No Spend month - Week 2

This challenge is allowing me to think through purchases we are making. In a way it is freeing, because I don't feel the need to browse by the clearance racks. I know our home has more than enough to survive another two weeks and possibly more. Like many homes in America, I have extra cleaning supplies under sinks, I have extra toothpaste and toothbrushes in our overnight bags, I have extra. America has extra. In that mind frame, I also donated some of the "extra" in my home. I didn't count this as a savings or "spenditure". But, it needs to be noted.


Week Two Spent:
Groceries $46
Eating out 16
Starbucks 3
Computer Repair 58
Dog Food 43
Total: $166

Ways we saved this week:
-We put off a special class I was wanting to take. It would have been $125 for each of us.
Savings: $250 (this month, although the class is probably in our future)
-Business lunch savings: I sent David to work with his lunch, then he ate at his desk. I picked him up "for lunch". We drove around downtown, drove out to Memorial Park and sat and watched the squirrels and birds. Saved $20
-Food savings: I cooked a 3 pound brisket (think pot roast) in the crockpot for 24 hours. We had 2 meals this weekend on it and we have enough for 3 lunches this week. I served the brisket over brown rice with a basic salad. Spent $12 on brisket used spices on hand to marinate the meat. Five meals for two for $20!!

Other ways we gave back:
Donated 3 bags of clothes to Salvation Army.
Plus 6 more boxes of books, house ware and kitchen supplies to Goodwill.

Our budget is under attack for the remaining two weeks. I didn't budget for a computer problem, nor did I budget for dog food. Ughh.. Those two alone were $101 this week. This will definitely challenge us to watch our spending over the next two weeks. It can be done, I have watched "Small Notebook" get through a whole month on $250. Here's our money breakdown:

Spent
Week One: $135
Week Two: 166
Total Spent this month: $301

Saved:
Week One: $215
Week Two: 270
Total Saved this month: $485

No Spend month - Week one

Week One totals:

Bus fare: $25
Gas: 35
Eating Out: 25
Massage: 25
B/Lunch/Din@moms 20
Coffee/kolaches 5

Total Spent: $135



Things we did for free this week:
-Went online and reserved/ordered books from the big downtown library. Rode our bikes to the library (no parking fees) and checked out those books. Saved $5
-We cut our hair at home over the weekend. I just trimmed mine, David's cut was a bit more involved. Saved $45.

Other ways we saved money:
-Cancelled subscriptions to 2 magazines. Saved $125
-Cancelled newspaper account. Saved $40
Total Saved: $215

We ended up going up to the lake this weekend. We planned to grill for lunch and dinner while we were there. Instead of buying food along the way, I used an old Girl Scout cooking tip. I created pouches of food ahead of time and we were able to put them on the grill. The basic idea is to assemble these foil packages at home, transport them to the grill, and have an easy meal with easy cleanup.

For the foil pouches I used 4 layers of aluminium foil about 12"x12" in size. I then sprayed the foil with PAM, placed cooked rice, frozen broccoli, diced cooked shrimp, shredded cheese, butter and spices (Italian dressing, garlic, salt and pepper) in the middle. I folded them over and placed in a large ziploc bag. Because I used frozen food items, they travelled and held well in the cooler. These packages can be made up ahead of time and put in the freezer.

Here's a great list of foil pouch recipes on About.com

We are looking good for week 2 of the challenge.

No Spend month - Plan

I am following the basic plan from Small Notebook. She posted her plan for July here.

Our goal is to spend less than $400 for the upcoming month. After following Rachel at Small Notebook, I have done a few no spend weeks here and there. Our challenge is to limit and control our spending for an entire month. I love that Rachel has done this "No Spend Month" annually. She is quite an inspiration.

We are going to strive to only spend money on what is necessary and basic to living. This budget is for a two person household (my husband and myself). Our biggest obstacles will be with groceries as our normal budget for the entire month for food is $400. I will be doing lots of pantry cooking.

