Good morning world. I have not written in a while. My life has been busier than it has been in a while. Four extra kids tend to do this to a life. Thanksgiving and Christmas has come and gone. New Years Eve is tomorrow. Maybe because it is the end of the year, I keep thinking about the old fashioned lifestyle I have craved in the past.
I googled "old fashioned lifestyle". What popped up was mostly lists of things to incorporate into one's life to be more "old fashioned". I was amazed at the lists. Use technology less, cook from scratch, bake bread, spend time with the family, eat dinners at the dining room table, read more, less television, watch black and white television, garden, can and put away your own food, use natural cleaners, hang clothes out to dry, etc.
A lot of this list I already have going on in my life. I have not made bread in a while. However, I do cook almost completely from scratch. I have not been using the clothes line because it is winter and I use the heat from the dryer to help heat that part of the house as well as add some moisture to the air. I love to read. However, I will confess I have not been reading as much as I want. We usually garden and I can what we grow. However, this summer with getting use to extra kids our garden turned into a forest.
I want to get back to my basics and my old fashioned lifestyle. God willing, I will.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Friday, December 30, 2016
Monday, November 28, 2016
Getting caught up!!
Good morning world. So much has happened in the past few days. The first part of last week was dedicated to getting ready for Thanksgiving on Thursday, finish cleaning, baking, cooking.
Thanksgiving was really great! I did get a little stressed because the buffet style did not work out as planned. Counters are not quite long enough. However, it all worked out. We had a total of 32 people by the end of the day. Anyone over the age of 19 sat at the table, bar, or another table in the computer room. The 2 little ones under the age of 5 sat at a little table from the girls room. The rest were either outside or in the living room. I loved it!
I also gave the first Christmas gift of the season, Snowman Soup.
Friday was the beginning of the post Thanksgiving clean up. Also, a wedding rehearsal dinner for my 2 girls as they were the flower girls of my best friend's eldest daughter's wedding.
Saturday was the most beautiful wedding I have been to in a long time. Lots of fun had by all!
Yesterday, church in the morning. Then the kids had play rehearsal in the afternoon for a Christmas play at church. Last night after dinner, we played monopoly. I stopped early on and gave my spot to one of the girls so I am not sure who one. I fell asleep.
In all the crazy busy, I have found time to pray, read some scriptures, and talk to Jesus. If He was not a big part of my life, I might have gone a little nuts with all the activity and extra people.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thanksgiving was really great! I did get a little stressed because the buffet style did not work out as planned. Counters are not quite long enough. However, it all worked out. We had a total of 32 people by the end of the day. Anyone over the age of 19 sat at the table, bar, or another table in the computer room. The 2 little ones under the age of 5 sat at a little table from the girls room. The rest were either outside or in the living room. I loved it!
I also gave the first Christmas gift of the season, Snowman Soup.
Friday was the beginning of the post Thanksgiving clean up. Also, a wedding rehearsal dinner for my 2 girls as they were the flower girls of my best friend's eldest daughter's wedding.
Saturday was the most beautiful wedding I have been to in a long time. Lots of fun had by all!
Yesterday, church in the morning. Then the kids had play rehearsal in the afternoon for a Christmas play at church. Last night after dinner, we played monopoly. I stopped early on and gave my spot to one of the girls so I am not sure who one. I fell asleep.
In all the crazy busy, I have found time to pray, read some scriptures, and talk to Jesus. If He was not a big part of my life, I might have gone a little nuts with all the activity and extra people.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
God's peace in the crazy stuff!
Good morning world. This morning I am going over the last minute details of having Thanksgiving dinner here for my friends and family. I cannot wait! Well, actually, I can. I have too much to do in my mind for it to be here today.
I went to bed fairly early last night as I had the beginnings of a sinus headache and wanted it gone. I have been awake since 5:30 or so and spent an hour or so cleaning up my kids mess in the kitchen. After Thursday, I will be giving them a lesson in how to clean the kitchen. If you cannot see the counters, it is probably not clean.
Every room needs just a touch up of one thing or another. I also have a couple of more pies to bake as well as the rolls. Although, I have had second thoughts about doing that. I might just get some crescent rolls and call it good. I just remembered, I have to get the cornbread baked too. I guess I need to tweak my to do list.
What I want to show and teach my kids this year is that no matter what the circumstances and situation their life might be in, we love them, Jesus loves them, they are safe, and hopefully God's peace that surpasses all understanding is in their hearts!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I went to bed fairly early last night as I had the beginnings of a sinus headache and wanted it gone. I have been awake since 5:30 or so and spent an hour or so cleaning up my kids mess in the kitchen. After Thursday, I will be giving them a lesson in how to clean the kitchen. If you cannot see the counters, it is probably not clean.
Every room needs just a touch up of one thing or another. I also have a couple of more pies to bake as well as the rolls. Although, I have had second thoughts about doing that. I might just get some crescent rolls and call it good. I just remembered, I have to get the cornbread baked too. I guess I need to tweak my to do list.
What I want to show and teach my kids this year is that no matter what the circumstances and situation their life might be in, we love them, Jesus loves them, they are safe, and hopefully God's peace that surpasses all understanding is in their hearts!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, November 22, 2016
Jesus lives here too!
Good morning world. This morning I have been running around from room to room picking this up, putting away that. Getting my room picked up and back in order, finally. Of course that is my side of the room. His side will still have his hunting stuff out and about.
As things have happened around here the past few days, you know life. Kids fighting between themselves, "Mom, make her stop looking at me!" Yes, I hear that now. I just love having girls. I am smiling just thinking about what I am writing.
Back to some of my thoughts..... the only way I am not loosing it around here with all 7 kids and my dear husband, is through Jesus and His blood that He shed for me. I am learning to look at my kids, all 7 of my kids, as Jesus looks at me, with grace, mercy, and love. Not just as a Mom. Does that make sense?
I am not perfect by any means. And we have a regular family, well sort of. We have emotions, dirt, and all. HOWEVER, we have Jesus. Jesus lives here too!
As Thanksgiving Day approaches, I am more grateful than before!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
As things have happened around here the past few days, you know life. Kids fighting between themselves, "Mom, make her stop looking at me!" Yes, I hear that now. I just love having girls. I am smiling just thinking about what I am writing.
Back to some of my thoughts..... the only way I am not loosing it around here with all 7 kids and my dear husband, is through Jesus and His blood that He shed for me. I am learning to look at my kids, all 7 of my kids, as Jesus looks at me, with grace, mercy, and love. Not just as a Mom. Does that make sense?
I am not perfect by any means. And we have a regular family, well sort of. We have emotions, dirt, and all. HOWEVER, we have Jesus. Jesus lives here too!
As Thanksgiving Day approaches, I am more grateful than before!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, November 17, 2016
My relationship with Jesus
Good morning world. Been pondering a lot of things the past couple of days. One thing roaming around my head is my relationship with each child in my home. I have always been close to my 3 boys. Developing relationships with the news kids takes time. One of the kids have been here longer, so we have a relationship started and going.
The others are just starting to develop. Each child has their own personality and I have responded to each one different. Just having girls is different for me as when we fostered before, we just had boys. I am completely enjoying not being the only girl in the home!
As I said before, relationships take time. So how much time do I really spend with Jesus? The relationship I have with Him is and should be more important than any other relationship. This morning I did not spend time in the word. There I said it. I miss days and sometimes even weeks. But when I do my days go so much better.
The difference from this morning from other morning that took up more time was I made lunches for the kids who go to public school. Four lunches took a little time. That was my time to spend with the Lord. I thought I could do it all before I got everyone up. Did not happen.
I do not have a set thing I do every morning with God. Sometimes, I pray in reverent prayer. Sometimes, I just talk to Him. Sometimes, I sing. Just depends on ..... hmmm. I'm not sure if it is how I feel, or a leading of the Holy Spirit or what. Just depends.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
The others are just starting to develop. Each child has their own personality and I have responded to each one different. Just having girls is different for me as when we fostered before, we just had boys. I am completely enjoying not being the only girl in the home!
As I said before, relationships take time. So how much time do I really spend with Jesus? The relationship I have with Him is and should be more important than any other relationship. This morning I did not spend time in the word. There I said it. I miss days and sometimes even weeks. But when I do my days go so much better.
The difference from this morning from other morning that took up more time was I made lunches for the kids who go to public school. Four lunches took a little time. That was my time to spend with the Lord. I thought I could do it all before I got everyone up. Did not happen.
I do not have a set thing I do every morning with God. Sometimes, I pray in reverent prayer. Sometimes, I just talk to Him. Sometimes, I sing. Just depends on ..... hmmm. I'm not sure if it is how I feel, or a leading of the Holy Spirit or what. Just depends.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Change my morning or night routines?
