in order :)
I'm sure there are some things I'm forgetting...
Some highlights from the past week...
* Had a great time with lots of family over the holiday weekend ~ fish fry, lasagna, smoked chicken... yum ~ grandparents, aunts/uncles, cousins, parents, siblings, new nephew!
* Graduation for our high school seniors. This year I had the honor of making sure our Student Council kids greeted and passed out programs. Little did I know that this meant a lot of running around the building, waiting on kids to show up, and trying to make sure everything was covered. Needless to say, heels were a terrible choice. My feet were aching, blistered, and cut by the end of the night. I will not be wearing heels next year...
* A nice dinner at Red Lobster with the amazing husband!
* A fun girls night out to Olive Garden! Yum!
Here's to hoping that summer will be enjoyed and not a blur!!
- spend time with family and friends... build relationships...
- go to nephews ball games... been to one, hoping to catch some more...
- plan, decorate, and help with VBS [Amazing Wonders Aviation]
- go on trips... several exciting trips planned... post-trip details to follow!
- work out and get in better shape... I need to start exercising... oh to not be lazy...
- swim and maybe get a tan... enjoy the summer sun!
- make a painting for guest bath... "splish, splash, taking a bath"... not sure if I'll get this one done this summer, but it's staying on my list...
- create & complete wedding photo album... I really want to accomplish this one this summer!
- plan for classes next year... I think I can put this one off until July...
- update pictures on computer, in frames, etc.
- read books (finish The Help first)
- get the house cleaned and organized & keep it in order :)
I'm sure there are some things I'm forgetting...
Some highlights from the past week...
* Had a great time with lots of family over the holiday weekend ~ fish fry, lasagna, smoked chicken... yum ~ grandparents, aunts/uncles, cousins, parents, siblings, new nephew!
* Graduation for our high school seniors. This year I had the honor of making sure our Student Council kids greeted and passed out programs. Little did I know that this meant a lot of running around the building, waiting on kids to show up, and trying to make sure everything was covered. Needless to say, heels were a terrible choice. My feet were aching, blistered, and cut by the end of the night. I will not be wearing heels next year...
* A nice dinner at Red Lobster with the amazing husband!
* A fun girls night out to Olive Garden! Yum!
Here's to hoping that summer will be enjoyed and not a blur!!
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Smile
Well, I am back. Not because of anything cute or exciting that I have to share. Instead it is because of what someone said to me the other day. It went something like this...
You are a very pretty young lady. [side note: I was wearing jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt with my hair up in a bun] But you know what would be better - for you to smile. A smile would definitely brighten you and wherever you are.
Now, normally I am one to smile. I'm a pretty happy and easy-to-get-along-with person. However, when I get frustrated, stressed, and/or exhausted the smile tends to disappear. It's sad how quickly the smile disappears simply because I'm not in my best upbeat mood. My smile should stay - not because I want people to think I'm beautiful (believe me, I don't think I'm beautiful) or that I have it altogether - but my smile should stay because I am blessed beyond anything I deserve and beyond my expectations.
Today, give a stranger one of your smiles. It might be the only sunshine he sees all day.
~Quoted in P.S. I Love You
A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.
~Phyllis Diller
People seldom notice old clothes if you wear a big smile.
~Lee Mildon
A smile is an inexpensive way to change your looks.
~Charles Gordy
Everytime you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.
~Mother Teresa
The person who reminded me the other day that I need to smile more often is not the first person to comment on my smile. I guess I should take the hint... how important a smile is. Now if only I can remember to smile when I'm not at my best and to truly be grateful for all that I have, even when it's easier to focus on the negative (things that aren't going my way).
So I hope you have a wonderful week! Thank you for reading my ramblings. Remember to smile - even if you're having the worst day you can brighten someone else's!
Until next time,
Keep Smiling!
You are a very pretty young lady. [side note: I was wearing jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt with my hair up in a bun] But you know what would be better - for you to smile. A smile would definitely brighten you and wherever you are.
