Be Anxious For Nothing

 She's three weeks old today....All the anticipation and anxiety have long died off and the new is growing strong.

In the last two weeks of my pregnancy I was filled with an anxiousness that would only leave when I talked to my Heavenly Father. He was the only way I could receive peace in this crazy head of mine.

I thought she would arrive early. 12 days to be exact...Because 3 of my babies came 12 days early. With all the early intense contractions.....The nights I would wake out of a sound sleep and breathe deep because they seem so close to the real thing. This peace would come and go...never really taking root in my heart.

My midwife had certain days that she would be out of town. And it was so close to that moment when new life was to arrive....And I would beg the Lord to please let this baby come when my midwife was in town, because I couldn't imagine having this baby with out her.

You see I've known her for about 15 years now. She helped me bring Sunshine girl into this world. She traveled through Tornado's to get to me. She made it with in 5 minutes and Sunshine girl made her appearance.

And as the years have gone by one by one she delivered 3 more. With each child our bond grew. And I can't quite explain it........ this relationship I have with her. She has coached me and encouraged me through the toughest pain I have ever had to bare. She helped me to see the beauty in the rawness of it all. Pulled strength from me that I never new I had. And I Praise God for her.......

And doesn't God place people in our lives at just the right moment...at just the right time. When I was worried, He already had it planned out. He knew what was going to take place and who would be there.........I finally stayed peaceful in the last week of my pregnancy. I came to accept the fact that she might not be the one to deliver this child and I would need to be okay with that...because God was already okay with it.

If you have ever prayed to God for Peace and then finally received it, you will know what I mean when I tell you it's a feeling that overwhelms all your senses. It takes over and lets you rest. His Peace is like the coziest of blankets all snug and close. A  place that you can go and feel safe.  A calm like no other....That's what I felt when I finally let go and let GOD.

Little Zoey Anne arrived 3 days late Just like 2 of my daughters had. But was she really late? In God's eyes I believe she was right on time! He answered my prayers and allowed my midwife to be the one to help bring another into the world yet again.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6

Trying so Hard Not To Repeat

I've held on to life with a grip so tight it could actually choke out the beauty and mystery of all that it holds. I've turned away and put up walls, blocked out the Son and refused to see the light.

 I've even been known to look inward, always focusing on ME.......

I've hurt hearts, offended friends, and got involved in brokenness that wasn't mine to fix. I've said words that cut through steel and made actions with out ever minding the consequences......

I've chosen unwisely and had to live by my choices....I've had to learn how to mend and know that sometimes I will never be forgiven by others here this side of heaven. But it's in forgiving others that I find peace....

I've seen raging hearts and weak souls and turned and walked away knowing full well I could of made a difference in someones life but, was too busy with my own......

And through all my mess ups and the dirt I dragged my muddy soul into I am being molded and refined. And it's not always easy, the lessons that I learn are not always so simple. And most times I barely come up for air from the hard blow of it all.

But over the years I am still learning GRACE......And Grace has picked me up out of that muddy hole more times than I can count.....And hear my heart, each time was a lesson learned, one that I try very hard not to repeat......Because in this life,  a lesson learned is a sin not repeated.

As I look at this life of mine at the age of 42.......I can honestly say:

My grip on life is not the choking kind.....I have learned to let go when I have to.......when I need to. And most importantly when I do let go, God shows me the beauty in the adventure when I thought there wouldn't be.

I'm attracted to the light and find I always want to walk in it's glow.

I may still hurt hearts but, it's never my intention and when I'm made aware I reach out for forgiveness. I also understand I may never receive it....and that's okay.....I am forgiven by my Heavenly Father and that's truly what matters.

I stay clear of brokenness that was never mine to fix........But I will pray for healing.

I now look for raging hearts and weak souls... I have an overwhelming need to comfort them. To let them know there is a greater LOVE. And when I look outward my eyes see what His heart aches for.

I choose my words and decisions wisely....And still my tongue can manage to sting and my actions may offend. I never claimed to be perfect.....I'm just a sin soaked Mama saved by His Amazing Grace. I may get it right from time to time and then again I may not.......But I live my life differently because I'm always learning, trying so hard not to do the repeating.......

