Treasured

Simple Woman's Daybook

2012-02-15T14:22:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY: February 15, 2012

Outside my window...sun setting.

I am thinking...I really enjoy being a volleyball coach.

I am thankful...for words. (I know that sounds strange, but I am!)

In the kitchen...pumpkin bars that will be devoured by teenage boys.

I am wearing...once again, my gym clothes. I am pathetic!

I am creating...volleyball drills in my mind.

I am going...to make dinner very soon.

I am wondering...how fast I can run 1 mile.

I am reading...a book on Volleyball fundamentals.

I am hoping...to still get to the gym today.

I am looking forward to...Moms and more.

I am learning...to be joyful as I serve my family.

Around the house...yikes, lets not go there.

I am pondering....how I will be presenting the gospel tomorrow.

A favorite quote for today..."suaviter in modo, fortiter in re"

"gentle in manner, strong in deed"~Dwight D. Eisenhower

One of my favorite things...good sugary coffee from Aspen, Yummy.

Chocolate covered Strawberry Mocha~delicious

A few plans for the rest of the week: Iron my man's shirts, coffee with my sweet friend, and my favorite MC friends are coming over.

A peek into my day...uhhhh, it is almost over. No need to peek here.

Through the lens.......a sweet crisp sunrise for the villagers who take up residents on our lake for this short time.

If you would like to participate with your own daybook or

simply read others

please visit Peggy at http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by!

Blessings, Connie

Word Filled Wednesday

2012-02-15T13:59:00.000-08:00

"Love is patient, Love is kind.

It does not envy, it does not boast,

it is not proud. It is not rude,

it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered,

it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but,

rejoices with truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes,

always preservers."

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

I was reading in my study this week that, the word patient,

can actually translate to mean a great suffering, or enduring suffering.

That is exactly what being patient is for me most of the time; suffering.

Might I remember that the next time I have to,

wait for someone I love, love is patient

travel behind a slow driver, love is patient,

wait for a treadmill to open love is patient,

listen to teens argue, love is patient,

submit to my husbands leading, love is patient.

Being patient is showing love, and the suffering I am enduring is

making me look more like Christ himself. Simply said,

"True Love is a servant, who thinks of others and their needs before their own."

Blessings, Connie

Happy Valentines Day

2012-02-14T07:28:00.000-08:00

There is no one else in the whole wide world that I would rather call my Valentine!

That's right, you can line up all the men in the whole world and I would still chose him.

I love to be the one who is called Mrs. Troy Hoehne. I love that no one else gets that title.

This man of mine, makes me laugh and smile like no other.

He brings out the very best in me. (and the worst at times:)

I love him so much that sometimes it feels as if my heart will burst.

I cherish and adore him. I long to grow old with him.

He protects and provides for me. He is upright and righteous. He is a man of character and strength.

He is fearfully and wonderfully made and his "manscape" is like no other!

My heart still gets butterflies when our eyes meet from across the room.

Best of all, I love us together.

I hope you all have a wonderful Valentines day with the one who holds the key to your heart.

If you have any creative ideas how to make your beloved feel loved and special, be sure to leave me a comment. I always love to hear from you!

Blessings, Connie

Word Filled Wednesday

2012-02-08T13:22:00.000-08:00

"Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him.

Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth.

Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them."

Psalm 127:3-5

As I sought out a photo to use today, I am overwhelmed by the blessing to be a mother.

No longer do my kiddos look so small, but oh how I remember, as if it were yesterday.

I tend to romanticize those tough years, but I wouldn't trade a minute of them.

They have truly been our reward and will be our legacy and I couldn't be more proud.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2012-01-31T12:59:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY: January 31, 2012

Outside my window...sunny and warm for January.

I am thinking...my toes are cold even though its unseasonably warm.

I am thankful...that I can trust my children.

In the kitchen...freshly homemade apple, cinnamon muffins.

I am wearing...black, long sweater with J-Lo jeans, thanks J-Lo, they fit pretty well.

I am creating...a re-used magnet board from an old cookie sheet.

I am going...to spend some quality time with my girl and a good friend.

I am wondering...how to get time to slow down.

I am reading...the same things, but plan to have them finished by Friday!

I am hoping...the next couple days will go smoothly.

I am looking forward to...a chick flick with some of my favorite ladies.

I am learning...to replace lies with truth.

Around the house...packed bags and pillows.

I am pondering....how to make my own tooth soap?

A favorite quote for today..."Just do what is next."

One of my favorite things...is when God does the unexpected.

A few plans for the rest of the week: chick flick, speech tournament, Super Bowl.

A peek into my day...intentional memorization.

Through the lens.......

One of my most beautiful friends and myself after a sweet run/walk in the rain.

We were soaked!

If you would like to participate with your own daybook or

simply read others

please visit Peggy at http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by!

Blessings, Connie

Word filled Wednesday

2012-01-25T09:38:00.000-08:00

"Really?"

"even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve,

and to give his life as a ransom for many."

Matthew 20:28

Thank you Lord for the sweet reminder of servant-hood.

I almost started a hunt for the responsible party until,

I heard your whisper.

Blessings, Connie

Simple Woman's Daybook

2012-01-23T15:04:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY: January 23, 2012

Outside my window...tire tracks in the snow.

I am thinking...I am not really a simple woman at all. I may start out that way in the beginning of the week, but by Friday, I am for sure complicated!

I am thankful...for my new hideaway garbage can. I am loving it! (except I keep walking to where my old one use to be.)

In the kitchen...potatoes are boiling and on their way to being mashed.

I am wearing...you will be surprised I'm sure....my exercise clothes.

I am creating...new lesson plans for the next few weeks.

I am going...the gym later today.

I am wondering...how long before my past will just stay there.

I am reading...Feathers from my Nest and Art of the Smart, almost done!!!

I am hoping...dinner will be delicious.

I am looking forward to...spending some time with my sweet friend at a health expo.

I am learning...to listen.

Around the house...laundry awaits to be folded and the rustling of legos!

I am pondering....

A favorite quote for today..."We pay you to get to 1st base, not out at 2nd." -Moneyball

One of my favorite things...is the kindness of my children to one another.

A few plans for the rest of the week: finish grading, planning, health expo, coffee:), Frozen Tundra Flag Football tourn, and more that I won't bore you with.

A peek into my day...planning and wrapping things up.

Who doesn't love super models in BIG HATS!

If you would like to participate with your own daybook or

simply read others

please visit Peggy at http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by!

Blessings, Connie

Dreamer, Nothing but a dreamer......

2012-01-20T11:37:00.000-08:00

Funny thing. When I was young, I would hear, "Follow your Dreams". As you age, you don't hear it as much or maybe you just quit paying attention to it, realizing they may never happen so why dwell on it. For me, I'm not sure I really had dreams, well, at least not big ones. Of course, I dream't of marriage and kids, but I guess, I am talking about the dreams that are along the lines of.....what do you want to be when you grow up, type dreams. I have always been a very down to earth, practical person. My dream was to find a good job that I could give my best and enjoy. To date: being a wife and mom have been the best job I could have ever dreamed of. (funny, but way back when that wasn't really on my mind) It is not over yet, but as I prepare my 1st child to think about college, it is a bit of an awakening that this job I hold now will come to a close if I do it right. With all that being said, the Lord has given me some freedom and encouragement to dream of what is to possibly come. He has given me some dreams. I hesitate to even type them out, because the practical side of me, says, "Bah, you could never do that." and the fear that if I tried I may fail. Here is the list. I have a heart to teach and share the Lord with people, mainly, women and young people. I enjoy public speaking, as crazy as that sounds. Possibly write a book. Health and Wellness has a special spot to. I toy around with the idea of opening a business that specializes in products for runners. The Lord and I are in more of a brainstorming session now and I will wait and see where He leads me. He has been using Joel 2 to be a blessing and encouragement to me. I write only to wonder what is to come and also to be able to one day look back and either laugh or see if any of it comes to be. Do you have any dreams that you hope to one day fulfill or are you living them out? Let me know, I'd love to hear them. Happy Dreaming.............

"your old men (women) shall dream dreams,....." Joel 2:28
*gender change is mine.

Blessings, Connie

Word Filled Wednesday

2012-01-18T08:15:00.000-08:00

Acts 9:6

"The Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias."

And he said, "Here I am, Lord."

And the Lord said to him, "Go......"

Acts 9:14-15

Lord, you have plans that are being unfolded.

Your plans are always good.

You chose the least of these to carry them out.

"Here I am, Lord. I will go."

Might I be like a sheep who knows her shepherds voice.

"Rise and you will be told what to do."

(paraphrased Acts 9:6)

Blessings, Connie

Romancing your Husband.......

2012-01-17T14:05:00.000-08:00

Romantic Ideas for Your Husband

Romance according to Webster: A long poem or tale, originally written in aromance dialect, about the adventures of knights. 2. Novel of love, adventure, 3. Excitement, love4. A love affair.

Is this how you would define your marriage? Or is it more like the trailer from the movie "Date Night"? (1st 30 seconds)

We love this movie, because after awhile that is what romance begins to look like and we need to refresh and reignite the spark that we once had!

Point #1. Practice NOT doing the things he doesn’t like.

Normally flowers and chocolatesare not his idea of romance. A good rule of thumb is that if it makes my heart go pitter patter, then it probably is not the thing to do for him. When he has expressed his dislikefor something stop doing it.

