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Friday, December 21, 2007

Making a List and Checking it Twice.. or maybe Three Times!

We still do the Santa thing with Chloe every year. She's 7 years-old. And please don't write me a long list of reasons why doing "Santa" with her every year is wrong. We do it. She likes it. That's it.

So - I was telling her on Sunday afternoon that if she didn't finish her list for Santa that night, that it wouldn't get to the North Pole on time, because Monday was the DEADLINE! So - in a mad dash, she took off to her room to find the list and finish it.

This list cracks me up! I just HAD to post it. But PLEASE don't tell her I shared it with you... she would be devastated (and embarrassed) at some of her items. This is just too precious not to pass along! Oh - and I'm going to spell the items EXACTLY like she did. Here we go...

1. Violin
2. DS (this would be Nintendo DS)
3. Gum (yeah, that's right - the girl wants gum!)
4. High School Musical 2 (the DVD)
5. Hannah Montana Sell Phone (this is actually a 'play' phone)
6. Lipe Stick (Lip Stick)
7. A TV (umm.. not!)
8. Gres Shull (I'm still not sure what this is!)
9. Gutar (that would be guitar and she's still upset that Santa forgot that last year!)
10. Movies
11. Gitakstick Swet Pants (this would be gymnastic sweat pants!)
12. A Sled
13. The Simpson's Movie (umm... another not!)
14. Shrimp (what can I say - the girl has quality taste!)
15. Choocklet (this would be chocolate! Ahh - just like her mom! Shrimp and chocolate!)
16. Kids Cooking Set
17. Dresses
18. A Sell Phone ("cell" phone... this would be a real one. NO?)
19. Braselet ("bracelet")
20. A cat (might I add that even though she knows her daddy is allergic to cats, she still wants one and says she will keep it in her room!)
21. Games for DS (that's if Santa gets her the DS, otherwise, these are pretty pointless!)
22. Poop Corn (yep - you heard it! My daughter wants "poop" corn. I'm actually hoping this is popcorn!)
23. A puppy
24. Peja's (Pajamas)
25. Games for WII
26. Bells (??)
27. Pool (now you've gone too far!)
28. Cards (she clarified this as being "playing" cards)
29. World Puzzle (actually something she saw at Wal*Mart)

Okay - there are some things on this list that are do-able, some that are NOT do-able and others that are just down right not going to happen. Gotta love this imagination, though!

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Christmas Traditions!

Every family has them - - those silly Christmas traditions that make the holidays so special! We have our own... and I thought I would share some of them with you today.

  • Ever since I was a little girl, we have always driven around on Christmas Eve to look at all the Christmas lights in our city. I remember as a girl - it was magical - the way the city looked all "done up" in rainbow colored lights! My husband and I have carried that tradition into our family as well, however, we added a little twist to it. We look at lights through local neighborhoods with the WINDOWS DOWN. I know, it's typically freezing out - but not when you come fully equipped with blankets, mittens, hats, scarves and hot chocolate in thermos containers! It's still so cool and I get just as excited about this tradition as I did when I was a little girl!
  • I'm not exactly sure how this one got started, but for the past 6 years or so, after the passing of my father-in-law, my husband, my daughter and I stay the night at my mother-in-law's on December 23. We wake up on Christmas Eve and then enjoy a breakfast together before we split up to do last minute shopping, baking etc. It's a lot of fun. We stay up really late and eat and drink hot chocolate. It's a real highlight of my Christmas holiday!
  • Every year I hand write a letter to each member of my immediate family... my husband, my daughter, my mom and my dad, and place them in the Christmas tree. In the letter, I tell them how much they mean to me and for all the things I'm thankful for that year. Even before opening stockings, I have them open the letters and read them. It's just a nice way to reflect on what's truly important!
  • Since my daughter was about 4, we have been making a birthday cake for Jesus on Christmas Eve. On Christmas afternoon, after dinner, we sing Happy Birthday to Jesus as a family. What a really neat way to celebrate the true meaning... Christ's birth. I have to say - this one is my daughters favorite! (oh, did I mention, she gets to pick out the cake flavor and frosting?)
  • On Christmas night, sometimes (not every year, so does that count as a tradition?) we go see a movie. It really depends on what's out that particular year. This year it looks like it might be Alvin and the Chipmunks - although I've received mixed reviews.

Those are some of my family traditions. There's more - and every year we add a couple new ones. I'm interested in what other family traditions YOU might have... please share and Merry CHRISTmas!!!

Monday, December 17, 2007

Speechless!

I cannot recall a time when I was more speechless than I was this past Saturday, December 15. In fact, I was not only speechless, I was typeless. I wanted to blog about this Saturday night, but the words just wouldn't come. They didn't come. They still won't come. All I can say is that God did a phenomenal work through Crossroads Community Church this past weekend!! He was truly lifted high through the efforts of our amazing volunteers to bring food to a hurting community. I've never been a witness to such selfless love and dedication! It was by far one of the biggest moments of my life.

To the Project Share leaders who embraced the vision from the early days of planning... THANK YOU.

To the 450+ volunteers who showed up, in the freezing temperatures, to serve our God and our community... THANK YOU.

To the agencies who partnered with us to make this vision... this dream of helping hurting families a reality... THANK YOU.

To the God who loves us & who blesses us beyond measure... THANK YOU.

If you missed Project Share, you can see the amazing video here.

Because No One Should Be Left Out...

Wednesday, December 05, 2007

Blogs I Read

I have been asked by some what blogs I read on a consistent basis. Seems now-a-days, everybody's blogging... here are some of my favorite that I follow pretty consistently..

Steven Furtick - Lead Pastor of Elevation Church in Charlotte, N.C. He is ONE of the COOLEST guys I've encountered in blogsphere!

Perry Noble - Senior Pastor of NewSpring Church in Anderson, S.C. - see the theme - the Carolina dudes rock out!

Sherry Moorhead - Sherry is the Director of Volunteers at NewSpring Church in Anderson, S.C. - I would like to meet this person who has direction over 2,000+ volunteers week in and week out! Wow - she's incredible!

Kem Meyer - Kem is the Communications Director for Granger Community Church in Granger, IN. I met her once. Well - okay, I didn't actually MEET her, but I SAW her at the conference I attended in Granger last month. It was so cool. It was like seeing a celebrity walk into a room. She seems way cool!

Mark Waltz - Mark is way cool, too and is a staff pastor for Granger Community Church. I got to listen to his story a bit during my Granger conference experience last month. This guy has the guest experience nailed down!

Tim Stevens - Gotta love this guy! He's one creative dude! His role is the Executive Pastor for Granger Community Church. Got to listen to him at my Granger conference last month, too. He co-lead the session I attended on Volunteerism with Mark Waltz.

Kathy Guy - She is the Director of Community at Granger. Aren't these titles so extraordinaire? Love her blog name, too... Because Relationships Matter. Isn't that what it's all about?

Scott Hodge - Scott is the Lead Pastor for the Orchard Church in Aurora, IL. I love to read his posts! This guy is so passionate about what he does - LOVE that!

Mark Batterson - Mark is the author of one of my favorite books, "In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day". Haven't read it you say? Go pick it up! Now. Do it. Mark is the Lead Pastor for National Community Church in Washington D.C. Yep - it's called the theater church! Why? Check it out for yourself!

Monday, December 03, 2007

Who are we serving?

This has to be the best blog entry I've read in a long time! Brilliant!

I'm always talking about customer service on this blog... but this one knocks it out of the park as far as I'm concerned!

Who are we serving? Who is our customer? Great questions for the church to ponder.

Saturday, December 01, 2007

It's SNOWING, It's SNOWING!

OK - so I just had to share in my excitement!!!! It's snowing!!!!! I have been indoors cleaning closets out and I just noticed that our pond is completely white!!!! I am so excited.

I remember when I was kid I thought snow was magic. There's just something about that first snowfall that IS still truly magic to me.

Gotta go - - gotta run outside with my daughter to relish in this moment...

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Stories!

One of the coolest parts of my job is hearing all the God-sized, life-altering stories. Honestly, it's why I do what I do. It's what keeps me coming back to work everyday. Motivation. Inspiration.

For the past few weeks we have been talking about an outreach that Crossroads is heading up on December 15 entitled Project Share... Food. Love. Hope. (read my previous entries about the project.) It's been amazing to see the number of people who have stepped up and stepped out to help a community of hurting, hungry families. The most exciting thing for me are the stories I've had the privilege of hearing about. Stories of sacrifice, of paying-it-forward, of giving selflessly to something bigger than Christmas presents. Here is just a glimpse into some of those stories...

"My family and I traditionally do a $25 white elephant gift exchange since our family is so big. It's been fun and it's made us laugh over the years, but this year, I encouraged everyone to donate to Project Share their $25 that they would normally spend on their white elephant gifts. Because of what Crossroads is doing, my family and I will make a substantial gift to your project. In addition, it opened doors for me to be able to invite them to your Christmas services. Thank you!"

"I didn't know how I was going to give. I knew I wanted to give something, but I have nothing. I'm selling things in my house to raise money to donate. This is such a good cause and I'm grateful to be a part of it!"

