Today is Red-Envelope Day... I sent 3!

The Story...

Below is a letter that has been circulating with a great idea. The message began in silent prayer from a faithful follower who was spending quiet time with God.

Dear Friends and Intercessors:
This afternoon I was praying about a number of things, and my mind began to wander. I was deeply distressed at the symbolic actions that President Obama took as he began his presidency. Namely, that he signed executive orders releasing funds to pay for abortions, permission to fund human stem cell research, and federal funding for contraception. I have been involved in the pro-life movement for nearly 20 years, and it pained my heart to see a man and a political party committed to the shedding of innocent blood. This man, and this party lead our country, but they do not represent me or the 54% of Americans who believe that abortion is wrong and should no longer be legal.
As I was praying, I believe that God gave me an interesting idea. Out in the garage I have a box of red envelopes.
Like the powerful image of the red LIFE tape, an empty red envelope will send a message to Barack Obama that there is moral outrage in this country over this issue. It will be quiet, but clear.

Here is what I would like you to do:
Get a red envelope. You can buy them at Kinkos, or at party supply stores. On the front, address it to:

DON'T FORGET YOUR RETURN ADDRESS. THEY WON'T BE DELIVERED WITHOUT IT.
President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20500

On the back, write the following message.
This envelope represents one child who died in an abortion. It is empty because that life was unable to offer anything to the world. Responsibility begins with conception.

Put it in the mail on March 31st, and send it. Then send this website to every one of your friends who you think would send one too. I wish we could send 50 million red envelopes, one for every child who died before having a a chance to live. Maybe it will change the heart of the president.
Warmly, Christ Otto
Let's Send 50 Million red envelopes (and Counting) to the President!

I won a planner!!

Hey there!!

Did you participate in the Ultimate Blog Party? I tried my hardest on the last day and got to visit some really special blogs. (Most are now in my google reader.)

But, what is awesome is I won something!!! Storm over at 365 Days of Organization sponsored this give-o-way and I will receive a planner. How neat is that?

Spring Photo Contest

Here's what Spring looks like in Texas!



Visit Lisa Berry and join her Spring Photo contest Now! :)

<br /><!-- maineberrypatch.blogspot.com banner link start --><br /><br><br><br /><a href="http://maineberrypatch.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> <br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i472.photobucket.com/albums/rr86/berrypatch29/spring.jpg" alt="Spring Where You Are" border="0"> </a><br /><br /><br /><br /><!-- end maineberrypatch.blogspot.com banner link --><br /><br />

Simple Woman's Daybook

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FOR TODAY Tuesday, March 24th...

Outside my window... It is threatening to rain. I hope it does. My head hurts and this would just a be a peaceful ending to the day.

I am thinking... my list keeps getting longer. But, I am continuing to keep a list. I don't always get things marked off of it, but I am trying!

I am thankful for... good doctors. Okay, I am *not* telling you this, but we have started the fertility process again. So, please don't ask how's it going. It's a roller-coaster of a month with at least 5 dr visits and more needle sticks than I'd care to envision. But, I am thankful that we've found a dr that has listened to my dietary and nutritional healing approach and has brought up other areas for me to research. It is quite comforting. Stay tuned.

From the learning rooms... I think I'm not doing well in this area. Except for learning some on CSS (website building junk). Take a look at Cryin' Coyote Ranch. I did some neat effects of what David says is my scrapbooking coming out online. Take a look, and let me know what you think (events and golf cart page so far).


From the kitchen... Oh yumm.. Well, we went to David's mom's last weekend and she made her famous Hamburger stew. I had forgotten about this gem of a recipe and dug it out for this upcoming month of menus. Thanks Mom! She also made a cake called "Tailgate Cake". It involves putting a can of frosting in with the cake batter, and cooking it all together. Interesting huh? Well, it is one of the moistest cakes I have ever had. I even had seconds. (hanging head low)

David has been grilling at least twice a week lately. For Christmas he received a new set of wood handled grilling accessories. He has been putting them to good use! :) I usually have him grill at least twice the amount we normally eat at dinner. Smart huh?

I am wearing... jeans, dk grey shirt, fly-lady shoes!

I am creating... websites. I wish I could say more. But, I can't.

I am going... to continue to get organized and on top of my time management skills!

I am reading... Cape Refuge by Terri Blackstock. STILL

I am hoping... that my sister lets me back into her life again soon.

I am hearing... Sky Angel radio. If you haven't heard of Sky Angel and their ALL Christian line-up, go take a look. Kirk Franklin- My Life, My Love, My All.

Around the house... Still alot of clutter going on..

One of my favorite things... taking care of David. It really can be a chore, but in the end, it is nice to see him smile at a clean house, clean clothes, and a clean me!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Hang outdoor bird feeders and put out assorted other outdoor things. Finish Cryin Coyote Ranch's changes, make a pie for David's work, declutter upstairs, get more bloodwork done..

Here is picture thought I am sharing...



Spring Break - Camping


From: The Simple Woman's Day Book http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Simple Woman's Daybook

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FOR TODAY Friday, February 20th...

Outside my window... It is cool and sunny. It would be a perfect day to go biking. EXCEPT, I sprained my ankle yesterday. It isn't even a good story of the accident. I just misjudged the curb and slipped off of it.

I am thinking... about how to clean up the house now that I am laid up in bed. Geeze, could it be any crazier around here?? I suppose I could have done this before the wedding blitz. I just ordered a cleaning service to come out tomorrow morning before the big meeting with 2 websites at noon. Goodness.

I am thankful for... forgiveness. I really hurt my sister's feelings last week. You see, it was her birthday, Valentine's Day, and Sally's wedding all in one. I got my priorities messed up and put her at the end of the day. You also have to see that my brothers and sister play a game of being the first to call. I try to win with a vengeance. She knows this, and therefore I hurt her. I didn't mean to, and I didn't forget her, she just got pushed to 11:38pm. Too close to call. And, I can understand that. How would you like to share your birthday with everyone on the planet? My sister will probably never read this, but I am sorry, Beka.

From the learning rooms... We got home late Monday night this week. On Tuesday, I broke out my "almost FLYlady" timer and went to work. I spent 15 minutes in each room de-cluttering. I forgot how much I could get done with that timer. If you haven't tried Flylady.net, you should. I don't use all her methods for home organization, I might one day. Maybe I'll post another post and brag on the system. maybe. :)


From the kitchen... not much happening here since the fall. Since I do all the shopping and cooking and the fact that we've been traveling all over the US for the past 2 weeks, it just hasn't gotten done. So, I send my sweet husband down to the kitchen and can only direct him to the few remaining items in there. It's sad really. So, for 3 meals now I have had deli sliced turkey and mozzarella sticks with hummus. Sad isn't it?

