life without a paddle

A Day of New Things.... Part 3

2011-07-30T09:18:00.001-04:00

The last stop on our Day of new things was beautiful Toguchi Beach. Toguchi Beach is a small seaside park in the southwest corner of Yomitan Township on the island of Okinawa, Japan. The park area is bordered on the North side by Torii Station (a US Army Military Base). The ocean is the East China Sea.

The kids wanted to play at the park before we headed down to the beach. It was a nice park with beautiful views. The park had a natural rock climbing wall and cement slides. To get to the top of one of the slides you had to walk up a stone staircase (I thought I took more pictures). This is the sign posted up near the top of the slide. It's warning you of the Habu snake:

A habu (pronounced "hah-BOO") is a venomous snake found in southeast Asia (Japan, Phillipines, Taiwan, southeast China).

Habus are pit vipers, more closely related to the adder than to any species of North American snake. The actual "habu" (Trimeresurus flavoviridis) is relatively small, not usually getting longer than 5 feet. They are not typically aggressive but will bite if provoked. They are not as deadly as cobras or mambas, but are more much more dangerous than most North American venomous snakes. There are almost a dozen species of habu; the variety native to Okinawa (Trimeresurus okinavensis) is supposedly greenish or greenish-yellow

After the kids were done playing at the park we walked down to the beach. On the walk we kept hearing Lily say, "Stay on the path... Stay on the Path" Does that have anything to do with the signs?

This was one of the views on the way to the beach. We didn't get down there but we'll certainly go back.

Here we are at the beach. The tide was low so we were able to walk out to the cave. Walking out there was like a 6th grade field trip to Marineland in St Augustine. That wasn't sand we were walking on, it was all coral. We saw a ton of sea cucumbers, some black fuzzy star fish, sea urchins, crabs and some really pretty blue fish.

View through the cave

The kids searching for shells and looking at all the sea life

I think they are called Damselfish. It was a great day and we can't wait to go back. I wonder if they have a Karate Kid (the original) tour. I'd like to see some of those places:)

A Day of New Things.... Part 2

2011-07-29T22:44:00.009-04:00

After Jesco Lily took us to lunch at... well, I don't know the name but I do know they didn't have chicken fingers.

Even Japanese parking spaces are small

Step 1) Find what you would like to eat on this menu

Step 2) Put in your Yen

Step 3) Push the button for your order (kind-of like a coke machine)

make sure you don't mess up and hit the wrong button

Step 4) Get your little tickets from the bottom slot (they look like movie ticket stubs w/ Japanese writing all over them)

Step 5) Proceed to find a table

They did have booths but if I was eating there I was going to sit like I lived there.

One table floor table had a hole under the table for your feet but it was already taken.

This was the kids meal. Have you ever seen the movie Ponyo? This is what they ate so we are going to call it Ponyo food. Ramen Noodles in the bowl with seaweed, ham and egg. The kids all ate their noodles and Cohen ate his egg.

I had garlic rice mixed with fried egg and onion, which taste like fried rice just more buttery..btw, I didn't know what I wanted but Lily helped me out with that. You didn't think I was going to be that brave did ya?

Oh, Sorry AJ.... Guess who pushed the buttons on the order machine and guess who hit the wrong button. Good thing he's very food adventurous. He said it was cold and wasn't that good. Over all it was a good experience but like all good things it had to come to an end... and well, it ended when the kids decided to cross over their grass mat curtain and started using the table with the floor cut out and it's seat cushions as a fort. What's an American to do?

A Day of New Things.... Part 1

2011-07-29T22:02:00.009-04:00

While AJ was in Afghanistan he met a guy he worked with who lived in Okinawa. When Ron heard we were heading over he signed up to be our sponsor to help make our transition easier. His family has been incredibly helpful with everything from driving us to classes, taking AJ to work, helping us understand their cell phones and even trying to help us get in our house. His wife, Lily, and their kids took us around town yesterday and it was a great day filled with a ton of new and interesting things. Our first stop was Jesco, a Walmart type store.

Lily is part of a cultural exchange group where Americans and Japanese women go to each others homes and teach each other about their cultures. She says all Japanese homes have small furniture and appliances. She also told me not to plan on buying any shoes or clothes out in town. Well, at least that will save me some money.

This was outside the store and we just couldn't pass up a picture

A baby crib and twin size bed. They are the size of our pack-n-plays and toddler beds in the US

A living room couch 15,800 Yen (a little over $200) A washer & dryer combo. Jack would definitely want to do laundry

Typical stove and oven in a Japanese home (I think our toaster ovens are bigger than these and to the right....are you ready??? A dishwasher! For real!!

No Japanese dept store would be complete without a Hello Kitty section

Hand washing sink in the bathroom & baby diaper changing table

Since Mom's often take lil boys to the bathroom with them they have their own sinks and urinals. Perfectly sized for 2 and up. On the right is a woman's toilet (in a stall of course) They did have normal toilets but how could I pass up the chance to try this? It wasn't easy.

Whew.... I Passed

2011-07-28T10:06:00.000-04:00

I'm officially a licensed Japanese driver:) I was so worried about the test but it wasn't too hard and I only missed 1.

We had a newcomers meeting on Wednesday which took all day 7:30 - 3:00. We did get some useful information and later in the day we got to take a written DL test, if you passed you walked away with a DL. Jack was such a good sport. He sat right along with us while the other two kids were in child care. When we took a lunch break we walked down to a place called the spot on base where there was a playground and he was glad to stretch his legs.

Just some street signs. The one on the left is self explanatory. On the right is a No Parking

Max Speed limit (it's in Kilometers) If it were a min speed limit sign the numbers would be underlined

A Taxi. The green stripe reads Authorized on/off base. Not all taxi's are.

Just some FYI.... The Japanese highly believe driving is a privilege and not a right. Because of that belief it cost $3000.00 to take the test. If they fail they have to hire an instructor that cost about $30 an hour to retake the exam.

The Big Day

2011-07-25T23:00:00.001-04:00

Another long day.... It was a 18 hour plane ride with very little sleep. Other than it being long it wasn't bad. The kids did very well and the scenery was beautiful.

The Rocky Mountains

Just some islands we flew over

I was really amazed when we saw Mt Fuji from the plane.

AJ wants to climb up it before we leave but I had no idea how

big it was until I saw it from the plane...

We were very glad to have finally landed. We arrived Friday night about 8:30pm (7:30am eastern time) As soon as we stepped out of the airport you could tell we weren't in Kansas anymore (not that I'm from Kansas) It was very humid with a slight dry breeze.

Leaving on a Jet Plane...Travel, Wed July 20th

2011-07-24T07:26:00.002-04:00

Wed afternoon we stopped to get a bite before we headed to the airport. I Love Longhorn!! I had my usual, of course, chicken fingers and wild west shrimp.

The kids were very excited when the waitress brought out a good-bye dessert.

When we got to BWI we had to haul everything in. I think I may have over packed a bit:) I wasn't sure how long it would take to get all of our stuff in Japan and so I wanted to make sure we had plenty just in case. The only problem was carting it everywhere. The kids were great, they helped so much and never complained about it.

Our flight was suppose to leave BWI at 3pm arrive in Atlanta at 4:30, have a layover then leave for Seattle at 7pm. Well, that didn't happen. Our flight leaving BWI didn't leave until 6:30 but for 2 hours of that wait we were sitting on the plane. Then once we arrived in Atlanta we had 15 min to make it to our next flight and ATL is a huge airport. It was a very long day. We got up at 5:30am drove 2 hours back to Ft Meade got on our flights and finally arrived in Seattle about 11pm

Since our flights were late we didn't have time for dinner so once we finally got to the hotel Madison and I went across the street for a little jack in the Box (which isn't very good).... eating at 12:30 (eastern time) in the morning... Happy Birthday, Cohen!

2011-07-19T23:50:00.000-04:00

We have already done so much since summer has started and I don't think we'll be slowing down anytime soon. Leaving NH we decided to stop by PA. to see my Dad. This is my Dad on the Left and Uncle Willie on the right. I asked Jack if they looked alike he said yes. I said "A lot alike or a little alike?" His response..."A lot alike" They are twins but neither of them of them had any twins so I'm guessing my brother Jeffrey will be the lucky one.

Summer Vacation Part 2

2011-07-19T23:45:00.017-04:00

I have been really blessed to have such wonderful in-laws. My sister and I often have "discussions" about whose in-laws are better. We just love going to see them and going to NH for vacations. It's so beautiful, green & small. Only about 2,000 people in town.

July 4th started with a kids fishing derby. Grammy & Aunt Sonya took all the kids but Cohen & Izabel were the only ones who caught a fish. They were so proud. Madison and Lily were very proud of them as well. Later that morning we went to Main St for the town parade then back that night for fireworks

Happy Birthday Grammy!!!!

Hiking up Beaver Brook Falls

A fun in the sun day........We were getting ready for a bonfire and it was cold outside

I love looking at pictures and they have plenty... The kids were very entertained while we looked at 7 boxes of slide shows

2009

2011

These dresses were Grammy's when she was younger and the girls just love getting dressed up in them and I love seeing how much they grow every year

Some more highlights from Jax

2011-07-19T21:03:00.015-04:00

More beach time........Jack swimming & he's 3.. Uncle Jeffrey making Jack's b-day cake

Madison working on her make-up skills................................................

Doing a little school shopping... Celebrating our 12th Anniversary...St Mary's Aquatic center

A cousin cookout.... Dinner out with the girls...The guys have caught onto our childless outings and now they insist on coming with us

Saying Good-Bye.. Granny....Mom & Dad......Sister

2011-07-19T18:01:00.009-04:00

My friends know I’m a little crazy a lot of the time, whether it’s doing back ground checks on new beau’s or crying through an entire movie (comedy) because I felt like no one cared I was even there (that was at the beginning of the summer and very move related)… I’m sure the list could go on and on, but, they are my Best Friends and I know they would not expect any less.

Even with all my craziness I have the privilege of knowing some of the best women around. Our little circle has seen a lot of babies being born, we have cooked a lot of meals, had a lot of birthday parties and have seen more than our share of sorrow, but together we have laughed, cried and prayed our way through it all.

We were looking for a way to spend some time together before our move to Japan and decided to go on a cruise. Not everyone was able to go but for those of us who did we had a great time.

This was our first excursion. Taxi/beach & shopping. We were like sardines in a can.

A show and our last dinner (above) and a pic with "Joseph our Super Charged Maitre' D" (below)

Summer Vacation Part 1

2011-07-19T01:13:00.007-04:00

Bon Jovi says it right when he sings, “Who says you can’t go home?”

It has been a long 42 days… Homeless, Bed less, Car less and living out of suitcases with 3 kids can definitely take a toll on someone who’s home is very structured (most of the time) Not to mention this is a BIG move. Thank God we have a wonderful support system. Great friends in Ft Meade, Best Friends in Jax and a wonderful family.

First we headed to Florida…..Celebrating my niece’s 2 birthday. The kids had a blast playing on the home made slip-n-slide, swimming and picking berries. Madison & Cohen even got to drive the golf cart. Thanks Melanie & Curtis

You can’t think about Florida without thinking about the Florida beaches. I’m so happy I was born a beach baby. If I wasn’t there with my mom, I was there with my Aunt Connie & my cousin Melissa. I love taking my kids. Beach + kids + Publix chx wings & sweet Tea = a very happy mama

2011-07-13T10:26:00.002-04:00

I've heard it said, A picture is worth 1,000 words, however, just one word from God is worth more than any man could ever dream.

Today I got a good report from my home church about a Women’s Conference they just held with Marsha Wooley as their guest speaker. I have heard on more than 1 occasion that she is an awesome anointed women of God. Unfortunately with us being gone for the past couple of years I haven’t had the privilege of hearing her speak but I sure would love to.

When God is in the midst…. That’s where I want to be. Like the woman with the issue of blood, I want to press through just to get a fresh breath of whatever "He" has for me. I pray nightly over my kids and one of the things they hear me pray is “God open their ears to hear your still small voice and soften their hearts to obey you” It could be as soft as a breeze blowing through the trees…But, whether it’s in a dream, through his word or from someone speaking confirmation to or over me, I want to know all God has for me…..