Here's the Killingsworth's plan for September:

What's included: (estimates)
Groceries $125
Gas $70
Eating out $50
Entertainment $50
Home maintenance supplies (cleaning, etc) $20
Doctor visits $30
Bus fare to work $55


What's not included:
Rent
Insurance(s)
Utilities
Tithes
Credit card payments

What we have cancelled already:
Netflix
XM Radio
Trip to the country


We are starting with a bare pantry, full freezer, and a bare fridge. I do not have many pointers on this but will refer you back to Rachel's post and updates. She did an excellent job of describing her project and providing links for helpful items. I will update on Monday our progress.

No-Spend month...

September is official our "no-spend" month..

I will put more details here soon..

But, you are now my accountability partner!

Dump Cake aka Apple Cobbler

One of my favourite desserts from my favourite auntie's. I am making this for David's co-workers.

:) Enjoy!


Dump Cake aka Apple Cobbler
Ingredients

* 1 Comstock canned apple pie filling
* 1 box of yellow or butter cake mix
* 2 two sticks of butter, melted

Cooking Instructions

Grease cake pan. Pour pie filling into the pan. Level the pie filling in the pan covering the bottom. Pour cake mix over the pie filling. Do not mix these layers. Pour the melted butter over the cake mix to cover the entire cake. Do not mix these layers.

Bake in a 350F degree pre-heated oven for 30 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes, serve with ice cream.

It's a ParTy!! Tonight!

Back to life.. back to the streets!

We rode our bikes 4 - FOUR times this week! How cool is that? Well, actually, it wasn't very cool at all. Most days the heat index was over 100 degrees. But, we did it!!

Today, we did 34 minutes and 5.6 miles. Much of that was on the street too. This is amazing because I've been run off the road by careless or reckless automobile drivers, so we've been riding almost a year and this week was my first week out on those roads. We did most of the street riding after 7pm and on the weekend here in downtown, Houston. The street riding was much safer than on weekdays 9-7pm.

Anywho.. I just wanted to get the update in, because I am still on my exercise high!

Hugs, Christa..

Some hope...

Well, I can't say we will be doing anything in the baby department anytime soon. But, I can say that my follow-up doctor appointment was good. He said that we still have no reason to miscarry in the future and that my odds are that of a normal person. I don't know how that can be, but it is none-the-less. So, we are waiting on genetic testing of the babies and for some follow-up blood work on David and me.

I'm tired of not being normal and of not doing normal things. I know it will be a slow process, but I really want to feel better, especially mentally. God is bigger than this, I just have to continue to believe and trust in that.

Thanks again for all your thoughts and prayers.
Christa.

crazy life.. more pregnancy disaster

Ok, so I promised we'd have an update after today's appointment.

Well, apparently I didn't miscarry this past weekend. All the blood, all the pain, all the clots, all the mess for 3 days.. nope.. I wish this was a good report post, but it is not.

The scan this morning showed the babies still in there, with no growth or heartbeats. I am scheduled for surgery tomorrow and they will be doing genetic testing to make sure we're not creating an extra set of chromosomes or something. I should get those results in 2-3 weeks. That will determine where we go in the fertility process.

Thanks again for following and checking in on me.. it will be another hard week, but I'm not holding on to Jesus.. He's holding on to me..

Pregnancy loss

Well, this update isn't one I want post. It needs to be done however.

(TMI warning)
On Saturday in one of our first outtings in weeks I fell ill. Turns out I was starting to miscarry. We made it through dinner at Star Pizza. To my horror, I bled through to the chair. We canceled the rest of our plans and headed home while calling the dr.

The pain was worse than I remember and came on hard Saturday night. The dr said to monitor and go to hospital if looks abnormal. Sleep was allusive and I think I passed out around 6am.

Today is Tuesday and I'm still in bed with cramps and little bleeding. My next appt is Thursday, hopefully we had a complete miscarriage and won't have to go to the hospital for an D&C.

David has worked from home the past two days. I am so blessed. He has also finished work early and then sat with me in bed until bedtime.