Example: If you have an outfit you like and he has said, "Hmmm, it's not my favorite or that blue shirt reminds me of my grandma." Probably, donate it to a charitable organization, or pass it on to your grandma, she'll probably love it.

Does he love a picked up house,swept floor, a made bed? Well, then do those things.

Point # 2. Be a GOOD student of your man.

I was blessed early on in my relationship with the Lord with this book, The 5 Love Languages. This really helped me take a good look at myself, my husband and my kiddos. It gives examples of the 5 languages that speak to all of us. They are words of affirmation, gift giving, quality time, physical touch, and acts of service. Knowing him helps to do the things he likes and staying away from the things he doesn't care for. Since were focusing on intimacy you might want to find a time and dig deep for the courage to ask him what his dream lover looks like, than be that. (This idea was from the Intimate Issues conference by Linda Dillow)

Point #3. Be interested in the things he likes.

Being a good student means that you will know what he likes. Now you can do something to really knock his socks off....know something about it and be the one toopen up the discussion on the topic. He will be surprised especially if it is an area that you have in the past expressed some disliking.

Point #4. Be Impressed with him

Watch him and be impressed. The older we get the less people rave about us. You though can do this for your man. When he does something that you are impressed with tell him. Let him know you still admire him like you did in the beginning days of your relationship. It never hurts to say how impressed you are with his strength! You just watch he will beam.

Build him up in front ofothers. If your impressed and it is in front of other people, don't miss the opportunity to say. He will stand a little taller.

This is important, try not to override what hesays. It makes them feel inadequate and it is embarrassing. Our guys like to be needed. I know you are a strong woman, but, be a damsel in distress sometimes. Need him and let him help you.

Point #5. Make yourself available

Be willing to just be in thesame space as he is. When he is doing a project be ready to lend a helping hand. Also, here is a biggie. If you are romancing your husband in such a way and he begins to draw near to you, then you need to be available for him. I understand that sometimes it is more fun to draw the attention of him then when the time comes.....fear or some past ugliness comes up and you go into..."You can't touch this mode!" This is so discouraging for all involved. If you are struggling with past hurt, whether from him or some other thing, then you need to be open and honest about it with your husband and maybe need to get some help to get you through it.

Point #6. Most important …be his lover not his mother.

He has 1 mother and likely a mother-in-law and that is plenty. A lot of us are moms all day long and it can be hard to turn it off, but you need to. If you have trouble recognizing if you are doing that, ask a friend who you trust to tell you if they notice you treating your husband that way.

Your husband wants to be intimate with a woman who is confident and content. This is an area that I think a lot of us woman struggle with. The world sets up unrealistic standards and gives a false idea of intimacy. In order to be that kind of a woman, we need to know what the truth about ourselves and what true romantic intimacy is to look like. So we need to consult the one who created it. God himself! Song of Solomon is a great place to look.

There are other places to and the one other verse that I am going to take the time to address is 1 Corinthians 7:4. Yikes, I know. My husband has full authority over my body. You want romance, give your husband what is his, if you haven't already. Yes, I can hear all the reasons and excuses why we can't or shouldn't, heck, I wrote some of them, but in the end this is what I am told to do and so it must be what is best. Once again, I understand, there may be some healing that has to take place, but you have to start somewhere. Covering this area of your marriage in prayer is so important! One wise prayer could be, "Lord, match up our desires." The Lord is so faithful when we step out.

Romancing our husbands can seem strange. It is not the way we would want to be romanced. We are created differently. It's really about being able to serve our husbands in a way that meets their needs and desires and usually in the mix God does an amazing thing and our needs and desires get met to.

Since the creation of time there has been a Romance story being written. God the Creator of Romance wants us to be a part of it. He has been pursuing a passionate, exciting, and fulfilling relationship with us. He is the ultimate Knight and he has come to rescue us. Are you in need of rescuing? Is your marriage a mess or not what you have hoped for? You can have a "Happily Ever After", when Christ is at the center of your story.

This adventure you and your husband are on will take time. I just encourage you to take the 1^st step, then take the next one. It may be very hard at first, but the more you do it, the better it gets.

Here are a few practical ideas: (remember these are just ideas, your man might like something else)

The Out of Towner= “Don’t miss a thing journal”

My husband travels and so I write the things that happen down so he still feels connected and caught up when he gets home. This way I am not bombarding him with a weeks worth of info. and most of the time, it ends up being a bit of a love letter to him.

Facebook flirting or texting

Just make sure it is the correct phone number if you text!

Lunchbox surprise

Notes are easy, but favorite candy or whatever he likes.

Workshirt love notes

Sneak a note in to the pocket of his pants or shirt to find later that day.

Valentines surprise week

Small surprises throughout the week and a finale on the 14th. (start thinking now)

Do a chore for him.

Make the bed, iron shirts, make his lunch

Use SOS as a base line and write something about him and read it atbedtime. (This may start out awkward andfunny, but end fabulous.)

*When I say write him a note, I mean the kind he wants to read. If you are a good student you will know what trips his trigger. Also, notes that are a bit more passionate, I never used our names, just in case it gets dropped or someone else stumbles upon it by mistake before he finds it. And of course they should always be God honoring!!!!

Blessings, Connie

Simple Woman's Daybook

2012-01-16T18:13:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY: January 16, 2012

Outside my window...the porch lights are on waiting for my family to arrive under one roof.

I am thinking...about the final touches on the talk I've put together on romancing your husband!

I am thankful...for my husbands job, thanks CMD.

In the kitchen...lights are out and counters are clean.

I am wearing...stretchy pants and my autism walk shirt.

I am creating...HomeMade laundry detergent.

I am going...to bed soon.

I am wondering...if I will be as tired tomorrow.

I am reading...a bunch of cookbooks from the library.

I am hoping...my underline headache goes away.

I am looking forward to...women's studies starting again.

I am learning...to serve without complaining.

Around the house...laundry!

I am pondering...not much really.

A favorite quote for today..."All scripture is God breathed", when Paul wrote this he was speaking directly to the Old Testament.

One of my favorite things...is how good I feel after a good solid workout.

A few plans for the rest of the week: grading for 2nd quarter, unit 2 celebration projects, menu planning.

A peek into my day...clean up, laundry, library.

Romance after 18 years!!!! I love this guy.

If you would like to participate with your own daybook or simply read other entries

please visit Peggy at http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by!

Blessings, Connie

Word filled Wednesday

2012-01-11T10:36:00.000-08:00

"It had a great, high wall with twelve gates, and with twelve angels at the gates.

On the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of Israel.

There were three gates on the east, three on the north,

three on the south and three on the west.

The wall of the city had twelve foundations,

and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the lamb."

Revelation 21:12-14

My thoughts have been filled with how fleeting this life is. With the new year and a funeral to start it out, it can't be helped. I am finding myself both looking forward and reflecting. I wonder for what and how I will be remembered. As I ponder my life, it has become my prayer to not waste my precious time on the things that are foolishly fleeting. In my wrestling with one minute your here, then your gone, and my time here is finished, I have been brought to these precious truths. I will not be robbed of even one breath or be able to sneak in one extra one. My days are planned and they have been written for me. My Lord holds each one in his care. With each circumstance I face He has overseen it and ordained it for my good and His glory. This life I live now, I plan to live in a way that Glorifies God alone and that I will be loving Him more in each moment. My photo is from the Netherlands. When I approached this gate, I was tantalized by it's beauty and found myself wondering who reigned inside. There is another gate that one day I will approach, and I am so thankful that I won't have to stand on the outside wondering who reigns inside, because I already get to know. Praising God I get to know Him now and looking forward to the grand entrance on the very day and time He has picked out for me.

Blessings, Connie

Simple Woman's Daybook

2012-01-10T14:57:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY: January 10, 2012

Outside my window...a beautiful January sun setting.

I am thinking...how difficult the release of a child is.

I am thankful...I don't have to cook dinner tonight.

In the kitchen...evidence of people living here.

I am wearing...clean clothes:) (I even showered today:)

I am creating...a talk on ways to romance your hubby.

I am going...to chose to be nice.

I am wondering...what the pages of my journal will say this year.

I am reading...an old book on properly writing love letters.

I am hoping...to be able to make it to the gym each morning this week.

I am looking forward to...getting our finances in order, again.

I am learning...I need to focus on my relationship with my man.

Around the house...are signs of spring and I get confused and forget it is January.

I am pondering...a post on funerals.

A favorite quote for today..."People don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care."

One of my favorite things...getting a great shot.

A few plans for the rest of the week: my dad's Dr. appt., kids classes, menu plan.

A peek into my day...financial advisor appt.(yes another one), kids speech, dinner with

in-laws.

This is one of those shots that I got. It is one of my favorites.

Grandma Vicki and her grandchildren.

If you would like to participate with your own daybook or simply read other entries

please visit Peggy at http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by!

Blessings, Connie

George Lucas, Math Corrections, Guinea pig nails, and the smell of Cake Batter!

2012-01-05T18:02:00.000-08:00

These are the things that filled my day today!

No, George wasn't over for a visit, one of my children will be presenting a speech on him, this Saturday. It is so well written and he enjoyed the research very much, being that he is the biggest Star Wars fan ever. Today we had a conversion on doing things that are sometimes hard to do. This involved the memory work that goes with presenting a speech. We talked about how sometimes, you have to buckle down and work overtime to get things done and when it is something we don't care for doing it is even harder. Which brings me to the math corrections...............

