Happy Homemaker Monday 4/22/24

Happy Monday! I'm so thankful to report that my back is doing much better.  Still a little sore in the morning and I'm taking it easy with lifting things, but I'm almost back to all my normal activities.  I'm also very thankful for wonderful kids and husband who picked up the slack and helped with everything from cooking dinner to helping me get my socks on.  It was a very humbling week! 

Let's jump right into this week's Happy Homemaker Monday with Sandra over at Diary of a Stay At Home Mom.  

The Weather:

Another sunny warm(ish) day here.  It's in the 50's so not too warm but still nice.

Outside my Window:

 It's a beautiful spring day!  Yesterday the kids planted some perennial geraniums.  The ornamental pear tree is also blooming now.  The yard is really colorful!

 

Right Now I am:

Blogging and resting a bit while I wait for laundry to be ready to swap again.    

Thinking and Pondering: 

 Praying about a possible summer project. It's something that has been on my heart and mind for awhile now, I'm just not sure if it's just my desire or God's prompting. 

  
 Health Goal Accountability:

Needless to say, I didn't get much activity in last week.  I was hoping to take the kids on a local walk last week but by the time I was feeling up to it, the weather had changed and it was rainy.

 

We did do some yard-work and cleaned out the shed yesterday afternoon.  I also did a workout today and have spent the day cleaning the house. (we'll see if I regret this much activity tomorrow morning!)

Podcasts I'm listening to this week:

None this week.

On my T.V this week:

Probably will just watch some YouTube as new episodes come out.  I really enjoy Location, Location, Location and also Tasting History.  I've also recently discovered that The National Gallery (Britain) has a channel and they do half hour talks on the art and artists in their collection.

On the Dinner Plate:

Chicken & Vegetable Stir fry with brown basmati rice 

 

On the Menu this week: 

 

Need to do a menu.  

 

What I'm Reading:

Bible

Fugitive Telemetry (Book 6 of the Murderbot Diaries)

Be Confident: Live by Faith Not by Sight by Warren Weirsbe

On my To-Do list today:

Workout ✔

Laundry (working on this)

Blog ✔

Make Bread ✔

Clean house from weekend ✔

 

Plans for this week:

Watch another round of the Academic Bowl at the school

Go drop off donations and look for a few things at the thrift store 

Continue spring cleaning the house & yard

What I'm Creating:

I'm currently working on a hooded cardigan for myself.  I'm very excited about this project and hope it comes out well.  The original pattern used a now discontinued yarn so she suggested Lion Brand Heartland yarn as a suitable substitute.  I have to say, I love the colors and texture of the Heartland yarn.  I'm using the color Yosemite, which is a burnt orange/brown colorway.  

Oh, and I also made this pillow.  It was a silly project to learn the waffle stitch before making the washcloths I posted about last week.  I had this bright yellow blanket yarn leftover from another project and I have a lot of poly-fill.  My daughter loves it and has since claimed it as her "movie-watching" pillow. 

 

 

From the Camera:

I didn't take any pictures last week.

Highlight from Last week:

I'm thankful to say that I was feeling well enough by Wednesday to meet up with friends.  We were trying to remember the last time we had gotten together; I thought it had been about a year but one of my friends said she thought it was closer to two years!  It definitely was time for catching up! 

 

Bible Verse/Devotional Quote:

 

On My Prayer List:

Family & Friends who are ill.

Kids away at college and kiddos here this school year.

Wisdom in parenting.

Direction, time & diligence for a project.

Peace & the willingness to let go of things that are not mine to carry.

Wisdom for how to deal with difficult things and to trust God with all!

Happy Homemaker Monday 4/15/24

Happy Monday! It's been a crazy couple of weeks around here.  On the Thursday before last we had a snowstorm with very heavy snow; which caused a large tree to fall across our driveway.  Praising God that there was no damage done and we were able to get in cleared quickly as we were heading to NYC that evening to visit friends.

Last weekend we spent time with some good friends who recently moved to NYC.  We arrived late Thursday evening.  On Friday we went to the MET; it was incredible but definitely not enough time to see even half of it.  We then walked in Central Park and had dinner at Ellen's Stardust diner.  On Saturday we headed back into the city and walked through Times Square, Chinatown and spent some time at the 9/11 memorial. It was so wonderful to see our friends.  We headed home late Saturday night and arrived home about 2:30am on Sunday

On Sunday, after getting some sleep and repacking, we made the trek north to the area of totality for the Solar Eclipse. We spent the night about 1 1/2 hours from where we wanted to view the eclipse. Monday morning we headed up there early.  We had a gorgeous and private viewing area!  The eclipse was breathtaking and pictures just don't do it justice.  It took us about 5 hours to make the same trip back to where we stayed Sunday night.  We had expected the high volume of traffic and made the best of it.  The kids did great and we all agreed it was definitely worth it.  We packed up and headed home that night since we all had things to do Tuesday.  

