My Husband Rocks~Friday

This picture totally makes sense to you, right? I mean, you have moved a staircase? Can you make it so it's not too steep? How about it? Oh, and while we are at it, how about a flagstone patio or maybe a rock, water feature? Oh, even better, maybe a pagoda?

This is one thing I have always admired about Josh, it doesn't matter if he has never tackled a particular project before, he is always willing to give it a try. AND seriously, it always turns out fabulous. I wish my efforts were so rewarding. He has such great confidence, and I admire that a lot.

A friend asked Josh if he would help MOVE a staircase, which from my "limited" knowledge of construction, doesn't sound like an easy job. MOVE A STAIRCASE?? Isn't that like ripping it out and building a new one? "Of course I will help!!" he says. Why did I imagine any different?

I am glad to have such a handy guy, and now I know if I ever need my staircase moved.......I have the MAN to do it!!

You rock, Josh, because you are willing to tackle any problem.

I love your confidence, and you always do things with perfection.

Levi's New Trick

Step 1: getting ready for cuteness!

Step 2: just making sure you know I am cute!

Step 3: leaning against short suitcase

Step 4: letting go!

Step 5: standing all by myself and trying not to laugh.

Our First Snowman

I cannot remember every building a snowman, so it was a lot of fun to enjoy it with my children. Abishai, especially, has been waiting for almost a year to make a snowman. He had a carrot that he brought from California, JUST for this occasion. I had to freeze it last year, knowing that we would not be able to use it.

We have had a few inches of snow, but we happen to live in a house that gets direct sunlight most of the day. Most of the time our snow melts pretty quickly. I almost thought that we would get to build a snowman last weekend, but I was told that -15 degrees was not good "snowman-making" temperatures. I was told from the "snowman experts" that 25 degrees was the best temperature.

We waited, hoping that the snow wouldn't melt too much. Josh came running in the house to say it looked like it was a PERFECT time, so even though I was in the middle of cooking......we went outside. I think we did a pretty good job, for first-timers.

My Husband Rocks~Friday

Another day to brag about how my husband Rocks!!!!

If you have never participated, and you want to.........click the picture!

I have to admit this is getting more difficult to think of good things to write about, but I don't want it to seem like that is because he is not "rockin!" In the last few months, Josh has never been more amazing. Sometimes I have to STOP him from helping me out, because he is making me feel badly. I am three months pregnant, and I have been having a harder time keeping up with my housework. BUT I have already mentioned how helpful he has been, so I have to think of something different.

This time of year always makes me think of "how it all began!"

Josh lived in California while I lived in Arizona. We wrote many letters, emails, supported the phone company, and visited as often as possible. My mom would do her best to drive me up there on long weekends, but it never seemed long enough. One Christmas, I planned a surprise. I would come for a visit for three weeks so we could spend the holiday season together. I didn't tell him I was coming. AND I was even more shocked that my mom said, "Yes!"

I arranged everything with his family. They arranged for his best friend to pick me up at the airport on Christmas morning. Christmas morning, his parents faked a disagreement, then Josh and his Dad went to town on a last minute errand. As the story goes, apparently, they "forgot" to deliver a present. Honestly, Josh was a bit frustrated, as all of this "fuss" did not seem necessary. He was feeling that Christmas was not turning out as he had hoped. While they were doing a series of pointless things in town, including a stop at the post office. By this time, Josh was frustrated because we ALL know the post office is CLOSED ON CHRISTMAS MORNING!!

I arrived at his house, his sister helped wrap me up and I was placed under the tree. Josh's mother paged (yes, I said PAGED) his dad to let them know we were ready. Josh came home a little exasperated that the traditional Christmas morning had been a little ruined. Here it was nearing ten o'clock and they hadn't eaten breakfast or opened presents.

"Let's have devotions!" his mother said. All the family rushed into the living room to read the Bible and pray, something usually saved for later. Josh decided to throw a minor fit; I cannot imagine him doing it now. But he was SO hungry, and things were NOT going "as planned!"

And everyone was acting so strangely! After many minutes, Dad finally convinced Josh that he would be brief in his devotions, so that we could get on with the day. Please keep in mind, I have been in a PLASTIC BIKE BAG for what seemed like a long time. I was in high heels, and a skirt. Josh finally glanced over to the tree, only to see a BIG present. "What's that?" he asked curiously, then poked me in the head. All the time I am getting hot and tired of being wrapped up. Finally he read the tag, "To Josh, From Serena." He tore the package open. I popped out, giving him a hug! The look on his face was priceless! I think we ate breakfast right after, so Josh was no longer minding that things did not go as planned.

Happy 10th Christmas, Josh!

You Rock, more every day!!!

