McClendon Madness

I love this quote

2012-01-31T19:52:00.001-08:00

“Before you were conceived I wanted you. Before you were born I loved you. Before you were here an hour I would die for you. This is the miracle of Mother’s Love“ -Maureen Hawkins

Music Therapy Better Late Than Never

2012-01-29T18:28:00.000-08:00

I seem to have missed Thursday last week. But the honest truth is the hubs was off work so I didn't spend too much time on the computer. I wanted to share this song manly because like most music that is on repeat at my house my kids have latched on to this one. My 3 year old has been singing the line " I was blind blind blind but now I see" over and over and over again for weeks now. No better choice for what to share then was is on repeat around here...it encourages us and we pray it encourages you!

Tastey Tuesday-Crock pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

2012-01-24T10:07:00.000-08:00

This week I am going to share a yummy crowd pleaser! The best part is that it is a crock pot meal and my family LOVES when I make this. Hope you enjoy!

Crock Pot Tortilla Soup

3-4 boneless chicken breast

1 4 oz can of chopped green chilies drained

1 LARGE can of diced tomatoes WITH Juice

2 cups chicken broth (tend to use more)

Cumin, Salt and Pepper to taste

Flour Tortilla's

Monterey Jack Cheese

Place chicken in the bottom of crock pot (I do use my raw chicken some people cook theirs first). Pour tomatoes, chilies and 1 cup chicken broth over top. Season with cumin, salt and pepper. Cook on high for about 4 hours. When chicken is done shred it with 2 forks and return to crock pot with another cup or so of chicken broth allow to cook another 30 minutes to an hour. This is a good time to add more seasoning. Cut tortillas into strips with a pizza cutter.

Deep fry tortilla strips until golden brown making "chips". Make as many as you want for topping you soup.
Serve finished soup with cheese and tortilla strips.

Hope you enjoy this easy week night diner. You'll have to let me know if you try it:)

Fruit is our encouragement

2012-01-20T13:21:00.000-08:00

Sometimes as a parent I think you make choices that you at the time aren't really sure how they will actually work but you are confident you are making the right choice. Clear as mud? Back this time last year we were at the start of our 2ND semester of school and we had already chosen to at the end of that year pull our middle child out and bring him home to be home schooled. Short back story...He was being bullied at school and he was only in the 1st grade and nothing was being done about it. It was then as I emerged myself in research of curriculum, laws, and resources I realized as I prayed over what we were about to embark on that I realized I had a slew of other reasons why my heart was being called to this and almost none had anything to do with the bullying but rather what kind of children we wanted to raise. I have always been straight on this blog I am a lover of Jesus, He is my friend, He is the way the truth and the life, and my family chooses to serve Him! I realized I wanted my children at home during this very "touchy" time in their lives. I wanted to be the one who called the shots as to what they are actually subjected to. As I prayed I prayed that God would show me how to handle actually pulling our oldest child out of school also. I knew I might have a fight on my hands. But thanks to wonderful influence from some AWESOME home schooled kids whose parents share much of the same views as us her heart was also changed softened to the idea and SHE told me she wanted to be home too!

When we started this year there were many tears as attitudes, preconceived notions, and worldly desires stayed in the for front of our children's minds. I had days when I wanted to throw in the towel and days when I wondered what I had gotten myself into. All of those things have changed. I am really beginning to treasure this time with my children as God intended me to . I am so blessed by the fruit I see each morning as we snuggle on the couch for a read-a-loud or when I see one of my older children tying the shoes of their toddler brother. Attitudes theirs and mine have changed.

I just had to share what a difference time and commitment makes. I have watched my almost 8 year old son mature, change, grow in his hearts desire to help others as he shares Jesus' love, I have watched him go from tears over hours of homework to actually being proud of what he is doing and putting forth more effort. I have seen my daughter who seemed more self-centered open up making new friends, caring less about what others have to say, I watched her love for Jesus grow and I have been able to develop a much closer relationship with her. As a matter of fact this experience has helped grow much more positive relationships with me and all of my children, helped their relationships with their siblings and with all of us as a family unit.

Sometimes you just need fruit and I am so blessed by fruit...It gives me the courage to continue on and it seeds my decision letting me know I am doing just what God wants me to do for my family. I need that right now as we are going through some of the toughest times in our almost 11 year marriage and I feel so pulled to enter back into the work force. Thank you God for fruit and for opening my eyes to basking in this moment not to rushing through the tough to get to something better because when we do we miss the good in this storm!

Music Therapy Thursday

2012-01-19T11:06:00.000-08:00

For Music Therapy today I have to share a current worship favorite at our house. Last Sunday our normal worship leader was out of town on a youth trip so we had a fill in from another church. He did a good job and shared a new song or two this being one of them. Cooper had stayed in church with us instead of going to the nursery and he was taking in all the songs. He loves music...I can see lots of music in his future a talent I pray he uses for the Glory of God. Anyway...Monday on the way to the eye doctor Cooper said from the back seat " When I grow up and can stand up holding a guitar I wanna sing the loin roaring inside song!" I was stunned he had remembered the words and a little proud all at once:) We then heard it on the radio the next day. We googled and found a youtube video...and have been hooked. We love this song. Listen, enjoy, be free in your worship!

Works for Me Wednesday-Snack Baskets

2012-01-18T19:24:00.002-08:00

Sometimes (and not all that often) I come up with an idea that actually works and I stick to it! After weeks and weeks of my kids mindlessly snacking about all day I decided I need to do something about it. I mean my budget can only take so much mass consumption if know what I mean;) I had seen this idea some where...not pinterst though this is pinterest worthy...I think I actually saw this back in my Supper Nanny watching days. Anywho, You purchase a basket, box or some kind of container for each child. Either the night before or in the morning they choose their snacks for the day if you child attends school outside of the home school snacks don't get included. If they choose to eat all their snacks at once then no more for the day. Now of course I am not starving my children I am just trying to eliminate the mindless eating that has been going on around here. You know the I'm bored lets eat kind of thing.

So Monday I hit up my local Wal-Mart and purchased these. It was a 3 pack and only set my back around $1.50. I would really like to spiff them up but because of their size I am not sure how I am going to do it yet...but for sure they need to have each child's name on them or a ribbon to indicate who they belong to!

Here they are all lined up on my kitchen counter awaiting snacks. See what I mean they need some jazzing up. Someone craft please give me and idea or two!
Here they are all lined up and filled with snacks. Now this was taken later in the day and doesn't have a whole days worth of snacks. My general snack allotment is 2 morning snacks and 2 afternoon snacks. Not pictured is Coopers snack box he takes to Kiddie Kollege with him on the days he attends I let him select that snack on the mornings he attends and but it right in his pack. What kind of snacks do your kids enjoy? We are always looking for yummy ideas!

I am so proud of this idea. It has been a wonderful thing for both me and the kids. It really has helped us be mindful of what we are eating, when we are eating and most important why we are eating. Now onto trying to find a better chore system for us that we can actually stick to;)

Tastey Tuesday-Mexican EggRolls/Loaded Potato Bites

2012-01-17T07:50:00.000-08:00

This year we decided to ring in the New Year with a little get together with our friends the Poole's. And to make it easy and fun we did appetizers/snacky food and not a sit down meal. I chose to make Mexican Egg Rolls and Loaded Potato Bites as 2 of my appetizer's. I wanted to share the recipe for Mexican Egg Rolls because every time I make them people RAVE on and on about how yummy they are! I seem to be famous for these. This time I documented the process which seems long but if you prep the chicken the day before or even have some shredded chicken in your freezer (I do this often) you can really cut down on your time it can also be completely prepped the day before and then rolled and fried or baked when ready!

Mexican Egg Roll
Veg. Oil 1-2 c. grated cheddar cheese
1 1/2 lbs. shredded chicken (cooked) 4 Tsp. picante sauce
1pkg. chili seasoning 1can of black beans
4 oz can green chilies 1sm onion chopped
1pkg egg roll wraps found in produce section near tofu
salt and pepper to taste

Heat oil until hot add chicken and onions. Stir until onions are translucent and tender. Drain and rinse black beans combine in a large mixing bowl with chicken, onions, chili seasoning (I only use half a package), picante sauce (I use more then called for), cheese, and drained chilies. Mix well.

This is my ingredients combined (well minus some).
These are the egg roll wraps we buy. Any brand is fine as long as it is the egg roll wrap.

Now that your ingredients are combined...spoon a heaping tablespoon of the mixture into each wrap and fold/roll following the "rolling directions" on your package. Here you see a plate of rolled wraps ready to fry. I don't have any picks of the frying process but it is easy...Just heat a small amount of oil in a frying pan, lay wraps in and allow to cook until golden on one side then flip and repeat. I will add here yes you can bake them I have never personally tried it but if you do please let me know how they turn out. I have been afraid to bake them for fear they wouldn't crisp up.

Finished product below

Since we were having these as an appetizer we just served them with sour cream. If it is a main course serve with sour cream salsa, and we do a side of rice with them. YUMMY FOR SURE!

READY FOR SERVING!

For this shindig I served them on the same platter as Loaded Potatoes Bites you see the sour cream in the middle. I got the idea for the Potato Bites on Pinterest but tweaked the process for myself. Recipe for those below:

Loaded Potato Bites

4 (or more depending on how many you plan to serve) baking or russet potatoes washed well not peeled

shredded cheddar cheese

real bacon pieces (I used the ones out of the salad section)

green onions

Slice potatoes about 1/2 an inch thick. Submerge in melted butter. Place on a sprayed or oiled cookie sheet. Bake for around 12 minutes on 350 flip and bake another 10-12 minutes or until just tender. Top with bacon, green onions and cheese. Serve warm with sour cream or ranch for dipping.

Declarations not Resolutions

2012-01-04T07:44:00.000-08:00

So if you have read this blog for anytime or if you know us personally you know that 2011 wasn't the best year to date. We started the year with a job loss and things just seemed to get worse from there. We did have some great things happen we got a wonderful new home, our kids made it to the state swimming meet, started homeschooling, and then last but not least God rescued us from the enemy and continues to today. That being said when you make a list the bad seemed to out weigh the good. So after a very motivational sermon from my pastor on January 1 Michael and I decided we wouldn't make any resolutions but instead we would make declarations over our lives, marriage, family, home, finances, well over every area of our lives. God has promised much to those who follow Him we have tasted and seen and we want more. So here goes nothing we are putting all our eggs in one basket that is the "Jesus Basket" we have no fall back position and no amount of luck will ever see us through only Jesus will. This year will be good we will prosper and we will not fall victim to the lies of the enemy in our lives.

Crazy Christmas Weekend

2011-12-26T20:15:00.000-08:00

Ready to head to church to celebrate the birth of our Savior! I think my new favorite day for Christmas is Sunday!

I have really neglected this blog lately. But I have a great excuse...I have been enjoying my family this Christmas season. Our holiday hop as I nicknamed it this year started on Thursday when we loaded up and traveled 1 hour north to stay a couple days with my in-laws.

On the first night of our visit we made our way to Santa's Village. We aren't huge Santa people but this is a fun experience for the kids and my father-in-law joined us making it even more fun. I am so glad we went. Even though we don't do Santa at our house Cooper is amazed by him so it was a great experience for him since it was his first time to go. Fun was had by all that is for sure!

Everyone thought a picture in front of the post office would be fun...Until sneaky Cooper stuck his hand inside and pulled out a random kids letter to Santa!

Yeah almost no-body is looking anyone else with multiple children experience that?!?!?

Pictures with Santa. Cooper was amazed and really didn't talk. Duece asked for a dog! And Jesse proclaimed the best gift would be if we got a dog and send Dueces cat Joey to a new home...only my kids!

Duece really wanted Wuggle Pets...he was really excited to find those under the tree.

Look mom and dad "boom drums". Mom and dad now wonder what they were thinking of course it was the ONLY thing he asked for!

Jesse opening her knitting looms. Those made her day since she couldn't use her new pogo stick in the rain. I am waiting for her to create me something great.

I love our traditions and wouldn't change the way we do Christmas morning for anything. I love how appreciative our kids were and are. I am so proud of who they are becoming. But honestly the stress created by our hopping from family to family I could do without. Next year...we think we might go and serve meals at a soup kitchen instead!

Pinterest Finds

2011-12-05T12:36:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but I LOVE pinterest. It is my new obsession. I have found more craft, decorating, sewing and cooking ideas then one person can ever do;) But I can't help myself. My very favorite thing I have found on there are little treasures that save money. Because nothing is better then an idea or tip that puts money BACK in my pocket. So I decided to try a couple of my finds and see what I thought. So far I have made 3 different pinterest products. I thought I might share them with you so you can see what you think.

Fist I was out of lotion. Being prone to severally dry skin this time of year I use a ton of lotion and I have to by some rather expensive brands to get good smooth skin and results that last. This is the link I found on pinterest and the instructions I followed. For this I bought the following: 1 bottle baby lotion $1.50 Vaseline $2.50 Vitamin E Cream $4.20 Total:$8.20

I got a large bowl combined all the ingredients and mixed until the consistency of icing. The only thing that I had to measure was the Vaseline because the only tub of it I could find was 16 oz and you only need 8. It made a ton I refilled my empty lotion bottle, the vitamin e containers, and half the baby lotion bottle. I might get a nice big bottle to keep it in next time. My only tip not included in the above link is you might need a funnel to aide in filling you bottles but if you use a container with a lid no need for the funnel. I believe this should last a good long time. I am really enjoying using it and my skin is really soft!

Next I made these ice packs. It was really easy I use the cheap Dawn and snack size bags I already had here. It was really easy I just squirted the Dawn into the Ziploc removed all the air and double bagged it. Placed in the freezer and DONE! Since I used the left over Dawn from another project this one was FREE! We haven't needed them yet so you will have to check back to see what we think.

Last but not least I was out of scrubbing bubbles and it was for sure time to clean the bathrooms so I thought I might try these tub and shower spray I found. It was really easy and worked out to be rather cheap. I spent $1.28 on Dawn and $2.00 on a gallon of Vinegar. Total $3.28 but actually less when you consider that I can use the vinegar in other cleaners or to mop or as a rinse aid in my dishwasher and since I only used 8 oz of the Dawn I was able to make the ice packs. The only thing I did different from the recipe was I only used 8 oz of each since my bottle I had was small. I am going to clean the tub as soon as I post this so I will have to update on how well it does. **Update I tried it cleaned the kids bathroom and it worked wonders on the tub/shower I sprayed it on didn't really let it sit and wiped it off with a magic eraser**

So what have you found on pinterest lately that you have done?!? I would love to know.

Birthday Shout Out

2011-12-02T06:02:00.001-08:00

Today I have to give a birthday shout out to my wonderful husband Michael. He is the best this makes 12 birthdays of his we have celebrated together. Back when we celebrated his 19th birthday by attending our town Christmas parade I would have never guessed 12 years later we would still be celebrating together. But God made us for each other to travel the road of life together. I could not have asked for a better partner. Michael is an amazing husband and father. He stops at nothing to make sure we all have what we need and want as of late working 7 days a week.

Michael I couldn't think of another person in this world to spend my life with. Happy Birthday praying we get many more together!

Music Therapy Christmas edition

2011-12-01T19:29:00.000-08:00

Woot Woot it is here! My FAVORITE holiday...Christmas. To those who know me know that I love this season. I love my house decorated, I love spending time with the ones we love so dear and I love love love celebrating my saviors birth. I have shared before that the pain of loosing my mom so close to Christmas has caused a black cloud to loom during this time for me in years past. This year I waged war against that cloud and I am so excited about Christmas...my children are happy but since I even went as far as to decorate our cabinet doors the hubs thinks I have LOST IT!

As I mentioned I love celebrating my saviors birth. To me no matter what this is the true "reason for the season" I celebrate His very humble birth and the hope that His resurrection embodies that He will come again. Since I am now addicted to pandora (and pinterest but that is a post for another time) I created a station for Contemporary Christian Christmas songs. While listening to my newly created station I found this song by Third Day. It is GREAT and one of my newest Christmas music favs. Since I have so many I might have to do music therapy twice a week;) Enjoy the Christmas edition of MTT...and be sure to visit Lindsey for her Christmas countdown!

Content...Not for me!

2011-11-22T09:54:00.000-08:00

Recently I took advantage of an opportunity to speak at our churches Saturday night service. The Sunday before I had made the comment that I didn't think "We (Christians) were created to be content." Now before you start posting scripture in my comments I know all about what the Bible says about being satisfied in the Lord and being content with what you have. As a matter of fact I shared several verses on both and I agree 100% with both concepts. What I meant when I said "we weren't created to be content" was....I don't think we were created to be quite pew warmers. God created us to be His hands and feet to do the things He did and "even greater". I don't know about you but I want to love on people and show them every thing that a relationship with the our Daddy above has to offer. I quoted our pastors wife when she said "we are intended to move from glory to glory" or from one experience with God onto the next. I don't want just a taste of what God has to offer (you know the I got my ticket I'm good way of thinking) I want more and more over and over flowing in me through me out to the world. No I don't think we were created to be content He created us to be in relationship with Him and relationships grow and change getting better and better. He wants us to be like Him!