"I want my kids to see what it's like to be less-fortunate. We want to deliver boxes to homes so my family can be a part of something so much bigger than themselves!"

"Thank you for Project Share! Going through the devotionals has helped my family and I tremendously! Our family normally goes up north between Christmas and New Years. Because we've been so touched by Project Share, we have decided to donate the money we would normally spend on the vacation to the project. Thank you."

"My kids go to Crossroads, but we don't, however, we've been so moved by what you all are doing we want to help. Can we help serve anywhere on that day even though we don't attend?"

WOW! Our God is an AWEsome God!

Will you pray with me for all the individuals who will serve at Project Share on December 15 and pray for the families who will be receiving Food, Love and Hope this holiday season?

Monday, November 26, 2007

I'm a new GREAT AUNT!



I am a great aunt...

My niece, Tiffany, gave birth to baby Jayvian Lee on November 16 at 4:25 p.m. He is perfect if I do say so myself!

This is one of my favorite pics of him! Love that baby yawn! :)

A Violin!?

Okay - so my daughter isn't much into 'toys' anymore. Well - - to be honest, she never was. I remember the times when we would practically need a fork lift just to haul the things out of grandmas living room on Christmas morning! It was THAT bad. We would buy her all kinds of toys, but in reality she would never play with them! Last year the big ticket items was a Bitty Baby from American Girl Doll Company! I got her the doll, 5 outfits and my mom got her the baby crib for the Bitty Baby. I can probably count on ONE hand the times I actually saw her playing with that doll and that crib! I think her playmates got far more use out of it than she did!

So - this year my baby is 7. She's not into toys and has no real need for anything. I'm not just saying this because I'm her mom and I KNOW she doesn't NEED anything - but that's exactly what she told my sister-in-law over the Thanksgiving break. When my sister asked her what she wanted from Santa this year, her response was fairly simple - "I need nothing. I don't play with toys, I don't like Barbie's and mom won't let me have Brat dolls! I just want a violin this year. That's all really!"

Um - - okay! I think I can... I mean I think SANTA can do that!

To be honest, she's a bit obsessed with playing an instrument and I can't figure out if it has less to do with actually playing an instrument and more to do with feeling like a big girl carrying her case in with the other students who take lessons at school once a week! Either way, we want our daughter to play an instrument and if she says she wants the violin, I think we owe it to her to try it out.

To that end - - does anyone know where I can purchase an inexpensive violin? Perhaps maybe even a used on in good shape?

This is going to be the easiest holiday shopping ever! :)

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Thankful!







I can't believe tomorrow is Thanksgiving already! I have to admit - I am excited about the snow we're supposed to get this afternoon/evening! It's just an added bonus getting it for Thanksgiving instead of having to wait for Christmas! :)


Here are TEN reasons I am thankful this Thanksgiving...


1.) For my Jesus who died for ME and who loves me unconditionally!

2.) For my wonderful family! Thanks for loving me despite my imperfections (oh, my many imperfections!)

3.) For my wonderful friends! Thanks for believing in me, standing by me and sharing your life with me!

4.) For my health.

5.) For the food my family will be able to consume this Thanksgiving Day! For turkey, mashed potatoes, cornbread stuffing, rolls, sweet potatoes, corn, pumpkin pie and did I mention mashed potatoes?

6.) For my home. That I will have a safe, warm place to be this Thanksgiving holiday!

7.) For some time off from work to relax and refresh at home with my family.

8.) For the soldiers who are serving our country so selflessly this holiday season who won't have an opportunity to be home with their loved ones.

9.) For the shopping centers all across America that will be open at the CRACK of dawn on Friday so that crazy fools like me can be out freezing their rear ends off just to save a couple bucks on Christmas gifts!

10.) For this blog - - a place where I can share my thoughts on being thankful! :)






Happy Turkey Day!


Monday, November 19, 2007

What Matters...?

Got this in an email today and wanted to share it...

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schultz, the creator of the "Peanuts" comic strip. You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just read the e-mail straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America Contest.
4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name t he last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

How did you do?

The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. They are not second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are NOT the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones who care.

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Where Do They Come Up With This Stuff?

So - I was on my way to my mom and dads this afternoon to take Chloe over there for a couple hours while I went to work. I don't know where she got this from, but clear out of the blue she says, "I KNOW the rules for grandma and grandpa's house... Don't make them tired, Don't hurt them, don't eat all their food, listen and SHUSH!"

I couldn't stop laughing....

Where in the world do they come up with this stuff?

(my parents got a real hoot out of it too!)

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

It's ALL about the Guest Experience!

I have been working hard to take my serving team to a whole new level for 2008. We have some amazing things in the works and I am excited about the direction God is leading us and look forward to ways He is going to lead us in the upcoming year!

I have created a Volunteer Handbook that I am slowly, but surely adding to every couple months. I just finished part 2 and I wanted to share that with you today.

My serving area is all about the guest experience. What we realize is - - there are people coming through our doors this coming Sunday from all walks of life. Some have never been to church before. Some have been scared off from church in the past. Then there are the ones who are skeptical... who aren't really sure about this whole place called church and who this "Christ" man is. Three things I continually stress to my team are:
  • We cannot lose sight of why we do what we do!
  • There are people who are depending on us week in and week out who need Christ - - we've got to BE ON OUR GAME to deliver the best guest experience possible.
  • Christ died for every person walking through our church doors every week... they need what we have - they need to know how much they are loved!

I recently had a meeting with my team and challenged them the following:

To make 2 personal contacts the next time they serve. This should be a "personal" interaction with a new person or someone they've never seen or talked with at church. In addition, I am asking them to do the following:

  • Make Eye Contact
  • Smile
  • Greet them with, "How are you today?", "My name is ____, how can I serve you?" and "I'm glad you joined us today!"

I've asked everyone to report their interactions at our next All Team meeting in January.

What I do know is this... people want to feel that they belong. They want to be included and they want the interaction. We have the opportunity of a lifetime... it's up to us.

The following the addition to your Volunteer Handbook... it's something we're incorporating into our Team's culture. (excerpts taken from "Be Our Guest" Perfecting the Art of Customer Service)

What’s Happening Center Guidelines for Guest Service 11/2007

Make Eye Contact and Smile!
Start and end every Guest contact and communication with direct eye contact and a sincere smile.

Greet and Welcome Each and Every Guest
Extend the appropriate greeting to every Guest with whom you come into contact.
“Good morning.”
“Welcome!” / “Have a good day.”
“May I help you?” / “How can I serve you today?”

Seek out Guest Contact
It is the responsibility of every member of this team to seek out Guests who need help or assistance.
Listen to Guests’ needs
Answer Questions
Offer assistance

Provide Immediate Service Recovery
It is the responsibility of all members of this team to attempt, to the best of their abilities, to immediately resolve a Guest service failure before it becomes a Guest service problem.
Always find the answer for the Guest and/or find another team member who can help the Guest.

Display Appropriate Body Language at All Times
It is the responsibility of every team member to display approachable body language when serving.
Attentive appearance
Good posture
Appropriate facial expressions

Preserve the Guest Experience
Always focus on the positive, rather than the rules and regulations.
Talking about personal or job-related problems in front of the Guests is unacceptable.

Thank Each and Every Guest
Extend every Guest a sincere thank-you at the conclusion of every interaction.Extend a “Thank you for being with us today” or similar expression of appreciation as the Guest leaves our serving area.

Again, I am looking forward to seeing where God takes this team in the upcoming year! I am so blessed to be working along-side of some wonderful people!

Monday, November 12, 2007

The Cutest Thing Ever!

SURELY this is the cutest thing I have EVER seen!

Please be sure to watch it!

Oh... and get your Kleenex BOX!

W

Thursday, November 08, 2007

Self Serve Lanes

I'm one of those people who was not blessed by God with patience. It's just not part of my DNA. I pray about patience all the time - - it's just something I struggle with.

So - grocery lines really TEST my patience.

Grocery time for me is traditionally Monday evenings after work (5:30'ish). Note to everyone who is looking for a routine day/time - - don't choose Monday's at 5:30 p.m. unless you have a couple of hours to spend. Not at Wal-Mart anyway!

Today is Thursday... I'm a little late in shopping this week. So - needless to say, there were some things I HAD to get like bread, chicken, milk... you know, something to actually MAKE a meal with. SO... I headed to Wal-Mart for a "quick" trip. hahahaha!

Can someone PLEASE tell me why we even have the "speedy" Self Serve lanes in these places??? REALLY! Half the time they don't work and EVERY time I end up losing patience before I'm finished. First of all - the darn scanners never work. Then you have to wait for an employee to come over to punch in some 39 digit code to allow me back in to scan... that's IF she or he's not too busy talking to another employee in the lane beside me! Then the skip bagging deal - - seriously - what's that about? Okay - I can't place everything on that little scale at the end so naturally I am going to skip bagging to put the items in my cart. Then my red light begins flashing and my screen says "Too many skip bag items, please see store clerk." Okay - another 5 minutes waiting for the cashier to mosey over to see how she can totally be inconvenienced by my presence. Then I FINALLY make it to the finish and it's time to insert my cash. Yeah right! After putting in dollar bill after dollar bill being rejected by the silly machine, I'm ready to bust b/c now the machine is repeatedly telling me "please insert cash, please insert cash." Um -- lady, I'm trying to!!!!!