Now, normally I am one to smile. I'm a pretty happy and easy-to-get-along-with person. However, when I get frustrated, stressed, and/or exhausted the smile tends to disappear. It's sad how quickly the smile disappears simply because I'm not in my best upbeat mood. My smile should stay - not because I want people to think I'm beautiful (believe me, I don't think I'm beautiful) or that I have it altogether - but my smile should stay because I am blessed beyond anything I deserve and beyond my expectations.
Today, give a stranger one of your smiles. It might be the only sunshine he sees all day.
~Quoted in P.S. I Love You
A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.
~Phyllis Diller
People seldom notice old clothes if you wear a big smile.
~Lee Mildon
A smile is an inexpensive way to change your looks.
~Charles Gordy
Everytime you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.
~Mother Teresa
The person who reminded me the other day that I need to smile more often is not the first person to comment on my smile. I guess I should take the hint... how important a smile is. Now if only I can remember to smile when I'm not at my best and to truly be grateful for all that I have, even when it's easier to focus on the negative (things that aren't going my way).
So I hope you have a wonderful week! Thank you for reading my ramblings. Remember to smile - even if you're having the worst day you can brighten someone else's!
Until next time,
Keep Smiling!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Christmas
Christmas!
We use so many words to describe the season. But really, there is only one word to truly describe this time of year: Jesus. Jesus Christ is the reason to celebrate this season of Christmas. His birth, His life, His death, His resurrection, His gift to us. We can easily and quickly focus our attention on other things at Christmas (as well as any other day of the year). Not all of these things we turn our attention to are bad. However, if our attention is not on Christ first then we have a problem. For example, we often like to focus on family, friends, parties, giving gifts, traveling, decorations, etc at Christmas time. And these can be good things... as long as we keep Christ as our number one focus and remember that without Him there would be no reason to celebrate Christmas.
I hope that this Christmas is a wonderful time for you and your family. Remember to keep Christ first. He is the reason for the season.
For those of us hurting during this season (at the loss/memory of someone close), I pray that we will find our strength, comfort, and peace in Christ alone.
When the angels had left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem and see what has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”
They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the feeding trough. After seeing them, they reported the message they were told about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary was treasuring up all these things in her heart and meditating on them. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard, just as they had been told.
We use so many words to describe the season. But really, there is only one word to truly describe this time of year: Jesus. Jesus Christ is the reason to celebrate this season of Christmas. His birth, His life, His death, His resurrection, His gift to us. We can easily and quickly focus our attention on other things at Christmas (as well as any other day of the year). Not all of these things we turn our attention to are bad. However, if our attention is not on Christ first then we have a problem. For example, we often like to focus on family, friends, parties, giving gifts, traveling, decorations, etc at Christmas time. And these can be good things... as long as we keep Christ as our number one focus and remember that without Him there would be no reason to celebrate Christmas.
I hope that this Christmas is a wonderful time for you and your family. Remember to keep Christ first. He is the reason for the season.
For those of us hurting during this season (at the loss/memory of someone close), I pray that we will find our strength, comfort, and peace in Christ alone.
Merry Christmas!!
The Shepherds and the Angels [Luke 2:8-20 HCSB]
In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today a Savior, who is Messiah the Lord, was born for you in the city of David. This will be the sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in cloth and lying in a feeding trough.”
Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people He favors!When the angels had left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem and see what has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”
They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the feeding trough. After seeing them, they reported the message they were told about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary was treasuring up all these things in her heart and meditating on them. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard, just as they had been told.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Persevere
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Hebrews 10:24-25, NIV
Oh, how I love encouragement! I love to receive encouragement, and I love to give encouragement. Hebrews 10:25 is my SSMT memory verse for the first half of November. (It should be verse 21 of the year, but unfortunately I missed the second verse in September and October. But it's ok. I will have 22 verses that I have meditated on throughout 2011 and most of which I have memorized... some are new verses to me and some I am using to refresh myself.)