This song really speaks to me. It is the theme song from the recently released Courageous titled the same Casting Crowns put to music the "resolution" the fathers of the movie take. But I got to thinking we were created to be courageous and not "watchers on the side lines". I am not content I want to see God move more and to do so I must be Courageous I have to move out of my seat way from my comfort zone and get to work. I pray that my relationship never grows stale and I never be content but always moving from "glory to glory."

We were created to be courageous...let's take back the fight. Let's be the warriors we were created to be.

Dare2Share

2011-11-19T21:50:00.000-08:00

On Friday my friend Lindsey posted this on her blog and I thought it was GREAT and I had to also borrow and share. No words no explanations just listen and you will see why we think it is GREAT!

Music Therapy Thursday

2011-11-10T09:50:00.000-08:00

When I am getting ready to speak as I am this weekend I always listen to tons of Christian music. It gets me fired up and most of the time I hear God speaking to me best while I am listening to music and/or worshipping. This song speaks so much to me. Considering how under attack I have felt lately I feel like I have to "claim victory" almost every day. The realization that I have the power to shut Satan out makes facing this "world" so much easier. God loved us so much He already fought the fight and paid our debt. Listen enjoy and remember "what the cross has done."

Friendship and Fall

2011-11-07T20:08:00.000-08:00

It is no secret I have some of the most amazing friends. I don't have tons of friends swooning to meet for lunch and shopping but what I do have are the best friends a woman could ask for. I like to think of it as quality over quantity! I have been a little down lately and it takes a real friend to notice that in me. And notice is just what my sweet friend "T" did and she made plans for a girls day just me and her. It was wonderful she took care of all the details and at the last minute when I was going to have to cancle due to no sitter she even worked that out. We had a blast walked around the most wonderful and HUGE craft fair EVER "Christmas Village" then we had a nice quite lunch at a great Mexican Restaurant we found on our way home. I am so lucky to have friends like this that will as dramatic as it sounds come to my rescue. After that day I was recharged and felt so much better about myself. I thank her so much for showing me that taking that time to myself was worth it because sometimes all the preaching in the world doesn't get through to me:) While we were at lunch this was our view!

Isn't it wonderful? As I looked at the view I was reminded how much joy this time of year actually brings to me no matter the pain it also bears. This season of fall reminds me that God's mercies are new every morning just like the leaves we change, we fall, we are bare but then we blossom and come back better than ever. I love the cool temps that make me want to send hours outside with my family enjoying God's beauty. And this view also made me think about how beautiful those close friendships are to me and just how they really do nurture my heart and soul. I love my "girls" and you know who you are...I have the best friends anyone could ask for!

November 1st

2011-11-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it today is November 1st! Yikes what is that like 53 days to Christmas...who's counting?!?! Now that October has been put to bed and the Halloween candy is being consumed we move into my favorite time of year. Oh wait who am I kidding aside from celebrating my saviors birth and spending time with family reflecting on what we are thankful for I HATE this time of year. I use to be full of Christmas cheer decorating long before the turkey was in the oven never mind eaten. But 8 years ago my mother pasted right in the middle of this "holiday season" after a very short by horrible battle with leukemia. November 12 to be exact. It seems that every year on October 23 my nephew's birthday (he was born just days after my mom was readmitted to battle her leukemia relapse and only 3 days after she was put in a medical coma and onto the ventilator) a black cloud comes over me that I can't shake...said cloud remain on through Nov 12 her death anniversary, 14th my little sisters b-day, Thanksgiving, Dec 15 moms own b-day, Christmas and then my birthday Jan 8. It seems like once my birthday is over the cloud leaves and for a while the pain is pushed aside.

I can't decided what it is about all of this that gets me so down. First of all I know she is in a much better place one from which she would never willing chose to leave and I know that in death as crazy as it sounds she received her ultimate healing all of which I am ok with. This is where I would normally say " I miss her for my kids!" But I am starting to realize that is a lie I miss her for me. I just plain old miss her like crazy. I honestly as selfish as I am going to sound want her back. And there are times when I my need for her is overwhelming. In the middle of all that is going on in my life at this very moment I just wish I had to call and chat with, her advice, her inspiration and her help. I am trying hard this year to let this cloud go! I want to be in a good mood this time of year for my kids and the others around me. I am just having a harder time then usual shaking the cloud.

God is and has been so good to me and my family. And I know the only real way to get through all of this is with Him and the love and support of friends and family. This time I am giving it all to God and not picking it back up He has gotten me through so much and He will get me through this. Anyone else have something that gets them down during this time of year? We can pray for each other!

Frumpy this morning

2011-10-21T06:18:00.000-07:00

Well friends so far I have gotten up and dressed 6 straight days! But today I opted for the frumpy look so I could bake cupcakes, clean my house and decorate for my daughters birthday get together. I will of course shower and dress before running the necessary errands this afternoon. But my challenge to get dressed everyday has gotten harder! It has turned off cold here and I am in have very little in the wardrobe department. It seems that I have some sort of basic uniform I was unaware of...I tend to purchase these basics to supply my closet v-neck t-shirt I own one in most every color both long and short sleeves, then I have basic bottoms mostly jeans or jean short or khaki and thanks to my sewing abilities I now have a khaki skirt. So yesterday I got to thinking I can spice up even my simple things so that I am not so frumpy looking! I ventured out and paired my black t-shirt with a cute scarf and earrings. I still felt just as nice as any other day and didn't have to buy a thing. So now I am trying to think outside the box so I don't wear the same things over and over again. Also, I have learned I can make even my cute summer tops work in the winter by pairing them with another basic I have which is a black sweater.

This past week has been wonderful I am so much more on top of things by starting my day off dressed. My husband has really enjoyed it and so have kids. I have been so amazed at how this one little thing can change how I look at my day. So anyone have any tips on working with the wardrobe you already have?!?!

Music Therapy Thursday

2011-10-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

I just had to share this song today. It is soul shaking and spirit moving. Whenever I am down and Satan is trying to fill my head with his lies and I need to remind myself of Gods truth I listen to this song. I found this quote via a friends facebook page and think it sums up how this song makes me feel. "I CAN'T BRAG ABOUT MY LOVE FOR GOD BECAUSE I FAIL HIM DAILY. BUT I CAN BRAG ABOUT HIS LOVE FOR ME BECAUSE IT NEVER FAILS!"

I know Daddy loves me and I don't have to be afraid. My debt is paid and I am confident and covered by HIS GREAT LOVE...Listen and enjoy!

Peanut Butter Cookies

2011-10-19T19:03:00.000-07:00

Today I was so excited we had company. Our good friends the Dobberman's who live in Minnesota had fall break and where here visiting family. So of course we had to have a visit. We invited them to our house for lunch and play time. Michael was sad to have to miss due to work so just Andrea and the kiddos came. I wanted a special treat for dessert to share with our friends. I thought I might have all the ingredients for peanut butter cookies and after fb friend answered my plea for the exact recipe I was in business. Most everyone will have these 3 ingredients on hand at their house and they make a quick and easy tasty treat.

3 Ingredient Cup-a Peanut butter Cookies
1 Cup Peanut butter
1 lg egg
1 Cup Sugar

Preheat oven to 350. Mix all 3 ingredients together in a mixing bowl until blended well. (I used a spoon.) Then roll into walnut sized ball or use a cookie scoop. Then using a sugared fork press each cookie with a cross hatch pattern. Bake for 8-10 minutes and ENJOY. I got around 23-25 cookies out of this mix but some of mine were large.

Giveaway

2011-10-17T08:43:00.001-07:00

As all of you know I have joined a very exciting challenge over at Like a Warm Cup of Coffee. Today Sarah Mae is doing a Get Dressed Giveway featuring Down East Basics. They have some really adorable basic pieces any girl would love to add to her collection...I know I personally love the Frazzle Flowe Tee I think it would be cute in the summer with some white capris or a skirt or in the winter with jeans and a cardy. Hurry on over to check out the details of the giveaway!

Frumps to Pumps...Why?

2011-10-17T06:45:00.001-07:00

Let me please start by giving an update so far I have gotten dressed 5 straight days. I can't believe how much better I feel about myself. This challenge is hard for me because I don't have alot of clothes but I am enjoying making new combinations out of what I do have. And today I am wearing a cute outfit linen shorts and a cute flowy tank top with flower detail. See I am not getting dressed to the nines everyday I am just dressing in more appropriate clothes for the wife, mother and daughter of a King I am suppose to be.

Now to the WHY???? I thought I was doing this for one set of reasons but like everything in life God is showing me reasons I hadn't even considered. I am doing this for myself I have been in a real low lately and had been dressing that way. But I have to say that the last 5 days getting dressed and fixing my hair are helping me to feel so much better. I entered into this doing it for my husband also...All I can say about that is he noticed and he really does appreciates me looking nice. On Friday night as we started to lay down in our bed that was made (I added that to the challenge for myself) he said "I really like coming home to less chaos and things more pulled together. And a made bed sleeps better!"

No matter how hard I try to teach my children to not judge by outward appearances the sad truth is people are going to judge you. I have experienced it first hand! As a very young mother I happen to experience this ALL THE TIME! I like to say you can never really know a persons heart if you don't take the time to get to know them. But not everyone is that way. I need to put my best foot forward so others will take me seriously as I proclaim Gods word and works in my life and lets be honest here are you going to take me serious if I am standing before you in a a stained t-shirt and lounge pants?!? Of course I would hope the words out of my mouth would be what you hear but sometimes it is hard to hear if you don't take the person seriously!

Sarah Mae's motivational this morning was great. I want to do this in freedom I am not tied to the "list" I made in my original post on this topic. It is just things I am trying to get better at. I am not disappointed if they don't happen I am realistic I have 3 small children and things don't always go as planned. But I am putting my very best foot forward on this one. I know God wants me to be dressed my productiveness when I do so I believe is evidence that I need to do this for myself and my family.

Courageous

2011-10-15T15:35:00.000-07:00

On Thursday night I was blessed with the opportunity to go out with some of my wonderful girl friends from church and CWJC to see the newly released movie Courageous. It is a wonderful movie about fathers who are working hard to become the Godly Father's all men are called and created to be. I was doubly blessed when gifted 2 tickets to take my family to see it. So after church last night Michael and I took the kids to the late showing of the movie (so our toddler would go to sleep). My whole entire family enjoyed the movie my toddler even sat quietly! Michael said it was the best movie yet by Sherwood Productions (someone correct me if that is not the name of the church that did it). If you liked Facing the Giants and Fireproof this is a must see and if you haven't seen either of those and are looking for a good wholesome family movie this one has our recommendation.

The movie is very thought provoking about the job you are doing to be the Godly parent God calls us to be. All I know is I don't want to be a "good enough parent" I want to be the one I know God created me to be!

Thankful Thursday

2011-10-15T07:58:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted a Thankful Thursday the last 2 weeks so I think I need to catch up! LOL

I have to admit I have so much to be thankful for right now. God has been blessing us in ways that only HE can ordain. And most days all I can say in response is "He is on the throne and in control!" He has even been working out the most intimate of details as only He can. So today I just say God is good and worthy of all my praise!!

I got dressed!

2011-10-14T09:11:00.000-07:00

I really love this post for Sarah Mae about the "Frumps to Pumps" Challenge. She really does a wonderful job capturing why she and most of us have joined in.

I have to admit I did it yesterday. I got up I didn't get dressed right way because I was crazy and was making a skirt to wear (yes I know I am nuts). But once the skirt was done I donned it with an adorable top and lovely earrings. My biggest challenge is my new loooooonger hair that I normally fashion into a ponytail but yesterday I took the time to blow it dry and I actually wore it most down. I felt fabulous and not just at that moment but all day. Thursdays are insane at my house but I felt on top of things by being dressed. And it was nice that when I needed to leave I didn't have to rush looking for something nice to wear the my class I teach or the movie I saw with the Girls last night. I did it this morning. I got up and got dressed first thing. And today has been amazingly productive. I think the bonus was my hubby who said he thought I looked great and that he really appreciated my trying to be a little more pulled together when he came home.

I started this morning taking pictures to document each day and normally will only join in on Monday's for the updates but I had to share.

Frumps to Pumps

2011-10-12T06:55:00.000-07:00

I mentioned a couple weeks back that I was challenging myself to get up and get dressed every single day.Well...I have to admit that I am not doing so great in that challenge. I might be dressed every day but I promise it is frumpy to say the least most of the time. So I am joining some of my bloggy friends for a "Frumps to Pumps" challenge. I am excited. I know I need to do this for my husband and myself. Right now I am beyond frustrated that I can't seem to get the linky to post so here is a blog link to follow along. I hope to grab the linky soon! OK so my goals are as follows.

1.) Get up when the alarm goes off not lay there and watch the morning news!
2.) Make my be as soon as my feet hit the floor.
3.) Be completely dressed before I leave my bedroom in the morning. I mean dressed not my normal cotton shorts or pants and a tshirt I am also going to try to wear more then tshirts more often.
4.) Fix my hair. Recently I have grown my hair out rather long it is almost to the middle of my back and I normally fashion it into some sort of ponytail. So now I would like to do more with it.
5.) Get rid of clothes that don't flatter me. Saving those tshirts and cotton shorts for workouts only...which I need to bring back!
6.) Try some new make up since I don't normally wear make up.
7.) Of course I will wear earrings! That is the only jewelry I ever wear!
8.) Last but not least I want my children to do the same actually get dressed not in lounge clothes and like another blogger share I would like to help my daughter start taming her unruly long hair.

So who wants to joining in visit "Like a warm up of coffee" and grab the linky and link up it will be fun! Updates should be on Mondays so check back...I might actually post some pics!

Kids Clothing

2011-09-29T19:32:00.000-07:00

I am linking up today with Kelly's Korner on where I get my kiddos clothes. Let me start by saying there was a time when saving money on kids clothes was not my top priority...Back when I had only one child and we had 2 incomes. Now with 3 children, homeschooling and one income I have to say I LOVE to save money dressing my kids and it all pays off when someone oohs and awes over and adorable outfit. So here's how we do it at the McClendon's

**I always do the first two I either sew to save or buy used before any other option...That makes it really easy on our pocket book**
1. I NEVER pay full price for anything. So my first stop for my daughter is most always a great consignment shop in another town. Or the sale rack at about 2 chain stores here locally and one consignment store.
2. For my little one (3 yr old) I make as many clothes as possible for him. He is still small so I love Jon-Jon's, longalls, appliqued shirts and gingham shorts...I am addicted! So it is a good thing I know how to sew it saves TONS of money on those types of things. This child of mine gets 90% of his clothes via hand-me-downs from the grandchild of some wonderful friends at church. So normally what I make him is dress clothes, school things and anything holiday related. I also sew alot for my daughter I love to make her clothes I wish she was still small.
3. I shop the children's place alot for my older son. He loves to actually have outfits (rare for a boy) and they have wonderful pieces that work well together making it easy for him and I to pull together a nice wardrobe for less.
4. I have recently discovered EBay for their clothes I have saved alot of money since being introduced to it. I see lots more things coming from there.

I want to add one small thing...I am picky about what my children wear not really the brands or anything but I like for them to dress age appropriate. My now 11 year old daughter and I have had a fight or two in a clothing store but I want her to look like a little girl (okay a young lady) not a street walker! I think she needs to be young as long as possible I don't think it is healthy to allow her to dress like older girls.

Thankful Thursday

2011-09-29T05:10:00.000-07:00

This week I am thankful to live in a country were I am free to practice my spiritual and religious beliefs as I please whether in my home or in a church. I am also thankful that I am never condemned and my life is never in danger if my opinions of the spiritual nature don't match what others around me believe. I think while I am expressing thanks for "governmental freedoms" I would have to say I am also thankful to live in a country where I can choose how I school my children. Since for this family those two things go hand in hand.

I love my Papa so much that I know even if I lived somewhere that didn't allow me the above freedoms life on the line or not I would still worship and sever Him. He is a good Papa and I just can't resist being at His feet.

Happy Birthday J-Bug

2011-09-28T07:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday September 27 we celebrated this sweet little girls 11th birthday!

That happens to be my favorite picture of my daughter Jesse. I think she was almost 4 when it was taken. (Save me the lectures on the passy!!) But it seems to capture her real personality.