I don't think I'm going to self serve again...

Monday, November 05, 2007

Family Devotions!

I love doing family devotions. Really gives my family a way to connect. Especially in the hectic-ness of our everyday lives... it gives us a chance to come together and talk about the ways in which God has blessed us!

I have to say - I am PUMPED UP about a GREAT thing Crossroads is doing this holiday season. This year we have decided to replace our annual Summer's End Carnival with an outrageous outreach that we've entitled, Project Share: Food. Love. Hope. This project is like nothing we have ever done before. On December 15, 2 semi's filled with food and personal care items will be delivered to the grounds of the Christian Family Centre. We will have enough food and care items to personally deliver to 800 families who will be less fortunate this season. Each box of food will be enough to feed a family of 4 for a week! I can't wait! I feel tremendously blessed to be able to partner with other Crossroaders to make this Christmas a special Christmas for families in our community suffering from hunger.

One of the neat things we are offering families in our church community is a family devotional book. There are two family devotions each week leading up to Project Share. Each devotional includes a lesson and a family activity.

This week's activity is about Food. The family activity is about finding ways to share food with other people this week. Here is what my family came up with:
  • Donate can food items to the local soup kitchen.
  • Prepare a meal for a family in our neighborhood.
  • Make a plate of cookies for the staff at my daughter's school to let them know how thankful we are for them and what they do for us week in and week out.

It's SO much fun to think about the MANY ways we have been blessed and in turn, how we can bless back to others.

As my family gobbled up our dinner of grilled cheese sandwiches and chili, we thanked God for all the blessings in our lives that we have so taken for granted. Our heat on this cold, fall night, warm water to take baths in, TV to watch, vehicles to drive, lights to read by, soap, soft pillows, clean clothes, loose change in our pockets... the list goes on and on.

Thank you, Father, for providing abundantly for us. Help us to be mindful of those less fortunate and may we be a blessing to others because of your love for us! Amen.

Friday, November 02, 2007

Recipe Friday

These look fantastic! :) I LOVE sweet potatoes!









Sweet Potato Fries


2 pounds sweet potatoes
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 tablespoon low-sodium chili seasoning
Salt and pepper

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Line baking sheet with aluminum foil; set aside.
Use peeler to peel sweet potatoes.
Cut potatoes in half lengthwise then cut into 1/2-inch thick fries.
Place sweet potato fries in a large mixing bowl.
Add oil and spices.
Toss until they are thoroughly coated with spices.
Spread fries in a single layer on prepared baking sheet.
Place in preheated oven.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes turning once to ensure even cooking.
Remove from oven and serve hot.

Thursday, November 01, 2007

Making an Impression

One of the things that we strive to do at Crossroads is make a lasting impression on our guests. To make their first time through our church doors not only a great first impression, but to wow them with an overall terrific guest experience.

I'm reading a book entitled "Beyond the First Visit" and it's about connecting guests to your church. What gets them in the front door and then what keeps them coming back. It's unfortunate, but the church today competes with all kinds of other opportunities presented on Sunday morning. What is the church doing to create irresistible environments where people are excited to come back next Sunday? When was the last time YOU were wowed by your church? This is taken directly from the book (some language altered) and I thought I would share it this afternoon...

If you were a guest visiting your church...

1. Would you be impressed with the facility and landscaping?
2. Would you be able to find the restrooms without asking?
3. Would you feel comfortable leaving your child in kid's church?
4. Would you understand what takes place during the worship experience?
5. Would you feel embarrassed or pressured during your visit?
6. Would you be greeted and accepted as you are?
7. Would you come back next week?

Just some interesting questions to ponder. Let's not get so comfortable with our own environment that we forget about those who have yet to experience the greatness we have experienced! The story we have to share about how much God loves them is TOO AWESOME not to do all we can to make the first visit a great one!

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

What Was I thinking...?

Well - obviously last night, I wasn't thinking at all!

So - there I was in line at Country Market with ALL my $100 worth of groceries and the cashier JUST finished ringing up my last 3 items when I felt like I was going to pass out! YES - it happened! I had left my wallet (with money, bank cards AND checkbook) at my office! You should have seen the look on my face when she read me my total, "That will be $96.27 ma'am." It didn't help that I was shopping during PEAK hours when the store was REALLY busy. So - needless to say, I had to suck it up and tell her I had NO WAY of paying and that I would have to be back once I went to get my wallet! How pathetic am I? And HOW did this happen, you ask? Well - b/c for whatever reason I just brought my wallet into my office yesterday - not my entire purse and somehow I just walked off without it! Nice!

So - after retrieving my wallet I headed back to the store to ring up the groceries a second time and actually pay for them!

This week's off to a great start already! Gotta love Mondays...

Saturday, October 27, 2007

My Dad...

I have a great dad! He's truly a gift to me and my family.

Yesterday, I got to spend time with my dad. We had lunch together. It's not often that we have these moments... life is busy and I just don't see him as much as I would like. But yesterday I was reminded of how precious these moments are.

I wanted to share just some of the MANY things I love about my dad...

  • He's a real man of God.
  • He's a loving grandfather.
  • He's loyal.
  • He's generous beyond measure.
  • He's understanding.
  • He's gentle.
  • He's funny!
  • He's dependable.
  • He's smart.
  • He's my dad - and I love him!

Today I just wanted to pay tribute to my friend, my mentor... my dad. THANK you for your love. THANK you for giving me life. THANK you for being you!

Friday, October 26, 2007

Happy Halloween Recipe FRIDAY


These are really cute and look like fun! I always like to make some special treats this time of year... :)








Thursday, October 25, 2007

We're Off to See the Wizard!

Yep - it's official, Chloe's gonna be Dorothy for Halloween! I tried talking her into this last year and she wasn't interested. This year - she complied. No... actually it was HER idea!

I love the Wizard of Oz! It's got to be one of my ALL time favorites!

Now - - to find the red ruby slippers... :)

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

When God says, "Slow Down!"

What do you get when you work like a horse without a break, eat on the run all week long, have multiple projects going at one time and get very little sleep in between? The flu! That's what you get! And I got it last week! God spoke.. "Slow down." I failed to listen. He spoke again, "Slow down." I still failed to listen. So - - he made it so that I had NO OTHER CHOICE than to slow down! I'll admit - it drives me nuts to slow down. I just like the fast pace life. Always got something planned... always have somewhere to be and someone to see. That's my life. But every now in then, we have to take time to s-l-o-w it down a bit. Take time out for ourselves - - to take care of ourselves and nourish ourselves back to health!

Next time God says, "Slow down" I'm gonna listen...

Friday, October 19, 2007

Recipe Friday

Making this for a shower that I am hosting for my niece tomorrow afternoon... I hope it turns out...

AUTUMN APPLE PUNCH

1 1/2 qt Apple juice
2 Cinnamon sticks
8 Whole cloves
1 1/3 c Pineapple juice
1/2 c Lemon juice
2 pt Orange juice
28 oz Ginger ale

Place apple juice in a NON-aluminum kettle; tie spices in cheesecloth, add to kettle, and simmer uncovered 15 minutes; discard spice bag. Mix spiced juice with remaining fruit juices. To serve, place a large block of ice in a large punch bowl, add fruit juice and ginger ale.

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Ramblings (and other useless information)!

Hello blog world! I know, I know... I haven't been too consistent lately in my blogging. I wish I could write every day - - but I am close enough to my goal of 3 times per week. :)

So - - here are some ramblings of things that have been going on in my world as of late...