Boxes, Boxes Everywhere!!!!

2011-07-08T16:49:00.007-04:00

May was a very busy month to say the least. Not only did we have to make sure all of us had everything done for our over seas screenings but we also had to organize 3 pack outs, which proved to be very tedious..Just a little FYI... They come and pack everything 1 day, then load the stuff they packed on a truck the next day and when they came it was only 1 or 2 packers and/or movers so it made for a very long day. Yes, I said movers. Thank God AJ was home or some of our furniture would not have made it on the trucks.

This was the the 1st pack out, May 16th, 2011. Called a "UB pack-out" or "Unaccompanied Baggage pack-out" Everything we need right off. Dishes, towels, linens... etc... We stacked everything we decided we needed in the dining room to make it easier for the movers.

This was our 2nd pack-out. Everything going into Non-Temp storage. It wasn't very difficult deciding what household items to send. The problem came when we got to the kids stuff. They will change so much in the next 3 years and we wanted to try and take as much as we could.

Stuff being loaded into the Non-Temp storage truck.

The 3rd and final pack-out. All things headed to Japan, May 31st. They said it will take 60 - 90 days to get there, so, hopefully we won't be without furniture for too long.

This is not a house, This is My home

2011-07-08T16:14:00.011-04:00

While growing up, I don’t think we ever lived in a house longer than a year until I was 13. Not because of military, we just moved… a lot. which is probably what makes it a little easier to be a Navy wife. When we moved from Florida to Maryland I was so excited. Excited to see the trees change during the different seasons. Excited to see snow and excited to be able to be on a new adventure with my wonderful husband and babies.

I remember the first day we drove up to our new house. We were in such awe at where the Lord had put us. I loved the street he put us on. The first time we drove up to the house there were some little girls coloring with sidewalk chalk in their driveway 2 houses down. I loved our perfect front porch. I absolutely loved the fenced back yard. And, looking out my back door there is a big wooded field (where I saw 3 deer grazing just a few days later). I could go on and on.

Even though I loved it so much it only felt like we were on vacation until one day last summer, 2010. While AJ was deployed I was bathing the boys upstairs in their bathroom and it hit me, out of no where, It was a peaceful….This is home. So, when the packers came it was hard. I felt like we just got here.... but where he leads we will follow and so, we are heading to Japan.

This was the front living room just before the packers came.

This was the front living room after the last pack out.

Just a little info about Okinawa

2011-05-26T21:26:00.009-04:00

Welcome to Okinawa, a small tropical (and humid) island paradise! Okinawa has beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and crystal blue, postcard-picture waters. (My hair will be one big frizz ball for the next 3 years)

How big is Okinawa? In short, it is 67 miles long and varies in width from 2-17 miles wide. Though the length sounds short, it will take you well over 3 hours to traverse the full length due to the roads, traffic, and speed limits.

Is Okinawa a city or an island? - and more! Okinawa is the name for a city, an island, and a group of islands. Okinawa island (where the US military bases are) is the main island of the Okinawa Prefecture (prefecture is a term used to describe a geographic/political section, much like we use the term "county" or, more accurately, "state). Okinawa Prefecture includes 159 more islands. Okinawa is often referred to as the "Keystone of the Pacific" because of its strategic location with respect to major Far East cities. Indeed, Okinawa is approximately as close to Seoul (Korea), Manila (Philippines), and Hong Kong (China) as it is to Tokyo (Japan). . .each are about 850-1,000 miles away.

Time to PCS

2011-05-09T18:14:00.004-04:00

Most families like to stay in the same house, in the same town, in the same city for their entire lives and then you have military families, who for the most part, have no choice but to pick up and move. Heading to new and unfamiliar places.

For us moving is totally bitter sweet. It's hard pulling our kids away from the things and people they have come to know and love. Even as adults it's scarey. Will we like our new house? Will it feel like a home? How long will it take to make new friends? But then there's "The Sweet" We're going to be able to do so many new things and go to so many places.

But the one thing that will remain the same is God! Our faith and trust in him has to be whole hearted, not that it won't be difficult, but I know he has it all under control. I've prayed all I can pray, said all I can say and I've left it to HIM, so we will go where he leads. It will be exciting to see his plan unfold. Please keep us in your prayers!!!

Are you ready for Christmas?

2010-11-22T21:12:00.004-05:00

With the Christmas Season fast approaching it's time to think about Yule Tide Greetings. I usually go to Sam's or Walmart for my Christmas cards but have always loved the cards I get from my friend Kelly. It's because of Kelly that I started using Snapfish. They are easy to upload, easy to use and I have always loved everything I have gotten from them; from the prints to the photo books and more. They also store your photos which is great for me since I have recently lost over 2000 pictures from my external hd. You can also share the photos you have stored. I'm so excited about this years Christmas cards and can't wait to get them in. Along with making cookies and watching Frosty the Snowman, Snapfish Holiday's Christmas Cards will be my new holiday tradition. Make sure you go here to check out their Christmas cards selection.

If you're a blogger make sure you take advantage of Shutterfly’s 50 free Holiday cards for blogger's.

New Band

2010-09-06T14:56:00.001-04:00

http://www.reverbnation.com/octoberglory

How Frugal is too Frugal?

2010-07-29T16:47:00.004-04:00

While down in Florida we went to the St Marys Aquatic Center in Ga. We love that place so much that when we lived there we had season passes. Well, if you know Fl well enough you know that afternoon thunderstorms always roll in and then roll back out but if you happen to be at the water park and it storms for an hour you can get rain checks to come back:) We had already been there since 11am but how happy were we (Donna, Kelly & I) when a storm rolled in about 4pm and we stuck it out with kids in tow.

Fun in the Florida Sun

2010-07-17T15:55:00.008-04:00

I am happy to say Hannah's first time at the beach was with Aunt Lena. Joni tried saying no but the I live out of state thing really comes in handy:) It took her a while to get use to the water but she had no problem crawling away to chase the birds.

Grandpa & Hannah. I think he's the reason she didn't like the water at first:)

The kids had a blast in the ocean with Me-Maw & Papa.

Oh, Silly Child

2010-07-17T14:25:00.010-04:00

I am finally back and with so much to share from our summer vacation. We have been gone for a month and a half and even though it has been bitter sweet (loving being with our families but after a while missing our own beds) it has helped knock out some of Daddy's deployment time.

The kids are really great travelers and they have learned we don't make a lot of stops, so, when we do.. You need to make the best out of them. Well, Madison made sure she did just that and went away with a lesson learned. We had stopped at Wendy's to grab some lunch and when we were leaving I heard her ask Cohen for her life vest. I quickly said, "No" it's time to get back on the road. I realize there was no real reason to say no but there wasn't any real reason for her to have it either. Well, about 10 miles down the road I heard, "Mama, I need help." As I looked back in the rear view mirror I noticed her trying to undo what I told her not to do in the first place. My instant reaction was Silly Child (I can only imagine God saying that about me when I do childish things) I told her I was driving and couldn't really help her so now she had to figure out how to get it off herself. I will admit after seeing her struggle for 30 min I did unbuckle the top latch but after that she was on her own. It didn't take too long:) it was only 170 miles (for real) when she finally got it off and she was thrilled to do so.

We left for vaction early to make it for my Niece's 1st Birthday. I can't believe how fast time has gone by. It seems like only a few months ago Joni called me while we were in the movie theater telling me she was going to start pushing and now here it is a year later and Hannah has turned 1

Happy Birthday Hannah

Freebies

2010-06-03T18:49:00.004-04:00

IHOP Pancake Revolution. By joining here, you will be the first to receive exclusive offers from your favorite IHOP including a FREE MEAL just for signing up, on your birthday, and on your 1-year anniversary of joining The Pancake Revolution.

Free Sample Dove Damage Therapy Daily Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner. Go here to to get your Free Sample You must have a Costco Member ID to receive your samples.

Are you a Swag Nut?

2010-06-02T22:43:00.010-04:00

Who doesn't like Free money? Especially for something you do every day... Surfing the Internet. SwagBucks is just like Google except they pay you with digital dollars to use their search engine. The digital dollars can then be redeemed for prizes in The Swag Store. They Store has everything from Books & Magazines, Video Games, Movies & Music to Sports & Collectibles... and a ton more but my favorite prizes to get are the Gift Cards. That's right! Gift Cards! Starbucks, PayPal, I-Tunes, Pro Bass Shop, Target, SouthWest Airlines, Amazon.com and once again; much more... Yes, there are so many more to choose from. Go here to to sign up. It's totally FREE. Below I will post some FYI's and if you have any questions just ask:)

How do I earn SwagBucks? Here are just a few.

1. Using the Search engine. Once you sign up go to the Toolbar Tab and download it to your computer. It will show up just below the hyperlink so you will always have the search engine on hand. Sometimes while I sit in front of the TV at night I will type all kinds of stupid stuff in the search engine just to earn bucks and it works.

2. You can earn Bucks form taking Daily Polls. Under the Ways to Earn Tab

3. Connect to The SwagBucks Face Book Page

4. My favorite and I think the easiest way to earn bucks is by Inviting Friends under the Promote Tab. When you sign up they give you your own referring link . When you send out email invites or post it to your Face Book everyone that clicks on your link and signs up will give you bucks the more bucks they make through searching, polls, referring friends, etc... the more bucks you make. You can also Get referrals by placing a Swagbucks.com banner on your website, blog, or social network profile.

5. Every time you turn on your computer.

Here are some FYI's

1. You can only redeem Swagbucks for 2 prizes a day. Maximum 5 per month, no matter the value of the prize.

2. I like Amazon.com Gift Cards. The $5 ones require less SwagBucks then the $25 G.C.

3. They issue Gift Card codes on the 15th & 30th of every month but I think it varies if those dates fall on the weekend or a holiday.

I really like the Amazon GC. I have gotten some stuff and used my GC codes and never paid a cent. It covered the Product & Shipping. I even had .31 left over that Amazon kept and when I purchased my next item it rolled over:) I am a Happy Amazon Shopper and a Swag Nut:) just try it. I promise you won't be sorry.

Do you want to earn FREE Money? Just Go Here

Freebies

2010-06-02T20:46:00.003-04:00

Free Sample of Cottonelle Ultra Toilet Paper & Wipes here. Be Kind to Your Behind with the Cottonelle Brand system of cleaning. I do like the wipes for the kids but don't really care for the toilet paper I feel like it's too soft and leaves little bits of toilet paper all over the back of the toilet (is there a name for that?) not to mention having to fish it out of my kids rears, TMI, I know. Anywho, the best thing about Freebies are... They're FREE...

Happy Memorial Day

2010-06-02T06:00:00.002-04:00

Sometimes it's easy to forget how Blessed we are to live in the country we do but every night at 9pm sharp I hear taps play all over post and am constantly reminded... that Freedom cost Someone their life. I pray every night for God to keep AJ safe and bring him home but for those who didn' make it back I am glad to be reminded every night of their great sacraifce.

A 2nd Language Would Be So Useful

2010-06-01T15:53:00.008-04:00

I said in the beginning that my blog wasn't really a coupon site but more about me and my family and that includes all my short comings.. and they are many. For the most part I feel like I am a great Mom but an area I need total help in are my communication skills..Ya see, I'm a yeller. I don't like to yell it makes me feel bad but what makes me feel worse is to think my babies are use to it. Now, I don't swear and I don't fly off the handle and start beating my kids but I am a yeller. And because I come from a very loud family I am a LOUD Yeller, a Deep Loud Yeller and I know this. That is why I go around shutting all the windows when I feel the yell coming out. I wish I knew Sign Language so I could yell at them and no one would hear me. Some times I think I need Meds or wish I had them but eventually they would wear off:)

AJ has now been gone 3 months with the exception of 2 weeks when he came home after school. I can handle AJ being gone. I can handle being a single Mom but what I can't handle is when my kids are mean to one another. Mainly Madison mean to Cohen.. He'll work on something so hard and when he presents it to her she just walks away or walks past him. Never acknowledge him at all. I want to rip her head off... She isn't like that to Jack and Cohen notices she favors Jack. Why? I have no idea. What is going on? I have good kids except this 1 little thing and I can't stand it. When she hurts Cohen's feelings it sends him in a down ward spiral of, She doesn't like me. She only likes Jack. I get so frustrated. First he's very sensitive and get upset when he's feelings get hurt and that happens quite a bit. Second, (and I'm just being honest) He's crying is not cute to look at or hear...at all.