We did score big during the wedding though. We stopped by a ultra-big H-E-B grocery store in Austin. We picked up a oven roasted turkey breast, fresh spring herb lettuce mix, fresh pesto, sliced munster cheese, olives and fresh grape tomatoes. I made a salad from those ingredients that was out-of-this-world yummy. I also picked up some cooked sushi that we saved for wedding day craziness. With the hotel-sized refrigerator we saved lots of money by eating in.

I am wearing... a pink long-sleeved shirt and my cute grey and pink pajama pants with one sock on.

I am creating... this blog. David brought me the laptop just minutes ago and I'm already here! I did learn how to make big fluffy bows on the way to the wedding. I created over 10 in the 3 hour drive. Nice huh?

I am going... to stay off my foot and let it heal properly!

I am reading... Cape Refuge by Terri Blackstock.

I am hoping... to obviously to heal quickly.

I am hearing... Sky Angel radio. If you haven't heard of Sky Angel and their ALL christian line-up, go take a look.

Around the house... wedding clutter, travel clutter, life clutter.. blah blah

One of my favorite things... being a part of someone's big day. I was so blessed to be there for Sally and Brad. It was so nice to be able to bless them with my talents at decorating! If I find my camera, I will post pics.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Rest, take it easy, plan a shopping trip for David. We need food.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...


Photo by Dave McLaughlin

I created this beautiful head tablescape!


From: The Simple Woman's Day Book http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Weddings galore

Hey all!

We are almost home after a 12 day trip around a 5 state distance and 2 weddings!!

It has been such a crazy mess with the saddest thing happening. Our camera walked off. I am hoping it turns up somewhere. Which leads me to post this link for Found Cameras. I hope that the person who found my camera will at least send me the sim card. I have 2 weddings and friends and family on there from the past 2 weeks.

Heavy sigh,
Christa

Tippy Tuesday

Vanilla Powder - Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Powder

I found a new grocery store. It's been here all along, and many people have suggested it and now I am hooked.

Central Market near the Galleria in Houston sent me 3 awesome "Welcome to the Neighborhood" coupons. I went there with low expectations, but WOW, I was amazed. The store is a combination high end food store, gourmet store, deli, farmers market, wine store, and regular grocery store. Amazing.

Anyways, back to Tippy Tuesdays! I picked up at this store some Vanilla Powder. It is dried Vanilla extract that you can use one to one for the liquid version. That didn't catch my eye, what did was the ability to sprinkle it over coffee or fruit. I have been sprinkling for days now, and tonight I hit the Jackpot! I opened a can of peaches in pear juice, put 2 tbs of heavy cream on top, and then sprinkled away with the powder. Oh my goodness, it takes my taste buds away.

I definitely recommend it. I will post a picture of the powder and a link if I find one. :)

Fun fun, Christa

Simple woman's daybook

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FOR TODAY Tuesday, February 3rd...

Outside my window... It is clear and sunny with a brisk chill in the air. The sun is beginning to shine on the other side of the house. I am in awe of the way God created this earth to cool and warm and regulate itself.

I am thinking... about my resolution to memorize 2 scriptures a month. I succeeded in one last month. (hanging head) I am doing better already this month. I wrote James 1:5 down on a sticky note. I see "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault and it will be given to him" on my desk every day 20 times or so. It is working! I do plan to buy the index cards TODAY and create the system as Beth Moore prescribes!

I am thankful for... my husband's job. Although it is very stressful for him and takes a lot of his valuable time, it is paying bills and keeping us afloat. We are busy as ever with our home business as well. This is taking much out of me. It is hard to give up the small amount of free time we have and devote it to the business. I am praying for a resolution in this area.

From the learning rooms... I am trying to learn to be more strict with my time budgeting. I should get more done at home while David is at work. I plan on buying a timer today. It will definitely help in the "with 15 minutes I can do anything" projects!

From the kitchen... oh oh oh, I created a fresh mozzarella with basil and tomatoes salad the other night, oh yummmmm. I also bought some Greek dolmas (rice stuffed grape leaves) in a can. (Crazy I know). I made falafels from a box and tatziki sauce from scratch. I served it with fresh tomatoes and black olives. It was a very delightful Greek feast with plenty of left overs!

I am wearing... my Flylady gear: Tennis shoes, jeans, long sleeved shirt, and sweater pull-over.

I am creating... wedding stuff: White mailbox for cards with red roses, ring pillow, flower girl basket, wedding bows (maybe).

I am going... to Target, dry cleaners, mailbox, BETH MOORE Bible study!

I am reading... webmaster books, mostly on html and css.

I am hoping... for a great time in the next two weeks with the upcoming two weddings. I am excited about both. It is just taking much out of me.

I am hearing... traffic outside, barely.

Around the house... I bought these uplights for behind my plants. I think they are one of the best $15 investments I have made for decorating. I love what drama they add to the room.

One of my favorite things... coffee and Taco Cabana.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Pack like a mad woman, clean house for the trip, leave for the 16 hour trip to Georgia, get a haircut in Georgia, go out to dinner/lunch 5 times with different friends, attend neice's wedding, go to the Robins AFB Chapel Valentine's banquet, visit with David's grandmother who's had another stroke, and take the new bikes so we can fit in exercise somewhere in this list!

Here is picture thought I am sharing...


Weddings















From: The Simple Woman's Day Book http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

A great movie - Fireproof

We saw this and recommend it to ANY and EVERY married couple out there. It is such an amazing movie with such an amazing message. You NEED to get the movie and the book.

See a review and enter the contest here:

February Bike Log

Here's our Biking Log for February 2009:

Day:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7. Wedding - Georgia
8. 7 miles - 50 minutes (Georgia)
9.
10.
11.
12. Wedding Fun - Austin
13. Wedding Fun - Austin
14. Wedding Fun - Austin
15. Wedding Fun - Austin
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.


Totals:
minutes: 50 miles: 7

Give-o-ways!

Hey Everyone!

Check out Simple Mom, she has a slew of give-o-ways this week!! Go over there quickly they expire soon!

Monday's Month of meals
Tuesday's Potty training book
Wednesday's Unique Baby Gift
Thursday's Outdoor Exploration

Friday's Patchwork Apron

New Bikes!!!