This past week was pretty normal until Saturday.  I was doing some cleaning and moved wrong which resulted in a pulled back muscle.  To say I'm frustrated is a huge understatement.  I've been working out, doing core exercises and staying active so that things like this don't happen. Sigh...I'm still in a lot of pain but it seems to be a bit better today.  On Wednesday, I'm supposed to have lunch with friends I haven't seen in about a year, so I'm really praying I will be able to drive by then. This is also April vacation for the kids so I want to be able to do things with them too!

Enough about that...let's jump into this week's Happy Homemaker Monday with Sandra over at Diary of a Stay At Home Mom.  

The Weather:

It is gorgeous here!  Sunny and almost 70 today!  I'm so glad for the warmer weather and that the kids can get outside.

Outside my Window:

The sun is shining, the sky is blue and the magnolia tree, ornamental cherry tree and other flowers are blooming. It's a beautiful spring day!

 

Right Now I am:

Blogging and trying to stay in a comfortable position for my back.    

Thinking and Pondering: 

 What I can still do with the kids this week even with the limited movement. 

  
 Health Goal Accountability:

I was doing really well with working out last week.  Knowing that I'd have to post about it today did help keep me motivated. I had a busy week of meetings, etc so I had been active as well...until Saturday afternoon. :( 

Podcasts I'm listening to this week:

None this week.

On my T.V this week:

Probably will just watch some YouTube as new episodes come out.  I really enjoy Location, Location, Location and also Tasting History.  I've also recently discovered that The National Gallery (Britain) has a channel and they do half hour talks on the art and artists in their collection.

On the Dinner Plate:

Big Mac in a bowl 

 

On the Menu this week: 

 

Need to do a menu.  

 

What I'm Reading:

Bible

Network Effect (Book 5 of the Murderbot Diaries) -This is the first full length book in the series.

Be Confident: Live by Faith Not by Sight by Warren Weirsbe

On my To-Do list today:

Workout

Laundry (kids are working on this)

Blog ✔

Continue work on school newsletter ✔

 

Plans for this week:

Hopefully meet up with friends for lunch

Spend extra time with the kids

What I'm Creating:

I made these waffle stitch facecloths to send down to our NYC friends as a thank you/housewarming gift.  I'm planning to add some fun soaps or face masks.  They have two girls so I thought this would be fun for them.

 

 

From the Camera:

A peek into our NYC trip and eclipse day.

Highlight from Last week:

Visiting friends in NYC

Seeing the solar eclipse with other close friends.

 

Bible Verse/Devotional Quote:

 

We so often hear Proverbs 3:5-6 quoted but I was struck by verse 7 this week.

On My Prayer List:

Family & Friends who are ill.

Kids away at college and kiddos here this school year.

Wisdom in parenting.

Direction, time & diligence for a project.

Peace & the willingness to let go of things that are not mine to carry.

Wisdom for how to deal with difficult things and to trust God with all!

Happy Homemaker Monday 4/1/24

Happy Monday!  I hope you all had a wonderful Easter yesterday.  Our Easter celebration always starts on Friday with the Good Friday service at church.  It's always a great time to reflect on what Jesus endured for us.  This year, as part of the service, they shared a powerful poem. I'll link the video below; it really is worth the few minutes to listen, stop and reflect on all that He accomplished for us.

Saturday morning I helped at church for a little bit to set up and prep a few things for Sunday brunch.  After, we took a trip to Bass Pro Shops; it's not close so we don't go often but it's always fun to look around.  Then it was back home so I could bake up an Orange Chiffon Cake for Sunday dinner.  I had never made one before but this was fairly easy and came out nice.  

Sunday was lovely.  Our church does an Easter brunch before service and a baptism service as well.  I was serving in the nursery but we turned on the livestream downstairs so we were able to watch the testimonies and baptisms before doing the lesson with the littles. 

We did a non-traditional dinner of Lamb Saag, Garlic Butter Rice and homemade naan. It was delicious and great to have a team effort preparing the meal. My husband's mom joined us so we visited for a bit after dinner.  Nice and relaxing.

 Jumping on really quick to join in this week's Happy Homemaker Monday with Sandra over at Diary of a Stay At Home Mom.  

The Weather:

We have finally had some sun again the past couple of days.  It's cloudy today, but the sun is trying to peek through.

Outside my Window:

The sunrise this morning was breathtaking.  I tried to take a picture but of course it doesn't do any justice as to how bright and vibrant the colors truly were. 

 

Right Now I am:

Taking a minute to sit and blog before getting started with my day.    

