Hospitality Journal

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I'm not 100% sure where I got this idea... I thought maybe from Sandy, over at Reluctant Entertainer... but I couldn't seem to locate the post to link to it.  So, I apologize in advance that I'm not giving adequate credit - to where (and whomever) credit is due.  But, I'm pretty sure it's her.

If you've ever seen anything like this before - let me know.

***

I decided it was high-time that I started keeping better track of what I've served, food wise, and to whom - so that when we have guests over (repeatedly) we're not necessarily serving them the same thing over and over.

I found myself a pretty cheapo notebook.  And made my own 'insert', in which you can see that is says Hospitality Journal ~ 2011- ?.

Inside, I simply list:

~ Who was here for a meal
~ What date (including if it was lunch or dinner or a play date or a blessing meal taken to them or what-have-you.)
~ What food & beverage was served
~ Anything else I found out - if the guests had/have any food allergies or aversions that I didn't know
~ Any suggestions, preferences or changes I would make about the recipes, regarding what I had served...

You get the idea.

My husband has told me that I had better start looking for another notebook - this one is going to fill up fast.  I love that he loves having friends over to our home as much as I do.  It sure helps to be on the same page - in the aspect of hospitality.

***

It's been on my heart to practice, practice, practice - hospitality.  And, you know, it's easy if you always have *new faces* come into your home - you can make a standard meal and no one would know if the guests before them were served the same meal.  But, what happens when you have dear, dear friends in your home on a repeated basis - due to reasons left unsaid?  

I knew, I needed help to keep track of things a bit better.

Now.  Does that mean I never repeat dishes?  No.  When I know that a particular dish is a keeper (due to what I've been told :)) -  then for sure, I'll repeat something here and there... letting my friends know I care enough to make what they like... just because. :)

This is where (again) the Hospitality Journal comes in real handy.

Happy entertaining!

Well... the sun sure has been good for the rhubarb!

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I really am not sure that this is the correct title leadway into a post that is to include two *new-for-me*, delicious rhubarb recipes, but everytime I see or think rhubarb I recall this hilarious attempt, by my dear friend Amiee, in effort to change the subject of any given topic - should the conversation go awry. 

It was her way - and it usually worked.

I do want to stay on track here, though and share these new recipes with you, today.  The first is...

~ Rhubarb Cream Delight Dessert ~

Crust:
1 cup flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter

Rhubarb Layer:
3 cups fresh rhubarb, cut in 1/2" pieces
1/2 cup sugar
1 Tbsp. flour

Cream Layer:
12 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs

Topping:
8 oz. dairy sour cream
2 Tbsp. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

For crust, mix flour sugar and butter; pat into 10" pie plate.  Set aside.  For rhubarb layer, combine rhubarb, sugar, and flour; toss lightly and pour into crust.  Bake at 375* for about 15 minutes.  Meanwhile, prepare cream layer by beating together cream cheese and sugar until fluffy.  Beat in eggs one at a time, then pour over hot rhubarb layer.  Bake at 350* for about 30 minutes or until almost set.  Combine topping ingredients; spread over hot layers.  Chill.
Yield: 12-16 servings.

** Delicious combination of cheesecake and tart rhubarb.  If you're fond of both of these, it's a wonderful, wonderful dessert.
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The second recipe is these here muffins.

I found this recipe looking for something - coffee cake like or quick bread... and I'm so glad I found this recipe. It's easy, fast and delicious.

~ Rhubarb Muffins~

2 1/2 cup flour
1 1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 egg, beaten
1 cup buttermilk or sour milk
2/3 cup oil
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cups diced fresh rhubarb

Topping:
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 Tbsp. butter, melted
2 tsp. cinnamon

Combine all dry ingredients and mix.  Add all the rest.  Put topping on.  Bake at 375* for 16-18 minutes.
Yield: 2 dozen muffins.