Encouragement is a necessity in this life. Hard times come... a hectic schedule, a difficult job, losing someone you love (through death or just a broken relationship), sickness, etc. The list could go on and on. But, through faith, we know that a wonderful day is coming... "the Day". We cannot lose sight of this fact. This Day should impact how we live each day of our lives. This Day should encourage us to work through whatever hardships must come because we know that the light to the darkness is coming. This Day should also encourage us to encourage those around us, our fellow believers as well as others in our life. We need the encouragement of each other to push us to excel and make the best of what we are given. Otherwise, it is far too easy for us to fall and make decisions that hurt not only us but those we have come in contact with throughout our lives as well. May each of us be an encouragement to everyone we come in contact with today. The simplest form of encouragement: a smile!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
On your part...
Hello October! I love fall... great weather and fun holidays & events...
Today is the first which means it's time for a new verse. It should be verse 19, but I missed/skipped verse 18 on September 15th. But I'm getting back on board with this verse...
If possible, on your part, live at peace with everyone.
Romans 12:18 (HCSB)
To me, this verse is a great reminder and encouragement of how we are supposed to live with and treat others... despite what they say/do. I can only control me, and I am responsible for me!
Today was also a great day... I was blessed to watch my niece in a beauty pageant, enjoy a baby shower for a dear friend, eat lunch with family and friends, make a dress (with help from my mom, of course), eat dinner at my parents' house, and even be productive on school work. It was a full day!
I'll try to post pictures soon. But I'm sure y'all have noticed that it takes a little bit of time for me to post... let alone pictures. Hope y'all enjoy fall! I'll try to be back soon... :)
Today is the first which means it's time for a new verse. It should be verse 19, but I missed/skipped verse 18 on September 15th. But I'm getting back on board with this verse...
If possible, on your part, live at peace with everyone.
Romans 12:18 (HCSB)
To me, this verse is a great reminder and encouragement of how we are supposed to live with and treat others... despite what they say/do. I can only control me, and I am responsible for me!
Today was also a great day... I was blessed to watch my niece in a beauty pageant, enjoy a baby shower for a dear friend, eat lunch with family and friends, make a dress (with help from my mom, of course), eat dinner at my parents' house, and even be productive on school work. It was a full day!
I'll try to post pictures soon. But I'm sure y'all have noticed that it takes a little bit of time for me to post... let alone pictures. Hope y'all enjoy fall! I'll try to be back soon... :)
Monday, August 15, 2011
Time
Time... such a precious thing...
I don't seem to have enough of it. But it keeps going and it's time for the next verse...
Proverbs 16:24 (HCSB)
Pleasant words are a honeycomb: sweet to the taste and health to the body.
I just realized this encouraging verse the other day courtesy of a friend. I hope it encourages you as well!
I don't seem to have enough of it. But it keeps going and it's time for the next verse...
Proverbs 16:24 (HCSB)
Pleasant words are a honeycomb: sweet to the taste and health to the body.
I just realized this encouraging verse the other day courtesy of a friend. I hope it encourages you as well!
Monday, August 1, 2011
Truth
It's a new month which means it's time for a new verse.
Jeremiah 31:33 (ESV)
But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
Now, I learned this verse years ago in Bible Drill. However, I was reminded of the importance and significance of this verse in our Life Group yesterday. Let me share some of our discussion...
God is creating a new covenant with His people. He's taking away the old one. The new covenant is basically the story of Jesus. The new covenant introduced a personal relationship with God which was made possible through Jesus' life and death. And it's our responsibility to "maintain" this covenant.
Well, that's all I've got for now. I promise pictures and more blogging are coming soon!
Until next time,
Enjoy each day you have!
Jeremiah 31:33 (ESV)
But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
Now, I learned this verse years ago in Bible Drill. However, I was reminded of the importance and significance of this verse in our Life Group yesterday. Let me share some of our discussion...
God is creating a new covenant with His people. He's taking away the old one. The new covenant is basically the story of Jesus. The new covenant introduced a personal relationship with God which was made possible through Jesus' life and death. And it's our responsibility to "maintain" this covenant.
Well, that's all I've got for now. I promise pictures and more blogging are coming soon!
Until next time,
Enjoy each day you have!
Friday, July 15, 2011
Update
Here's an update on my summer list...