Christmas Basket

Our church blessed us with an abundance of things for Christmas. Josh says we probably got the most submissions, some know things are tight, other just feel like a family of six can ALWAYS use more help. I will take any blessing God wants to throw our way. His blessings are always ABUNDANT! It was a tiny bit harder for Josh, but he decided not to listen to Satan's lies. He is a great provider, and I am thankful for that. But who doesn't want a blessing once in a while?

I wrote a list of ALL the things we got, just so you could see HOW MUCH!!!!!

The church was organized; they bless 800 families during this project. They were streamlined, and it was a great thing to see. I should have taken pictures of how amazing the church looked.

On to the list:

1 Turkey

3 Dozen Eggs

2 Stalks of Celery

2 Bags of Carrots

15 lbs. of Potatoes

2 Pkgs. of Hot Dogs

2 Pkgs. of Hot Dog Buns

2 Gallons of Milk

3 Loaves of Bread

2 Gallons of Juice

2 Boxes of Margarine

1 Bag of Mixed Fruit

Sliced Cheese

Whipped Cream

3 Family Size Cans of Chicken Noodle Soup
2 Boxes of Saltine Crackers

2 Pkgs. of Spaghetti

2 Jars of Pasta Sauce

1 Bag of Sugar

3 Bags of Cereal

2 Cake Mixes

2 Chocolate Frosting

2 Boxes of Buttered Popcorn

2 Cans of Cranberry Sauce

3 Bags of Seasoned Croutons

2 Boxes of Pancake Mix

2 Bottles of Syrup

1 Box of Raisens

2 Jars of Peanut Butter

1 Jar of Jelly

2 Bags of Onions

3 Boxes of Macaroni and Cheese

1 Box of Jello No Bake Cheesecake

2 Bags of Peanuts

4 Cans of Sweet Peas

2 Boxes of Flavored Oatmeal

7 Cans of Corn

6 Cans of Green Beans

1 Bottle of Shampoo

2 Deoderants

2 Bottles of Dish Soap

1 Bottle of Laundry Detergent

2 Toothbrushes

2 Tubes of Toothpaste

2 Bags of Toilet Paper

4 Presents (one for each of the children)

And LAST BUT NOT LEAST: 2 Bags of Peanut M&Ms, which is fun..........

I explained to the kids about our blessing, and they were very excited to go and pick our things up. Abishai said they would be only thankful for the things that God gave us, no complaining. BUT he added that it sure would be nice to have some candy!!!!

Awanas Grand Prix

I asked Jael if she thought she would win! "Of course, Mom!" Now, who's daughter is she? How am I supposed to teach her how to be a good sport when she never loses? I guess a lesson for another day!! AND maybe a lesson she will learn by having a heart after God.

Josh and Jael both did a great job on making a great car, a fast one. There were 100 clubbers in the race, but Jael only had to race against 40 of them.

We expected to be there for about 3o minutes, just enough to participate! We were there for 2 1/2 hours!!!! Jael raced over 10 times; her car had no malfunctions. The design was her idea, and the wood work was done by Josh.

It was, of course, a family affair. Everyone wanted a piece of the action. The car had to weigh no more than 5 oz. I got my kitchen scale out, so that we could get as much weight as possible. Maybe I get points for my contribution.

We were very proud of her accomplishment. Jael also managed to win a raffle prize: a huge bar of Hershey's chocolate and a special-edition Coca-Cola. (which Daddy drank)

And when I say that our church makes a fun time of their events, I mean it. They had a concession stand and everything. Brownies were only 25 cents! The boys got some little yogurt bites. Jael was way too excited; she had a small taste of her chocolate, that was it for her.

As time went on things got a little anxious for all of us. Josh and I were very excited at how well she was doing. As she progressed to the semi-finals and then to the finals, we text messaged all of the family. Jael's police car ranked in 2nd and 3rd place for every race. The last and final race was the most exciting, because she came in 6th place!!! Her car crashed, but they had a "do-over!!!!!" The digital finish line did not get the readings. We knew on the next race, that she had to get in second place or she may not win. The didn't give the results, but we could see it was close!!! The intensity!!

THE FINAL RACE!!

LOOK HOW CLOSE!!!

If only you could have seen the joy and excitement on her face, when they gave her a ribbon for participation. She got her ribbon and proceeded to retrieve her car. She knew, as we all did, that if she couldn't find her car on the table............THEN SHE WAS A WINNER!!! She was extremely excited at not finding her car. You would have laughed if you could have seen those long legs jump up, and almost trip her!!! She WON!!!!! Jael was the 2nd place winner!! She got her first trophy, and she has been waiting anxiously for me to write and tell you ALL about it.

Definitely a fun day!!

My Husband Rocks~Friday (Monday)

Sorry, Babe, for not acknowledging how much you ROCK. You never voice how much you like something until you miss it. I am glad to see that you read my blog. I was pleasently surprised to know that you check it all on your own, once in a while.