** They're easy to freeze.  Hope you enjoy!

Our Sacrifices of Praise

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"... in view of God's mercy, offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship."   ~ Romans 12:1

"Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise - the fruit of lips that confess his name.  And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased."   ~ Hebrews 13:15-16

***
These verses have really stuck out to me - over this past weekend. 

The challenge being to live my life, wholly, as a living sacrifice; giving him continual praise.  It's hard to do - sometimes, isn't it?  We can't do it - without the mercies of God in view.

In light of his mercies ... I continue to count the thanks towards One Thousand Gifts.

#252. good books to read

#253. the smell of lavender

#254. the blossom of lavender, handed lovingly to me, by my daughter

#255. the twinkle in her eye that follows

#256. the pleas for band-aids  - the batting of the eyes and the folding of the hands - "pretty please!"

#257. little ones singing their hearts out ... "I lift it up to you, Lord.  I sing alle-lu-jah"

#258. two *new* delicious rhubarb recipes (which I'll share later this week - maybe tomorrow)

#259. "hit-the-spot" Chinese dinner date night... taking the kiddo's along and them doing so well.

#260. another SALE - in my etsy shop

#261. a great week (last week) at VBS - the children enjoyed themselves so much. 

#262. the growing manners and courtesies coming out of my four year old son.  It's taking my breath away... He's been opening up doors, shaking hands with adults to say thank you... replying with the "yes, sir" and "yes, ma' m"... saying "thanks" - without being prodded.. etc.   I am so grateful.

#263. good report for my (baby) doctor's appointment - I had some growing concerns and all is well... now just to hang in there.

#264. grandma's who care

#265. brother-in-law's who share - car related tools and recommendations

#266. the commorodity of friends and family

#267. green tomatoes hanging on the vine  ((I told Caleb he couldn't pick them until they turned red.  He thought maybe he would just sit there and wait...))

#268. teaching moments throughout the day

#269. deep soul-smiles of gratitude for my spouse...

#270. his time well spent - intentionally being a dad!!!  Not just a good dad....but a great dad.

Old Time Sunday Hymn Sing | Open the Wells of Salvation

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~

~ Open the Wells of Salvation ~

Rev. Elisha A. Hoffman / Charles Edward Pollack

Lord, I am fondly earnestly longing

Into thy holy likeness to grow;

Thirsting for more and deeper communion,

Yearning thy love more fully to know.

Refrain

Open the wells of grace and salvation,

Pour the rich streams deep into my heart;

Cleanse and refine my thought and affection,

Seal me and make me pure as thou art.

Dead to the world would I be, O Father!

Dead unto sin, alive unto thee;

Crucify all the earthly within me,

Emptied of sin and self may I be.

I would be thine, and serve thee forever,

Filled with thy spirit, lost in thy love;

Come to my heart, Lord, come with anointing,

Showers of grace send down from above.

****I choose this song today... because of a sermon series that our church is currently doing.

The series is called "Hungering for God". 

Today's sermon was on our devotion to God. 

We learned much, from the first two verses of Romans chapter 12.

If you slowly read through the lyrics of this old hymn -you can sense the heart cry of the author who carefully penned the words, as though he were praying... hungering more for God.

This is my prayer, too, this week.

Silently on Saturday | Snapdragons

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Dear, sweet friends that have come back to visit, from last year's "introduction" to my flowerbed.

I had no idea Snapdragons return. 

What a pleasant surprise!

Friday's Finds | star gazin'

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{Welcome to Friday's Finds! For those of you who are new to this blog and/or just poppin' in - Hello! and welcome.

On Friday's I like to try and feature "a find" of no particular value or sentiment, no reason or rhyme and yet, exactly for all of those reasons I just mentioned. You'll never guess what I'm going to find, next.}


A 25 cent find at the thrift store...

What a welcome distraction to their entertainment while mommy perused the aisles of the local thrift store, all in hopes of finding that perfect treasure.  You know what I mean??

These star gazin', cool little dudes hardly go anywhere without wearing their *new* shades. That is unless the lenses pop out and we can't find them...anywhere.