It is beyond hard for me to believe that my oldest child is now 11. The memories of the day of her birth came flooding back as her and I talked yesterday. I was SOOOO young when she was born and scared to death to be a mommy. But that day Wednesday, September 27, 2000 at 8:04 p.m 4 hours after my water was broke my whole life changed. I become a mommy and it was all thanks to this wonderful treasure sent from God. I don't think she will ever realize the positive impact she has had on my life, her daddy's life, or the others around her. She was my mothers only grandchild that she ever got to meet or have a relationship with....I marvel at how God's divine plan was at work from the moment this sweet child was conceived. I believe Jesse will grow into an amazing young lady as she lady has. She is responsible, respectful, very helpful and most of the time (you have to allow a margin to factor in her age LOL) a real joy to be around. I feel blessed to be her mommy and I know her daddy feels the same way. We are two really lucky parents!

Happy Birthday J-bug aka Lovebuttons, Chicken legs, JJ, J, Jester and all those other pet names we have called you over the years! We love you very much!!!

This is a more recent picture of what our sweet little girl looks like also capturing her personality to a T!

Thankful Thursday

2011-09-23T08:54:00.000-07:00

I have to admit I had skipped this post yesterday because I thought I was having trouble finding something to be thankful for. Then I looked around. So this week I am thankful for a wonderful husband who works hard to provide for his family. He loves me and is a wonderful daddy. And I am thankful for 3 healthy children God has trusted us with. They are our treasure for sure. I am also thankful for a wonderful church family who are right there when you need them praying just as hard as we are. And friends I am thankful for our nearest and dearest friends those who love us not matter what and listen no matter how long we might rant about what is going on. These people are true blessings in our lives. God has done a great job putting just the right people in our paths lately and I am so thankful for that.

When I have a hard time realizing how good God is I just look around. We truly are blessed people here at our house! Blessed and Thankful!

Early Works Field Trip

2011-09-16T12:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the kids and I got to take part in our first homeschool field trip. It was alot of fun we went to Early Works a childrens museum in Huntsville only about an hour from here. It was a man who impersonates our 16th president Abe Linclon. He was all dressed like Linclon and he talked for an hour all about his life from birth until his assasination. It was very fun! After the talk we broke into groups and went to different stations to hear more details about Linclon. We ended our outing with a picnic at a local park only 2 blocks from the museum. We had so much fun and my kids are even asking to do a unit study on old Abe. Small perk of homeschooling this little trip only cost us $20 for admission and we packed a lunch...totally a money saver:) Here are a couple pictures...enjoy!

Photo credit to my friend Nicole Knight! Of course I didn't take my camera...Are you suprised!

Thankful Thursday

2011-09-14T19:37:00.001-07:00

I thought I better get my Thankful Thursday posted tonight because we are going on our first home school field trip tomorrow.

God showed up in 2 well really 3 big ways at our house this week. I will just kind of leave it at that for privacy reasons which I am sure you understand. But I do want to be really sure that HE gets all the glory for what HE is doing. Even though I shouldn't have been surprised I was at how HE provided just what we needed. For some reason I can really feel God moving for us in all of this.

I guess the best thing to say would be I am thankful for blessings only God can ordain.

I have to share-Testimony

2011-09-12T21:06:00.000-07:00

I believe it is important to keep record of what God is doing in our lives and around us. So I just had to share 2 quick little stories.

First, Friday afternoon as I cooked diner Duece and I were helping each other unload the dishwasher. Not our favorite chore...at all! But as he sat on my kitchen counter drying dishes he looked up at me and said he wanted to tell me something. I said ok sure. He made Jesse leave the room, I am not sure why. But he proceeded to tell me about how the other day when "Daddy (Michael) had gotten the phone call with the bad news" and we were so upset he did like he was told and prayed about the situation. I remember going into my bedroom so Michael and I could talk in private and the kids asking why I was upset. I just told them that it was grown up stuff and asked that they please pray. So Duece did...he is so great at doing this. But anyway back to the kitchen. He told me that when he prayed God had spoke to him on the inside you know in his spirit and told him "that everything was going to be ok!" I was stunned at what Duece was telling me but even more stunned when he asked if I believe him. "Of course I believe you Duece!""This is the very thing we would expect out of you!" That kid NEVER seems to amaze me. His heart and love for God shine in him so much. I was humbled that it took my 7 year old to remind me who really had my back!

One more story...On Sunday night I took my children's group from church to the local rec center park for our "Back to Sunday Night" kick off. Or in other words our little get together celebrating an end to the summer break. We had originally planned a pool party but due to recent rains here water temps were a little low for that:) Anyway, we loaded the bus with about 10 children and 3 adults. The playground was already hoppin and we just joined in. When it came time to do our devotion I asked for volunteers from our group to invite the other children at the playground to join us. Several did I think around 6 or 7 sweet little Hispanic children joined our circle. They listened intently to my devotion about letting the little children come to Jesus b/c the Kingdom of Heaven belonged to them. They answered my questions during quiz time and really seemed at home in our group. At the end our group surrounded Duece to lay hands on him and pray for his tummy ache. I opened it up for the children to pray as we normally do and God really showed up. After several of "our" children prayed 2 of the visitors prayed for Duece also. It was a wonderful time of fellowship. I love when God shows up and gives you confirmation that what you are doing is just what He wants you to do!

I am so blessed to work with children during this time of revival and renewing! I know these children really have the Kingdom of God at heart...I am humbled to know and work with all of them!

Of course no camera!

2011-09-12T21:00:00.000-07:00

Ok so those of you who know me really well know that I seem to always leave my camera at home when I most need it. And I so needed it yesterday. After church we headed down to the campground to visit my dad and enjoy a boat ride. The weather was perfect not hot at all and overcast. But due to all the recent rain the water was COLD, however that didn't stop my 3 bathing beauties from jumping in. My dad got a new boat a couple months ago and it is so nice and comfy for the family. We enjoyed a scenic ride around before stopping off at the kids favorite island for a swim and to use the rope swing. It was a wonderful time of laughter and fellowship. We all really enjoyed ourselves. I just hate that I didn't take the camera along to snap some shots of what might have been this "seasons" last boating/lake trip. Oh well I will learn one day...maybe:)

Thankful Thursday

2011-09-09T06:26:00.000-07:00

I kept saying I was going to get this post up yesterday but that really never happened. We had an interesting day. I sewed all morning while Cooper was at preschool and Jesse and Duece did their seat work. After getting Cooper we had lunch, more school and got ready for me to go teach my CWJC class. Then playgroup, home, diner and then more school. So no post but I am thinking better late then never.

I shared the other day that Michael and I were going through a very trying time right now. But I also shared how we have decided to praise God all the way! So I am going to try every Thursday to do a Thankful post. Because I know the only way we will ever get through any of this is by trusting God to meet all our needs.

This week I am thankful for....The annoying tree that had invaded Ms. Cranford's fence needing to be cut down. I am also thankful for some hemming a sweet friend asked me to do for her. Both brought in a little extra income. God seemed to provide just what we needed to get through that week. I am so thankful for that!

Build up a wall the enemy is coming

2011-09-05T13:07:00.000-07:00

God has really been at work in mine and Michael's life lately. I had been really "down" for a while when a prayer meeting started at our church. The purpose of the prayer meeting was to "pray for our church and our community". But what happened to me at or as part of those meetings I believe was God's way of preparing me for some not so great news Michael and I would get 2 days after that last prayer meeting. At the very first prayer meeting my pastors wife had a "word" for me about an "opening or a doorway and it being bright and lined with blue pots." My details are fuzzy because it has been several weeks ago so excuse my vague quoting. Then Jeff our pastor told me that blue was the color of truth. I was so excited to hear those things since I had felt a little off course as far as what God was doing in and through me. Then there was Michael he was experiencing a spiritual low at the time and was really dragging me down. After they prayed over me about him and our marriage God started to move instantly. On the last night of prayer service Jeff and April invited everyone down for individual prayer to be "more filled" for continuing our endeavors. When April prayed over Michael and I she told us to build up a wall to keep the enemy out or in other words do what God is telling you to do right now so the enemy can't get in and God can work out his plan. And Jeff added to that with " I see multiples for you in the form of blessings not one big one like when Cooper was healed but several different ones and we would recognize those as God." (Jeff if you are reading this and it needs correcting let me know!)

Ok so fast forward 2 day after that service. Michael gets a phone call when he comes home from work. I can't share all the details with you Michael and I have decided somethings need to remain private. But it was shattering for us in the financial department. Our lives are going to be seriously impacted. And not for the good. After he hung up the phone we talked about Aprils word and how it felt like the enemy was on our doorstep and it was up to our "wall" to keep him out. We are scared, nervous and things are really grim for us right now in that area. But we don't think God has delivered promise after promise just to leave us in the dust. We know whatever we go through will be for His glory and we will praise Him no matter the storm.

I am going to take the advice of a friend and blog during our journey to downsize ( HA a process that started a long time ago again God preparing us). And I will also use this as a opportunity to share about what God is doing in our lives and in our community and in our church. It is all noteworthy!

I am thankful for April and Jeff. I honestly feel like their words were prophetic in our lives. I can't wait to see what God uses us to do during this time.

Homeschooling Why?

2011-08-30T19:44:00.000-07:00

God has put it on my heart to share my home school story. Or better yet the reason we chose to home school this year. I had wrote a previous post about why we were going to home school but decided to "pull" it I didn't like the way I had explained things plus it was written before we decided to do this with both children. I had to really think and pray long about weather or not to even share our story since so many negative things had been said to us upon making the choice "public".

Let me take you back to when Jesse was in 1st grade. She had the most wonderful teacher. It was one of the best school years EVER! At the end of the year she was assigned to a teacher I wasn't thrilled for her to have. And my instincts were right. It wasn't a good fight and the year was rough not academically but otherwise. I had chosen to let Jesse continue in school because I was pregnant with our youngest child. Or in other words I was a chicken! By the time the question arose again I wasn't ready to even consider it again. So I sent Duece to public kindergarten...HUGE mistake he was not socially ready and it was a nightmare the whole year. Tears and more tears every single day. He had a wonderful teacher and she loved him to pieces but that didn't matter to Duece. That is when I started really researching it, talking to other home school moms and praying about it. But was swayed by the fact that we had a friend who was a first grade teacher who thought she could change his mind about school. Well as luck would have it Duece was assigned to her class. I thought things would be great but was surprised about 6 weeks into school that things were far from great. I knew in an instant I made the WRONG choice and hadn't listened to my heart or to God. We made it through the year but had decided by the 2nd semester we would be making a change this year.

We really did pray about what God would have us do. And it was then that we realized our reason for homeschooling had almost nothing to do with our public school experience. It had so much more to do with what kind of children we wanted to raise. Our goal as parents is to raise 3 kingdom minded, kingdom growing, love sharing followers of Jesus Christ! Having our children at home with us gives us more time to focus on Kingdom mindedness ( ok is that a word?) and they would of course have far less influence from negative sources. We really feel like we have made the right choice for our family. And the peace that fills our school room is proof that we are doing just as God wants us to do.

New House Rules

2011-08-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

We have decided to adopt the Duggar family rules as our own for awhile. I really get a lot of inspiration from this family and I loved their rules when I read them shared on another blog. I really like their approach their rules are faith based and there is NO YELLING in their home. Now that is something I am trying hard to achieve! Anyone who knows me knows I am a "yeller". I don't want to yell anymore. I want my home filled with JOY! I am going to share them with you in case you want to use them and I will be sure to "update" you all on how the new ones are going.

House Rules

1. Always use soft words, even when you don’t feel well.
2. Always display kind actions, even if you have been mistreated.
3. Show joyful attitudes even when no one is looking.
4. Have sincere motives with no thought of self-gain.
5. Think pure thoughts.
6. Always give a good report of others. Never tale-bear unless physical harm will come to someone.
7. Never raise a hand to hit.
8. Never raise a foot to kick.
9. Never raise an object to throw.
10. Never raise a voice to yell.
11. Never raise an eye to scowl.
12. Use one toy/activity at a time.
13. Never let the sun go down on your wrath. (Don’t go to bed angry or guilty.)
14. Amendment J.O.Y.: Put Jesus first, Others second, Yourself last. Make serving your family a priority.

Week 1 Update

2011-08-20T20:01:00.000-07:00

I just couldn't wait any longer to update everyone on how our first week of Home school had gone! Well...It was GREAT! I have told several people that I woke up Monday morning all 3 kids climbed in bed with me (Michael leaves around 3:30 every day) and we talked for a long time about what we want this year to be like and everything we wanted to learn or places we wanted to visit. It was an amazing way to start the morning of the first day of school. As I lay there surrounded by my treasures I felt at peace with our decision just like I was doing exactly what I was suppose to do. This was not our first official day of school but rather a transition day in which we began review work. We schooled 4 days this week and all 4 were amazing. I can't wait to see what next week holds. We will be schooling 4 days during that week also. We are taking a slow start in order to find our groove while we await the arrival of the rest of our curriculum. I am so excited about the school year I can't hardly wait until we officially start!

No title-Just the truth

2011-08-12T05:17:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I can't help but wonder if I am letting my number 1 ministry "go".

I feel as a wife and mother my number one ministry is inside my household. I feel like before I can properly minister to others I have 4 other souls I am to minister to. I am counting my husband because I believe it is part my job to help cultivate his soul along with the children. But as of late I feel I am falling short. I have been a little lazy, bossy, and mean most of the time. I don't like it. I know my family doesn't like it and so I feel like I am letting that ministry "go!" I don't know what is wrong with me but I just can't seem to pull it together sometimes. I want to be so much more as their wife and mother but at the end of the day most of the time I just owe them a huge apology and find myself begging for a do over.

I feel so weak and alone most of the time. I think finding courage to do what I know I should do is hard for me sometimes. I also know that this ministry suffers for reasons I can't control. My strategy from here...Pray! My Papa will lead me through any trouble I have because He loves me so much and He only wants good things for me and my family. With His help we will be all He is calling us to be.

Challenge Anyone

2011-08-09T10:19:00.000-07:00

A while back I remember a bloggy world challenge that challenged women to get up every morning and "get dressed"! I don't mean in ratty sweat and a pony tail either. I am talking about getting your self dressed for the day. I didn't take the challenge but realize how important it is. So I have decided to challenge myself and blog readers to do the same. I know women that work may not be in this hole but alot of at home moms are. Myself for sure. I am going to get dressed every single day fix my hair and all. I know it will help my self esteem and it will help my motivation. While I am at it I am challenging myself to make my bed first thing in the morning. Who wants to join me....I am positive it will change my life:)

Under the microscope

2011-07-18T14:37:00.000-07:00

Today I began the registration process for the home school covering we intend to use for our children this upcoming year. I am so excited to embark on this adventure that we feel God has called us to do and that we feel is necessary. But all my excitement is mashed when I remember all the criticism we seem to be facing right now. How is it that people can so easily pass judgment but no even ask us why we have chosen this route? Why do family members think they are entitled to an opinon on how we raise our children? And why do I feel like people lack confidence in my emotional ability to do this and do it well? Why oh why must people make me feel like a total parental screw up?!?!

I firmly believe in what we are doing. And I thought I was ready to combat any critics with my tough skin and well thought out answers. But as it draws near time for those final withdraw papers to be sent I found myself second guessing our decision all because of what people had to say about it and how what they were saying made me feel. The truth is (and if you know me you already know this) I put way too much stock in what others think of me both as a person and a mother. I wasn't raised to be this way but teen mom who married young just has a why of letting others make you think you aren't good enough. When the reality is that I am going to be doing just what God intended for me to do...Teach my children. From the very moment they are born and draw that first breath we are their teachers we are the ones to guide and mold them.

It is hard for me to block out all the negative things people are saying but Michael and I are willing to prove them all wrong. Our children are so excited. We can't even wait for the rest of our curriculum to come in and get started. I hate feeling like I am under the microscope but like my mother always said "The best revenge is success!"

Music Therapy Thursday

2011-06-30T05:34:00.000-07:00

Today I am sharing a little Sidewalk Prophets. The song is "You love anyway". Most of the time I am in AWE of the constant unconditional love Daddy pours out on all of us. The real kicker...He loves us no matter what...NOTHING can separate us from that love. These words have been ringing in my ears for weeks. When you think you are a lost cause He believes in you...When you are beat down He picks you up...When you turn your back on Him He never turns His back on you and He...Loves you anyway!