Today, after school, when she called home on her walkie talkie I told her to walk slow because the boys wanted to meet her at the end of the side walk. Cohen tried and tried and tried to get both of their scooters down to her so she could ride one home. I told him to just leave it, she'll be here soon just go down there. He said, "No Mama, Sister really likes to ride it." So I watched him as he struggled and scrapped his ankles as he tried different ways to get it to her. Once again she called and I said, "Walk Slower and make Sure you say, Thank You" before I knew it she came in the house and 2 min later he came in crying and wailing his arms around. After I got done yelling at her and sending her to her room.... and BTW she didn't even say "Thank You" I yelled at him and told him to man up and just say screw it!!! Which in hind sight is not the best I know but what do you tell a 5 year old who wears his heart on his sleeve. Siblings aren't always the most affectionate I know, but she could at least acknowledge him. He is always going above and beyond to do things for her.. After calming down I took a note pad up to her and told her to write down 20 things she likes about Cohen and when I go back up I'm going to make them sit face to face so she can read her list to him. Ugggg!!! Any suggestions??? I don't want her to be calloused to his heart or any one else's for that matter. God gives us gifts and we are to love, cultivate and take care of them. I want her to see and know the treasure in Cohen not only as her brother but a precious gift God has given our family. Any suggestions??? How do I break this cycle????

Controlling a Complaining Spirit by Glynnis Whitwer

2010-05-31T06:00:00.000-04:00

"Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of the LORD, and when he heard them his anger was aroused. Then fire from the LORD burned among them and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp." Numbers 11:11 (NIV)

As we were getting ready to leave for vacation, one of my children asked for a new video game to play on the drive. Knowing all of our available funds were ear-marked for the trip, I told my child "no" and explained in a compassionate and clear reason why I would not be spending money on a video game prior to a vacation. I explained how much fun we would have and how much this fun would cost. Which, as I was sure he understood, did not leave money for buying video games.

At what I thought was a perfectly logical explanation, that same child, who should have been agreeing with me and trying to find ways to help make this wonderful vacation happen, actually got annoyed. With me. He said, with a very frustrated voice, that he never got anything he wanted. Accompanied with a heavy dramatic sigh, crossed arms and pout.

The tone of his voice, his negative words, and his dramatic body language, raised my eyebrows (I would have only raised one if I could). My back straightened and one hand rose to my hip. "Really?" I said in a low and deceptively calm voice. "You never get anything you want? On the day before we are leaving for an amazing trip that your father and I have worked hard to give you, you can actually say that you have nothing you want?"

Can I just tell you that an ungrateful spirit really is really hard for me to deal with? Especially when I know what is in store.

Sometimes I wonder if that must be how God feels when I grumble about what I don't get. Like when I went through infertility for three years before getting pregnant ... three times ... then adopting. In hindsight, God was really giving me three more years of wearing a size ten and a brain that could finish a complete thought. At that time, all I saw was emptiness.

The truth is, my child was just demonstrating a human reaction to being told "no" or "not now" by someone who knows what the future holds. Sometimes God withholds a "yes" knowing we need to be prepared to receive His goodness in His time. Other times, when we've been told "no" due to our own bad choices or those of others, God withholds a "yes" to teach us something. Or it's a permanent "no" to protect us. Whichever way, God is always working things together for the good of those who love Him.

I don't think my son ever fully understood why I said "no" to the video game. But over time, as he grew and matured, he learned to trust me more, and believe that I really loved him in spite of saying "no." Even as adults, we have trouble understanding God's ways. Sometimes we may never understand. When that happens, I choose to do a few things that help me mature as a believer. Maybe they will help you too:

1) I choose to not complain to others about God.
2) I am honest with God about how I feel, but I don't accuse Him of evil or being out to hurt me. 3) I choose to trust Him. When the doubts start to surface, I choose again to trust Him again.
4) I sing His praises. It reminds me of God's true character, which is always good.

Hearing "no" is never easy. However, as children of a loving Heavenly Father, we can learn over time to trust that He really does have something planned that we are going to love more than what we want right now. When we trust God is working behind the scenes for us, we can control a complaining spirit that threatens to steal our joy. And restore our faith in God's goodness.

Dear Lord, I know I'm often like a child when I get told "no." Help me to understand in my head and in my heart, that You truly love me, and that You are planning something good. Forgive me when I doubt You and voice those doubts in a complaining way. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

2010-05-30T00:58:00.002-04:00

Krispy Kreme is Offering one FREE donut to its patrons on National Donut Day, June 4th. No purchase is required.

2010-05-30T00:51:00.003-04:00

Now you can turn codes from specially-marked Kellogg’s® cereals into points that you can redeem for great stuff inspired by everyone’s favorite gang of toy characters. If you are a new visitor Register here today for a Toy Story 3 account and start adding up your points!

Freebies

2010-05-25T22:51:00.012-04:00

Two Free Samples of Kraft Sandwich Shop Mayo. Go here, Link to sample is at the bottom of the page.

Free Samples of Crystal Light Pure Fitness. Taste for yourself how easy it is to turn good ole water into a naturally sweetened, low-calorie drink with FREE samples of Crystal Light Pure Fitness flavor packets, exclusively from Vocalpoint. Login or register here to be a Vocalpoint member to get your free sample.

Free Glidden Paint Samples.Starting on June 1st, log on to glidden.com here for your chance to get two free testers for yourself and give two free testers to a friend. June 1 – June 7 or while supplies last.

Free Sample of Dove Men’s Body Wash. Go here to Receive a free sample of Dove Men + Care Body Wash.

Free Sample of Ritz Crackerfuls Cheddar Cheese & Bacon
“Like” the Ritz Facebook page here and then click on the link at the bottom of the page to request a free sample.

Free Pampers Potty Training Kit. Get your free kit here with samples, coupons, stickers, training materials, charts and more.

Free Sample of Galaxy Granola. Fill out the form here and be entered to win. They only send out limited samples throughout the month.

Free Sample of Playtex Gentle Glide. Go here to Get 360° tampon all-around protection with Playtex Gentle Glide Tampons.

More Freebies

2010-05-19T23:04:00.003-04:00

Have you ever wanted to try Bare Minerals? Well nows your chance. Print out your coupon HERE and take it into the Sephora counter at JCPenney and you will receive a 10 day supply of Bare Escentuals new Bare Minerals matte foundation PLUS a FREE mini Buki brush.

Freebies

2010-05-19T21:52:00.014-04:00

Free Limeade Sparkler at Taco Bell. Print out a coupon go here good for a free Limeade Sparkler at Taco Bell. Valid through 7/11/2010 or until 500,000 free Limeade Sparkler online coupons are redeemed.

Free Aveda Men Sample. Visit their website here and wait for it to load and pass the intro, then click on Request an Aveda Sample. You will get an instant printable certificate to get a free sample of Aveda Men’s Pure Performance Shampoo.

Free Lanacane Anti-Chafing Gel. “Stop Chafing, Keep Moving!” Go here to Sign up for your free sample.

Free Sample of Crest 3D Whitestrips. Go here then wait for the page to load, then click on the “Sample Whitestrips” tab on the top right. Then click “Request Sample”.

Free Sample of Dishmate Dishwashing Soap here. Fill out the form for a chance to receive a 25oz sample of Dishmate dish soap. Supplies are limited so act fast.

Free Flexitol Foot Cream. Go here, Click the free sample link on the left hand sidebar of the site.

Free Halo Pet Food. Sign up here for their newsletter and get a printable coupon good for a free bag of dog or cat treats.

Free Special K Trial Pack. Complete the form here to receive a free Special K protein bar and coupons.

Free Pantene Shampoo and Conditioner. Go here to Choose your free sample of new Pantene Customized Care and then either login or sign up to get your samples.

Free Diabetes One Touch Meter. Go here to Receive a Diabetes One Touch Meter to Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle.

More Freebies

2010-05-17T14:53:00.006-04:00

$2 off Post Natural Cereal. Sign up for their newsletter here to print a $2 off coupon for any Post Natural Advantage cereals.

Free Sample Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil . Sign up here or login to request a free sample.

Go here for Free General Mills Samples. Oh, BTW, This website is in Spanish. I am the whitest Quater-Rican you'll ever meet but I thought it was pretty self explanatory. FYI "Clave" means password and it needs letters and number.

Freebies

2010-05-17T14:37:00.003-04:00

These days, saving money is in everyone’s best interest. Here are some coupon offers for you. These would be especially great if you combine them with a BOGO. To get the coupon go here, choose the product and click on the savings offer.

Kids Summer Reading Club. Kids just need to read and log 10 books. Parents initial by each book then mail the from in, it must be post marked by October 1, 2010. Go here to print out the form and reading log.

Am I Messing Up My Kids? by Lysa TerKeurst

2010-05-17T08:17:00.002-04:00

"'Neither this man nor his parents sinned,' said Jesus, 'but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.'" John 9:3 (NIV)

Okay, moms, let's get gut honest today. Have you ever had these thoughts tug at the corners of your mind: What have I done wrong? Am I messing up my kids?

I've had two in depth conversations this week with friends and the same theme wove throughout both conversations. Our kids sometimes struggle and when they do, often our first thought is what have I done wrong as a mother? Maybe a lot of us moms have this worry that we are somehow messing up our kids.

Certainly good can come from a healthy assessment of how we're doing in our crucial role as moms. However, when the question comes in the form of a personal assault rather than a call to action over a specific area of improvement- it's not healthy.

It's paralyzing. It's draining. It's defeating.

It's evidence of a hole in the spiritual filter of our mind.

My friend, Holly, and I have been doing something since the beginning of the year that has become an absolute delight to my day. I've been determined to fill my mind with the truth. I figure the more truth I have crowded into that tiny little space I call my mind, the more untruths will get crowded out.

So, we've been taking a book of the Bible and going through it slowly- reading one chapter a day. Then we discuss what spoke to us the most.

The other day, before my conversation with one of my friends, I read John 9. One verse jumped out at me and seemed to swirl in my thoughts constantly. John 9:3, "'Neither this man nor his parents sinned,' said Jesus, 'but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.'" The way this verse kept bumping into my conscious thoughts let me know it was crucial that I think on it- pray through it- and let it seep into some deep places needing this truth.

Later when I was talking with a friend, there were little hints of that question- "What have I done wrong as a mother?"

What a delight it was to have that verse right on the top of my mind. Like a healing balm, I soothed my friend with the truth that what her son is going through right now has nothing to do with her mistakes or even his for that matter. God is helping her son work through some fears that will eventually be a mighty display of spiritual depth in his life.

Sweet sister, have you caught yourself asking lately, "What am I doing wrong as a mother?" Maybe, some adjustments do need to made.

Or maybe, this line of thinking should be redirected with a different question- "How might God work in this situation so that His work can be displayed in my child's life or in my life?" Either way, remember this truth- you are loved by God and so is your child.

Dear Lord, help me process my motherhood journey using the filter of Your truth and nothing else. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Freebies

2010-05-17T07:03:00.010-04:00

Go here to grab a Free note pad. After you fill in your info and click submit a pop up for cool savings will come up. Just x out the pop up and it will go back to the note pad website where it will say Thank you for your order delivery will be within 6-8 weeks.

Free Personalized ESPN Poster . Go here to Personalize your free ESPN poster with 3 easy steps! I haven't done this, so let me know how it turns out.

Go here to Request free Cheddar Cheese Gourmet Popcorn from Orville Redenbacher.