Good morning world. I decided this morning I either need to get my evening routine a little better organized or get up at 5:30 instead of 6. Just not enough time in 30 minutes to get awake, coffee made and drank, dressed, spend time with the Lord, laundry started, floors swept and mopped for the day and check emails and write this post.
So do I want to get up earlier? I'm not so sure. Something to think about. I do love my quiet time in the mornings, or anytime for that matter.
I am thinking I might try to get up earlier in the morning and see how it goes. I have almost always been an earlier riser than the rest of my family, except my Dad. He use to get up about 4 am every morning. I miss him. I think about him daily.
The daily stuff is what I am grateful for today.
Be blessed and be a blessing.
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
So do I want to get up earlier? I'm not so sure. Something to think about. I do love my quiet time in the mornings, or anytime for that matter.
I am thinking I might try to get up earlier in the morning and see how it goes. I have almost always been an earlier riser than the rest of my family, except my Dad. He use to get up about 4 am every morning. I miss him. I think about him daily.
The daily stuff is what I am grateful for today.
Be blessed and be a blessing.
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, November 9, 2016
Post Election Day!
Good morning world! Donald Trump is going to be the USA's 45th president come January 2017. I'm smiling for a multitude of reasons this morning! First, there will be some changes for the good in our country. Second, I'm listening to Patrick being the Dad to our new kids. Telling them to pick up their mess. And so much more. Makes me a happy momma.
I'm not even sure what to say today!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I'm not even sure what to say today!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Monday, November 7, 2016
The Peace of God
Good morning world. What is drama? As we had our share of it this weekend, I have decided it is the opposite of God's peace. I'm talking about the peace that surpasses all understanding as in Philippians 4:7
"7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
The type of drama I am talking about it the family disrupting, lies spreading, harmful drama. Satan loves nothing more than to cause families to be torn apart.
We had a family meeting last night about such drama. I am not sure how it all went as I did not let anyone else talk. I will be talking to each of them individually today. This morning I have been up praying for that peace to be restored into my family.
If you are reading this post, please pray with me as I will pray for you.
Be blessed and be a blessing.
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
"7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
The type of drama I am talking about it the family disrupting, lies spreading, harmful drama. Satan loves nothing more than to cause families to be torn apart.
We had a family meeting last night about such drama. I am not sure how it all went as I did not let anyone else talk. I will be talking to each of them individually today. This morning I have been up praying for that peace to be restored into my family.
If you are reading this post, please pray with me as I will pray for you.
Be blessed and be a blessing.
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Saturday, November 5, 2016
Praying when I don't "feel" like it!
Good morning world. So the feel good kind of posts and positive things are good. However, there are times, like this morning, when I did not get enough sleep, or upset about something and the "feel good" just is not there. What do I do?
Almost everyone just left to help Pop with something. I will be spending time in prayer for a while. I do not pray because I do not feel great. I am praying because I have things on my mind and heart about my kids I need to go to Jesus about. He is the great healer of everything. Not just physical things, but emotions and such.
I need Jesus's calm and peace that surpasses all understanding in the mist of my foster kids storms. I need God's love to radiate through me for these kids since they have not know the love of a family.
I get upset when a family visit causes one of my kids to be in tears after the visit because a parent is talking about inappropriate subjects with them. It bothers me when kids tell tall tells as fact because they have heard lies for most of their life. And does not know the difference between a lie and the truth.
These are just a few things in my heart I will be talking to Jesus about. Jesus loves me and cares about me and my concerns, no matter how big or small. He's my Lord, Savior, and friend. To continue growing in my Christian walk with the Lord, I need to have a relationship with Him. To do that I have to spend time with him, hence the praying (talking) continuously. Sometimes it is out loud and sometimes it is the conversation that goes on in my head.
Thank you Jesus for the kind of relationship that I can come to you with everything, even when I do not feel all that great.
Be blessed y'all and be a blessing too!
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Almost everyone just left to help Pop with something. I will be spending time in prayer for a while. I do not pray because I do not feel great. I am praying because I have things on my mind and heart about my kids I need to go to Jesus about. He is the great healer of everything. Not just physical things, but emotions and such.
I need Jesus's calm and peace that surpasses all understanding in the mist of my foster kids storms. I need God's love to radiate through me for these kids since they have not know the love of a family.
I get upset when a family visit causes one of my kids to be in tears after the visit because a parent is talking about inappropriate subjects with them. It bothers me when kids tell tall tells as fact because they have heard lies for most of their life. And does not know the difference between a lie and the truth.
These are just a few things in my heart I will be talking to Jesus about. Jesus loves me and cares about me and my concerns, no matter how big or small. He's my Lord, Savior, and friend. To continue growing in my Christian walk with the Lord, I need to have a relationship with Him. To do that I have to spend time with him, hence the praying (talking) continuously. Sometimes it is out loud and sometimes it is the conversation that goes on in my head.
Thank you Jesus for the kind of relationship that I can come to you with everything, even when I do not feel all that great.
Be blessed y'all and be a blessing too!
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Friday, November 4, 2016
God given talent!
Good morning world. I have a plan today to clean out my studio after school with the boys. I got to paint last night with the ladies at church and it was fun! I really miss painting.
This was a painting party and what we paid to paint went to a medical mission that is going to Haiti. They are leaving earlier than planned because of the need that is there from the hurricane that hit a couple of weeks ago.
How can I use painting for God's glory? That is a question I will be praying about today. I have several unfinished projects to take care of hiding in the mess that my studio has become. And a couple of new projects in mind. Very excited to be painting again.
Last night was the first time, I think, that I have painted since the roll over accident in March. My right hand was very messed up and still gets stiff at times in the mornings, but praise God, it's so much better and I can paint now.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
p.s. I have some pictures on my facebook page, in the photos.
This was a painting party and what we paid to paint went to a medical mission that is going to Haiti. They are leaving earlier than planned because of the need that is there from the hurricane that hit a couple of weeks ago.
How can I use painting for God's glory? That is a question I will be praying about today. I have several unfinished projects to take care of hiding in the mess that my studio has become. And a couple of new projects in mind. Very excited to be painting again.
Last night was the first time, I think, that I have painted since the roll over accident in March. My right hand was very messed up and still gets stiff at times in the mornings, but praise God, it's so much better and I can paint now.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
p.s. I have some pictures on my facebook page, in the photos.
Thursday, November 3, 2016
Praying in Everything?
Good morning world! Yesterday I wrote about praying continually. "How do I do that?", someone asked last night. I'm not entirely sure. I talk to Jesus at different times during the day. If one of my boys thinks he is old enough to talk back, I ask Jesus for the right words as I am counting to whatever number I need to get to so I do not yell at him. Do I do this all the time or perfect? Not hardly. However, when I do, life is so much better!
I remember the wonder I felt when I first heard about praying for just about everything. As a kid, I knew about praying before meals. Something we did not do, but I knew about. And I knew about the Lord's prayer, I learned about it in Sunday School. But not sure when you were suppose to pray that prayer. I knew about praying before going to sleep. I did that sometimes.
When I heard about praying for anything and everything. I was amazed. Looking back I am not sure why. Hearing that some Christians pray before making major decisions was an eye opener. However, when I heard some Christians actually pray during the day, as though they were talking to Jesus, this was a life changer for me.
This morning I over slept and got up all the kids late. I could have been in a frazzled panic (and I have before), but as I was getting dressed I prayed,"Lord Jesus, please help this morning go smoothly even though we do not have as much time as usual." AND it did! No one was in a panic. All chores were done before the kids left for school. My boys are almost ready for school here at home.
Jesus loves me and wants to be the Lord of my life. That means ALL of my life, not just major decisions, before meals, before bed, or at church.
"14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." 2 Corinthians 13: 14
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I remember the wonder I felt when I first heard about praying for just about everything. As a kid, I knew about praying before meals. Something we did not do, but I knew about. And I knew about the Lord's prayer, I learned about it in Sunday School. But not sure when you were suppose to pray that prayer. I knew about praying before going to sleep. I did that sometimes.
When I heard about praying for anything and everything. I was amazed. Looking back I am not sure why. Hearing that some Christians pray before making major decisions was an eye opener. However, when I heard some Christians actually pray during the day, as though they were talking to Jesus, this was a life changer for me.
This morning I over slept and got up all the kids late. I could have been in a frazzled panic (and I have before), but as I was getting dressed I prayed,"Lord Jesus, please help this morning go smoothly even though we do not have as much time as usual." AND it did! No one was in a panic. All chores were done before the kids left for school. My boys are almost ready for school here at home.
Jesus loves me and wants to be the Lord of my life. That means ALL of my life, not just major decisions, before meals, before bed, or at church.
"14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." 2 Corinthians 13: 14
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Praying Continually???