Canning Pumpkin

Some people have asked questions like: "Why do you bother canning when you can go and get it from the store?" My answer, Because that makes me dependent upon someone else. I want to be independent and self sufficient.....And really it tastes so much better than store bought! I know what goes in the jar because I'm the one handling it. It's a skill that should be passed down. I mean if we were all truly honest with our selves, the way things are going over there on Capitol Hill, we all better learn from our ancestors and teach ourselves some trade skills. Skills that will make our lives a little more comfortable. Because truly, it will matter if you are wise in being prepared and being sufficiently independent! And last but not least, I really enjoy doing it! It's my release.....

This is a large recipe for canning pumpkin. I used 8 pie pumpkins for this recipe. The first thing you wanna do is preheat your oven to 350. Then cut your pumpkins in half and scoop out the seeds. Place your pumpkins on a cookie sheet open side down and bake until you can poke a fork through. About an hour.

Scoop your pumpkin out and puree it in your blender. My 8 pumpkins gave me about 24 cups of pureed pumpkin.

Add:
8 C Brown sugar
8 Tsp. Cinnamon
2 Tsp. Nutmeg
3 Tsp. Ginger
2 Tsp. Ground Cloves

Stir until mixed well and put in pint jars. Process at 10 lbs. Pressure for 20 minutes.
Disclaimer: The USDA does not suggest canning pumpkin because of safety issues. 

But I have asked around and found several ladies who have been canning it for years with no trouble. They consider themselves the "Canning Outlaws"......And well, when someone says I can't do something.....I tend to do it any way. *Smile* So yes now I am a "Canning Outlaw".

I processed 18 pints of canned pumpkin almost 2 weeks ago and all have sealed well and still remain sealed. You must use a Pressure canner! Absolutely no hot water bath!

I tried this pumpkin before I jarred it and it is absolutely delicious!!! I will be using it for Breads, Cookies, Pies and everything PUMPKIN!

 I had to share another pic of my shelves just to show you how much they have filled up in the last month or so! This is where I am creative, this is my profession and I take it seriously! I love stuff like this! I love being prepared and providing for my family! This is what I'm passionate about....Being a Stay at home wife and Mama!!

My God Fearing Man

As Christians we are called to be giving and forgiving. But we are also called to gain wisdom through Jesus who gives us life.

 I have stood on the sidelines watching my man be one of the most giving and forgiving people I have ever come across. Time after time he has given so much of himself and his possessions to others when ever they were in need! Lots of times those things never return and lots of times the favor is not given back and yet this man of mine still gives with a very generous heart!

I've always stood behind him whispering in his ear as to what and how I think he should handle his situations......Over the years he has taught me that being hasty and abrupt and telling people what you would really like to tell them is not always the best answer. Patience? Yes this man of mine has patience beyond anything I've ever witnessed. He is a people person. In that I mean his people skills and how he handles his business is a true testament to his character! I can't tell you how many compliments I get about this man of mine and the character he possesses! No he's not perfect...He is sin soaked just like me.....I do have to say God made him to be a perfect fit for me!

But I believe that even the most patient and giving of people have a breaking point....And there comes a time when you just can't let things go. There comes a time when you have to stand up to what is right. Being walked on is not being wise! And it let's the unwise keep repeating the offense not only to you but, to others down the road!

And recently that's just what he has done....He stood up and let the mud slide off his back! Will he forgive? Yes I believe he will. Contrary to his rough outer exterior his heart is soft and pliable. As his wife I have been witness to this many times over! But forgiveness does not mean that the offense goes unrecognized! Will he keep on giving? yes I believe he will. But I believe the wisdom he has gained will make him more cautious next time. You can't help those who don't care about anyone but themselves!


I have to say that I have learned so much in watching him live his life in the 21 years we have been together. In our Marriage God comes first! I firmly believe that our marriage today would not be as strong and intimate if it weren't for the the both of us discovering that God is the man in charge!

He has helped me to become a better child of God, a more loving wife and a better Mama to his children. I was only 20 when we met and I had a ton of growing up to do and I know with out a doubt I would not be where I am today if it wasn't for my God Fearing Man teaching me and guiding me a long the way!

Thank you just doesn't seem to be enough! So very proud to be your wife!