Go here to Request your eco-friendly hand sanitizer

Freebies

2010-05-17T06:50:00.005-04:00

Free Sample of Emergen-C. Go here, After the website loads, click on the free samples link in the top right corner request your sample.

Free South Beach Livng Fiber Fit S’mores Bar. Just complete the question and form to get your free sample here.

Kids Eat Free This Weekend at Ikea!

2010-05-14T15:51:00.002-04:00

This weekend, From Friday May 14-Sunday May 16, Ikea is hosting another one of their Kids Eat Free promotions, with lots of choices (depending, of course, on location). In some spots you'll be able to choose three kid-friendly delights to make up the free meal: meatballs, macaroni and cheese, peanut butter and jelly sandwich, yogurt, cookies and chocolate milk.

Visit Ikea's Web site for more information, and to check if your closest store is participating.

Nooks & Crannies

2010-05-14T08:16:00.004-04:00

Ok, Ya gotta know it's Spring when your in the shower finding gobs of hair, that's suppose to be on your head, in places you can barely reach. I'm surprised I still have any hair left all I do is shed. Why is it, Oprah or The Doctors have never done a show on the Dangers of your Nooks & Crannies? It's bad enough us Women have to stand in life threatening positions in the shower just to shave (have you ever had your leg slide off the shower wall with a razor in your hand? Not Good.) and we have to stay kept up with our beauty rituals... Washing, Toning, Moisturizing & Waxing not to mention Dear Aunt Flo that comes to visit every month. Note to "The Big Man Upstairs":) I don't want to be bald but I could surely do without the shedding:)

and more Freebies

2010-05-13T19:07:00.003-04:00

Free Spicy Chicken Sandwich at Chick-fila. Make your reservation for an EXCLUSIVE premiere tasting of the Spicy Chicken Sandwich. From May 31 – June 5, Chick-fil-A is giving a limited number of FREE Spicy Chicken Sandwiches to customers who make a reservation. To make your reservation, visit this website beginning Friday, May 21 and choose your preferred Chick-fil-A Restaurant location and time.

More Freebies

2010-05-13T13:20:00.005-04:00

Go here to Suave's FB page and click on the Like button to get a Free Full Sized bottle of Suave.

Go here to get a Free 8x10 photo canvas from Canvas People. My sister got one as a wedding gift and I absolutely love it but it would be a great gift for any occasion.

Free Lip gloss at American Eagle's Aerie. Every Thursday during May the folks at Aerie stores are giving a free tube of lip gloss to their best customers. Sign up now for their affinity program to be sure you're eligible, then walk on in each Thursday and leave with your very own Super fruit Vitamin Mini Gloss. Go here to find a store near you.

Freebies

2010-05-13T08:12:00.003-04:00

Free Too Faced Lash Injection Pinpoint Mascara. Next time you arrive at a Sephora store inside JCPenney make sure you use the coupon below to get yourself a free Too Faced Lash Injection Pinpoint Mascara. Go here to print your coupon.

Go here and Click on the top corner menu then click on Free Stuff to give Edge Shave Gel your email address and you'll get Free stuff like special offers, Free Stuff or web updates.

Freebies

2010-05-13T07:25:00.011-04:00

Go here to get a Free Burpee's Garden Vegtable Guide.

Go here to request a Free sample of Eucerin body lotion.

Go here to get a $1.00 off of Organcy's Orgainc Pads and Tampons and a Free Sample.

Bring Your Own Bag auto cling-on for your car! Go here to request your Sample.

Style Art's Free Four Color Pen!This sample does ask about 4 questions. After submitting another screen comes up with the option to close it or continue. Close and get your free sample or continue. Go here to Request a completely free sample!

MailFinity Free Scissors!When you fill out the form and click submit another screen with another offer comes up. There is an option to proceed if you wish or close out. If you close out a message that your free sample will be sent comes up. Go here to Request your completely free sample!

Freebies

2010-05-13T06:50:00.008-04:00

Free Sample of Dove Shampoo for Sams Club Members. Just go here to sign up for your sample.

Free XYNG Sample.Xyng is an energy and appetite control product that is sure to add a little zing to your life and help you look and feel great. Go here and scroll to the bottom to request your Sample.

Free Sample of eb5 Anti-Aging Facial Cream. Just go here and tell them where to send it and to whom, and your free sample will be sent right away.

Free Cooking Light Magazine. Sign up here for your completely free one year subscription.

CVS

2010-05-12T07:03:00.005-04:00

4- 2 Liter Neastea Drinks
4-Bayer Low Dosage Aspirin
4- Reach Waxed Floss
2- Bags Dove Choc Minis (not pictured)
1- Creast Pro-Health Toothpaste
4- Right Guard Sport Deoderants
2- Shick Hydro Razors w/ refill cartridge
2- Boxes U Kotex Liners
2- Secret Clinical Strength Deoderant

This week is a great CVS...I paid $13.16 OOP and got back $12.oo ECB. I also got 2 bags of Dove Chocolates not pictured. Here is a list of what I got. Keep in mind AJ has a card as well so, this is for 2 cards but it was still only $13.16 OOP for both cards.

2 liter Coke products on sale for .88 each
Reach floss $1.99 = $2.00 ECB (limit2) =FREE

Crest Pro-Health Toothpaste 4.2 oz. or Rinse 8.4 oz. $3.50 = $3.50 Ecb (Limit 2) =FREE
Right Guard Sport, Total Defense or Dry Idea 2-4 oz. $2.99 = $2 Ecb (Limit 2) use coupon found here = FREE
Schick Hydro 3 or 5 Razor System or Cartridges 4 ct. $8.99 = $4 Ecb (Limit 1) =FREE
Use the $5/1 razor coupon from the 5/9 SS
U by Kotex Liners 50-60 ct., Pads 14-18ct. or Tampons 18 ct.$4.99 = $4.99 Ecb (Limit 1)=FREE
Dove Chocolates 2/$6 When I scanned my card going into the store I got a CVS coupon for $3 off the purchase of 2 Dove or M&M's
Bayer Aspirin low dose on Sale for 10/$10 I bought 4 but had 4 $1.00 MFQ = FREE
I found the Secret Clinical Deodorant on a Clearance end cap for .75 each and had a MFQ for $2 of 2

I think I could have gotten it all Cheaper than $13.00 but the kids were starting to get restless. Plus Why is it, when I go into a store the cashier has been bored for at least 10 min but as soon as I get up there with my multiple transactions a huge line magically appears and they need to call for back up?

Freebies

2010-05-11T10:11:00.004-04:00

**Receive a voucher code for 1 free movie ticket with the purchase of specially marked packages of Tampax Pearl or Always Ultra. Redeem online voucher code for free movie ticket. Each code is valid for 1 movie ticket for any showing of any movie at participating theaters. Maximum ticket value $12. Code expires 10/31/2010. Ticket will expire 30 days from the date issued online. Offer is only available to residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia while supplies last. Restrictions apply. Go here to see what theaters are participating in your area.

Freebies

2010-05-11T09:39:00.005-04:00

Go here to get Free Sample of Dove Deodorant.

For a Free sample of Old Spice Odor Shield Body Wash go here

Go here to get a Free Sample of Secret Clinical Deodorant
Prescription strength deodorant without the prescription.

Meet Alex

2010-05-11T07:05:00.000-04:00

Did you know that childhood cancer is the leading cause death by disease for children under the age of 15 in the United States? I cannot ignore this statistic, and I hope that you won’t either. I have decided to join the fight against childhood cancer by holding an Alex’s Lemonade Stand fundraiser.

Please take the time to learn about my efforts by visiting my fundraising page: http://www.alexslemonade.org/stands/22362

The money that I raise will go directly to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer, a 501(c)3 public charity, to fund childhood cancer research and help improve the lives of childhood cancer patients and their families now.

Please help support my efforts by making a donation online, visiting an upcoming event, mailing your donation, or asking how you can help.

Thank you for joining me in the battle against childhood cancer. Our Stand will be held Sat. May 15, 2010 You can go here to donate and find out more about Alex's foundation.

Freebies

2010-05-10T18:46:00.005-04:00

Free Signature Veria Incense Kit
Take their quick user survey here and they’ll send you a signature Veria incense kit. Scroll to the 3rd slide on the main page.

Free Wysong Epigen Pet Food Sample
Available June 2010. Sign up here to be notified when they launch and also receive a free sample.

Free Sample of Dove Daily Moisture.Repair and protect your tresses with Dove Hair Care for a soft, smooth look. Try a free sample here today and get great hair tomorrow!

Free Nivea Lotion or Body Wash.Sign up here for a free sample of Touch of Happiness Body Wash or Happy Sensation Body Lotion.

Reshaping My Family Tree by T. Suzanne Eller

2010-05-10T11:31:00.000-04:00

"Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me." John 15:4 (NIV)

The manager at Atwoods just might think I'm a stalker. I'm the one in the Red Durango driving slowly by the garden section every time I'm in town. I've already selected two hardy trees on the Atwood lot, and I can tell you exactly where I'm going to plant them when it's time.

Spring. Just breathing that word makes me happy. Flowers. Birds singing. Digging happily in the dirt. Yesterday I knelt to admire the dark shoots on my Knock Out rose bushes, and the green buds on my perennials.

But there is a tree that used to cause me pain. The branches of my family tree bent under the weight of addiction, of phys ical and verbal abuse, of parenting patterns that didn't work but that were handed down from generation to generation like bad apples.

When I became a mom, I determined that my family tree had to grow in another direction. I had nothing to cling to in the natural. My parenting knowledge was based on a broken childhood filled with chaos.

That's when faith was grafted in.

I prayed as I walked my colicky baby girl. I asked for strength when I was mentally exhausted from piles of laundry, from nursing, and from encouraging and disciplining three little ones. I closed myself in my bedroom, getting alone with God when I had a fight with my teen, admitting that, "Sometimes I don't have a clue, God." Faith didn't make me a perfect parent, but it did give me hope that I could be the mom I wanted to be.

Motherhood was often challenging, but it was also an immense blessing.

Today I'm still a mom, though my role has changed. I have two sons-in-law and a daughter -in-law I love like crazy. And now little Elle is on the way. My first grandchild will be born in July, and Gramma can't wait to hold her in my arms.

Even as I write this, I fight tears because I can clearly see how Jesus answered a young mom's prayers.

Maybe, like mine, your family tree is crooked and gnarled with disease. You don't have to do it alone. Grafting in faith is simply inviting Jesus into the process. Faith plants seeds of hope. It prunes away parenting patterns and legacies that caused injury and harm to you, so that you can give your children something greater.

And greatest of all, new branches sprout, taking you and your family in a new direction entirely.

Dear Jesus, I invite You into my family tree. Where there is brokenness, may You be the Healer. Where there is disease, may You prune so that new life can begin. Come alongside me as a mom. Let me see the beauty of these children You have placed in my heart and in my life. Thank you for walking with me every day.

Freebies

2010-05-08T17:57:00.003-04:00

Free Pedometer Sign up here to receive a free pedometer from Nature’s Bounty and take an important step towards good health.

Go here to receive a 0.28-oz. packette sample of Sheer Blonde Highlight Activating Shampoo and Conditioner for Darker Shades, please complete the form below.

This Is The House That Love Built

2010-05-07T20:07:00.021-04:00

Everything in my home, as I'm sure is with yours, is of some sort of memory. I don't change things up for new or better and I like to keep everything people give me..even clothes (like house coats) my 88 year old Granny gives me, all because I like the memories they have. It's all a part of me. My memories of Granny in the house coat and the times we shared laughing and gossiping:) or the lamp that I feel in love with in NH while shopping with AJ's mom but he didn't want me to buy it because he said, "We didn't need anymore crap in the house." Well, guess what? I got it a couple of weeks later at Christmas because his Mom bought it for me and said, "Every woman has a lot of crap and 1 more thing isn't going to make a difference." The house is me personally, physically, emotionally and spiritually and when people pour the love into me it helps build me into a better Mom, Wife, Friend and Christian.