Good morning y'all. Yesterday was an interesting day for sure. My kids did not have school so we went to help with cleaning out of a friend's house to get ready to sell. Well, let's just say, the honeymoon phase is over.
The honeymoon phase with foster kids is the time at first when they are on their best behavior and so is the foster family. Everyone is being extra good and nice to each other. And it can last anywhere from several weeks to a month or more to just a few hours or minutes. We have had kids in our home when the honeymoon phase was literally minutes.
Does this mean it was a horrible day and the kids lit the house on fire? No. It means they were being kids, mostly sibling stuff. Some of it got out of hand. Some did not. There were tears, on the girls part. All was handled. Everyone went to bed last night in tact and all was forgiven.
On a personal note, I was proud of myself and praising God! I have been able to keep my temper. I am ashamed to admit I am a yeller sometimes. I did not yell yesterday. At times, the kids knew I was upset or not happy with a behavior, but I did not raise my voice. That in itself is a blessing.
The difference in how the day went as opposed to how it could have gone? I prayed a lot! A couple of times I was not sure how to handle a situation, I prayed and asked Jesus for the words or help. I prayed to keep the volume down on my voice at times.
"16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances;for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18
When Jesus is in my day, in the everyday things, I handle it better. Does not always mean the storms go away. Jesus is the rock to hang onto during the storm so I do not wavier. Thank you Lord for being my rock!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
The honeymoon phase with foster kids is the time at first when they are on their best behavior and so is the foster family. Everyone is being extra good and nice to each other. And it can last anywhere from several weeks to a month or more to just a few hours or minutes. We have had kids in our home when the honeymoon phase was literally minutes.
Does this mean it was a horrible day and the kids lit the house on fire? No. It means they were being kids, mostly sibling stuff. Some of it got out of hand. Some did not. There were tears, on the girls part. All was handled. Everyone went to bed last night in tact and all was forgiven.
On a personal note, I was proud of myself and praising God! I have been able to keep my temper. I am ashamed to admit I am a yeller sometimes. I did not yell yesterday. At times, the kids knew I was upset or not happy with a behavior, but I did not raise my voice. That in itself is a blessing.
The difference in how the day went as opposed to how it could have gone? I prayed a lot! A couple of times I was not sure how to handle a situation, I prayed and asked Jesus for the words or help. I prayed to keep the volume down on my voice at times.
"16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances;for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18
When Jesus is in my day, in the everyday things, I handle it better. Does not always mean the storms go away. Jesus is the rock to hang onto during the storm so I do not wavier. Thank you Lord for being my rock!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Saturday, October 29, 2016
God's Not Dead!
Good morning world! Had a great time last night! We went down to West Plains, about 30 miles from us, to a Christian coffee shop called Live It Loud. On Friday nights they play Christian or faith based movies free along with handing out free popcorn and soda. I get their GREAT coffee! Love love love their coffee! It gives Starbucks a run for their money for sure!
Anyway, last night they played God's Not Dead, both 1 & 2. It was really good to see both of them back to back. I had seen both, but some of our kids hadn't seen either.
We brought a friend of the kids from church and she accepted Jesus in her heart last night after the movies. Was so awesome, the angles are still celebrating today!
In between the movies, we had birthday cake for Tommy. He is 19 now. We sang Happy Birthday and embarressed him. The movies, the birthday, the fun and fellowship, a great time had by all!
God is not dead! He's alive and well! AND living in my heart and life! Jesus is my Lord and Savior! What about you?
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Anyway, last night they played God's Not Dead, both 1 & 2. It was really good to see both of them back to back. I had seen both, but some of our kids hadn't seen either.
We brought a friend of the kids from church and she accepted Jesus in her heart last night after the movies. Was so awesome, the angles are still celebrating today!
In between the movies, we had birthday cake for Tommy. He is 19 now. We sang Happy Birthday and embarressed him. The movies, the birthday, the fun and fellowship, a great time had by all!
God is not dead! He's alive and well! AND living in my heart and life! Jesus is my Lord and Savior! What about you?
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Friday, October 28, 2016
Birthday blessings from God!
Good morning world! Today is another birthday in our home. Tommy, my oldest son, turns 19. I cannot believe that just about 18 years ago, I picked him up from the Division of Family Services office in Springfield. He was 1. He was our first foster kid. And it was on a Friday too. The following Monday, I picked up his brother David from the medical foster home in Springfield.
Those 2 stole my heart from the very beginning. Bringing Tommy home was an adventure all in itself. He was crying, not sure of what was going on. By the time we got home he was fine. Until he saw our dog, Charlie. Charlie was half Golden Retriever and half Great Dane and taller than Tommy.
Tommy did not cry, he screamed.
I had fertility problems, so we decided to foster then adopt if the opportunity came around. Tommy, David, then P.J. were our first kids. We got them as babies and adopted them as soon as we could. Their birth mom chose the dad over the kids. I now know that happens more often that not.
I was blessed by God to be able to have these boys since they were babies. We have had other blessings in our lives, come and go. Just as our house is full of blessings right now. And I love it!
Happy Birthday Tommy, I am so proud of the man of God you are growing to be. I love you so much!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Those 2 stole my heart from the very beginning. Bringing Tommy home was an adventure all in itself. He was crying, not sure of what was going on. By the time we got home he was fine. Until he saw our dog, Charlie. Charlie was half Golden Retriever and half Great Dane and taller than Tommy.
Tommy did not cry, he screamed.
I had fertility problems, so we decided to foster then adopt if the opportunity came around. Tommy, David, then P.J. were our first kids. We got them as babies and adopted them as soon as we could. Their birth mom chose the dad over the kids. I now know that happens more often that not.
I was blessed by God to be able to have these boys since they were babies. We have had other blessings in our lives, come and go. Just as our house is full of blessings right now. And I love it!
Happy Birthday Tommy, I am so proud of the man of God you are growing to be. I love you so much!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, October 27, 2016
God's Unconditional Love
Good morning world. Well, we picked up our new kids yesterday afternoon. Gave them a brief tour, dropped off their stuff and whisked them off to church. Good thing they are use to going to church. Because of all the cleaning and getting ready for them, I did not have supper ready. Should have used the crock pot, but just was not thinking. So we had cereal for supper. I think they were surprised. The youngest said she would rather have eggs. I was thinking I would rather have someone else cook dinner instead while I was busy. But I just said, "Sweetie, this is it for tonight."
When we get new kids, there is almost always a "honeymoon" phase. Where everyone is on their best behavior, including the parents. The shortest of this phase I have ever experienced was 30 minutes. So far we have gone beyond that. Things are already different here. Earlier bedtimes for all of them. Different kinds of chores.
My prayer for today is to remind them they are loved and worthy and a part of this family! We are not a perfect family, there is no such thing. However, we do have love. There is only one who is perfect and that is Jesus. And the love we have for these kids comes from Him.
We are told to love not only the lovable, but to love the unlovable. That type of unconditional loves comes only from God and having Jesus live in my heart. This is the love you have for a kid who has stolen from you because it is his habit to steal and does not know how to not steal. This is the love you have for a kid who hides food under his pillow because he had to in order to survive in his previous life or he did not eat. And this is the love you have for the kid who lies because he had to in his previous life or get beaten even if he did nothing wrong.
14 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
When we get new kids, there is almost always a "honeymoon" phase. Where everyone is on their best behavior, including the parents. The shortest of this phase I have ever experienced was 30 minutes. So far we have gone beyond that. Things are already different here. Earlier bedtimes for all of them. Different kinds of chores.
My prayer for today is to remind them they are loved and worthy and a part of this family! We are not a perfect family, there is no such thing. However, we do have love. There is only one who is perfect and that is Jesus. And the love we have for these kids comes from Him.
We are told to love not only the lovable, but to love the unlovable. That type of unconditional loves comes only from God and having Jesus live in my heart. This is the love you have for a kid who has stolen from you because it is his habit to steal and does not know how to not steal. This is the love you have for a kid who hides food under his pillow because he had to in order to survive in his previous life or he did not eat. And this is the love you have for the kid who lies because he had to in his previous life or get beaten even if he did nothing wrong.
14 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Sunday, October 23, 2016
God's love is unconditional and so is my worth
Good early morning world! I just love the "Aha" moments in life, don't you? I had one of those moments in church this morning. I cannot believe I am the age I am, have gone through all the stuff I have and just now realizing this! And here it is:
My joy or my pain is not my worth. Sounds like this is something I should already know, right? I am not sure why I have not ever thought about this before. When I have been in pain or hurt from a relationship, I have felt unworthy. When I have felt joy for what ever reason, I have felt I was worthy of what ever.
Not so, just like my salvation is not contingent on what I do or not do, how I feel, it is solely based on the blood of Jesus who reigns in my heart. My worth is not contingent on what I do or not do, or how I feel on that particular day. It to is unconditional. As God's love for me.