Do you know how many times one would go missing and we gave it up for lost... only to discover it in the oddest of places while outdoors or wherever? 

It's amazing what a little prayer can do.  Seriously. 

Happy Friday to you!!

PS: 

Tonight is our last night of VBS.  Oh what a sad day/evening this is going to be... but I got some sewing projects (semi) caught up on.  Yay!!

No calf born yet, this week... uhmmm.

I need to bake something with rhubarb today...or tomorrow.  I have a bunch of it in my fridge that I keep forgetting about.

It's a rainy day, here today - and COOLER - I love it.  Thank you, Lord!

he can't remember

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As we sat down to dinner and just before taking hands to pray... how could we pray?... and we were soon to be on our way to Vacation Bible School?  Oh, the irony...

I crumbled into a mess of tears.  Again.

I had been such a grouchy mama bear all afternoon and I was radically letting it show. My poor children.  With my head in my hands I wept, and prayed, and received.

God's grace.  Afresh!

I could feel it - although my spirit was still in anguish and I felt the feelings of angst over my sin... even greater was the outpouring of patience, forgiveness and love of my Saviour.

It was literally like a wave washing over me.  Wave upon wave.  Grace upon grace.  A flood.

We took hands - the children and I - and, they knowing something was very wrong with mommy... Caleb sweetly says (with tears in eyes, too): "Mom, it's okay!".

And, I knew it was.

***

I never fully realized, until having children,  how deep the level of pride can be in someones heart.  Why is that?

Apologizing and asking for (specific) forgiveness is HARD to do... when just ten minutes before I was "lashing out" at them (reacting vs. responding?) - for who knows why... and truthfully now, I can't even remember. 

I love knowing that fact about my Heavenly Father, as well.

He can't remember (he chooses not to remember), our sins - after forgiveness has been extended towards us.

We all slept good - last night.

((Read Psalm 103:8-14, particularly vs. 12. and Isaiah 43:25 - for further encouragement.))

behind the scenes and First Day of Summer! sale announcement

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I haven't given any updates as to what's been happening behind the scenes around here - regarding Bags by Bevy - for a long time.  Partly due to the fact that I couldn't post photos for awhile and partly due to gifts given - that if I would've shown them, the gifts might have been revealed before it was time.

So here is what I've been up to... lately.

"Black Beauty" - Overnight Bag

Homespun Baby! Shoes

(bag and 2 pair)

Sold to Rachel A.

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"Blushing Zebra" - Medium/Large

Sold to Rachel G.

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 SOMETHING NEW!!!

Linen Brooches - with center vintage button

(all given as gifts)

Look for this *NEW* item in my Etsy Shop - $8.00each

SOLD OUT!!!!!!!!!

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"Remember Me" ~ Large Bag

bag & 1 pair

Homespun Baby! Shoes

gift given to Jen F.

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"Sand & Sage" - small bag

RESERVED for Mary Jeanne L.

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"Nestled" 

 Large Bag (over the shoulder)

Sold to Susie C.

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Homespun Baby! Shoes

2 pair

Sold to Rachel A.

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Homespun Baby! Shoes

gift given to "be announced"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Shew!!  That's pretty much where I've been.  I didn't realize there was so much to show you.

Again, I'm currently still working on a few special orders that need to be in by August before my baby comes.  Apologizing that there isn't much to show for in my etsy shop. 

One of these days there will be some more choices.

Speaking of.

Since today is the First Day of Summer...let's kick it off with a Sale!

** The two bags listed in my etsy shop are now on SALE for $25.00/each.  Regularly priced at $35.00 **

One thing that is nice - is that while the Little's are attending VBS this week.  Each evening presents a chance for me to sew, in one of the "vacant" rooms there at the school/church.

I am "sew" hoping to catch up... ;)

My dad was a good man...

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I fully realize Father's Day was yesterday and I'm a day behind.  But, that's okay.  We'll talk about it today.