As I got home tonight from Madison's soccer practice I noticed some flowers on my door step. I picked up the box thinking AJ has gone and tricked me again. He sent me my Mothers Day Gift early and now he's sending me flowers. (I Love flowers) I opened the box with excitement, ripped open the card and started reading. Before I knew it my eyes started swelling up with tears as I read...I know that you're alone up there but you're not God is all around you! and it continued....

Anyway, as I continued to read the card and continued to cry it was signed Love, Josh, Ammie, Caleb, Clay & Emalee. Whenever I feel down they seem to brighten my day and they don't even know it. There have been many times they have blessed me but one of my favorite other times was Christmas 2008. AJ had gotten transferred to Maryland August 2008. We hadn't sold or rented out the house yet so the kids and I had to stay behind but without Daddy it didn't feel like Christmas and I didn't know if I wanted to dig out the tree. I thought we would go to my Mom's on Christmas Eve and just use their tree. Well, the kids and I came home from, I don't remember where and we came in through the garage like we usually did but a little later I went to the front door and there in the living room was set up the most beautiful Christmas tree I had ever seen. It just amazed me that some one's heart was that big and loved us enough to do that for us. Not out of obligation and not because I asked them to but because they felt my broken spirit and wanted to.

I have 2 favorite holidays during the year; one is my birthday the other is Mother's Day but with AJ in Afghanistan the holidays aren't the same when there isn't anyone to share them with but as I look at my beautiful flowers, read and re-read the card I am reminded I am not alone as people I love and people who love me continue to help work on "This House God & Love are building"

Freebies

2010-05-06T15:33:00.003-04:00

Free Nivea Lotion or Body Wash. Sign up here for a free sample of Touch of Happiness Body Wash or Happy Sensation Body Lotion.

Go here for a Free South Beach Livng Fiber Fit S’mores Bar.Just complete the question and form to get your free sample.

Freebies

2010-05-06T15:10:00.005-04:00

Enjoy a free snack with a 3oz sample of Cheez-it crackers. Go here to get the free coupon and then use it at your local RaceTrac stores. Expires 6-07-10

Free Can of Libbys Vegetables. Go here to visit their Facebook page and click “Like” to get to the form.

2010-05-06T07:22:00.002-04:00

I was up this morning giving God "My First Fruits" of the morning and loving every precious moment with him. I love the quietness of the early morning My babies are still sleeping peacefully in the bed (notice I only said 1 bed..yeah, it's mine) and everything is so fresh, peaceful and new. My mind isn't all rattled from the business of the day and I can just concentrate on him.

The thing I really wanted to tell you about is the Bible I have. I have used many a Bible in my day trying to find just the right one for me. Well, a few years back, more like, 4 or 5 I was at Mops convention and found this NIV Mom's Devotional Bible. It is soooo Awesome and speaks to me as a Christian and as a Mom. I absolutely Love it. If you don't have a Bible or you're looking for a new one. This is the one to have. You can go here to Amazon and check it out.

Freebies

2010-05-05T13:30:00.004-04:00

Go here to get an Awesome Kraft Summer Sample Pack. Taste what’s new and delicious this summer by signing up to receive your Delicious Summer Sample Pack for FREE from Kraft Foods. (Offer expires 5/10/10. While supplies last.) You must “Like” the Kraft Foods Facebook page to sign up.

2010-05-05T13:26:00.001-04:00

2010-05-05T13:23:00.001-04:00

Free Glade Relaxing Moment Gift Basket. Go here and be the First 6,000 to respond will receive a gift basket filled with Glade Relaxing Moments products in refreshing fragrances.

Discipline My Body by Marybeth Whalen

2010-05-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

"I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified." I Corinthians 9:27 (NLT)

As I shared with a woman I met about our family's journey out of $95,000 worth of debt, she posed a question that stumped me. "That's great that you guys did that," she said. "But do you really think that people out there are willing to do the hard work it will take to get out of debt?"

I confessed to her that I couldn't answer for other people. I could only share what we had experienced—what we knew worked. She responded that she thought people were looking for simpler, easier solutions than the arduous four-and-a-half year process we went through. I knew she was probably right.

Days later as I was struggling through the first mile of my run, I thought about her question and compared it to my lack of motivation to lace up my running shoes that day. I didn't feel like running. I didn't want to stop what I was doing at home and take time to go running. I didn't want to do the hard work. The phrase "I discipline my body" went through my mind. As my legs pumped and my muscles strained and my heart cried out for relief, I certainly understood what Paul meant when he wrote that verse.

As I ran, my mind cycled through the many other things in life that are worth doing, yet require us to "discipline our bodies" into submission to accomplish them. In some instances we must physically discipline our bodies. Taking care of ourselves, exercising, and making healthy eating choices requires resolve, sacrifice, and some hard work.

In other instances we must emotionally discipline our bodies. Choosing to honor our husbands, or ou r parents, with our words and attitudes requires a continual humbling process that our flesh rails against.

Still other times we must spiritually discipline our bodies. I am learning it's not enough just to say I want a close relationship with God. I have to "discipline my body" to pursue Him. This includes getting up early when my body wants to sleep longer so I can start my day by having a quiet time. And I can't say I want to live by His Word if I am not willing to spend time studying it, disciplining my body by foregoing my desire to veg out in front of the TV in favor of reading the Bible.

I am learning that most things in life that are worth doing aren't going to be easy. Yet my flesh—my lazy, insolent, ugly flesh—continually hangs onto the thought that it should be easy.

Sometimes my flesh wins out, I won't lie. But for the most part I am learning that when I make the effort to "discipline my body" I am always glad later that I did.
Maybe there's something that God is urging you to do that's going to require disciplining your body. Maybe you have resisted it because you don't want to go through that. From someone who understands that battle, might I urge you to take the time, and submit your body, heart and mind to the process? On the other side of your effort is a transformed life waiting to happen.

Dear Lord, I know that doing the right thing is not usually the easy thing. Help me to follow Your ways and not my own. Help me to commit to the changes I know I need to make in my life. And let me feel You guiding and encouraging me every step of the way. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Da Qupon no good

2010-05-02T10:58:00.012-04:00

I can't stress enough how much I despise going through the commissary check out lines. I love the deals when I can find them but to be honest I rather not have to deal with the cashiers... Let me share my last interaction with those little women. This really blew my top.

A few months ago I went grocery shopping. The kind where you have to buy odds and ends because there was random stuff everywhere but nothing you could really pull together to make sense for dinner.

Well, I had my coupons in order got my items and went through the line and I'll tell you they don't give you ANY time to get organized. They just rush everything through. These ladies are such fast ringers they're waiting on you to empty your cart.. Finally after feeling all rushed and stressed I got the cart emptied. All of this and my kids weren't even with me. After throwing my last item on the conveyor belt I rushed to her side to check my financial progress. She quickly scanned something through and I said, "How much did that ring up?" My ready to cook prepackaged microwave ham thing rang up wrong. and I had 6 of them so it was really wrong! I told her how much they were and where I got them. She went to the back to get it then came back with sale sign in her hand and had the nerve to tell me the price was per pound. Already aggravated, (remember being rushed) I spoke in a louder and firmer voice..." Lady, I can read.. That sign did not say per pound! It's prepackaged." I quickly thought, "You know what, It's not worth it, just take them off." She looked surprised and called her supervisor over where the proceeded to talk in front of me... about me... in their native language.. which was not.. English!!!!!! I once again spoke up a little louder, a little more firmly and said, "I'm standing right HERE!" Then together they took off the ham.

Next she rang up my milk and that rang up wrong but I was calm. I figured I could take that to customer service and get a refund but the last straw was when she started arguing with me about a coupon for a Free Single roll of paper towels. I had enough. I look at her and with the most Southern accent I could muster up, I said, "Forget it! I don't want any of it, just put it back and... I'll be needed my coupons." (True Story) She was quite surprised. I mean she looked like I just reached out and slapped her. Then she said, "you no wont none dis?" Remembering my manners I politely said, "No Thank You" and walked away. I was half way to the door when I remembered my babies needed milk and this poor woman's lack of knowledge was not there fault. So I walked over to the buggies got a new one and went back through the store all over again. Of course I was secrectly praying they weren't watching me and and had no desire to escort me out, after all; they do have the cheapest price on milk.

By the time I was done my 2nd time around I only grabbed about 20 items so I could go through self check out. On the down side I spent a lot of time in the store. On the upside when I did self check out I was able to see that 5 out of the 20 items I had rang up wrong so I saved some money. I wonder how many over stretched moms "with their kids" go through the lines and spend way more money that necessary?

After that I decided to never again go to the cashiers.. Yeah, sometimes I go through self check out, take my stuff to the car and go back again... and again and I have rang up 26 items instead of 20 but I am a much happier shopper and I don't have to deal with the cashiers.

The upside to the commissary are some of the deals (when they have them).

After coupons I got these for .25 each. I won't have to buy jelly until 2012:)
The Jelly was on sale and the commissary ladies were passing out coupons.

These were a gold find. After coupons I paid $6.00 for 3 gallons of milk & 12 boxes of cereal. The commissary ladies were passing out $1.50 coupons for every 2 cereals and $3 coupons off 1 gallon of milk when you buy 4 boxes of cereal.

The store is Not all bad but I still don't want to deal "Da Qupon no good." when Me & Cvs know that it is:)

Glory at the Gardens

2010-04-30T12:45:00.005-04:00

Returning for another exciting year to Busch Gardens is the jam-packed festival
of music and fellowship you know as Glory at the Gardens. Be sure to stop by on
May 1, 8 and 15 to see your favorite top acts in Contemporary Christian, Christian Rock and Gospel perform. Go here for more information.

Gotta Love It

2010-04-30T12:14:00.005-04:00

I love Sales, Deals, Couponing Yard Sales... Really, Anything that will save me money:) So, Today I gladly went to the start of the Semi -Annual kids Wee-Cylce Consignment Sale for our area and it happened to be right here on post:)

I got a couple of button down shirts for Cohen's new bow tie look and a couple of things for Madison but what I really loved was the deal I got on this adorable basket $6.00 (I love baskets) I'm sure it will be of many uses in the future. I can hear AJ say... What do you need another basket for?, like he's sitting right next to me. My answer, "Umbrellas, Baby."

Freebies

2010-04-30T12:10:00.003-04:00

Free Aveda Hand Relief Sample. Go here to print out the offer and take it to any participating salon/spa or store to receive a free lavishly sized Aveda Hand Relief sample.

Get a free sample of Bounty Paper Towels from the Sam’s Club website here. You must have a Membership Number to get your sample.

2010-04-28T15:03:00.004-04:00

Kelly at http://www.couponcuttingdiva.com/ reports Harris Teeter will be tripling coupons that are .99 cents and under 4/28-5/4. I LOVE me some triple time. I usually get alot of free and very cheap stuff especially cleaning products. You can use 20 coupons per person per day. Go here for a good list of coupon match ups.

Freebies

2010-04-28T14:53:00.005-04:00

Free Sample of Eucerin Daily Skin Balance. Simply fill out your information here to receive a free product sample while supplies last.

Go here to choose your free sample of new Pantene Customized Care and then either login or sign up to get your samples.

Freebies

2010-04-28T14:10:00.010-04:00

Go here to get a Free Sample of John Frieda Root Awakening
Stronger, more manageable hair starts at the roots.

Want a Free Aveeno Nourish Hair Care Sample?
Go here to Become a fan of Aveeno on Facebook to access the free sample form.

Free Sample of Loreal Everpure and Everstrong
Visit the website here and click on Special Offers & Savings in the bottom left corner and then you will be able to choose a free sample offer. You must register first to sign up for the offers.

Free Gas-X Thin Strips. go here to

Free Gillette ProGlide Razor. Until May 1st) Gillette will be offering the first 1,000 people to sign up here each day a free sample.