- spend time with family and friends... build relationships... (check :))
- go to niece & nephews ball games
- plan, decorate, and help with VBS
- go on trips (been on a few :), one more to go)
- work out and get in better shape
(this has been put on pause, I will resume next week =D)
- swim and maybe get a tan
(haven't been lately :( but I am a lil darker, courtesy of a burn...)
- organize the file cabinet... papers have been stacking up for months...
- make a painting for guest bath... "splish, splash, taking a bath"...
- create & complete wedding photo album
- plan for classes next year (in progress!)
- save pictures to computer/disk... create photo albums (?)
- make some new crafts and/or foods... gotta find some ideas...
(These past two weeks some of the eats I've made are a Flag Cake, Tye-Dye Cupcakes, Potato Skins, Shrimp Parmesan Pasta, homemade peach ice cream... Yum! I'll post pics when I get them to my comp)
- read books (Radical, Crazy Love, Don't Waste Your Life, Remarkable Women of the Bible, Love and Respect, First Love, Christ Centered Life, My Utmost for His Highest, Mathematics for Every Student (started this one), Why Didn't I Learn This in College, and more may be added)
So as you can see, there is still much to do. But you probably also realize (like I do) that I am running out of time. But it's ok. I'll get done what I can and I'll tackle these other items some other time. They're not summer only items. Well, most of them are not. I just usually have more time in the summer.
If you hadn't noticed yet, today is the 15th...
which means it's time for my next memory verse and I think it is quite appropriate...
Matthew 6:34 (HCSB)
Therefore don't worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself.
Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Until next time,
Focus on today (each day), don't miss out on everything around you
- spend time with family and friends... build relationships... (check :))
- go on trips (been on a few :), one more to go)
- work out and get in better shape
(this has been put on pause, I will resume next week =D)
- swim and maybe get a tan
(haven't been lately :( but I am a lil darker, courtesy of a burn...)
- make a painting for guest bath... "splish, splash, taking a bath"...
- create & complete wedding photo album
- plan for classes next year (in progress!)
- save pictures to computer/disk... create photo albums (?)
- make some new crafts and/or foods... gotta find some ideas...
(These past two weeks some of the eats I've made are a Flag Cake, Tye-Dye Cupcakes, Potato Skins, Shrimp Parmesan Pasta, homemade peach ice cream... Yum! I'll post pics when I get them to my comp)
- read books (Radical, Crazy Love, Don't Waste Your Life, Remarkable Women of the Bible, Love and Respect, First Love, Christ Centered Life, My Utmost for His Highest, Mathematics for Every Student (started this one), Why Didn't I Learn This in College, and more may be added)
So as you can see, there is still much to do. But you probably also realize (like I do) that I am running out of time. But it's ok. I'll get done what I can and I'll tackle these other items some other time. They're not summer only items. Well, most of them are not. I just usually have more time in the summer.
If you hadn't noticed yet, today is the 15th...
which means it's time for my next memory verse and I think it is quite appropriate...
Matthew 6:34 (HCSB)
Therefore don't worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself.
Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Until next time,
Focus on today (each day), don't miss out on everything around you
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Celebrate!
One of my sweet friends, Amber, is celebrating her Mama's birthday by doing a giveaway on her blog. You should check it out. :)
One of the "extra entries" for this giveaway is to ... "Leave me a comment about one treasured thing that your mom gave you (material or abstract)."
Well, I got to thinking... we celebrate birthdays and have good times, but how often do we stop and really treasure that persons life... treasure what they have given to us.
A few things my wonderful Mom has given to me over the years...
One of the "extra entries" for this giveaway is to ... "Leave me a comment about one treasured thing that your mom gave you (material or abstract)."
Well, I got to thinking... we celebrate birthdays and have good times, but how often do we stop and really treasure that persons life... treasure what they have given to us.
A few things my wonderful Mom has given to me over the years...
- modesty in dress and understanding why to dress modestly
- stop and spend time with God... in His word and in prayer
- a love for puzzles and games
- some of her old clothes (I thought I was so cool wearing her old high school clothes =D)
- a love for spending time with family and knowing who's related to who
- the desire/love to collect things... charms for my bracelet, smashed pennies, etc
- easy recipes :)
- a love for scrapbooking... along with some scrapbooks...