"A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children". ~ Proverbs 13:22   In the margin of my Bible I have circled the words "an inheritance" and have written words (for me to relate to) - a godly heritage, heavenly treasures.  These are what a good man leaves behind.

I was thinking about Father's Day this year as one that, for me, can be sad - because, my dad is no longer here.  It has now been 15 years since my dad has passed on to glory.  But it's more likely a day that is simply mixed of emotion.   He's HOME-FREE!  and I'll get to see him again, someday soon...Lord Willing.

I know I'm not alone in these feelings. 

My husband can identify.  His "dad-story" is not the same as mine - growing up.  Scott's dad has passed on, as well, and there are so many unanswered questions in "his story".  Yet, the Lord gave Scott a "few good years" with his dad - just before he died.  A peace was left behind that we believe Scott's father has passed on to his heavenly home.

Neither of us would say "we had the perfect dad".  We both know what a good dad is and what a good dad isn't.  We miss them - dearly.  They were/are loved.  But, they're gone and we move on...with Scott being the best dad he (now) can possibly be. 

And, let me tell you. 

He is Wonderful!!!!!!!

I found this following quote, while reading my devotional this morning.  I could really appreciate it - so I thought I would share it with you.

Written by Barbara Johnson - We come out of deep grief as different persons than we were before.  We can come out stronger, kinder, and more understanding of the problems of others, or we can come out bitter and self-pitying, uninterested of others' problems because we have so many of our own.

Maybe your dad was a good man.  Maybe not.  But, in all of our experience(s) may the day have been one of gratitude for the person(s) we are and who we are becoming, because of the influence from one to another.

****
Continuing with the thanks-counting... of One Thousand Gifts.
#233. hallelujah!!!! - the ant "rant" is over.

# 234. the (last) week of cooler temperatures - may it stay - just for me.  PLEASE!!!

#235. wonderful father's day weekend

#236. starting tonight... a week long, VBS (Vacation Bible School) starting up at the church I grew up in - my kids are going to love it.

#237. Sister's who take my kids out to lunch and to the park.  Gotta love them.

#238. running through the sprinkler

#239. lollipops of grape and bubblegum

#240. tall glasses of sweet lemonade - even when they get spilled

#241. friends to share coffee cake with - while out on the front porch

#242. a godly heritage, heavenly treasures

#243. good (and some-not-so-good) dad memories

#244. who I am, because of my dad

#245. fitful nights of sleep - convincing me; preparing me for this new little one's arrival

#246. when other woman can relate to swelling and the "braxton hicks".... and many weeks (10 wks., to be exact) to go.

#247. thrilled excitement from Aubrey, in news of going to the park - her dancing and twirling

#248. fireflies

#249. summer evenings - fast approaching

#250. {random?} encouragement on Sunday morning (completely blessing my socks off), from a friend who I believe God used to speak specifically something of what I needed to hear.

#251. early morning phone calls... brother to brother... Happy Father's Day!

 

we've got a job to do

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Our farmer landlord -  uses his gator pretty regularly for farm chores.  But this is his favorite "chore" - taking the kiddo's for a ride... it only happens once in awhile.  

For some reason, here, the kiddo's don't look so sure... usually, they're the ones begging for more.

It's usually daddy who runs the rides on the gator - "just on Saturday"!

****

On other farm news.

Mr A. has left, this morning, for a week long vacation. 

He has asked me/us to keep an eye on the cow - with the white face.

She is due to calve any day...and for whatever reason, is taking her good ole time.

We're to call Mr. So & So... if we see "any issues".

I sure hope it ain't me helping to deliver this calf.

****

Mr. A has also asked Caleb to be his paperboy for the week.  We're to collect the morning paper off the front lawn and take it a designated spot in the barn, for when he comes back.

Caleb is, needless to say, very excited about his first "real job" - as a paperboy.  That will give him something to look forward to, every morning this coming week.