The Good Mama Journey

Being a good Mama is being aware that your not always going to get it right. Your bound to mess up...That's the nature of the sin soaked. Being a good Mama is knowing when you have failed and then picking up the pieces to start new again. Being a good Mama .....Well sometimes you have to say your sorry but, it's not just in the sorry, it's in the action after the sorry that really matters.

And I can't ever claim to be the perfect Mama or the Nobel prize winner of the perfect wife......What I can claim is GRACE and how it has washed over me when I've muddied up this God given soul. A lesson is only good if it's a lesson learned and a mistake not repeated again and again.

Some say I'm a veteran Mama because I have been through a variety of ages.....I've had long term experience so to speak. But there are still days that I feel like I'm flailing about. Some days I'm just like that new Mama all scared not knowing what I'm doing...I still need help and guidance.

What I can tell you through all this crazy up and down life is that I don't regret the journey because I have not walked it alone. I've seen the hand of God even when my stubborn eyes were burning with all the wrong I had fallen into.

One Mama comes walking through my door and shares her heart saying she wishes she could be me......Oh sweet friend your sin may be different than mine but it is sin just the same. Your walk has taken you down a different path and as long as you follow the God/Man He will always steer you back on track. Precious friend your witness is one that I'm not equipped for. Your passion is one that I'm not meant to have.

You kept saying you have screwed it all up.....Made too many mistakes......The line has been drawn and you can't seem to cross over.

What I see is a Veteran Mama. A Mama who has a story to tell. A great witness to young Mamas out there that see no way out. I see a loving Mama......One that gives all she can and then some. One that hasn't given up despite of the hard blows that have knocked her down in the past.

You see the journey is not in getting it right the first time....It's not in the perfection or what you think others may have. It's not in wanting to be someone else. The journey......The good Mama Journey is knowing when you have messed up and then asking God to pick up the pieces to put you back together, not the way you used to be but better. So much more Beautiful than what you once were. He can't use you if you have yet to be broken........

And sweet Mama I must tell you I have been broken........I have a story that's all my own. One that you would not want to trade with me. I'm sure of that! But you see what you are looking at now is one who has been put back together in a way that only He can. And some day I know that He will put someone in my path and I will bare witness of all the grace that has washed this sin soaked Mama clean....

But until then I will go on living for today, the way He wants me to live.....And you......You are Beautiful in my eyes......But most importantly You are His BEAUTIFUL. Created for His plan and only you can fill those shoes!

What's In A Name?

As I anxiously await the birth of our 6th child I wanted to share with you the two names we have picked out. Why two? Well because we don't find out whether it's a boy or a girl until the sweet blessing is laid in my arms. We get so few genuine surprises these days why not grab them when you can.....I have to tell you for those that think they can wait, it is so worth it!! We have literally been genuinely surprised each and every time.

When our first baby arrived we did not have a name for him until three days after he was born. We always took great care and time in naming our children but, to be honest never really thought of names with meanings behind them until we named our fifth child.  Her first name is Autum not much meaning behind that but, her middle name is Reign. We could of spelled it R-a-i-n but both of us almost immediately agreed that it should be spelled R-e-i-g-n as in our Lord Reigns. Gotta love that!

My husband's name is John which means "God is gracious" and my name....Well Kim means grassy green meadow. Now I've often wondered how that name fits me and my personality......Other than the fact that I love being in and smelling the grassy green meadows up home! Especially after they have just been cut!

 One evening we were chatting with Johnny's cousin and she said she thought the meaning of my name fit me perfectly. I looked at her kind of puzzled and she said. "A meadow is all natural. It's from the earth." And if any of you know me I am an all natura'al  kind of girl! I try very hard to do things naturally from having my babies at home to the health and nutrition of my family. If there is an alternative way I will find it! And believe me I will do the research to make sure it's the best way!!

And now we are on to naming our sixth and probably our last child. I say probably..... because age is setting in and probably.... because sometimes God might have other plans......But for now we are content with the thought and reality of six.

We did not do much name bouncing around with this one. We already had a girls name picked out.

Zoey Anne for a girl. Zoey means "LIFE" and Anne means "He favors her."

For a boy we have chosen John Jesse. Now both of our boys are named after their Daddy but their middle names are what we go by. So it is only right that we continue this trend. As I said previously John means "God is Gracious" And Jesse means "The Lord exists".

