Good morning world! Here we are days after Thanksgiving and the Christmas season is upon us. I am determined to enjoy my time with my family and friends instead of getting caught up in the rush.
Although I do love going into a Christmas store or even the Christmas section of Walmart (not my most favorite store, that is for another post), to see what is new or what is pretty or just to get that Christmas feeling! And people watch! Love people watching during this time of year.
Our list of things to do during this time of year includes going to Springfield to see the Christmas lights with the Griswold's. Then another time, I print up Polar train tickets for the us to go see the lights here, complete in jammies, with pop corn and hot chocolate. Although the boys are getting older, not sure how this is going to go over this year.
This week we will be heading out to get our Christmas tree! Then all the decorations will come out. I have a collection of snowmen, santas, angels, and such. Each goes into a different room or part of the room. I am thinking of decorating each room this year! Look out!
I think I am in the Christmas spirit this year. Some years, not so much. This year, yes! Homemade eggnog, fudge, Christmas cookies and homemade presents!
Praying your holiday season is wonderful!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and action,
Elizabeth
Monday, November 30, 2015
Saturday, November 28, 2015
Consumerism and Christmas!
Good morning world. Did you do the "black Friday" shopping? I did not. I have not been out on a black Friday in a lot of years. Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday, what do they have in common? Consumerism, promoting shopping, spending money for Christmas.
I remember as a teen the first time I heard that Christmas had turned commercial and into spending. As a kid, I also remember my Dad getting onto my Mom about her spending at Christmas time. Dad would set a budget of spending. Mom would ignore it. She wanted us to have a lot of things as she and Dad grew up in an orphanage and did not get much for Christmas.
When the boys were very little, we did not have much money that year for Christmas. We took $20.00 to the 88 cents isle in Walmart and shopped for them. We bought Christmas candy for their stockings. It was the best Christmas!
That was about 13 or 14 years ago. The boys are wanting guns and bows for hunting, camo gear, and such now. Although one of them has asked for a radio control truck.
As time goes on, I want more and more an old fashioned Christmas! We do go out and cut down our own cedar tree. Most years I decorate with cedar branches and pine cones. Homemade eggnog. Each year the boys decorate Christmas cookies. Watching Christmas movies and reading the birth of Christ!
But what to do about presents? For almost everyone else, I do homemade, lotion bars, scrubs, and such. But the boys? I am going to have to think on this one.
How do you celebrate Christmas? I will be thinking about mine these next few days.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I remember as a teen the first time I heard that Christmas had turned commercial and into spending. As a kid, I also remember my Dad getting onto my Mom about her spending at Christmas time. Dad would set a budget of spending. Mom would ignore it. She wanted us to have a lot of things as she and Dad grew up in an orphanage and did not get much for Christmas.
When the boys were very little, we did not have much money that year for Christmas. We took $20.00 to the 88 cents isle in Walmart and shopped for them. We bought Christmas candy for their stockings. It was the best Christmas!
That was about 13 or 14 years ago. The boys are wanting guns and bows for hunting, camo gear, and such now. Although one of them has asked for a radio control truck.
As time goes on, I want more and more an old fashioned Christmas! We do go out and cut down our own cedar tree. Most years I decorate with cedar branches and pine cones. Homemade eggnog. Each year the boys decorate Christmas cookies. Watching Christmas movies and reading the birth of Christ!
But what to do about presents? For almost everyone else, I do homemade, lotion bars, scrubs, and such. But the boys? I am going to have to think on this one.
How do you celebrate Christmas? I will be thinking about mine these next few days.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Good morning world! Happy Thanksgiving to you all!! Praying anyone who might read this have a wonderfully blessed day!
Today is about more than the turkey, stuffing, gravy, and pumpkin pie, it is about family and friends. Spending time with loved ones. Remembering why we celebrate Thanksgiving in the first place, the Pilgrims and Indians.
I have not put one up in a few years, but I think I will be putting up a "Thankful Tree". When someone thinks of something they are thankful for, it is written on a leaf and attached to the "tree" on the wall.