1) Click "Get Started"
2) In the PIN field, paste this unique PIN number: cHFPcWFUUStBZWc9
3) Click "SUBMIT"

Free

2010-04-22T07:16:00.007-04:00

Free Gillette ProGlide Razor. Become a Fan on Gillettes Face Book page and be one of the first to try the new Fusion ProGlide.
For the next 10 days (until May 1st) Gillette will be offering the first 1,000 people to sign up each day a free sample.

Go here to Sign up for a free sample of OB Mighty Small Tampons.

Win Free Reese’s Cups. Go here to enter for your chance to be one of 10,000 lucky fans to win free Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Ends May 17th.

Go here to receive a free sample of Dove Men + Care Body Wash.

Free Gold Tote Bag
1. Register here for the Red Gold online e-newsletter, Tomato Country.
2. Purchase at least one can of Red Gold Brand tomatoes.

3. After registering, enter the 12 digit UPC barcode on the back of the label and the 14 digit product code found on the top or bottom of your can.

Offer Valid April 19, 2010 to May 7, 2010 or while supplies last

Limit 1 tote bag per house shold address

Memorial Garden

2010-04-20T10:54:00.003-04:00

This weekend we had the privilege of helping Madion's school create a memorial garden for 2 children who were killed in the Hatti earthquake while attending a funeral for a family member. The children weren't in Madison's class but that didn't matter we were very happy to help. Children are a blessing from God and there were a lot of little blessings out there getting their little hands dirty just to do their part.

The kids trying to clean out weeds and rocks from the garden

Alison and Cohen were the biggest helpers. I was so proud of them. Even Jack was hauling heaps of grass to clear it out.

Free

2010-04-19T23:04:00.015-04:00

Free Sample of Loreal Everpure and Everstrong
Visit the website here and click on Special Offers & Savings in the bottom left corner and then you will be able to choose a free sample offer. You must register first to sign up for the offers.

Free Sample of John Frieda Root Awakening. Go here
to request your Sample

Free Ensure Shake. Go here to receive coupons for a free Ensure shake, plus a coupon for a discount off of a 6 pack.

Free Yoplait YoPlus
Create your profile here to sign up to receive the Betty Crocker email newsletter, access exclusive member benefits on BettyCrocker.com, and receive a coupon for your free sample of YoPlus.

Free Sample of Parent’s Choice Infant Formula

Free Myoplex Nutrition Shake. Go here to
get a coupon good for a free EAS Myoplex shake.

A Monring Prayer by Lisa TerKeurst

2010-04-19T09:29:00.001-04:00

"Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name." Psalm 86:11 (NIV)

It is very early in the morning. Not many people are stirring yet.

Though my body begs me just to roll over and go back to sleep, my soul is stirring to get up and go sit with Jesus.

Though I can't physically see Him, I know He is present.

I decide to open my Bible to the Psalms and use the verses I read as prayers to start my day.

And the more I pray those verses out loud the less I hear all the nagging things of the world. A beautiful melody of truth starts to rise up and suddenly my worries fade in the light of God's truth.

His perspective on things that are troubling me starts to over shadow my anxiety. Like shade on a hot summer's day, I feel relief in His presence.

I know that He is preparing me for what I will need throughout this day. He is already standing in every minute of my day and He sees what I will face. So, He's equipping me to be able to handle what is ahead of me with His gentle boldness, quiet strength, and loving grace.

In Psalm 81:10b, God instructs me, "Open wide your mouth and I will fill it." He will give me what to say today. What to say in happy moments. What to say in aggravating moments. What to say in moments where I feel insecure and what to say when I feel completely confident. What to say in disappointing moments. What to say in response to questions.

He also reminds me that sometimes it is good to keep my mouth closed and say nothing at all.

All the words that rumble about in my brain and those that will proceed out of my mouth, Lord, You be the author of those.

Psalm 84:1 reminds me that G od's dwelling place is lovely. So, I ask God to dwell in me richly. I want Him to be what radiates about me. I want Him to be my pretty today.

Not my hair. Not my outfit. Not my efforts. But simply Him and His spirit dancing invisibly about me... shifting a wrong attitude, guarding my words, and whispering constant truths into my heart.

Psalm 86:11 is what I ask the Lord to give me. "Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart..."

Lord, may nothing separate me from You today. Teach me how to choose only Your way today so each step will lead me closer to You. Help me walk by the truth and not my feelings.

Help me to keep my heart pure and undivided. Protect me from my own careless thoughts, words and actions. And keep me from being distracted by MY wants, MY desires, MY thoughts on how things should be.

Help me to embrace what comes my way as an opportunity...rather than a personal inconvenience.

And finally, help me to rest in the truth of Psalm 86:13a, "Great is your love toward me."

You already see all the many ways I will surely fall short and mess up. But right now, I consciously tuck Your whisper of absolute love for me into the deepest part of my heart. I recognize Your love for me is not based on my performance. You love me warts and all.

Have mercy, that's amazing.

But what's most amazing is that the God of the Universe, the Savior of the world, would desire a few minutes with me this morning. Lord, help me to forever remember what a gift it is to sit with You like this.

Dear Lord, I love You. All that I have read here is the desire of my heart. I know and confess that sometimes my actions and reactions betray my love for You. Please forgive me. Thank You for Your grace that is able to recognize this new day as a new chance to walk closer with You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Stop Clipping!

2010-04-17T21:05:00.006-04:00

Several months ago; one of my best friends and fellow blogger http://www.couponcuttingdiva.com/) told me to STOP cutting coupons. She had been to a seminar and the lady showed them a different way of storing coupons. This is it. A simple combination of a $5.00 filing basket, hanging file folders and Manila folders.

When you get the Sunday paper, you just write the date on the tab and file the inserts in that folder. As you search the blogs for the sales they tell you what coupon, how much it's worth, the Sunday date it came in and the insert it's in (RP, SS, etc...)

I absolutely love this method. It is so fast. Now, I do still have my huge note book for the blinkies and other clipped coupons I collect but I no longer have to sit there for hours cutting and going through plies to clean them out:) Thanks Kelly

Free

2010-04-15T18:24:00.003-04:00

Proctor & Gamble is offering a Free Sample of Cascade ActionPacs. Go here to sign up or login to P&G Everyday Solutions to get a free sample and coupons.

Hair Bows

2010-04-15T14:04:00.004-04:00

A Tisket... A Tasket; Not enough hair bows in your basket??? My Friend, Sheri, over at Purely His is giving away a $25.00 Gift Certificate to Picture Perfect Hair Bows. Go here to enter on Sheri's Blog. The winner will be chosen randomly on April 23rd. If you blog about this on your site you will get 2 entries:) Good Luck!

Peta Celebrates Earth Day

2010-04-14T22:08:00.005-04:00

Since Earth Day is right around the corner, PETA Kids wants to help you get off on the right foot. So they're giving you a chance to win a pair of these slip-on leather-free shoes!

Go here to complete the registration form by April 19th for your chance to win. One lucky boy and girl will be chosen at random and notified on April 20.

FREE

2010-04-14T08:34:00.001-04:00

Free Sample of Lever 2000. Go here for a Free 1oz sample bar from Costco’s website. No Membership ID needed.

FREE

2010-04-13T16:47:00.009-04:00

Free Sample of Dove Daily Treatment Conditioner
Moisture or Repair conditioner samples available.

Free McDonald’s Fries on Fridays

Every Friday during the month of April receive a free small fry at McDonald’s with a ny purchase.

Free Sample of Dove Men’s Body Wash
Receive a free sample of Dove Men + Care Body Wash.

Great Faith by Micca Monda Campbell

2010-04-12T06:15:00.000-04:00

Then Jesus answered, 'Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.'" Matthew 15:28 (NIV)

I used to covet others' faith. I'd watch the spiritual "giants" in my church and community and wonder why they were given a greater faith than me. It didn't seem fair. Even worse were people with great faith who never seemed to have any type of adversity. Do you know the kind of people I'm describing?

One day, I decided to get to know a person with obvious great faith. I think it was one of the best things I've done to increase my own faith. The first thing I learned was people with great faith got it from their abundance of trials, not from their lack of trials. Trusting God in one trouble gave them courage to trust Him in another. Before the y knew it, they had developed great faith in God. Great faith didn't happen overnight; it was a process.

Through the course of trusting God, we discover several things about great faith. First, it leads to great undertakings. Take the Gentile woman with a demon-possessed daughter found in Matthew 15 – pause to read her story if you can. She cried out for Jesus to heal her daughter, but she received no response.

This action on Christ's part can seem confusing. Therefore, it is important to know that this woman was not only a Gentile, but was of Canaanite descent. The Canaanites were an immoral people God had commanded Israel to completely destroy during their invasion of Canaan under the command of Joshua. Israel did not fully obey God's order and some Canaanites survived the invasion. This woman was their descendant. Nonetheless, this didn't stop her from appealing to Jesus for mercy and help.

Annoyed by her attempts, the disciples urged Jesus to send her away. She was a nuisance to them, but to Jesus the woman was an example of great faith. She was determined to do whatever was necessary to get what she needed.

Great faith also brings about great expectations. If you're like me, you often don't expect great results from your labors and prayers. This is because we lack faith. This was not true of the Gentile woman. She expected the Savior to heal her daughter.

That's not all. Great faith awakens great earnestness. This woman didn't play by the rules so to speak. She didn't care what others thought about her actions. Crying, she fell at the feet of Jesus and worshiped Him. I've seen this kind of earnestness in others with great faith as well. They pray with persistence until God moves.

Great faith conquers great difficulties. The woman kept on pursuing Jesus, begging even though He reminded her of her position as a Gentile, not a Jew. Christ responded to her request, "It is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to their dogs" (vs.26). In other words, why should He give her, a Gentile, what He had come to give the Jews?

Her answer to that was to agree with Him, "Yes, Lord." And then throw herself on His mercy again by adding, "...even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master's table" (vs. 27). She understood that even one morsel of God's power was more than enough to heal her daughter. Pleased with her faith, Jesus commended her.

Finally, great faith achieves great victories. Jesus rewarded the woman's faith by healing her daughter. Our difficulties can be overcome by expressing great faith in Christ's mercy and love, which provide for our needs.

Great faith isn't given to some and not to others. It is a choice we make to trust and pursue God even when at first there appears to be no response.

Dear Lord, my circumstances call for great faith. Today, I'm ready to undertake whatever I need to do in this situation. I expect You to hear and respond to all my concerns. With earnestness, I promise to seek Your will in this area so that I may be more than a conquer. Victory is already mine because I trust in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

FREE

2010-04-11T19:42:00.008-04:00

Go here for your Free Stouffers Pot Holder
Register new account and get 100 points. Then Select earn points tab at the top. Next take 10-12 question survey.
Then redeem more points and select pot holder!

Free Kraft Macaroni & Cheese. Sign up here to receive a coupon good for a free box or cup of Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Cheesy Explosion.

Free “New” Fries at Jack in the Box on Friday 4/16
Visit any participating Jack in the Box on Friday 4/16 to receive a free small fry. No purchase or coupon needed.

Free Chips and Queso
Receive a free welcome gift of chips and queso from Chili’s when you sign up here for the club.

2010-03-26T06:00:00.001-04:00

The road less traveled was defiantly traveled. All 12 hours of it...by myself with my 3 little side kicks. I d0 have to say my kids are Awesome travels. Not to mention the fact that 2 are boys and we had plenty of empty bottles:) (f you get my drift) My babies are no strangers to road travel and to help them and myself I feel the key is to Be Prepared.

1.Stay on time.. If you want to get to your destination at a certain time. Make sure you coincide bathroom and gas breaks. (remember empty bottles)

2.If all everyone does the entire trip is eat and drink your stopping will be crazy. After all they don't sit in school eating all day. So make sure to limit snacks.

3.Save some money and some stopping time, Pack a meal. Make muffins for breakfast or make a lunch (crustables etc..) and don't be a worry wart about the kids spilling snack foods like pretzels, gold fish or even french fries. If you break down the lost food in the seats and floor boards will come in handy later while your busy.