I love my Mom! :) And I really love spending time with her (and the rest of the family) and doing fun stuff!! God has blessed me with a great Mom. I hope you're able to enjoy time with your Mom this week.
Until next time,
treasure those in your life & all that they've given
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Realizations
This summer I decided to go on one of the youth trips (like last summer). Our youth have three main trips in the summers: Centrifuge, PowerPlant, and World Changers. I signed up for PowerPlant because I love serving with church plants. Unfortunately, we didn't have very many youth sign up for PowerPlant this year. I was needed as a chaperone for the Centrifuge trip. To be honest, I wasn't too excited at first. Don't get me wrong - I like Fuge, but I wanted to go to PowerPlant. Well, we went to Fuge and it was a good week. I had fun and learned lots. It was trying at times but also encouraging.
Our World Changers team left today. I must say that I miss going to WC every year. I have been to seven WC projects in the past ten years. My Mom called to tell me something yesterday. The first thing she asked was "Do you want to go to World Changers?" I was at a loss. I said, "What?!" She asked me again. I paused and thought about it. Yes! Wait, I have stuff to do. I have a meeting on Tuesday that I can't get out of. I have another meeting Thursday, not required though. I have to run the computer. etc. I wanted to say "Yes. I'll go home and pack and be ready to leave in the morning." But I couldn't. Needless to say, it kinda bothered me. This opportunity arose, but I couldn't/didn't take it.
[On another note... hang with me... it'll all tie together...]
Last night, some feelings overflowed out of me. Not good feelings either. These feelings were insecurity and selfishness. I had been feeling insecure and selfish for a little while, but last night it was time for them to come out. Ready or not. My husband knew something was on my mind. So he inquired. My stubborn self tried to hold back, but I couldn't. I miss getting flowers. I miss getting stuff for me. I'm tired of cleaning and doing laundry. I'm not good enough. There are fifty million things going on in my head. etc. And he had words to share with me... words that were true even though they were hard for me to swallow. He reminded me of one of our devotions we read recently - about being thankful instead of complaining. I was thankful, really. I have been blessed far more than I deserve. But at the same time, I was listening to "these lies" as he called them. He also pointed something out to me - I need to focus on one thing at a time... pick one thing to start and let that be my focus until I finish it... that way I wouldn't be overwhelmed (hopefully).
Well, all of this to say that I have come to a few realizations...
- I'm not good enough. I never will be. I am who God has made me. I have to trust that He knows what's best and He will be my strength. Sure gifts are nice, but they're not a necessity. Sure time would be nice, but really I have it... I just need to make the most of it.
- I do need to focus on one thing at a time. Get one task down and then tackle something else. I will finish as much of my summer list as possible in these last few weeks.
- We are put in certain situations for a reason. Enjoy the time you have, where you have it, with you have it, and learn something new.
- I am blessed!! Great family, good friends, nice home, clothes to wear, food to eat, able to travel...
- Insecurity and selfishness may return, but I don't have to listen to them.
- We don't always know how much time we have left to live.
I love music! It often reminds us of truths we need to hear. Here are a few that have brightened my day... Mirror, Mirror by Barlow Girl, Beautiful by Mercy Me - another gal (http://vinson-nicole.blogspot.com/) enjoyed this song recently as well...
I hope y'all have a wonderful Saturday!
Until next time,
Live life to the fullest!
Note: When I get my pictures uploaded from my camera to my computer, I will share with you some good eats that I made recently. :)
Friday, July 1, 2011
#13
It's the second half of the year... Only 12 more verses for 2011. Here's verse 13:
Deuteronomy 6:5 (ESV)
You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
I want to encourage you to "stop and chew" on this verse. Really think about what the Lord was saying to the Israelites.
Deuteronomy 6:5 (ESV)
You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
I want to encourage you to "stop and chew" on this verse. Really think about what the Lord was saying to the Israelites.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Live, Laugh, LOVE
Life is wasted if you do not love the things that come your way. We are often blessed ten times more than we realize and acknowledge. So today I am going to share with you some things that I love...