I have been up since 5:30 this morning. Did some last minute cleaning. Put the turkey in the oven. I love the smell of turkey roasting on Thanksgiving day. Most of the rest of the fixings I prepared yesterday. Some will need something added to the top and a quick trip to the oven to heat.
I still have to get my table set. But I also have not made the name tags, nor the first Christmas gift either. Slacking? Possibly. I had better get on the ball!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Today is about more than the turkey, stuffing, gravy, and pumpkin pie, it is about family and friends. Spending time with loved ones. Remembering why we celebrate Thanksgiving in the first place, the Pilgrims and Indians.
I have not put one up in a few years, but I think I will be putting up a "Thankful Tree". When someone thinks of something they are thankful for, it is written on a leaf and attached to the "tree" on the wall.
I have been up since 5:30 this morning. Did some last minute cleaning. Put the turkey in the oven. I love the smell of turkey roasting on Thanksgiving day. Most of the rest of the fixings I prepared yesterday. Some will need something added to the top and a quick trip to the oven to heat.
I still have to get my table set. But I also have not made the name tags, nor the first Christmas gift either. Slacking? Possibly. I had better get on the ball!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Who am I in Christ Jesus?
Good morning world! Baking day today along with getting the sides ready so tomorrow will be relative stress free. That's the plan anyway. The home blessing is almost done. My main plan for today and tomorrow is to "just breathe".
I have been reading a lot lately, and was even challenged a couple of months ago, about thinking and learning more about who I am not what I am. Meaning I am a wife, mother, homeschooling mom, friend, sister, daughter, artist, and so much more.
What about who I am? I am a child of God, daughter of the most High, redeemed by His blood! I am barely chipping away at the tip of the iceberg as to what this truly means. I had lost my way for a period of time. I do not mean I had strayed away from God. I mean, I had forgotten who had created me and just how much He loves me.
My self esteem had dropped terribly. I had stopped painting in my studio. My home was passable, but not kept to the standards I usually set for myself. I gained the weight I had lost and kept off for over a year. My relationship with my husband and boys have suffered.
The why is not really important at this time. Remembering I am HIS and just how much HE loves me is. It is the beginning of the road less traveled that will take me back to me.
I am loved! I am beautiful! I am blessed! I am grateful! I am joyful! I am peaceful! I am lovable! I am hospitable! I am.
5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:5
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I have been reading a lot lately, and was even challenged a couple of months ago, about thinking and learning more about who I am not what I am. Meaning I am a wife, mother, homeschooling mom, friend, sister, daughter, artist, and so much more.
What about who I am? I am a child of God, daughter of the most High, redeemed by His blood! I am barely chipping away at the tip of the iceberg as to what this truly means. I had lost my way for a period of time. I do not mean I had strayed away from God. I mean, I had forgotten who had created me and just how much He loves me.
My self esteem had dropped terribly. I had stopped painting in my studio. My home was passable, but not kept to the standards I usually set for myself. I gained the weight I had lost and kept off for over a year. My relationship with my husband and boys have suffered.
The why is not really important at this time. Remembering I am HIS and just how much HE loves me is. It is the beginning of the road less traveled that will take me back to me.
I am loved! I am beautiful! I am blessed! I am grateful! I am joyful! I am peaceful! I am lovable! I am hospitable! I am.
5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:5
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
My and God's Today!
Good morning world. We got the clothes finished and back into the shop yesterday!!! Yeah! So excited about this, can you tell? I am sure we missed some clothes as I have not seen but one of my Christmas and none of my fall tops. That is okay, I have some room in my drawers and closet!
Today the boys and I are going to clean the house and get the computer room done. I made a list last night and told them if they helped me with more energy than they had with the clothes, when we get done, they can play the PS3. That is an activity which is on an "earn the right to play" basis. Meaning it is not turned on daily.
While they are playing, I will be out in the studio getting some much needed painting done. What a great day planned! And if the day does not go as planned, I will be fine with that too.