Do I wish we would of named our first 4 this way? Well maybe a little bit but in reality I love the names we have for them as well. I think it's important to take your time in coming up with a name but it's not just the name that makes the child who he or she will become, it's two loving parents that will take the time to nurture and raise the child with God's love and guidance. The name is just the icing on the cake so to speak. It's the ingredients that's put into the cake that really matters!

As of this Saturday I will be 39 weeks. Yes I am anxious! Yes I am uncomfortable! Yes being pregnant is all I can think about! And yes even this I know with out a doubt has been orchestrated by God! His timing is PERFECT!

What I Don't Need

Discovering what I don't need lately is like recapturing all the lost in my life........All the things I put on the back burner, the things I save for later that never get touched.

What I don't need is extra time away from my family.....FB tends to do that if you let it......All the technical gadgets seem to steal you away from what you were given.... From the blessing you were meant to be.........From the blessings you need.

Because what you want can surely over power your needs. And you may be surprised when you discover "your needs" were really just wants.

And can't you just see life moving when you drop all that holds you captive? Aren't you more aware of the people in your life? The ones that really need you. The minutes can waste away and turn into hours and days....And before you realize it, years have passed.

I wanna look back and know that my every minute was worth living. There is no worth in waste.

I need to create a space....a life with less because in reality less is definitely more. When your life is cluttered with stuff you have to spend time taking care of that stuff and your mind it tends to wander away from this life your living now and all that it can hold. Clutter and technology turns your heart away from God, family and friends......Makes you untouchable. No longer a physical being who needs touch and fellowship, but a being who becomes self absorbed and lonely. Escaping all the blessings and forgetting how to be a blessing.

And as wonderful as FB is for keeping in touch it can quickly become your idol. Just as the nic nacs and stuff that take up your counter tops can keep you from thinking clearly and seeing the beauty in simplicity.  They say everything in moderation.

God says " Keep your mind on things above and not on earthly things." Colossians 3:2

My life has been a whirl wind of bustling activities and excitement for the arrival of our new baby. I've purposely cut my time back on the things that take me away from being a blessing so that I may see the blessings in front of me.

It's amazing how much more clearly I see...............

Worth The Money Spent

Right out of the gate this school year there are two things that I really am glad I purchased and they are:

The Picture Smart Bible and A Living History of Our World

I wanted to share pictures with you this morning but blogger won't let me......I'll try and share them later.

The picture Smart Bible is what we do first thing in the morning for our Bible time. And that includes all my students! Don't be scared away by this program if you have high school students! It works for them as well. You don't have to struggle at trying to keep your younger ones attention and it's not too simple for the older ones. The program is even meant for adults!  While I read from the teachers guide I instruct my children what to doodle,  color and write. It helps them to retain what they are learning. Very impressed with this! Go to their website above and check it out!

The second is A living History. As soon as I saw this I knew I would love it! With out a doubt it is absolutely one of my very favorites! I added craft kits from Hands and hearts and they tie right in with what we are doing. The kids beg to do History! I wrote about this curriculum earlier when I had just purchased it you can read about it in the link above.

As a homeschooling mom I know that finding the right curriculum that fits for you and your family can be exhausting both mentally and monetarily. So when I find something I like this much I must share! *Smile*

I'm Still Learning, I'm Always Learning

We have officially started our School year this week.....And something seems different this year.

I have a young man who is trying real hard to graduate a whole year early. And I'm praying for stick-to-ativeness ....Is that even a word? I don't know but, I've heard it been said  many times before. He has a good head on his shoulders..Lot's of common sense and determination. He's got goals and dreams and I want to see him fly.....Just as long as he remembers to come back home and rest in His Mama's Kitchen.......And may he always feel home in his heart near or far......

And my Sunshine...somehow she is morphing into this beautiful young woman before our eyes and I don't know how to stop it.......She is strong, bold and determined. Wants things her way....tries to organize my chaos.....my organized mess. And I have to laugh cause I love how she is. She is nothing like her Mama but yet our hearts seem to intertwine and mingle and create this beautiful harmony.

My two middles are right where I think they should be and then again I wonder why is it I feel them slipping from my grasp. Watching them grow and become their own.......And when I look at them I try not to blink because that's what I did with the first two and look at where they are now....