'Deep sigh'

Oh math corrections! As I speak with my child, I realize, I have approximately 3 weeks or so of math corrections waiting for me. YIKES! My own words convict me. Math was never my favorite to do and it's not my favorite to correct. It may be time to just buckle down and get it done. Now that you all know, I give you, cyber-space, permission to hold me accountable. Just for the record I have been moving it from place to place with me trying to get it done, but have been interrupted.

Which brings me to the Guinea pig nails.....

I don't know if you know it or not, but, guinea pigs feet are a very important. They have their major arteries in their feet. They need their nails clipped about once a month and if you clip the nail to far down you could really hurt them. Oh my. Who is going to do this? Not me! So there is a sweet girl named, Stacey, who works at the pet store that does this and she did a great job. We will be seeing her monthly:) Thanks Stacey!!!! She went on about how good our Ruddie is and Carter started to beam. Then when we got in the car, Carter says, "Mom, did you hear how she kept going on about Ruddie and how good she was?" I replied, "Yeah, I did. You know how you feel so proud right now, that is how I feel when someone tells me how good you are." In reward, Ruddie got and apple and Carter a quarter! A lesson learned in this animal adventure.

Ahhhhh, the end of the day. I made it and as I sit and type, the aroma of cake batter fills the air. Cake batter blondies. As good as they smell, they taste 1,000 times wonderful. Oh, the lessons I learn from this child of mine. She just decides she wants to do something and does it. Me, well, I have to work into things. I think about it, talk about it, get use to the idea of it, and then if the feeling doesn't pass, I may do it. I am getting better, especially when it comes to the kitchen, but I have plenty of room to improve.

Thank you Lord for the lessons I learned today.

Thank you Lord for the gifts and talents of my children.

Thank you Lord for the joy of being able to train and teach them.

Word filled Wednesday

2012-01-04T07:36:00.001-08:00

Luke 11:10
For everyone who asks receives;

the one who seeks finds;

and to the one who knocks ,

the door will be opened.

Simple Woman's Daybook entry

2012-01-03T10:13:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY: January 3, 2012

Outside my window...sunny sky and bright, white, crisp, snow.

I am thinking...how fragile life is.

I am thankful...for God's new mercy today.

In the kitchen...Tapestry of Grace binder open wide and letters from thankful friends.

I am wearing...new jeans, green cashmere sweater with a brown one on top, and my scarf.

(It is cold in here.)

I am creating...more work for myself.

I am going...to take one step at a time.

I am wondering...how my friends are holding up after a loss.

I am reading...some books on entrepreneurship.

I am hoping...to use my time wisely.

I am looking forward to...being back in a regular routine.

I am learning...how to talk to teenagers.

Around the house...lots of books.

I am pondering...how my time here is very short.

A favorite quote for today..."With great power comes great responsibility."

Uncle Ben from Spiderman

One of my favorite things...laughter.

A few plans for the rest of the week: ortho, pick-up chickens, funeral, Mini Church.

A peek into my day...financial advisor appt., kids speech.

Homemade Sweet Cinnamon Rolls made with love.

YUMMY!!!

If you would like to participate with your own daybook or simply read other entries

please visit Peggy at http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Ruddie, the dog!

2011-12-29T10:58:00.000-08:00

I would like to introduce you to the new member of our household, Ruddie the dog!

Carter has been asking and asking for a dog and Troy had talked with me

and somehow convinced me that it would be good for him to have something to

take care of. He went on to sell it by telling me that it would help teach him

responsibility and yatta, yatta, yatta. Troy initially wanted to get him a Chinchilla.

As soon as I saw one, I quickly reminded him of the woman he had married and there would

be no way we would do that. Oh I almost forgot to say that our girl Tori, is allergic to

dogs and cats, so those were out too. Then it happened. On December 23, I popped on my

e-mail and there she was. Guinea pig in need of a good home, for FREE with cage and a few days food too. I don't know what came over me, but instead of hitting the delete button, I popped open the image and there she was staring at me. At this point, I had another choice.....pretend I never saw it or throw it out to the family and get their feed back. Needless to say the price was right for my husband and my boy was thrilled to finally have a pet he could call his own.

We are all still warming up to each other and the whole idea of something else depending on us to keep it alive. We hope we can do it. She is not a dog, but it's as close as we can get.

Who knew?

Simple Woman's Daybook entry

2011-12-29T10:33:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY: December 29, 2011

Outside my window...it's rainy and damp

I am thinking....grey hair isn't so bad.

I am thankful...I am able to be home with my kids.

From the learning rooms...video games, blog reading, and lego building.

In the kitchen...dirty dishes to be washed and clean ones to be put away.

I am wearing...my workout clothes, again.

I am creating...scrapbook pages for my kids yearbooks that I am making for them.

I am going...to the gym as soon as I can get motivated.

I am wondering...if I have truly given my best this year.

I am reading...some books on starting a business.

I am hoping...to finish some of the projects I have started.

I am looking forward to...my man having vacation these next couple days.

I am hearing...video game noises.

Around the house...left over signs of Christmas.

I am pondering...what this new year will bring.

One of my favorite things...is coffee with my husband.

A few plans for the rest of the week...New Year celebration with friends.

Here is picture for the thought I am sharing.

This was my kids favorite Christmas gift from their grandparents.

Sugar Cereal and White Bread. YIKES!!!!

______________________________

If you would like to participate with your own daybook or simply read other entries please visit Peggy at

The Simple Woman's Daybook.

~Thanks for stopping by, Connie

Word filled Wednesday

2011-12-21T14:58:00.000-08:00

Genesis 2:18
The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.
I will make a helper suitable for him.”

GIVEAWAY

2011-12-21T14:39:00.000-08:00

This will be my 1st ever Blog Giveaway! I'm so excited. Here is how it works. Just leave a comment telling me your favorite Christmas tradition. I will put your names in a hat and pull one out! If your name is drawn I will mail off my 1st batch of His Creation Cards to you. My giveaway ends tomorrow at noon. (that way I can get them in the mail right away.) I can't wait to hear from you.
Celebrating the King,
Connie

Simple Woman's Daybook entry

2011-12-19T09:35:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY: December 19, 2011

Outside my window...wind blown ice on the lake.

I am thinking...I need a shower.

I am thankful...for Christmas vacation!

From the learning rooms...finishing up literature reading.

The Hiding Place and Molly Learns a Lesson

In the kitchen...smelly, melted wax on

my stove top. What a mess.

I am wearing...my workout clothes.

I am creating...4 season photo cards for a give away. Stay tuned;)

I am going...to shop with my 8th grade girls D-team tonight.

I am wondering...if time will ever slow down.

I am reading...lots of blogs.

I am hoping...to be a blessing.

I am looking forward to...

having all my gifts in order.

I am hearing...Clone Wars music.

Around the house...lots of stuff to be dealt with.

I am pondering...how she is watching me and trying to be like me.

One of my favorite things...curling up on the couch with a cozy quilt and watching a movie.

A few plans for the rest of the week...a special birthday, Christmas celebrations.

Here is picture for the thought I am sharing.

Summer fun on the Crystal River.

______________________________

If you would like to participate with your own daybook or simply read other entries please visit Peggy at

The Simple Woman's Daybook.

~Thanks for stopping by, Connie

Choosing Sunshine Today!

2011-12-16T06:40:00.000-08:00

Today while working out, this song played in my ear.

It has inspired me to hand write my man a letter and send it to his work.

What it will say is just for us! I will tell you though it will bless him.

Hope you to will chose to walk on sunshine today.

Choosing Sunshine,

Connie

Got Plans?

2011-12-15T09:53:00.000-08:00

For the last 2 months I have done a meal plan. It has seemed to be working. It started with trying to get a handle on our food budget and eating healthy. You have heard it said, maybe even from my own lips, "It is so expensive to eat healthy." This can be the truth if you don't have a plan. As we revised our budget, we took a look at what we were spending and with the help of some library cookbooks, and recommendations from good friends I have managed to have a very reasonable 2 months. The cookbook I have been using a lot is called, Make it Fast, Cook it Slow by: Stephanie O'Dea. My favorite recipe, so far, has been the baked oatmeal bars. Yummy!

It's always sad when the month comes to an end, because it means I have to plan again. (This is the most challenging part for me.) Which brings me to today. Meal planning afternoon. I try to keep it in perspective and look ahead to the time when the planning comes to a full circle. My hope is once I get a year under my belt, then I can just revise the work I have already done. Who knows maybe it's a, spend wise, eat wise, cookbook, in the making! I laugh to even think that I would be able to put my name in the author spot of a cookbook, but who knows anything is possible. Time to plan.

Joyfully His,

Connie

Word filled Wednesday: only a day late! Better late than never.

2011-12-15T09:49:00.000-08:00

1 Chronicles 29:15

We are here for only a moment, visitors and strangers in the land as our ancestors were before us. Our days on earth are like a passing shadow, gone so soon without a trace.

2011-12-13T12:06:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...winter greens and bare red branches.

I am thinking...my house is to quiet.

I am thankful...that I am truly in love with my husband.

From the learning rooms...complaints about having to read about Hitler!

In the kitchen...lots of half-full and empty cups on the counter, books, pencils, and paper, too.