Tomorrow, I will start baking and cooking for Thursday. I am going to try to get the big dinner ready to sit down by 1 at lest. Usually, that does not happen. We shall see.
On a different note, still sticking to my eating plan. Yesterday morning I wanted the boy's breakfast so badly! I made oatmeal for them with bananas and brown sugar. YUM! Instead, I had a couple of eggs fried in coconut oil. That was yum too!
Remember to enjoy your time, whether it is getting ready for company or getting ready to be company. Whether you are scrubbing toilets or baking pies or packing. Enjoy what you are doing.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Today the boys and I are going to clean the house and get the computer room done. I made a list last night and told them if they helped me with more energy than they had with the clothes, when we get done, they can play the PS3. That is an activity which is on an "earn the right to play" basis. Meaning it is not turned on daily.
While they are playing, I will be out in the studio getting some much needed painting done. What a great day planned! And if the day does not go as planned, I will be fine with that too.
Tomorrow, I will start baking and cooking for Thursday. I am going to try to get the big dinner ready to sit down by 1 at lest. Usually, that does not happen. We shall see.
On a different note, still sticking to my eating plan. Yesterday morning I wanted the boy's breakfast so badly! I made oatmeal for them with bananas and brown sugar. YUM! Instead, I had a couple of eggs fried in coconut oil. That was yum too!
Remember to enjoy your time, whether it is getting ready for company or getting ready to be company. Whether you are scrubbing toilets or baking pies or packing. Enjoy what you are doing.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Monday, November 23, 2015
Busy Day, Camping in the cold!
Good morning world! Okay, now it is cold. We went camping this past weekend, until Saturday night very late. Came home because I was extremely cold and had cut my hand. Patrick had a headache and I did not want it to get worse. David was sick with stomach stuff and a fever. So we went home in the middle of the night.
We are going to try it again sometime this winter.
So today I have to finish going through clothes, switching summer to winter clothes. And I am organizing the clothes better as I go. Each kid will have their own tote or two as well as Patrick. I am putting my clothes in totes by size. That way as I lose weight it will be easy to find the next size down.
Speaking of weight loss, I am still doing good. I have lost a couple of more pounds. I am very proud of myself.
After the clothes are finished and laundry is done, We are going to be working on the computer room. I might not get all the rooms done by Thursday, but the computer room will be. After Thanksgiving, the next week or so, we will go find a Christmas tree, cedar. It goes in the computer room in front of the window.
I have a busy next few days. However, I plan on enjoying each minute of each day!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
We are going to try it again sometime this winter.
So today I have to finish going through clothes, switching summer to winter clothes. And I am organizing the clothes better as I go. Each kid will have their own tote or two as well as Patrick. I am putting my clothes in totes by size. That way as I lose weight it will be easy to find the next size down.
Speaking of weight loss, I am still doing good. I have lost a couple of more pounds. I am very proud of myself.
After the clothes are finished and laundry is done, We are going to be working on the computer room. I might not get all the rooms done by Thursday, but the computer room will be. After Thanksgiving, the next week or so, we will go find a Christmas tree, cedar. It goes in the computer room in front of the window.
I have a busy next few days. However, I plan on enjoying each minute of each day!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
My typical morning and today!
Good morning world. Yes, I am supposed to be in the classroom by now. And am heading that way in a few minutes. I get up early pretty much every morning. Shower, if needed. Wipe down the bathroom, straighten up the kitchen if needed. Make coffee, turn on my computer, grab reading glasses, grab a cup of coffee, sit at my desk, read scriptures for the morning, look at Facebook and respond to a couple of people.
That is my usual morning. Between 6:30 and 7 am, I pour 2 cups of coffee. I drop one off in Tyler's room. Then I head upstairs to wake up the boys. Back downstairs, I take the 2nd cup of coffee in to Patrick and wake him up. Are they all spoiled? Yes, they are! I love them!