Thinking and Pondering: 

Changes that need to be made.  I have not been as good recently about working out regularly (I know, it's on my list every Monday but has not been getting done).  I really want to be mindful of staying healthy and active as we still have a busy life and I love to hike, bike, etc when the weather is nice.  So, I'm praying about specific changes that will help me  since everyone is different in what works for them.  I'd love to hear any tips/tricks that have worked for you.

 

One thing I'm going to be doing is adding a bit of accountability into this post.  I'm planning to post each week how many workouts I did...now I will say right now...we will be out of town next Monday so I won't have a post next week but I'm adding in the section for this so I don't forget about it.

 

  
 Health Goal Accountability:

I did work out today, so yay!  One day for me.

Podcasts I'm listening to this week:

I've been listening to David Platt's podcast; Radical.  I so appreciate his teaching.   I've also listened to some more American History Tellers recently.

On my T.V this week:

Probably will just watch some YouTube as new episodes come out.  I really enjoy Location, Location, Location and also Tasting History.  I've also recently discovered that The National Gallery (Britain) has a channel and they do half hour talks on the art and artists in their collection.

On the Dinner Plate:

Baked Ravioli w/Casaer Salad

 

On the Menu this week: 

 

Need to do a menu.  We will be away starting Thursday evening so a shorter week to plan.

 

What I'm Reading:

Bible

Network Effect (Book 5 of the Murderbot Diaries) -This is the first full length book in the series.

Be Confident: Live by Faith Not by Sight by Warren Weirsbe

On my To-Do list today:

Workout ✔

Laundry

Blog ✔

Weekend cleanup/straighten house

 

Plans for this week:

Catch up on laundry

Prep and mail packages to college kids

Attend Honor Roll assemblies (2 days)

Prep for time away

Visit Friends in NYC

Go see the eclipse!! (technically next week/Monday) 

Continue to research some things for a possible project

Hopefully meet with school principal about a project I proposed to him.

What I'm Creating:

I finished the Easter dress, just in time!

From the Camera:

We made Resurrection Cookies.  We try to do this tradition each year.  Each ingredient and step are linked to a Scripture describing the events of the Crucifixion and Resurrection. 

 

Highlight from Last week:

Attending our daughter's band jamboree.  It was great to see all five schools perform together. 

Attending the Academic Bowl and watching our son compete with his team. (District-wide trivia and STEM competition)

Attending the Good Friday & Easter services.

 

Bible Verse/Devotional Quote:

 

On My Prayer List:

Family & Friends who are ill.

Kids away at college and kiddos here this school year.

Wisdom in parenting.

Direction, time & diligence for a project.

Peace & the willingness to let go of things that are not mine to carry.

Wisdom for how to deal with difficult things and to trust God with all!

Happy Homemaker Monday 3/25/24

Another Monday already.  Time marches on.  I'm having a slower start to the day today.  I did get the kitchen straightened up and kids off to school.  I rarely climb back into bed but this morning I decided to bring my coffee and laptop upstairs and warm back up a bit in bed.  It's chilly out there!  

Last week was another busy one so it's nice to have a slower start to this week.  The kids have Friday off from school for Good Friday so it will be a shorter week for them; which is always nice. We do have a few things going on this week, and of course I need to figure out a plan for Easter dinner but for now I'm taking a few minutes to blog.  Jumping on really quick to join in this week's Happy Homemaker Monday with Sandra over at Diary of a Stay At Home Mom.  

The Weather:

It's cold!  The sun is trying to peek through the clouds but we're supposed to have mostly cloudy weather today and then cold & rainy weather the rest of the week.

Outside my Window:

There's still a bit of snow on the grass, skies are a bit cloudy. 

Right Now I am:

Taking a minute to sit and blog before getting started with my day.    

Thinking and Pondering: 

All that I need to do this week.  What to make for Easter dinner.     
 

Podcasts I'm listening to this week:

I've been listening to David Platt's podcast; Radical.  I so appreciate his teaching.   I've also listened to some more American History Tellers recently.

On my T.V this week:

Catching up on Blown Away, a glass-blowing competition show on Netflix.  It's amazing what they can do with glass.

On the Dinner Plate:

Either Chicken & Barley Pulao  OR Israeli Couscous salad with chicken 

 

On the Menu this week: 

 

I need to do a full menu plan.

The two recipes mentioned above are leftover from last week.

 

What I'm Reading:

Bible

Network Effect (Book 5 of the Murderbot Diaries) -This is the first full length book in the series.

Be Confident: Live by Faith Not by Sight by Warren Weirsbe

On my To-Do list today:

Workout

Laundry (catch up on folding)

Blog

Take A to find a white shirt for her concert

Weekend cleanup/straighten house

 

Plans for this week:

Catch up on laundry

Finish a crochet Easter dress for our youngest.