I'm trying to wait patiently, with out anxiety for number 6.......And Little Autum, She keeps asking when baby can come out to play. Everyday she hugs my belly and gives her little partner a kiss. And I smile because I remember...We have done this before. Our babies, they seem to have come in sets of two. One always had the other. And it worked so well. The best of friends and yes even the best of foes. But they always stuck together .....Gentle Giant and Sunshine, Butterfly Girl and Bubby.......

 I can't help but think this is my last set of two.......And I still haven't thought of a way to slow the moments down any.

There are some things that I have learned......First and foremost GOD must come first and when He does it's amazing how life just seems to fall into place.

I've learned how to cherish  moments. How to not make the hard moments harder. I've found patience and I have hand cuffed us together and yes sometimes lil' Miss Patience she gets out of control but not so much where I can't reign her back in. I've learned that losing your temper results in losing the battle and that just makes the war rage on.

I've learned that life is too short to harbor ill feelings, regrets and what ifs. They fill your mind and clog your heart and the results is the inability to love fully and completely with a forgiving soul.

I've learned to move on and not look back. Mistakes are bound to happen. It's what you learn from them that matters.

I've learned that my man and I.....We make Beautiful kids and with each one that we have brought into this world our love just seems to grow into another level. I honestly never thought I could fall so deeply in love and some how with every passing year it just grows deeper......It's amazing to be this close to someone. To know what he's thinking before he speaks. To know he always has my back and I his. And as different as we are sometimes, we just seem to compliment each other. He keeps me grounded when this life of mine takes flight.

And this life is just that....A training ground before we reach our final destination. When I get to the end I want to be able to say I gave it all I got. I loved with a full heart. I want to be able to touch lives and Shine bright. I want people to know where I stood....On Solid Rock. And the impact that I made was not because of me but, because of Jesus in me! And even though I have messed up more times than I can count, His Grace has always covered me.........

I'm still learning....I'm always learning.......

Life seems to be full of lessons and I'm always learning. I'll share with you some of what I know and I'll be honest with you about what I have yet to discover. And if I mess up and hurt a heart...Please know that it was never my intentions to hurt or to offend and if you would be so kind and give this sin soaked mama some grace......

Blessings to you all and may your days be filled with GRACE!

Running On Blind Faith

When life is raw and your plans don't seem to mesh with God's...............

 The more you fight what's meant to be, the further away you drift from reality. All the further you turn from God. The one who knows you best, The only one who knows what's best.....

And in the beginning it may be so hard to see and it feels so much like your running on blind faith but, beloved that's what faith is, that's how it grows, that's how it builds and gets strong. If there were never a battle we would never see VICTORY.

In all this life we stumble and fall and half the time we walk around broken, not even knowing we've abandoned the healer. And we let our troubles rise and grow until they seem to break the sound barrier And all He wants.....All He is asking is that we BE STILL.........

And when waiting on Him to show us the way we become impatient and we start to believe He's not there....And I've heard my Daddy say "Kimmy you seem to forget I'm a believer." And I tell him with tears streaming down my face...."But Dad you have to be still and listen." And Daddy, the one who has worked so hard all of his life, the one who doesn't know how to sit still and wait because all he's ever done was to keep moving and providing.......And now He has no choice but to be still.....And I hear him softly say "but Kimmy I can't hear him."

And our emotions are high and he hurts with more than just the crippling pain in his weary bones........When pride falls, it falls hard and sometimes when  we hit the ground it feels like we will never have strength to get up again....And God....His desire is not to see you hit hard but, to see how long you will stay there before you  lay prostrate and focus on Him........WE are nothing with out our maker....And yes it hurts to be molded and refined but we have to remember this is not our home.....Any child of God has to believe that we are just passing through and this is all apart of His plan not ours.......And the only way that we can find JOY is to pull deep from with in.

His plan is greater. His plan is better.

And Daddy I know this is not what you wanted.....It's not what we wanted......But it's what God wants that matters. And just because your not behind that big steering wheel  doesn't mean God's plan for you is over. You are still strong enough with God's power to do great things. Your a good man...Generous and kind, Polite and honest, hard working and faithful........

But right now at this moment I believe God wants you to be still......Listen with all your heart and know that He is GOD.

And by the way your baby girl loves you and I am so PROUD to call you DADDY! I always will be proud to be your daughter.........I know, I know......."Kimmy don't you cry!" Daddy it's too late..........