My day today? I still have the list I made last week that details things that need done in each room. I finished the mud room. Started the bathroom. I will finish it when the sink gets fixed, probably tomorrow. Today I will get the dining room finished and either the kitchen started or the computer room. Not sure which.
My goal is to get the majority of this done before Thanksgiving Day, next Thursday. Hmm. Wonder if I can get this done.
On a side note, I had a couple of down days this past couple of days due to just feeling off. Blood pressure issues, light chest issues.... all is good now. Thank you Jesus!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and action,
Elizabeth
That is my usual morning. Between 6:30 and 7 am, I pour 2 cups of coffee. I drop one off in Tyler's room. Then I head upstairs to wake up the boys. Back downstairs, I take the 2nd cup of coffee in to Patrick and wake him up. Are they all spoiled? Yes, they are! I love them!
My day today? I still have the list I made last week that details things that need done in each room. I finished the mud room. Started the bathroom. I will finish it when the sink gets fixed, probably tomorrow. Today I will get the dining room finished and either the kitchen started or the computer room. Not sure which.
My goal is to get the majority of this done before Thanksgiving Day, next Thursday. Hmm. Wonder if I can get this done.
On a side note, I had a couple of down days this past couple of days due to just feeling off. Blood pressure issues, light chest issues.... all is good now. Thank you Jesus!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and action,
Elizabeth
Monday, November 16, 2015
Starting to get better!
Good morning world. Another day of rest yesterday and putting creams on my eyes every couple of hours did wonders. My eyes are still swollen some, the rash is still here (just not so bad), and they still itch and hurt some. But they are still better! I will keep doing what I did yesterday, with the cream that is.
My day has already started with coffee made, laundry started, dressed, and getting my day planned out. I want to attack another room this afternoon after school. I am thinking since I started with the mud room, I would proceed into the dining room since that is where you go next when you come into my house.
Maybe I will get to go into my studio this afternoon late if I can get this done. I might also get some extra canning done. Wait, where did the pressure canner go? Oh, I think I had one of the boys put it on a shelve in the shop. I have some white beans and ham. I thought I would can those together. Yum!
I might wait until tomorrow to can. I am really wanting to spend time in my studio. Have some plans for Christmas presents I would like to get painted. Are you ready for the holidays? I am getting there.
Have some fun today all!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
My day has already started with coffee made, laundry started, dressed, and getting my day planned out. I want to attack another room this afternoon after school. I am thinking since I started with the mud room, I would proceed into the dining room since that is where you go next when you come into my house.
Maybe I will get to go into my studio this afternoon late if I can get this done. I might also get some extra canning done. Wait, where did the pressure canner go? Oh, I think I had one of the boys put it on a shelve in the shop. I have some white beans and ham. I thought I would can those together. Yum!
I might wait until tomorrow to can. I am really wanting to spend time in my studio. Have some plans for Christmas presents I would like to get painted. Are you ready for the holidays? I am getting there.
Have some fun today all!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Allergies and my eyes
Good morning world. Day 2 of yucky allergies! I get 2 different ways allergies get me. First, is the usual respiratory type. You know, the coughing, sneezing like symptoms. Second, is skin related, usually eczema.
This year so far it seems to be in the second form. Almost all fall I have had eczema on my scalp. Yesterday I woke up to my eyes so swollen I had a hard time seeing, along with a massive headache. Benedryl was my friend yesterday, and I am thinking it might be my friend today.
This will be short and sweet today as my eyes are starting to really hurt. Will not be going anywhere today either. I will have Bible study here with the boys.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
This year so far it seems to be in the second form. Almost all fall I have had eczema on my scalp. Yesterday I woke up to my eyes so swollen I had a hard time seeing, along with a massive headache. Benedryl was my friend yesterday, and I am thinking it might be my friend today.
This will be short and sweet today as my eyes are starting to really hurt. Will not be going anywhere today either. I will have Bible study here with the boys.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Friday, November 13, 2015
Weight Loss!