The question was raised
As my conscience fell
A silly, little lie
It didn’t mean much
But it lingers still
In the corners of my mind
Still you call me to walk
On the edge of this world
To spread my dreams and fly
But the future’s so far
My heart is so frail
I think I’d rather stay inside
But You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
How You love me
It took more than my strength
To simply be still
To seek but never find
All the reasons we change
The reasons I doubt
And why do loved ones have to die?
But You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
I am the thorn in Your crown
But You love me anyway
I am the sweat from Your brow
But You love me anyway
I am the nail in Your wrist
But You love me anyway
I am Judas’ kiss
But You love me anyway
See now, I am the man that called out from the crowd
For Your blood to be spilled on this earth shaking ground
Yes then, I turned away with this smile on my face
With this sin in my heart tried to bury Your grace
And then alone in the night, I still called out for You
So ashamed of my life, my life, my life
But You love me anyway
Oh, God… how you love me
You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
You love me, You love me
You love me, You love me
How You love me
How You love me
How You love me

What we have to celebrate

2011-06-20T19:24:00.000-07:00

"I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten--the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm--my great army that I sent among you." Joel 2:25 NIV

If you had of told me 9 years ago that I would still be married to Michael and that he would become an amazing dad...I would have thought you had lost your mind. As young parents we didn't always make the right choices and Michael seemed to almost cave under the stress. While I matured at a rapid rate Michael on the other hand went on a downward spiral. While I choose not to include all those details now (post for another time) I do however believe Michael and I are living in those very years spoke of in Joel. You see the locust or Satan or rather addiction in our case stole many many years from Michael in his relationship with our oldest two children. And yesterday as we celebrated fathers day we also celebrated that which God had delivered...He is He has repaided to us those lost years. He has mended all hearts and wounds, repaired all relationships, and even blessed us almost 3 years ago with a 3rd child.

It has been wonderful to watch God change, shape and mold Michael into the man he is today. I count it a true blessing to be the woman God chose to place with Michael for this journey. We are a real team and in today's time that in itself is a true blessing. Father's Day has a whole new meaning around here over the past 4 years or so. I am amazed at all God has done in our lives and I am thankful for His promise to restore all those years.

As we embark on new journeys and adventures in this life I know I have something to celebrate...My husband loves me, loves his children, loves God, and would do anything for us. I thank God everyday because I believe he made a perfect match!

Guess What...

2011-06-16T05:41:00.000-07:00

We are moving! I can't believe it after 5 years at our current address we are moving on. We will be staying in the same city but have found a home to better suit our needs. It is almost perfect for us and with the addition of a fence and a couple trees in the future it will be just what we need.

I have to admit that while I couldn't be happier about the new place I am mildly sad leaving this one. We moved here when Duece was just 2 years old and Jesse was about to begin Kindergarten. This is where we brought Cooper home from the hospital and we Michael and I have grown in our faith and as a couple. I have a tingle in my heart that as the last box is packed and the doors shut and lock behind us I might be a little sad!

But in the mean time...The moving madness must begin. I am on a mission to clean this house this week so that next week I can start packing from nice clean rooms. I intend to as I pack go through and purge any and all unused items. If we haven't used them here we will not be using them there. I think the local rescue mission store will be getting a LARGE donation:) I have to get a serious move on because we are moving in...JUST TWO WEEKS 15 DAYS TO BE EXACT!

So who wants to help...I can feed you!

Jesus Rides the Subway-Trevor Morgan

2011-06-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

It seems like God is talking to me through worship and music alot these days. So sorry if you haven't been enjoying my very random posting about songs God is using to speak to me.

This one I heard on the radio. As the words came over my speakers I was consumed. I realized Jesus never hung out with the Saints. He mingled among the very ones most of us would never give 2 seconds of our time. But take it from someone who has been there " been kicked around" Jesus can cover any unlovely thing and make it Holy and Righteous. Think about these words the next time you are quick to pass judgment. Everyone is offered the same exact gift from Jesus. Remember He became sin so we might become his righteousness!

Jesus rides the subway
With the junkies and the freaks
Jesus rides the subway
With the hustlers and the creeps
He rubs shoulders with the thieves
And he looks a lot like everyone he sees
Jesus rides the subway
While the pretty people sleep, and he says…
You can lay your burden down
You can lay your burden down
Oh, maybe you’ve been kicked around
But you can lay your burden down
Jesus strolls the sidewalks
On the wrong side of the tracks
Jesus strolls the sidewalks
That poverty attacks
He makes his home among the shacks
Where the fatherless have fallen through the cracks
Jesus strolls the sidewalks
While the righteous turn their backs, and he says…
You can lay your burden down
You can lay your burden down
Oh, maybe you’ve been kicked around
But you can lay your burden down
Jesus went to church on Sunday
Sat in the back and sang the hymns
Jesus went to church on Sunday
But they didn't recognize him, and he said...
You can lay your burden down
You can lay your burden down
Oh, maybe you’ve been kicked around

More Like Falling in Love

2011-06-10T09:37:00.000-07:00

If you have read this blog any amount of time you know some things about me...I am a wife, stay at home mom, I craft, we are downsizing our budget and you know that I am a Christ follower! You might also know from Lent or Christmas post that I am a United Methodist. Right?!? Anyway....It hasn't been all that long ago that I thought God was a "gettcha God" ruling from heaven with a wrath like no other. But once I realized God loved me and wanted to be part of all the ends and out of my life I also realized this believing thing was way more about RELATIONSHIP and had almsot nothing to do with what "title" was next to the church I attended.

God doesn't care what religion I am. And if all that religion does is cause me to trip up or be bond by laws and rules he really doesn't want me to be a part of it. We were created from the very begining to be in constant relationship with our Father that is what he wants us to do and he Loves when we love on him and will love on us back!

A couple months back I heard this song and I really think it sums up how I feel about this realtionship-vs- religion thing. Read and enjoy but know that relationship ready and waiting when you are!

More like Fallin In Love- Jason Gray

Give me rules

I will break them

Give me lines I will cross them

I need more than a truth to believe

I need a truth that lives, moves, and breathes

To sweep me off my feet

It ought to be

More like falling in love

Than something to believe in

More like losing my heart

Than giving my allegiance

Caught up, called out

Come take a look at me now

It's like I'm falling, oh

It's like I'm falling in love

Give me words

I'll misuse them

Obligations I'll misplace them

'Cause all religion ever made of me

Was just a sinner with a stone tied to my feet

It never set me free

It's gotta be

It's like I'm falling in love, love, love

Deeper and deeper

It was love that made

Me a believer

In more than a name, a faith, a creed

Falling in love with Jesus brought the change in me

End of school

2011-05-31T19:29:00.000-07:00

It is official Friday was the last day of school and while swim team started weeks ago and it has been nice and HOT for weeks...SUMMER IS HERE! I couldn't be happier to be done with rushed mornings, hours of homework, and whiny voices at the diner table. Since we have chosen to home school we are taking an "extended" summer and not starting school until the first of September so unlike those returning to school we get around 14-16 weeks of summer! I am so excited. We might decided to start school earlier but this is our plan as of now. I am so excited I scored some of my curriculum at low cost or free tonight at a "curriculum fair". But the end of the school year wouldn't be the same without a couple par-tays to attend.

Cooper had the usual Kiddie Kollege "Ice Cream Social" last Wednesday and while I know he loves ice cream he mainly spent the hours hanging out on the playground with his friends. He was so sad when I made him say goodbye for summer to those friends and his teachers. He has asked everyday since then if they can come over to play:) He will go back to Kiddie Kollege next year 3 days a week in their 3 year old program. We love us some Kiddie Kollege.

Duece also had an "Ice Cream Social". It was so sweet to see all of his little class mates enjoying their treat while watching a DVD slide show of the year prepared by Duece's teach Mrs. Odell. Duece was our number 1 reason to visit the idea of homeschool and so imagine my surprise when he cried as we gave hugs and kisses and said good bye. He later told me he was going to miss everyone...That I have to admit made me sad...But I know we are making the right choice for next year!

Jesse had a party in her class that the parents were not invited to attend. However we were invited to attend the awards ceremony. I have to admit I have been extra proud of her all year she took first place in the grandparents day essay contest, preformed in the talent show and had maintained all A's all year. She received several awards including A honor roll, Pals club, AR, and Conduct. I am sure if I forgot one she will remind me;)

I am so proud of my kiddos and can not wait to embark on next years journey with them!

Well, with another school year behind us summer has now begun!!!

Music Therapy Thursday...Better late than never!

2011-05-28T18:25:00.000-07:00

I have really dropped the ball on this blogging thing...I guess I should try harder but honestly don't have the will or want to do a lot right now. But I really wanted to share this song with all of you because it really means alot to me right now as I seem to be in one of life's valleys. It bring me alot of encouragement I hope it does so for you!

Blessings...Laura Story

We pray for blessings

We pray for peace

Comfort for family, protection while we sleep

We pray for healing, for prosperity

We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering

All the while, You hear each spoken need

Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops

What if Your healing comes through tears

What if a thousand sleepless nights Are what it takes to know You’re near

What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom

Your voice to hear

And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near

We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love

As if every promise from Your Word is not enough

All the while, You hear each desperate plea

And long that we'd have faith to believe

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops

What if Your healing comes through tears

What if a thousand sleepless nights Are what it takes to know You’re near

And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us

When darkness seems to win

We know the pain reminds this heart

That this is not, this is not our home

It's not our home

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops

What if Your healing comes through tears

And what if a thousand sleepless nights Are what it takes to know You’re near

What if my greatest disappointments

Or the aching of this life

Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy

And what if trials of this life

The rain, the storms, the hardest nights

Are Your mercies in disguise

Summer schedule

2011-05-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

With the school year drawing to an end and summer already upon us I have found myself to have a real lack of motivation. Is this a probelm...Well of course it is! I don't want to do anything. My house is a wreck, I am super unorganized and can't find much enegy to anything. I have decided I must get a good schedule in mind so I don't find myself bogged down this summer lost between house work, volunteer work, swimming lesson (Cooper) and swim team for my oldest 2. Normally we have tons of summer activities and outings planned but as I shared yesterday not so much the case this summer. So I do need to shape what we are doing into some kind of routine before there becomes none and then I truly would have my work cut our for me next year:) These are my ideas...

Bring back the chore chart...yes I have let this one go since we have been so busy I have been doing my childrens chores for them during the day so they don't have to at night. Since we will be homeschooling next year I am going to redo chores around here and they will have morning chores and evening chores. Plus I want them to have a little more responsibility so I am going to change what each is doing. Totally new expectations.

Actually start taking one day off a week as a family. I mean a real break. Since we are not having night activities at church this summer on Sunday nights I think that day will be on Sunday. Right now my family really just needs to be together...regroup!

Also I would like to start back our family devotion time. I have let this slip since we have been so busy in the evenings. I know it will be part of their schooling next year but it is important to do it as a family also.

Well those are my plans to get us back on a good schedule...How do all of you keep some kind of schedule over the summer?

Ideas anyone...

2011-05-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying I really should try to blog a little more regular but I have gotten a little lax in that area. Not because of a shortage of topics but due to insane pace of my life and well somethings I am just not ready to share. I am going to try to do better because I really do love to blog no matter the topic it is a little like therapy for me:) Anyway...

I have decided to take the summer off from my teaching duties at our church. I have been teaching children for almost 3 years now and love every minute of it. But really needed some time for rest, relaxation, regrouping and just being with my family...and a little time focused on making sure that I am feed spiritually. Also, I have TONS of planning to do since I will be homeschooling next year. And while all of my curriculum has been chosen I have still have some kinks to work out.

Since I will have a little free time on my hands this summer I was wondering if you of you had any suggestions on inexpensive or even better free activities I can do with my kids. Swimming is a given however since we are on the swim team:) Please please share your ideas. I had planned on going on a couple trips but I am not sure budget will allow. So any ideas are always welcome.

If I have any home school mom readers I was wondering do you have a "school room" or no? If no, where do you school at? Just wondering what works for others. We have a 4th bedroom that belongs to Cooper was his nursery then my sewing room and when him sharing with Duece didn't work out I moved him back into his room...I digress...He never sleeps in there because someone ( all fingers pointing to Michael) has started letting Cooper sleep with us! So I have pondered the idea of making it a craft/sewing/ computer/ school room! Ideas anyone!!!

College/Basic Training Survival Kits

2011-05-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

This year a couple seniors at our church are preparing to graduate high school! It is so hard for Michael and I to believe that 2 of the 4 are even old enough to be embarking on this considering we have know these two since they were about 9 years old. This 2 wonderful ladies have babysat for us, helped us with our kiddos at church functions, and well been like part of our family at times. So I decided to come up with some fun/funny little survival kits to give them as gifts. One is going to college while the other is going to basic training to become a Marine! I have done a little research and this is what I have come up with....Let me know what you think and of course if you think I have left anything out!

College Survival Kit:
Sm. laundry basket ( dual purpose so it can hold the loot)
hangers
laundry detergent
Air Freshener
Nice coffee mug
instant coffee
pens
pencils
highlighters
sm. personalized photo album
first aide kit
toilet paper
Kleenex
small screw driver kit

Basic Training Survival Kit ( I know she will not be able to take all these items with her when she leaves...but her mom sure can send them later:) )
Pens
Stamps
Paper
Envelopes
Chap stick
Sunscreen
first aide kit
small sewing kit
Kleenex
sm. personalized photo album
baby wipes
permanent markers
flashlight/batteries
Tylenol

Batch #1 has been delivered

2011-05-10T05:53:00.000-07:00

I am so EXCITED to be able to report 150 crayons and coloring books were delivered this weekend. I delivered 75 to my church to be taken to the Upper Sandmountain Parish and then 75 more were delivered to the shelter at the Arab Rec Center. While I will not accompany those delivered to my church I did get to speak to a lady at the Arab shelter who told us what a blessing those would be to the children there. She even confirmed what I had thought which was the children had lost everything and had little or nothing to keep them occupied.

While in Arab on Sunday Michael and I drove to the Ruth community which was hit rather hard. I was in search of children to encounter and actually give books to. On our first pass through the damage we saw no children went to the Fire Department spoke with some people and on our way out I prayed I would be able to see some children. As we drove out I saw several children at a destroyed trailor park. I got out with some coloring books approached the people and asked if I could share those with the children. When the children came around I told them what I had and Michael (who sat in the car with a sleeping Cooper) said their faces just lite up! I was so happy to bring some joy to them in this time of caos. A grandmother asked if she could have one. As we talked she told me where each family that was in the make shift tent had once lived. I couldn't even tell that trailors or homes of any form had once been there. I was heartbroken by the amount of loss in that small community.

It is apparent that the recovery is long from over. And these people need our continued prayer and support. Thank you to each of you who have helped with this project in anyway...I am blessed to know each of you and have you part of this adventure. Also, keep the coloring books coming I am praying to be able to send around 200 with Hewett's Youth on their upcoming mission trip into 2 very affected areas of Pleasent Grove and Tuscaloosa. Also, I would love to get some out to Hacklesburg and Phil Campell that were also devastated.

Many thanks again...You are all working as the hands and feet of God!

Crayons for Comfort Update

2011-05-06T07:05:00.000-07:00

I am so EXCITED!! I posted my project and a link to my blog on facebook and things really have taken off. I can't believe how kind and generous people are. A local business Sew Irrestiable offered to be a drop off site and then several members of my church have said they would bring crayons and coloring books to church on Sunday. Not to include many friends who have stepped up to help. The first batch has already exceeded it's goal and I hope to be able to send items to both the Upper Sand Mountain Parish via Hewett UMC and I will be delivering some to Arab Rec Center that is functioning as a shelter. I have been praying all afternoon over these crayons and coloring books that the children will see Gods love, mercy and grace through the pages. I hope the bring some much needed comfort to those children who are hurting.

Ok so another plea...I want to be able to deliver crayons and coloring books to each hit area...In order to do this I will need 100's more books. I am praying God will provide so we can reach as many children as possible. I know He is big enough to do just that.

Thank you everyone for your help so far...Keep them coming!

Crayons for Comfort

2011-05-03T14:45:00.000-07:00

As most of you know by now...if you have power that is. A rare tornado outbreak went on in a large portion of our country and it greatly affected Alabama the state in which I reside. Several EF4 and EF5 tornadoes reaped destruction across several communities and a number of them are rather close to our home. TVA the power co-op took a rough hit and a major portion of N. Alabama went with out power for days and many are still without power. The devastation is unreal and the numbers of lose are startling. But as we recover we know God is on His throne and He is in control.

After seeing the devastation via internet and news adn then hearing stories from my 10 year old daughter who went with my dad to aide friends in clean up whose home was destroyed I had been praying for God to show me a way we could be his hands and feet! Jesse and I were thinking about all the little children affected and got to thinking about how if there homes are destroyed then they would have little to comfort them. Children are simple and while a hug and a kiss are wonderful sometimes they need a little get away. So today after receiving an email from my pastor that our church would be collecting items to aide in relief in the "Upper Sand Mountain Parish" I thought we must send a little something for those sweet children who have lost so much. I had been thinking and praying about different ideas for a couple of days and while on the phone with my pastor decided crayons and coloring books along with a note would be a wonderful way to reach children of a wide age span.

So here I go...I was only going to ask the parents of my SPROUTS class that I teach if they would donate coloring books, crayons, and maybe some fruit snacks to package with our notes but then I thought why not go "viral". So if you would like to help out with what I am calling "Crayons for comfort" let me know and we can get your items package them and make sure they are delivered via our church to a distribution center. Our goal 50!