Wow, the weekend was SO busy, and you made it more enjoyable. We had lots to do, but you were by my side the whole time.

Jael made us proud by winning 2nd place in the Awanas' Grand Prix, and you were the main reason she won. You worked on building her the fastest car. Thank you for taking the time, even though you don't have much extra.

You chose to stand by your convictions all weekend, even though I know a few times it was hard. I am so proud of you, my friend!

AND even thought the weekend has been busy you never sit to take a break, if there is money to be made. You are already out making some cash, since your regular job isn't giving you the hours. You have so many things that make me proud.

You Rock, every day of the week!

I'm a Grace

You Are a Grace!




You are a Grace -- "I need to understand the world."

Graces have a need for knowledge and are introverted, curious, analytical, and insightful.

How to Get Along with Me
* Be independent, not clingy
* Speak in a straightforward and brief manner
* I need time alone to process my feelings and thoughts
* Remember that If I seem aloof, distant, or arrogant, it may be that I am feeling uncomfortable
* Make me feel welcome, but not too intensely, or I might doubt your sincerity
* If I become irritated when I have to repeat things, it may be because it was such an effort to get my thoughts out in the first place
* don't come on like a bulldozer
* Help me to avoid my pet peeves: big parties, other people's loud music, overdone emotions, and intrusions on my privacy


What I Like About Being a Grace
* standing back and viewing life objectively
* coming to a thorough understanding; perceiving causes and effects
* my sense of integrity: doing what I think is right and not being influenced by social pressure
* not being caught up in material possessions and status
* being calm in a crisis


What's Hard About Being a Grace
* being slow to put my knowledge and insights out in the world
* feeling bad when I act defensive or like a know-it-all
* being pressured to be with people when I don't want to be
* watching others with better social skills, but less intelligence or technical skill, do better professionally


Graces as Children Often
* spend a lot of time alone reading, making collections, and so on
* have a few special friends rather than many
* are very bright and curious and do well in school
* have independent minds and often question their parents and teachers
* watch events from a detached point of view, gathering information
* assume a poker face in order not to look afraid
* are sensitive; avoid interpersonal conflict
* feel intruded upon and controlled and/or ignored and neglected

Graces as Parents
* are often kind, perceptive, and devoted
* are sometimes authoritarian and demanding
* may expect more intellectual achievement than is developmentally appropriate
* may be intolerant of their children expressing strong emotions

USA Received a Celestial Frown

December 1st, 2008, was one of the last times for many years that Venus, Jupiter, and the moon will be this bright in the sky--seen all together. The next time will be in the year 2052. My children will show their grandchildren. In America, we saw a frown but in Australia they got to see a smile. I enjoyed spending the evening watching the sky; the kids had fun, too! We called relatives just to enjoy the sky together, for a moment.

My Husband Rocks~Friday

I am out of town for the holidays, but I didn't want to forget about thanking my husband for making our marriage a priority.

I really admire all that he has been doing the last few months. One of the things he did for me recently was prepare dinner. He made a special dinner for just the two of us. We ate AFTER the kids went to bed.

The Menu:

Grilled Filet Mignon (bacon-wrapped)

Double Stuffed Baked Potatoes with Cilantro, Green Onions, & Bacon

Rice Pilaf

Caesar Salad

Steamed Broccoli

Sparkling Apple Cider

Vanilla ice cream blended with Heath Bar and Magic Shell

It was delicious~~and so special.

Thank you, Josh, for a wonderful, memorable evening.

Thanksgiving Week

Can you believe I have no pictures of my wonderful Thanksgiving DAY? I don't know what happened. My sister-in-law did a great job preparing Thanksgiving for the entire town of Buckeye, AZ. Only 18 attended, but we had plenty for more. We all enjoyed the yummy food. Even Levi is really enjoying food, including the pumpkin cheescake and chocolate cake that Aunt Cara kept feeding him. His hands were hitting the table for more.

The few days before Thanksgiving we spent at my mom's house. Merick was there, too, and Yuma was priveleged to receive it's annual rainfall while we were there. Josh was supposed to work the whole time we were there, but plans didn't go "as planned!"

We also fed the ducks while we were there. I remember, as a child, enjoying this so much. I was glad to share the memory with my children. I took the pictures on my mom's camera, so hopefully I can add those later.

I hope your Thanksgiving was as enjoyable as ours.........

Levi's Box

I forgot to bring Levi's Pack N' Play with me to my mom's house. We improvised, and he had no problem. It really was too cute, and I will probably always chuckle when I think about it. Josh always said I would put everything in a box, if I could. He said I would do it to my kids, too! I guess he was right.