I am wearing...my favorite jeans and a Bronco sweatshirt.

I am creating...all occasion cards, HomeMade laundry soap, and essential oil air fresheners.

I am going...to talk with a financial guy about college tuition tonight. Yikes!

I am wondering...if I have done right by my kids.

I am reading..."Feathers from my Nest" by: Mrs. Beth Moore

I am hoping...that our Christmas tree will keep its needles until the 25th.

I am looking forward to...Carter's 12th birthday!

I am hearing...the quiet creative play of a child.

Around the house...wrapped gifts and projects waiting.

I am pondering...how it is going to all work out.

One of my favorite things...is my families laughter.

A few plans for the rest of the week: groceries, EAA, meal plan, and plan a birthday party.

Here is picture for the thought I am sharing...

Carter is one cool dude!

______________________________

If you would like to participate with your own daybook or simply read other entries please visit Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook. ~Thanks for stopping by, Connie

2 Teens for Us and we LOVE it!!!

2011-12-13T06:57:00.000-08:00

We make a big deal of "13" at our house. We believe it is the beginning of a transition into adulthood. We have a special ceremony where Tori will be challenged to live a life that few in our culture live today. She is encouraged to walk closely to the Lord and depend on him for discretion on how to live. It was a wonderful day and I am reminded again of what a privileged it is to be a parent. We love you Tori and are excited to share in this next stage of life with you.

Europe Day 11, Saturday, October 23rd, 2010

2011-08-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

No photos today. Every thing is packed and ready to go through customs. I have to say, "goodbye" to Troy then wait alone for my plane. He will be back on a train headed for Germany also by himself. O Lord, watch over us. It was harder to say goodbye than I thought. Seemed like it was going to be forever. My plane was on time and once in the air all was well. I plugged into a movie or 3 and all of a sudden, I noticed one of the flight attendants was rushing down my isle. As she pasted, I thought, she really shouldn't do that because it could cause unnecessary panic in the passengers. Then she did it again, and my stomach sank, I knew something was wrong. I unplugged my headphones and asked the guys to my left if they knew what was wrong. They didn't so I just prayed and waited. Then there was an announcement that someone was having a medical emergency and we would have to make a pit stop in Canada. SO we did. As we landed, I watched out the window and all I could see was TREES everywhere.......ummm, I'm not sure if this is really the place this guy wants to get off. I don't know whatever happened to the guy, but I hope he found some good medical care and it wasn't to far off. Then we were back on our way and when we landed in Detroit it was through customs and hurrying to find a connecting flight to get me home still that same day. I made it and had time to grab dinner before I was on my last leg. Landing in Appleton was awesome. My kids and mom were there to greet me with signs and BIG HUGS. They missed me and I them. It was a great trip and now we can't wait for Troy to get home, so our family will be complete again.

Europe Day 10 Friday, October 22nd, 2010/Den Haag

2011-08-09T10:47:00.000-07:00

Our last day in Europe together and we have to decide where to go. After closing our eyes and pointing on a map, we chose Rotterdam, but that turned out to be more that we planned on spending to travel there, so Den Haag was the 2nd choice.

Den Haag city center.

Turns out this is where the Royals are.

Cute bridal shop. High-end I am sure.

It was a chilly day so we stopped off at a D&E coffee shop.

YUMMMYYYY!

I wanted to take this sweet place home with me.

Loved the coffee and the brownie.

It was delicious.

My handsome husband.

Such a cute cake shop. This one is for you, Tori girl.

I wish I could share the wonderful smell from this place.

Bought these fresh for a souvenir for the kids.

They had these crazy statues all in a row.

I thought this looked like Mickey Mouses legs.

The other ones were a little crazy and

could be misinterpreted so I left those out.

The Library

Fun building of mirrored window.

Kissing in Europe:)

This was an exhibit to raise awareness for trafficking.

It was pretty powerful and absolutely heart-breaking.

This is a free public rest room. Yes, people really do use them.

I waited until it was open to take the photo.

My man and me, loving the stroll in Den Haag.

YUMMY PIZZA!

Yes, we ate all of our desert.

Today was my last day in Europe and it is bittersweet. I'm longing for a sight and hugs from my precious children, but will be leaving my husband behind. I loved our day in Den Haag. We walked a lot and just enjoyed the beautiful scenery. It was a wonderful trip and I am so glad I got to experience it with my wonderful husband. Tomorrow I will officially say goodbye to Europe and spend the day in airports as I journey home. It will be the first time I ever fly alone. Thanks Den Haag for the wonderful memories of my last day in Europe.

Europe Day 9 Thursday, October 21st, 2010

2010-10-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

After yesterdays big day of being in the car today was a total work day for Troy and I did some laundry. I know, right, laundry in Europe, UGGGG. So needless to say there wasn't to much to take photos off. You seen on laundry room, you've seen them all. But it just wouldn't be right to not take any photos on day 9 in Europe so we took some of ourselves. Tomorrow will be our last day together in Europe.

Europe Day 8 Wednesday, October 20th, 2010

2010-10-24T17:08:00.000-07:00

View from our hotel skylight. So sad it is raining.

Name of our cute hotel.

Part of our hotel. As I was taking the photo, I realized there were people in the window of the one room. They closed up everything right after I took this photo. Who knew I was really the paparazzi.

The front of our hotel.

Building across from our cute hotel.

Outdoor patio.

Outside eating patio at our hotel. So beautiful even in the rain. I loved the statue. Notice the thighs, they aren't scrawny, there full. Love it.

Most of the buildings still have the white metal roll downs to cover the windows from WWII.

I think this sign says the name of the place we were staying in, but I'm not totally sure of where we even were staying. Crazy!

Watch tower still stands from the days of the Berlin Wall.

Flying on the Autobahn!

Graffiti here, graffiti there, graffiti everywhere.

Troy working by way of his phone.

Today I was suppose to sight-see around town while Troy worked and I woke up to the sound of rain:( Bummed. We were only going to be here long enough for the guys to do some work then we were back on the road headed to the Netherlands. Lots of car time and the only photos I got today were right around our hotel.

Europe Day 7 Tuesday, October 19th, 2010

2010-10-21T13:39:00.000-07:00

Our hotel in Warburg.

Inside the lobby of our hotel from the loft breakfast area.

The table below was where we had the most delicious food of my life. It was beautiful.

The view from our hotel loft eating area.

Tour of Warburg.

The wall that you see was the original wall that protected the castle that use to be there in the 14oo's.

A beautiful sitting area.

Famous Artist who lives there.

Turns out after our tour, I realized his art was displayed in our hotel.

This is where people got there food for the day, fresh.

Loved Warburg, but then it was time to go on to the next town.

This was the next hotel we found ourselves at.

This was the key we had. It was a serious key chain. I don't think you would forget to hand it in when you check out. It was huge.

Here is my working man. Even into the late night hours and with a stuffed up head.

Europe day 6 Monday October, 18th, 2010

2010-10-21T08:37:00.000-07:00

Belgium Castle

Castle grounds

Welcome to Germany

Phone booth

Almost to our destination!

Our room at the Romantik Inn

Co-worker after dinner~business or pleasure:)

We have officially started our driving part of the trip. The morning we finished up in Belgium with a whirlwind tour of a Castle and ended our day with a fantastic dinner in Warburg, Germany. When I say "fantastic dinner", I mean, it was FANTASTIC! Honestly, it was the best meal I have ever eaten in my whole entire life. If only it would have been appropriate for me to take photos of the food I got to eat, I would have. It was food that just stepped off the pages of the best food magazines or shows you have ever seen. (we were with a customer, so I had to act like a proper lady, not so much like a tourist;) This meal deserves a post all of its own. Although, now that I think about it, I'm not really sure what the food was called. I almost forgot how that all went down. HA, funny story. I was looking at the menu, that was all in German, and I couldn't read. Then when it came time to order, I ordered only an "starter" and said that was all I wanted and our hosts and the waitress all looked at me like I was crazy~so being the submissive wife that I am, I looked at Troy and said, I don't know what I should do. So I ended up just saying I would have whatever the wife of our host was having. At this point, I was really nervous, because I had no idea what was going to come out and knew I had to choke it down no matter if I liked it or not. Praise God it was delicious. Our hotel was adorable and wish we could have stayed longer.

Europe Day 5 Sunday, October 17th, 2010

2010-10-17T14:24:00.000-07:00

Brussels, Belgium City Center

The way the Belgium's serve up the waffels.

Yummy!!!!!

The smell of chocolate filled the streets~this was one of my favorite things.

I even eat chocolate like a tourist. I bit into it and powder(chocolate) went all over my face and coat. Nice, right?!

This was a spectacular building!

I thought this would be a good spot for him to give me a diamond and re-propose to me like in the commercial, but he didn't seem to think this would be quite the right spot. I think he even got sweaty palms at my suggesting it. Not so much the proposing part, but the diamond. I have a ton more photos from Brussels, but didn't have time to post because it was late. So this is just a taste of Brussels for now.

Europe Day 4 Saturday, October 16th, 2010

2010-10-17T14:12:00.000-07:00

Zanndam is the suburb of Amsterdam and this is where our hotel was.

These 2 photos are of us goofing around as we waited for our train to the city, right before we realize we are not in the right spot, imagine that.

Troy trying to figure it out so we don't miss the train.