Continue to research some things for a possible project

Attend Band Jamboree (all bands from the 5 schools in the district play at this concert)

Figure out Easter Dinner plans

Attend Good Friday Service

Help prep for the Easter brunch at church

Hopefully meet with school principal about a project I proposed to him.

What I'm Creating:

Our youngest requested a crocheted Easter dress.  I made her one a few years ago and it got a lot of wear (for awhile it was the only thing she would wear to church).  She has outgrown that one so she wanted a new one this year.  Most of my "relaxing" time has been spent on that and thankfully it looks like I'll get it done in time.  

 

I'm using up yarn that I already had which is a pastel multi-colored yarn.  This yarn worked up in a stripe pattern, which is cute but now that I'm adding the sleeves it's much more time consuming as I'm trying to somewhat match up with the dress stripes.  I love the pattern but if I made another one I would definitely use a solid color yarn.  I'll be sure to post pictures when it is done. 

 

I'm almost done this!  I just need to finish weaving in the ends and adding the butterfly appliques.  A side-effect of matching the stripes was many more ends to weave in.  Don't be like me, use a solid colored yarn, it will go much faster and there will be hardly any ends to weave in. 😀

From the Camera:

 I didn't take any pictures last week. 

Highlight from Last week:

Helping with the band kids. 

Having brunch with my sister.

Attending the monthly women's group at church.  

 

Bible Verse/Devotional Quote:

 

On My Prayer List:

Family & Friends who are ill.

Kids away at college and kiddos here this school year.

Wisdom in parenting.

Direction, time & diligence for a project.

Peace & the willingness to let go of things that are not mine to carry.

Wisdom for how to deal with difficult things and to trust God with all!

What's so great about eternal?

 

For many years I lived in a place of thinking that eternal life was something that, while I had it, didn't really "kick in" until after this life.  As I've read more Scripture and dug deeper into the original words I've found a much deeper and richer understanding of this word, eternal.  So, grab a cup of coffee or tea and sit with me for a minute.  Soak in the truth of why eternal is so great!

In the original language the word for eternal is aiónios, this word means eternal but the deeper implication of this word is that aiónios "does not focus on the future per se, but rather on the quality of the age it relates to.  Thus believers live in "eternal life" right now, experiencing this quality of God's life right now as a present possession." (biblehub.com)

So, let's look at some Scripture to see what we have right now:

John 3:16 - We possess eternal life - right now!

Hebrews 9:12 - We possess eternal redemption - right now!

Hebrews 9:15 - We possess an eternal inheritance - right now!

2 Thessalonians 2:16 - We possess eternal comfort and good hope - right now!

2 Peter 1:11 - We possess a place in the eternal kingdom - right now!

Revelation 14:6 - We possess the truth of the eternal gospel - right now!

Hebrews 5:9 - We possess eternal salvation - right now!

 

I'd encourage you to take some time and meditate on these verses, see if you can find other verses that speak of the eternal things we, as believers, forgiven and accepted children of God, possess.  And then share them in the comments to encourage others.  

Happy Homemaker Monday 3/18/24

Phew!  It has been a busy (good) couple of weeks around here.  We managed to squeeze in quite a bit of fun while our oldest girl was home on spring break.  She needed to visit a couple art museums for one of her classes so she and I checked out a couple local places we had never been to before.  We also were able to rent a friends condo last minute so that Matt and some of the kids could get one more ski day in this year.  It was a great overnight trip but we both agreed next time needs to be longer.  Last week was filled with meetings and visiting a friend along with the normal weekly activities.  On Saturday we took a day trip to a Sculpture walk, some of the sculptures were fascinating! This week is looking to be another busy week so I wanted to get this up earlier in the day. Jumping on really quick to join in this week's Happy Homemaker Monday with Sandra over at Diary of a Stay At Home Mom.  

The Weather:

It's sunny again!  It's a bit chilly here but sunny today.  One thing about such a dreary, gray, rainy winter is it definitely makes me more thankful for the sunny days.

Outside my Window:

Clear blue skies, some trees budding, most of the wood is cleared from the tree that fell. 

Right Now I am:

Taking a minute to sit and blog before getting started with my day.    

Thinking and Pondering: 

All that I need to do this week.     
 

Podcasts I'm listening to this week:

I've been listening to David Platt's podcast; Radical.  I so appreciate his teaching.   I've also listened to some more American History Tellers recently.

On my T.V this week:

We've been enjoying History's Greatest Mysteries; so we'll probably watch some more of those.

On the Dinner Plate:

Brown Rice Salad with Chicken 

 

On the Menu this week: 

 

I need to do a full menu plan but a couple recipes still on last week's menu are:

Baked Pasta

Lentil Soup 

 

What I'm Reading:

Bible

Network Effect (Book 5 of the Murderbot Diaries) -This is the first full length book in the series.