It is freeing to know I am worthy and loved by my Father in Heaven, a daughter of the most High, adopted into the Kingdom of God, bought by the blood of Jesus.
I have been a born again believer for many many years, about 25 or so years. I have strayed away and come back a time or two. So why have I just realized this now? No idea. All I can say is it is in God's timing.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
My joy or my pain is not my worth. Sounds like this is something I should already know, right? I am not sure why I have not ever thought about this before. When I have been in pain or hurt from a relationship, I have felt unworthy. When I have felt joy for what ever reason, I have felt I was worthy of what ever.
Not so, just like my salvation is not contingent on what I do or not do, how I feel, it is solely based on the blood of Jesus who reigns in my heart. My worth is not contingent on what I do or not do, or how I feel on that particular day. It to is unconditional. As God's love for me.
It is freeing to know I am worthy and loved by my Father in Heaven, a daughter of the most High, adopted into the Kingdom of God, bought by the blood of Jesus.
I have been a born again believer for many many years, about 25 or so years. I have strayed away and come back a time or two. So why have I just realized this now? No idea. All I can say is it is in God's timing.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, October 19, 2016
Family going to expand with Blessings!
Good morning world! Just picked up my oldest son from the bus station in Springfield. He's been working on the set of a new Christian movie, helping build sets, and such. He told us this morning he was used as a voice over and an extra in a couple of scenes. How exciting is that? He is going to be called again when another movie comes up with this crew.
I'm very happy to have him home!
Next week our family is growing again by 3! A 15 yr old boy, 13 or 14 yr old boy, and an 11 or 12 yr old girl. I have heard both ages on the younger boy and girl, so I am not sure. That means our existing foster daughter is going to be very happy to have another girl in the house. I'm excited to have more kids! I know, I must be nuts... The blessings out weigh the burdens, I promise!
So how is this going to change our family? Well, I have 3 boys, 1 foster daughter, add 3 more, that is 7 kids. Our new minivan seats 7, however the back seat can hold 4 instead of 3 if needed. Depends on the size of these new kids. Going anywhere together, church etc, means 2 vehicles. I'm ok with that.
Our dining room table will have to be extended next week instead of Thanksgiving Day. Right now it seats 8. Need it to seat 9 or more. I am already use to cooking for a lot, that is not too difficult. We had 3 pigs butchered just over a month ago. Good thing I guess, huh?
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I'm very happy to have him home!
Next week our family is growing again by 3! A 15 yr old boy, 13 or 14 yr old boy, and an 11 or 12 yr old girl. I have heard both ages on the younger boy and girl, so I am not sure. That means our existing foster daughter is going to be very happy to have another girl in the house. I'm excited to have more kids! I know, I must be nuts... The blessings out weigh the burdens, I promise!
So how is this going to change our family? Well, I have 3 boys, 1 foster daughter, add 3 more, that is 7 kids. Our new minivan seats 7, however the back seat can hold 4 instead of 3 if needed. Depends on the size of these new kids. Going anywhere together, church etc, means 2 vehicles. I'm ok with that.
Our dining room table will have to be extended next week instead of Thanksgiving Day. Right now it seats 8. Need it to seat 9 or more. I am already use to cooking for a lot, that is not too difficult. We had 3 pigs butchered just over a month ago. Good thing I guess, huh?
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, October 18, 2016
Deals, Family, and camping!
Good morning world! I just realized I missed the deal of the week, month, maybe in a long long time. I am an on and off couponer. This past week, I picked up 2 conditioners (that was all that was left on the shelf) at Dollar General, they were on sale for $2.50. The digital coupon I had was buy 2, get $4.00 off. So Buying 2 was only $.50!!! If I had been paying attention, I would have shopped early and gotten as many as I could! It is not hording, it is being prepared. LOL....
Besides that, there is a little less craziness in my 2 rooms. If I could stay focused in one room, maybe... nope would not happen even then. Today after school, I will be hitting it again. My goal is to have this done before Friday. I'm wanting to go camping again this weekend, so we shall see.
Looks like our family might be growing again by 3 this time! I am so excited! Possibly as soon as next Monday, hence my goal of getting the rooms put back together by Friday. Ok, also wanting to go camping.
I love camping this time of the year! Cool at night and mornings. Not to warm during the day. Perfect weather for hiking or just what ever we decide to do. Camp coffee is the best! My mind is wandering.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Besides that, there is a little less craziness in my 2 rooms. If I could stay focused in one room, maybe... nope would not happen even then. Today after school, I will be hitting it again. My goal is to have this done before Friday. I'm wanting to go camping again this weekend, so we shall see.
Looks like our family might be growing again by 3 this time! I am so excited! Possibly as soon as next Monday, hence my goal of getting the rooms put back together by Friday. Ok, also wanting to go camping.
I love camping this time of the year! Cool at night and mornings. Not to warm during the day. Perfect weather for hiking or just what ever we decide to do. Camp coffee is the best! My mind is wandering.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, October 13, 2016
Is God in this?
Good morning world! When we have foster kids come into our home, we let them know that they are a part of the family. We let them know what the rules of the house are and get them settled in their rooms.
Usually after a few days, even after the honeymoon phase, They have a place rooted in my heart. No matter what situation brought them to my home, I love them. No matter how many kids come into my home, my heart expands with love for them.
So when one of them has to leave due to their choice of behavior, I start thinking if there was anything I could have done different with them. Or what more I could have done for them. But at the end of those times, I realize I have loved them no matter what and that is all I can do for them.
One of my friends told me I have an awesome ministry. To impact a child's life in a positive Godly way is amazing. I thought about that a lot, then realized God put the desire back into our hearts to be foster parents to share our home, our family, our hearts, and our love with them.
Is it easy? That makes me laugh. Schedules are disrupted always. Extra kids means more laundry, bigger meals, more dishes, more squabbles to referee, and more hugs, more love. On the go almost daily with doctor appointments, therapy appointments, family visits, dfs meetings, and court.
Is it worth it all? DEFINITELY YES!!! When a foster kid calls you Mom or Dad for the first time, it melts your heart. The first hug, the first I love you too. Means the world. When a foster kid gets to go back home after the parents are ready for them. Makes me smile.
Hug a kid today!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Usually after a few days, even after the honeymoon phase, They have a place rooted in my heart. No matter what situation brought them to my home, I love them. No matter how many kids come into my home, my heart expands with love for them.
So when one of them has to leave due to their choice of behavior, I start thinking if there was anything I could have done different with them. Or what more I could have done for them. But at the end of those times, I realize I have loved them no matter what and that is all I can do for them.
One of my friends told me I have an awesome ministry. To impact a child's life in a positive Godly way is amazing. I thought about that a lot, then realized God put the desire back into our hearts to be foster parents to share our home, our family, our hearts, and our love with them.
Is it easy? That makes me laugh. Schedules are disrupted always. Extra kids means more laundry, bigger meals, more dishes, more squabbles to referee, and more hugs, more love. On the go almost daily with doctor appointments, therapy appointments, family visits, dfs meetings, and court.
Is it worth it all? DEFINITELY YES!!! When a foster kid calls you Mom or Dad for the first time, it melts your heart. The first hug, the first I love you too. Means the world. When a foster kid gets to go back home after the parents are ready for them. Makes me smile.
Hug a kid today!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Sunday, October 9, 2016
Fostering as a ministry
Good morning world! A few of my friends thought Patrick and I had completely lost our minds when we told them we were going to be foster parents again. We journeyed this path for a few years 11 to 12 years ago.
We have talked over the years about fostering again and had decided we did not want to go down that path again.
So what changed our minds? I think it was several things. First, a couple we have been friends with for a long time and had gotten out of touch with contacted us to reconnect. During the time we had not seen them, they became therapeutic foster parents which suits them as they have a kid with a form of autisum. They talked to us a lot the time we spent with them.
Second, I had the opportunity to talk to a judge we know about a different subject. Then he met my boys. I told him we had adopted them through the foster system. He encouraged us to become foster parents again as there was such a shortage in his district.
Are we nuts for fostering again? I look at this as our ministry. I have always felt my first ministry is at home. Now it has expanded. I can honestly say this is not an easy path to follow. I told one of our foster kids yesterday that it would be easier to kick them out. I do not believe we are to do that. This is the grace I wrote about yesterday. To show them God's grace.
We believe this is what God wants us to do now.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
We have talked over the years about fostering again and had decided we did not want to go down that path again.
So what changed our minds? I think it was several things. First, a couple we have been friends with for a long time and had gotten out of touch with contacted us to reconnect. During the time we had not seen them, they became therapeutic foster parents which suits them as they have a kid with a form of autisum. They talked to us a lot the time we spent with them.