Ok, this is it.

We did the brewery tour and had a lot of fun. The smell reminded me of when I was a kid and my aunt use to take me to the brewery's in Milwaukee each summer.

This one was for my boys who love James Bond.

Strolling through Amsterdam.

Like my new shoes?

Taking a small break to rest our feet and warm up in the sun. It is pretty chilly.

This car is crazy small.

Graffiti is everywhere. I wonder if they like it or not?

Back in Zandamm, for our last visit to our favorite ice cream shop.

Zandamm was like a ghost town when we got there. Seems most places close at lunchtime on Saturday and don't re-open until Monday. So glad our doner and ice cream place were open.

Goodnight and goodbye Zandamm. Tomorrow we are off to Belgium.

Europe Day 3 Friday, October 15th, 2010

2010-10-15T12:47:00.001-07:00

Beautiful church

Beautiful Hotel named after my mom;)

Central Train Station

Bikes falling in the canal, bummer!

Door to Anne Franks Secret Annex.

We were going to do the tour of the brewery, but showed up 30 minutes late. Oh well, we will go tomorrow.

Troy in our cover canal bus. Refuge from the rain we had been walking in all day.

Me, in our covered canal bus after being in the rain all day. It was warm too. Praise God!

As we rode in the canal bus the lights came on the bridges. It was so cool. Would have been more romantic if we weren't so soggy.

Dinner at the Pasta Bar. It was good.

Here we are on the train back to our hotel. It was a double-decker one this time. FUN.

We were trying to figure out what the picture rules all mean't. No smoking, no talking(this one took a little time to figure out), no cell phones, and no pretending to be Jesus on the cross?!? The last one stumped us. We still have no idea.

We survived day 3 without being run over by a car, bike, bus and today they added in the tram. Honestly, you have to be careful crossing the street and if you think your on a sidewalk you had better be alert, because at anytime a car could be coming straight at you. It is dangerous walking. They don't seem to appreciate those who walk as we do back home. We have breakfast included at our hotel and it is a buffet style, which is a great way to try their foods. We had some cute little rectangle pastries with chocolate in the middle and they were excellent. We had some granola and that was great too. My only problem was I couldn't find any milk to put on it so I ended up using half and half. (at least I think that was what it was) Troy seemed to find the milk ok, I don't know what my problem was, maybe I was still sleepy. The fog welcomed us yesterday and today we were accompanied by rain for the duration of our museum tour through Amsterdam. It was damp and cold, so we were thankful for the canal bus ride from place to place. At the end of the day, we were looking for a place to eat and being the tourist we are took about 4 steps into the "Red Light District" before realizing it and turned right back around and made haste out of there. On our canal bus tour they told us about the first Protestant Church and it was beautiful and my heart cheered to think of the hope of Christ in the middle of such sinful living that goes on here. Then he proceeded to tell us that now days they have concerts and ballets. Boo Hoo! Seems they should be reading the word of God to give these people freedom from sin, hope and healing. As we looked for a place to eat dinner we stumbled about 4 steps into the "Red Light District" before we realized and then high-tailed it out of there. After we ate we talked about how ironic it is that such a place is literally build on sand. Earlier in the day we meet some people from Canada and they shared we just have to see the "Red Light District". But to be honest, we saw a group of youth rolling a joint, men who live an alternative lifestyle, and some graphic window displays and that was plenty enough to break my heart over the captivity those people are in, I can't imagine being in the thick of it. So sad. Although, I saw a big building on our way to the train station that said, "Jesus loves you." and had a big arrow that was lite up saying "Green Light District". I hope to check it out tomorrow when we return to try to be like the locals and ride a bike around. Hopefully it won't be rainy.

World Traveler: Day 1/2ish: Europe/Zaandam, Netherlands

2010-10-14T08:45:00.000-07:00

This is the whether that welcomed us on Thursday morning. We left home on Wednesday and landed on Thursday, so we are a little jet lagged to say the least. We made it from the airport to the train to our hotel without a hitch.

Our hotel was the first thing we saw when we got off the train. It was pretty hard to miss;)

This is our room. Each door has a small picture of the theme of the room that is from Netherlands history. This is ours.

This is the lobby. It is so interesting that alot of stuff is in English and the background music in places is also English/American music.

The elevator. I love European design.

Just us with puffy, burning eyes. Is it bedtime yet?

Beautiful view on our stroll down the cobblestone roads.

I thought this cafe was so cool out front. Especially with the bikes.

In the back ground you can see the bank that we ended up at getting Euros~there is a funny story I will share below on that:)

Our first official meal in Europe. Chicken doner~YUM, seems to be enough said in any language! I loved it and hope to eat another before we leave here. Our server didn't speak much English and so we just did some pointing and nodding and it worked out well. We asked for a receipt and the poor guy had no idea what we were asking, so one of the customers heard us and said it in whatever they were speaking.

Next store to where we at dinner was this cute ice cream, coffee, and cupcake place. We learned here to ask if they spoke English and it made things a little easier.

All I can say is it was to die for! DELICIOUS!

My kids would have been in heaven. Troy had crunch and I tried the yellowish one with chocolate chunks in it. He said it had some ingredients from England in it. Very unique, but I loved it. They make it fresh daily.

This was the decore, so cute.

Oh yeah, it was good.

Today felt like we landed on Mars. We are exhausted for one and can speak or read any of the language which has proven to be a challenge to say the least. First off, at the airport getting a ticket for the train to our hotel was interesting. We got the ticket no problem, found where we had to board and as we stood there wondering what to do with our tickets the train left. HA! We decided we would just watch and see what everyone else was doing and do what they did. Eventually another train returned and got us to where we needed to be. Although, they don't mess around. You better get on when you need to and off, cuz they don't wait for nobody. We saw 2 women almost get squished by the door. Then we were on the hunt for a ATM machine to get some Euros and needless to say we had no idea what we were doing. So, again we were watching people at some machines that we thought were ATMs and then we were going to try to do what they did, but after 3 times of trying to figure it out I decided we should just ask some people who were using them. Turns out these machines were where they paid for their parking. Yes, we gave the 2 ladies that were helping us a good laugh and we had one to. Then they pointed us in the right direction. We have now been up for over 24 hours and keep checking the time so we can rest our weary heads. Tomorrow we will head to the City Center of Amsterdam. Hope to see where Anne Frank lived and eat some more wonderful food.

May Word: Guard

2010-05-24T06:53:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe May is almost over and I am just getting a minute now to post. I got my word about the 2nd week in, but things have been busy with birthdays and starting a new business. I have had quite an interesting month and am thankful for all the Lord is revealing in me and refining. Growth is never easy, but I am glad he loves me so much to keep showing me the sin that so entangles me. I think for the first time, in my walk with the Lord, I am looking forward to be free from it. I can almost taste the freedom that is to come once I walk through this valley.
I have 2 verses this month that I have clung to.

"Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. Practice these things, devote yourself to them so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers."
1 Timothy 4:13-16

"Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God?
Or am I trying to please men?
If I were still trying to please men,
I would not be a servant of Christ."
Galatians 1:10

God has shown me that my ability to preserver has grown weak and my desire to be liked and accepted by people has taken a front seat in my life. So I say once again, here I am Lord, teach me how to live as you would have me.

Praising Him for His goodness,
Connie

Kids Comfy Quilts.....

2010-04-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

The Front of Cater's.

Carter's back.

Tori's front.

Tori's back.

Trevor's back.

Trevor's front.

Quilt inspiration.....

2010-04-22T18:54:00.000-07:00

"Comfy Quilt"
Inspiration

One could say it was the motivation for marriage;) When Troy and I started to date it wasn't long before I stumbled on this hand made quilt his Aunt Brenda made for him. Whenever I would go to his place for a visit I would have him drag it out and it wasn't long it found its way to my house and I think I even remember thinking, "If we break-up, he is not getting this back." I LOVED this quilt. I used it on the couch, then would drag it to bed. It didn't even matter if it was summer, I used it. It was just the right weight and the fabric was comfy. Then, I'm not sure what happened, but it wasn't used for awhile and then when I stumbled on it this past December, it had holes and huge rip in it, and for a moment I thought it would be time to toss it out. As I stood with it in my hand, I realized, it was just to much a part of our life together and folded it up and set it in the blanket basket. Then it came to me. What a perfect thing to try my hand at quilting. (I couldn't wreck it any worse than it was.) So for a surprise, I fixed it up and gave it to Troy for a Christmas gift. He thought it was pretty cool. Then it happened. What you ask. The fighting. Troy was always happy to just let me have it when it was the 2 of us, but now there are 5 of us and it became the coveted blanket. UGGGGG. I had no hope. I was never going to get to use it again, thanks to our kids. No one even cared about this old rag 2 weeks ago. I must have done a wonderful job, since they all wanted it, so I decided to make each of them their own and hope they would love it just as much. So I got very busy picking out fabric, cutting, and sewing. I was intentional in all the fabrics that are on each quilt. There is a little piece of each of us on each quilt. Troy's old jeans, which he was surprised to have donated for the cause, my old favorite bib shorts, Trevors fabric from the rocking chair when he was a baby, Tori's library bag fabric, and Carter's favorite camo pants, etc., etc., etc. It took about 3 weeks to get them all done, but I did it. Now each of them have their own "Comfy Quilt" as I like to call them. I told the kids, that when it comes time, and they think they have found the person they want to spend the rest of their lives with, they just need to pull out their quilts and see if they love it and try to steal it and if they do, they will know their the one:)
Yeap, for me the only way to be sure to keep the quilt was to marry the man. Although, the man has reclaimed his "comfy quilt". So, I guess it's back to the sewing table for me:)
Loving Comfy Quilts,
Connie
(who would have thought, me sewing?)