I pray Gods mighty blessings over this "goal" and over anyone touched or receiving any number of packages we might be able to put together.

Menu Making

2011-04-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

Often times people ask me how it is that we are able to afford for me to stay at home on Michael's new much smaller income. And one way I try to save tons of money is in the food department. I do this by making menus for the week ahead based off of what is on sale or mostly what meats are on sale or already in my freezer. I have to admit that I have come lazy in the checking sales department but it goes to prove that even you don't check the sales menu making can save tons of money. I normally try to spend less than $100 a week on food only stuff. I have a different budget for cleaning supplies and toiletries. Here is this weeks menu and incase you wonder my total this week was around $88.00 including Easter Candy!

Monday- Taco Salad

Tuesday- Stuffed shells I got this recipe here and decided to leave out the spinach since we don't like spinach

Wednesday- This is my small group week so I had to provide potatoes, butter, bacon and chives for the loaded baked potatoes we are having...YUMMY

Thursday- Pork chops green beans and corn

Friday-Cheeseburger meatloaf, mashed potatoes and pinto beans

I also purchased stuff to make fried potatoes with sausage but we ate at my dad's Sunday and had those leftovers...so that is a meal that can roll over to next week:)

Here are a couple money saving grocery store tips if you don't want to mess with coupons...

I always buy dried beans unless I only need a small amount and then I buy the store brand can.

I use mostly store brand products. Wal-Mart has a great store brand and it is very good quality.

I buy 90% of our meat on sale and only when it is on sale...Like I said above I have been a little lazy and not keeping up with it like I use to but I am getting back on the wagon with that:)

I don't buy tons of pre-packaged snack foods. Most cookies, crackers, chips, ect for the kids school snacks I package myself...unless they happen to be on sale.

I ONLY buy what we need for that weeks menu and I didn't enclose lunches and snacks on the above menu but of course I buy only what we need for those also.

Those are just a couple of my little tricks...And they really do save us money!

NO BUNNY!

2011-04-23T21:22:00.001-07:00

Ok I know we are not the only Christan family in the US that doesn't do the Easter Bunny...Are we? And why for the first time EVER did I feel like my kids were missing out on something? Ok back "history" for those of you who don't know us...

There was a time when Michael and I didn't see eye to eye on this whole religion thing. Not that he was against it but kind of thought God was out to get him ( that is a post for another day). So I was alone in that boat trying to lead 2 children in the way they should go. Long and short...Michael gets saved and well we sell out for Jesus...He did a wonderful work in us therefore deserving all the glory and credit. So when we decided to change our ways we decided to change up how we did Easter. Not that the bunny had ever been a huge deal but you know. So we decided no over the top baskets, no commercialism and NO BUNNY! Yeap I said it we did it!

We don't do the bunny. We make all the focus of that time of year be on Jesus and what He did for us. Yes before you flood my inbox we do baskets SMALL candy and some sort of devotional, book or you know the sorts. Like this year Duece is receiving a Bible, Jesse a worship cd and well Cooper is getting Color Wonder from crayola since he is way too young for a Bible and we have enough devotions and story books for his age group to start a toddler library. And our take on the egg thing is that when we decide to take up our cross and follow Jesus we become a new life. The egg for us is a symbol of the new creation we are in Him.

I digress...

We have always been happy with that choice. But for some reason as Cooper brought home coloring pages of sweet bunnies from his preschool and talked of Peter Cottontail I couldn't help but wonder...Are they missing out on something? Or have I actually done a good thing by focusing on the real reason we celebrate which is of course the empty tomb!

All my concern was put to rest as my sweet 2 year old crawled in my lap and told me that " Jesus hung high on a cross, got blood ( I think he means bled), and died." I asked him why Jesus did this and his answer was "He loves Cooker ( this is how he says his own name) and so I can go to heaven with Nonnie and Daddys Pawpaw!" Ok case closed...Jesus loves me, I love Jesus, and so do my kids!

Sunday is coming!

Good Friday

2011-04-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

The death of Jesus as it is told in the book of Matthew:

45 From the sixth hour until the ninth hour darkness came over all the land. 46 About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ""Eloi, Eloi," "lama" "sabachthani?""--which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" 47 When some of those standing there heard this, they said, "He's calling Elijah." 48 Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus to drink. 49 The rest said, "Now leave him alone. Let's see if Elijah comes to save him." 50 And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. 51 At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. 52 The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. 53 They came out of the tombs, and after Jesus' resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many people. 54 When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, "Surely he was the Son of God!" 55 Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs. 56 Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's sons.

I shared yesterday that Resurrection Sunday is my favorite religious holiday. I thought I might need to explain myself...The acts that took place over Holy Week were terrible and the very thoughts of them make me want to cringe. But the self-less love showed by Jesus was immeasurable and what He did for us to this very day amazes me. Celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus is my favorite holiday because it causes us to pause and realize what was REALLY done for us. I can't believe my King huge dying on a cross for me before He knew me to save me! I promise that is the ultimate love! As we observe Good Friday I almost want to hold my breath until Sunday when we all celebrate the empty tomb and our Risen Savior. But He rose ( the miracle of all miracles) as followers we should realize every day is worthy of celebration just for that reason...Because "We sing for the glory of a risen KING!"

Music Therapy Resurrection Edition!

2011-04-21T05:54:00.001-07:00

I can hardly contain myself as Sunday is drawing near...It is my most favorite of all holidays! It is Resurrection Sunday (Easter)! It really wasn't until I knew the unconditional love of Papa God that I began to LOVE this time of year. But as I have yielded to His love for me I realized the what was really done for me. So I am sharing Hillsong "Hosanna" this week as my Resurrection Sunday Edition. I can see the generation that they speak of and I believe we are raising that very generation now! Read...Enjoy...

Hosanna, hosanna

Hosanna in the highest

Hosanna, hosanna

Hosanna in the highest

I see the King of glory

Coming down the clouds with fire

The whole earth shakes, the whole earth shakes

I see His love and mercy

Washing over all our sin

The people sing, the people sing

Hosanna, hosanna

Hosanna in the highest

Hosanna, hosanna

Hosanna in the highest

I see a generation

Rising up to take the place

With selfless faith, selfless faith

I see a near revival

Stirring as we pray and seek

We're on our knees, we're on our knees

Hosanna, hosanna

Hosanna in the highest

Hosanna, hosanna

Hosanna in the highest

Hosanna, hosanna

Hosanna

Heal my heart and make it clean

Open up my eyes to the things unseen

Show me how to love like You have loved me

Break my heart for what breaks Yours

Everything I am for Your kingdom's cause

As I walk from earth into eternity

Hosanna, hosanna

Hosanna in the highest

Hosanna, hosanna

Hosanna in the highest

Music Therapy Thursday-Third Day!

2011-04-14T16:30:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist posting this wonderful song by Third Day titled "Love Song" for today's therapy. When I hear this song and sing its wonderful words I can almost hear Papa God singing them to me. I am overwhelmed by the love He pours out on us. And I think the Lent season is a perfect time to remember that He loved us so much He hung His only son on a cross to pay the price for us so we might receive what Jesus deserved which is eternal life with Papa. I have had a really rough last couple days and I needed this song for my own therapy today. Enjoy and know you are truly loved!

I've heard it said that a man would climb a mountain

Just to be with the one he loves

How many times has he broken that promise

It has never been done.

I've never climbed the highest mountain

But I walked the hill of calvary

Just to be with you, I'd do anything

There's no price I would not pay

Just to be with you, I'd give anything

I would give my life away.

I've heard it said that a man would swim the ocean

Just to be with the one he loves

How may times has he broken that promise

It can never be done

I've never swam the deepest ocean

But I walked upon the raging sea

I know that you don't understand

the fullness of My love

How I died upon the cross for your sins

And I know that you don't realize

how much that I gave you

But I promise, I would do it all again.

Just to be with you, I've done everything

There's no price I did not pay

Just to be with you, I gave everything

Yes, I gave my life away.

If it aint broke don't fix it...

2011-04-12T05:14:00.000-07:00

Ok this is possibly my new out look on birthday parties. Since I think somewhere in all the keeping up with the Jones we have lost sight of the simple pleasures all kids enjoy! So Duece is getting what I have been calling a "throw back" to the way it use to be done...with our spin on a few things:) I need to say right now that I DO make a BIG deal of birthday's at my house. Because when you have more than one child I think they need one day that is ALL about them and what they want to do with their little friends. Let me take you back... In February we attended a lovely birthday party at our local (ok hour away) Build-A-Bear. I thought it was a wonderful idea since the store does 90% of the work for you. Duece and I talked about having his there since it is his favorite store ever. But when he couldn't tighten up the invites to a manageable...I mean affordable number we had to come up with a different plan. Since our house is rather small I suggested the bouncy house. That was a NO! He didn't want to do the same thing as we were planning for Coops upcoming July b-day. Soooo since the use of our church is always free and I was trying so hard to rein in the budget (point of not doing B-A-B) I suggest we have it there and play REAL party games. Duece looked at me like I had grown an extra head as I explained that when I was a child we didn't have bouncy house, Build-A-Bear, or other outrageously priced parties that we played actual games at our parties. So ounce I sold him on a little pin-the-tail on the donkey, bean bag tossing, 3 legged race, musical chairs, face painting, fishing, and a horse race (using pool noodles) the planning began. We decided not to have a "theme" we would use a very gender neutral red and blue color scheme with lots of balloons and streamers! I think it is going to be alot of fun. I am going to set up several games inside and then a number of them outside split the kids into 2 groups let them rotate around to 3 of 7 games the switch saving "fishing" for last to collect their goodie bags. I have enlisted the help of several moms, friends, and grandparents to run the games. I think it is going to be alot of fun...He is excited and so am I. These games are sure to be a crowd pleaser:) I am happy to report that so far I haven't spent more than $20! And doing it on this budget I can actually offer lunch which Duece really wanted to do (I have no idea why). So if you ask me I think this is a wonderful way to celebrate a birthday...the old way! Because hey if it aint broke don't fix it...right?!?!

Cheeseburger Meat Loaf

2011-04-11T17:15:00.000-07:00

So many have asked me for this recipe. I have to admit it is super cheap, easy, and extra yummy! And I promise the kids will approve. I hope you enjoy. Cheeseburger Meatloaf 1 lb ground beef 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 3/4 cup uncooked regular oats 1/2 cup milk small onion chopped fine 1 lg egg 1 tsp worcestshire sauce 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp garlic powder 1/4 tsp pepper 1 cup chili sauce for topping ( located with the ketchup and condiments use as much or as little as you like) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine first 10 ingredients in a large bowl; stir just until blended. Shape into a loaf in a 13X9 pan or lace in an ungreased 8X4 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Pour chili sauce over top and back 15-30 more minutes or until no longer pink in the center. Let stand 10 minutes Drain and cut into 8 slices. To freeze: If you used meat that had not yet been frozen, you can freeze this uncooked. When you're ready to eat, thaw, and follow the above instructions for cooking. If your meat was already frozen, bake without chili sauce on top. Freeze. When you're ready to eat, thaw meatloaf. Pour chili sauce on top and heat in oven until hot.

Happy Birthday Duece!

2011-04-07T05:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to one of the "Best Little Boys I Know"! My Duece is 7 today and I almost can't believe it. It seems like yesterday that we were on our way to the hospital to have him. I promise I will never forget the day of his birth....things happened so quickly that my mother-in-law who lived an hour away almsot didn't make it. I think he was born something like 90 minutes after we checked in. He was the best baby slept wonderful and was so sweet and chubby. We have traded all that for a kind, compassionate heart, a total love for all people and a true childs heart for God. I believe Duece sets aside all stero-types for boys since he is not rough, rowdy and almost always really kind. Happy Birthday Duece Mommy and Daddy, Jesse and Cooper love you so much. *Photo from Duece's first day of 1st grade this year! Believe it or not he has already changed:)

Weight Loss

2011-04-06T15:04:00.000-07:00

One topic I don't usually touch here at the McClendon Madness is...Weight Loss! But I guess it is going to be touched on some now. I had some blood work done several weeks ago and went Friday to get the results. Most of it was normal but for my age my cholesterol was too high and well my hormones (the real reason for the test) were really out of whack. And while you may not think weight and hormones go together...they do! My BMI is way too high, I feel like crap most of the time, and I am no longer ovulating. So along with hormones to try to jump start the later I was strongly advised to drop some pounds. And while this was nothing new to me I was faced with it head on as something I now HAVE to do. So here's my plan and I am telling all of you (AKA the world) so I can/have to be accountable for what I am doing. My first step was joining the gym, I have to start moving around more I was way more sedentary than I had imagined. And for now I am eating the same just smaller portions. I want to do a total pantry over haul but I have to make food changes as money allows and since I have a full pantry I can't justify trashing it all. I also joined here to help me keep a log of my calories and how much moving I am actually doing. I feel like I am off to a great start! After logging the past 3 days on my counter I found while I was staying in my recommended 2000 calories I wasn't getting enough protein and was getting way too many carbs never mind if they are good or bad! I have some how talked a friend into joining me at the gym and we have been going every day and believe it or not I am still walking at least a mile a day in addition. I don't know if any of it will pay off but here is to hoping! I still have a long way to go but I am proud that I at least have started. I have alot to work on since I tend to be an emotional eater. But I am putting this one in God's hands and I will keep you posted and tell you what is and isn't working for me.

Duece's boldness (AKA longest post ever!)

2011-03-30T05:47:00.001-07:00

* Please don't forget to visit Linny for more information about that sweet little boy named Krill who's adoption in Russia was denied because he had Down Syndrome. My heart breaks for this sweet child of God and the wonderful parents that are fighting to bring him home. *

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. —Hebrews 4:15-16

Since I had decided to join Linny in a day of prayer I had to share a little about my son Duece who has taught me a little about prayer.

We know prayer is our direct line to Daddy and that He hears all our request even when we think He is not listening. He is our advocate always. I use to find it rather hard to openly talk with God. But then I experienced the power of prayer in more than one supernatural way and I guess you could say I was hooked. I love spending time soaking in the wonderful presence of God.

Ok back to Duece...Almost 3 years ago at church a sweet lady Mrs. Vada feel and was hurt entering our fellowship hall. Immediately Duece prayed for her and every single day since the he as prayed for Mrs. Vada for healing after her injury, for energy and so much more. Mrs. Vada did recover and did rather well and is now living just south of her in a Nursing Home. I was moved by Duece's trust in what God could do. I knew shortly after that he was going to be a prayer warrior of sorts. Duece is so sweet he prays for everything from moms headache, to dads safe drive to work, and so much more. He really understands that God wants you to tell it all to Him and Duece is bold enough to ask. He never misses a chance to pray for someone no matter the place or situation. But he had NEVER prayed for a stranger. And that brings me to Monday night...

After dropping Jesse off at gymnastics Duece and I decided to make a quick run to the grocery store. When he was getting out of the car he smashed his finger. Instead of getting our items I brought him home. Duece prayed the whole mile from the store to our house. But by the looks of things Michael and I thougth his finger was broken so off to the ER Duece and I went. When we got there Duece was a wreck he was so scared. So I prayed for calm and peace and Daddy delivered and helped calm Dueces nerves. The waiting room was pack and it was so busy due to several critical cases and the nurse said they had 3 in cardiac arrest...needless to say we with our smashed finger were in it for the long haul. A gentleman came in with his daughter after triage he sat down across from us. We over heard him telling the man next to him that he had surgery back in February to have his gallbladder removed and was swelling in his stomach and had fever in it. Then he raised his shirt and Duece looked at me and said "Mommy that mans tummy sure looks bad." I agreed and continued reading my magazine as Duece laid his head in my lap. The man went out to smoke and returned taking a seat on the other side of the room. About that time Duece sat up and said " Mommy we need to go and pray for that man and his tummy." I was floored asked Duece if he wanted me to go with him and he said yes. Duece approached the man asked if we could pray and Duece did! He laid his sweet hands on the mans stomach and prayed for him. It was amazing Dueces words were so sweet. After praying Duece didn't stick around long to see how the prayers had worked and shortly after the man was called back to his room.

I had to share with you the sweetness of the heart of my prayer warrior. He has asked many times if I thought the man was better. But we didn't get his name and I can't help put wonder myself. But I know one thing that man saw God in Duece, he saw the love a father has lavished on us. I can't be more proud to see my child out being the hands and feet of God.

Prayer is a very important part of my spiritual life and the frame work of my family. I think it is wonderful that God gave Duece the courage to branch out and pray for a stranger....And you know what it taught me that I need to be a little more like Duece.

“Thus says the Lord who made the earth, the Lord who formed it to establish it—the Lord is his name: Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known. —Jeremiah 33:2-3

NOTHING you need, desire, need advice on or whatever the case my be is too big for our Daddy in Heaven. He wants to hear from you and His heart does break for what breaks ours. Go boldly before Him and it is amazing what happens.