"Come on, Caleb.  We've got a job to do!"

Happy weekend to all.  We've got another busy one - ahead.

Friday's Finds | My mom is cute like this...

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{Welcome to Friday's Finds! For those of you who are new to this blog and/or just poppin' in - Hello! and welcome.

On Friday's I like to try and feature "a find" of no particular value or sentiment, no reason or rhyme and yet, exactly for all of those reasons I just mentioned. You'll never guess what I'm going to find, next.}


Today's find... shows you my first souvenir that I ever bought.  I was in the first grade.  My class was on it's year end school trip and my parents actually gave me some spending money.  A rarity in our family.

The funny thing is.  I don't even like figurines.  At least now I don't and I don't think I did then either.  But... I can faintly remember the pressure of "needing" to buy something - because I had spending money that needed to be spent.  You know?

Quickly picking this little girl out of the plethera of options there in that little gift shop of Roadside America...I can remember it "just sitting around", in my room, with no real sentimental value attached.

That was eons ago.

Enter my son's 4th birthday.

By the way.  My mom is cute like this. 

 Here is the rest of the story...

My son's birthday was the end of May.  My mom - the frugal woman that she is (and I bet, it's where I get it from - no kidding.) - gave Caleb a couple of different age appropriate gifts.  But this wrapped up item in a papertowel intrigued me more than it did Caleb.  I don't know if he even looked at it... to be honest.

I asked her.  "Mom, where did you get this?"  She had no idea... she didn't remember where it came from.  Here, she had been cleaning out her basement one day - discovered it and thought Caleb would like it. 

I told you - she is cute like this.

I explained to her how it came about and the whole story of it being my first souvenir.   She laughed...

Funny... how things come around full circle.  At least, she kept it in the same family...

Now.  What do I do with it?  Nothing, I suppose, except to keep it for mere sentimental-memory's sake... and to note that I have learned the gift of regifting very well... and rather honestly, I might add. 

Lol, I love it!

Thanks for coming by for today's Friday's Finds!!

Flowers are words which even a baby may understand. ~ Bishop Coxe

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The buttercup catches the

sun in it's chalice. 

 ~ James Russell Lowell  (1819- 1891)

Back when the meadow was full and overflowing of buttercups... the little ones would often kneel by the fence row and pick em by the handfuls.

Me: Here, let's see, do you like butter?  holding the yellow cups close under their little chins, to see...

(noting the sunny yellow reflection left behind)

I would say -  Yep, you sure do!

Kids:  giggling (running away with smiles, just as golden)

 ***

Here is just one of the many bouquets, from Aubrey's hand...

***

Isn't it neat - how even the littlest of souls (our babies), understand what it is that can bring on the greatest heart-patters of a gift so simple and yet so eloquent?

Garnish with fresh berries if desired. Seriously??

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locally grown strawberries

The only thing I could think to make with these luscious berries was cheesecake.

((I suppose it was a legit hankering.))

Since my birthday was right around the corner... that's exactly what I did.

***

It was 10:00 pm and Scott leans over my shoulder and asks, "Whatever are you doing?"

I turned right around, looking right at him with the strangest of faces...I'm sure- because he laughed... and I replied, with the most serious of voices... I'm sure - all because I could... and he laughed again...

"I'm making my birthday cake".

***

~ Philadelphia Vanilla Mousse Cheesecake ~

(credits to Kraft Foods)

40 vanilla wafers, crushed (about 1 1/2 cups)

3 Tbsp. butter, melted

4 pkgs. (8 oz. each) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened, divided

1 cup sugar, divided

1 Tbsp. plus 1 tsp. vanilla, divided

3 eggs

8 oz. whipped topping, thawed

Heat oven to 325*.  Mix wafer crumbs and butter and press into bottom of 9" spring form pan.

Beat 3 pkgs. cream cheese, 3/4 cup sugar and 1 Tbsp. vanilla with mixer until well blended.  Add eggs one at a time, mixing at low speed after each just until blended.  Pour over crust.