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-04-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

Outside my window...
~lakeflies.

I am thinking...
~it is nice to be home.

I am thankful for...
~the Gospel of John.

I am wearing...
~my jammies.

I am remembering...
~my eternal life has begun.

I am going...
~to be content right where I am at.

I am currently reading...
~Unspoken: Bathsheba by: Francine Rivers

I am hoping...
~my friends little boy will get better soon.

I am hearing...
~the clock tick tock.

I am creating...
~a birthday surprise for our guests:)

In our schoolroom...
~the American Revolution.

On my mind...
~upcoming birthday celebrations.

Noticing that...
~I enjoy having a teenager.

Pondering these words...
"These are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier
and sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country;
but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman."
Thomas Paine 1776

From the kitchen...
~oh, what to make?, what to make?, that is always the question.

Around the house...
~15 year old sprawled out on the couch and Mr. Eastwood on the set.

One of my favorite things ...
~big bellied robins prancing in the yard.

Upcoming plans...
~clean, corrections, closing night of Joseph:)

A picture thought I'm sharing.....

~love my guy in a tie.

If you would like to join, here is the link: http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-04-13T15:30:00.000-07:00

Outside my window...~left over sawdust from a fresh cut tree.

I am thinking... ~ about a sweet evening alone with my husband.

I am thankful for... ~the privilege to raise 3 children of both genders.

I am wearing... ~tan shirt with white stripes, jean jacket, blue jeans.

I am remembering... ~to be more aware of my sin than others.

I am going...~to see my kids in the Joseph and the Amazing techno-colored Dreamcoat.

I am currently reading... ~The Quilts of Gee's Bend

I am hoping... ~I will stay caught up with my kids corrections.

On my mind... ~how to finish off our living decorating.

Noticing that... ~I have been pretty tired lately.

Pondering these words... ~"It has well been said that truth without love is brutality, but
love without truth is hypocrisy." Be Transformed

From the kitchen... ~piles and piles of stuff.

Around the house... ~ice cubes falling on the floor, water running.

One of my favorite things ...~warm breeze on my face.

A Photo Thought from my photo journal...

If you would like to join, here is the link: http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-04-08T13:34:00.001-07:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...
lots of beautiful April snow;)

I am thinking...
about how much I value my mom.

I am thankful for...
my hardworking husband.

From the learning rooms...
America's 13 colonies, Ben Franklin, Patrick Henry, Freedom.

From the kitchen...
some pans waiting to be washed and hung in place.

I am wearing...
my favorite jeans and my comfortable Purdue sweatshirt.

I am creating...
my first baby quilt for one of Troy's co-workers-hope it turns out nice.

I am going...
nowhere else today:)

I am reading...
Mary:Unafraid by Francine River, The book of John by God, and
Be Transformed a comentary.

I am hoping...
to see the sun very soon.

I am hearing...
my daughter tell me to "Go one more over" and my youngest make
sound effects while playing legos.

Around the house...
open Bible, cute kids, comfy quilt, and books waiting to be read.

One of my favorite things...
all my family in one room.

A few plans for the rest of the week:
dinner with my in-laws to celebrate my Father in-laws life.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

If you would like to join, here is the link: http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

April's Word

2010-04-05T12:57:00.000-07:00

Goodbye March and hello April. March days were very busy and seemed to fly by, but the overall month seemed to drag on.? It is really very confusing to me how that happens. But April is here and well on it's way. The lake has been set free from its ice cover and the sun has made it's appearance and so our hearts are longing for summer to come quickly. I found myself so very thankful for my word "Abide" last month, because I needed that reminder continually.
To be real honest, I have been really struggling with being irritable and short fused this last month. I have found my attitude to be very critical, and well, I'm sure you can get the idea.
This last Friday we had MC. We are doing a series on marriage called "When Marriage and Mercy Collide" from our friends old church in KY. It was the 2nd talk in the series and is proving to make me squirm a bit in my seat. It was then that the Lord started to move my heart in the direction of what He had to say to me. In the talk the Pastor asked the question, "What do you extend most to your spouse? Grace or Law?" Hmmm, I could ask myself the question even better~ "What do I extend to others in general, grace or law?" Oh, it didn't take me long to have an answer for that, being that my attitude has been critical, short fused, and irritable lately.
The pastor talked about being more aware of my own sin than the sin of others, and seeing it as worse, because it is mine. He also talked about how our circumstances are never the cause of our sin, it just reveals what has been in me all along. This was a good reminder and since it was Easter weekend, it made me realize anew the high cost that was paid for me sin.
My word for April, became clear this morning. It is "Grace". I will be focusing on it two-fold this month. 1st, the grace that I have been extended. 2nd Am I extending grace to others as I have been given or expecting others to live by the law?

Grace
"and the grace of our Lord
overflowed for me with faith and love
that are in Christ Jesus.
The saying is
trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance,
that Christ Jesus came into this world to save sinners,
of whom I AM FOREMOST.
But I received mercy for this reason,
that in me, as the foremost,
Jesus Christ might
display his perfect patience
as an example to those
who were to believe in him for eternal life.
To the King of ages,
immortal,
invisible,
the only God,
be honor and glory
forever and ever.
Amen"
1 Timothy 1:14-17

The Testimony

2010-04-05T12:16:00.000-07:00

I was inspired by LPM blog to share my testimony on Good Friday in few words. So, it sort of came to me in poetry form. Here it is:

27,
Broken hearted,
Marriage a mess,
pregnant again,
Invite to Bible study,
Read the Word,
Comfy blue chair,
Poured out
mercy and grace.
Soul saved,
Marriage repaired,
Family restored,
lives transformed.
Forever praising,
My Saviors name.

March Word

2010-03-01T14:48:00.000-08:00

Welcome March. Today I could smell spring in the air and breathed it in deeply. Last month, I was excited about the word "adoration" much more than January's word "repent". The funny thing about it, was, that I think I was more convicted this month than the last, because it was brought more to my attention of how very pathetic my act of adoration of the Lord is. Oh how I fall short in adoring Him as I should.
Lots of Bible study this month for me: D.A. Carson Prayer Conference, and Women's Retreat with Susie Larson. SO interesting that as I am learning and focusing on one thing, God is prepping for the next. As I sat with Him this morning it was pretty clear that my word for March should be "ABIDE". I have many verses and thoughts that brought me to this place, but I want my posts here to be straight to the point. I always post more details and much longer posts on my other blog if you are interested its listed on the side in my blog roll.(Hoehnes Family Space)
Otherwise here is the verse I will be focusing on for the month:

Zephaniah 3:17-20

The Lord your God is in your midst,
a mighty one who will save;
he will rejoice over you with gladness;
he will quiet you by his love;
he will exult over you with loud singing.
I will gather those of you who mourn for the festival,
so that you will no longer suffer reproach.
Behold, at that time I will deal with all your oppressors.
And I will save the lame and gather the outcast,
and I will change their shame into praise and renown in all the earth.
At that time I will bring you in,
at the time when I gather you together;
for I will make you renowned and praised among all the peoples of the earth,
when I restore your fortunes before your eyes, "
says the Lord."

February Word

2010-02-02T13:29:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe that January is over already. It was a month that had some pretty frustrating moments and being that my word was "Repent" I was quick to do that and had to do it plenty.
My Saviors hand was always tender in his rebuke and I am thankful. So as I started to ask the Lord, yesterday, what He would have for me in this month of Love, he showed me in my 2 scripture readings this morning. My February word is: ADORATION. It could not be more perfect. My heart has been properly prepared to adore my Lord.
Adoring Him,
C
P.S. I'm not exactly sure of the exact verse(s) I will be working on for memory, but will post when it is firmed up.

February Verse for me:
And they sing the song of Moses,
the servant of God,
and the song of the Lamb, saying,
"Great and amazing are your deeds,
O Lord God the Almighty!
Just and true are your ways,
O King of the nations!
Who will not fear,
O Lord,
and glorify your name?
For you alone are holy.
All nations will come and worship you,
for your righteous acts have been revealed."

A New Year

2010-01-13T19:58:00.001-08:00

A Word for me, from Him booklet.
One is filled,
the other blank.
What will this New Year bring?
Goodbye 2009, Hello 2010!
My word for January is: Repent!
Revelation 2:2-5
"I know your works, your toil and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false. I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my names sake, and you have not grown weary. But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the works you did at first."

Happy Birthday, Carter!

2009-12-19T20:16:00.001-08:00

Carter wanted to go play Laser Tag as a family for his gift this year. He was pumped for his first time playing. There was no one else there, just our family and we had a blast shooting eachother.

His code name was The C-Man.

Then today he had his party with his buddies and we went to the show to see "Where the Wild Things Are". It was an OK movie. But they all had fun.

Then his Grandma made him a Packer colored big cookie for our family party. (we thought about making him eat it outside;) We still haven't converted him to purple and yellow after 10 years of trying.

Miss Tori made him cupcakes that are delicious.

And a big breath to make a birthday wish!