Second, I had the opportunity to talk to a judge we know about a different subject. Then he met my boys. I told him we had adopted them through the foster system. He encouraged us to become foster parents again as there was such a shortage in his district.
Are we nuts for fostering again? I look at this as our ministry. I have always felt my first ministry is at home. Now it has expanded. I can honestly say this is not an easy path to follow. I told one of our foster kids yesterday that it would be easier to kick them out. I do not believe we are to do that. This is the grace I wrote about yesterday. To show them God's grace.
We believe this is what God wants us to do now.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Saturday, October 8, 2016
God's Grace
Good morning world! I have been thinking last night and this morning about God's grace.
The Webster's definition of grace is:
s>b archaic : mercy, pardonc : a special favor : privilege grace , shall rule his heritage — Rudyard Kipling>d : disposition to or an act or instance of kindness, courtesy, or clemencye : a temporary exemption : reprieve
I love that the first definition talks about the grace of God. Coming from God, grace is unmerited. We did nothing to deserve it. In fact quite the opposite. We, I, do not deserve God's grace. However, He loved us so much that he sent Jesus to pay the ultimate price, His life for us. To atone for our sins.
"7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace...." Ephesians 1:7 NIV
In showing others God's love, am I suppose to show them God's grace too? I believe so.
We have had some major problems going on with one of our foster kids lately. I believe I need to show them, my kids also, God's grace. For now that means even though poor choices have been made, I will still love him but there are still consequences for the actions.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
The Webster's definition of grace is:
Full Definition of grace
- 1a : unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration or sanctificationb : a virtue coming from Godc : a state of sanctification enjoyed through divine grace
3a : a charming or attractive trait or characteristicb : a pleasing appearance or effect : charm grace
Friday, October 7, 2016
God's plans
Good morning world. Been thinking this morning about God. One of our foster kids does not believe in God. I have not really talked to them about this, Patrick has but I think the kid was just being polite as I found out later he had tuned Patrick out.
I guess I do not understand the rational of not believing. All I have to do is look around me, all around. Usually when I go camping, I feel really close to God. All of His creation is around me. I see God's love in the smiles of my children. I can hear it in their laughter.
I have had doubts in the past about what I believe. At times when I have prayed so hard and so long for something, I have been discouraged. When I had fertility problems, I prayed, I begged, I cried, I bargained with God for me to be able to get pregnant.
God had different plans for my life. If I had become pregnant and had babies of my own, I might not have ever become a foster parent. Then I would not have been blessed with my 3 boys!
Other than showing my foster kid God's love and God's grace on a daily basis, I am not sure what else to do. Except pray.
My prayer for this kid and others is for their hearts to be soften, someone to be placed in their path to lead them to Christ, and for them to receive the love that is given to them.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I guess I do not understand the rational of not believing. All I have to do is look around me, all around. Usually when I go camping, I feel really close to God. All of His creation is around me. I see God's love in the smiles of my children. I can hear it in their laughter.
I have had doubts in the past about what I believe. At times when I have prayed so hard and so long for something, I have been discouraged. When I had fertility problems, I prayed, I begged, I cried, I bargained with God for me to be able to get pregnant.
God had different plans for my life. If I had become pregnant and had babies of my own, I might not have ever become a foster parent. Then I would not have been blessed with my 3 boys!
Other than showing my foster kid God's love and God's grace on a daily basis, I am not sure what else to do. Except pray.
My prayer for this kid and others is for their hearts to be soften, someone to be placed in their path to lead them to Christ, and for them to receive the love that is given to them.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, October 6, 2016
A kitty Momma
Good afternoon world. Just finished up from the final touches of getting the house ready for a home visit from one of the case workers. I do not stress when she comes like I do another one. However, I still want things nice.
Had to clean up a kid's room for this visit. Not very happy about that. The rest of the house just needed a touch up because I had deep cleaned earlier in the week because of another home visit from a case worker. She I sometimes stress out about when she comes.
In case I did not say earlier, we have foster kids. Usually my house is in fairly good shape. But with 5 kids, one is 18 and gone a great deal of the time, the house gets very lived in. At times.
I have not been following a regular routine for cleaning as I have done in the past few years. Something I need to get back doing just that.
I now have a baby kitten born yesterday that I am having to bottle feed. She is so precious. But I think her name might be Pumpkin. Her momma had 4 babies. She was not a good momma. She did not stay with them and 3 died. So I'm being a momma, kitty momma that is.
Off to feed the newest baby,
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Had a little talk with Jesus
Good morning world. Another day, another...... Use to say dollar... But today I will say another chance to do anything and everything. Another day to breathe, run, walk, hug.....
No, I did not get enough sleep. And no I still have a mountain of things I wan't/need to get done today, tomorrow, this week, this month.... So what is different than how I felt a day or two ago, especially this past weekend?
Had a little talk with Jesus. I was reminded that I am His first and foremost. That I matter no matter what.
So if all of this is true, and it is, then why should I stay upset? Do I have a reason to be upset, yes before. But for me to let it grow and continue to be upset and steal my joy that is God given is not right of me or for me.
Today I am grateful for all I have and all I am. Only for the grace of God!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
No, I did not get enough sleep. And no I still have a mountain of things I wan't/need to get done today, tomorrow, this week, this month.... So what is different than how I felt a day or two ago, especially this past weekend?
Had a little talk with Jesus. I was reminded that I am His first and foremost. That I matter no matter what.
So if all of this is true, and it is, then why should I stay upset? Do I have a reason to be upset, yes before. But for me to let it grow and continue to be upset and steal my joy that is God given is not right of me or for me.
Today I am grateful for all I have and all I am. Only for the grace of God!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, October 4, 2016
I'm fine
Good morning world. How are you? Me, I'm fine.
How often do we say "fine" when we really are not fine? I do it often, more often than I really like to admit. I am not fine.
Let's turn the tables a little. When you ask "How are you?" Do you really want to know how I am doing or anyone else? Or is this just a polite saying we have gotten use to using?
My boys know if I say "I'm peachy." that means definitely I'm not peachy or fine. In fact, when I say that to them, I usually will be telling them what is wrong.
So why do we, or I do this? Most of my friends know when I am upset. I wear my feelings on my face. I don't know.
I started this post yesterday morning when I was still upset over the weekend. We had gone camping. Usually I calm down and relax when we camp. This time I did not.
However, yesterday, I ended up a lot more calm and not so angry. I was even able to seperate my feelings and realize where the anger is coming from. I will deal with that today.
Today, after school, it's a massive home blessing (cleaning). Stuff is still around from camping, mostly dirty clothes. A caseworker is coming today for one of the kids. Most of the time I do not worry about this, but today I do.
So next time I am tempted to say "fine", I am going to stop and think a bit before I answer.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
How often do we say "fine" when we really are not fine? I do it often, more often than I really like to admit. I am not fine.
Let's turn the tables a little. When you ask "How are you?" Do you really want to know how I am doing or anyone else? Or is this just a polite saying we have gotten use to using?
My boys know if I say "I'm peachy." that means definitely I'm not peachy or fine. In fact, when I say that to them, I usually will be telling them what is wrong.
So why do we, or I do this? Most of my friends know when I am upset. I wear my feelings on my face. I don't know.
I started this post yesterday morning when I was still upset over the weekend. We had gone camping. Usually I calm down and relax when we camp. This time I did not.
However, yesterday, I ended up a lot more calm and not so angry. I was even able to seperate my feelings and realize where the anger is coming from. I will deal with that today.
Today, after school, it's a massive home blessing (cleaning). Stuff is still around from camping, mostly dirty clothes. A caseworker is coming today for one of the kids. Most of the time I do not worry about this, but today I do.
So next time I am tempted to say "fine", I am going to stop and think a bit before I answer.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Sunday, August 28, 2016
A blessed morning with kids!
Good morning world! Such blessings in my home today! I have 6 kids in my home this weekend, my 3, my new 2, and a friend of the boys. This morning there is no extra drama. Just the sounds of everyone getting up, dressed, getting chores done. Ready for the day.
It is these days that make the hard days easier to take. God's grace and love can be felt here now. Even when those cannot be felt, they are here.
I have heard that others could not be foster parents because they would get too attached and it would hurt to much when the kids went back to their parents.
Getting attached is a good thing for these kids. They are in care for a reason. A lot of them have attachment problems, so if they get attached to you, that is a good thing. Us getting attached to them is not a bad thing either.
Our primary goal as foster parents is to provide a safe place for these kids. There is a lot that goes into this simple statement. In our home, we want the kids to know that they are loved no matter what.
Does it hurt when kids leave our home? Yes it does. But I happen to think the time and blessings I get from the kids being in our home is worth the hurt!
What about you? Could you share your home and heart to be a foster parent?
