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/