Happy Birthday my sweet boy. We are beyond blessed to have you.
Love, Mom

Streets of Bethlehem

2009-12-19T19:40:00.000-08:00

Waiting in line, writing on the walls.
and tables, "What does Christmas mean to you?"

We were greeted by a camel. I think she likes Troy;)

The shepherds were so cool.

"Z" made the perfect Roman Guard.

Carpenters

Pottery

Fine fabrics for sale

Tori looking gorgeous in the fabric they tried to sell her.

"E" too.

Fine spices

Dancing

Doing the laundry on the rocks. (I'm thankful we don't have to do that anymore!)

Basket weaving

The Inn was full. No room for a pregnant girl.

For unto us a child is born. Emmanuel, God with us.

Traveling back to 2009....

He came so that we may have life, only because of his great love.

It was noisy, smelly, and there was lots of people. A lot like the first Christmas, I imagine. So many missed the entry of the King. Praying you wouldn't miss him this Christmas.
Thanks AAC and the people who put this together, it was well done.
Blessings,
C

Christmas traditions Part 1

2009-12-13T20:21:00.001-08:00

Our annual mini church white elephant party: My friend Kim sporting the "nice" brown leather vest from Troy.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

A white Christmas indeed.

Pictures, pictures, and more pictures....

Family

My "main" Man

Grandchildren

My sweet family

Cousins

Visit with Santa

The Jesse Tree: we are loving it. This is the first year we have ever stuck to doing a Advent tree.

Little gift for our neighbors, just to say, "Merry Christmas".

Visit from St. Nick

Finding the perfect spot for our Christmas Nail.

Finishing touch on the tree.

Grandpa Dan's to pick out the perfect tree for our house.

Word for me: December 09

2009-12-13T20:19:00.001-08:00

December word: Love

Word for me: November 09

2009-11-12T18:04:00.000-08:00

November word: Crucified

Word for me: October 09

2009-11-12T17:24:00.001-08:00

October Word: Chosen

Word for me: September 09

2009-11-12T17:08:00.000-08:00

September word: Arise

Word for me: August 09

2009-11-12T16:38:00.001-08:00

August word: Courage

Word for me: July 09

2009-11-10T22:21:00.000-08:00

July Word: Freedom

Word for me: June 09

2009-11-10T21:47:00.000-08:00

June Word: Broken

Word for me: May 09

2009-11-10T20:55:00.001-08:00

May Word: Perseverance

Word for me: April 09

2009-11-10T20:25:00.000-08:00

April word: Victory

Word for me: March 09

2009-11-08T19:43:00.001-08:00

March Word: Faith

Word for me: February 09

2009-11-08T18:28:00.001-08:00

February Word: Seek

Word for Me: January 09

2009-11-08T18:02:00.001-08:00

January Word: Joy
My New Years "Resolution" this year was to ask the Lord to give me a word for the month. He has been more than faithful and I love that I can post it with some of my favorite pictures from the year.

Bible memory for me......

2009-11-08T13:02:00.000-08:00

Ok, I have had a re-newed fire lit under me to be a little more intentional in memorizing God's Word. One of my sweet friends suggested our small group do it together and so I am excited about it. I also have been reading Beth Moore's blog and she started doing it through the blog at the beginning of this year and she has a little video that I watched yesterday and it had some great ideas to help. By the time I finished watching I was really excited. http://livingproofministries.blogspot.com/2009/01/scripture-memory-mini-tutorial_08.html
SO, the verse I am going to be tackling this month is Hebrews 10:22-24 ESV. I know this is more than one verse, but I love this whole piece of scripture and couldn't decide what not to memorize.

"let us draw near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir-up one another to love and good works...."

My plan is to add in verses 19-21 also, so this may take me through December. Otherwise, I will plan on 2 verses a month.
Being Transformed,
C

2009-10-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and
with all your soul and
with all your strength.
These commandments that I give you today
are to be upon your hearts.
Impress them on your children.
Talk about them when you sit at home and
when you walk along the road,
when you lie down and when you get up."
Deuteronomy 6:5-7

I am so thankful that
I have the relationship I have with my mother.
She also takes the command of this verse seriously
and walks alongside Troy and myself
and helps us in diligently training our children.

New Look

2009-10-13T14:15:00.000-07:00

Eye Doctor appointment!
New specs for me!
Hopefully, no more headaches!

Flag Football Champs 2009

2009-10-13T13:12:00.001-07:00

Here they are, the Champs.
Troy's team won the whole thing.
Not even 1 loss the whole season.
They celebrated by heading to Buffalo Wild Wings.

2009-10-09T07:53:00.000-07:00

Face to face at the cross again........

2009-10-02T14:15:00.000-07:00

I found myself face to face at the cross again in my quiet time this morning. I am using the book 90 with John to guide my bible reading and up until this morning, haven't really been understanding or hearing anything in particular. Today I read John 19:38-42. I have read this many times before, this morning it was different. The last few mornings I have read about the crucification and really pondered the thought that Jesus was beaten so badly that his appearance was disfigured. Normally, I don't ponder there to long, because honestly, I don't like to think about it, it makes me to sad. So in reading John 19:38-42, this was fresh in my mind.
"After these things Joesph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away his body. Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight. So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews. Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, since the tomb was close at hand, the laid Jesus there."
I never gave much thought much about Joesph or Nicodemus being the 2 chosen to take care of the body. Before they were fearful of what people would think and now had to dig deep to be the ones to take care of Jesus' body. I wonder if Joesph was nervous when he had to approach Pilate. Did his voice crack when he asked? Then they had to take Jesus from the cross to the nearby garden, not forgetting that his body was a bloody mess. Was it just the 2 of them in the tomb? As difficult as it all must of been, how intimate of a time with Jesus in the face of death. I wonder if as they tenderly wrapped his broken body if the cloth and spices were intermingled with their tears. I wonder if they understood that it was for their sins and mine that Jesus had died for. My heart breaks as I imagine the scene in the tomb. It causes me to become very serious about the choices I make, at least for now. I pray that I won't soon forget this precious time with Christ. I wonder if they knew that in 3 days the cloths they wrapped Jesus in would lay empty. Scripture leads us to believe they didn't. As I read I couldn't resist going to John 11:43:44~"Lazarus, come out."....."Unbind him, and let him go."
It is taken care of. Death does not rule any longer and I am so grateful. How precious is the blood of Christ. Though my sins are as black as the shirt I wear as I type, I have been washed as white as snow. Praise God for His wonderful mercy.
Humbled,
Connie

Summer Update

2009-07-23T13:42:00.001-07:00

Summer is officially half over and for me it is time to get serious about making sure I have all the subjects and books my kids need for this year. Plus, spreadsheets with somewhat of our High School plan for Trevor. High School, I can't believe it.

This summer has been filled with softball, softball, little baseball, little swimming, and food. It has been non-stop and just this week I had one day that wasn't full and honestly, I wasn't sure what I should do with myself. My motivation level is low to do the things that need to be done, so I'm hoping somehow I will be refreshed. Our big vacation to MI is in a few weeks and though I am excited to be away 7 whole days, I know that on our return it will be time to say "farewell" to our summer days and back to the school year schedule. So needless to say, I'm praying for a new attitude and motivation. Oh, I almost forgot, we are considering purchasing a R.V.!!! HA! We have done the research and now we will take one more look at it and see if they will take our offer. If they do, we will be rolling our way all over the U.S. Can't you just picture it! Friends who live far away, beware we just might show up on your door step to celebrate Christmas with you like in National Lampoons Vacation. I love that part when the brother-in-law shows up. I think I'm going to rent that. Maybe R.V. too, with Robin Williams. HA
I will keep you all posted on the R.V. status because I know you will be waiting by your computers to find out what we decide.
Thats where were at,
Connie
PS. this is not the actual one we are looking at, this is just to help you visualize what's to come possibly:)

Flowers for Me

2009-06-30T13:35:00.001-07:00

This is what I love about being a Mom.

Fresh picked flowers from the garden tied with a ribbon.

Love my new camera and my kids too!

2009-06-24T21:23:00.000-07:00

This was the beautiful garden area at the hotel we stayed at in St. Charles, IL. We had a lot of fun together while Troy was busy working. I was so thankful for the time and the smiles they so graciously humored me with. They are so precious to me and an absolute joy to be with.

How I remember it.....