My Husband Rocks~Friday

He is spending his "day-off" taking our car in to the dealership. When we bought the car, they agreed to look at the brakes. I am so grateful that he knows what to listen for, and I am blessed that he wrote it in the contract. I appreciate him taking the time to drive an hour away from home and SIT for hours to get things looked over, to make sure the car's safe. I am glad he cares about the cars more than I do.

You Rock, Josh!

Be Still and Know That I am God

“Be still, and know that I am God...” Psalm 46:10

Being commanded to “be still” in this verse is such an odd concept? Are we not supposed to FIGHT? What does it mean when we are commanded to “be still”?

Is God restricting our mobility, as fighters? I believe it is a spiritual disposition. It should be a character trait of God’s unfailing promises to a person.

The word translated “be still” comes from the Hebrew term raphah. A primitive root; to slacken (in many applications, literal or figurative) -- abate, cease, consume, draw (toward evening), fail, (be) faint, be (wax) feeble, forsake, idle, leave, let alone (go, down), (be) slack, stay, be still, be slothful, (be) weak(-en). See rapha'. This word is found in various forms in the Old Testament, with different shades of meaning. When used of a person (as opposed to some inanimate object) it often has a negative connotation.

Interestingly, being WEAK is COMMANDED? In other contexts, those that don't work are condemned. We are often commanded to take courage and not be weak. However, in those instances, certain obligations were being neglected, and God’s people were admonished to take initiative to fulfill their duties.

The reason for this contrast is that there is a BALANCE in serving God. Balance is a good thing; it really does work for the best. There are those who are far from “still.” Doing all the work and giving God none of the credit. It's a hard balance to find sometimes, because it's a matter of not wanting to be found "weak!" But isn't that what He commanded us to do? Believing that by “taking courage” I can survive is actually disobedient. I cannot do it all on my own.

Here is the irony in this term “be still.” While we must take the initiative to fulfill our responsibilities and live our lives, the uncertainties of living in a world of sin and woe will continually challenge us. I am still trying to figure this out! Where is the line?

This command—“be still”—forces me to think on two things: that we are finite, and that God is infinite. That being the case, we need to drop our hands, go limp, relax, and “chill out.” Christian people ought to enjoy a calm confidence in Him who gave us His Son. So, if I am not chill......am I disobeying His command? OUCH!!!

"Since He did not spare even His own Son but gave Him up for us all, won’t He also give us everything else?" Romans 8:32. Psalm 46:10 encourages me to reflect on what God can do in the face of what we are unable to do.

This spiritual calm, that God commands, does not come from a lack of troubles; it comes from a steady, deep reflection on the ways God has intervened in the past on behalf of his people

So as your world crumbles around you, the call from Scripture is: don’t flinch in faith in God.

Stand still:

—not because of a self-made confidence

—not because you are the most composed person in the face of disaster

—not because “you’ve seen it all.”

Be still because of what you know about God.

HE IS FAITHFUL!

It is God’s past that provides calm for our future. Know that He is God!

If you are the last man or woman standing, be still.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth do change” Psalm 46:1-2

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Three Clowns

Today has been a BIG day for "dress-up!" I am not sure what inspired the creativity, but it has been fun to watch. I was sitting in the living room, and the doctor walked in to get his "patients!" He had a BIG pile of stuffed animals to carry downstairs. He never said a word, just very focused. They all came to show me their clown costumes, so I had to take pictures.

He had to make his own costume, since we only have two clown suits:

a ladybug body, and duck pants. I think he wins for creativity......

She just looks like she is getting too old to be a clown! :-(

To be honest, he just makes me laugh!

ZQ really was having fun......he wasn't forced!

New Blog Header

Thanks to April Durham at April Showers for my cute new look. I follow her blog, and look at the perks of being her friend. THANKS, April. I love it!!

What Right Do I Have?

A friend wrote this, and I think it speaks to this stage in my life..........THANK YOU for writing what words God gave you.


What right do I have to be afraid? What right have I to fear anything? I know the truth, I know who created and who cares for this universe of ours, what right have I to be afraid?

If our Creator where less understanding the fear of those who believe in Him might very well offend Him.

“I made you,” He would say, “I crafted you from mere dust. Look at that very dust, I crafted it with but a word, spoke it into existence where there was nothing. From that inanimate dust I crafted you, a being so complex not even thousands of years has allowed you to understand your own selves. I crafted the universe with but words, I crafted you, a being full of life, from that which had no life, what right have you to be afraid when I have said I will always care for those who believe in me?”

Yet He is an understanding God and knows we will have fear. Yet I find myself wondering, do I even have the right to feel fear? I have no more right to be afraid of what happens in this world then I do a right to go to heaven, yet I am going because God is loving and understanding.

Therefore, though I have no right to be afraid, I am given the freedom to be afraid. God knows we humans will fear, even though we Believers know we have no reason to be afraid. We have the very Creator of the universe on our side, what reason do we have to fear other men?