  • Sunday evening I finished all FIVE of my daughters classroom baskets for the all-school auction coming up this Saturday, October 20 at her school. Wow! That was an undertaking! I agreed to lead the charge for the five baskets donated by the parents of Chloe's second grade classroom. What a job that was! But they did turn out nice, I have to say. We did 5 themed baskets that will be auctioned off this Saturday. The themes we did are, 1.) Bath Time Fun Basket, 2.) Baker's Basket, 3.) College Exam-Cram Care Basket, 4.) Boredom Busters Basket and 5.) Half Time Snacks Basket. If you're planning to attend the auction, now bid generously! :) They are WORTH it!
  • I am preparing for my niece's baby shower this coming Saturday, October 20 at my house! Wow! Yes - another big project I'm leading the charge of. It will be exciting! She is having a boy (Jayvian) sometime in November. :) First baby and YES - this will make me a Great Aunt for the SECOND time! I feel so old!
  • I'm just getting over what I think was a touch of the flu. YUCK! There's nothing worse than being sick! Makes you SO appreciate the times you feel good! Thank you, God, for my health!
  • Remember my blog on "Conversations" where I talked about interviewing someone to work the What's Happening Center at church on Sundays? She joined the team! I am so excited! She's going to add so much energy to the team! Welcome aboard, Lisa! :)
  • The staff at Crossroads is reading this book right now. It's a good one so far! We've actually gone through most all of Lencioni's books! If you haven't read any of them - I highly recommend them!
  • Project Share is well under way, Crossroaders! Keep your eyes and ears open for more info coming soon! This will be an AWESOME project and a great way to contribute to the needs in our county! Stay tuned for more...
  • Chloe has a dentist appointment tomorrow afternoon. Pray for her! This will be her third visit in a month. The problem is - she has teeth coming in at a rapid speed, but she's not losing them quite as quickly! Last time we were there she had to have a filling and a baby tooth removed to make room for the new one popping out. Tomorrow she will need to have another tooth pulled on the other side of her mouth! Let's just say - she's not too happy about that! She doesn't mind the work they do - she just hates to be numbed. Who really enjoys that anyway? Her biggest worry: How will I be able to eat? Oh - she's her mommas child indeed!
  • We visited one of my favorite stores on the planet this past weekend. I SO miss going to this place! I couldn't go there enough when Chloe was a baby! Stuff's a little pricey - but just being in there made me yearn for another little one!
  • Can I just say that I have the best husband in the world! When I was down sick the other day, he went to Kohl's and bought me new bedding for our bed! It's a set we had been admiring the weekend before. When I was sleeping, he snuck out to Kohl's to buy it and then came home and put it on the bed. It looked picture picture when I woke up! I think he's a keeper!
  • Chloe takes gymnastics every Wednesday night at Maple City Gymnastics. She loves it! I must admit though, she is not the best one in her class. As a matter of fact, I was a little frightened the first couple of times that she might be in a too far advanced class, but I think she's catching on. It's been a while since she was in gymnastics and so, getting used to things again was a little challenging. It's super-fun to watch, her, though, and I really believe it's building self-confidence!

Friday, October 12, 2007

Recipe FRIDAY!

This looks so good. And it's the perfect time of year. With the
cooler weather here - this is something I might even make this weekend! :)

BTW - if you haven't been to this website yet, you've got to check it out. They have some tasty and simple recipes. This one came from there. ENJOY!

Layered Pumpkin Loaf

1 cup canned pumpkin
1 cup plus 2 Tbsp. granulated sugar, divided
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
4 egg whites, divided
1/2 cup fat-free milk
1/4 cup canola oil
2 cups flour
2-1/2 tsp. Baking Powder
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1/4 tsp. salt
1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Neufchatel Cheese, 1/3 Less Fat than Cream Cheese, softened

PREHEAT oven to 350ºF. Grease a nonstick 9x5-inch loaf pan; set aside. Mix pumpkin, 1 cup granulated sugar, the brown sugar, 3 of the egg whites, milk and oil in large bowl. Add flour, baking powder, pie spice and salt; stir just until moistened. Set aside. Beat Neufchatel cheese, remaining 2 Tbsp. granulated sugar and the remaining egg white with wire whisk until well blended.

SPOON half of the pumpkin batter into prepared pan; spoon Neufchatel cheese mixture evenly over the batter. Cover with remaining pumpkin batter.

BAKE 1 hour to 1 hour 5 min. or until wooden toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Run knife or thin spatula around edges of pan to loosen bread; cool in pan on wire rack 10 min.

Remove bread from pan to wire rack; cool completely.

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Conversations...

Got to hang out and have a great conversation with a wonderful woman this morning about the possibility of joining my team, the What's Happening Center, at my church. She is a great lady whom I feel has a lot to offer. She's outgoing, energetic and has a real "eye" for customer service. I am so thrilled about the possibility of her joining us, beginning next month!

Crossroaders out there - - we are currently seeking individuals who are ready to take their next step toward Christ and hop on board with us at the What's Happening Center! We have GREAT opportunities for you to get involved and make a difference in the lives of our guests and attenders!

If you have a heart to serve... we want to talk with you!
If you have a desire to see life change... we want to talk with you!
If you want help people take a next step at Crossroads and with Christ... we want to talk with you!
If you want to be a part of a team who loves God and want to serve Him fully and faithfully... we want to talk with you!

God is doing incredible things here at Crossroads and I am so blessed to be working along side of some of the most amazing volunteers on the planet! If you want to be a part of something BIG, something GOD-sized, consider getting involved with the What's Happening Center, where we get to be a part of God's design of changing lives!

If you are interested - - simply email me (wendy@ilovemychurch.org). I'd love to talk with you about how we can get your plugged into your new serving role!

Tuesday, October 09, 2007

Today...

~ I woke up 20 minutes late for work. I totally have NO idea how Trevor's alarm AND my alarm both failed to work!

~ I went to Tim Horton's for breakfast... plain bagel, plain cream cheese, toasted with a large drink. Can I just say that I LOVE the customer service at T.H.'s. They totally get it! I honestly can't recall a time that I waited for anything there!

~ My daughter received a 100% on a pre-spelling test. YIPPEE! She has the skill of memorization!

~ I saw a friend of mine I haven't seen in ages. She is just recovering from a divorce from her husband of almost 12 years! They were married before Trevor and I were! I went to their wedding. Very sad!

~ I forgot to pick up water softener salt from the store - - AGAIN!

~ I read a chapter from this book. What a good read. This is the only book I've read in a long time that I actually have to put it down after each chapter to allow myself time to "process" the information.

~ I made dinner for my family -- Chicken and Bow Tie Pasta. They liked it and both of them ate seconds! :)

~ I thanked God for the fall and the cooler weather that we're about to be blessed with. I am so over the 85 - 90 degree days!

~ I walked into a MESS my dog made while we were at work. He actually climbed up on top of the kitchen counter and ate an ENTIRE plate of chocolate chip cookies I made on Saturday!! Can I just say he's a 115 pound Golden Retriever that was almost sold to the first bidder on ebay this evening! ARRGHHH!

Friday, October 05, 2007

I can't Wait Until Thanksgiving...

... I'm making this now!

I made this last year when we had Thanksgiving at our house and it was a HUGE hit. I couldn't wait until Thanksgiving to eat it again. I bought the items this week to make it this weekend. You HAVE to try it!

Recipe Friday

Cornbread and Andouille Stuffing

2 teaspoons unsalted butter
1/2 pound andouille, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onions
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped green bell peppers
1 tablespoon minced garlic Basic Cornbread, recipe follows
3 slices white or whole wheat bread, torn into 1/2-inch pieces
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
1teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
2 large eggs, beaten
1 to 2 cups chicken stock, as needed

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Generously butter a 13 by 9-inch baking dish and set aside. In a large skillet, cook the sausage until brown and the fat is rendered, about 5 minutes. Add onions, celery, bell peppers, and garlic, and cook for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and transfer to a large bowl to cool. With your fingers, crumble the corn bread into the bowl, add bread, the green onions, parsley, and thyme, and mix well with your hands. Add the salt, pepper, cayenne, and eggs, and mix well with your hands. Add enough broth, 1/2 cup at a time, to moisten the dressing, being careful not to make it mushy. Transfer to the prepared dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake until heated through, about 25 minutes. Uncover and bake until golden brown, about 15 minutes.

Basic Cornbread: 1 tablespoon plus 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1 cup yellow cornmeal 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon cayenne 1 cup buttermilk 1 egg
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Pour the vegetable oil into a 9-inch baking pan or heavy cast iron skillet. Place the pan into the oven as it preheats, allowing it to heat for at least 10 minutes. Combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and cayenne in a large mixing bowl and stir with a wooden spoon. Add the buttermilk and egg to the mixture, and stir well to blend. Pour the cornmeal batter into the preheated pan and bake in the oven for 25 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving or using in the dressing. Note: When making the dressing, make cornbread the day before. Yield: 8 servings

Monday, October 01, 2007

Random Thoughts Part II

I like to blog this way. Let's me get out all of that "stuff" that's seemingly locked away in my brain... so here it goes... my Random Thoughts Part II:

- I'm so getting these for this winter. Laugh all you want - but these shoes ROCK! If you haven't tried on a pair of regular Crocs yet - - let me just tell you what you're missing! Comfort... pure comfort, baby! Gotta get these ones made for the winter months, though!

- Inspired by this website, I have decided to sit down with my hubby each Sunday and actually "plan out" the weeks meals! I decided to do this for 2 reasons... 1.) I was tired of going to the grocery store each Monday and buying things - but nothing really "for an entire meal", just some random things (not to mention I shop when I'm hungry, I know - bad idea!) and 2.) It makes it a lot easier than getting home to try to decide what the whole family would like for dinner. This way - it's chicken - or NOTHING. It's Taco Salad - or NOTHING. Got the idea here?

- There are only 85 shopping days left until Christmas! Can you believe it??

- Two of my friends recommended this movie. I'm planning to take Chloe on Friday night! :) Can't wait!

- I started a new book this weekend. It's called Confessions of Pastor by Craig Groeschel. It's pretty good! Very easy read.

- I bought 5 new movies at Wal*Mart the other day for only $3.98 each!! They are... Mission Impossible 2, Mission Impossible 3, Dreamer, Failure to Launch and The Last Holiday. Not bad for less than $20. I love Wal*Mart!