Be blessed and be a blessing!!
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
It is these days that make the hard days easier to take. God's grace and love can be felt here now. Even when those cannot be felt, they are here.
I have heard that others could not be foster parents because they would get too attached and it would hurt to much when the kids went back to their parents.
Getting attached is a good thing for these kids. They are in care for a reason. A lot of them have attachment problems, so if they get attached to you, that is a good thing. Us getting attached to them is not a bad thing either.
Our primary goal as foster parents is to provide a safe place for these kids. There is a lot that goes into this simple statement. In our home, we want the kids to know that they are loved no matter what.
Does it hurt when kids leave our home? Yes it does. But I happen to think the time and blessings I get from the kids being in our home is worth the hurt!
What about you? Could you share your home and heart to be a foster parent?
Be blessed and be a blessing!!
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, August 24, 2016
Back again
Good afternoon world. I use to blog in the mornings. However, so much has changed, I might start posting in the afternoon or evenings. I should be washing dishes and cleaning up the kitchen. But I would rather start this up again.
As I said, so much has changed. We have become foster parents again after about 11 years or so. We have had the thought of doing, then we would dismiss the thought. A friend of ours, a judge who sees these kids and their families,talked us into taking the classes again and start fostering. So we did.
The journey started out in an all day Saturday class with 4 other couples. I really enjoyed the class as well as my classmates. Our first kids were 4 little ones for respite care. Meaning we were to have them for 3 day, ended up having them for 7. They were a handful to say the least.
They left on a Tuesday morning. On Wednesday afternoon, I went to pick up 3 more kids, ages ranged from 15 down to 15 months. Those children we had in our home for just over a month before they went to a foster home in their home town. The oldest one needed to go to his school.
Was I sad to see them go? Definitely! I still miss them today and they have been gone since the beginning of August. So they left on a Tuesday. I called our license worker and teased her about her calling us the next day with kids. She said it might not happen that way. However, usually after the first couple of weeks of school, calls about kids would start coming in.
It was not the next day. It was 3 days later, a 13 year old arrived at our home. Because I thought I had at least a couple of weeks, I had decided to rearrange my kitchen, the cabinets, drawers, and counter tops. So needless to say, my kitchen was a mess as well as my dining room table. I finally got it finished a few days ago.
A couple of days ago, I was wondering around Walmart with my boys and yes, I get a call. Asking me about a 16 year old. While I was asking questions, I was praying to get direction. I also did this with each phone call about placing children. So as of now our family is up by 2.
I look at this as a ministry that we learn from every day! We can show God's love to these kids It shows me just how big our hearts can get.
That's all for today as I could go on and on. Be blessed and be a blessing.
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
As I said, so much has changed. We have become foster parents again after about 11 years or so. We have had the thought of doing, then we would dismiss the thought. A friend of ours, a judge who sees these kids and their families,talked us into taking the classes again and start fostering. So we did.
The journey started out in an all day Saturday class with 4 other couples. I really enjoyed the class as well as my classmates. Our first kids were 4 little ones for respite care. Meaning we were to have them for 3 day, ended up having them for 7. They were a handful to say the least.
They left on a Tuesday morning. On Wednesday afternoon, I went to pick up 3 more kids, ages ranged from 15 down to 15 months. Those children we had in our home for just over a month before they went to a foster home in their home town. The oldest one needed to go to his school.
Was I sad to see them go? Definitely! I still miss them today and they have been gone since the beginning of August. So they left on a Tuesday. I called our license worker and teased her about her calling us the next day with kids. She said it might not happen that way. However, usually after the first couple of weeks of school, calls about kids would start coming in.
It was not the next day. It was 3 days later, a 13 year old arrived at our home. Because I thought I had at least a couple of weeks, I had decided to rearrange my kitchen, the cabinets, drawers, and counter tops. So needless to say, my kitchen was a mess as well as my dining room table. I finally got it finished a few days ago.
A couple of days ago, I was wondering around Walmart with my boys and yes, I get a call. Asking me about a 16 year old. While I was asking questions, I was praying to get direction. I also did this with each phone call about placing children. So as of now our family is up by 2.
I look at this as a ministry that we learn from every day! We can show God's love to these kids It shows me just how big our hearts can get.
That's all for today as I could go on and on. Be blessed and be a blessing.
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Saturday, February 6, 2016
Cleaning and Organizing
Good morning world. In the middle of "spring" cleaning and organizing too many rooms at the same time. I am usually better than this with sticking to one room at a time. The problem is I have bought different containers to help me with the organizing part I want to get them in place.
Pantry ....check
Canning shelf/mud room....check
Still working on the kitchen, bathroom, my room, computer room, dining room. Pretty much each room except the living room. And I even have a couple of ideas about that room too. The problem is I have lost my to-do list. Again.
I have watched several different you tube videos about different ways to organize, especially with Dollar Tree items. So between those and Pinterest, I have enough ideas to last me a while.
I have enough time to get another cup of coffee before I start for the day.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Pantry ....check
Canning shelf/mud room....check
Still working on the kitchen, bathroom, my room, computer room, dining room. Pretty much each room except the living room. And I even have a couple of ideas about that room too. The problem is I have lost my to-do list. Again.
I have watched several different you tube videos about different ways to organize, especially with Dollar Tree items. So between those and Pinterest, I have enough ideas to last me a while.
I have enough time to get another cup of coffee before I start for the day.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, February 4, 2016
God given Joy
Good morning world. Been a few days again since I have been here. A lot has gone one in a few days. Mostly both Patrick and I were sick over the weekend. Although I think Patrick started not feeling so good sometime Thursday because Friday he had no energy at all.
I was down for the count starting Saturday morning. However, I got up, got dressed, started my day. Before noon, I was on the couch covered with a warm throw falling asleep. I slept most of Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
There was also something going on between me and hubby. It was my doing and we have since talked about it. So I am hoping and praying we have gotten past it.
I have purposed today to not lose my joy that God has given to me. How am I going to do this? When I get frustrated with life in general, pray. When one of my boys talk back, pray. When someone is rude, pray for them. When I am frustrating someone or rude, I'll pray for myself.
Have a great day, I am going to.....
Be blessed an be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I was down for the count starting Saturday morning. However, I got up, got dressed, started my day. Before noon, I was on the couch covered with a warm throw falling asleep. I slept most of Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
There was also something going on between me and hubby. It was my doing and we have since talked about it. So I am hoping and praying we have gotten past it.
I have purposed today to not lose my joy that God has given to me. How am I going to do this? When I get frustrated with life in general, pray. When one of my boys talk back, pray. When someone is rude, pray for them. When I am frustrating someone or rude, I'll pray for myself.
Have a great day, I am going to.....
Be blessed an be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Homemade lotion and body butter
Good morning world. I have been one busy camper this morning. Would I ever love to go camping this coming weekend. It is suppose to be in the 60's Saturday. I will have to work on Patrick and the boys.
Back to what all I have done this morning. After getting up and moving, shower, coffee, starting laundry, I started making my first batch of lotion. I choose a couple of different recipes and made one of my own.
It is all about the same part oils and part water. In the oils I used coconut, jojoba, and shea. The waters are distilled water with rose water and alovera. I also used lavender essential oils and vitamin E. I have thrown out all the store bought lotions. I think I will have enough lotion to last me for a while.
In the freezer are the beginnings of whipped body butter. I am going to use this for a face cream. It has coconut oil, coco and shea butters, along with lavender essential oil.
Oh and I made a coconut oil/sugar scrub this morning too. Felt so good on my skin.
While I am not so keen on the homemade shampoos, I LOVE the homemade skin care items!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Back to what all I have done this morning. After getting up and moving, shower, coffee, starting laundry, I started making my first batch of lotion. I choose a couple of different recipes and made one of my own.
It is all about the same part oils and part water. In the oils I used coconut, jojoba, and shea. The waters are distilled water with rose water and alovera. I also used lavender essential oils and vitamin E. I have thrown out all the store bought lotions. I think I will have enough lotion to last me for a while.
In the freezer are the beginnings of whipped body butter. I am going to use this for a face cream. It has coconut oil, coco and shea butters, along with lavender essential oil.
Oh and I made a coconut oil/sugar scrub this morning too. Felt so good on my skin.
While I am not so keen on the homemade shampoos, I LOVE the homemade skin care items!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
A down day
Good morning world. I did pretty much nothing yesterday and sort of cheated. We had school in the morning. After that my to-do list just sat on my desk collecting dust. Just did not feel all that great and spent the day in my room. My boys were great though.
On days like yesterday, they made lunch for themselves and me. Dishes did not get washed, however, the kitchen was straightened up and dishes stacked. I let them have a marathon day of the TV show Heartland. It is their new favorite.