Terrorists, sickness, economic crisis, all must bow knee to the Creator. None has dominion save as He allows them. So what, I ask, gives me the right to fear any of them?

I know I possess not the power to face any of these alone. I am no fool, I know I am powerless, in and of myself. However I am more then just myself, I have on my side the one who created the universe, the very stars, He breathed it all into existence with but a word. I myself am powerless, but through Him I am powerful.

I am not second to another, for He loves all His children equally. He is God therefore I will not have to “wait my turn” for His undivided attention. He is there when I need to speak to Him, no matter how many of His children are speaking to Him. Through the millions my voice still rings true to His ears, even as all others do as well. The millions speaking to Him do not drown out my own voice, rather my voice adds weight to the the other voices, just as those other voices add weight to mine.

God does not play favorites, I am no more loved then any other of His children, but that is because He loves all His children so much it is not possible for Him to love us more. If He loves us that much, if He cares for us so deeply, will He not then, watch over for us, protect us, and provide for us?

Of course He will, so then what right have I to fear?

I am human so what happens around me does frighten me sometimes. It is not a sin to be afraid.

What is a sin, is for me to fail to realize that I have nothing to fear. What is a sin is for me to let that fear grab my attention and keep it.

I, am a child of God. I, have nothing to fear. I, will not fear that which happens around me. I, will remember that God has given me a spirit of love, power, and a sound mind.

I, am a child of God, the apple of His eye, his beloved.

I dare Satan and His ilk to challenge God, I don’t have to fear the devil, I don’t have to fear his weapons, I do not have to fear anything for:

I, am God’s beloved child.

Bring it on devil, I have the Creator of the Universe, the God of Creation on my side, and I have nothing, in heaven or earth, to fear.

i am more exciting than i thought~ok, maybe, not!

150 things to see if I am exciting.................


01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink (NEVER BEEN TO A REAL BAR.....I don't think!)
02. Swam with dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said "I love you" and meant it
09. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby's diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and didn't care who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Had amazing friends (still have them)
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44 . Watched whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Taken a midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger's table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your CDS
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Played touch football
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theatre
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on a television news program as an "expert"
83. Gotten flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Kissed on the first date
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one/both of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in Rocky Horror
96. Raised children
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
98. Passed out cold
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn't stop when you knew someone was looking 103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an accident that you shouldn't have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Touched a stingray
110. Broken someone's heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a TV game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone to Africa.
115. Had a facial part pierced other than your ears
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet (well, my brother did.......and I had to deal with it so it COUNTS!!!!)
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for 30 hours in a 48 hour period
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. States
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132.Touched a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad and The Odyssey
135. Selected one "important" author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146. Dyed your hair
147. Been a DJ
148. Shaved your head
149. Caused a car accident
150. Saved someone's life (I think prayer counts, right?)



If you're still reading......Happy Monday!.....and I'm sorry--I'm desperately trying to create some excitement in my life to blog about. But no more drama. Please...no more drama ...

Thanks for helping me come up with something to blog about.........

My Husband Rocks~Friday

I know this may not seem like a big deal to anyone else, but it is to me! Last Thursday we got a movie from Netflix; I don't even remember the name. BUT the point is, that about 10 minutes into the movie, my husband turned it off. Now, for me, this is no big deal; I can turn off a movie after it has started. Josh has a REALLY hard time with this; he will watch the most BORING of movies, JUST to see if it will get better. In other words, he watches EVERYTHING. This particular movie was not boring, but it had a LOT of cuss words in it. SO, he turned it off. For anyone who knows my husband personally, that is not something that he would make him turn off a movie. BUT I do believe the sensitivity in his Spirit is having a harder time handling the things of this world. My husband ROCKS, because he is making steps to CHANGE. I can see some follow-up to the things he has been talking about.

You ROCK, Josh~for putting some action to your words.

God is a God of Miracles

Many of you know that I was in a car/motorcycle accident in September, and I got a summons to appear in court on December 22nd. I was not exaclty thrilled about how close it was to Christmas. This was my first ticket, and I hated the idea of having to go to court, too! I also had no idea how I was going to be able to pay for my ticket, either. God is SO good. I got a notice yesterday from the Weld County Court System, that I am dismissed without prejudice from having to appear in court or anything else connected to the ticket. I guess the officer who issued the ticket did not file the papers correctly, and he was also supposed to put the fine on my ticket. Isn't it just like God to make it ALL disappear? I am so grateful for this, and I definitely count it as a miracle. How often are charges just dismissed?? Thank you ALL for those prayers, that I KNOW are the reason for my miracle.


Here are some pictures of our Yukon, which we no longer own. I almost cried when I had to get rid of it. I am glad we were all safe.