David and I have budgeted, saved and searched every online and physical store in the greater Houston area. We have finally, after six months, found bicycles. They are beautiful and now you can see them too. It was cold and rainy when we picked them up, so we don't have outside pics yet!



Specs:
His and Hers GT Transeo 1.0 Comfort/Hybrids from Performance Bikes on Voss and Westheimer Rd.

We upgraded and installed the following on each bike:
Disc brakes
E3 Cycling FX10 Cycle Computer (that's so we'll know how fast we're going!)
Todson Spotlite and tail light set
Waterbottle cage and new BPA-free "Safe Plastic" water bottles

I've also started a bike log and will update the results as we ride. We plan to take the bikes on a trip to Georgia next month and should get quite a few miles in at the State Parks along the way!

NuxieMade Hat Give-Away!! (closes Jan. 16)

Found a beautiful handmade hat maker on the web:
She's giving away a hat too!!

Visit her here: ...NuxieMade...: NuxieMade Hat Give-Away!! (closes Jan. 16)

January Bike Log

Here's our Biking Log for January 2009:

Day:
1. 20 min (1.5 miles)
2. -
3. 60 min (4.5 miles)
4. 20 min (2.7 miles) * new bikes with max speed 18mph
5. - (rain)
6. -
7. 47 min (7.4 miles)
8. -
9. -
10. 90 min (10 miles!)
11. -
12. 49 min (6 miles)
13. -
14. -
15. -
16. 42 min (6.7 miles)
17.
18. 40 min (6 miles) David alone
19.

20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27. 90 min (14 miles)
28.
29.
30.
31. 55 min (7 miles)

January Totals:
326 minutes 59.8 miles

New Year - New Schedule

:D

Happy New Years!

I have joined with Beth Moore in dedicating myself to memorize 2 scriptures a month for 2009!

Here's my first passage to start off the year!

Proverbs 2:1-6 (NLT)
1 My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands.
2 Tune your ears to wisdom,and concentrate on understanding.
3 Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding.
4 Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures.
5 Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God.
6 For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

It's not a normal New Years Resolution, but I think it fits.

Merry Christmas Y'all!!

I hope everyone's Christmas is wonderful and bright with God's Love!

I have spent the past week getting presents together, wrapped and sorted.
We baked for 4 days straight! This allowed me to make a goodie basket for David's workmates!

Christmas can be such a stressful holiday, please stop for a moment and remember the reason for the season!

Lots of love from the Killingsworth's!

Tuesday Tackle!

I found this idea over at Mom Of 3 Girls

So, here goes the well known Christmas Carol to the list that ever groweth for me.


On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me (to tackle!):

Twelve (times 8) Christmas cards to get out, today!

Eleven more gifts to buy…

Ten holiday baked goods to make…

Nine shopping days left…

Eight errands to run…

Seven candles to "light" for the windows (I'm still looking for batteries)…

Six more hours of crockpotting…

Five minutes for golden naps…

Four gifts to make or remake…

Three loads of laundry to do…

Two dinners to plan…

And one lovely husband to love on!

What are you tackling this week? And check out other Tackle It Tuesday posts over at 5 Minutes for Mom!

I won tickets to a Christmas Jazz Concert!

How fun is that??

David and I will be getting dressed up and heading out this evening to the Cullen Theater, Wortham Theater Center in downtown Houston. We will be seeing Cyrus Chestnut play his beautiful piano!

It is so nice to be blessed!

Simple woman's daybook

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FOR TODAY Tuesday, December 9th...

Outside my window... It is very windy. We have a massive cold front coming in. So, it is dark with bits of rain. I can't sleep, so I blog!

I am thinking... about all the prayers on my list. I don't make it through the list as a whole very often. I hate that. I want to be a prayer warrior, but I fall way short.

I am thankful for... Computers that work. I have been very slow to get my workstation up to where it needs to be. It is rather tiring finding another application that doesn't work, ie the sound today.

From the learning rooms... I am continuing to be a flybaby with FlyLady.net. She rocks and is keeping my holidays less stressful and more meaningful.

From the kitchen... David brought home fresh goat today. He also brought two recipes for them too. I will be getting the supplies tomorrow. We grilled chix tonight and I sautéed garlic to go with the Brussels sprouts. yumm

I am wearing... David's undershirt..

I am creating... many Christmas treats.. banana bread tomorrow.

I am going... to wake up on time and be cheerful in the morning, although it is 1115 now!

I am reading... The Spider Catcher by Gilbert Morris.. I like it

I am hoping... Life stays as calm as it is now.

I am hearing... the wind outside.

Around the house... Tried a new cleaning tip for sour drains. Pour baking soda down the drain, follow with vinegar and let foam and sit for 10 minutes. Follow with hot water for 1 min then cold for another min. It really works well on my garbage disposal.

One of my favorite things... logic puzzles.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Go see Debra Duncan on "Great Day Houston" taping tomorrow. Hopefully, win tickets to see A Cyrus Chestnut Christmas at the Wortham Center on Friday.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...


Spiral Aloe















From: The Simple Woman's Day Book http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

I had the best Birthday Weekend Ever!

I had to post about this because it means so much to me.

First off, I received some beautiful pearl earrings, a bottle of perfume (a first for me), a candle, a butter dish, and a country plaque that states "Forever For Always and No Matter What"



(Picture from the Christmas Parade and also Marriott.com)

But what made my birthday great was that we went to San Antonio and spent 2 days on the River Walk.. it was so relaxing after a crazy Thanksgiving dinner at my house. We spent it with friends, and so breakfast/lunch/dinner was MY BIRTHDAY out and about.. I usually get forgotten on my birthday.. so it was grand!!

I've been tagged

Lisa-Anne over at The Berry Patch at Home tagged me with this fun little Bookworm Award.

Here are the rules:

Pass this on to 5 blogging friends. Open the closest book to you, not your favorite or most intellectual book, but the book closest to you at the moment, to page 56. Write the 5th sentence, as well as two to five sentences following that.

"And Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain." ~from God's Promises Bible NKJV

Now to the fun part...I tag....

Sally at The Hollavar Wedsite

Enjoy!

Thanksgiving 2008

Oh the fun of Thanksgiving! Well, this year we hosted it at our house. We had a table set for 10 with 13 on the guest list. It worked out that only 10 people came.

Our guest list:
My mom and dad, sister and her boyfriend and 2 kiddos, my youngest brother, and David's mom.