Because Your Everyday Is Not Meant To Be Perfect

I use to be the Mama who talked about having everything perfect...The one who wanted life to run smoothly with out any disasters or interruptions. The one who always expected way too much and in the end I received so little.

And how do you go from wanting everything to be perfect to accepting imperfections as your everyday?

You kneel down and look up

Ask for Grace

And then give Grace......

The funny thing is I still haven't perfected those three steps yet.........

But in all His perfection He continues to give me Grace.

This week we were suppose to start school on Monday and then life got in the way, so I moved it to Wednesday but, Mama wasn't feeling well. The expected always seems to come unexpectedly.........

So I take a deep breath because math has to be taught and there are things they must learn this year. Dentist appointments to be made. A baby to welcome into our home. Mix a little broken heart with that and you have the formula for imperfection waiting to happen.

So I kneel down

I'm asking for Grace

So that I may give Grace...........

And He doesn't want me to come all wrapped up in my perfection......No, I come broken every time. And every time His strength is made out of my weaknesses.

And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

Oh Beloved, may His Grace cover all your imperfections and His strength Shine bright with in to shine boldly through out your day.

Kneeling down, Looking up
Asking For Grace
So that I may Give Grace 

Busy Boxes

This is just one of my five busy boxes for my two year old. This one has a Farm theme. Along with each busy box I have a "Main Busy Box" that holds things like Playdough, markers, crayons, paper and stamps. I also put things in there like shape sorters, games, counters and puzzles. The main busy box coinsides with the themed busy boxes because she may want to draw, mold and recreate what she is learning about.....and yes the extra things like the games, sorters and counters are for keeping her busy just a few minutes longer. *Smile* I will only be getting these boxes out during school. I don't want them to become boring and get mixed in with the rest of her things.

I also have a Creepy Crawlie theme, Dinasaur Theme, and Safari Theme.

My plan is to start her out by reading a story to her then letting her have fun with the goods.

 This little fold able canvas tote is a barn that unfolds into a barnyard. I packed it full with little plastic barnyard animals for creative play.

 And what child does not like puppets? I found these adorable little animal finger puppets to put on her tiny fingers....They fit Mama's fingers too! I had to try them out!

 I took some books off my shelf that I have had for years and put them in the box for story time. I also added a CD with audible stories for her to listen to.

Last but not least the ever famous string and lace toys...They will either prove to be frustrating or challenging, we will see.....

I will probably add more little activities to keep her occupied but I wanted to give you a glimpse into our busy boxes before we start school on Monday.

What If We Moved With That Kind Of Passion?

If we took all the passion and stepped out and stepped up. If we left it all with total abandonment.....All that keeps us busy, all that takes us away, all that keeps us silent, all that keeps us complacent.........

If we moved every day motivated by threats of our freedom taken...... Oh beloved would there have ever been a Row verses Wade? Would there have ever been senseless actions taken to slowly rip this Country up from her Christian heritage roots?

I've always tried to keep this place free of any political opinion........But I feel I must say that What has made this Country great is the FREEDOM that was so passionately fought for.....So that you and I can speak our minds and not be persecuted for it! I want you to know that you and I may not always AGREE......But we can disagree and still be friends. If I shut everyone out of my life because we have disagreed I would be one lonely soul!  I don't hate because of your freedom to believe and live the way you choose. As a Christian I am called to love those around me and to be a light in this dark world. BUT I am also called to speak TRUTH........And I have that freedom just as you do.

Yesterday MANY stepped out and stepped up........And I have to tell you it did this girl's heart good.....Because what I saw was a shimmer of hope through all this darkness.  All is not lost but, then my heart sank when I thought of how much we have already let go. When I came home and saw my niece's post "Overwhelmed by the support people are showing chick-fil-a. What would happen if we banned together like this when it comes to abortion, prayer in schools,etc???"............How much could have been saved?.....Who could of been saved?

And why the complacency all these years? Years of stepping down and walking away.........Years of not wanting confrontation and sleeping in ignorance. And some how we thought it would never come to this.......

If we moved everyday with the passion that took place yesterday would there be the homeless, the poor, the hurt, the lonely, the hungry, the lost, and the broken?