Good morning world! Woke up to freezing weather, with frost on the ground. Know what that means? Snow to come soon! I cannot wait!
Wednesday was Veterans Day, I wrote about my Dad. Yesterday I just plum forgot to say anything. So here goes, I have lost 8 pounds as of Wednesday sticking to the eating plan. That is in one week. Hopefully I will lose as much for the second week. Very excited!
The last time I was on this eating plan, I lost a total of 65 pounds in less than a year. Hopefully I can do the same if not better! This time I want to turn it into more of a lifestyle! I think if I go through all of the stages, it will be easier to do.
Today is another day of heavy duty cleaning. Yesterday I made a detailed list for each room what is needed to be done. I barely made a dent in that list. I had a massive headache I was working through. Napping as I could to try to get rid of it.
It is gone this morning. So I am good to go.
My day is off and running!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday was Veterans Day, I wrote about my Dad. Yesterday I just plum forgot to say anything. So here goes, I have lost 8 pounds as of Wednesday sticking to the eating plan. That is in one week. Hopefully I will lose as much for the second week. Very excited!
The last time I was on this eating plan, I lost a total of 65 pounds in less than a year. Hopefully I can do the same if not better! This time I want to turn it into more of a lifestyle! I think if I go through all of the stages, it will be easier to do.
Today is another day of heavy duty cleaning. Yesterday I made a detailed list for each room what is needed to be done. I barely made a dent in that list. I had a massive headache I was working through. Napping as I could to try to get rid of it.
It is gone this morning. So I am good to go.
My day is off and running!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, November 12, 2015
My Today!
Good morning world. Been up for a while. Thinking about all I am wanting to get done today. Last night's winds probably have produced enough down limbs and things tossed to keep the boys busy this afternoon.
My list for today is: Fold laundry from yesterday, do the one load of daily laundry, bake bread and biscuits for the week (maybe cookies), finish cleaning out behind the bar, attack another kitchen cabinet, and hopefully have time to paint.
What's for supper? Putting a pork roast in the crock pot this morning, I think. Need to make the menu out for the next week also.
I have already got the list made out for Thanksgiving dinner. Just need to make a couple of phone calls to confirm who is coming. I like to know in advanced as I not only make place cards for the table, but also I make the first Christmas present for the season. I give those out as people leave my house. The Christmas season seems to start as Thanksgiving Day is ending.
Off to get another cup of coffee, then to check emails and get my day started with the family!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
My list for today is: Fold laundry from yesterday, do the one load of daily laundry, bake bread and biscuits for the week (maybe cookies), finish cleaning out behind the bar, attack another kitchen cabinet, and hopefully have time to paint.
What's for supper? Putting a pork roast in the crock pot this morning, I think. Need to make the menu out for the next week also.
I have already got the list made out for Thanksgiving dinner. Just need to make a couple of phone calls to confirm who is coming. I like to know in advanced as I not only make place cards for the table, but also I make the first Christmas present for the season. I give those out as people leave my house. The Christmas season seems to start as Thanksgiving Day is ending.
Off to get another cup of coffee, then to check emails and get my day started with the family!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Honoring my Dad.
Good morning world. Happy Veterans Day! Blessings and Gratitude for all those who serve, past and present!
My Dad, Billy Joe McKinney served in the Air Force as an air traffic controller. He was a 20 year man. So yes, I grew up as an Air Force Brat, and am very proud of that! Every 2 to 3 years it was time to move. Spent 4 years in Germany as a teen. Started school when we lived in the Philippians as a little kid.
I am so very proud of my Dad! I miss him daily too as he passed away in May of 2002.
He was born in Texas. Lost his Dad at a very early age. His mother could not take care of him and his 3 brothers and 1 sister so she placed all but the baby (Uncle Johnny) in an orphanage in Waco, Texas, the Methodist Home.
I believe he was about 3 or 4 at that time and saw his mother only once when he was 8. I grew up thinking my grandmother was dead. I found a letter when I was about 12 or 13 and found out she was actually alive but was told to never talk to Dad about her. As far as he was concerned, she was dead to him.