4.Even though we have one in our car I'm not a big fan of the DVD player so they're limited to 2 ..MAYBE 3 movies but be prepared! Take some books so the kids can add it to their school reading logs. Work or puzzle books (Don't over pack on toys!) I feel like the less they have the more occupied they are with each other. Life has too much technology. Different video games, music, movies.. I always tell my kids Life is passing you by right outside the windows. That is where life happens not on a TV or video game.

5.And MOST IMPORTANTLY kids feed off of you emotionally. If you think it's going to be a long journey and they aren't going to do well. They're not. Be positive! Look at it as an adventure and make sure to include them. Listen to some music they want to. Play I spy. Sing a "Road Trip" song where everyone makes up their own verse. (That's one of our favorites. We'll drive to the grocery store and the kids will ask to sing the "Road Trip" song.) They grow up so fast. I value our little road trips so much. I love to hear them laugh, play and interact with one another.

I do admit all of the ABC's and 5 little ducks do get on my nerves after a while that's why I LOVE Go Fish (another MOPS great) they let me rock while the kids roll. This CD is ALWAYS in my CD player. Take a listen to one of my fave songs.

If you have any helpful traveling tips let me know under comments and I'd love to share them.

2010-03-25T06:00:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't remember this movie? Couldn't you just taste the soap Ralphie's Mom put in his mouth when she heard him say one of the worst words in the world?

Before anyone starts freaking out none of my babies have said any of "those" words. When one of my kids sheepishly walk up to tell me someone said the "S" word." The "S" stands for Stupid.
Unfortunately, I still don't like all the things they say, especially when they say it just because it makes each other laugh... and It's Not Funny! The only reason they're laughing is because they're 7, 4 & 2 (almost 5 & 3)

"What are these horrifying words"? You ask. Poop, Pee, Fart. but not with such innocence. It's more like.."I'm gonna poop on you" or "Wait a minute.. Wait.. Ahhh, I farted on you. Do you smell it? No? Wait. Smell it now?" And it's truly embarrassing when they say that stuff in front of their friends or other people. Like MY friends.

Today after hearing Madison talking for a few minutes I got up and firmly told her something I don't think she was to happy about because she knows I'm just crazy enough to follow through.

A few years back during my MOPS days we were at convention when I heard Lisa Welchel (blair from The Facts of Life) speak about Creative Correction. Her son had a potty mouth (I think it was just being ugly to siblings etc.. Not any 4 letter #$*%) and after much praying this is what the Lord gave her.. She told her son to go to the bathroom (that is where they awaited punishment and sentencing) She got 2 glasses. 1 filled with clean fresh water. The other she dipped into the toilet and filled it with the toilet water. She continued by telling him the things that were coming out of his mouth were ugly and filthy like toilet water and the things that should be coming out should be pure and good like Jesus; hence the clean water. Then asked him "Which cup would you like to drink from"? The hour long segment she shared that day flashed through my mind in 10 secs.. maybe less. So this is how mine went.. "Stop it! Stop talking like that! I'm sick of hearing that crap".. Do you want me to put toilet water in a cup so you can drink it? Do ya?Because that is what it sounds like, toilet talk! If I keep hearing you talk like that your gonna be drinking toilet water. Is that what you want? Well, do ya?"

I'll be the first to admit this wasn't exactly the same approach Lisa used but I feel like it was effective and just FYI, I wasn't yelling we had company so I was very calm but FIRM and plenty of (crazy) eye contact. By the way I know these words are not the end of the world and there may be greater obstacles down the road but I'm still wiping kids butts around this house and I don't need to hear it too.

Disclaimer: I would never actually make my kids drink toilet water (It would make them sick) but I might be willing to make them think they did:)

FREEbies

2010-03-22T20:04:00.007-04:00

Free BORBA Age Defying Concentrate. Simply complete the form here and you will be the first to receive a free Borba skin care product sample when they are available.

Go here to fill out the form to try a sample of NutraSalt low sodium sea salt free of charge.

Go here to Receive coupons for a free Ensure shake, plus a coupon for a discount off of a 6 pack.

Free Pack of 5 React Gum. Go here then click on the left side of the wsite to connect with Facebook to get to the freebie.

Harris Teeter

2010-03-22T16:13:00.004-04:00

I read over at Coupon Cutting Diva that Harris Teeter is going to Triple coupons this weekend starting 3/24. You can triple up to 20 coupons per visit per VIC card. They will triple coupons up to .99 cents. mycouponteacher.com usually list some great match ups. Go here to check her out.

Prepared by God by Wendy Blight

2010-03-22T06:00:00.000-04:00

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

In 1988 I entered Southern Methodist University School of Law. I invested three years of my life studying day and night so I could make law review, graduate in the top of my class, and land a job with a large Dallas firm. It all happened just the way I planned ... making law review, graduating in the top 10 percent, and landing that big downtown job. It was a good thing too because my husband and I went into debt for that education. But no worries. I got the high paying job I wanted.

I spent the next year applying all that I had learned, working day and night, researching and writing legal briefs. My long hours pa id off as I began arguing cases before local, state, and eventually federal court judges. I even had the honor and privilege of writing a brief that went before the Supreme Court of the United States of America.

But in the end, I hated it.

After investing thousands of dollars in my education and thousands of hours researching, writing, and arguing, I hated it. At age 28, I remember saying, "Lord, why do You have me here? I find no joy in what I do. What is it You want me to do? And, Lord, what about all this debt?"

I had no idea the wonderful way in which God would answer those questions. Twenty years later, those research skills taught me the methods that I now use to study and break apart God's Word. Arguing before judges prepared me for the speaking and teaching He has called me to. The writing skills prepared me for writing a book that tells an amazing story of God's hope and healing in the midst of difficult circumstances.

Now in my 40s, I realize th at God created me not to be a lawyer, but to be a Bible teacher. He has called me to break apart His Word and teach it. There were steps along the way that I do not understand. There is a debt we still need to repay. But God has been faithful.

Friend, if you have landed here today wondering what in the world God wants to do with your life, I want you to know one thing. Not a single thing in your life will be wasted. God will use your past and your present to prepare you for your future. He has a beautiful plan ... a call on your life. He is waiting to reveal it to you.

Jeremiah 1:5 says, "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as My prophet to the nation" (NLT).

Psalm 139:16 says, "You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed" (NLT).

Sweet friend, God brought you here today. He wants to remind you of a precious Truth. Hear it and never forget it...before time began, before God spoke the world into being...He had you in His heart. God chose you to be His child. God has a perfect plan for your life. No one else has your plan, your family, your gifts, your talents, your heart, your education, your past, and your present ... NO ONE.

He chose you to use you to do great things for His Kingdom ... things that only you can do.

He is preparing you...even now.

But to be used by God, you must TRUST Him with your past; BELIEVE Him for your future; BELIEVE He has a plan for you; SURRENDER your life to His Plan, and BELIEVE He will equip you to do what He has called you to do.

Win an Easter Basket Filled With Vegan Candy

2010-03-21T23:00:00.001-04:00

You could win an Easter basket filled with chocolate bunnies, lollipops, and more! Go here to Enter the contest now.

Say What????

2010-03-18T23:37:00.006-04:00

Kids say the funniest things... Sometimes... and sometimes there's a fine line between them being disrespectful and just being honest and feeling like they can tell you anything. Most times I opt to believe in the later.

I was laying in bed with Madison tonight when she asked what the fold was on the side of my chest by my arm. I comfortably told her, "it's a fat fold". She just looked at me. I said, "ya know babe, I haven't always looked like this". I continued to say "I was skinny at one time." She said, "I know, I've seen the pictures but you did have,... you know.. a big butt."

I have always been a full glass thinker and I don't really see it as having a big butt but rather.. I was the one who inspired J-Lo:)

These were way back in the day June 1999. We were married at The Duck Inn at Va. Beach, Va. as AJ's cousin Lori would say..."Duckin Right"!

VocalPoint

2010-03-17T06:24:00.007-04:00

"VocalPoint...VocalPoint...VocalPoint", If I say it enough maybe you'll be saying it in your sleep:) What is VocalPoint? Only one of the most amazing FREEbie & information sites brought to us by a division of Proctor & Gamble. (Sounds like a commercial, right?) They also have additional information & tips on Health & Beauty, Food & Recipes, Around the House and More and it's totally FREE to join. Just go here to sign up.

But before you do.....

Not only do they give great FREEbies but when you get your goodies in the mail they come with really and I mean really... Awesome coupons. Remember my latest Target trip and all the Kashi cereal? I got a sample in the mail on Sat and it came with 4 coupons. 1 for a FREE box of Kashi cereal (not that I'm a lover of the Kashi,, I actually like all things sugar but it's actually not a bad snack mix without the milk) and 3 $1.50 off MQ's.

Now, don't you want to be a VocalPoint member?

FREEbies

2010-03-17T06:12:00.005-04:00

Go here to get a Free Sample of Dove Daily Treatment Conditioner
Moisture or Repair conditioner samples available.

Free Puffs Plus To Go Pack. Register for your free Puffs Plus sample from Vocalpoint. If you are not a member, sign up here to become one free!

Target

2010-03-16T06:00:00.000-04:00

Have I told you lately how much "I LOVE couponing?" and all I do is follow certain blogs. I do exactly what they say and there is minimal work for me:)

First I buy 2 newspapers... Every Sunday, then I pull out the coupons and put them in a file folder with that Sundays date on it.

Then I search the blogs. They tell me what item is on sale and where I can find a coupon for it. RP (Redplum) SS (Smart Source) etc...

So, I just wanted to share pictures of some trips I've made over the past couple of weeks.

This was a couple of weeks ago. Target had a deal that if you bought 5 boxes of 100 calories right bites you get a $5.00 Target Gift card. Sounds expensive, right? Well, it pays off.. I bought 5 of these. Now the blogs said to use $1.00 MQ (Manufacture Coupon) for each one. I only had 2 coupons but the kids needed snacks and I was getting that $5 GC so my hopes were high:) My Total was $13.45 - (2) $1.oo MQ = $11.45 OOP & I got a $5.00 GC back. This was purchase #1

Purchase #2..I can't list all the coupons I had but, I will tell you everything that was FREE.

4 fur fighters... FREE

2 Reach Floss'..FREE

4 Old Spice Body Wash Travel Size...FREE + Overage

4 Gillette Men's Body Wash.. FREE + Overage

2-4 packs 60W light bulbs...FREE

Everything did have coupons with the exception of the toy microphone which I got for my sick baby.. hence the Gatorade (no coupons) Total after coupons $10.13 - my $5.00 GC from purchase # 1.. Total OOP $5.13

The Target I was already at for Purchases 1 & 2 didn't have anymore Special K fruit crisp so I headed to another location in hopes of finding some. Why the hunt? Because you got a $5 GC for buying 5 of these as well. The Total was $12.50 - (4) $1.00 off MQ & (1) .75 MQ & (2) 1.00 Coupons..OOP I paid $5.75 and got a $5 GC to use at a later date.

Last week I wanted to use some MQ I got from the coupon clippers so AJ and I headed out. All he kept saying was it better be free.. it better be free.. "Oh Ye of little faith" I can tell you and so can he with out any doubt. Our total came to $10.60 OOP and that was because of the T-ball glove AJ wanted to get Cohen that cost $9.99 plus It would have been cheaper but I forgot to give the lady my $5 GC from the previous weeks purchase..Oh well I can't complain. Here's what we got.

1 T Ball glove

2 Kids Crest full size toothpastes

2-4 packs of Men's Dove soap w/ mini body wash

14 travel sized Old Spice body washes

3 Gillette men's body washes

1 Gillette Men's deodorant

5 Card games (Scrabble Slam, Pictureka & Sorry) they cost more than $5 each

Then yesterday I went for another Target run. We are out of cereal so it looked like a good idea to me. Plus I got a sample box of Kashi cereal in the mail this weekend form Vocal point and it came with some awesome coupons so after some coupon combining here it is..