This morning I have finished doing some billing for Pat's Services and now I am heading to the kitchen to get dishes washed and get my day planned. I have a couple of phone calls to make today also. Believe it or not, if it does not get put on my list, I will forget till it is too late in the day.
Hopefully today will be productive as I am still upset with a situation here at hand. I need to be praying more today.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
On days like yesterday, they made lunch for themselves and me. Dishes did not get washed, however, the kitchen was straightened up and dishes stacked. I let them have a marathon day of the TV show Heartland. It is their new favorite.
This morning I have finished doing some billing for Pat's Services and now I am heading to the kitchen to get dishes washed and get my day planned. I have a couple of phone calls to make today also. Believe it or not, if it does not get put on my list, I will forget till it is too late in the day.
Hopefully today will be productive as I am still upset with a situation here at hand. I need to be praying more today.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Even Christians make bad choices
Good morning world. Choices. Our, my, world is formed by choices. My Dad once told me that we can do what ever we want to do, as long as we are willing to accept the consequences, whether they be good or bad. I was a teen when he first started telling me that. Took me a while to really understand what he meant.
Even as Christians, we sometimes make bad choices. Does this mean God is going to abandon us? Definitely not. He says
...As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Joshua 1:5 NIV
Does poor choices mean God is not going to bless me? No. I know of someone whom makes poor choices about her life, a lot of them. However, God still blesses her, abundantly! Why? She believes with a child-like faith that God is going to bless her. She makes a bad choice, asks for forgiveness, knows she is forgiven, and just believes God is going to take care of all her needs.
God's grace is more than enough!
This trust, or the lack of it, that gets me into trouble at times. When a situation is at hand where I need to be more trusting that God is going to provide all my (my families) needs, I freeze up. Not all the time. There are times when I know without a doubt, He is going to provide even when I can not see the way.
However recently I made a poor choice about money. And as many times as God has provided in this area, I still was worried. So I took it in my own hands and my poor choice has caused some strife in my home. This is what Satan wants. Families to be at odds with each other, worry, and ultimately torn apart. We are not being torn apart. And I will fight for my family and my marriage.
This is done in prayer and praise.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Even as Christians, we sometimes make bad choices. Does this mean God is going to abandon us? Definitely not. He says
...As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Joshua 1:5 NIV
Does poor choices mean God is not going to bless me? No. I know of someone whom makes poor choices about her life, a lot of them. However, God still blesses her, abundantly! Why? She believes with a child-like faith that God is going to bless her. She makes a bad choice, asks for forgiveness, knows she is forgiven, and just believes God is going to take care of all her needs.
God's grace is more than enough!
This trust, or the lack of it, that gets me into trouble at times. When a situation is at hand where I need to be more trusting that God is going to provide all my (my families) needs, I freeze up. Not all the time. There are times when I know without a doubt, He is going to provide even when I can not see the way.
However recently I made a poor choice about money. And as many times as God has provided in this area, I still was worried. So I took it in my own hands and my poor choice has caused some strife in my home. This is what Satan wants. Families to be at odds with each other, worry, and ultimately torn apart. We are not being torn apart. And I will fight for my family and my marriage.
This is done in prayer and praise.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Monday, January 25, 2016
Updates
Good morning world. It has been a few days again since I have posted here. Here is what has been happening.
First, I have not finished my room and have only a little to do in the computer room. And am now wanting to start in the bathroom. I have a do to list that does have a few things marked off. In the computer room, I still have to pull out 2015 stuff from the files. A basket of papers to go through. Another desk to clear off. And scrub part of the floor.
In my room, everything. Clear off Patrick's nightstand. Clear off our headboard. Some things that got put in my room that does not belong needs to go somewhere else. A few clothes need hung up. Then of course the usual dusting and vacuuming.
Today, being Monday, I have the usual extra laundry, towels and sheets. Also I will be blessing my home with the general clean up, dusting, floors, deep cleaning the bathroom and such.
An update on my eating plan. I have started losing again. I am a happy camper for sure! Had lost and gained the same 10 pounds or so for a few months now. Hopefully, I will not take back that weight again. I'm down 4 pounds. One of my goals with this is to be off the blood pressure medications before summer.
Have a great day! Today is the day that the Lord has made! Let us rejoice and be glad in it!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
First, I have not finished my room and have only a little to do in the computer room. And am now wanting to start in the bathroom. I have a do to list that does have a few things marked off. In the computer room, I still have to pull out 2015 stuff from the files. A basket of papers to go through. Another desk to clear off. And scrub part of the floor.
In my room, everything. Clear off Patrick's nightstand. Clear off our headboard. Some things that got put in my room that does not belong needs to go somewhere else. A few clothes need hung up. Then of course the usual dusting and vacuuming.
Today, being Monday, I have the usual extra laundry, towels and sheets. Also I will be blessing my home with the general clean up, dusting, floors, deep cleaning the bathroom and such.
An update on my eating plan. I have started losing again. I am a happy camper for sure! Had lost and gained the same 10 pounds or so for a few months now. Hopefully, I will not take back that weight again. I'm down 4 pounds. One of my goals with this is to be off the blood pressure medications before summer.
Have a great day! Today is the day that the Lord has made! Let us rejoice and be glad in it!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Friday, January 22, 2016
Spring Cleaning early?
Good morning world. I have been MIA for a few days. Well, I am back!
For the past few days I seem to have gotten bit by the spring cleaning bug. I started in the kitchen, did not quite finish before moving into my room. In the kitchen I moved some cabinets around to make it easier to put away dishes. Also, straightened up pots and pans. I really need to start taking pictures.
Yesterday I asked Patrick and Tyler to make a couple of shelves for me. One above a couple of windows in my bedroom, about 6 feet long. The other one in the computer room all along one wall up about 18 inches from the ceiling above a window. It is about 12 feet long.
Guess what I am going to be doing today? I will be putting books and such on both. Have needed the extra shelf space for some time now. Very happy to have them!
In my room, I have been clearing off both my nightstand and my vanity. Throwing away junk that seems to multiply on it's own.
I was happy to wake up this morning to a cleared off nightstand. I think we get so use to clutter, we (I) do not realize how much it affects us in a negative way. I thought I needed all the "stuff" on the nightstand. When in truth I did not!
The other thing on my To-Do list for today is to go through my jewelry and get it better organized. My good stuff is put away. I want the everyday things better organized. Also, a general clean up in my bedroom. Under the bed, under the dressers and nightstands, clear off my headboard.
My son just brought breakfast to me. Eggs and bacon. Yum!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
For the past few days I seem to have gotten bit by the spring cleaning bug. I started in the kitchen, did not quite finish before moving into my room. In the kitchen I moved some cabinets around to make it easier to put away dishes. Also, straightened up pots and pans. I really need to start taking pictures.
Yesterday I asked Patrick and Tyler to make a couple of shelves for me. One above a couple of windows in my bedroom, about 6 feet long. The other one in the computer room all along one wall up about 18 inches from the ceiling above a window. It is about 12 feet long.
Guess what I am going to be doing today? I will be putting books and such on both. Have needed the extra shelf space for some time now. Very happy to have them!
In my room, I have been clearing off both my nightstand and my vanity. Throwing away junk that seems to multiply on it's own.
I was happy to wake up this morning to a cleared off nightstand. I think we get so use to clutter, we (I) do not realize how much it affects us in a negative way. I thought I needed all the "stuff" on the nightstand. When in truth I did not!
The other thing on my To-Do list for today is to go through my jewelry and get it better organized. My good stuff is put away. I want the everyday things better organized. Also, a general clean up in my bedroom. Under the bed, under the dressers and nightstands, clear off my headboard.
My son just brought breakfast to me. Eggs and bacon. Yum!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, January 14, 2016
The beginning of Spring Cleaning
Good morning world. Woke up this morning to a house full of smoke. Our house on fire? Nope. Just our wood stove having some problems. And I am married to a Heating & Air man. You have heard of the cobbler's children going with out shoes? I also have a dishwasher not working. He fixes appliances too. I think I am on his list.
I am getting the spring cleaning fever and it is still cold outside. Yesterday I started in the kitchen. Did some re-arranging of cabinets. I moved the dishes and glasses to the cabinet over the dishwasher and closer to the sink and drainer. Moved my glass serving bowls to the cabinet that held the dishes.
Cleaned my counter tops really good. Most of the cabinets under the counters. I still have 2 major of those cabinets to go through.
Today both fridges will be cleaned out and scrubbed. Then heading behind the bar, in the mud room (sort of), where my canning shelves are located. Because it is behind the free standing bar, it become the catch-all.
Maybe by the time spring gets here, I will be finished with spring cleaning.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I am getting the spring cleaning fever and it is still cold outside. Yesterday I started in the kitchen. Did some re-arranging of cabinets. I moved the dishes and glasses to the cabinet over the dishwasher and closer to the sink and drainer. Moved my glass serving bowls to the cabinet that held the dishes.