My heart is broken and in so many pieces. We saw a heartbeat for the first time in all my pregnancies. The chances of miscarriage after seeing a heartbeat dropped down to 10%. I can't even beat those odds. What is wrong with me? Life is so unfair and so rough. I really don't know how to get through this. I know God is there somewhere. I just can't hear Him through my screams.

What to say, what to do. I am at a complete loss and feel like I'm in a hole with no way out. How do you hold hope with so much loss? Seven babies in heaven. I can't do this.

pregnancy loss

Thanks for visiting my page and checking in with me.

My appointment today went horribly. It looks like we lost the twins. There was only 3 days worth of growth over the past 8 days and we lost the heartbeat on baby A. I started to cry, but David says we still have hope. In all honesty, he and maybe others have hope, I do not. With 5 miscarriages ending much the same as this one I do not see hope.

The Dr agreed to let us scan again in 1 week (next Thursday) but he is scheduling a D&C for Friday the 19th because there is no hope. I am tired, I hurt, I am crampy, I am lost. Did you know I spent over 6 hours researching OB's in the Houston area in the past 2 days. I can't do this anymore.

I know you are praying.. but please don't comment until after the 20th and it is all over.
Thanks, Christa.

quick prego update..

last thursday, June 4th we were 6 weeks and 2 days along..
we saw heartbeats on twin a. 110!
twin b no yoke sack or fetal pole.. we will rescan next week on friday..
dr isn't optimistic on twin b..
also twin a's gestational sac is about 50% smaller than it should be.. this is another cause for concern.

i'm doing okay, minus a hefty headache..

heading back to bed.. thanks for prayers!

love, christa +2

Oh joy.. pregnancy!

So, I thought I'd give a little report on how we were doing.

I am still very tired and worn out. The doctor keeps saying "take it easy and stay off your feet." That is much harder to do than I thought. We are thinking of getting a small refrigerator for upstairs and a microwave too. I will bring the water filter pitcher and hot tea maker up too. I'd be set then! David has already moved the room around so I can go from a recliner to the bed in one step. Isn't he grand?

I'm not that nauseous. My wonderful doctor already gave me the whole gammit of things to take, just in case. I haven't been that hungry, due to the pressure in my abdomen area anyways. The doctor is worried about that, although I haven't lost weight. So, I've created a week's worth of menus and a grocery shopping list, I just haven't had the energy/desire to make it happen. I know, I know, take it easy.

That's all I have until Friday's report about heartbeats. :)

Hugs, Christa +2

Pregnancy Update..

A quick update on the OHSS (ovary hyperstimulation syndrom). My ovaries have grown to over 10cm each!! (that's about 3 times their normal size!) Ugh.. I saw the dr last Friday and again today. Things are looking up. The pain is about the same, size about the same, the fluid around the ovaries has increased, but my CBC and other bloodwork, etc is still looking good.

On to other good news... It looks like TWINS! We saw two little buds today! :) I go in a week from this Friday and hopefully see heartbeats.

Woo Woo x 2!
Tired, tired Christa

Fertility UPDATE! :) We made it!!

Hey all,

I went in on Monday and had another scan along with the prego test. The test came out positive!! (doin' a dance!) We did it, we did it, we did it!! Praise God, amen.
The scan, however, was worse than last week.

The OHSS (over hyper stimulation syndrome) has worsened due to all the prego hormones. The dr says it might last 4 to 6 more weeks. I have gained 7 pounds in a week. I have bloated up over 10 inches in my waist. (I look 5 months pregnant!) Of course we are monitoring this and other symptoms very closely.

We had another scan on Wednesday and my ovaries had grown another 2cm each. Thankfully there is no fluid in my belly or in my lungs. The nurse said they would typically drain the ovaries, but with 5 miscarriages in my past, they were using that as a last resort. She also said that I needed to keep a bag packed for the hospital because these cases can go bad in a hurry. (like this isn't bad enough?)

I will be scanned again on Friday. I need prayers for mental support. I have been in bed for almost 2 weeks now and we're only technically 4.5 weeks prego!