Be Confident: Live by Faith Not by Sight by Warren Weirsbe

On my To-Do list today:

Workout

Laundry (catch up on folding)

Blog

Take kids to library

Vacuum upstairs

 

Plans for this week:

Catch up on laundry

Work on a crochet Easter dress for our youngest.

Continue to research some things for a possible project

Help band teacher 2 days

Go visit my sister

Attend and lead this month's Gathering Table (church women's group)

What I'm Creating:

Our youngest requested a crocheted Easter dress.  I made her one a few years ago and it got a lot of wear (for awhile it was the only thing she would wear to church).  She has outgrown that one so she wanted a new one this year.  Most of my "relaxing" time has been spent on that and thankfully it looks like I'll get it done in time.  

 

I'm using up yarn that I already had which is a pastel multi-colored yarn.  This yarn worked up in a stripe pattern, which is cute but now that I'm adding the sleeves it's much more time consuming as I'm trying to somewhat match up with the dress stripes.  I love the pattern but if I made another one I would definitely use a solid color yarn.  I'll be sure to post pictures when it is done.

From the Camera:

 

A view from the top of the sculpture trail.

                I found this sculpture so fun.  It always amazes me how they can make stone look soft.

                While the other kids went skiing, I took two of our girls for a little hike near the condo.  

                            This waterfall was so pretty with all the moss covered rocks.

                These paperweights were at one of the museums. I had watched a documentary about the                                             company that makes them so it was neat to see them in person.

Highlight from Last week:

Visiting a friend, special day trips making fun memories.

 

Bible Verse/Devotional Quote:

Thinking a lot about words and how we use them.  I was going to share some thoughts here but it got to be a bit long so if you're interested you can read my thoughts about 1 Peter 3:4 in this blog post.  

For now I'll just share these guidelines that I often repeat to myself and my kids. Before you speak T.H.I.N.K.

On My Prayer List:

Family & Friends who are ill.

Kids away at college and kiddos here this school year.

Wisdom in parenting.

Direction, time & diligence for a project.

Peace & the willingness to let go of things that are not mine to carry.

Wisdom for how to deal with difficult things and to trust God with all!

Quick thoughts about 1 Peter 3:4

 A quick thought on 1 Peter 3:4.  This verse has always been one I've struggled a bit with.  While I'm quiet around people I don't know, once I'm comfortable I'm not a quiet person. I love to talk, laugh, have fun, etc.  Growing up I struggled with feeling like my personality was "wrong" or "less than" in some way because of this.  

Last year I read the book Having a Mary Heart in A Martha World one of the beautiful things I noticed was that both when Jesus first met Martha and the last recorded meeting between them, she was serving.  Her personality, her gifts, were not seen as bad or something she needed to give up; it was her attitude in doing those things.  God has made us each unique and didn't make a mistake in making some of us with "louder" personalities.

So, what does all of this have to do with 1 Peter 3:4?  Let's look at the verse and then there are two words I want to expand on a bit. 

I'm not sure if I heard preaching this way or if it was something I inferred from other messages;  but I always saw this verse as telling women to be a bit "mousy" to be small, to not give strong opinions or to never be boisterous.  I don't believe that is what this verse is saying at all.  Let's look at the words gentle (sometimes translated as meek) and quiet. 

Gentle is translated from the word, praus, this word means "strength shown with reserve" or as the Biblehub lexicon puts it "Biblical meekness is not weakness but rather refers to exercising God's strength under His control. -- i.e. demonstrating power without undue harshness."  

We are to demonstrate our God-given strength in a controlled way, without harshness.  This verse presupposes that we are believers so we do in fact have God-given strength.  This is referring to how we live that out, our attitude. Our strength of spirit! In all this we must submit ourselves to be under God's control.

The next word I wanted to look at is quiet.  Quiet is translated from the word, hésuchios, this word means "calmly, quiet" being "appropriately tranquil by not misusing (or overusing) words that would stir up needless friction (destructive commotion)." There is also the idea in this word of being calm, still, settled because of a "divinely inspired inner calmness".  

Having a quiet spirit means we are settled, calm because we have God.  For me, it was a great reminder that I don't need to overuse words trying to make sure I'm never misunderstood.  I'm not to use words, or keep talking when it would just cause needless friction.  

In both these words there is an understanding that we will talk, we should talk.  Have fun, be boisterous, we can share our thoughts and opinions, even if we are passionate about them, but be very aware of how you use your words.  In all things we are to be seeking God's wisdom for what to say, how to say it and when to stop speaking or stay quiet.

Am I expressing my beliefs and opinions in a harsh manner?

Am I trying to settle arguments or misunderstanding in my own strength? or am I relying on God's strength? Should I even be trying to settle this, or should I hold my tongue and give it to God?