Oh yeah I was going to tell you the thing I learned from Duece....It was the next time Daddy is tugging my heart in the middle of Wal-Mart to pray for that sweet lady a row over....I will listen!

Will you join us?

2011-03-29T20:57:00.000-07:00

If you have a few minutes and your heart breaks for the orphanes of this world please visit Linny over at A Place Called Simplicity. She is asking for us to join her in a day of fasting and prayer for a sweet family who's adoption of a Russain child with Downs Syndrome was denined! Read her post entitled same as mine for all the information. My heart breaks for this family. I know God loves the orphane and His heart breaks for what breaks ours. So if you would please consider at least a special prayer for this family and the others she posted about today I know I would really appricate it along with Linny and the other families. And in case you wondered I don't personally know Linny I found her blog "blog hopping" one day and she really inspires me. I read it everday and Michael and the kids even enjoy reading it. She is the mother of 9 about to be ten sweet treasures. And most of her children are adopted orphanes and they are awaiting the final stages in adopting a sweet little boy that is HIV+! I believe that her and her family are in a wonderful ministry to sweet forgotten "street children" of far away countries. Read along I know she will inspire you and you might find something out about yourself along the way:)

Music Therapy Thursday

2011-03-24T14:13:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist posting this wonderful song today since I am feeling so thankful for my Heavenly Daddy's love! And plus it is Lent and this is a wonderful song about the love that was hung from a cross for us. I could talk all day about how it makes me feel to know someone loved me so much that before I was ever even a twinkle in my mothers eye they would die so I wouldn't have to pay for my sins. This is Casting Crowns "Glorious Day"" I hope you enjoy and know you are truly and deeply loved!

One day when Heaven was filled with His praises
One day when sin was as black as could be
Jesus came forth to be born of a virgin
Dwelt among men, my example is He
Word became flesh and the light shined among us His glory revealed

Living, He loved me
Dying, He saved me
Buried, He carried my sins far away
Rising, He justified freely forever
One day He’s coming
Oh glorious day, oh glorious day

One day they led Him up Calvary’s mountain
One day they nailed Him to die on a tree
Suffering anguish, despised and rejected
Bearing our sins, my Redeemer is He
Hands that healed nations, stretched out on a tree
And took the nails for me

One day the grave could conceal Him no longer
One day the stone rolled away from the door
Then He arose, over death He had conquered
Now He’s ascended, my Lord evermore
Death could not hold Him, the grave could not keep Him
From rising again

One day the trumpet will sound for His coming
One day the skies with His glories will shine
Wonderful day, my Beloved One, bringing My Savior, Jesus, is mine
Oh, glorious day

Spring is here

2011-03-22T05:01:00.000-07:00

I think it is safe to say that spring has arrived here in North-East Alabama! It has been warm for over a week straight and doesn't look to be "cooling" down any time in the near future. So that means spring and summer clothing inventory! I know I can't be the only person out there who hates changing out the seasons of my children's clothes. I actually dread it and I only do it twice a year. Of course I am constantly taking inventory. A quick once over the other day reveled to me that ALL 3 of my children were in need of clothing. Duece mostly needs shorts right now thanks to some WONDERFUL hand-me-downs from a good friend at church. Cooper he needs it all because he is stuck at a 2t bottoms!! Which is making me crazy because I have tons of adorable 3t clothes for him that were also hand-me-downs from the twin grandsons of some other wonderful friends at church. Now Jesse she always needs stuff and I always have trouble buying for her as we expect her to dress more modest than the "market" tends to market as trendy for her age! I know I will be doing some sewing for her I have already decided to make her Easter dress and some others for church. But I can't make it all and a shoping trip is in her near future.

I was wondering how often do you "change out the closet"? What do you do with the out of season clothes that you know will be making a next season return? And what if anything do you hold onto for future children/younger children? And does any one have ANY tips on where to find modest clothes for my 10 almost 11 year old daughter?

My inspiration and a little confirmation

2011-03-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

Ok so you might be wondering why on earth I posted Music Therapy Thursday on Wednesday? Well your guess is as good as mine...I just thought all day it was Thursday! I get confused easy I call it mommy brain:) Hope you enjoyed it a day early!

A while back God gave me a Bible verse and then a few weeks ago I received confirmation that it was a word from God when a friend said God was telling her to share it with me! I love a little confirmation when God is up to something GOOD! It was Psalm 30 mostly verse 11 which says...You turned my wailing into dancing, you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.

I have been going through something in my life that is really bringing me down or better yet Satan is using as a way to "get to me". This entire Psalm speaks to me and I truly believe one day and soon God will turn my wailing to dancing and cloth Michael and I with JOY! He is already showing His love and our cup runs over now. In the face of all our junk we have found our strength. I think our real journey has just begun so all prayers welcome.

I have a feeling I should share this entire Psalm I have a feeling SOMEONE out there needs to hear it.

Psalm 30
1. I will exalt you, O LORD, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me.
2. O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me.
3. O LORD, you brought me up from the grave ; you spared me from going down into the pit.
4. Sing to the LORD, you saints of his; praise his holy name.
5. For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.
6. When I felt secure, I said, "I will never be shaken."
7. O LORD, when you favored me, you made my mountain stand firm; but when you hid your face, I was dismayed.
8. To you, O LORD, I called; to the Lord I cried for mercy:
9. "What gain is there in my destruction, in my going down into the pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it proclaim your faithfulness?
10. Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me; O LORD, be my help."
11. You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,
12. that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.

Music Therapy Thursday

2011-03-16T08:35:00.000-07:00

Here is a little Sanctus Real "Lead Me". Michael and I LOVE this song. I was really wanting to share the video with you but can't from this old computer:( Here is a link to another blog sharing the video of the song and the reason behind the song you just have to scroll down a bit. While you are there check out her blog I LOVE LOVE LOVE her blog and enjoy reading it everyday. Anyway here you go ENJOY...

"Lead Me" Sanctus Real
I look around and see my wonderful life
Almost perfect from the outside
In picture frames I see my beautiful wife
Always smiling
But on the inside, I can hear her saying

"Lead me with strong hands
Stand up when I can't
Don't leave me hungry for love
Chasing dreams, what about us?
Show me you're willing to fight
That I'm still the love of your life
I know we call this our home
But I still feel alone."

I see their faces, look in their innocent eyes
They're just children from the outside
I'm working hard, I tell myself they'll be fine
They're independent
But on the inside, I can hear them saying

"Lead me with strong hands
Stand up when I can't
Don't leave me hungry for love
Chasing dreams, what about us?
Show me you're willing to fight
That I'm still the love of your life
I know we call this our home
But I still feel alone."

So Father, give me the strength
To be everything I am called to be
Oh, Father, show me the way
To lead themWon't you lead me?
To lead them with strong hands
To stand up when they can't
Don't want to leave them hungry for love
Chasing dreams that I could give up
I'll show them I'm willing to fight
And give them the best of my life
So we can call this out home
Lead me, 'cause I can't do this aloneFather, lead me, 'cause I can't do this alone

Music Therapy Thursday

2011-03-10T13:23:00.000-08:00

Today I needed to be up lifted and I thought that some of you might need a little also during this Lenten time. I have heard this song "Children of God" by Third Day several times and it really speaks to me I can't read or say the words without getting a lump in my throat. Read and enjoy and know you are loved!

Praise to the Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ
Our God and our King, to Him we will sing
In His great mercy, He has given us life
Now we can be called the children of God
Great is the Love that the Father has given us
He has delivered us
He has delivered us

Children of God, sing your song and rejoice
For the love that He has given us all
Children of God, by the blood of His Son
We have been redeemed and we can be called
Children of God Children of God

A mystery is revealed to the universe
The Father above has proven His love
Now we are free from the judgment that we deserve
And so we are called the children of God

We are the saints
We are the children
We've been redeemed
We've been forgiven
We are the sons and daughters of our God

40 Days or forever...

2011-03-09T19:28:00.000-08:00

Today is/was Ash Wednesday marking the beginning of the 40 days (not counting Sundays) before Resurection Sunday. I LOVE this time of year...I love how we slow down a little and really look at ourselves from within. I always make a point to be extra honest with myself and God but I really make an extra effort this time of year. I mean we are talking about the ultimate in love God hung his only son on a cross to pay for my sin...Do you even realize how huge that is? I have to admit I honestly don't. As a parent I kind of get it as I can't imagine nor would I want to what it would be like to hang my only child on that cross and as a parent of multiple children I sure can't imagine choosing one of them to die for the others. But that is exactly what Jesus did for us! As our pastor impositioned the ashes upon my forehead I said thank you and I love you to Jesus. My price is paid and I am humble, broken and grateful!

Most every year I have given up something during my Lenten observance. I normally try to take up something that brings me closer to God. This year my family decided to give up something as a family. We are giving up T.V between the hours of 7 and 8 pm. We don't watch alot of TV around here but during that time we do...Michael likes to relax that way after work and we "spend" time together watching TV at this time. We are giving that up to have more time for our family devotional and just being together. It is important for us to spend more time as a family since Michael's new job has insane hours. I am not sure if any of my family member would agree but if we can do this for 40 days I think we should do it forever!

I am the only person in my family giving something else up in addition to TV. I with a heavy heart that I need Divine wisdom and revelation on (before Satan drives me crazy with his lies!) I have decided to have a day of prayer and fasting every week. In addition to my normal prayer time. I have yet to decided what day it will be but I can promise you one thing I will let nothing stand in my way...I am seeking the above and know exactly where to find answers....In the arms of my Jesus.

Organize Your Life

2011-03-03T18:53:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago I posted about how I was joining my friend Lindsey to "Organize My Life". I haven't blogged much about it but I am on track to doing so. So far I have organized my calender, planner, sewing closet, Cooper's bedroom, all 3 kiddos closets, under my bathroom sink, Jesse's bathroom and her bedroom. I have been "busy" doing so! Well today is all about the cleaning schedule. And well I have tried several over the years and I have longed for one that would work for me because I have to admit I do general pick up and cleaning everyday but my laundry is always piled high and deep cleaning is often neglected:( So I am taking my cue from Lindsey and breaking it up day by day and I am going to see if that helps...maybe just maybe between my own schedule and the kids chore charts (which I might have to post on later) I will now be able to stay on top of things. Below is my new cleaning schedule...I promise a cleaning schedule update next week!

Monday: Living Room and Kitchen/Dining Room

Tuesday: Master Bedroom and Laundry Room

Wednesday: Bathrooms and change sheets (whole house)

Thursday: Catch up laundry, Dust Children’s bedrooms and vacuum

Friday: Catch up day-This will be the day that I finish up anything that I may not have been able to do during the week before the weekend. My hope is to have done everything during the week and really use this as my sewing day!

I plan to do 2 loads of laundry every day no matter what. Also, my older 2 children clean their own rooms but I will have to clean Cooper's with his help but it very well could find a permanent home on my schedule:) Also, not listed are things that are done every day such as general cleaning!

My #1 cleaning tip is...I always use Scrubbing Bubbles and A Mr.Clean Magic Eraser to clean my bath tub. Spray on the cleaner let it sit and you will literally be able to wipe off the dirt and grime leaving only a good rinse needed!

Come back next week to see if I have been able to make this new plan really work:)

Incase anybody wondered where I have been...

2011-03-02T06:21:00.000-08:00

I have had kids home sick last week and this week. I really enjoy blogging no matter the topic so I hope to get back to it ASAP and keep it regular. I was wondering what was on your minds? Any topics you would like for me to blog on? Here's what has been on my mind....Sickness, Church, God's Promises, Michael's new job, finances, homeschooling, upcoming summer, friendships, relationships, home improvement projects...all that just to name a few. Guess I will put them in a grab bag and just pick one when I start back blogging.

God has burdened me with something so if you have time could you just say a little prayer for myself and our family?! Thank you

Dancing In the Mindfields

2011-02-19T07:59:00.000-08:00

Michael and I celebrated a huge milestone on Thursday...Our 10 year wedding anniversary. I have to almost laugh out loud at the fact that when we said I do some people thought that we wouldn't make it 6 months more less 10 years. We give all credit and glory to Papa God who held us together in some of the roughest times one could imagine. But we KNOW His promises are true and we are meant to be a pair because we found His face in the face of addiction, abuse, adultery, lies, chaos and so much more. I thank Papa everyday for Michael he is hard working, loving, compassionate, he is my lover, and my very best friend. I look forward to many more memories and years together.

I heard this song today and I was thinking about using it for whenever we renew our vows (soon we hope). I changed up some of the words to fit our story...but you can find the "real" ones here. I hope you enjoy it. This one really speaks to what Michael and I have experienced. With God at the center of our marriage we have gone so far and His favor and blessing are really showing through. So I believe what Papa has done for us is a testimony to a Living, Miracle working, mountain moving God!

I was seventeen, you were twenty

The year we got engaged

Everyone said we were much too young

But we did it anyway

We bought our rings for forty each

From a pawn shop down the road

We made our vows and took the leap

Now ten years ago

We went dancing in the minefields

We went sailing in the storm

And it was harder than we dreamed

But I believe that's what the promise is for

"I do" are the two most famous last words

The beginning of the end

But to lose your life for another I've heard

Is a good place to begin'

Cause the only way to find your life

Is to lay your own life down

And I believe it's an easy price

For the life that we have found

And we're dancing in the minefields

We're sailing in the storm

This is harder than we dreamed

But I believe that's what the promise is for

So when I lose my way, find me

When I loose loves chains, bind me

At the end of all my faith, till the end of all my days

When I forget my name, remind me

'Cause we bear the light of the Son of Man

So there's nothing left to fear

So I'll walk with you in the shadow lands

Till the shadows disappear

'Cause he promised not to leave us

And his promises are true

So in the face of all this chaos, baby, I can dance with you

Sewing closet

2011-02-05T11:56:00.000-08:00

On yesterday's post I talked about trying to get myself more organized...I should have started all that today but hubby is working and I don't like to tackle the big jobs alone;)

I did however want to share with you my lasted organizing endeavor...I am getting rid of my sewing room and turning it back into Coopers room. Duece and Cooper have shared a room for just over a year and it is not working out. For one Cooper is scared of the beds in there and says he wants his crib back (which was a toddler bed when we took it down) so now he is sleeping in his pack-n-play in my bedroom. He also will not play in there he says it is Duece's room. So with homeschooling next year I decided that I wanted the boys to have separate spaces so that they have their own "corners" to retreat to after spending hours together. My sewing room is a mess and I have my work cut out for me! My great friend Lindsey has offered to help and I know her mad organizing skills joined with those of my other great friend Brandy could really help me turn my hall closet in to the most wonderful "sewing closet" there ever was! Watch out you two I will be calling on you for help...that is if I ever get motivated enough to start!

I was wondering if any of you reading had any good ideas on ways we can out fit that closet to keep it well organized for CHEAP!!!

Organizing your life

2011-02-04T06:55:00.000-08:00

My friend Lindsey over at Squeezing the Day has been following and working a organize your life challenge. I have been thinking about joining her and the others to organize myself a little more. I have always been rather on top of things but as of late have dropped the ball more than I care to admit. Yesterday it was about your to-do list and your planner so I am going to work on both today...I am a day behind but think I will play catch up and join her on this endeavor every week. I need to be better organized as we are going to be homeschooling next year and I want to be as effective as possible in all areas of my life. I don't know about you but I crave that feeling you get when you know your house is clean, everyone is fed and watered, clothes are done, kids are groomed and all task are complete. It makes me feel like I might actually have a handle on this crazy thing we call life. So hope on over and catch yourself up on organizing your life and check back next week and see how we are doing.

FEAR...Not anymore!

2011-01-28T05:24:00.000-08:00

This morning I went back and was reading a blog post on a blog I read regular. It was about being vulnerable and about FEAR. And as she poured out her heart about all the times Daddy,Papa had delivered her from fear she began to speak to those reading that might be in fear...With out warning my eyes filled with tears as I realized I was full of fear. With today being Michael's last day at a job he has been at for almost 12 years and starting his new job on Monday we are a mix of emotions and worry as we embark on this change in our lives. Daddy,Papa has been faithful during this whole process and I know He wasn't going to leave us just now!

We were facing some really tough calls concerning alot of things ( and I wont bore you with the details). But the enemy had sent fear so I might be tempted to stop my praise of my Heavenly Daddy. As I sat listening to the praise music coming across my computer speakers I felt overwhelmed to pray for Daddy, Papa to deliver me from those chains of fear and bondage. And you know what He did...right there in my bedroom. I love how He ALWAYS shows up just when I need him and am calling on him. His presence filled the room and I was at peace with all the changes ahead and I was FREE FROM THAT FEAR!