Cleaned my counter tops really good. Most of the cabinets under the counters. I still have 2 major of those cabinets to go through.
Today both fridges will be cleaned out and scrubbed. Then heading behind the bar, in the mud room (sort of), where my canning shelves are located. Because it is behind the free standing bar, it become the catch-all.
Maybe by the time spring gets here, I will be finished with spring cleaning.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
My typical mornings
Good morning world! We are all creatures of habit, whether those habits are good or bad. Routines are just habits we have made for ourselves.
In the mornings I get up, head to the bathroom. While I am in there I start laundry (yes, my laundry room and bathroom are one and the same), I swish and swipe the bathroom, and take a shower most mornings.
Then I head to the kitchen to make coffee. While coffee is making, 3 minutes, I gather any dishes or cups from the dining room table and counters, put them in the sink to get washed with breakfast dishes.
A habit I have been in for years is to take a cup of coffee to Patrick. I feel it is a small thing I can do for him to make him feel special. The rare occasion I do not bring him coffee, he thinks I am angry with him. Sometimes I am. So I will get both his and my cup of coffee, then head to my bedroom to get dressed.
I attempt to wake up Patrick. After getting dressed, I head to the computer room to read my devotion and scriptures, check facebook and write on my blog. Because it is still quiet in the house, I can spend some time with my Lord!
Oh I forgot, somewhere in there I will get the rest of the guys up too. They usually get their breakfast after they do their chores. Somewhere between 8 and 9 we head to the classroom for school.
During school and sometimes before, I will have laundry switched around. Usually after school everything gets folded and put away.
Today it is suppose to be warmer outside. We probably will get some things picked up and straightened up outside after school.
Some of my morning routine comes from Flylady, such as starting laundry and swishing and swiping the bathroom.
Have a great day as will I.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
In the mornings I get up, head to the bathroom. While I am in there I start laundry (yes, my laundry room and bathroom are one and the same), I swish and swipe the bathroom, and take a shower most mornings.
Then I head to the kitchen to make coffee. While coffee is making, 3 minutes, I gather any dishes or cups from the dining room table and counters, put them in the sink to get washed with breakfast dishes.
A habit I have been in for years is to take a cup of coffee to Patrick. I feel it is a small thing I can do for him to make him feel special. The rare occasion I do not bring him coffee, he thinks I am angry with him. Sometimes I am. So I will get both his and my cup of coffee, then head to my bedroom to get dressed.
I attempt to wake up Patrick. After getting dressed, I head to the computer room to read my devotion and scriptures, check facebook and write on my blog. Because it is still quiet in the house, I can spend some time with my Lord!
Oh I forgot, somewhere in there I will get the rest of the guys up too. They usually get their breakfast after they do their chores. Somewhere between 8 and 9 we head to the classroom for school.
During school and sometimes before, I will have laundry switched around. Usually after school everything gets folded and put away.
Today it is suppose to be warmer outside. We probably will get some things picked up and straightened up outside after school.
Some of my morning routine comes from Flylady, such as starting laundry and swishing and swiping the bathroom.
Have a great day as will I.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Sunday, January 10, 2016
The Joy of the Lord is my Strength!
Good morning world! What a glorious Sunday morning it is, however cold outside.
Have you ever woke up and just felt all is right with the world? My world, not the world. The world is falling apart at the seams, wars, rumors of wars, economy falling apart, stock market falling, weird weather, and more.
My world, however, is full of God's love, family and friends, God's grace and mercy,
Is my world always this way? No. However, I choose joy. The joy of the Lord is my strength.
"...for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10 NIV
So what is different this morning from any other day? I cannot really say. Praying more than normal, not really. Believe more, maybe. Whatever it is, I will take it!
Thank you Jesus for your saving grace in my life!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Have you ever woke up and just felt all is right with the world? My world, not the world. The world is falling apart at the seams, wars, rumors of wars, economy falling apart, stock market falling, weird weather, and more.
My world, however, is full of God's love, family and friends, God's grace and mercy,
Is my world always this way? No. However, I choose joy. The joy of the Lord is my strength.
"...for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10 NIV
So what is different this morning from any other day? I cannot really say. Praying more than normal, not really. Believe more, maybe. Whatever it is, I will take it!
Thank you Jesus for your saving grace in my life!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Busy again, yes!!!
Good morning world! Ok, this morning is one of those mornings when my get up and go left without me. I already feel I could take a nap. And I went to bed fairly early last night. Not sure what is up with this. Going to have another cup of coffee and have a protein shake. Might help.
I have so much to get done today, I am not sure where to start. I need a list. Yes, I am a list person. Even with housework, if I have a list it goes much better for me. Grocery lists, chores list, school lists, reading lists, housework lists, to get done today lists.....
I just looked at the time and I have to take Patrick to the doctor this morning and I still have to get dressed. My day is so not going as planned.
I will be really busy when I get back from the doctor's appointment. While I'm gone, the boys will take the rest of the Christmas boxes out to the shop. I will have the boys clean out behind the bar, which always becomes the catch all.
They can also clean their rooms really good. Then when I get home, I will attack the kitchen and finish getting out a few Christmas coffee cups and re-organize some cabinets and clear off the cabinets again.
I am so grateful to have these things to take care of and the God given energy to do all I need and want to do.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
I have so much to get done today, I am not sure where to start. I need a list. Yes, I am a list person. Even with housework, if I have a list it goes much better for me. Grocery lists, chores list, school lists, reading lists, housework lists, to get done today lists.....
I just looked at the time and I have to take Patrick to the doctor this morning and I still have to get dressed. My day is so not going as planned.
I will be really busy when I get back from the doctor's appointment. While I'm gone, the boys will take the rest of the Christmas boxes out to the shop. I will have the boys clean out behind the bar, which always becomes the catch all.
They can also clean their rooms really good. Then when I get home, I will attack the kitchen and finish getting out a few Christmas coffee cups and re-organize some cabinets and clear off the cabinets again.
I am so grateful to have these things to take care of and the God given energy to do all I need and want to do.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Busy, busy, busy
Good morning world! Heading to the classroom in a few minutes. Hopefully the boys started the fire in the stove as it was 17 when I got up this morning. BRRRR!
Going to get the tree out of here today as well as the rest of the Christmas decorations. Yesterday we had an impromptu birthday dinner for a friend of Patrick's. It turned out good, I think. The boys made dinner and the cake.
Hopefully today, after the decorations are out of the house, I will be setting up the desk for my new sewing machine. I have my first project planned, curtains for the bathroom.
I have been making a list of things that need done to bless our house. Some painting, some sheet rock work, floor fixing, new roof a bit later. Possibly a new room added on. Have to do some research about that one.
This week is definitely a working week.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Going to get the tree out of here today as well as the rest of the Christmas decorations. Yesterday we had an impromptu birthday dinner for a friend of Patrick's. It turned out good, I think. The boys made dinner and the cake.
Hopefully today, after the decorations are out of the house, I will be setting up the desk for my new sewing machine. I have my first project planned, curtains for the bathroom.
I have been making a list of things that need done to bless our house. Some painting, some sheet rock work, floor fixing, new roof a bit later. Possibly a new room added on. Have to do some research about that one.
This week is definitely a working week.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
Monday, January 4, 2016
Starting the new week and year!
Good morning world! Late getting moving this morning. I got up on time and promptly laid back down. Fell asleep! Slept for about an hour. So we are late getting started as the boys had to not only do their chores this morning but also start a fire in the classroom.
As soon as I am finished writing this, we will be heading to the classroom. We are going to start a few studies, clean up the classroom, and this afternoon put away Christmas stuff then clean up the house.
We have been gone for 5 days visiting friends we have been estranged from for almost a year. It was a good visit. We have missed their friendship and plan on continuing it.
In saying that, I have 5 days of laundry, 5 days of cleaning, 5 days of everything. I usually do at least one load of laundry a day.
So I am ready for a busy day! School first in a few minutes.
A new year, a new month, a new week, a new day, a new hour, a new minute! Going to make the best of the time.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
As soon as I am finished writing this, we will be heading to the classroom. We are going to start a few studies, clean up the classroom, and this afternoon put away Christmas stuff then clean up the house.
We have been gone for 5 days visiting friends we have been estranged from for almost a year. It was a good visit. We have missed their friendship and plan on continuing it.
In saying that, I have 5 days of laundry, 5 days of cleaning, 5 days of everything. I usually do at least one load of laundry a day.
So I am ready for a busy day! School first in a few minutes.
A new year, a new month, a new week, a new day, a new hour, a new minute! Going to make the best of the time.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Just some of my thoughts and actions,
Elizabeth
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