Our menu:
Cajun Butter Fried turkey, gluten free stuffing/dressing*, gravy*, steamed lemon broccoli, pecan sweet potatoes*, Aaron's famous mashed potatoes, Mom's cranberry sauce, jellied cranberry sauce, fruit salad w/o nuts, black olives, and rolls. (* new recipe for me)


*thanks Aaron for taking pictures of the pre-Thanksgiving table!

We had a great time, although it was very stressful for me. It's a lot of cooking, prepping, cleaning and general fussing. It is worth it though. I couldn't have done it without my dear husband, my dad, my mom, and my brother's help. I would have been a very crazy mess without their help leading up to the big day. THANKS GUYS!

I made ornaments for the 6th year to be used as the placecards. In return I asked for an ornament for my tree. When I get my permissions right, I'll upload the pics of the new ornaments and the ones I made this year. Which leads me to compose another post about Christmas ornaments past.. :)

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, here are the things I am thankful for (in no particular order) :
Family
A great husband
Time to indulge in crafts
Beautiful art
A wonderful niece and nephew
Cooler days in Houston
The ability to get together with other Christians when and where we want..

Fun and Easy - About Meme

I was reading Lisa-Anne's blog and found this little "things you have done in your life" check list. Feel free to grab this to do on your own blog. If you don't have one, feel free to grab it to do via e-mail. Have fun!

Anyway, this is really simple, but fun and revealing. You just highlight the things you've done in your life. Mine are in bold.

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea (from the beach)
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check**opps!
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee

Tag - I'm it!

Okay, I have un-officially been tagged. So, here goes! I'm responding to the tag I received today from Lisa-Anne over at The Berry Patch.

Here are the rules...
1. Post the rules on your blog.
2. Write 6 random things about yourself
3. Tag 6 people at the end of your post (or however many you want)
4. If you are tagged, just do it, and pass the tag along!!

1. I collected postage stamps. I think this is why I send out over 70 Christmas cards. I am hoping that I get some really cool stamps on the 25ish cards I receive back!

2. I really dig Jazz music. Most days you can find my new XMradio/mp3 player set to the cool "Watercolor" channel. In 8th grade my good friend Sally and I wanted to join the new and upcoming Jazz Band. Our musical director didn't quite warm up to the idea, saying that flutes are not an instrument used in Jazz music. Bummer!

3. My sister's youngest boy is severely Autistic, he is now 6 years old and still has no vocabulary. Beka, my sister, has gone gluten and lactose free in his diet. This has done amazing things in Justin. It has taken almost a year to see the changes in him though. I could go on, but alas, this post has to end one day.

4. My two favorite flower scents are Jasmine and Stargazer Lily.

5. (For my scrapbook friends) I have only completed ONE (1) album in the 8 years I have been scrapping. I know this is incredible to imagine, but it's true!

6. My dh and I only have one car. It makes us have to coordinate schedules and work with each others appointments. I work at home, so this makes it easier to do. But, none-the-less it definitely takes work! :)


I'm actually going to tag ANYONE who reads this here. Consider yourself tagged and post on your own blog, please.

The Simple Daybook

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FOR TODAY Wednesday, November 12th...

Outside my window... It is cloudy today. But nothing like the torrential rains of earlier this week. I am not sure what the actual rain fall inches were, but it was a massive amount of rain over 3 days. I was able to watch the storms come in over downtown Houston. The big huge skyscrapers were engulfed by clouds, rain and lightning. They would disappear for brief periods of time reminding me of the brief time period we are actually on this earth.

I am thinking... about how fragile life is. It has been a very emotional week for me. Storms still have a way of hurting my brain. I am praying that they won't take my breath away and that I can stay positive in the future. It is really hard especially due to the emotional and economic future of our country. I am thinking come quickly Lord.

I am thankful for... friends who light up my life. I have very few close friends. Those relationships mean the world to me. They keep me grounded. They give me reason to look at the bright side and reasons to laugh. I love that God has given me a heart for them and their families.

From the learning rooms... I have begun actively learning things in the digital arts area. There are many things to explore and I plan to share my new "art" with this blog. (The top logo of the marigold is one of my favorite creations!)

From the kitchen... Oh I have to brag!! I subscribe to www.menus4moms.com and in the past had used their menus in our budgeting and cooking schema. Well, I just got back on track and used an archived menu from 2006. I created her AWESOME bolognese (spaghetti) sauce last night. The recipe makes a ton of it for freezing and I had the best lunch with it today. I also created the Gooey Butter Cake with Mabelle's creative changes and some Cranberry Peach bread. Yummm.. My kitchen was hot, hot, hot!!!

I am wearing... my PWOC Spring Retreat shirt from last year. I love it because it is a polo style shirt that is feminine. I've got my trusty jeans and tennis shoes on so my brain knows it is time to work.

I am creating... a loving environment for my family.

I am going... to take more and more things off my list! (Like trying to find 3 more people to send this informal book club invite thing to!!)

I am reading... blogs, blogs, and more blogs.

I am hoping... to find a Christmas tree. I have printed off my 40% off coupon from Hobby Lobby and clipped the ad for the Houston Gardens Christmas tree lot. David and I are at odds about fresh vs fake, money vs savings, trashing vs storing. We will figure something out THIS WEEKEND.

I am hearing... Sean Hannity on the XM radio.

Around the house... I received a great black and white picture for my black and white wall. Now I have "Friends" up there. Thanks Sally!

One of my favorite things... Instant messaging and email. I get so much done without long conversations. I love keeping up with all of you gals.

A few plans for the rest of the week: "Let's see Brain. How about we take over the world?"

Here is picture thought I am sharing... Even though it's hard (or cold in this case), get into the water..


From: The Simple Woman's Day Book http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

About me .. Accents

I found this over at an old friend's place - The Berry Patch. I was surprised to see my results matched what the airport and taxi people from Philadelphia said!! :) Enjoy the quiz if you dare!

What American accent do you have? Your Result: The Midland   "You have a Midland accent" is just another way of saying "you don't have an accent." You probably are from the Midland (Pennsylvania, southern Ohio, southern Indiana, southern Illinois, and Missouri) but then for all we know you could be from Florida or Charleston or one of those big southern cities like Atlanta or Dallas. You have a good voice for TV and radio.
The South
The Inland North
The Northeast
Philadelphia
The West
Boston
North Central
What American accent do you have? Quiz Created on GoToQuiz

Another post about me ..

Outside my Window... it is bright and sunny fall day..

I am thinking... I am tired of being tired with too much to do..