My prayer:
Daddy I love you and thank you for all the many blessings you have poured out on our family. I know you have rich favor for each of us and I know you don't want me to be under any yoke other than yours. Please take my fear banishing the enemy break all those chains I have let Satan hold me in. Daddy hold me in your arms so I know I am yours and lead me where you should have me go during this time of decision making. Please forgive me for ever allowing Satan to hold on to me. And thank you for breaking me free. I LOVE YOU!!!

He has heard our cry

2011-01-22T20:40:00.000-08:00

December 29, 2010 is a day I think I will NEVER forget. It was they day that Michael called home and told me that he was going to be out of work as of January 7. I was stunned and I have to admit a little angry. Being the wonderful husband he is he set out exploring other job options and I set out praying and asking other "prayer warriors" to join us in prayer. Michael was upset and felt like heaven couldn't hear his prayer leading me to cry out in ways I have never before in my life. Well, God heard our cry and Michael was given a job roughly 2 1/2 weeks after hearing the news. It was amazing what God was doing and since he had mountains of paper work and other "stuff" to work out before starting his new job we thought we would need something to tide us over but God provided even that some how the company Michael was currently working for that was about to close received enough work to keep going so much so Michael actually had to turn in and work out a two week notice. He starts his new job January 31. We know God opened a door but also some how was able to speed the process along softening the companies presidents heart enough that he took a chance on a "green horn" like Michael. Yes there was times that I thought it looked grim but a friend Lindsey had a prophetic word for our live (and I am paraphrasing here) she said " that whatever was coming in the future would be BETTER for us no matter how grim it appeared it was going to be something way better than what Michael currently had!" I was floored and I believe she was too.

I have told you all this to testify to God's goodness and the fact that HE is living and working even today in what we thought was a bad situation. God turned all things around and was faithful on ALL His promises to our family. I am at a lose of words to explain all the ways God's glory was and is shinning in this "change." Michael and I feel so blessed and loved up by our DADDY He had not forgotten us He herd our cry and He moved a mountain for us. We thank God for His many blessings and no matter what will continue to sing of His goodness all of our days. We are broken and humbled at His feet as He continues to pour His love all over us.

A little SPROUTS testimony

2011-01-22T05:00:00.000-08:00

About 3 years ago I started learning about the supernatural powers of God. Mostly through the healing of our son Cooper that left me wanting more and since that day I have strived for more...More of God, more of His spirit in me and more of His signs around me I have prayed for all of these and seen them each. But as an adult I have a hard time sharing the supernatural side of God with other adults. They don't want to believe what is happening saying it was for "another time" "things like that only happened in the Bible". And other likewise comments. Well NONE of that is true with children. A brief recap in case you don't know. I teach children's ministry at my church on Sunday nights. Our little group is called SPROUTS because we haven't came into our full "bloom" yet! Anyway I have been teaching them about our supernatural God and His power for over a year now so what happened last Sunday night should not have surprised me but it did.

Our lesson was about the "Gift of the Holy Spirit." It was a wonderful lesson about how the Holy Spirit was Jesus' power and how it is ours to do as the Bible says all the things He did and even greater. We ended our lesson with a question..."Who wants to try out their power?!?!" Oh yes I went there with no less than 14 kiddos under the age of 10 and 3 other adults in the room looking at me like what have you gotten us in to. So I proceeded "Is anyone sick?" NOPE! I thought great. So I said "Does anyone hurt anywhere?" My daughter shyly said " I feel on the ice last week and my thigh is throbbing and has a huge ugly bruise on it." I knew of this fall and of this bruise that was rather nasty and I knew of the pain it had caused her all week. So we circled up around Jesse and laid hands on her. Then I climbed out on another limb the one that led me to say " Mrs. Hollie isn't going to do the praying so which one of you would like to?" Only a couple hands went up we had 2 volunteers to pray out loud Gracie and my son Duece. With others Chase, Alyssa and Emily joining to pray in their spirits. Gracie prayed out loud once then asked "Jesse how does it feel?" Jesse said it felt better but the bruise was still there so Gracie decided we needed to keep praying until the ugly mark disappeared. She prayed again and the bruise started to fade then prayed once more and the whole class began to see marked difference in the color!!! I was stunned by what God was doing through some kids. At the end I promised to keep them updated on Jesse's bruise improvement and as we dismissed we had children asking "can we do this at home," "can I use this to impact my life," and I even offered to take them on a "treasure hunt" to seek out others to pray for and unleash this new power. By Monday Jesse's bruise was faded even more and is completely gone now.

I guess after more than a year in children's ministry I was beginning to get burnt out and even considered giving up my SPROUTS. But this experience was a sign from God that He has me right where He wants me doing what He wants me to do. I am teaching children how to "bring heaven to earth!" Powerful right...I should never be amazed how God chooses to use those children, or myself, or that class even. Those kids sure do have big grown up dreams of all the things they can do with their power. I hope as time goes on and we see more fruit of this ministry I am able to share even more amazing testimony about what God is using these children to do!

Music Therapy Thursday

2011-01-20T14:49:00.000-08:00

"Oh how glad and happy when we meet, I'll fly away. No more cold, iron shackles on my feet, I'll fly away!" This one's for Mike and Elaine!

I am joining my dear blogging friend Lindsey over at squeezing the day for "Music Therapy Thursdays". I would like to begin posting them each week and thought this song was perfect for this week. Michael and I have a dear friend from church Elaine who lost her husband rather suddenly Wednesday. I know heaven's sweet chorus got sweeter as Mike (or Santa as we know him) joined them playing his bass! I hope you all enjoy this posting!

That's My King Dr. S.M. Lockridge

2011-01-17T07:24:00.000-08:00

I have been surrounded by God's wonderful power the past few days and weeks. And I wanted to share this video because my dear friend Lindsey hadn't seen it and I thought it was wonderful to share!

Just because I needed reminded how wonder our God is...

2011-01-14T19:42:00.000-08:00

The past couple weeks have been rough as Michael is in the market for a new job and so many things are up in the air for our family. I decided after God had worked in a powerful way this week that I wanted to share for the first time something amazing God had done for me a couple months ago. I might one day share what HE did this week but for now I want to share this as a reminder to myself and all of you how wonderful our God is...

As you know my family for the past 2 summers has traveled out of state to a United Methodist Conference on Spirit-filled living "Aldersgate". It is a wonderful time with like minded people who share our faith, love and belief in the miracle working, powerful, supernatural GOD! On the second day ( I think) the morning speaker was Randy Clark. I actually got to ride the hotel shuttle to the conference center with him but of course didn't introduce myself...now I wish I had! Anyway Randy gave a wonderful talk sharing testimony about some almost unbelievable things God was doing in his ministry. He told of some people "being healed of metal in their bodies." "Hum," I thought my body is full of metal (from a car accident sum 10 years ago) could God heal me of this and all my pain? So at the end Randy asked all those in the room with metal in their bodies to stand he offered a sort of mass prayer over those standing that God would heal their pain and/or even make the metal disappear (as HE had seen before). He said if we saw any improvement at all to clap....Well I didn't feel improvement right away but I stood there as Randy prayed more, Michael with his hand on my leg praying and me in all my faith believing God could heal ME! It was on my way out to get my children after the session as I climb some stairs that I realized I didn't hurt, my knee wasn't swollen and I had some feeling there where there hadn't been. I waited until we walked 3 blocks to get some lunch to tell Michael and our children. I was stunned, they were stunned but we were so thankful. I had been in pain from this for just shy of 10 years at the time of the healing. At lunch I shared the good news with my pastor and his wife and some other traveling with us. That was in July I still do NOT have pain in that knee. Yes there are days when I am tired and have pressed my body to far that I realize that my knee is tired but not painful! God healed my knee. I still have metal but no pain. I think I needed to praise God for that today and share it with you.

God can still work miracles HE is not out of the business. He is supernatural, powerful, breathtaking, all knowing, mighty and the Most high. I think sometimes I get so caught up in what is going "wrong" in my life that I need to remember the works HE has done for me. I praise his name now and forever!

The Christmas letter that never was...

2010-12-31T09:52:00.000-08:00

As 2010 is nearing it's end I thought I would share the "Christmas letter" that never was. Ok I wrote this in November to enclose with our Christmas cards...Which I decided to not send (in order to save money). I had thought of sending them as New Year's "updates" to our friends and family but didn't do that either. It is a wonderful yet short recap of what the McClendon's have been up to. I am not editing it for bloggy purposes so it is what it is. Enjoy and Happy New Year to you all!!!

Greetings Family and Friends it has been a couple years since we last sent out a little note of what we have been up to! We are so excited to take a minute so you can all catch up. This past year a lot of great things happened so what better time than now for an update.

Michael is still hard at work at the same company. Logging 11 years this past June. It is great to still have a job after the rough ups and downs of our economy. Hollie has been hard at work with PTO, church, new volunteer endeavors, sewing, and of course child rearing! We led our family on a wonderful trip to West Virginia to participate in a United Methodist Conference called Aldersgate. It was a wonderful time and we look to make it a yearly tradition no matter the ever-changing location.

Jesse turned 10 this year and is a “senior” at her elementary school. It is hard to believe she will be in middle school next year. We are over the moon happy to report all A’s! After a jammed packed school year last year Jesse decided to drop dance and make gymnastics her main focus with a lot of swim team and soccer mixed in!

Duece turned 6 this year and had a milestone of his own…he is the “freshman” at their elementary school. He too has worked really hard and we couldn’t be happier about all A’s from him. Duece like Jesse added swim team to his agenda and he LOVED it. The child who never liked sports has found his niche! YAY He too still enjoys gymnastics. He and Jesse are both still actively involved in children’s choir and other areas of our church.

Cooper celebrated his 2nd birthday. As a matter of fact the last “update” letter we sent he hadn’t even been born yet! He started preschool at Kiddie Kollege this fall and is in love with it and his teachers. This sweet little boy has added so much to our family.

WOW, a lot has happened and we wish we could share it all. We hope we hit all the highlights! 2010 has been a wonderful year and we know God is going to do even greater things in 2011 and we can’t wait to see what they are. We leave you with many wishes of a wonderful and blessed Christmas season! Until next year…

Much Love,
Michael, Hollie, Jesse, Duece, and Cooper
*You can now follow all the madness of the McClendon household at: www.mcclendonmadness.blogspot.com

I will praise you in this storm...

2010-12-29T18:35:00.000-08:00

Wow talk about a whirl wind week of events. Just as our Christmas celebrations came to an end, our food finally began to settle and just a day after the garbage truck took all the boxes away...Michael and I got a tough blow that we had been kind of expecting but at the same time praying God would prevent. Michael found out today (Wednesday) that he is going to be loosing his job after next Friday. After 11 years of hard work and dedication it is just going to be OVER. No chance at un-employment (as his boss didn't pay in) and no severance. Like I said it was not a huge shock but never-the-less it was tough pill to take. My first emotion as he told me was " I can't let the kids know I am upset, he can't know I am worried...Must keep it all in." That gave way to a sobbing break down what followed next surprised me I was ANGRY! I was mad that not only would his boss lose his company but our "rug" would also be pulled out from under us. So many hopes and dreams seemed to flash before my eyes. I think I could have spit nails that very moment. I guess I shouldn't have been surprised though as I prayed all afternoon for peace and understanding my anger was replace by these very words that sprang from my lips before I even knew I was speaking them out load..."God no matter what happens or how hard it gets we will continue to serve you and praise your wonderful name!" Oh yeah I said it and for a half a second as Michael looked at my I thought I had LOST my mind. But Michael said " I know Momma that is what it is all about we have to have faith!" Ha we were on the same page and knowing that made me feel so much better.

So looks like Michael is on the market or should I say in the market for a new job. I don't think either of us care about where it is or what the pay is as long as we aer all together with a roof over our heads, clothes on our backs and food to each God will work everything else out. It is scary but we know the only way not to worry ourselves to death is to hand this one over to the ONE who can fix it all because sometimes things are just so broken only our Daddy above can repair them for us. I know this road may not be easy but we have faith He will make a way and we are only speaking life into this situation because God's promises are real and we believe He can do the things he says he can do!

I am still worried about the zillions of changes this will bring on for us. I don't think Michael and I even know the fullness of those changes. I also worry about the kids I don't want this to impact them in such a way that they too become angry but I am handing that over to God also. I know what kind of kids I have been trying to raise and I believe they will be understanding and take things as they come all while praising the One above just as Michael and I do.

Nothing in this life is certain other than life and death. But I know a comforter that can help me through it all and you better believe that before our feet hit the pavement our knees will be hitting the ground for His direction.

One last thing please join us in prayer over this situation that Michael might find work easily and that I too might find something if need be, pray please that God would let His plan be worked out here and not our own. And please speak positive things over and into this for us. We love you all and are thankful to be surrounded with some wonderful friends and family.

Simply the best

2010-12-29T06:33:00.000-08:00

Sorry I missed posting on Christmas so Merry Christmas and before I forget Happy New Year!

I have to say that this Christmas was the best one we have had in our married life. It was simple and WHITE. We had decided a couple of years ago that our children would only receive 3 gifts, then one from each other and a family gift. But we really set out to simplify not only what they received but all our other giving. This season is not about all those electronics or labels on the clothes under your tree but about our Saviors birth. Our goal..."Get back to the real reason we celebrate!"

It was wonderful we spent time with family and friends. Enjoying each others company and lots of wonderful food. Christmas morning was extra special as we noticed it started to snow while unwrapping gifts. I think a white Christmas in north Alabama is a true Christmas miracle. We sang happy birthday to Jesus, went out for breakfast, then played in the snow and my wonderful hubby and older children built us a snowman! I think the snow was the best gift I could have received. For several hours my children weren't wrapped up in what was being given or received but enjoying God's Christmas gift to them...SNOW!

I thank God for the tug at my heart to simplify...I thank Him for giving us a chance to get it right. There are no words to truly explain the feelings Michael and I felt wrapped in HIS love this Christmas. This one was simply the best and way better than all the rest:)

His plan and not my own

2010-12-24T09:32:00.000-08:00

With Christmas fast approaching Michael and I had some really tough decisions to make not to be taken lightly! I was stressed, overworked, depressed and BUSY. It was after explaining to my friend the effects some of those "changes" that I realized I was indeed busy but not in the way you are thinking I was B.U.S.Y...Being under Satan's yoke. I had somewhere in all of the overwhelming thoughts in my mind left my "easy yoke" and taken up another. She told me I needed to hold true to the things I knew God was promising and remember He is still in the miracle making business.

Why is it that I so easily fall victim to Satan's scheme? I don't know...But I do know the true miracle of Christmas the virgin birth of my savior is something amazing to celebrate. I guess you can say Satan got his way I felt I didn't have anything to celebrate...But I do!!! Jesus was born and died so that I would NEVER have to live in hell or suffer the true cost of my sin. I will stand on that and declare he (Satan) has no rule over my life, I will not live in fear and in this very moment of tough decisions I will take this opportunity to "live out my faith" so all can see! It is after all HIS plan and not my own...

I did it on a budget

2010-12-22T07:59:00.000-08:00

I am so proud of myself, I even asked Michael if I could have an award this Christmas. Our extreme frugality has been in practice around here for a bit and I was trying that concept on in regards to Christmas. I sat down last night and figured out how much we had spent this year and was stunned that we came in just under $700. That includes all 3 of our children and the zillions of other gifts we give like to teacher, Sunday school teachers, and such. Of course I made a lot of gifts including stationary, etched containers, aprons and pjs. And I didn't send Christmas cards to anyone that wasn't family and didn't live out of state. I know some of you are thinking that my children will suffer or that others received junk from us but it wasn't so. Of course the norm was practiced with the children receiving 3 gifts each just like the baby Jesus did and one "group" gift. This allows us to get them 3 great gifts and not 20 little things. We like it and they do to... and since we don't do Santa around here it is well understood how it all works! I was happy to start getting the focus on the true reason for the season and not so much on "stuff." (Remember God is working with me on this big time) I am excited to see every ones faces when they open the gifts I have made for them or painstakingly picked out for them. I am happy to spread a little more of the "It's the thought not the gift" spirit around:)

2010-12-17T12:46:00.000-08:00

A dear friend of mine Lindsey over at squeezingtheday does music therapy Thursday each week. And just yesterday she shared "Ava Maria" the English version. Leaving me moved beyond anything I had ever heard was a song that showed the heart of the mother of Jesus. As she and I talked about the song and it's meaning and such I told her how another song all about Mary was moving me in ways never before this Christmas season so I wanted to share those lyrics with you!

Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day walk on water?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you've delivered, will soon deliver you.

Mary did you know that your baby boy will give sight to a blind man?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will calm a storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angels trod?
And when you kiss your little baby, you have kissed the face of God.

The blind will see, the deaf will hear and the dead will live again.
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak, the praises of the lamb.

Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy is heaven's perfect Lamb?
This sleeping child you're holding is the great I am.