- So am I the worst mom in the world? Last week, my second grader came home with a fundraiser envelope from school. Honestly, I did look through the book, but it immediately got trashed. I DON'T do school fundraisers. At least not the kind where you have to actually go door-to-door selling items from a book. I have no desire to ask my family and co-workers for money to help my daughters school or classroom earn more money. I don't do them for 2 simple reasons... 1.) The quality of the items aren't anywhere close to the price you have to pay! and 2.) I have no desire to bombard people who are already being bombarded by 12 other students hoping you'll buy what they're sellin'! No thanks, it's not for me. I'd rather give a cash donation to the school or classroom instead of guilting people into buying from us!

- I'm currently in the market for a new vehicle. I have to be honest, though, I detest going car shopping. My hubby, on the other hand, will do his homework THOROUGHLY before buying anything. I've already decided on this. :) (Trevor - you need not look any further!)

Friday, September 28, 2007

I'm So Making This!

I haven't tried this yet - - but it's on my list...

Recipe FRIDAY...

Chicken and Bows

1 pkg Bow Tie Pasta (16 ounce)
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 c chopped, sweet red pepper
1/4 cup butter, cubed
2 cans condensed cream of chicken soup (10-3/4 ounces each)
2 c frozen peas
1-1/2 cups milk
1 t garlic powder
1/4 to 1/2 t salt
1/4 t pepper
2/3 c grated Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a Dutch oven, cook chicken and red pepper in butter over medium heat for 5-6 minutes or until chicken juices run clear.

Stir in the soup, peas, milk, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Drain pasta; add to chicken mixture and toss to coat.

YUMMY! Maybe I will try this one tonight! :) I like the fact that this one is EASY and not requires minimum time! (I never have very much time!)

Thanks for stopping by!

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

I've Got a Secret!

I have to tell you - I am pumped up! Our church is getting ready to launch something... something big. Something exciting. Something that's going to rock this city in a mighty way and I get to be involved in it! And so do you, fellow Crossroaders reading my blog... but I can't tell you. Sorry.

I know, I know - you hate that, don't you? But honestly - it's going to be awesome! Be praying for the ministry of our church. I truly believe that God is preparing us for something extraordinary, Crossroads. Fasten your seat belts...

Monday, September 24, 2007

My New Favorite Song

My husband says I have too many favorites! Maybe he's right... I don't know.

This is my new FAVORITE song! I just listen to it over and over again in the car. I'm probably driving my daughter nuts! It's by Casting Crowns (# 7 on their new album, Altar and the Door). Here are the lyrics:

Somewhere between the hot and the cold
Somewhere between the new and the old
Somewhere between who I am and who I used to be
Somewhere in the middle, You'll find me

Somewhere between the wrong and the right
Somewhere between the darkness and the light
Somewhere between who I was and who You're making me
Somewhere in the middle, You'll find me

Just how close can I get, Lord, to my surrender without losing all control?
Fearless warriors in a picket fence, reckless abandon wrapped in common sense
Deep water faith in the shallow end and we are caught in the middle
With eyes wide open to the differences, the God we want and the God who is
But will we trade our dreams for His or are we caught in the middle?
Are we caught in the middle?

Somewhere between my heart and my hands
Somewhere between my faith and my plans
Somewhere between the safety of the boat and the crashing waves
Somewhere between a whisper and a roar
Somewhere between the altar and the door
Somewhere between contented peace and always wanting more
Somewhere in the middle You'll find me

Just how close can I get, Lord, to my surrender without losing all control?

Lord, I feel You in this place and I know You're by my side
Loving me even on these nights when I'm caught in the middle!

Friday, September 21, 2007

Random Thoughts

Here are some random ramblings for you on this beautiful fall morning...

- Do you ever notice how stingy the people are in the drive-thru's with ketchup packets and dressing packets? Seriously - whenever I go to places like Taco Bell, I always place my order and at the end say, very clearly, "with EXTRA mild sauce, please." You would have thought I asked them for their first born child or something, because I always get up there and find like 3 sauce packets in my bag. Come on, people, ya' making me crazy!

- I sing in the car. I mean, I GET DOWN in the car. I feel sorry for people driving next to me - they must think I'm crazy! If you see me rockin' out in the car - just ignore me, please. :)

- I bought the new Casting Crowns CD yesterday afternoon. WOW - you've got to get it. Tracks 4 and 7 are my fav's so far!

- I've been tracking my hits on this blog for the past month. It appears the average number of readers (hits) per week is 152! :)

- What's with the 90 degree temps?? I say - bring on the fall weather. Nothing like a couple months of 65 degree days! I'm ready to be done with the hot, please!

- So, this week, my 7-year-old daughter, Chloe, jumped off the diving board at the CFC pool. I could hardly believe it when she told me! She's come a long way from even a few short months ago when she wouldn't even get her face wet! Yeah, baby!

- I had a goal this past summer to read 15 books. I only read 3. My goal for the winter won't be as high so I won't feel as bad about it when I don't make it! I just realized I've read 2.5 books within the past three weeks - - and I couldn't make it to 15 for an entire summer?

- I miss my friend, Roxanne, so much. It's been almost an entire year ago that we lost her, yet it feels like only yesterday. I love ya, Rox!

- I'm totally geeked. I had a Lia Sophia party last night and I had a $600+ show... so that means, I'm getting like $157 of FREE jewelery. Another $50 order would bump me up to $261! YEAH! Anyone still wanting to order may do so - - I am closing my show on Sunday night.

- I had to use dictionary.com twice this week to look up definitions of words I didn't know. Can I just say I love this website and I love learning new words. (No, I'm not telling you what words they were - you might laugh at the fact I didn't know what they were!)

Monday, September 17, 2007

The ATTITUDE!

Seriously - all you mothers of girls can help to answer this.. when does the "attitude" begin with girls? I'm referring to the "You can't make me" and the "It's not fair" attitudes? I swear, I would not have guessed it to begin as early as the second grade! But it's begun in my household and it's been all I can do to not pull my hair out (although I think it is turning grey!)

So this morning when I got Chloe up, I THOUGHT it was going to be a good morning. I was wrong. From the moment she placed her feet onto her bedroom floor - it was one crisis after another. First her shoes didn't fit right, then her shirt felt "funny". Then she couldn't find her wallet (she received $4 from the tooth fairy last night so she needed to put her money away). Then she didn't want to brush her hair but absolutely refused to let me touch it. Then she didn't want to put a coat on, then she wanted tennis shoes on, but couldn't find socks to wear with them. By the time we got in the car, I felt like I had wrestled a tiger. I was sweating from head to toe, forgot my lunch, dropped my cell phone on the garage floor causing it to break (not completely, it was fixable) and after arguing over shoes to wear, ended up putting my daughter into her booster seat in the back seat with NO shoes on. I have to say, by the time I got in the drivers seat, I was NOT happy. So... the "little" talk began. I told her that these types of mornings were "unacceptable". I explained that when I get her up I expect her to be ready to go with teeth brushed, hair combed, shoes on, backpack ready, water bottle filled and the dog fed. I even found myself saying, "This isn't rocket science, Chloe, these are simple things I need to have done in the morning." ROCKET SCIENCE? Where did that come from? THEN I proceeded to tell her that when we got home, she would have to clean out the entire back seat of my vehicle. It's been a mess back there for weeks. Books, crayons, stuffed animals, shoes, wrappers - - you name it - it's back there. She proceeded to pout saying that I'm mean and she always has to do everything. I said, "Well, you said the other day you want to earn money and I'm not going to give you things and give you money if you can't help around here." (I know, a simple "do it because I said so" would have been fine here - but I feel I always have to justify.) I couldn't have prepared myself for what she was about to say. She replied with, "You don't give me money or anything anyway!!!" ARRGHHH!! Part of me wanted to scream out, "Where do you think that money from the tooth fairy anyway??" but I refrained from that! At one point she did retaliate with "Some of this stuff back here, you put back here!" to which I replied, "Oh yeah, well I don't wear your underwear, but I still wash them every day!" Good one, Wendy!

Bottom line is this - - it used to be that when I got after her or scolded her, she would cry and would get very remorseful. Those days are long gone. Instead, all I get back is attitude and it's killing me!

HELP - - are there any mothers of little girls who can sympathize with me or can give me some great advice on what works or has worked for you???? Hurry - - before I lose my mind!

Thursday, September 13, 2007

50 Things You Need to Know About Me

Hey there!

So - yesterday morning those of us on staff at Crossroads went on a Team Building Adventure with the LISD. It was a lot of fun and we even got to know some things about each other we didn't know (or perhaps, in some cases, never wanted to know). :) All-in-all it was a good day. Lots of team-building stuff that, hopefully, will make us stronger as one team serving one purpose.

So it got me thinking - I am sure there are a ton of things that my readers don't know about me. So - I've started my own "tag, you're it list". The first person I'm tagging to respond on their blog is my good friend, Faythe.