From the kitchen... our favorite is chicken salad, it's easy and keeps well. :)

I am wearing... jeans and a black t-shirt.. I know that Stacy and Clinton would be upset!

I am creating... digital art with digital camera pics that we have stored for years..

I am reading... Gilbert Morris "Catching a Spider", set in 1900's London

I am hoping... for David to be happy and energetic with work stuff

I am hearing... Gospel music from our new XM Radio that we've plugged into the house speakers.. David you ROCK!

Around the house... a huge mess but our new place is spacious and inviting. I just need to do a "home blessing hour" on it at the moment.

Today is Saturday, so I should be able to get the house to a presentable state. :)

Wedding Bells

My really good friend Sally.. (actually I would say she's my best friend) has
asked me to be her matron of honor at her upcoming wedding. I can't say how honored that makes me feel. She's even letting me pick my own dress!! I just love her!

Well, here are my top choices from David's Bridal:

Thanksgiving 2008

Thanksgiving will be held at my house this year. So, I'm getting my recipes together. I found this one for Pumpkin Spice Lattes over at A Year of Crockpot Cooking... Are you excited?


The Ingredients.
adapted from Taste of Home's Halloween 2008 edition

--2 cups milk (I used 1%)
--2 T canned pumpkin
--2 T white sugar
--2 T vanilla (not a typo. it asks for tablespoons)
--1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
OR: 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/8 tsp cloves, 1/8 tsp nutmeg, and a teeny tiny pinch of ground ginger
--1/2 cup brewed espresso or 3/4 cup strong brewed coffee

--garnish with whipped cream (optional)

The Directions.

This will make enough for 2 people to have a big mug with a bit leftover. If you are having friends over, adjust the recipe accordingly. I used a 4-quart crockpot, but as small as a 1.5 quart will work with these amounts.

Add the coffee/espresso and milk to the crockpot. Whisk in the pumpkin, spices, sugar, and vanilla.

Cover and cook on high for 2 hours if everything is cold. Whisk again.

Ladle into mugs, and garnish with whipped cream and additional cinnamon. I added a cinnamon stick to be fancy.

About me .. Books

Got this from the MacDonald Clan!

Hardback or trade paperback or mass market paperback?

I really like any.. just to have a complete set is nice!

Bookmark or dog-ear?

Bookmark.. As I collect new bookmarks, I place them in books I haven't read yet. It helps me use up the pretty gifts people give us.

Alphabetize by author or alphabetize by title or random?

Random really. I have all my Christian fiction together and the non-fiction together as well. The other books are mostly non-fiction and on David's shelves by subject.

Keep, throw away or sell?

It really depends. I am a big keeper, but I am trying to get to only keeping my favorite authors.

Keep dust jacket or toss it?

I keep them on usually, unless it is a favorite book author.

Last book you bought?

Three by Ted Dekker.

Last book someone bought for you?

Believing God by Beth Moore.

What are some of the books on your to-buy list?

Ted Dekker, anything by him!

Collection (short stories, same author) or anthology (short stories, different authors)?

Nah

Morning reading, afternoon reading, or nighttime reading?

Mostly at night.

The books you need to go with other books on your shelves?

Ted Dekker's most of his series

Do you read anywhere and anytime you can or do you have a set reading time and/or place?

Usually home...and at night.

Do you have seasonal reading habits?

Nope.

Do you read one book at a time or do you have two or more books going at once?

One book at a time, I can only handle so many plots at one time.

What are your pet peeves about the way people treat books?

I don't mind much.. but really don't like to think about the unknown stains..

Name one book you surprised yourself by liking.

The Potluck Club by Linda Evans Shepherd

How often do you read a book and not review it on your blog? What are your reasons for not blogging about a book?

I don't review books on my blog.

Gettin' back on track

Here I am.. we have moved and I am finally getting settled in H-town.

Life is crazy but, I hope to get back on track with posts.

-- Christa.

Ma'dam President.

Yes, that is right. I have joined the ranks of PWOC local presidents from all over the world. God is good.

All the time, should be your response. :)

Robins AFB has done wonders for us. We are currently holding almost every known volunteer position available at the chapel. Ok, I'm kidding. But, we are very full on the "activities" schedule.

I was interviewed on May 9th, and installed as president of the local chapter on May 11th. It has been a whirlwind of a month. But, again I say, "God is good!".

The new board and I went to a leadership conference last weekend in Franklin, TN. That was nice. It was a very good time to connect with the new ladies. I can tell you, it has been very nice being president after being vice president last year. I *really* understand the ins and outs of the budget, I also understand what programs we have lined up throughout the year. It will be nice.

David and I will be chaperoning the PYOC to Atlantafest next weekend. We are looking forward to it. It should be nice because it is 2 nights of Christian bands. I really hope that we don't over do ourselves.

I started a job last Tuesday, to add to the mess. I am working with Toni's husband. Or should I say, "I am working FOR Toni's husband?" I am in the part's dept at a Canon copier dealer/retailer/repairer. It is not a very fun job. But, it is a job. ;)

I know there is LOTS to chat about, but I am exhausted as usual.

PWOC -Weekends

April Craft Day

April Program

Spring Retreat

PWOC Sunday

Fun.. :) Do I have enough of it?

Here's something I found on the Internet.. (imagine that!) I think Felisha would get a kick of
this too!

My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is: Very Lady Christa the Perplexed of Much Leering Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title

Found this on the Internet ..

From a fellow blogger.. (Imagine that..)

Card Generator

I think I will use this for scrapbooking in upcoming layouts. I think it is "Way too cool" too Suzanne!

Photography Challenges

I found this over at http://photographychallenge.blogspot.com/
Photography Challenge Calendar for 2007

