Looking Back...A Day to Remember!

Caden was excited to be baptized on July 3, 2011.  I heard about the excitement about five times this day... "I can't wait to be baptized."

Caden asked Jesus into his heart in the Fall of 2010 (6 years old) and was ready to tell the world.  Can you see the JOY!?

  

He was blessed to be baptized along with 71 others believers under the crosses. 

For God so loved the world,

that he gave his only begotten Son,

 

that whosoever believeth in him...

 

should not perish,




but have everlasting life!

  

John 3:16

 Our dream for you Caden is to love God with all your heart, with all your strength, and with all your soul...to make a difference for Christ.

 



May God's light SHINE through your life.

We are proud of you!  We love you Caden!

Thank you Grandma, Aunt Tara, Uncle Rodney, Devin, and Sharee for sharing in Caden's special day!

Psalm 23...By the Boys

I believe hiding God's word in our hearts is a valuable tool for ourselves, but also a gift to give to our children. Why should we hide God's word into our hearts? Psalm 119:11 says, "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you."

I have found that kids tend to memorize things easier than adults at times. The boys have memorized various verses through Sunday school, Upward Basketball, and at home. The first verse I recorded from home was The Lord's Prayer. The next big verse is Psalm 23. I shared not too long ago one way I help my boys memorize scripture, in the car.






Over a month later after studying and memorizing this particular Psalm, the boys still know it and want to share it with you. Caden's video would not load, so I will be sharing that hopefully next Sunday. Even though it is showing black for some reason, it still works.

Random Acts of Kindness Tree

For some reason, I begin to notice lately that I was not being very positive with my family. I was seeing all the wrong things going on, and found myself not complimenting or encouraging anyone much. Plus the boys seemed to be fussing with each other more, so I decided to take action. I did two things which I feel made a big difference in our family. I ended up taking the Wii away for the month of February (That is the only video game system we have) to see if that would help the boys because they fussed a lot when playing. "Why did you do that"..."Ugh, you made me die", etc.

The second thing I did was to get some branches from the yard and make a Random Acts of Kindness tree. Michael tried to spray paint the branches for me, but two cans of the white spray paint...neither would work. I guess in below freezing weather you really can't spray paint easily. Well, I was determined to make my idea work anyway. It does not have to be anything really creative, although it certainly could be. My goal was to implement it right away.

Our RAC tree...

It sits on our dining room table, but I could not get a good picture there.

The first thing I did was cut out a LOT of red hearts. After all, it is the month of LOVE. I knew I would also be using the hearts for a creative photo shoot. Next, I explained to the family that anytime someone does something kind or good, it would be written on a heart and hung on the tree. We talked about what random act of kindness was and gave some examples like during our 12 days of giving where a lot of the giving was just random acts of kindness. The boys seem to be excited from the get go especially when they were surprised with a new heart. However, they could not ask to get a heart when they did something good, even though they tried to.

To make it easier, I have a basket of hearts tied with twine and a pen on the table that are ready to be written on. It really has helped me to look for the positive each day. This has been a great way of showing love in our family. I plan on doing something special with all the hearts that are written on in the near future.

What random acts of kindness have you shown to your family lately?

12 Days of Giving Wrap Up...

Wow, another year has come and gone. I welcome 2010, a new year and decade. This is a wrap up of our 12 days of giving our family did this year. The first four days were a lot of fun. We have really enjoyed doing this hope to make it a tradition.

Day 8: Tipping

One of my funnest and cheapest giving stories so far has to be the skater dude! One late night after shopping all evening, I pull into Sonic to order me a drink. I had planned on using a $5.00 to pay and give the rest as a tip. It was pouring down rain. I look in my mirror and see a teenager skating along to my car. I said, "you are just too cool". He then replied how he was having an awful night. I told him that I hope things look up for him soon. I handed him the $5.00 and said, "I hope you have a Merry Christmas!" His face was priceless when he realized I didn't want change. It was less than $3.00. (Well, his tip was more than my total.) Anyway, he smiled and thanked me and skated off. As I backed out, I happened to glance in the window of Sonic. He waved real big and flashed another cute smile. That was fun to know I helped make his night just a little better! I would have LOVED to be able to hand him $100.00 bill. How cool would that be.

Day 7: Drive Thru Treat

Another before Christmas shopping night in town, and yet another fast food place...sigh.