50 Things You Need to Know About Me
1.) I love Jesus!
2.) I love eating chocolate frosting straight from the can!
3.) I am an only child (and no, I was not spoiled rotten!)
4.) I cut my right arm open on a barbed-wire fence when I was 9 and had to have 13 stitches.
5.) I love the rain and storms!
6.) Fall is my favorite time of the year.
7.) I am addicted to email. Seriously - ask those who know me well how often I check it even on vacations!
8.) My first job was working at an ice cream store (and I ate more ice cream than I sold, I'm sure of it!)
9.) Friday is my favorite day of the week!
10.) My dream, since I was a kid, is to become an elementary school teacher.
11.) In school, I often got in trouble for talking to much. My report cards often read, "disturbs others in class". (I know, I know... you find this SO hard to believe - but it's true!) :)
12.) My husband and I bought a vehicle on Ebay 5 years ago and drove all the way to Minnesota to pick it up and bring it home - all within 2 days!
13.) I once won a "prettiest feet contest".
14.) I had more male friends in school than female friends.
15.) I own more than 10 pairs of black shoes!
16.) I'm afraid of heights!
17.) I actually had fun and enjoyed planning my own wedding!
18.) My first boyfriend was in Kindergarten and his name was Justin.
19.) I like some rap music.
20.) My favorite subject in high school was English.
21.) My least favorite subject in high school was History.
22.) My favorite color is Burgundy.
23.) I love the smell of gasoline.
24.) I cry at Hallmark commercials!
25.) I broke my collar bone hanging upside down from a swing when I was in 2nd grade. OUCH!
26.) For my 21st birthday, my parents flew my boyfriend and I to Chicago for an afternoon.
27.) I've never had a cavity in my life!
28.) I went on a blind date once and choked on a piece of cheese pizza! (no kidding - it was awful!)
29.) I never went on another blind date again!
30.) I took a vacation when I was a senior in high school with my dad to Puerto Viarta Mexico and drank Fuzzy Navels for breakfast! (not recommended!)
31.) I hate to fly!
32.) I love to color with my daughter! It helps to relax me!
33.) I would eat Mexican food 5 days of the week if I could!
34.) I've seen the movie Titanic more than 20 times!
35.) I wrote a song when I was in high school.
36.) When I was a kid I used to think that that was my face on the Wendy's Restaurant sign! I asked my grandma, "Grandma, when did I have red hair?"
37.) My two favorite holidays are Christmas and Halloween!
38.) When I was in the fifth grade, my friend and I had a fake band. We called ourselves, "Timeout". We did concerts for my parents in our living room every Friday night!
39.) My bedtime is 11 p.m. most nights.
40.) When I can't sleep I read.
41.) My best friend (through junior high and high school), Rob, was shot and killed in Colorado January 5, 1992.
42.) Our limo driver left my husband and I on the night of our wedding and we had to ride home with friends of ours in the back of their car!
43.) I was in active labor with my daughter for 3 days!
44.) My favorite song at the moment is "By His Wounds".
45.) In my opinion Coke is much better than Pepsi!
46.) I skipped my American Lit class every day my senior year of high school.
47.) In November I will be a great aunt for the second time! (gosh I feel old!)
48.) My dream job would be to own my own party planning business.
49.) A friend of mine from high school still lives with her parents. She's 34.
50.) I like red grapes better than green ones!

Thursday, September 06, 2007

Am I Back in School Too?

Ahh - - the beginning of a brand new school year! I LOVE September. I love it for so many reasons... school is back in session and that means back to a "normal" or "semi-normal" routine, fall is nearing and leaves are beginning to fall off the trees, the air is a little crisper and of course new seasons of all my favorite shows are back (particularly CSI and House M.D.).


Chloe is in Second Grade this year! I can't believe it! When I dropped her off on last Monday, it seemed impossible that she is big enough to have her own locker and be in the big grade school wing! Simply impossible! But - she's growing up and it's happening right before my own eyes!


Can I just say - - what's with all the paperwork that comes home on a regular basis? It's like I am back in school! Almost every night she has papers that come home that I need to sort out. And it's not like I am one that can just push them aside. I have to take care of them AS they come in. So - - each night - there I sit, doing MY homework. Organizing school papers, managing homework that needs to be returned the next day, sorting out papers that she brings home that is already graded, keeping a calendar of all the events going on within the next few months. YIKES! AND of course, I'm always the mom that volunteers for any and everything. What's wrong with me? Seriously - I enjoy it. I tend to feel more guilty because of my hectic work week and not always being able to help within the classroom. I always try to help out where I can and how I can at home. :0)

Well - - I've gotta go - I'm sure there are papers I should be sorting or homework I should be reviewing...

Friday, August 31, 2007

Recipe FRIDAY

Okay - so I tricked you. This isn't really a recipe.

I am the type of person who gets hooked on certain foods pretty quickly. Like this one time... I was SO hooked on Taco Salads from Wendy's. Literally - I ate there for lunch like every other day. Then there was the time I was hooked on S'mores cereal. Go figure! If I could have talked my family into sharing my obsession with me... would have eaten it for breakfast, lunch AND dinner! At other times throughout my life I have been known to be hooked on Tootsie Rolls, Triskets, Yoplait's Strawberry/Banana yogurt, Milano cookies and even once I was hooked on those brown and serve rolls... you know the ones you can easily find at Thanksgiving and Christmas? Those ones!

I go through these phases, spurts really, and it's weird. I'm not a big "variety" person. Typically either I like it - or I don't. No black and white there.

So - my new obsession is Subway's personal pizza's. I have seen them advertised for some time now, but never really got up the nerve to try them. Like, really, who goes to Subway for their "pizza"?? If you're going to Subway, it's typically because you want a healthy sub, right?

Well - I was in line last Friday afternoon at my local Subway shop and I saw 3 people in front of me order these pizza's. So - I thought, "They must be good, so I'll try one." Well - let me tell you - if you haven't had one yet - you at least owe it to yourself to try them out! They're surprisingly pretty good. And they're decently priced. $4 for a cheese pizza and then you can get any veggies you want on it for no extra cost. YUM-O! :) Then you get Parmesan cheese and oregano to top it off and WHAL-A - you have yourself a meal.

Try it, I think you'll like it! :)

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

My Board of Directors

I heard recently that everyone should have themselves a "Board of Directors". You know what I'm talking about? People in your life that advise you, support you, guide you, protect and defend you. People that you have given the authority to speak truth into your life - - even when it hurts.

I remember when I was in high school... I had this great friend; her name was Lena. Lena was one of those "really honest" people that would tell you what she wanted to tell you - not necessarily what you wanted to hear. You know the ones I'm talking about, right? Lena was famous for her honesty. I could ask her, "Do these jeans make my butt look big?" and sometimes she would reply, "Yes. Yes, Wendy, they do." WHAT? Are you kidding me? I wasn't expecting that. But Lena taught me something. She would always say, "I love you enough to be honest with you." Okay - so maybe at age 16 I really wanted her to tell me that my butt looked great in those jeans, but it's not what I NEEDED to hear. Years late, I'm leaning the lessons that my friend taught me about how to build myself a "Board of Directors".

I have GREAT friends! No kidding! I am one of the most blessed people on the planet earth. I have had some of my closest friends for more than 20 years and then there are those of my closest whom I've only known for a couple years. Each one of them blesses me beyond words! I have one friend who is so encouraging I don't know what I'd do without her. She's my rock. She's one of those friends who always tries to get me to see the other view point and turns everything into a postive. She's amazing. I have another friend who is constantly asking me, "Are you sure you want to do that?" This friend protects me and keeps me focused. I have yet another friend who always has my back. She's there whenever I need her. She's very self-less and I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that she'd be the first one to my rescue in my time of need.

All of these people add something different to my life and they are all people that I love and respect more than they will ever know. But more than that, I have give them authority to speak truth to me. I have allowed myself to be transparent with them and I depend on them to hold me accountable. They are my Board of Directors - they are my inner core.

I read recently that every Christ-follower needs a cabinet, a board of directors, an inner circle of people who breathe love and truth into their lives daily. It goes on to list important questions to ask yourself about your selection of board members:

Who’s giving you the go-ahead?
Who speaks encouragement into your life?
Who’s in your life positioning you for progress?
Who’s in your life bringing balance to it?
Who drags you kicking and screaming to important tasks?
Who’s steady in your life?
Who will give up anything for you?
Who’s got your back?

This is what I will be focusing on over the next several weeks. Developing my Board of Directors. Bottom line is - we all want to be loved and accepted and we all want to be part of something bigger than ourselves. I believe the first step is paying close attention to the people who will go the journey with you and the ones who will stay on the journey with you. Through thick and thin. The people who will support and encourage you and maybe even slap you upside the face once or twice asking the question, "What were you thinking?"

Do you have a Board of Directors? Who speaks love and truth into your life? Who holds you accountable? I encourage you to get some members together. Life was not meant to go it alone!

Friday, August 24, 2007

Saying Goodbye...

Can I just say RIGHT NOW that I hate goodbyes?? They are never easy and I don't like them AT ALL! Here are some of my reflections as I say goodbye to two people who are near and dear to my heart...

I met Rick Mink back in November of 2004 when I applied for this position as Church Office Administrator for Crossroads. We instantly had a connection. I can't tell you what it was - but I just knew I was going to like him!