When he was 17 he joined the Air Force. When he was 18, he went back for my mother, who also lived at the Methodist Home. She ran away with him to Monterey, Mexico to get married. She was 16. They lived in San Antonio where I was born a year later.
I learned so much from my Dad. He use to tell me that I could do what ever I wanted to do as long as I was willing to accept the consequences whether they be good or bad. That took me a while before I truly understood that one. He taught me honor, respect, work ethics, love, family values and so much more.
I love and honor you Dad! Miss you more each day!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
My Dad, Billy Joe McKinney served in the Air Force as an air traffic controller. He was a 20 year man. So yes, I grew up as an Air Force Brat, and am very proud of that! Every 2 to 3 years it was time to move. Spent 4 years in Germany as a teen. Started school when we lived in the Philippians as a little kid.
I am so very proud of my Dad! I miss him daily too as he passed away in May of 2002.
He was born in Texas. Lost his Dad at a very early age. His mother could not take care of him and his 3 brothers and 1 sister so she placed all but the baby (Uncle Johnny) in an orphanage in Waco, Texas, the Methodist Home.
I believe he was about 3 or 4 at that time and saw his mother only once when he was 8. I grew up thinking my grandmother was dead. I found a letter when I was about 12 or 13 and found out she was actually alive but was told to never talk to Dad about her. As far as he was concerned, she was dead to him.
When he was 17 he joined the Air Force. When he was 18, he went back for my mother, who also lived at the Methodist Home. She ran away with him to Monterey, Mexico to get married. She was 16. They lived in San Antonio where I was born a year later.
I learned so much from my Dad. He use to tell me that I could do what ever I wanted to do as long as I was willing to accept the consequences whether they be good or bad. That took me a while before I truly understood that one. He taught me honor, respect, work ethics, love, family values and so much more.
I love and honor you Dad! Miss you more each day!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Monday, November 9, 2015
Peaceful morning!
Good morning world. Sitting here listening and looking at the sights and sounds of the morning before everyone is up. Peaceful for now.
My dog, Little Man, barking outside along with Flex, the outside guard dog. The sunshine streaming through my computer room window (east facing window). Our American flag gently swaying in the breeze.
The sound of the momma cat eating her breakfast after feeding her babies, four kittens. One of them was born without eyes. She will be an inside cat.
The smell of coffee.
As it turns 7 am, the radio turns on to news in the kitchen. The John Deere clock in the dining room sounds off with a certain tractor sound. It is time to get the boys up and at it. Chores for them, getting dressed for me.
Because it is so cold outside, I will be making oatmeal for them. It is not their most favorite breakfast, but I add good stuff to it.
School at 8 am. Jobs for them in the afternoons. Time in my studio for me. Maybe today we will go out to the conservation for nature things to help decorate for this month and Thanksgiving. Maybe we will go one day later this week.
Truly blessed! Thank you Jesus!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
My dog, Little Man, barking outside along with Flex, the outside guard dog. The sunshine streaming through my computer room window (east facing window). Our American flag gently swaying in the breeze.
The sound of the momma cat eating her breakfast after feeding her babies, four kittens. One of them was born without eyes. She will be an inside cat.
The smell of coffee.
As it turns 7 am, the radio turns on to news in the kitchen. The John Deere clock in the dining room sounds off with a certain tractor sound. It is time to get the boys up and at it. Chores for them, getting dressed for me.
Because it is so cold outside, I will be making oatmeal for them. It is not their most favorite breakfast, but I add good stuff to it.
School at 8 am. Jobs for them in the afternoons. Time in my studio for me. Maybe today we will go out to the conservation for nature things to help decorate for this month and Thanksgiving. Maybe we will go one day later this week.
Truly blessed! Thank you Jesus!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Sunday, November 8, 2015
What are you thinking?