Am I  using harsh words in dealing with  my kids?  When I exercise my God-given authority?

Am I overusing words that might "stir up needless friction"?

This passage is speaking to wives; am I being harsh with my husband?

Am I venting all my thoughts just to be heard? Get my own way? Or are my words helpful, encouraging, under the control of God's strength?

Two other verses came to mind while writing out the questions:

"When words are many transgression is not lacking, 

but whoever restrains his lips is prudent."

Proverbs 10:19

"A fool gives full vent to his spirit,

but a wise man quietly holds it back."

Proverbs 29:11

 

**my normal disclaimer.  I'm not a Bible scholar, I'm still learning. If you've studied this out more and see anything that seems off with Scripture, please comment, I'm always willing to learn.  I only ask that you be kind, and that you substantiate your thoughts with Scripture **

Happy Homemaker Monday 3/4/24

Happy March!   Well, March isn't very "liony" this year.  It's been rather warm so far.  This week is a bit different as our oldest daughter is home for spring break so I'm looking forward to extra time with her.  Jumping on really quick to join in this week's Happy Homemaker Monday with Sandra over at Diary of a Stay At Home Mom.  

The Weather:

It started out sunny but now is a bit cloudy.  Warmer temps today which are always welcome.

Outside my Window:

We have a lot of sparrows this morning!  Yesterday we saw the turkeys for the first time in awhile.  Mr. Tom Turkey now has four lady friends that keep him company.  It's always fun to see them wandering through the yard; and especially fun when they decide to take flight. 

Right Now I am:

Taking a minute to sit and blog before heading out with our daughter.    

Thinking and Pondering: 

So very thankful for how God works.  Also pondering a project that I feel God calling me to finish.  Praying for good time management to work on it and finish it.     
 

Podcasts I'm listening to this week:

I've been listening to David Platt's podcast; Radical.  I so appreciate his teaching.  

On my T.V this week:

Not sure, probably some period pieces as my older girls love those (Pride & Prejudice is a favorite!)

On the Dinner Plate:

Chicken Tikka Masala with Naan bread 

 

On the Menu this week: 

 

Chicken Tikka Masala

Meatballs & Pasta

Chickpea, Cashew & Coconut Curry with rice & veg

Lentil Stew

Chicken with Whiskey Glaze & vegetables 

 

What I'm Reading:

Bible

Network Effect (Book 5 of the Murderbot Diaries) -This is the first full length book in the series.

Be Confident: Live by Faith Not by Sight by Warren Weirsbe

On my To-Do list today:

Workout

Laundry

Lunch with my parents.

 

 

Plans for this week:

Catch up on laundry

Sand and paint archway

Work on a crochet Kitty Pillow for our youngest.

Continue to research some things for a possible project

Spend time with oldest daughter

Read to youngest daughter's class for Read Across America

What I'm Creating:

I'm working on a stuffed kitty pillow for our youngest.  After I made the whale she's been begging me to make her a giant stuffy so last week we found a pattern and I'm using up some blanket yarn from my stash.  I'm simplifying the pattern a bit, as I didn't want to buy any yarn for this project, but so far she's thrilled.

From the Camera:

 I didn't really take any pictures last week.

Highlight from Last week:

Highlight was definitely our girl coming home for a visit.

 

Bible Verse/Devotional Quote:

I saw these two posts on Instagram last week and saved them as good reminders. 

On My Prayer List:

Family & Friends who are ill.

Kids away at college and kiddos here this school year.

Wisdom in parenting.

Direction, time & diligence for a project.

Peace & the willingness to let go of things that are not mine to carry.

Wisdom for how to deal with difficult things and to trust God with all!

Happy Homemaker Monday 2/26/24

It's hard to believe this is the last Monday of February.  While the winters here tend to be long; it's nice to feel that spring is on the way.  Since Easter is in March this year, Spring feels especially close now. Once again, I'm happy to join in this week's Happy Homemaker Monday with Sandra over at Diary of a Stay At Home Mom.  

The Weather:

It's sunny!!! It is also a bit warmer than it has been the past few weeks.  It's starting to feel a bit like spring. 

Outside my Window:

The sun is shining.  The trees are budding and I'm starting to get spring fever for some outside time in the yard doing some cleanup.  The temps aren't quite warm enough (or ground dry enough) yet; but it's nice to see that it's coming. 

Right Now I am:

Taking a minute to sit and blog while I wait for laundry and banana bread to finish.  

Thinking and Pondering: 

A phrase that has been a comfort to me over the past week or so and especially today.  I read a post on Instagram about how the phrase "I don't know" can be a prayer.  The phrase "I don't know, But God does, and I choose to trust Him" has been helping me to put things in perspective.  