Bake 50-55 minutes or until center is almost set.  Run knife around rim of pan to loosen cake; cool completely in pan.

Beat remaining (1 pkg.) cream cheese, (1/4 cup) sugar and (1 tsp.) vanilla with mixer in large bowl until well blended.  Whisk in whipped topping and spread over cooled cheesecake.  Refrigerate for 4 hours.  Remove rim of pan before serving cheesecake.

Garnish with fresh berries if desired.

Seriously??

***

Do you know what Scott and I did?

Well, first off we thought we were going to have company to share this with - when we first cut into it.  However, that fell through at the last minute... which was totally understandable.  Our dear friends...she's also in the family way... and wasn't feeling well.

Anyway.  So, Scott and I would put the kids to bed. 

Dish us out some of this berry-rich-goodness-sin-on-a-plate... and go out onto the front porch and have us a date night.  We did this for several nights in a row. 

I told him, we're going to start looking like this cheesecake if we don't watch it.

By the time I got around to taking a great photo of this stuff decadence... the strawberries were all gone and so I've opted for blueberries to present to you this next-to-last piece of mouth-watering dessert.

Needless to say - just as berrylicious.

Enjoy!!

WARNING : The content of this post is by no means intended to scare, frighten or be insensitive. Read at your own risk. (smile!)

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Okay.

I'll be honest.

I'm not one to show too much of my prego tummy - in picture format. But, here it is.

 And see, you still didn't get much.  This was a self-attempted photo that doesn't show too much. 

it's enough, to get the gist.

  Fact is... a lot of folks may not even have known I was pregnant unless I had let them know verbally.  

That is... until recently.  I'm pretty sure "I've popped"... these past couple of weeks.

I've only had three pregnancies... and I'll agree, they are all different.  They've all given me a "run for my money" - in some form or fashion. 

* serious heartburn *

*  serious toothache followed by a root canal - by surprise! *

* phlebitis *

* bad allergies - which I couldn't take anything for *

* the usual, throwing up when/after I brush my teeth *

* motion sickness - while driving *

* peeing my pants - at all the wrong times (as if any time is pleasant) *

* uncomfortable sleeping *

* bad gas or constipation *

* carpel tunnel in my hands *

* loud, ferocious snoring - according to my hubby *

* more stretch marks than I currently have *

* back aches and pains *

* slight swollen hands and ankles (yeah, my ring you see, on the photo - is no longer on finger, due to this) *

* occasional Braxton Hicks *

* TUMS are my friend *

((all of these have happened during one or with at least one of my pregnancies))

 To put it bluntly... I don't know that I love being pregnant all that much. 

I just don't like what it does to me.

I can't say that I've had overly serious cravings for certain foods or whatever.  Meaning... I have never asked my hubby to run and get me a huge, whoppin' cheesesteak or some fancy chinese food at 10pm with a side of pickles and ice cream.

Although, I will say I have had my hankerings...

But with Caleb - it was fruit and cereal and NO COFFEE!

With Aubrey - I had to have hot and spicy foods - Little or No ICE CREAM!

With this one...its a combination of all of the above - in some way or another.

You know.

One (or two) of the inevitabilities in my pregnancies is this...

I find myself putting things in the wrong places - like the toaster into the refrigerator or

If I'm holding something, I'm liable to drop it.  Which means, I have to bend over and pick it back up.  BTW:  It's really hard to bend over these days.

I've been starting to delegate.  Caleb, can you pick that up for me?  Aubrey?  Anyone?

Oh... and I just wanted you to know.  I NORMALLY never, ever snore.  Seriously.  It's ususally all peaceful sleep and slumber - and on my tummy, at that. 

 But, not these days...

***

So.  Back to this thought of not many people knowing or realizing that I'm 29+ weeks pregnant.

I'm not sure if I should take that as a compliment or not.