Anyway, this night I grabbed a kids cheeseburger and a water. When I went to pay, I felt led to pay for the person behind me. I ended up paying ~$10.50 for the elderly lady behind me. I hope it brought a smile to her face. It's fun being sneaky.

Day 6: Teacher gifts

I made white chocoate popcorn this year for teacher gifts. This is the packaging I did for Caden's K teacher, Ms. Reeves. I will be making this again. It was so good!





Cameron's 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Butler sent a letter home requesting in lieu of a teacher gift that she would like us to put that money toward kids in India. She partners with another teacher who does a lot with a program to help kids there. I couldn't just donate money and not do at least a little something for her. So I did a small popcorn bag for her. Michael said she wouldn't stop raving about it! She ate at least half of the bag during the party.

Cameron and Mrs. Butler

Day 5: We made a cash donation. There were ample ways to give through the school.



Day 4: Neighbor gifts

I made the Pioneer Woman's cinnamon rolls for my neighbors and some friends.

We had a great time delivering the homemade goodies. While dad was shopping and at the movies with our oldest, Aaron, the boys and I headed out. We went caroling to our closest elderly neighbors, Don and Colleen. We sang "We wish you a Merry Christmas." It was funny because we sang to Don. As we were leaving we noticed Colleen on the treadmill watching T.V. She didn't even know we were there. They are great neighbors.

Our next stop was a neighbor who is a widow. We talked about how the bible talks about taking care of the widows and orphans. We did not get to visit with Caroline because she was not home. However, we promptly received a nice thank you note from her.

We then traveled on and dropped off some goodies to a single mother of 3. The Lord put Montee and her children on my heart. When I had a long term sub assignment, the class got a new student, Vivinne. Her mother moved from another state due to a divorce. Before the 9 weeks were over, Vivinne was hit by a truck while trying to get on a bus. She flew into the air doing several flips. Thank God she was alive. She did have to have surgery on her leg. I volunteered to tutor her in her home until she could return to school. She returned after two weeks, and just recently got out of her wheelchair, although now she will use a walker for at least six weeks. Her mom shared with me how the divorce was a total shock. I know they have been through a lot! She and the kids were so happy to see us.

Our final stop was a great friend of mine who has had a really tough year battling cervical cancer. She has been through surgery and now is in remission, praise the Lord. We visited with her for a little while and got to see her new puppies.

Day 3: Homemade dollar soap for Caden's class and our Sunday school kids gift.

Caden wanted to make our $ soap for his classmates. Cameron gave this to his classmates for three years. It was always a big hit. Since Caden is in K, it is his turn now.

Our sweet Sunday School class...the 3 year olds. Michael doing the Donald Duck impersonation.


A gift for the Sunday school kiddos! Just a recycled soup can dressed up.



Day 2: St. Jude's Ranch for Children


What do you do with all those Christmas cards you receive each year? Are you a saver or tosser? I am a saver. This year I plan to make albums for the picture cards. I am saving about 30 of my other favorite cards I've kept over the years for a project. Then, I am sending the rest to the St. Jude's Ranch for Children. Go here to learn more about this wonderful program. They take all kinds of cards and turn them into new cards.

You can mail your card donations to:
St. Jude's Ranch for Children
Recycled Card Program
100 St. Jude's Street - Boulder City, NV 89005

Day 1: Opening our home up to a stranger

(Written by Michael) On my way home one evening I saw a motorcycle broke down on the side of the road. I stopped and offered assistance. Turns out he is from Kansas and is on his way to Little Rock for a motorcycle rally when he had a flat tire. I brought him to our home and called a wrecker. It took about two hours for the wrecker to show up. While we waited we had pizza, and found him a hotel room and a motorcycle shop in the area. He was very grateful.

There are so many different ways to give. I want to be a better giver this year....even more courteous and polite. From letting cars out that are waiting, letting someone go in front of me in a checkout, smiling at complete strangers, paying for someones meal at a drive thru, and helping out at church with the blessing baskets. If you open your heart to give, there are ample opportunities every single day. It feels so good to be a giver!

12 Days of Giving...Let it Begin!

Our 12 days of giving have taken off. It is an exciting time of the year. Here are a few of the ways we have given so far. We have not been giving for 12 consecutive days, due to myself getting sick. However, we are committed to giving at least 12 days before the new year.