For those who don't know, the FRONT of the bike is what hit near my back tire. The back of the bike is what broke the passenger window. It is still hard to imagine that a motorcycle could total a YUKON?! The auto body shop said he had to have been going pretty fast, to GOD BE ALL THE GLORY, that everyone is alive.

My Husband Rocks~Friday

This week was amazing. I should have an individual post of all the wonderful things that happened this week. I will pick just one...........

We had friends over for dinner, and the house really needed to be cleaned up. I negotiated with Josh to help, but I never expected to get above and beyond what I asked. He cleaned and cleaned, and then he knew I was still working, so he asked if there was anything else he could do. He was beyond helpful; it was amazing. I kept thinking, "Wow!"

I appreciate you going the extra mile for me; it really helped me out. I love you, Josh!

YOU ROCKED, BIG TIME, THIS WEEK!!!

Quoting a Friend~Annie

I am so thankful that God moved my family here to Wyoming, which officially became the very reddest state last night, as Obama lost by the largest margin here. We are also in one of the reddest counties. We never lock our doors here, we never worry about crime, drugs, etc. Coincidence? I don't think so. Yet, there is no way I would ever leave my house unlocked in a blue county. That is getting off track with my point, however.

My point is that Michelle Obama has now become famous from the "For the first time in my life I am proud of my country" remark. Whereas, I am now going to give one of my own. For the first time in my life I am not proud of my country. This was a bad choice. You think I am wrong. Okay, lets see in a year or two under Obama when a six year old goes to school and tells his teacher that killing babies in the womb is murder what happens. If he is in CA or NY (or OR), will he have to go through sensitivity training? Is this possible in our America? Not likely today, but you never know what could happen when a liberal agenda goes forward full swing.

I pulled up a statistic today that Republicans have more than two times the amount of children as Democrats. Thats great news! Hopefully in a few years we will outnumber them. Maybe when Democrats start getting outnumbered they will outlaw abortion since they are aborting future voters. Does anybody realize that there would be 26 million more African-Americans in the country if it weren't for abortion? That, my friends, is a sickening number of murders.

Did anybody ever wonder why racists extremist groups have donated to Planned Parenthood before? Racism at its ugliest - kill them before they are born.

Does this blog sound extreme. Probably. Are you wondering why you have me on your friends list. Possibly. However, I figured I better make it as extreme as possible while freedom of speech is still legal.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

My Husband Rocks~Friday

Josh rocks because he wanted to fight a battle for me, and I appreciate how he wants to protect me. I have been having some "arguments" with friends lately, and he wanted to "tell them why they were wrong!" I love that he wants to protect me. He knows how much I hate confrontation. Thanks, Babe, for being my hero! I love the fact that you are turning into a great fighter.

RePost

Now that I don't have ads on my blog anymore, I can blog about what I want with no fear of what will be advertised...........I guess ONE plus to not having extra money?


So here it goes:

The fact that my family and I don't celebrate Halloween has set us a part from so many of our friends, that it almost surprises me!

Here is why WE don't celebrate Halloween:

Halloween has its origins in the ancient Celtic festival known as Samhain. The festival of Samhain is a celebration of the end of the harvest season in Gaelic culture, and is sometimes regarded as the “Celtic New Year”. Traditionally, the festival was a time used by the ancient pagans to take stock of supplies and slaughter livestock for winter stores.

The ancient Gaels believed that on October 31, now known as Halloween, the boundary between the alive and the deceased dissolved, and the dead become dangerous for the living by causing problems such as sickness or damaged crops. The festivals would frequently involve bonfires, into which bones of slaughtered livestock were thrown. Costumes and masks were also worn at the festivals in an attempt to mimic the evil spirits or placate them. Believe it or not, most of our Halloween practices can be traced back to these old pagan rites and superstitions.


As for the name “Halloween” it is shortened from All Hallows’ Even (both “even” and “eve” are abbreviations of “evening”, but “Halloween” gets its “n” from “even”) as it is the eve of “All Hallows’ Day”, which is now also known as All Saints’ Day.

Now one might argue that the Halloween we celebrate today, at least in the United States is nothing like the pagan rituals it was derived from but rather an innocent time of the year to dress up in costumes, trick-or-treat, host or attend Halloween parties, visit haunted houses and mazes, watch horror flicks and otherwise enjoy the dark side of humanity including ghosts, witches, gouls, monsters and demons. And while that may sound innocent enough and non-seroius to most, Halloween is a very sacred holiday to others.

For example, those who follow the Wicca religion consider Halloween to be one of eight holy days they observe throughout the year. “Halloween, plain and simple is our favorite time of year,” writes one follower of Wicca on witchway.net. In fact they feel it is a true time for witches, Witchcraft itself, and Wiccans alike who feel that on this night the separation between the physical and spiritual realities is it’s least guarded and it’s veil the thinnest.