Like I said - this post was by no means intended to frighten, scare or be insensitive to anyone regarding pregnancy.  And, I should assure and continue to assure myself - that this is the easy part.

It's once the baby is born and on into the teen years that makes parenting, in general, the tough part. ;)

I will say, this.

I do love knowing that there is a new little life inside of me

- a gift from God -

a blessing of our marriage union.

This child is being knited wonderfully and carefully by our loving Creator.

Every day is another miracle.  (Psalm 139:13-16)

***

Time to buckle down and start truly nesting...we're getting ready to meet this little one in just a few more weeks.

high fives and high hopes

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Sometimes we need to be reminded of the great potential we possess.  We need someone to point out our likeness to the One who created us, to see God's image in us.  Just one little word of encouragement can make all the difference. ~ Barbara Johnson

Continuing, to count, the One Thousand Gifts...

#211. the many, many birthday well-wishes

#212. visiting with aunts - one, whose birthday we share

#213. travelling mercies

#214. memories shared

#215. hugs, kisses and "mom, I've missed you" sayings... repeatedly

#216. conversations that challenge the emotions

#217. picnics

#218. good times - more memories - great food and fellowship

#219. crayons all over the floor

#220. imaginations run wild

#221. "mom! I need you..."

#222. soft piano music

#223. cool breezes - open windows

#224. more birthday gifts - surprises - left in the door, for me to find, when I got home

#225. my sisters; Lorene, Gladys, Rachel, Juline and Martha

#226. laughter, with Rachelle (on our recent, fun shopping trip)

#227. "you're not alone" moments

#228. shared encouragement - over and over and over

#229. high fives and high hopes - serious potty training, in the works

#230. accolades from my husband's co-workers - who tell me about the "patient, knowledgeable, and good man" that he is; the one I know to be (what seems like) a "difference maker", at work, and in his humility... he says "I don't know about that".

#231. peace - in decisions made

#232. A (growing) Hunger for HIM

****

Do you have high hopes and been given high fives - recently?  Be encouraged... this is your "not alone" moment.

"I'm eager to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours.  In this way, each of us will be a blessing to the other."  ~ Romans 1:12 (NLT)

making birthday memories

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One...two....three...four (I remember this one)... five....six... seven... eight (this one, too)...nine...ten...
thirteen (my favorite birthday)...fourteen... sixteen (yeehaw! here I come)... eighteen...twenty...

twenty-three (huge changes in my life - the year my dad died)...

twenty-five.... twenty-nine (yikes!)...I couldn't turn thirty, not yet....(I did and it was the most traumatic one for me.)

thirty-two (finally, married)...thirty-four (with child)... thirty-six (with children)....

thirty-seven (fun day/weekend) and holding.... until tomorrow.

I'll be THIRTY-EIGHT!!

Happy Birthday, to me.

Oh, how the years go by?   But where to?  Seriously.

****

I don't know what I think about this. Another birthday.  It's pretty much looking to just be another day - for me.  I do have some fun stuff planned with my mom and kiddo's, tomorrow - in fact, I was born on my Aunt Janice's 30th birthday and my mom and her three sister's are planning to have a Sister's Day - so that will be fun, hanging out with aunts and (a few of my) cousins.  Later, Scott and I (and kids) will probably go out to dinner with my Mother-in-law.

And then, on Saturday, I'll be shopping, to Lancaster, all day, with another girlfriend of mine. ;)  Scott is keeping the little ones home with him for the day. 

Sunday, another busy day with a work picnic for Scott, after church.

So, in case you don't hear from me, much over the weekend,  it's because I'll be off elsewhere, making memories of my thirty-eighth. 

If I don't die of a heat and high humidity stroke first.

Just thought I would let you know. ;)

Dreams

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I snuggle closer, to my sleeping husband, and breathe...a deep sigh of relief.

Shew! Thankfully, it was just a dream.  A dream that had gone from bad to worse. 