Day 12: Operation Christmas Child.

This is what started the giving snowball.

You can read about OCC here.

Day 11: We sent 12 books out to the winners of my giveaway. One even to Jo in Australia! All 13 people who commented before the giveaway ended will have something in their mailboxes soon! (Still waiting on Jen's address.)

Day 10: Boat of Coats for kids. The school is collecting coats for kids in need at the school. If there are any remaining coats they will go to the Salvation Army to help local families in need. Cameron's dropping a O'sh Kosh coat off at the canoe.

Day 9: Donating money to Salvation Army kettle cans at our local Wal-Mart.

How are you giving this season?

12 Days of Giving With a Give Away!

Can you believe there are only 12 days until Christmas? My family is participating in the 12 days of giving. I saw this idea from Heidi and loved it. She has some great suggestions on what can be given. We are on board. I want this Christmas to be our best yet, not by what we receive as gifts, but because what we give out of love this year.

It all started when I was a young girl. It was one of my favorite Christmas memories. I don't remember all the gifts I received throughout the years, however I remember one particular year. This year we went and bought groceries to give to a family living down the road in an really old trailer home. We fixed up a beautiful large fruit basket. I remember driving there and secretly dropping the basket off on their steps. It was pure joy for me to be a part of that. Thank you mom, for being a model giver!

The plan is each day we will be giving in some shape or fashion. Some will be planned, some spontaneous. We have made a list of ideas, but want to be open to opportunities God lays on our heart.

The first thing I want to do is give to you! That's right YOU! You have blessed me this past year with your kindness and friendship, it's my turn to give something back. I have been reading a wonderful Christmas story, The Christmas Box by Richard Paul Evans. I have 12 copies of it to give away!

So, what do you have to do to win a copy of this book. Leave me a comment! That's it.
If I have more than 12 comments, I will do a drawing. The giveaway will end Tuesday at 6:00 P.M. so I can get your book out to enjoy it or give as a gift.

Let's remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'

Are You Getting Enough Vitamins?

Anxious- Take Vitamin A...."All things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)

Blue- Take Vitamin B...."Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His Holy name." (Psalm 103:1)

Crushed- Take Vitamin C.... "Cast all your care on Him, because he cares for you."(1Peter5:7)

Depressed- Take Vitamin D...."Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." (James 4:8)

Empty- Take Vitamin E...."Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name." (Psalm 100:4)

Fearful- Take Vitamin F...."Fear not, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God." (Isaiah 41:10)

Greedy- Take Vitamin G...."Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put unto your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back." (Luke 6:38)

Hesitant- Take Vitamin H...."How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces Salvation, who says to Zion,'Your God reigns." (Isaiah 52:7)

Insecure- Take Vitamin I...."I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."(Philippians 4:13)

Jittery- Take Vitamin J...."Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."(Hebrews 13:8)

Know nothing- Take Vitamin K...."Know this that the LORD is God, it is He that made us and not we ourselves. (Psalm 100:3)

Lonely- Take Vitamin L...."Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."(Matthew 28:20)

Mortgaged- Take Vitamin M...."My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Nervous- Take Vitamin N...."Never, no never will I leave you nor forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5)

Overwhelmed- Take Vitamin O...."Overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:21)

Perplexed or puzzled?- Take Vitamin P...."Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27)

Quitting- Take Vitamin Q...."Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong."(1 Corinthians 16:13)

Restless- Take Vitamin R...."Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him." (Psalm 37:7)

Scared- Take Vitamin S...."Stay with me, and do not be afraid; for the one who seeks my life seeks your life; you will be safe with me." (1 Samuel 22:23)

Tired- Take Vitamin T...."Those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

Uncertain- Take Vitamin U...."Understand that I am (the LORD). Before Me no God was formed, nor shall there be any after Me." (Isaiah 43:10)

Vain- Take Vitamin V...."Vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.(Acts 5:16)

Wondering what to do?- Take Vitamin W...."What does the LORD require of you but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8)

Exhausted?- Take Vitamin X...."Exercise thyself rather unto godliness." (1 Timothy 4:7)

Yearning for hope?- Take Vitamin Y...."Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4)

Zapped- Take Vitamin Z...."Zealous for good deeds." (Titus 2:14)

Discipline...