It's been a joy getting to know Rick and his lovely wife, JoAn. They have been like parents to me. They have supported me, affirmed me, guided me, loved and cared for me and taught me more than they will ever know. The things I have learned from them go far beyond just work-related lessons. Rick has taught me how to believe in myself and how to stand firm in what I believe in. He has taught me lesson after lesson about how to be a grace-filled person, even when it's hard. He's taught me about perseverance and determination. By sharing his life with me... by being completely transparent and open, he has taught be about honestly and humility and what it means to fully embrace every opportunity that comes... to seize the moment and how to take time to celebrate the wins in life.

Knowing Rick and JoAn has been an absolute joy for me. I am richer for having known them and I will forever be blessed by the legacy that they leave me. Although there is now a large void in my life, I will forever be grateful for the time we had together.

So... thank you Rick and JoAn. Thank you for sharing this journey with me. Thanks for your kindness, for your support and for your friendship. I will miss you more than you'll ever know.

Monday, August 20, 2007

An Afternoon To Remember

What do you get when you combine a beautiful Loch Erin Lake Frontage home, rain, two small canopies, rain, a basement full of yum-o desserts of all kinds, rain, a garbage-bag covered video camera, more rain and 17 people who have accepted Christ and want to make public their private confession of faith??? A WONDERFUL BAPTISM celebrating lives forever changed by Christ, that's what!

For those of you who couldn't make it out to the Baptism Celebration this past Sunday, August 19, boy did you MISS OUT on something big!

The day started out pretty bleak. I must admit I had my doubts about moving forward with an outdoor baptism in the pouring rain, but one thing I've learned about God - He is bigger than any problem we face. He knew the rain was coming long before we even planned this event and we weren't about to let a little water "rain" on this celebration!

Can I just say - we have the most incredible people in our church!!! I am constantly blown away by the support of those we serve Christ with every week! Time and again I am amazed by the countless ways our people step up to the plate to get things done! We can do what we do week in and week out because of the self-less acts of people helping to make a difference in the lives of those around them. To you, the people of Crossroads Community Church, I am honored to be doing life with you. I am honored to be able to serve Christ alongside of you. I am blessed by your love and count it a privilege to share this life journey with you.

Congratulations to all those who were baptized on a cold, rainy day in August. I know it will be an afternoon I will never forget!

Friday, August 17, 2007

Sometimes I...

...cry when putting Chloe to be at night.

...sing in the shower. YES - I said SING!

...drive to Tecumseh just to eat Basil Boy bread for dinner! No lie! If you don't believe me, you've obviously never tried it! I'm a carb-a-holic!

...call my husband during the day at work just to hear his voice.

...ask for advice and then don't take it. I'm very stubborn!

...judge others too quickly and am overly critical of myself.

...see a chick-flick at the movie theatre alone (and eat a large popcorn by myself!)

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Who Am I?

I began thinking about this question this week and I wanted to share it with you. I don't know where I'm going with this, quite yet, but hang in there with me....

Am I who I say I am?

I mean, really... am I truly who I say I am? Here's what I would say about me...

I am a Christian.
Do I reflect the love of Christ in my life?

I am a good wife.
Does my love for my husband shine through?

I am a good mom.
Would my child say she is proud to have me as her mom?

I am a learner.
Do I make every effort to continuously learn new things and accept new challenges?

I am good friend.
Do my friends know how much I love them and how much they mean to me?

I am happy person.
Can I demonstrate joy even in the midst of pain and/or trying times?

I want to be able to truly BE who I say I AM. I want the world to look at me and see me the way I see myself. I pray for the ability to always be transparent to those who know and love me. I want to be known as someone who is who she says she is. Reliable, trustworthy, willing, gentle, kind and caring. Is what is in my heart reflected in who you see on the street? I hope so! With God's help I will continue to bridge the gap between who I say I am and who I know I am.

Thanks for letting me babble!

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

WHAT?!?!

Can ANYONE guess what this is???
Seriously - - there's a Weed Trimmer in it for whoever guesses right first!
:0 LOL!

Saturday, August 11, 2007

I Will Be Here

I think I have mentioned before that Trevor and I are part of the Marriage Mentor team at our church. It has been an exciting journey and we are down to our final 2 meetings. Today we will meet with our 3 other Mentor couples for training. We have all been asked to bring our wedding pictures to share with the group. This morning I pulled ours out of storage (even had to wipe the bottom of the box from the dust that has gathered on it) and we began looking through the book - - how funny! We have changed so much over the past 10 1/2 years! We look like kids... but then again, I guess we were!

Looking at these pictures reminded me of how much Trevor and I have changed - but mostly how much we have been changed on the inside. It's amazing how much we two have grown. Grown in our love and with Christ. The journey hasn't always been easy - but there is NO ONE I would rather share my life with than with Trevor. He is the absolute love of my life and I thank God daily for him!

Here is the words to the song that was played during the candlelight ceremony on our wedding day. These words are so appropriate. Time has not changed our love and I look forward to 50 more wonderful years with my husband...

I Will Be Here(Steven Curtis Chapman)

Tomorrow morning if you wake up
and the sun does not appear
I will be here

If in the dark, we lose sight of love
Hold my hand, and have no fear
'Cause I will be here

I will be here
When you feel like being quiet
When you need to speak your mind
I will listen
And I will be here
When the laughter turns to cryin'
Through the winning, losing and trying
We'll be together
I will be here

Tomorrow morning, if you wake up
And the future is unclear
I will be here

Just as sure as seasons were made for change
Our lifetimes were made for these years
So I will be here

I will be here
And you can cry on my shoulder
When the mirror tells us we're older
I will hold you
And I will be here
To watch you grow in beauty
And tell you all the things you are to me
I will be here

I will be true to the promise I have made
To you and to the One who gave you to me

Tomorrow morning, if you wake up
And the sun does not appear
I will be here

Oh, I will be here.

I love you, Trevor!

Friday, August 10, 2007

Recipe FRIDAY!

My family loves pasta of just about any kind. My favorite is Bow Tie Pasta... Trevor's is Penne Pasta... and Chloe's is any kind of spiral or spaghetti noodle. This is a great recipe. Very filling and good for entertaining (which I love to do).

Five Cheese Penne Pasta

Kosher salt
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup crushed tomatoes in thick tomato puree
1/2 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano (1 1/2 ounces)
1/2 cup shredded imported Italian fontina (1 1/2 ounces)
1/4 cup crumbled Italian Gorgonzola (1 1/2 ounces)
2 tablespoons ricotta cheese
1/4 pound fresh mozzarella, sliced
6 fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 pound imported penne rigate pasta
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter

Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F.

Bring 5 quarts of salted water to a boil in a stockpot.

Combine all the ingredients except the penne and butter in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.

Drop the penne into the boiling water and parboil for 4 minutes. Drain well in a colander and add to the ingredients in the mixing bowl, tossing to combine.

Divide the pasta mixture among 6 shallow ceramic gratin dishes (1 1/2 to 2-cup capacity). Dot with the butter and bake until bubbly and brown on top, 7 to 10 minutes.

HINT: I would suggest getting the cheese at WHOLE FOODS in Ann Arbor. Great place. If you haven't been there - GO! NOW! It's a bit on the pricey side, but the selections are incredible!!

ENJOY!

Wednesday, August 08, 2007

Loving Diego!

Meet Diego. He is one amazing little boy! We are truly blessed to have him in our lives!

A little background on our friend... he was born with FAS (Fetal Alcohol Syndrome). He was adopted by my friend, Faythe and her husband, Joe, when he was just a baby. Diego has overcome several obstacles already in his young life. To know him, is to love him. From the moment I met him, I feel in love with him... and, oh yeah, by the way - so did my daughter! That's another story for another blog entry. :)

Today we had the privilege of watching Diego while his mom was at a meeting (can't wait to hear all about it, Faythe!) and his dad was at work. I love days with Diego. He is such a lovable, caring little boy. Spending time with him and being a recipient of Diego's love and affection reminds me of the simple, child-like love that Jesus wants for us to come to Him with. It's an honor to know you, my friend. And my prayer for you is that you will always know how much you are loved, and how much you mean to so many people whose lives you have forever touched.

Now - on to the funny part of this story (dry your eyes, now!)

Chloe was reading Diego a book on the way home tonight. She was very serious as she read about Shanna and her "animals". Diego, being Diego, delights in making people laugh. Literally, he CRACKS me up! This book is a simple rhyming book (most likely way below Diego's reading level as he is an excellent reader!) One of the parts in the book goes something like this... "I rhyme with money, hop, hop, hop... I am a ----" and of course it's bunny! Well - Diego thought it would be funny to say something different (not wanting to state the obvious) so he says... CHICKEN! If that wasn't funny enough (that one got a good snort laugh from me) he says, "Umm... Antelope!" Like what kid thinks of "Antelope!" (Just shows how smart this kid is!) Antelope! Okay - so it doesn't rhyme with money and it obviously was the incorrect answer - but I thought I would die from laughter from this dialog exchange between an eight-year-old and a seven-year old! PRICELESS - -simply PRICELESS.