I love weddings... a time of celebration of two individuals and two families joining because of their love for each other. I have the honor and pleasure of attending/assisting at a wedding today. And might I say, it has been a joy watching the wedding party have their pictures taken... and the bride is beautiful!
I love spending time with family. This past week my family (Dad, Mom, Brother, Husband, and I) enjoyed a vacation in Branson. It was a blast! We went with very few plans for the week; however, we seemed to always be going and having fun. If you go to Branson this year, I highly recommend that you go see the show Noah at the Sights & Sound Theater. We also did the usual... putt-putt golf, tennis, shuffle board, swimming (pool & lake). Unfortunately, the sun was not my friend while we were on the lake. My poor body is burnt! But it will heal... hopefully sooner rather than later.
I love summer... and all of its festivities. We have a cookout & swim with the youth this weekend... so exciting! I'm also looking forward to our family's fish fry to celebrate the 4th of July... fun times ahead!
I love quotes. One addition to my classroom walls next year will be quotes... some printed on colored paper, some framed and bought, some painted by dear friends... quotes come in so many different designs and are often great reminders that we need...
I love learning new things. Yes, I'm weird - I like to learn. I spent an entire week at a workshop learning how to have more engaging lessons. I hope that I will be able to efficiently/adequately apply what I learned. I love to learn and that is part of the reason I also love to teach.
I love pictures... and capturing the memories we make throughout our lives. Unfortunately, I often forget to bring my camera along. But I am getting better. Hopefully I'll be able to get the pictures saved so that I can share them with you. And I also have a nifty phone that is pretty good at doubling as a camera.
I love to laugh and have fun!
I love sharing life with others... which is why I have chosen to blog this year. I hope my posts don't bore you too much. I hope to share with you more and more along the way.
Until next time,
enjoy the life you're getting to live
I love weddings... a time of celebration of two individuals and two families joining because of their love for each other. I have the honor and pleasure of attending/assisting at a wedding today. And might I say, it has been a joy watching the wedding party have their pictures taken... and the bride is beautiful!
I love spending time with family. This past week my family (Dad, Mom, Brother, Husband, and I) enjoyed a vacation in Branson. It was a blast! We went with very few plans for the week; however, we seemed to always be going and having fun. If you go to Branson this year, I highly recommend that you go see the show Noah at the Sights & Sound Theater. We also did the usual... putt-putt golf, tennis, shuffle board, swimming (pool & lake). Unfortunately, the sun was not my friend while we were on the lake. My poor body is burnt! But it will heal... hopefully sooner rather than later.
I love summer... and all of its festivities. We have a cookout & swim with the youth this weekend... so exciting! I'm also looking forward to our family's fish fry to celebrate the 4th of July... fun times ahead!
I love quotes. One addition to my classroom walls next year will be quotes... some printed on colored paper, some framed and bought, some painted by dear friends... quotes come in so many different designs and are often great reminders that we need...
I love learning new things. Yes, I'm weird - I like to learn. I spent an entire week at a workshop learning how to have more engaging lessons. I hope that I will be able to efficiently/adequately apply what I learned. I love to learn and that is part of the reason I also love to teach.
I love pictures... and capturing the memories we make throughout our lives. Unfortunately, I often forget to bring my camera along. But I am getting better. Hopefully I'll be able to get the pictures saved so that I can share them with you. And I also have a nifty phone that is pretty good at doubling as a camera.
I love to laugh and have fun!
I love sharing life with others... which is why I have chosen to blog this year. I hope my posts don't bore you too much. I hope to share with you more and more along the way.
Until next time,
enjoy the life you're getting to live
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Halfway!
After this next verse, I will be halfway through the year for SSMT. It’s hard to believe that twenty-eleven is going by so quickly. Here’s my next verse:
Colossians 3:17 (HCSB)
And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
When we posted our verse this time, we were also asked to complete the following statement.
Memorizing scripture has helped me…
to keep my focus on what is important and not let the “little things” bog me down.
to keep my focus on what is important and not let the “little things” bog me down.