4 boxes Mini Wheat's cereal on sale 4 for 10. Whne you spend $10 on participating Kellogg's cereal you get a $5 GC

3 boxes Kashi cereal

1 box Kashi granola bars

1 box Kashi whole grain crackers

2 bottles Dial hand soap

2 Gillette men's deodorant

1-4 pack men's Dove soap w/ mini body wash

After all my MQ and printable Target coupons (which included 2 for free boxes of Kashi) the total was $9.50 then I so happily gave the cashier my $5 GC from last week Special K buy and OOP I paid $4.50 and FYI 1 box of Kashi is $3.29

So once again I say... Why don't you "Coupon"?

I Want to Leave a Legacy by Melanie Chitwood

2010-03-15T06:00:00.001-04:00

"I will sing of the lovingkindness of the Lord forever; to all generations I will make known your faithfulness with my mouth." Psalm 89:1 (NAS)

What do your children think of when they think of you? Their answers would be very revealing, wouldn't they? One day in early elementary school, Zachary came home with a Mother's Day picture he'd created for me. In the middle was a lovely portrait of me, wearing a dress made in my favorite colors of pink and purple. Then around the picture his teacher had told him to write four different words to describe his mom. He wrote: reading, napping, chocolate chip cookies, and laughing. His words made me smile with their accuracy.

Every day we are leaving our fingerprints on our kids. What do we want our children to think of when they think of their p arents? A mom who was gentle and firm in her discipline or a mom who flew off the handle easily? A mom who seemed permanently attached to her phone or a mom who was available for life's big and small moments? A mom who occasionally went to church or a mom whose love of God was a part of her everyday life?

A legacy can be defined as "something handed down." Every day through our words and actions we are developing a legacy to be carried in the character of our children. It's easy for the busyness of life to keep you from being purposeful in your parenting. Let's decide today to leave the legacy we really want. Let's make sure it's a legacy not born of busyness and urgency, but one born of purposefulness and prayer.

It always helps me to remember that God is a parent too. So who better to turn to for parenting advice? It also helps me to know that God loves my children even more than I do, and He will fill in the gaps for me and Scott as we seek Him first. No matter what kind of parent you've been, today you can decide to add to and improve the legacy you are leaving. These are the only days we have with our children. We don't get them back. Let's begin today to be the parents we really want to be.

Dear Lord, thank You so much for each of my children. I need Your help every day to be the parent You want me to be. Lord, I'm human and I know that as a parent, I've made mistakes and will in the future. Lord, redeem the past and strengthen me for the future. Lord, thank You that You will give me Your love, wisdom, strength, direction, and patience to be the best parent for my children. Help me to leave a legacy that brings You glory and one that will enable my children to know how much You love them. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Walking on Sunshine

2010-03-14T17:56:00.015-04:00

Before we ever moved one of the first things we started looking for was a new home church. One that was family oriented and where we felt at home. It took 6 months but we found one. They are so family oriented that one of their Church Values is "Family Worship."

Parents, as seen in God's Word, have the primary responsibility for teaching and modeling worship and truth to their children, (Deuteronomy 6:7; 11:18-21). We are committed to developing a structure of ministry in which your children can receive age appropriate ministry and, in addition, be included in corporate worship as part of our church family, (Deuteronomy 31:12-13).

Another opportunity for our Family to Worship is by giving. On Valentines Day they collected shoes for Soles4Souls. Go here to check out their website. The kids and I went through the house gathering shoes that were too small or ones that we had multiple pairs of (More than 1 pair of flip flops etc..). Here's a video put together by the students from our church. They collected 1168 pairs of shoes. When the collection started some came to church with shoes and left with out any on.

Back in January our Children's Church participated in the Karis Project. Pastor Donnie insisted on one parent staying with their child and together you took items previously donated (from everyone in the church) and filled backpacks that would be passed out to homeless people. There were socks, hats, blankets, tooth paste/brushes, deodorant, combs, shampoo, soap and a lot more that we packed up. When we were done we prayed over the back packs and the people who would get them.

Pastor Drew said it very well this morning when he said "Giving is about Trust" how simple is that. I give trusting God will multiply it for the receiver. I give trusting they will know the love of God and I give trusting God will take care of me, either here on earth or in my heavenly home.

It can be money, prayer or even time but it's such an awesome feeling knowing that you have helped someone else. Being able to teach and instill the act of giving to my children is very important to me. After all it's not what you have but what you do with it that counts.

Free Stuff

2010-03-12T19:30:00.006-05:00

Free Sample of Tide with Febreze. Sign in or register here with P&G Everday Solutions to request a free sample of Tide with Febreze Freshness plus a $1 off coupon.

Free Downy Fabric Softener Go here to get a free sample of Ultra Downy Fabric Softener from the Sam’s Club website. No membership number required.

Retreat with Jesus by Amy Carroll

2010-03-08T09:30:00.001-05:00

"Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things." Psalm 107:8-9 (NIV)

When a new neighbor moved in next door, Caroline rallied the troops in her neighborhood to prepare a warm greeting. She and her friend planned a feast to take over to welcome the newcomer to their community. Caroline called her new neighbor and was surprised when her hospitality was met with suspicion.

"Why did you say that you wanted to bring me dinner?" the new neighbor questioned. Caroline explained that it was a tradition in their area and that they'd like to deliver dinner to welcome her personally. The neighbor responded, "I tell you what. I'll give you a call when I'm h ungry." Click.

Caroline reflected on how many times we treat God the same way that her new neighbor treated her. Each day God lays out a feast and invites every believer to come eat our fill. I had to ask myself an important question: How many days do I rush by God's table and throw an "I'll come when I'm hungry!" back over my shoulder?

I think I'm full, but God knows that I'm simply ignoring my hunger. I need to sit down daily to eat and be filled from God's table. Luke 1:53 says, "He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty" (NIV).

I long to have a heart to approach Him daily just as I am—poor and hungry. He invites me to come to Him so that I can leave rich and full. What a glorious exchange! What a divine pleasure!
Daily time enjoying God is essential, but sometimes God gives us an invitation to a private, extended feast. I am envious of one of my pastors. He takes a week each year for a spiritual retreat to a monastery . He goes where it's quiet and simple and spends a week with Jesus. Maybe someday when my children are older and I'm caught up on laundry I'll be able to do that, but recently God led me to do something equally wonderful on a smaller scale. I took a spiritual retreat during the school day in a room at my church.

As I walked up the stairs to the empty room, I felt nervous. I had spent hours in prayer with others, but I had never spent this long alone with God. Would I have enough to say to Him? Would He speak to me in the silence? Would the minutes drag by? Would I walk out unchanged or disappointed?

At the end of the day, my questions were answered. God met me there. We filled our time together with prayer, Bible reading and worship. God spoke words of direction to me in the silence. I came in knowing that I was hungry, and He was faithful to fill me.

Having mini-retreats with Jesus is something that I plan to do now at least twice a year. In the midst of a fu ll life, it's necessary to intentionally set extended time aside to seek His face and worship Him. I'll still look forward to a week in an abbey, but in the meantime I'll bask in a school day retreat as I renew my relationship with God and feast on His goodness!

Dear Lord, help me know You are good. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

What's up with that?

2010-03-04T12:55:00.006-05:00

Today, as I was cleaning the house, and it usually takes a while because I get distracted quite a bit.. hence me blogging, I noticed I should probably clean out the refrigerator. It was just the usual kind of stuff like spilt liquid spots from Madison pulling drinks in and out of the frig and just general yukiness. I proceeded to pull things out to spray down and clean it when I noticed a pile of leftovers over on the counter.

What is up with all that food? I am making less because of AJ being gone but where did it all come from? I will admit that the kids and I (for the most part) don't do left overs so what do I do with all the food? I feel bad throwing it away but I can't imagine making any less because that will be the day the kids are starving and want like 2 or 3 servings. Plus there taste is changing. From week to week they like different things..Anyway, Does anyone have any suggestions?

2010-03-01T23:39:00.007-05:00

On Wednesday nights my babies have been going to their classes at church with such excitement. They have been learning songs and dances for a VBS expo our church held this past Saturday. Even though VBS isn't until July the church was packed with other churches learning about Saddle Ridge Ranch (LifeWay's VBS Theme for 2010)

Saddle up for VBS 2010 where kids will be ridin' the range and roundin' up questions like: "What is God's plan for me?" and "How can I be like Jesus?" At the end of the day, they'll discover that God's Word has all the answers.

Scripture: James 1:5 "Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him." HCSB®

Motto: Need Answers? Ask God!

My Babies singing their hearts out......

And we absolutely could not leave with out this picture. They thought this was the funniest thing.

A Morning Prayer by Lisa TerKeurst

2010-03-01T07:00:00.004-05:00

It has been way too long

2010-02-28T07:00:00.002-05:00

First and foremost I need to say I'm sorry I haven't written on a regular basis in so long. I got busy with the Holidays, my family that came up (which I absolutely loved), the mountains of snow and mentally preparing for AJ's departure to Afghanistan, and even though they all seem so small individually, together my days have passed by so quickly.

My site is in no-way a coupon finding zone or a bargain hunter's dream. I like to leave that up to the professionals; instead I like to share my heart, my happenings and occasionally some freebies I have found so, I am back and with a ton of stuff to say. It has been a busy Winter season so stay tuned. If you have any thing you would like to see on the blog or enjoy reading please let me know. More recipes, craft ideas, polls or even announcements... just whatever

BTW.. Thank You so much for the recent wonderful emails I got on some of my past blogs. They were very encouraging to me and meant a lot.

2010-01-18T20:23:00.008-05:00

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The Desires of His Heart by Jennifer Erin Valent

2010-01-18T05:00:00.001-05:00

"Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 (NIV)

When I was young, my girlfriends and I used to play a game where we would choose different ideals we had for our lives, from whom we wanted to marry, to what car we wanted to drive. Life seemed so simple then! In just one short game, I could plan my life out from start to finish. Funny thing is, I never did marry Johnny Depp, I don't live in a mansion, and I don't drive a Porsche.

Well, I was young, and it's certainly a blessing that I didn't end up having to live out the life I planned for myself then. But what about now? As an adult, I've had plenty of dreams for my life. I think I'm pretty intuitive about myself, and I've got a good idea how I think things should go. And since Scripture says the Lord will give us the desires of our hearts, shouldn't these things be coming to pass?

Maybe not. The Lord knows a whole lot more than we give Him credit for, and maybe what He has planned for our lives doesn't match up with what we have planned.

Jeremiah 29:11 says, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future'" (NIV).

What a promise! In just a few words, this verse tells us how much God loves us and how much He wants to bless our lives. He wants our short walk on this earth to be worth so much! But then, what about those desires of our hearts? Where do they fit in?

The Hebrew definition of the word delight in Psalm 37:4 is interesting; it involves the idea of being soft and pliable. Makes me think of clay. I've used small blocks of clay before, and in order to be able to work with on e, I need to hold in it my hands and get it warm and soft, ready to be formed into the shape I intend for it to be. Sound familiar? "Yet, O LORD, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand" (Isaiah 64:8, NIV).

As the Potter forms us, we begin to know Him more. His thoughts become our thoughts. That's when God does more than grant us the desires of our hearts; He actually provides us with those very desires. We no longer want what we want, we want what He wants. And it is most certain that whatever the Lord wishes to bring to pass in our lives, He also desires to freely give us.

We're so often caught up in our own ideas that we forget to listen to His. What a difference it would make if we had God's best intentions at heart. If we could just step out in faith that our Father wants our very best, and that of all things on this earth, we could never have better than what He gives. What peace that would bring to us all. What delight that would bring to our Lord.

And what gifts that would place at our feet when He both provides and fulfills the desires of our hearts!

Dear Lord, help me to see how much You love me and how much You want for me. Take my heart in Your hand and fashion it after Your own heart so that I will know the beauty of what You desire for my life. In Jesus Name, Amen.

2010-01-15T06:56:00.004-05:00

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Free Sample of Glad Force Flex – Sam’s Club
Go here to get a free sample of Glad Force Flex Trash Bags if you have Sam’s Club Membership Number.

2010-01-14T03:59:00.002-05:00

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