Thanks for all your prayers and support gals!

-- Christa.

Fertillity issues...

So, you know that we are on this journey this month right?
I told you that I had done really well at the studying part part, right?

Well, I ended up with a moderate (almost severe) case of OHSS (Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome). I look like I am 4 months pregnant. The swelling is insane. Each of my ovaries ended up bigger than my uterus. How is that possible? I don't fully understand. But, apparently I was slow to respond to the medicine that stimulated the follicles in my ovaries. So, they have swollen up so much that they are touching each other!! Needless to say (although, I am going to anyways!) I could barely walk and function. However, I was not running a fever or nauseated and throwing up. So, I didn't call the doctor and waited for 3 days until I had an appointment.

The doctor ran some tests to make sure I wasn't a severe case of OHSS. He then put me on bed-rest for 5 days. Good news swelling has gone down although I still cannot fit my jeans.

My next doctor appointment is Monday. We will learn if we are pregnant and check on the status of my ovaries. If we aren't prego then we will take a month or two for my ovaries to get back down to size. (heal?)

That's my update for now.. I'm really feeling much better and I am very thankful for all your prayers!!

~Christa

Fertility Update - round 2

We're on round two of our fertility journey with our new doctors. We have tried a new-to-me medicine that did not give me a 5-day headache like round one did.

We just returned from our second u/s (ultrasound) to learn that they have successfully stimulated 2 large follicles, 4 medium follicles and 3 small follicles. Because of all the stimulation, we need to use Ovidril (force ovulation) even if we decide not to try because of all the possible releasable eggs.

Yes, we were in for a big surprise this morning during the u/s. Apparently, I did much studying for this test and responded overly-well to the follicle stimulation. My doctor stands on the conservative side and said he'd give a less than 10% chance of triplets and only slightly higher for twins. Of course, he said he wouldn't do and insemination round with us for fear of the multiples. Although we will be releasing eggs, we still have to get one fertilized. This has been the main stumbling block for us.

I am still surprised and stumped by the response. We've been through over 3 years of fertility treatments, and I have NEVER responded with more than 1 medium follicle. Crazy stuff is happening here. I am not sure what we are going to do. More babies, more chance of miscarriage, more expense, more bedrest, more house needed. AHHHHHHHHHH!!

We will pray about it, though I think I will wimp out on this round. We'll see.

-Christa

Recent Biking Trip

Here are some great pics from the last 8 mile ride down the Houston Buffalo Bayou system.







(David and his bike are here somewhere!)

Fertility Virtual Day Spa - Ends 5/3

Great give-o-way related to the infertility journey I am on.

Ends today:
Inner Beauty

Enjoy, Christa

Scrapbooking give-o-way!

I found this little give-o-way over at Storm's 365 Memories. She sends out many organizational tips for crafters along with a whole seperate blog for getting ready for Christmas.

She's great and a great blogger: You can enter her contest here.

Big Fat Negative

Thanks for the prayers everyone. This cycle was a bust and we're gearing up to start another.
We've changed meds to include 4 more days of shots. yah!

Lost, lost, lost...
Christa

Day 13...

Hmmm... Ov-a-dril or not to Ovadril.. this is the question.

So, for all you non-fertility gurus out there. I have successfully stimulated one of my follicles (btw I don't know when they become eggs). Tonight is supposed to be yet-another shot to make me ovulate. Well. I haven't done my homework. I don't know when it is supposed to work, how it is supposed to work, why it works, etc. I do know that we are supposed to do the "babydance" for 3 days starting tomorrow.

I know it's way late in the game to be asking if this is purely selfish on my part. I've had five miscarriages, why would I want to even threaten to have another? Have you seen the world lately? Do you know how many teenagers are getting pregnant? About how many children are up for adoption? ugh. Why am I doing this.

I have been here mentally with many of the past treatments. I am going to let go, and let God. I am going to let His peace wash over me and just take the next step. amen.

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

~*~*~*~*~


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

~*~*~*~*~


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!