I really needed this reflection. I have been down a little here lately. Of course, I think part of the problem is that I have been busy… running ragged… and it’s summer! I have yet to understand how my time disappears. It doesn’t feel like I waste it on insignificant things, but it also doesn’t feel like I’m being as productive/useful as I should be. I need to make sure I keep my focus on the things that truly matter and that I am working toward those goals especially.
On a positive note, I have accomplished a few things on my summer to do list…
- - go to niece & nephews ball games
- - VBS
- - work out… Insanity… enough said…
- - swim… went three days in a row last week
- - started reading one of my books: Mathematics for Every Student
- - cook new food: Baked Potato Soup = yum!
Until next time,
Enjoy your summer!!
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Sweet Summertime
Well, summer has begun! Not officially... there's about 20 more days until it's official...
Nonetheless, summer is here. And it is a great relief. Plus it brings excitement. Excitement to accomplish all of my summer goals. And today, my friends, I'm going to share with you some of the things on my list:
- spend time with family and friends... build relationships...
- go to niece & nephews ball games
- plan, decorate, and help with VBS
- go on trips
- work out and get in better shape
- swim and maybe get a tan
- organize the file cabinet... papers have been stacking up for months...
- make a painting for guest bath... "splish, splash, taking a bath"...
- create & complete wedding photo album
- plan for classes next year
- save pictures to computer/disk... create photo albums (?)
- make some new crafts and/or foods... gotta find some ideas...
- read books (Radical, Crazy Love, Don't Waste Your Life, Remarkable Women of the Bible, Love and Respect, First Love, Christ Centered Life, My Utmost for His Highest, Mathematics for Every Student, Why Didn't I Learn This in College, and more may be added)
So as you can see, I do not want to be lazy and waste my summer away. And don't worry -- I will share the results of these lovely items. I shall relax, but I shall also be productive. Life is too short and too sweet to waste.
As I begin this list, I have a new verse to be memorizing...
1 Kings 3:9a (NIV)
So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.
Until next time,
Live Your Life!!
Nonetheless, summer is here. And it is a great relief. Plus it brings excitement. Excitement to accomplish all of my summer goals. And today, my friends, I'm going to share with you some of the things on my list:
- spend time with family and friends... build relationships...
- go to niece & nephews ball games
- plan, decorate, and help with VBS
- go on trips
- work out and get in better shape
- swim and maybe get a tan
- organize the file cabinet... papers have been stacking up for months...
- make a painting for guest bath... "splish, splash, taking a bath"...
- create & complete wedding photo album
- plan for classes next year
- save pictures to computer/disk... create photo albums (?)
- make some new crafts and/or foods... gotta find some ideas...
- read books (Radical, Crazy Love, Don't Waste Your Life, Remarkable Women of the Bible, Love and Respect, First Love, Christ Centered Life, My Utmost for His Highest, Mathematics for Every Student, Why Didn't I Learn This in College, and more may be added)
So as you can see, I do not want to be lazy and waste my summer away. And don't worry -- I will share the results of these lovely items. I shall relax, but I shall also be productive. Life is too short and too sweet to waste.
As I begin this list, I have a new verse to be memorizing...
1 Kings 3:9a (NIV)
So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.
Until next time,
Live Your Life!!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Insanity
Yesterday marked the beginning of Insanity- the workout video program that we will be doing for the next nine weeks. So this means some changes... work out everyday, change how we eat, push our limits, etc. But, I must say that I am excited. I'm tired of not working out and staying in shape. My hope for Insanity is that it will get me back in to shape and that I'll be consistent. Now Insanity's goal is to push you past your limits to get your hardest body ever using MAX interval training. But we have decided to start out slow since it's been a while that we've worked out. So we will work out everyday following the workout plan the best we can. If we aren't satisfied with the results at the end of the "60 days" then we will start again and keep working until we get to our goals. And we have the "before" pictures and measurements so we can celebrate how far we go...
And our motivation verses...
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (HCSB)
Do you not know that your body is a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body.
And our motivation verses...
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (HCSB)
Do you not know that your body is a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body.
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