Oh I know that we would never be able to wipe it all away.....Every tear, every broken heart, every lost soul....But imagine what we could do if we took all that PASSION and stepped out and stepped up EVERY DAY!

I read a statistic the other day....There are 163 million orphans and rising in this world we live in.....If only 7% of the over two billion Christians in this world would step out and step up to adopt, the orphan crisis would be eliminated!

In this world it's too easy to be consumed with things that don't matter....We are bombarded by technology and gadgets that are suppose to make life easy.......In reality it sucks us away from life and all that it holds.....It tears us away from the hurt and the broken hearted....We often turn our hearts inward and sport those ROSE COLORED GLASSES............And we either believe All is well, or Why bother? It would never make a difference any way.....

What if we immediately answered God as if He were the next text or the next post on FB?

What if we felt threatened by our freedom being taken away every day?

What if we served with that kind of passion everyday?

Man Who Builds the Bridge or God Who Parts The Seas

There will always be battles in this broken world......Always be fears to overcome........

When the rivers are raging in your soul and you see nothing but the water fall ahead of you........

And the man made bridge may not always be the answer............

Take heart and grip tight to your faith for He has said:

When you pass through the waters, 
    I will be with you; 
and when you pass through the rivers,
    they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire, 
    you will not be burned;
    the flames will not set you ablaze. Isaiah 43:2
God does not build the bridge but, if He so chooses He just may part the seas for you......And then again it may be that you have to pass through the raging rivers.......Either way it's all about TRUSTING HIM to carry you through every battle, every struggle.....It's not man who builds the bridge that we should put our trust in...for if we took the bridge every time we see danger, we may miss the blessings that come from the Living water......
It's God who parts the seas......His son who walks on water.....Trust in Him.....Take His hand......Because the easy way out will never shape you, strengthen you......the easy way out means not loving, living and sharing your life.......It means you will never be able to trust that He can deliver you through raging rivers......
If there were never a battle....You would never see VICTORY.

Homemade Almond Butter

The older I get the more I am concerned about what goes into our mouths....I've always cooked from scratch, but have also taken short cuts and used canned foods, like the creamed soups that had way too much junk in them and processed foods that shouldn't even be labeled food!

I wanted to get back to real food.....I wanted my family and I to eat food that our bodies recognize and can use instead of storing it away as fat because our bodies have no idea what to do with it! Plus omitting the chemicals and things I am unable to pronounce just made sense to me!

I also notice when my kids eat junk their behavior gives them away every time! There is something to be said for keeping food whole... I've been a witness to major meltdowns because of what they have taken in. I have also seen digestive problems decrease as we eliminate the junk!

So I have been on this whole food kick for a couple of years. Now I must be honest and tell you I just didn't quit cold turkey and I do eat some junk from time to time but no where near what I use to! What a difference it has made! I feel better...more energy....well as much as I can feel being pregnant..baby seems to be sucking some of that energy up from time to time, but all in all I really feel good!

 I wanted to share with you my Almond Butter recipe...Have you ever looked at the label of a p-nut butter jar? Yikes! Very scary! And I love p-nut butter! I also knew I needed a natural alternative.....Now this is not as creamy as the store bought but I don't mind......There is one thing I have learned over the years of eating and that is what your body eats your body craves! If you eat healthy food you will crave healthy food...It's as simple as that!

2 Cups Almonds
1/4 Cup Real Maple syrup
Sprinkle of sea salt
1/4 cup Raw honey
2 Tbl. of coconut oil

Take your two cups almonds mix them up with your maple syrup. Pour them on to your baking sheet, sprinkle them with sea salt and roast for about 20 minutes making sure to toss them at least once. Take them out and let them cool for ten minutes before you put them into your food processor.

Put them in your food processor and add your coconut oil and raw honey. Blend until creamy......Mmmmmm

You will need to store this in the fridge. I thought about canning it and researched it. Some say because of the consistency you will not be guaranteed a perfect seal...So I just decided that you can store nuts very easily and I will just make it as I need it.

If you don't like the taste of coconut you can use the expeller Pressed coconut oil and it won't have the taste. Or you can use another natural oil. You can also omit the maple syrup and add an extra teaspoon of raw honey. Just experiment with it until you get the right flavor your looking for.

Hope And Peace

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, oh God. Psalm 42:1

Reading Psalm 42 this morning..........