That same person goes on to write, “It is a time for dimensional openings and workings, it is a somber holiday, one of dark clothes and thoughts for the dead, it is said to be the time when those of necromantic talents can speak with the dead and it is certainly a time to remember ones own dead. Witches believe it is a time of endings of relationships and bad situations and it is the time when one can see the glimmer of hope in the future. There are as many concepts attached to this holiday as any other, truly a time of remembrance of our ancestors and all those who have gone before.

”What about other organizations? Is Wicca the only group of people that view Halloween in this manner? Anton LaVey, author of The Satanic Bible and high priest of the Church of Satan states, “Satanists consider Halloween the most important day of the year. Satanic, occult and witchcraft powers are at their highest potency level…Satan and his powers are at their best that night.”

So if we know that Halloween is derived from anchient pagan rites and rituals and that at least two very non-Christian groups consider Halloween a sacred and holy day, should we as Christians celebrate it?

If we do celebrate it, does that not violate 1Thessalonians 5:22 where it says, “Abstain from all appearance of evil” or even the common knowledge that to follow Christ is to be like Him and not live our lives in a paganistic fashion?

One would argue, “What about Christmas?" - Christ was not born on December 25th or even in the winter and the commercialism of Christmas with its Santa Clauses, elves, snowmen, reindeer, gift-giving and the like have nothing to do with the birth of the Son of God. But that is an entirely other post.

So what should a Christian do? I leave you to your own convictions but I choose certainly not to celebrate it and not to participate in it. To celebrate the holiday to me is to contradict my faith and give praise to what is most definitely a darker side of humanity. I think we Christians today do enough of that already when we constantly fall prey to embracing the world around us as opposed to Christ.

For many people I believe it's a lack of knowledge, here are some of the traditions of Halloween and their history.

Trick or Treating:

During Samhain, the Druids believed that the dead would play tricks on mankind and cause panic and destruction. They had to be appeased, so country folk would give the Druids food as they visited their homes.Bobbing for Apples:Apples were the sacred fruit of the goddess, and many games of divination involving them entered the Samhain customs.

The Witch's Broomstick:

The witch is a central symbol of Halloween. The name comes from the Saxon wica, meaning wise one. When setting out for a Sabbath, witches rubbed a sacred ointment onto their skin. This gave them a feeling of flying, and if they had been fasting they felt even giddier. Some witches rode on horseback, but poor witches went on foot and carried a broom or a pole to aid in vaulting over streams. In England when new witches were initiated they were often blindfolded, smeared with flying ointment and placed on a broomstick. The ointment would confuse the mind, speed up the pulse and numb the feet. When they were told "You are flying over land and sea," the witch took their word for it.

Jack-O-Lanterns:

Irish children used to carve out potatoes or turnips and light them for their Halloween gatherings. They commemorated Jack, a shifty Irish villain so wicked that neither God nor the Devil wanted him. Rejected by both the sacred and profane, he wandered the world endlessly looking for a place to rest, his only warmth a glittering candle in a rotten turnip.

How about you? If you are a Christian, do you feel my convictions are just a bunch of nonsense, stooped in silly superstitions? Or do you agree and either resist celebrating the holiday? Do you find alternatives? If you are not a Christian, do you think Christians should celebrate this holiday? I’d love to hear some various opinions and may I remind you that what I have written here are my own convictions. I do not force them on anyone but only ask if you are a follower of Christ, to prayfully consider the facts that surround this holiday.

AN AWARD?!?!

Wow, I am on a roll this week. I was tagged for my first meme, and now I have my first award. Thanks again, Daja, for making my blogging week so interesting.

So, I have to answer the following question and then pass on the love to five other bloggy buddies. Here goes:


1. Do you have the same friends since childhood?

Hmm, does being 15 count? or older? LOL!!

No, really, I don't have any friends that I keep in daily contact with, but I have a few friends that I get updates on their lives. If it's through a blog or their Facebook/MySpace accounts, I do still know where they are.


2. What do you value most about your friends?

What was on the award? I definitely value honesty the most.


3. Are your friends your sounding boards?
Like Daja said: "Some are. You know different friends fill different needs. Some are coffee buddies, some are casual acquaintances, some share history, some are safe places to fall."
My sounding boards are usually my mothers, my sisters, or occasionally Josh.


4. What is your favorite activity to share with your friends?

Shopping~I miss you, Leona!!



Now, for the friends I want to pass the AWARD on to...... you already HAVE been given the friendship award, because you are SOOOO great! LOVE YOU!

BUT, I DO HAVE ONE PERSON, who should have gotten the award a long time ago......

Mom at Daffodil Dreams : she has been a true friend, even listening to me whine and cry about her own son!

More Politics

TO ALL MY FRIENDS....LIBERAL OR CONSERVATIVE........FYI


George Bush has been in office for 7 1/2 years.