2009-06-24T21:20:00.000-07:00

About 18 years ago, I was a working college student. It was a Thursday and I had school most of the day and then I was off to work until about 6ish. After work, the plan was to meet over at my moms home and go for dinner and my cousins graduation ceremony. It was a beautiful day out all day until I was finished with work, then it looked as if a storm was brewing. It was gray and it looked like the sky would open up at any moment the rain would poor down. I remember being dressed in a black and white check suit-like coat with puffy shoulders and a black skirt. Though the storm was coming, it was very warm and I was looking forward to beating the storm home, and cooling off some before we had to leave for the graduation. My job was a floater at a day-care and this was in the days before everyone had a cell phone, so I kept getting phone messages from people. I wondered why they wouldn't wait until I got home to let me know what the "plan" was for later. Little did I know what would all transpire in the next hour.
I drove over to my moms and my step-dad had meet me in the driveway as I approached the house and asked how I was doing. I said I was fine, but really hot. As we got closer to the house he said he had to tell me something, so I stopped and face him. The next thing he said is that my friend Jennie, had killed herself. I replied, "What?" He then told me again and this time it sunk in enough to get me to repeatedly say, "No, no, not Jennie. Why? What happened? Not Jennie, not Jennie! At this point I was hysterical and my mom had opened the door to let me in and heard what I was saying, and she asked, "What? Jennie? She then said, "It wasn't Jennie, it was Stephanie." Now, my mine is trying to process the information and figure out what is going on here. Then I see Troy come from the other room and I'm wondering what he is doing there, because he wasn't suppose to be. Turned out he was in a car accident prior to the news and when he called his parents they told him what had happened, so they brought him over to be there for me. Both my mom and Troy hugged me and from then on things get pretty blurred. It was a whole week until the funeral and I'm not sure what all transpired in between time. I remember hearing this version of what had happened. She had been under the influence and made some phone calls to her ex-boyfriend who was at the bar, then talked with him and then he hung up on her and she called back and talked to his good friend who was with him. Some said that she was threating to take her life on the phone and he didn't do anything. (Whether this is true or not, I don't know, it's just what I remember about what was said) She was in the living space in the basement across from her old bedroom that her sister was asleep in when she did it. Her sister is the one who found her. I think she left a note, but I thought I heard that they didn't know if it was written specific to this time. These are the things that have played over and over in my mind for 18 years. Along with things like.....we had plans, why didn't she call me?, she was getting her GED, she just got a new job, she was going to be getting a car of her own. Oh how I hate it even still today. I remember piling into a friends car to head to the airport to pick-up my friend Jennie. Turns out in my grief I took us to the wrong airport! Dah! We did pick her up but I don't remember much about the ride, besides staring out the window and the tears rolling down my cheeks every so many miles. Next thing I remember, is it was time for the funeral. I wore a black velvet dress, with some white lace on the neck line and puffy sleeves of course. I can't remember if their was a Friday evening showing, or if everything happened on Saturday morning. All I remember is Saturday, we went to the funeral home and looking at a silverish, shiny blue, casket with a picture of my best friend sitting on top. I was numb with sadness and remember sitting in the middle of the room surrounded by friends. I was holding a yellow rose that I was given and instructed to, at the appropriate time, walk by the casket and put it in a green vase. I wonder if I talked to anyone? Her aunt sang along with a tape, the song "Friends". And then it was over, but not really. Not for me. I still wrestle and it's been 18 years.

A Healing Heart......

2009-05-11T11:03:00.000-07:00

As I read the old newspaper clippings~it seems part of my heart has been frozen in time.
The ache has pasted, but a longing still remains.
For 18 years it has seemed easier to keep my heart froze than to have to deal with the longing and hurt.
Whenever my heart longed to be soft~it was fear that kept it hard.
My hope was not to forget.
It was your laugh that I would miss.
I remember times when I would close my eyes and think real hard to try to hear it.
For awhile I could hear it in my mind.
As time went on and life pick-up, it became harder to hear.
Then the dreams would come.
You were there and I would try to talk with you, but you wouldn't speak, almost as if you couldn't.
I would press you and press you with question after question and then I would awake.
We never ended up roommates, you missed my wedding, and my kids.
Seems with each phase or milestone in life I would wonder what it would be like if you were here.
So my heart would stay froze, to avoid the pain of it.
I have seen suffering and death many times since, and always wonder why I am not effected as others.
Is it my great strength?~Likely not.
My guess now is that this old heart has learned to be numb and froze when it is suppose to be soft and tender.
Many times I would replay what I remember, never really realizing, I have many blank spots.
For the first time, God is giving me the courage to remember, really remember!
What's to become of it all~I don't know, but I know that in order for this old heart to heal it needs to remember.
Will the longing ever be gone?
Likely not, but no longer do I fear.
Lord a tender heart is what I long for.

"When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid....
You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your book?"

Psalm 56:3-4;8-9

2009-04-22T10:38:00.000-07:00

Word filled Wednesday

My Sweet Child

2009-04-15T17:28:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I woke up to these little pink post it notes all over our house with encouraging and loving words from my sweet child. She had strategically placed them in all the spots that I visit daily. The glasses I use for OJ in the morning, OJ in the refridge, the computer screen, and when I thought I had found all of them there was still one to be found. When it came time to correct her math, I found my favorite one. In the correction manual the note she left said, "I love when we get to spend time together." She blessed my day.

Tori's SOL

2009-03-23T14:03:00.001-07:00

Just for the record: Troy would hate this photo, due to the double chin thing going on, but I couldn't bring myself to change it, because my sweet daughter picked it out herself.

SOL/Tori: Rainy Days

2009-03-11T12:36:00.000-07:00

SOL/Connie: "Sew" Sweet

2009-03-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to me early, way early!!!
My dear sweet Mom, insisted that as I begin the clothing quilts for my kids graduation, that I make them on a machine that has the capability to sew a straight line.
"Sew" she took me out on Saturday and bought me this sweet thing!
It was on sale for $100 off!
It is amazing compared to the machine I was using.
It's quiet, smooth, and look how many different stitches I can do.
Now, only to find time to play!!!!!
Thanks Mom, your the best.
Connie

SOL/Connie: Promotion

2009-03-10T12:07:00.000-07:00

Here in our bedroom oasis, tucked in the corner, a treadmill stands in its upright position. No longer does it wait to be ran on, because it has been transformed into a dvd, and TV box, entertainment center. I'm sure that it was content with that roll, until the most recent promotion that my dear husband has received. Little did we know, (both the treadmill and I) that we to would be in store of a promotion. The treadmill, has now become a place for any clothes that need ironing. This is the place they hang, just waiting for me to grab a hold of them and massage all the wrinkles out. For years, the Mister, has been asking for this to be done for him, and for years, I have promised that when the kids were gone I would gladly do all the ironing his heart desired. Little did I know that I would be promoted to the Head Ironing Lady so soon. I have 2 choices, 1. I could be haunted by the clothes that hang there and call out to me every time I enter the oasis of our bedroom. Or 2. I could somehow embrace this promotion and do it with joy. As of now, I have chosen #2. When the clothes beckon me before the rightful time, I pray that he would have eyes only for me and that he is safe where ever he might be the next time he is wearing that outfit, because his new promotion doesn't only require nice clothes, but times of travel. When the time of ironing is at hand, I pray for each part of his body that the piece of clothing covers. So I'm enjoying and embracing this new promotion, and can only hope as time goes on I will be a master at my trade. As for the treadmill, it already has surpassed all that we could have possibly asked of it.
Connie

SOL/Connie: An Anxious Heart

2009-03-10T11:59:00.000-07:00

Snow covered ground, the reminder of death that lingers at the door.
Puddles and ducks reveal the coming of spring and new life.
It won't be long now and the rains will come and wash the snow away completely, just as the drops of my dear Saviors blood has washed my sin covered life.
Soon the world will be changed and all of creation will be singing and dancing-full of life, and the snow covered ground will only be a memory.
O' anxious heart, be still and wait, for it won't be long now.
Connie

SOL/Tori: Pen Pal

2009-03-06T07:27:00.000-08:00

SOL/Connie: Reflections on Retreat

2009-03-06T06:06:00.000-08:00

In a quiet time recently God spoke Isaiah 61 to me: "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners...."
Last weekend, God used this once bound, broken-hearted, and poor in spirit woman to pray with others to be free. How humbling it is to live out the word of God.
Connie

SOL/Connie: 6 AM

2009-03-06T05:38:00.000-08:00

For sometime now, I have felt the nudge to get my day started a little bit earlier then normal. The nudge sometimes comes from the Holy Spirit, Troy, or in this case the 2 sweet little children were caring for this weekend. Sleeping is always a concern with little ones, especially when they aren't in there own beds. Laying them down last night went exceptionally well. The baby fell right to sleep in my arms at around 7 pm. What precious days. Then the little one, I laid down at 8 pm. She went down without a peep. We went to bed and I had a taste of victory and high hopes of sleeping peacefully all night. Though it wasn't long and around 11pm, Troy, rolls over and says, "The baby is crying." My response was, "What?" And so he repeated himself, and again, I was a little confused. Then I realized, oh the baby......so I sprang up to see what was the matter, as I tried to recall the list of things to do that was sent with them from their mother. I don't remember her saying anything about 11pm? Then, I began to pray, Oh Lord, please let it only be that I have to cover him up and stick his nuk in! As I stumbled my way in the dark, I opened our creaky door as quietly as I could, only to find a bundle of blankets! Where was the baby? My heart started to quicken as I pulled back the beautiful quilt once used by my kids, and there he was fussing in his sleep. I breath a sigh of relief and straighten out his bedding and he is restful once again. Back to bed I go, hoping to find peaceful rest once again. Next thing I know, I hear a little crying voice, calling for her mommy. Up I spring once again, and peek at the clock only to see the numbers 5:54 AM. In my mind I think that this may be a long day. I make my way to the next room and pick up that sweet child who is wondering where in the world she is and I remind her of her stay at the Hoehne house. She settles quickly in my arms, and rests her head on my shoulder. Should I try to lay her back down or is it really time to get started. I decide to try laying her back down, just for a little bit longer, Lord! Not, today! Today I will start my day at 6AM! When is naptime, anyways?\
Connie

Sol/Tori: Taco Dip

2009-03-02T16:27:00.000-08:00