 

I'm also pondering some projects; praying over which ones God would have me finish.     
 

Podcasts I'm listening to this week:

None this week.  

On my T.V this week:

No idea. Maybe catch up on some YouTube channels I follow.  We've also been watching the new live-action Avatar show; while not as good as the animated, it's still been fun to watch with the kids.

On the Dinner Plate:

Not sure yet.  We may order in or I might make chicken noodle soup. 

 

On the Menu this week: 

 

So far just chicken noodle soup and stuffed pepper casserole.  

 

What I'm Reading:

Bible

Exit Strategy (Book 4 of the Murderbot Diaries) -these are short (~150pgs each) books and just a fun scifi read.

Be Confident: Live by Faith Not by Sight by Warren Weirsbe

On my To-Do list today:

Workout

Laundry

Catch up on random things

 

 

Plans for this week:

Catch up on laundry

Go to a school event for our son

Work on a crochet Kitty Pillow for our youngest.

Research some things for a possible project

Work on the newly installed trim (sand & possibly paint this week)

 Hem a couple pairs of pants

What I'm Creating:. 

I finally finished weaving in the ends on the blanket.  So, now I can share a picture! 

 

 

 
Now I'm working on a stuffed kitty pillow for our youngest.  After I made the whale she's been begging me to make her a giant stuffy so last week we found a pattern and I'm using up some blanket yarn from my stash.  I'm simplifying the pattern a bit, as I didn't want to buy any yarn for this project, but so far she's thrilled.

From the Camera:

We didn't do too many things during last week's vacation as some of the kids weren't feeling 100%; however, on Wednesday a friend texted last minute to see if we wanted to go snow tubing.  We went later in the afternoon and had so much fun.  A bonus of going later in the day was watching the sunset.

Highlight from Last week:

Tubing was definitely a highlight.  A couple other fun things were; having breakfast with a friend I don't see too often; Saturday I had an impromptu dinner out with two other close friends.

 

Bible Verse/Devotional Quote:

I've been studying through the book of Hebrews.  I love the emphasis on how we can be confident of God, of our eternal salvation and of all of His promises.  Hebrews 4:16 speaks of the privilege we have as His children to  "with confidence draw near to the throne of grace".  

The word for confidence here is parrésia - meaning freedom of speech, confidence, boldness.  In this verse the idea is "free and fearless confidence, cheerful courage" that's how we can come before God's throne!  We can come fearless, cheerful and pour out all of our thoughts to God, we have freedom to speak to Him.  What a comfort and privilege prayer is; and a challenge to never lessen the value or take for granted the great honor it is that we can come before the God of the universe. 

On My Prayer List:

Family & Friends who are ill.

Kids away at college and kiddos here this school year.

Wisdom in parenting.

Peace & the willingness to let go of things that are not mine to carry.

Wisdom for how to deal with difficult things and to trust God with all!

Happy Homemaker 2/19/24

Another Sunny Monday here,  I hope you all are having a great Monday.  The kids are on winter break this week so it's a bit of a different week.  We are enjoying the relaxed mornings and time together.  I'm glad to have a few minutes to sit and blog. Once again, I'm happy to join in this week's Happy Homemaker Monday with Sandra over at Diary of a Stay At Home Mom.  

The Weather:

It's sunny!!! It is also a bit warmer than it has been the past few weeks.  It's starting to feel a bit like spring.

Outside my Window:

The sun is shining.  The chicadees are at the feeder.  We've had a surprising number of cardinals this year as well.  One day I looked out and counted eight cardinals in the magnolia tree next to the feeder. 

Right Now I am:

Taking a minute to sit and blog while I grab a late lunch.  

Thinking and Pondering: 

How I need to make some big changes in my thought patterns and pondering some practical steps to implement immediately.     
 

Podcasts I'm listening to this week:

None this week.  

On my T.V this week:

No idea. Maybe catch up on some YouTube channels I follow. 

On the Dinner Plate:

Pesto chicken pull apart sliders with cucumbers and carrots on the side.

On the Menu this week:

Need to figure this one out. 

 

What I'm Reading:

Bible

Rogue Protocol (Book 3 of the Murderbot Diaries) -these are short (~150pgs each) books and just a fun scifi read.

Be Confident: Live by Faith Not by Sight by Warren Weirsbe

On my To-Do list today:

Workout

Laundry

Sand trim

 

 

Plans for this week:

Catch up on laundry

Passport appts for kids

Breakfast/brunch with a friend

Finish sanding and paint baseboards

Enjoy the extra time with the kids

 

What I'm Creating:. 

 I'm also almost done with my daughter's blanket; I just need to weave in all the ends and then it's done.  I've been tempted to post a picture since the front looks done but I'm using that as incentive to get those ends woven in!  Hopefully this week. (still not done!).  I did finally finish painting a hook board that I had put together about a year ago.  Now that it's done I have no idea what I will do with it. 