~Week 1 Free for All
~Week 2 Introduction of yourself to the Peas
~Week 3 Show us your Hometown
~Week 4 Water
~Week 5 Sports (anything related, teams, players, equipment, etc,)
~Week 6 Botanical
~Week 7 ONE object shot at 5 different angels/distances
~Week 8 One for the road (signs, streets, traffic, etc.)
~Week 9 Objects that tell something about you
***Week 10 Things that make your life easier ***
Week 11 Your favorite color
Week 12 Household items
Week 13 Foods
Week 14 Something Slimy
Week 15 Sun (sunlight, sunset, sunrise, etc)
Week 16 Emotions
Week 17 Something old
Week 18 What you do outside the world of photography
Week 19 Weather
Week 20 Emotional attachment (heirloom/special gift, ect.)
Week 21 Pets
Week 22 Things you couldn't live without
Week 23 Habits
Week 24 Fire (candle, fireplace, etc.)
Week 25 Scrapbooking (stash, room, lo's, etc)
Week 26 Textures
Week 27 Hands
Week 28 Shoes
Week 29 Favorite Jewerly
Week 30 Generations
Week 31 Hot
Week 32 Fill the Frame (close ups)
Week 33 A week in our lives
Week 34 Faith (what you believe)
Week 35 Dance (body in motion)
Week 36 Family & Friends
Week 37 SOOC...from that to this...before & afters
Week 38 Patriotic
Week 39 Object: straight up shots and then straight down shots
Week 40 Nighttime
Week 41 Something that gives you the feeling of warmth or cold
Week 42 Pictures of words
Week 43 Chores I hate
Week 44 Animals
Week 45 Music
Week 46 Reflections/Shadows
Week 47 Flowers
Week 48 Sleep
Week 49 Action Shots
Week 50 Wheels
Week 51 Wrapping (gifts, baby, foods, etc.)
Week 52 Guilty pleasures


And, now "IT'S ON!!"

PWOC - Sabbath Dinner

Well, We are up to it again.

This month we will be working with PMOC (the Men of the chapel) and invited Rabbi Warren Frankel to speak. We are excited because he is a Messianic Jewish Teacher. We will be sharing the Sabbath meal with him. It will be different for us (the women), but exciting none-the-less.

We will also be doing a short Saturday service too. Although we have had issues with the actual setting for the presentation on Saturday, we will be going head strong. :)

I will *WILL* post pictures next week.

Only FIVE, 5, five, F*I*V*E more programs for PWOC and me!!!!!

The Amazing Mind.. (just some fun)

Don't even think about using spell check!!!!!!!!
fi yuo cna raed tihs, yuo hvae a sgtrane mnid too. Cna
yuo raed tihs? Olny 55 plepoe out of 100 can.

i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd
waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan
mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde
Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the
ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is
taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae.
The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it
whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos
not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a
wlohe. Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling
was ipmorantt! 

Goin' a' visitin'

We will be heading to MS to visit with dad this weekend. We also will be working on the house.. and and and..

David's grandmother (Oma) will be having surgery this weekend too. So, we will get to visit with her.

:) God is good. All the time. I just need to remember that.

Christa

Update: We were able to see Oma on Monday before we headed home. The doctors found cancer in her right lung and a few lymph nodes. They removed 1/3 of her total lungs and some of the lining and lymph nodes. She looked really good. Her long time friend, Mary, was there helping keep watch over her. We are *SO* incredibly thankful that Mary is there to help keep us updated while she's in the hospital. We stayed for about an hour, while we fought with her over dinner. (She is still as stubborn as ever, refusing to eat, and sent most of her food home to the cats).

Workin' the plan

First Place
Biblical Weight Loss - It's working for me!!

I'm sure I will post more on it later. For now here's a goal pic I've got on my desktop to help "inspire" me to get on the treadmill. :)










Graduation - May 2005 (30 lbs ago!)

Helping out friends

Kim announced last month that she was closing her store down (she's a military wife and her husband deployed. In order to be able to spend more time with her 3 boys, she is also leaving a full-time job).

The store is called In My Mind's Eye, and the link is http://www.inmymindseyeonline.com. Currently all merchandise is 40% off.

Thanks for visiting her site and helping in any way you can. (Early Christmas gifts ;) )

I feel so small

I have failed at my job as program person.
On 27 Dec 06 I provided Ch. Kim, Felisha and Ch. Page with a detailed plan for the weekend of 9-10March. I also produced a facility request for those days after receiving confirmation from the chaplain advisor and our speaker. What I failed to do was follow up with the CA's on that request. Yesterday I spoke with Sherene Fenton and
found out that the paperwork has been lost and therefore not approved or available.

The problem: AFRC has the Annex and all classrooms on Saturday 10March from 0700-1300, the same times we would need the Annex for breakfast and then childcare. We put in the announcements for this Sunday's bulletin for the special Saturday program, including childcare.

Possible solution: If the sanctuary is available, we could have Rabbi Frankel speak in there. Instead of Clyde's big breakfast, we could do a continental spread of danishes, fruit, coffee, and juice possibly outside in a tent. Childcare, if the weather was decent (or heated tents) could be outside in those tents as well.

So far I have actually spoken with David (fix it man) who talked about the "chain of command" etc etc. I have also spoken with Felisha, who says this is not out of the ordinary for our chapel.

It just hurts to have messed up. Knowing that I have much more work ahead of me makes it worse. Why me?! Why God?!

UPDATE: We will be having our program in the Sanctuary at the chapel. We have cut it down to only 2 hours, and no food, which is VERY out of the ordinary for our church group.

PWOC and Me!

Well, let's see. We just had our February montly program at the chapel last Friday. It was good as usual.

I ended up in the nursery/kids room with our Childcare chair, Linda. She had 6 little ones to herself. So, when the announcments started I helped her get through the "bathroom" break and chose to stay and help her out.

The room was mostly chaos, but we made it through the night singing "ABC's" and "Frosty the Snowman!" We read some, colored some, and kept the peace some!

Our speaker was Ginger Taylor. She is an old friend of Charlene's. She is a very powerful, insightful speaker. I just love the affect she has on our ladies. They just fall to pieces when she speaks. Our theme was "Stand by Your Man" (Jesus). The room was decked out in a pink wedding style. I even ordered a wedding cake from a local bakery. It was beautiful.

I'm counting down the next programs. Here they are listed:
March Craft Day and Program
April Program
April Spring Retreat
April PWOC Sunday - involves a large reception
May Craft Day
May Program - Should be installing new board members!!

Time..

OH I wish I had more time.

Especially to update this blog for my friends and family.

I have had a whirl-wind month, and it isn't stopping now.

Past:
Trip to Mississippi
Seperate trip to Texas
Server went down for a weekend, and LOST all the information on it :(.
Hospitality chair flaking out on me.

Present:
Valentine's Banquet on the 3rd of February
involves- 14 women decorating tables, the Officer's Club, cakes, food, etc!
Lists, lists, lists!
Need to scan in items for friend who is job hunting.

Future:
PWOC monthly programs - need to figure out what in the world I am doing!

ACK! I don't know what I am doing..
Hopefully, Maybe, I'll get good pictures of the banquet, should be fun, say the least!

2006 Christmas Trip

After a change in plans moved us up a few days, we have landed in Pascagoula, MS for the beginning of the new year. This trip has been very eventful. We have seen new clients, old clients, family, and new and old friends. God is Good! (repeat with me, "All the time!")