In this lost world when hope seems to slip through the cracks. When the enemy crowds in and tries to suffocate all that is good for the sake of equality and acceptance...... I can't help but feel scared.

 And it comes at a high price. When we sacrifice what is truly good in God's eyes. When we walk away from all that He holds sacred and precious for fear of confrontation or persecution..... I feel his heart ache. I draw closer and long for a better place. I long for Him to hear our cry and I beg for Him to make me feel safe. And  in His very word I find peace, hope and life.......This is not my resting place, this is not my home.


And it is written in red  Matthew 24:6
And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come topass, but the end is not yet.

Homemade Vanilla

Isn't this Beautiful?

In order to make this amber goodness I have to make an awkward stop at the liquor store.....But you really can tell the difference in your baking and cooking when you make your own!

I found this gallon size Ball jar at Target and thought it would be perfect for my Homemade Vanilla!

All you need is two 1/2 gallon bottles of Vodka and about 65 to 70 Vanilla beans. split your beans in half and place them in your jar. Pour the vodka in.....Let brew in jar for about 6 months in a dark, cool place. Put in smaller decorative jars and give away as gifts or keep them for yourself and stock your shelves!

I keep sniffing my fingers cause they smell like vanilla! Mmmmmmm

Little in Size, Big in Heart

When you think your too small to make a difference in this world.......think again. Even the smallest of gestures can make those with huge circumstances feel stable.

I love her willingness to help at such a young age. To her, body size doesn't matter.... She already seems to know it's the size of your heart that matters........

Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galations 6:2

Just A Cup Of Sugar Away

The travel seemed easy...The days seemed short and the time clock, not once did it stop ticking....... I took lots of pictures and a long the way I will share them with you. But for now I want to leave you with this one photograph....This is what I prayed for...And if you could of seen her eyes sparkle with tears when I walked through the door it would of warmed your heart......

Life is how you choose to live it. Time is how you choose to spend it. And memories are always in the making if your willing to move and be a part of someone's life. This dear woman has been a part of my life for almost 42 years now.......And yes I have the memories because she took the time.

Distance can be a form of torture at times.....Like my sister said a couple of days ago "sometimes I wish you were just a cup of sugar away."

Good thing the heart has lots of rooms to store up those beautiful memories......It seems to soak up love like a sponge if you let it.

My heart is full........

He's Got This!

I look into the faces of people and I wonder about their story and the road they have traveled to get to where they are right now....... I never use to take the time to look into the eyes of strangers and consider what their story might be. I was quick to judge and lay the blame like a heavy blanket of burden added to their already troubled life.

 The road can be long and travel can be hard.....No one ever said this life would be easy. As I walk this path, the one that God has set before me, I ask Him to join me....to guide me because no matter how strong others think I might be, it's not my strength they see. He holds me up when this soul of mine feels weak.

And when I forget about stopping and refueling I am quickly reminded that I can not run on fumes alone.....He talks about a thirst that can not be quenched by anything or anyone in this world.....I can bare witness to the dry deserts of this life.....I've thirsted and tried the world's well and came up dry every time.

And it amazes me how rejuvinated I feel when I stop to take a drink from the well of life, the only one with Living water.

I'm always discovering something new when I open his word....Even the verses I've read before...I read them again and they quickly breathe and come to life and show me what I may have missed. What I wasn't willing to see or maybe what I wasn't ready to see.......

As I travel with my family this week I ask for your kindness and if it so moves you, could you pray for our safety? I have asked God to guide us every step of the way. And as I love on family and friends, I ask Him to give me the grace in the the things I may not be able to see  in the eyes of those around me.......To remove the heavy blanket of judgement and show them the comfort of mercy.......

My prayer is that in the short 10 days I will be up home I will make moments that will be cherished for a life time....Ones that I can tie up in beautiful ribbons and enjoy  for years to come. Are my expectations high? I don't think so....I think moments are what you make of them. Whether they turn out the way you expect them to or not...It's all in how you choose to handle them that matters. So if the moments don't turn out the way I would of liked....It really doesn't matter...It's all on how I choose to handle the ending.

 My heart is full and my soul is excited...my camera is ready and no matter how bumpy, how many rest stops, or how many pot holes...I know He's got this......He's got it all planned out and He is ready to guide us every step of the way....

Father I am yours!