The first six the economy was fine.

A little over one year ago:

1) Consumer confidence stood at a 2 1/2 year high;

2) Regular gasoline sold for $2.19 a gallon;

3) the unemployment rate was 4.5%.

4) the DOW JONES hit a record high--14,000 +

5) American's were buying new cars, taking cruises, vacations overseas, living large!...



But American's wanted 'CHANGE'! So, in 2006 they voted in a Democratic Congress and yes--we got 'CHANGE' all right.


In the PAST YEAR:

1) Consumer confidence has plummeted ;

2) Gasoline hit over $4 a gallon;

3) Unemployment is up to 5.5% (a 10% increase);

4) Americans have seen their home equity drop by $12 TRILLION DOLLARS and prices still dropping;

5) 1% of American homes are in foreclosure.

6) as I write, THE DOW is probing another low~~ $2.5 TRILLION DOLLARS HAS EVAPORATED FROM THEIR STOCKS, BONDS & MUTUAL FUNDS INVESTMENT PORTFOLIOS!


YES, IN 2006 AMERICA VOTED FOR CHANGE...AND WE SURE GOT IT! ....


REMEMBER THE PRESIDENT HAS NO CONTROL OVER ANY OF THESE ISSUES, ONLY CONGRESS.


AND WHAT HAS CONGRESS DONE IN THE LAST TWO YEARS, ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.


NOW THE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT CLAIMS HE IS GOING TO REALLY GIVE US CHANGE ALONG WITH A DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS!!!!


JUST HOW MUCH MORE 'CHANGE' DO YOU THINK YOU CAN STAND?

Tagged for a Meme~my first one

Should I be honored? Hmm.......thanks Daja! I guess you just wanted to know some more random things about me?

1. I don't care for writing. I know, can you believe I have a blog? Insane? But it's one of the ways I believe God is stretching me.

2. I don't really like intercessory prayer. I know, AGAIN??? Can you believe it? It seems that as I go through life God seems to be having me do the things I don't care to do!

3. I have a backwards tooth. The orthodontist said it would be easier to turn it the wrong way then to make it right. Every dentist I go to HAS to comment.

4. I have about 80 pairs of shoes. Please.....make me feel better and SAY you have more!!

5. I like to do laundry. I only have issues with letting it pile up when it is CLEAN. I always have a child napping SOME WHERE in a room, and I don't get to it quick enough. One day around here, can make me VERY FAR behind.

6. I don't like heights. I choose to do things that make me afraid, just to not let FEAR have control over me. I am not ready to jump out of a plane, YET!

7. I am a ChaCha Guide. I get paid 10/20 cents a question....to research FOR people.

I tag:

Amy at Ke Aloha : a friend who rarely blogs! :-)

Nessie over at Metamorphosis : a friend from Yuma, AZ, who moved to Colorado, and NOW lives in Yuma, AZ, AGAIN. (Still trying to forgive her, J/K)

Angela, my cousin, over at Robo Family : Miss you!

My Husband Rocks~Friday

He's going deeper with God, that's the reason my huband rocks! I am excited to see him getting a renewed passion for Christ. I know he is a bit scared, but who isn't? I mean really.....you jump out of a plane and it can scare you half to death!!! BUT, the thrill of the ride, that's what keeps you going back for more.

Josh, I am so happy that you are seeking after God. I know that dying to your self is the only way that we can not repeat the past. We can end the cycle of defeat and draw a line in the sand. The old man will STAY dead. I am wondering if I will recognize you when God is done with you. How exciting is that?

With all my heart, I am proud of you. AND no matter where this takes you, that maybe I don't want to go.....I'll follow you, following Him.

"Almost dying changes nothing; dying changes everything." Dr. Gregory House.


You rock: For jumping into the deep end of God............

If you want to brag about your husband, too.......join other wives, here!

Above All

I really love this song, and I love hearing how a song "started!"

God is amazing in so many ways, and I love how he imparts His Words into the hearts of men, if only they are willing to listen and ask.

My Husband Rocks-Friday

Josh has been trying to lighten my load, and he has been busy himself! Isn't that sweet that he even considers it something he can do for me?

I appreciate the effort that he has put forth this week in trying to make my week easier, even though his is busy.

Tuesdays are my busy day, and this Tuesday was especially busy with some extra obligations. Josh got home from work at around 8:30 PM, only an hour before I did. He took his shower, and he rushed to finish putting the dishes in the dishwasher. I got home from church at 9:30, to find my kitchen all clean. YEAH!

THANKS, BABE, for lightening my load.

Love you,
Serena



Can you believe I almost forgot the fact that you spent time making ME dinner?? How could I? He was even "frugal" about it, too! He used leftover pasta and a few pieces of Italian sausage that I had not used--made a yummy pasta, sausage, sweet pepper dish!! YUMMY!