From the Camera:

So, my older kids grew up watching Looney Tunes.  I had bought a collection of (I think) 6 DVD's and they loved watching them.  Over time the DVD's became scratched and we had to get rid of them.  Since this happened before the youngest two were born they've never really seen Looney Tunes. My oldest kids joke that I've "neglected" my duties by not introducing the youngest ones to Looney Tunes.  So, this week I remedied that. Here is a picture of them enjoying a few of the cartoons.

Highlight from Last week:

A special time at The Gathering Table with other ladies from church.  Hubby also took the youngest to her school dance.  I had helped set up for the dance and was there when they arrived; she was so excited!

 

Bible Verse/Devotional Quote:

Today I want to share a "new to me" song that we recently sang at church

On My Prayer List:

Family & Friends who are ill.

Kids away at college and kiddos here this school year.

Wisdom in parenting.

Peace & the willingness to let go of things that are not mine to carry.

Wisdom for how to deal with difficult things and to trust God with all!

Happy Homemaker 2/12/24

Good Monday Morning!  It's sunny here!! I hope you all are having a great Monday.  We have another busy week here (and a predicted snowstorm too!) so I'm glad to have a few minutes to sit and blog. Once again, I'm happy to join in this week's Happy Homemaker Monday with Sandra over at Diary of a Stay At Home Mom.  

The Weather:

It's sunny!!! We had the first good weather weekend in awhile; which was wonderful.  We were able to get some outside tasks started. 

Outside my Window:

The sun is shining.  It's hazy but the sun is getting through.

Right Now I am:

Taking a minute to sit and blog while laundry finishes and the bread finishes it's first rise.  

Thinking and Pondering: 

How I so need God's wisdom each day.    
 

Podcasts I'm listening to this week:

I listened to a couple of David Platt podcasts last week.  They are always both challenging & encouraging and filled with Scriptures.   

On my T.V this week:

No idea. Maybe catch up on some YouTube channels I follow. 

On the Dinner Plate:

I'm not sure yet.  We had a few people over for the Super Bowl last night but didn't end up cooking all I had bought since we had SO much food.  So, maybe dumplings & fried rice?

On the Menu this week:

Ham Dinner 

Pea Soup (one of the kids requested this so that's why I'm making the ham)

Whatever else I throw together with what's in the freezer & pantry.  Oh, I am planning to make a nice steak tip dinner to celebrate Valentine's but it'll be on Friday since we have church activities on Wednesday evenings.

 

What I'm Reading:

Bible

Rogue Protocol (Book 3 of the Murderbot Diaries) -these are short (~150pgs each) books and just a fun scifi read.

Be Confident: Live by Faith Not by Sight by Warren Weirsbe

On my To-Do list today:

Workout

Laundry

Make Bread

Clean up random things around the house

 

 

Plans for this week:

Make Bread

PTO Meeting

Drop off Sewing Machine for Maintenance and Repair

Keep up with housework

Finish weaving in ends on daughter's blanket

Get older kids packed and off to camp

The Gathering Table

Help Setup for K-4 Someone Special Dance (PTO Task)

Write 2 notes & send out

 

What I'm Creating:. 

 I'm also almost done with my daughter's blanket; I just need to weave in all the ends and then it's done.  I've been tempted to post a picture since the front looks done but I'm using that as incentive to get those ends woven in!  Hopefully this week. 

From the Camera:

I don't really have any.

Highlight from Last week:

Some very sweet time with God in prayer and study.  Also spending some time with the Women's Ministry team praying and planning for this year.

 

Bible Verse/Devotional Quote:

 

 Over the past week I've been focused a lot on the subject of prayer.  How Jesus is faithful to hear and answer our prayers, how we can have confidence that how He answers is always best, the privilege of prayer, and also how we are to be persistent in prayer.  This morning's Bible reading was from Matthew chapter 26 and the verse below caught my attention. 

So often I can feel that taking something to God in prayer over and over shows a lack of trust; and yes, sometimes it probably does.  But, we see here that Jesus, fully trusting His Father, still went back, praying the same prayer.  It was an encouragement that when things are hard, God knows that trials weigh heavy on us and that we need to keep running to Him.  For strength, reassurance and the comfort that comes from being in His presence.  While nothing we face will be on the same level as Jesus going to the cross; the example He leaves for us is still true.  Our Father loves us, and wants us to always bring our concerns, praise and desires to Him over and over.

On My Prayer List:

Family & Friends who are ill.

Kids away at college and kiddos here this school year.

Wisdom in parenting.

Peace & the willingness to let go of things that are not mine to carry.

Wisdom for how to deal with a difficult person