David and I helped my dad work on the house in Pascagoula the past 2 days. We were able to put down some sub-flooring, sheetrock on walls and ceilings, and today we should be rearranging kitchen cabinets. It is nice to finally see the house becoming more livable.

Well, Happy New Years to all! We will be down in this area for the next couple of days.

;) ttyl.

Christmas 2006

David and I had an excellent Christmas.

First, we did Christmas Eve services at the Chapel. That was fun. We read a passage of scripture together for part of the service. I also did sign language to "Silent Night". That was fun, until the choir got lost and so did I!!!

We opened presents on Christmas Morning. David got me 2 wall sconces, I'll put a picture up one day. They are absolutely beautiful!

I got David a shirt and tie set, sweater, a pillow/warmer for the back of his chair, and a WinTV PVR device. More on that later.

We went to Christmas Dinner over at Rachel and Michael Coggins house. She fixed a huge spread and we ate ourselves silly. Rachel gave us a nativty set. I just love it.

We came home and finally put holes in the walls. David and I gathered all the pictures, frames, wall art we had and finally put things onto the wall. We had fun and finished the living room. I'll take pictures of that too. :)

Ok, I'm off to make lunch..

Christmas Wish List 2006

Me:
Windchimes
Birdhouses
Flowers, Bulbs
Stationary
Waterford
Lenox
Department 56
Gourmet Cooking Items
How-To Draw Books
Candle warmers


David:
Alaska items (bears, wood deco items, pine, rough wood)
Seashore decorations
Woodworking tools, books, ideas

Christmas Letter 2006

~ 2006 ~
Merry Christmas from the Killingsworth's

We pray your year has been filled with lots of joy and happiness. Please enjoy this Year in Review!

Aaron started college after returning from the Navy last year. He's really growing up as he teaches the young adult class at our old church in Houston. He's currently keeping us up-to-date with the family while living with Aunt Jan and her crew.

Elden took at trip to St. Louis and spent time with Mom and Rick. Mom is happily celebrating "sixty years young" this year, HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

Dad moved to GA, then on to MS to rebuild our house on the coast. He's found a great job doing what he loves, while keeping track of our old friends.

Beka and Jerry took a 7-day cruise to Cozumel, Jamaica, and the Grand Cayman Islands just after Kristen (5) and Justin(4) started school. Kristen is growing up fast, and she is just like her mom, a social butterfly.

Sad news hit us during the anniversary of hurricane Katrina. Aunt Mary Rooth passed away at a young age. Our hearts still grieve her passing.

Taylor turns 15 this year. We can't believe he'll be getting his learner's permit already. Though he spent Spring Break and Summer with us, it's never enough time. He's becoming a fine young man.

Kayla graduated with her Associates in Spring and recently took another trip out of the U.S. of A. She's becoming quite the world traveler. She has plans to go to cooking school, we can't wait!

Dad and Jean are loving AL. We were able to visit with them along their way to TN on a Fall trip.

PWOC = Protestant Women of the Chapel = One very busy Christa!
Christa is the '06-'07 Programs coordinator for the women's group at the Robins AFB chapel. She's in charge of monthly fellowships including choosing the speaker, theme and decorations. It's proving to be a very rewarding and challenging volunteer position. Christa is also taking on new adventures, including singing in the Christmas Cantata and was a shepherd in the Christmas Play. Life for us has seemed to revolve around the chapel much of this year.

David is staying busy with Tux Studios picking up new customers each week. He's enjoying building websites and applications for the new clients. Our new home has a fireplace and David has become an excellent lumberjack! Wagner, our dog, will turn seven in January. He's loving the huge backyard we have and of course the cooler weather. He's mellowed out more, if that's even possible!

We miss every one of you! Remember the Reason for the Season and have a Merry Christmas!

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree!

It is very close to Christmas here. We have A LOT going on this holiday season.

First, we won't be going to Texas for Christmas. :( (Sniff, Sniff) I'm still trying to keep my cool about that. We had big financial issues come due at the end of the year. I was able to send my presents to mom so she'll be able to put them under the tree for the family assembling there. I also sent out stockings too. This is a HUGE thing wih my mom, you can only get stockings if you spend the night and wake up on Christmas morning at her house. I also sent a video wishing everyone Merry Christmas etc. That was fun.

December in Review:
December 2 - Craft Day - We made 100+ Christmas cards for different charities around town. We also made 10 tied quilts for the Pregnacy Resource Center. The kids had something to do too, they used poster paints to create bags for all the goodies from the Baby Shower to go into.

December 8 - PWOC Monthly Program
Theme: "A Baby Shower for Jesus"
Food: Chicken Fingers provided. Potluck for Apps, Salads, and Desserts.
We had the ladies bring shower gifts to be donated to the Pregnancy Resource Center. We ended up taking 2 car loads over there. Wow, God is good.
We also had an Ornament Exchange, I took a lighthouse by Thomas Kincaid to Kinny who collects lighthouses, and she ended up giving me a penguin, which I collect. Life is good. God is good.

The program was with 8 ladies doing different singing and speaking parts. I let them choose what they would like to do. It is really neat to see how their different things came together.

December 10 - Christmas Cantata
AM: I sung in the 40 minute cantata. Pretty amazing for me who doesn't do public speaking. It was a fun program, very lively music. David recorded it. He's really stepping out in our world of the chapel as well.

PM: Christmas Play - Another step out!
I was a shepherd in the play. We had 3 under the age of 1, and 5 other under 6. It was fun and crazy all at the same time. I had 3 speaking parts too. My micophone didn't function, so I almost YELLED my lines.

December 12: SUMs Dinner
Single and Unaccompnied Members Dinner - Provided by the Chapel at the Chappel. Once-a-month. Long day as well, getting decorations together, food out, then clean up.

UPCOMING:
December 24th Christmas Eve Program
David and I will be reading verses and then I will be leading the last song "Silent Night" as we light candles around the chapel. This will be my first Christmas Eve service. I am excited.

Of course Christmas Day Dinner
We should be going to Ch. Rachel Coggins home. We have been invited a couple of places for dinner. It was a hard choice.

oh PWOC..

We're getting ready for another retreat/conference. I'm excited. Tired. Everything all at once.

PWOC Fall Focus

I have a BUNCH to say about the past few meetings. But, David says it's past my bedtime!

Sept: Kick Off Program
Theme: Unity to Let the World Know

Oct: "Does the Shoe Fit?"