These are the moments to remember!

Tuesday, August 07, 2007

Rain, Rain... Go AWAY!

Okay, can I just say it now that I can't stand it when my husband is right and has to say, "I told you so!" This was one of those mornings.

I am on vacation this week and have planned a bunch of day trips with Chloe, my 7-year-old daughter. One of those trips included visiting the waterpark in Ypsi today. It's a sad day because when I woke up this morning - it was POURING. So - no waterpark today. :( Maybe tomorrow.

I guess our grass needs it and our pond has been crying out for rain forever, so all-in-all it's a good thing. We'll just have to be a little more creative in our plans today is all.

Friday, August 03, 2007

Recipe FRIDAY!

I keep forgetting about my 'Recipe Friday' entries! I guess the time just keep slippin' away from me! I can't believe another Friday is upon us! :)

Here is a recipe from one of my favorites, Rachael Ray! Although I haven't actually MADE this yet - - I plan to do so next week (when I am on VACATION!!) Looks delicious!

Flank Steak Pinwheels

1 large flank steak, butterflied along the grain
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 ounces Asiago, shredded
8 ounces curly loose spinach leaves, washed, patted dry, stems removed
6 ounces Gorgonzola, crumbled
4 scallions, left whole
8 to 10 wooden skewers, soaked in water

Preheat grill or grill pan to high.
To butterfly the flank steak, start with the meat grain running up and down in front of you. With your knife, begin cutting the meat in half. Essentially, you want a thinner, larger flank steak. Continue cutting the flank steak in half until you reach about 1 inch from completely cutting through. Lay the cut flank steak open and even out the middle so there is not a thicker piece in the center. Or just ask the butcher!

Spread the flank steak out so that the grain is running left to right. Begin layering the flank steak with salt and pepper, the Asiago, then the spinach, the Gorgonzola and scallions. Begin rolling the flank steak tightly and away from you. Evenly insert the skewers 1 to 2 inches along the seam of the pinwheel to hold it together on the grill. Cut in between each skewer but not against the skewer; you want the same amount of meat on either side of each skewer. Grill the pinwheels on each side for about 3 to 4 minutes or until your desired doneness.

As my good friend, Rachael, would say... YUM-O!
(Okay, I don't actually KNOW Rachael Ray - but I do know I want to be her when I grow up!) :)
Summer's almost over, people - - - this is a great one for the grill!

Wednesday, August 01, 2007

Tooth Fairy - - where are you???

Okay - so I have to be the world's worst mom... ever! My daughter lost her third tooth last week. Well - it was actually on Friday and she wanted to put it under her pillow for the tooth fairy to find, but she was having a friend stay the night, so I didn't think it was a very good idea. So - we put it off to the next day - and then we forgot. Then last night we finally remembered -- THE TOOTH! It was still in her camp bag. We got it out, kissed the bag and put it immediately under her pillow. Surely we would wake to find a couple dollar bills under the pillow. :0

Well - can you believe it? The tooth fairy FORGOT US! ;) She just plum forgot the tooth was there and one sad mom had to "explain" to Chloe this morning that it must have been that she couldn't see it very well because it was in a rather larger plastic baggie.

Tonight before going to bed, I watched as Chloe taped the tooth in the baggie to the top of her bed post. "She's SURE to see it tonight!" I heard her say, getting tucked in for the night!

Nice going TOOTH FAIRY! Hopefully she WON'T forget tonight! A little girl is patiently waiting...

Thursday, July 26, 2007

When God Goes Silent!

I don't know how many other people struggle with this same thing, but I know I have had a hard time lately always hearing from God. I know in my heart that there are many reasons I don't always hear what God is telling me. For instance.. all the noise in our lives keeps us to hearing from God... the media, the busyness, the static, the gadgets, the music.. all of the demands of our hectic lives. And then there are some times when we just don't listen. Have you ever done this? Asked God repeatedly to "Show you a sign" or "Give you an answer" to a situation and you just don't seem to get a clear answer? I have always told God that I'm not very good with discernment. I mean, it's just not one of my God-given gifts. So I ask for a big, bold, blinking sign. You know - the big OPEN signs that are neon pink and flashing? THAT'S what I need, God! And yet sometimes, I believe He's prepared to answer, yet I won't KEEP QUIET or BE STILL long enough to let Him do the talking and truly listen.

So - I've been thinking a lot about this lately and read something yesterday that really hit home for me. It was this:

"It is possible that when God goes silent... it's because He's up to something!"

This illustration was given in a sermon that I was watching the other day online...

You have a two-year-old who is always breaking things around the house. He spends most every day running through the house screaming at the top of his lungs and breaking things whenever and wherever he can. But do you ever notice - it's when your two-year-old is "silent" that you actually have reason to be alarmed that it's because he's "up to something".

We need to think about this the next time God goes silent in our lives... just maybe it's because He's "up to something"... Get ready!

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Believe Me Now

So, I was at lunch today and decided to eat in my car. Needed time to sit and think and talk to God. Can I just say that God AMAZES ME! Every day - He amazes me! As I was praying and thinking over some things going on in my life right now, this song came on the radio and I was, once again, overtaken and simply amazed by His love...

I watch you looking out across the raging water
So sure your only hope lies on the other side
You hear the enemy that's closing in around you
And I know that you don't have the strength to fight
But do you have the faith to stand and...

Believe Me now
Believe Me here
Remember all the times
I've told you loud and clear
I am with you and I am for you
So believe Me now
Believe Me now

I am the One who waved my hand and split the ocean
I am the One who spoke the words and raised the dead
And I've loved you long before I set the world in motion
I know all the fears you're feeling now
But do you remember who I am? Do you..

Believe Me now
Believe Me here
Remember all the times I've told you loud and clear
I am with you
And I am for you
So believe Me now
Believe it's true

I never have, I never will abandon you
And the God that I have always been I will forever be
So believe Me now
I am the God who never wastes a single hurt that you endure
My words are true, and all My promises are sure

So believe Me now
Oh, believe Me now

Saturday, July 21, 2007

iPhone

My husband's new phone arrived today!! Let me just say - I am SO JEALOUS! This thing is awesome! I told him I was so jealous that he got one that I didn't even want to see what it could do. I lied. He's shown me all kinds of neat things. It's one COOL gadget! Now I want one!

Breaking Free: Cravings

So - this guy spoke during our worship experience last week and he rocked the house. He usually does. :) We are currently in a series entitled, Breaking Free, and he spoke on Cravings. It was really interesting to think about what ARE the things we crave and why? For some people it may be that their craving attention, for others, maybe material things and for some of us (me included), it could be more simple things - like coca cola.

Anyway - it got me thinking about all the things I crave. Here is the shortened down version of my longer list of cravings...

Chocolate
Coke (NOT diet, the fully-leaded stuff!)
Acceptance
Kitchen Gadgets (LOVE stores like IKEA, can't stay away!)
More hours in the day!
Grace
Ice Cream (Spotted Cow anyone?)
More time alone with God

Okay, there they are... just some of my personal cravings in no particular order.

What do you crave?

Thursday, July 19, 2007

DNA Test

So, I took this test the other day and found out what my Personal DNA is.. I am an Advocating Visionary. If you have some time - take this test! It's a little lengthy, I've gotta warn ya, but it's fun. The results were pretty right on for me, I think!

Day Off!

Gotta love a day off in the middle of the week! Really breaks up the week. :)

Yesterday, I spent the day with my wonderful mom! We took a day off "just because"... mainly just because we needed some time together. Although she lives right here in my same hometown, we don't see each other as often as we should. Life gets busy and before you know it, weeks have passed and I realize I haven't seen her. Sure - we talk all the time and email back and forth a lot, but it was really nice to be able to connect with her and spend some good, quality time with her.

Our day began with a trip to IKEA. This place is awesome. I bought some things I am sure I didn't need - but wanted. :) Mom had never been there, so it was nice to see her experience IKEA for the first time. Then we headed to Ann Arbor for lunch at this place. Since my last visit here with Trevor back in May, it has now become my new favorite restaurant!!! YUM-O! Let me just tell you - if you plan to eat lunch there, don't plan dinner that night! I was still full at 7 p.m.! Definitely do the salad bar, too. It's SO worth it! The only down side to our visit here was that it was Ann Arbor's Art Fair - so traffic was pretty bad.

After lunch, we headed to Whole Foods. Love this place! But can I just say right now that I literally spent a small fortune on Michigan Sweet Cherries. $3.99 a pound! Now - they were the BEST cherries I have ever eaten - but I was in shock when it was the only thing in my cart and my total came to $10.93!! YIKES! My family thanked me when I got home, though, and we spent some time before bed relishing in their sweet goodness! :)

After Whole Foods Market, we visited Bed, Bath and Beyond. Please tell me how you can be a big shopper like my mom and have NEVER visited this glorious store before??? Another first for mom and again, spent money on things I am sure I didn't need. :0

What a great day! I so enjoyed having the opportunity to be with my mom and I'm ready for another day off like this again! :) Where are those darn Vacation Request Forms anyway...