Watch this powerful video! It is about 8 minutes long...but worth it!
All Christians should watch it!

Have a beautiful day!

Out of the Mouth of Babes...All About Dad

1. What is something dad always says to you?

Cade: "Maybe we can go to the creek."

Cam: "Be good for mommy."

2. What makes dad happy?

Cade: "That I listen the first time."

Cam: "People being nice to him."

3. What makes dad sad?

Cade: "When I don't listen the first time."

Cam: "When I don't listen to him."

4. How does your dad make you laugh?

Cade: "When he tickles me." "He tells me funny joke...eees."

Cam: "He scared me....then I started laughing so hard."

5. What was your dad like as a child?

Cade: "I have no clue."

Cam: "Little and scrawny. He got bit in the private spot by a duck."

6. How old is your dad?
Cade: I don't know...give me a clue...(Me: He is in his 40's.) 42." (That's it!)
Cam: "46, I think."

7. How tall is your dad?
Cade: "That tall (measuring with his hands) I think 24 pounds."
Cam: "1 inch...LOL! I don't know...1 yard."

8. What is dad's favorite thing to do?

Cade: "When we go to the creek and Aunt Tara's."

Cam: "Play ball with me."

9. What does your dad do when you're not around?

Cade: "Nothing"

Cam: "Hides from me."

10. If your dad becomes famous, what will it be for?

Cade: "Singing like a rock star."

Cam: "Singing"

11. What is your dad really good at?

Cade: "Teaching"

Cam: "Playing basketball and talking like Donald Duck."

12. What is your dad not very good at?
Cade: "experiments...it might blow up."
Cam: "That's hard....he's good at everything!"

13. What does your dad do for a job?

Cade: "Teach and teaches the right lessons."

Cam: "Work at the University of Arkansas."

14.What is your dad's favorite food?

Cade: "How long is this?" Pickles.

Cam: "Piglet meat....bacon.....MEAT."

15.What makes you proud of your dad?

Cade: "When I look at him I love him."

Cam: "For him doing bible stories for me and playing baseball with me."

16. If your dad were a cartoon character, who would he be?

Cade: "Mickey Mouse"
Cam: "Donald Duck...like I said."

17. What do you and your dad do together?

Cade: "Go to the creek."
Cam: "Play baseball, basketball, eat, fishing, and go to the creek."

18. How are you and your dad the same?

Cade: "Were not the same. We wear jeans, and he has jeans."

Cam: "We like basketball."

19. How are you and your dad different?

Cade: "We don't have hats that are alike."

Cam: "He has a beard and I don't."

20. How do you know your dad loves you?

Cade: "Cause I love him."

Cam: "He plays with me."

21. What does your dad like most about your mom?

Cade: "The she loves him."

Cam: "She's pretty."

22. Where is your dad's favorite place to go?
Cade: "Work"
Cam: "Fishing"


My boys dad:

D-drop of a hat...he is there for us!

A-always playing with us, praying for us, and working hard for us!

D-dad...you are the best! Thanks for loving us!

Boating at the Illinois River...Gore, OK. .... 2005

Hanging out with the boys at home!

Daddy taking Cameron (4 months old) to show him where mommy and daddy got married.

Daddy chasing Cameron on the slip-n-slide.

Daddy sliding down the slide with Cam at Chuckee Cheese!

Daddy proud of his new baby boy...Caden (2003)

We think you are the best dad and thank God for you!!





One more thing we wanna say......








"DAD U DA MAN"

How to Get a Garden of Sweet Success!

Smells so good as I am walking into the house. Anyone know what this bush is called?

Plant a Garden of Sweet Success

Plant 5 rows of peas:

Patience

Perseverance

Preparation

Planning

Positiveness

Include 3 rows of squash:

Squash negativity

Squash dieting

Squash deprivation

Add 6 rows of lettuce:

Let us be positive

Let us take responsibility

Let us be in control

Let us reward our accomplishments

Let us be empowered

Let us pray

No garden is complete without turnips:
Turn up with a positive attitude

Turn up with a smile

Turn up with new ideas

Turn up with real determination

Turn up with success

MAY YOUR GARDEN FLOURISH!!!

No matter what kind of goal you are striving to reach...whether it is weight loss, financial freedom, etc... let us put to practice the above to help with our success!