Good morning world. Happy Sunday! Wanted to report that I have been doing really great on my eating plan. Officially I think I started on this past Wednesday, although I sort of started it on Tuesday.
The first 2 weeks of a low carb, high protein diet the weight loss is pretty high. For that I am really grateful as it is a push to stay on track. I will be integrating an eating plan called Trim Healthy Mama Plan soon.
On Wednesday I will post the amount of weight I have lost as that will be week one.
Today I will be eating, breakfast: scrambled eggs with onions & mushrooms, and bacon: lunch hamburger pattie with salad, supper: not sure as of yet. Depends on how long we stay at home church this evening. We are celebrating a birthday today there.
One of the things that is helping me this time on staying on track is when I think about the ice cream in the freezer or the birthday cake left over from Patrick's birthday, and the thought that no one will know if I cheat. I then think I will know. Not only that but so will everyone else when I am not losing weight.
I've been thinking on the "whatever" Bible verse. I have said before that my mind can be a dangerous place for me. Especially when I start thinking bad things about me. Hard to stick to anything good when I am thinking and feeling I do not deserve the good benefits. But the Bible tells me:
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
The first 2 weeks of a low carb, high protein diet the weight loss is pretty high. For that I am really grateful as it is a push to stay on track. I will be integrating an eating plan called Trim Healthy Mama Plan soon.
On Wednesday I will post the amount of weight I have lost as that will be week one.
Today I will be eating, breakfast: scrambled eggs with onions & mushrooms, and bacon: lunch hamburger pattie with salad, supper: not sure as of yet. Depends on how long we stay at home church this evening. We are celebrating a birthday today there.
One of the things that is helping me this time on staying on track is when I think about the ice cream in the freezer or the birthday cake left over from Patrick's birthday, and the thought that no one will know if I cheat. I then think I will know. Not only that but so will everyone else when I am not losing weight.
I've been thinking on the "whatever" Bible verse. I have said before that my mind can be a dangerous place for me. Especially when I start thinking bad things about me. Hard to stick to anything good when I am thinking and feeling I do not deserve the good benefits. But the Bible tells me:
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Saturday, November 7, 2015
My Saturday
Good morning world! Last night's company was a no show. I feel badly for Tyler. In my mind, this is the second time she did not show. Not sure what happened. Have not talked to him as of yet.
Today, as it seems it is going to be a really nice day, I plan on spending it in my studio. I'm going to get stuff out of there that does not belong. Then I am going to start painting again. And daily as I use to. I miss painting. It was my stress reliever.
I also am wanting to make part of my studio my prayer closet. For lack of an actual closet, this is the best I can do. This will definitely be a challenge as my studio is not very big. I also have to clean out the space in front of the ventless heater.
I am actually excited about my day!
This will be short today so I can get another cup of coffee and head out there.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Today, as it seems it is going to be a really nice day, I plan on spending it in my studio. I'm going to get stuff out of there that does not belong. Then I am going to start painting again. And daily as I use to. I miss painting. It was my stress reliever.
I also am wanting to make part of my studio my prayer closet. For lack of an actual closet, this is the best I can do. This will definitely be a challenge as my studio is not very big. I also have to clean out the space in front of the ventless heater.
I am actually excited about my day!
This will be short today so I can get another cup of coffee and head out there.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, November 5, 2015
God loves "us", but what about me?
Good morning world. Day 2 of the starting over eating plan... complete with make up and fixed hair to help me feel better about myself.
Today's meals for me, breakfast: scrambled eggs and coffee, lunch: salad with chicken breast cut up in it, supper: a chicken burrito with low carb tortillas.
Been thinking more and more of how much God loves us, rather in my mind, me. It is easy for me to know God loves "us". Harder for me to know God loves "me".
Let me clarify this. I know in my head God loves me. Knowing it in my heart is another matter. I have let circumstances and life in general interfere.