The last 4 lines posted above shake my soul every single time I hear them, read them or even see them. I wonder about Mary what it was like to be a young lady unwed and carrying the Messiah. I know what it is like to be unwed and pregnant. But the fact that the child she bore was the "Great I am" is almost to hard for even my Christian mind to get a handle on! I wonder if Mary knew what it would be like...I wonder what Jesus was like as a child....I wonder what Joseph thought as she delivered that sweet baby in a lowly manger. I am over come with emotion as i think of my King laying in a manger that night of His birth or how Mary must have felt so alone with no "comforts" for her new little one. The number one thing I have wondered endlessly about is did Mary know that her son my King was destine for the cross. Did she know that He would pay for MY sins before I was even a twinkle in someones eye? I don't know if I could have been a willing servant if I had known my sinless son would die for someone else. Lastly I share Lindsey's same thoughts....We often think favor from God means or lives or our families lives will be easy but when you think of Mary God showed her what I believe is ultimate in favor as she carried the Messiah and I know her life was no to easy as Jesus began his ministry. I am thankful for Mary and her willingness to do what she was called to do and I am so thankful for my King who lived as a man to die on a cross just so I wouldn't have to! I am happy to celebrate His birth!

Happy with simplicity

2010-12-16T09:59:00.000-08:00

For quite some time now God has been transforming the hearts of both Michael and I... There so many details I want to share but am unable to but one thing I can say is simplicity is something we are working on right now. Most people assume that since I stay at home we are in some insane high tax bracket but it is the opposite we make sacrifices so I can be at home with our children. So simplicity is not a new concept but almost a way of life for me the happy with it part is what God has been working on me with. And now is starting to work on Michael about. We have always tried tiredly to "Keep up with the Jones" you know new car, nice clothes, bigger house, you get the idea. And for Michael simplicity to him means he isn't providing for our needs.
But I don't see it that way here is what God has done to my thinking of simplicity...

I for a long time thought about living simply was doing without or not having things you desire. But my God showed me otherwise. If He blesses me with a fortune it is not mine but His and I should use it to do His work furthering the Kingdom and blessing the socks off of people! RIGHT? I am to be in this world not of it. I want to put the "Jones and their stuff" aside and realize I could do more for my God and His Kingdom with a more simple state of mind. God is tugging on our hearts to do something big something different something that will take resources. And I KNOW that if I were more simple I could do just what He wanted of me. As Michael and I work to rethink how we see these things we are also training our children to be content with simplicity. I don't want children who are so consumed with what other have that they aren't able to see the true blessings in life. Because for me I was consumed with an appearance and not able to be who God was really calling me to be. Call me radical but I would rather have nothing and KNOW that I served my King and did exactly what He was calling me to do!

I leave you with this not because it has anything to do with my post but because I can't get it off my mind. My pastor in his sermon last Sunday said this and I can't stop chewing on it..."A family is a powerful tool in and for the Kingdom of God." As I said I can't stop chewing on this one this week. (Jeff I hope you don't mind me quoting you and I hope I didn't mess the quote up!)

The Big 3-0

2010-12-02T12:13:00.000-08:00

Today is my wonderful hubby's 30th birthday! He can't believe it and thought he would all of the sudden feel and look old. HA I told him this morning I was surprised none of his organs had shut down or his hair changed colors over night! No really he was a little sad I however think it is wonderful. The true miracle here is that we are celebrating his 11th birthday together. 11 years ago today I went to our cities Christmas parade with Michael and never in a million years saw myself married to him or having his babies. But God had a great plan in store and here we are celebrating his big 3-0 I am so happy. I can't believe all we have over come in 11 years and I know I can't wait to see what else is in store. Happy Birthday baby I love you!

He is our portion

2010-12-01T07:16:00.000-08:00

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air, they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not more valuable than they? Who of you by worry can add a single hour to your life?" Matthew 6:25-27

I have always thought of God as my portion and "He is enough for me!" But with so many worldly worries and trails it is easy to loose sight of the one who always comes through and always provides.

It is no secret that we at this household make many a sacrifice so that I can stay home and care for our children, my husband and our household. And due to the state of our economy, lack of work and endless rainy days things are a little tighter around here. We don't complain (OK well a little) because we are so strongly tied to our decision for me to be at home and we know this too will pass. But God showed his glorious face to me by making a way and providing big for us this week and taking a huge load off with the approaching holiday. No we aren't rich all of the sudden but He took alot of worry away and I am so grateful for that.

Just when it seems like things are a mess God always seems to show up in my life and most of the time He is showing out! His favor upon myself and my family is great almost unmeasurable at times. We know one day his plan will be so clear to us and we will know his provision even more. I cling tightly to His biblical promises and to the ones He has given my heart. He is our portion and has been and will always be enough for us.

Thankful Thursday

2010-11-25T04:32:00.000-08:00

As you know for the month of November on Thursday's I have been writing about things I am thankful for. I have been thankful for my savior, veterans, my husband, children, family and friends. Through this I have realized I have so much to be thankful for that the "list" could go on for ever. God has blessed me and my family beyond worldly measure in so many area it is hard to contain it in a list. I could ramble on for hours and get no where but the one thing I think I want to stress is we should be thankful all year and not just today! I do have one last thing I am thankful for that I wanted to note...

I am thankful for life! Mine, my husbands, my children's...well every one's!! Life is a gift not to go without recognizing it can be short or long but what you do with it and who and what you serve is up to you. I chose to serve the most awesome real God and I chose to be wife, mommy, volunteer and whatever else hat I can pull out. But I think all that would be for not if I didn't have Jesus the giver of life at the very center of it all. So I am thankful for life and without being repetitive I am thankful for the One who died so I could have it so wonderfully.

Happy Thanksgiving to all my family and friends. I love you and count myself blessed that you are part of our lives. Might we remember to be thankful all year!

Thanksgiving Feast

2010-11-24T05:07:00.000-08:00

I never thought that I would be cooking an entire Thanksgiving meal alone. But these year I am. And I have to admit I am not at all excited nor am I happy to be having Thanksgiving "alone." Well I wont actually be alone but it will only be me, Michael, the boys and my brother Adam. Jesse is going to the beach with my dad and we aren't doing anything with Michael's family. So I was left in a predicament....I could usher all of us to a restaurant or start our own new tradition. We have spent every Thanksgiving since we have been married with Michael's mom and step-dad except last year which we spent with my dad. And when my mom was alive we actually had 2 Thanksgivings so we could have one with my fam. I will totally miss my mom this time she made the best dressing I am sure mine will never be as good as hers. I thought I would share our menu with all of you for fun!

McClendon Thanksgiving Menu:
Ham
Fried Turkey
Dressing
Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
Green bean Casserole
Mac-n-Cheese
Rolls
German Chocolate Cake
Pumpkin pie

As much as I am not looking forward to cooking all of this I am looking forward to eating it! What will you feast on tomorrow?

In need of motivation...Got any?

2010-11-19T12:42:00.000-08:00

The chaos that is my brain has thrown up in my house! I am serious my mental state has been shall we say scattered. I don't have a handle on anything and you can FORGET time management....I have none. It is that time of year where my "plate" is far too full, my mind in shambles and my pocket book starting to squeak as it is pulled so tight. Now every room in my house is suffering and in bad need of a TON of TLC. I have a chart hung on my fridge outlining my daily cleaning schedule, yeah right! I haven't done anything in days and am so far behind on my sewing that people are wondering if the "dog ate my homework" aka that lovely outfit they ordered. I am going insane over my lack of motivation or care. I don't seem to mind the mess thus wondering, about that dirty floor maybe if we let the dog in she could lick it clean, hopefully nobody will fall upon arrival at hour house considering all the toys in the floor, and that bathroom DO NOT LET A GUEST ENTER IT THEY WILL NOT COME OUT!!!! It is nuts and I must get it under control I can't handle another minute of the madness. Come heck or high water I have to do something about it. This house is affecting my mood, not to my surprise...I don't really like my house! I have done a million things to make it make me happy but nothing helps. I must get it under control and clean so I can start having something to take pride in. My mind is wondering, my thoughts a trillion different places and I can't seem to make myself start never mind finish anything. I NEED MOTIVATION...GOT ANY????

Thankful Thursday

2010-11-18T07:59:00.000-08:00

Wow I didn't realize there wasn't many Thursdays in November. I have so much to be thankful for I am going to have a hard time getting it all in over the next two "Thursday" post. This week I am thankful for family. My wonderful husband and amazing children!

I have one amazing husband. He works a very hard physically demanding job rain, shine, hot or cold to provide for our family so I can stay at home. I have to say there is NOTHING easy about his job or the boss he has. But in this economy and his field of work that job in itself is something to be thankful for! After work he comes home and helps me with the children and even helps with the housework. He is so realistic in that he knows being a stay-at-home mom to 3 kids with full schedules and her own hectic schedule is a BUSY HARD JOB! He is very understanding if the rough end drags a little or alot and is always ready to help out and pick up my slack. He is also a pretty loving guy...Ok he is really loving! I can't imagine my life without him we as sappy as it sounds complete each other to make a PERFECT team. I know God hand picked us to be with each other. I am thankful for Michael in more ways than we have time to even list...I have a great man.

I am also thankful and count myself blessed by Gods unmeasurable favor to have 3 amazing children. All of which are healthy and mostly happy;) Jesse my oldest is a helper always willing to lend a hand no matter the task. She even helps look after Cooper is I need to take care of something or do a little "work". She is a eager learned both at school and home a wonderful student and a great friend to her mom! Duece my middle child (who has the middle child syndrome in the bag) is a really mommas boy I am so glad. He is a lover not always the most productive you should see his room and the number of tissues used to dry his tears during chore time! This kid stands up for what he believes in and is very kind and caring. Now Cooper...well he is 2!!!! And I think I could leave it there. Aside from fits and rages he is a pretty great kid very loving but all boy. And he loves him some football already I think that might actually be a prayer Micheal prayed that was answered. All joking aside I am blessed and feel like God was showing His favor on me by giving them to us! I hope that in the future He might show us a little more favor in this area;) Pick you lip up you knew that was coming!

And with out being too general I am thankful for family... parents, brothers and sister, in-laws, grandparents, cousins and all. I think we have been blessed and cursed in this area. While we have wonderful relationships with some of our family there are others we only see at holidays and it makes me sad. But we have friends who are like family and that is a wonderful blessing. But am a thankful for family no matter what. They are sometimes all you have.

I am also thankful for friends! This is one area I know we are so very blessed. As stated above we have friends who are like family to us. They always make up for any lacking family relationships and support us so much. We love them more than any of them even know they are a very big part of our life!

We are not only thankful but also blessed!

Santa Came Early...

2010-11-13T11:53:00.000-08:00

And this is what I got!

I have been sewing for quite some time on a borrowed machine and now I finally have my own!

Back a year and a half ago I started sewing and I loved it. My good friend Ellen let me borrow a machine and dew to rough economic times I hadn't been able to buy my own. But as they say good things come to those who wait. And I got a new "brother" machine for Christmas...even better it was early:) I am so excited it is computerized has 50 stitches, 80 functions and 5 button hole settings and is SOOO easy to use. My other good friend Jennifer has been sewing on one of these for about a year and LOVES it so I got the same kind. I totally recommend it if you are in the market for one. I know I have already used it and plan to put it to good use sewing Christmas gifts I am making, thus the reason I received it over 1 month early. Well gotta go I can't wait to get back in my sewing room!

A huge thank you to Ellen for letting be use hers so long! And to Jennifer for recommending this one to me I know it and I are going to be great friends!

Just for Mom

2010-11-12T08:58:00.000-08:00

Today my heart aches as the memories of the day I lost my wonderful mom come flooding back. I have said many times this week that there days when it seems like it happened 24 hours ago and then there days when it seems like it happened 20 years ago. Instead it has been 7 years. Boy how my life has changed and with each new adventure I long for her by my side even more.

My mom was diagnosed with Leukemia in January of 2003 and died one month shy of her 38Th birthday on November 12, 2003. The events of that day and the days following it are forever etched into my brain. After being admitted to the hospital 3 weeks before my mom had began chemo and ended up very sick and on a ventilator. While she was in ICU so much was going on I was pregnant with my second child Duece and my sister Hillary gave birth to her son Taylor all while our brother was a freshman in high school. I spent many days in Birmingham with my family but also many days at home with Jesse trying to keep her life "normal" which is what my mom wanted me to do most. I remember thinking about how she had already "beat" this once before and we would weather this storm and she would come home. I kept telling myself and Jesse that. I was wrong...She got more and more sick as time went on. On the morning of November 12 my dad called and woke me up. He told me that my moms organs were starting to shut down and that she had little brain activity (had been on the vent more than 3 weeks) and that she wouldn't make it until the night. I had a very hard choice to make leave and go be by her side or stay at home with Jesse. I chose to stay home with Jesse. I thought this is what my mom would have wanted me to do. Now looking back I wish I had of left Jesse with friends to go and be by her side. The next couple days were insane they came and went in the blink of an eye. During all of this my sister had her birthday major crappy right?

I still have tons of unresolved emotions from that day. I was pregnant with Duece (a pregnancy that already was a little rocky) and didn't want my stress or grieving to be hinder the developing baby. To this day I know I still haven't grieved like I should for what I lost. I miss my mom so much and there is almost not one day that goes by that I don't miss her. I know her heavenly Daddy longed to have her in heaven with him so He called her home. I also know that no matter how badly she or I would love for her to be here there is no way she would leave the wonders of heaven to be with me. She instead waits for me, my siblings, father and her grandchildren at those pearly gates. Knowing all of that brings me alot of comfort.

For a long time I had been questioning why God would take this wonderful special person from me. I will never know why and it is not my place to question God. But I have learned God gives and He takes away...And as the song goes "My heart will chose to say BLESSED be His name." I can't wait to get to heaven and see what my mom thinks of who I have become but most of all I can't wait to give her a hug and have a LONG talk. The one thing I miss the most about her for myself is how she use to call me every single day so by then the LONG talk will be much needed!

Mom,

I do miss you so much and my heart almost longs for the day that you and I will be together again. But God has called me for things on this earth that are yet to be done. And you have 3 grand babies who need me to shape and nurture them as you did us. So until then please watch over us everyday and save us a nice spot on that cloud you might be perched upon. Put in a good word for dad I am afraid he might need it. We love you and while you are gone from our lives your impact will never be forgotten. I love you!

Picture Blog For Mom

2010-11-12T07:03:00.000-08:00

Because I wanted to honor my mom today I thought I would share pictures of her along her life. I unfortunately don't have as many as I would like to have but she really didn't like having her picture taken. I hope you will enjoy and I hope for family it brings back all the good memories you might.

Mom and Dad while in the fall before I was born in January.
Mom hiding her face of course with me! I am not sure how old I was here but I think Cooper kind of looks like me here.

This is a 1989 throw back Adam is about 1. Mt.Calvary church directory pic. Moms eyes are closed she haunt me for posting this I am sure.

Adam and Hillary on a visit to our Great Grandparents farm before they sold it. This is Adam's favorite pic of mom he keeps it in his car.

Me, Mom and Hillary at my baby shower for Jesse.

This is another one mom will for sure kill me for posting...This is Jesse and mom getting ready for bed in the pjs when we were staying with them after the car wreck.

Easter 2001 Some people in this pic aren't even looking at the camera but at least you can see mom smiling!

This is my wonderful mom 1 month before she died. She is watching the balloon release for Cameron at Jesse's 3rd birthday. Wow the things I would have said or done if I had of known I only had a few short weeks with her.

Thankful Thursday

2010-11-11T05:27:00.001-08:00

This is my brother-in-law Alan on his last deployment to Iraq. I am so grateful to call him both friend and family. We love Alan and no matter where he is serving or stationed we know he is doing it for us...for you! Much love Alan we miss you even if you are state side:)

On this Thankful Thursday which happens to be Veteran's Day....I am thankful for all of the men and women who fight for our country. Each one of these service men and women joined for different reasons but all do the most important job I can think of and that is of course protecting our freedom. That freedom makes this post full of lots of things to be thankful for.

Michael and I are so grateful to call ourselves family to wonderful service men both living and gone home. Thank you Alan, PawPaw, Pap, Cousin Jay, Uncle Cecil and Uncle Matt! And we are even more lucky to call some veterans friend. Thank you JT, Jeff, Ken, Riley, and Gabe. If I left someone out I am so sorry. We are forever indebted to you for protecting us and making this country a safe place to call home.

Veteran's please know that we pray for each of you as you might be in harms way and also please know that you are all loved and appreciated in our home. Thank you once more for you service.

While I don't have pictures to share I want to say a big thank you to JT and Riley for being Jesse and Duece's guest veterans at their school program and parade yesterday. Thank you for being will to endure a couple hours with 100's of kids so Jesse and Duece you show you how much that appreciate all you have done. We love you two very much.