Nov: "Living Letters, to let the World Know"

Dec: "Baby Shower for Jesus"

Jan: "Unity= You -N- I - Tie"
Objective: Focus on unity through a study of differing personality types andhow they work together.
Scripture: Ecc. 4:9-12 (NKJ) Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But oe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up... And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Feb: "Stand by Your Man"
Objective: Either Learning to maintain unity in marriage OR Learning to Stand by THE Man, Jesus, being the spritiual bridegroom.

March: Sabboth and Tabernacle Teaching

Happy Weekends

Ok. Here I sit on a cloudy Sunday morning. I have been asking God to wake me up early (when the 1st alarm goes off). And, I seem only to be able to do so on Sunday mornings. Is that ironic or what?!

We have had a busy weekend. We helped pack and move one of our dear friends, Xavier and Erin. It is very sad to me that we only just began being friends with them. David and Xavier get along famously; Erin and I were just beginning to craft together. I am going to miss them much. But, they have God's call on their lives. They are heading west to Missouri. I cannot wait to get the report from them about their journeys and how God has continued to guide their paths. He's been so good so far!!

I updated my "ticker". I lost another pound by Saturday. Felisha, the kids and I have gone to the pool 2 times this week and swam. I had meant to on Friday but ended up being part of the move crew. We will try to continue this next week. Her kids are getting more and more independent in the water. Maybe Felisha will one day too.

We started putting together a website for Felisha. She will be making purses and diaper bags. I have ordered one from her. I even got to pick the fabric I wanted, how fun was that!! I will post more once I have her site more functional, of course I will be putting pictures up here once I have my bag.

Christa.

Things to consider

Well, too much going on to get into much detail.

We have friends moving to Missouri. We have new job prospects, one of which is in Houston. We have lots going on at church. Too much.

Our business is growing. But, it seems to be getting more and more difficult to run. Things are panning out as smoothly as it seems they should.

I feel like I am dog-paddling in a pool, barely keeping my head above water. Things keep getting crazier and crazier. It will end soon? Right?

PWOC - Kick Off Program

We also just finished our Kick Off Program on Unity. It was once again WONDERFUL. We have Becky Shirey speak. The board had heard her at the leadership conference. It was a great pep talk with major spiritual focus.

I used international flags to drape on the tables and chair backs. We have cheese and chocolate fondue and all the dippables you could imagine.

Once again, great!

Welcome Tea

The Welcome Tea for PWOC was wonderful. It was on Saturday August 18.

We had 2 hours to get it together. Eight dining tables with teapot centerpieces. Three buffet table with ivy. Ferns across the front.

I will TRY to write more later!

Weekends

Here it is.. hmmmm.. Sunday evening. I have had a long weekend.

Friday night I had a PWOC board planning "retreat" at the Officers Club on base. It was nice, BUT the air conditioner was OUT! So, it was *very* hot. We worked on figuring out our skills, passions, attitudes, etc. It was an interesting night.

I woke up early on Saturday and finished working on my programs for the year with PWOC. I brought a fan to the final 10-6 meeting. It was applauded. :) We worked more on our strengths and weaknesses and then went to work on planning on the year. One thing we failed to accomplish was to learn of Felisha's (our president) vision for the coming year, and then to state our goals for the year. We tried and tabled them only succeeding in making very generic goals.
1. To reach the women in the pews at RAFB chapel.
2. To reach the women of RAFB.
3. To strengthen the women of PWOC in their Christian walk.

Ok. Those are nice, but we didn't plan how to accomplish those. It was disheartening. There were many, "we didn't do this or that last year", "I didn't like this last year", "You offended me here or there when I came to PWOC", etc. I tried to make my comments constructive but positive. There were many prayers going up during the "retreat".

Last night David and I went to the Atlanta Bread company. It was good, I had a Greek salad. We then went to our favorite shopping strip and I headed to Michael's while David headed to Books a Million. We drank coffee and David picked up 2 more computer books. He loves that place.

I picked up a few things for next week's "work" Sunday for the PWOC welcome tea. I am getting more and more excited about putting that together. Since our theme is "unity to let the world know" I am doing an International Tea. We will have tea and desserts from around the world. I have asked Kitty to make some German cookies, Sharon to make some Korean tea and cookies. I will be asking Ms. Faynetta to make some lace cookies, and to borrow her silver tea service for the meeting. I am hoping to ask Ms. DiAnne from Mississippi to come up for the weekend. We shall see.

I am also planning on using tea pots filled with fresh ivy for the centerpieces. I will be making and buying small country flags to put into the tea pots. I will then make up a small fact-sheet about the country of which I have flags. I will put on it the country's motto, bird, etc. I am hoping to research some Christian facts or maybe some "Voice of the martyr's" info about some of the 3rd world countries around the world. This way I can put some prayer facts for each of the countries as well. I want to make up a few index cards at each table as well that will have those facts on them and make it something that the women can take home with them and continue to pray about. Again, we shall see. That's a lot to get together before next Sunday when I have the work day.

The tea will be on Aug. 19th. I plan to take lots of pictures and of course have an update here. :)

Anyways, today was the last day of our senior Protestant chaplain, Burrell. They had a fish fry in his honor, and of course we had a "hail" for our new senior Protestant chaplain Page. This will become confusing at some point. We have a Ch. Payne and a Ch. Page. Whew.. His family seems nice, we are looking forward to working with him at PWOC, he's our new guy! I need to get back to work on the house, that's what I've finished the weekend off with.

We received rain this weekend as well. Thank God, prayers never cease to answered around here. I've planted a few new things in the garden and around in the beds. I was hoping I wouldn't have to water every day for the next week. God is soooooo good.

Til later..
Christa.

New job..

Ok, whew!

I got a new job. It has consumed more time than I thought it would.
I am excited still about it. It just keeps me on my toes, and limits my time
at home.

The neat thing about the job, is almost everyone one of you has seen one or used one of our products. It's pretty cool. We put promotional sayings and icons on pencils and markers.

:) Anyways, I need to get my laundry done, and also work on a few websites with David before bed. I'll try to post more soon.

HUGS AND LOVE,
Christa.

PWOC program

We had our first PWOC program last night. Things were crazy in trying to get it together. Everything from moving from the chapel annex into a tent, to last minute changes in availablity of chairs and tables. It was crazy.

Our speaker was RIGHT ON TARGET. The program flowed and we had a good time. I am exhausted though.

:) I will try to write more later and possibly get a few pics up too.