My plan for getting this knowledge into my heart once more? The bible says we are renewed by the reading of the word, parapharsed I'm sure. But daily Bible study is my plan. So in addition to back on the eating plan and sticking to it, fixing myself up with hair and make up to feel better about me, I will be starting a daily Bible study on God's love for me. I will keep you posted.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Today's meals for me, breakfast: scrambled eggs and coffee, lunch: salad with chicken breast cut up in it, supper: a chicken burrito with low carb tortillas.
Been thinking more and more of how much God loves us, rather in my mind, me. It is easy for me to know God loves "us". Harder for me to know God loves "me".
Let me clarify this. I know in my head God loves me. Knowing it in my heart is another matter. I have let circumstances and life in general interfere.
My plan for getting this knowledge into my heart once more? The bible says we are renewed by the reading of the word, parapharsed I'm sure. But daily Bible study is my plan. So in addition to back on the eating plan and sticking to it, fixing myself up with hair and make up to feel better about me, I will be starting a daily Bible study on God's love for me. I will keep you posted.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Starting again?
Good morning world! Been thinking again. I know, have to stop doing that! A couple of weeks ago, I had written about my husband's feelings about my weight. I have since unpublished that post. It is not very edifying of my husband.
So I am wondering how much of what I am feeling about myself am I projecting onto my husband? I do not like my weight and how it makes me feel and look. I know what to do about it.. just a matter of doing it. What about now?
Today's menu for me is breakfast: 2 eggs fried over easy, lunch: salad with chicken breast, supper: pork steak with green beans, string cheese and not sure what else for a snack. Lots of water to drink, after one more cup of coffee!
My mind is the place the devil and my own carnal man gets to me. I need to renew it daily through the word of God! I can tell when I have not been doing that, not on a daily basis. And for me it can take just one day of not reading God's word for me to get in a not so good way.
"This is what the Lord says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s." 2 Chronicles 20:15
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
So I am wondering how much of what I am feeling about myself am I projecting onto my husband? I do not like my weight and how it makes me feel and look. I know what to do about it.. just a matter of doing it. What about now?
Today's menu for me is breakfast: 2 eggs fried over easy, lunch: salad with chicken breast, supper: pork steak with green beans, string cheese and not sure what else for a snack. Lots of water to drink, after one more cup of coffee!
My mind is the place the devil and my own carnal man gets to me. I need to renew it daily through the word of God! I can tell when I have not been doing that, not on a daily basis. And for me it can take just one day of not reading God's word for me to get in a not so good way.
"This is what the Lord says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s." 2 Chronicles 20:15
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Monday, November 2, 2015
Seasons of Life
Good morning world. Today is another birthday, my dear husband Patrick. P.J. already has the birthday dinner planned. Good thing I left the birthday sign up in the dining room. The streamers came down, the sign did not.
I have been thinking a lot lately about the seasons of life. Probably started when Tommy turned 18 last week. His turning 18 starts a new season in our family. He is still in school, has had a job and wants to get another one. That is another topic.
However, 18 is just a number. It does not mean he has over night become a mature grown man ready to concur the world. Although he thinks it does. He is going daily into a Godly man and I am so proud.
My problems with changing seasons of life is they do not need me as they did when they were little. There is so much they can do for themselves and yet I can think of so much more we want them to learn before they are out on their own.
When the seasons in nature change, I embrace the change. I love each season as it starts for various reasons. I am praying I can to the same with the changing of the seasons of life.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I have been thinking a lot lately about the seasons of life. Probably started when Tommy turned 18 last week. His turning 18 starts a new season in our family. He is still in school, has had a job and wants to get another one. That is another topic.
However, 18 is just a number. It does not mean he has over night become a mature grown man ready to concur the world. Although he thinks it does. He is going daily into a Godly man and I am so proud.
My problems with changing seasons of life is they do not need me as they did when they were little. There is so much they can do for themselves and yet I can think of so much more we want them to learn before they are out on their own.
When the seasons in nature change, I embrace the change. I love each season as it starts for various reasons. I am praying I can to the same with the changing of the seasons of life.
3 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 NIV
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 NIV
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
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