Isn't this the way it goes - more often then not- the ones in our sleep?  They are either really bad, extremely interesting or completely an all-out-wacko sort of dream - leaving you very unsettled.  Very rarely are they ~ SWEET, which  is what we often wish each other before falling off to sleep, don't we? 

Sweet dreams!

What about the day-dreams?  The "dreams" we dream for our future(s) and the ones for our kids? 

While living "the dream"....Do you ever wish you could just "wake up" and it would all be over, because the said dream wasn't turning out as sweetly as hoped?

I have had those moments.

And, then. I realize...

Wait. I'm not the one who is writing the dream-story, here.  God is.  I am only the one who lives it or (re)tells it. 

By no means, am I an expert on dreams.  Dream interpretation.  Dreamy ideas.  Or the Whys and Wherefore's of dreams.  But, I do know that sometimes dreams have meanings.  They're often meant to tell us something.  They might even be meant to get our attention, in some way or another. 

The question is, are we listening? 

If we're in the middle of that 'life-sized-not-so-sweet-nightmarish-dream", and God is Sovereign, which we know he is, because his Word tells us so, then we can rest at ease, knowing He is there to comfort us and hold us through it all. 

****

Psalm 121

My help comes from the Lord...

{He is} the Maker of heaven and earth.

He will not let your foot slip - he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel with neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you -  the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm -  he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

food for thought

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Life is made up not of great sacrifices or duties, but of little things, in which smiles and kindnesses and small obligations, given habitually, are what win and preserve the heart and secure comfort. 
~ Sir H. Davy


Share your life, and find the finest joy man can know.  Do not be stingy with your heart.  Get out of your self into the lives of others, and new life will flow into you - share and share alike. 
~ Joseph Fort Newton


The smallest acts of kindness are worth more then the grandest intention.
~ Unknown

Each {woman} should give what {she} has decided  in {her} heart to give, not relucantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.  ~ 2 Corinthians 9:7

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest, if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.  ~ Galations 6:9-10

****

I'm so thankful...

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One. To be back on line again. 

In case you've been scratching your head in wonderment as to where Bevy has been...it's because our computer was down again - voluntarily - since late Thursday night.  My husband was working on it.  It basically got blown away and rebuilt - for the second time.  However, currently I'm still unable to post any new pics at this point.  Hopefully that will change, soon.  Lord willing. 

Secondly.  I am so thankful for your faithful readership and comments in my absence.  For new blogging buddies and old ones - who check in and make sure that all is well.  I appreciate that.  It makes me feel loved and supported.  I felt missed.  I have been enjoying reading and catching up with you all, too.

I will also say this... and, I think you'll understand.  It was good for me to take that unexpected blogging break too, for another couple of days.  It was a time to just "be". 

We've had another busy weekend - as well. 

Friday - I spent the day, outdoors in the absolute beautiful weather, with the kiddo's, buying and planting flowers and a couple of vegetable plants, to plant in our flowerbeds.  I know.  I feel so behind in this department.  But, all is well...now.
Doing this was rather interesting... in my condition. ;)  I was exhausted, as were the kiddo's. Both of them had a blast, though, watering the plants with their sprinkling cans (I'm afraid, the same ones over and over...it's a wonder they didn't drown them).

On Saturday morning.  Pretty early. I was privileged to lead out and bring an introduction, to the ladies of our Care group, on the book we chose to do as our book study - One Thousand Gifts.  We also shared a lovely breakfast together... it was just simply wonderful to get out and do that.  After I got home...later...  Scott and the kids and I did a small (local) grocery shop together.  And - we even treated ourselves to dinner at a local sub and pizza shop. 

Sunday.  What a wonderful day!  All around.
We have friends, at church, a young family of five, who are planning to literally uproot their lives here in the States and permanently relocate to Argentina (Tony's homeland)...in efforts to make a difference with family and friends of Tony's - towards reaching them for the gospel.  Yesterday, they hosted a fundraiser luncheon/meal and served over 300 folks - an authentic Argentinean meal.  It was delish.  You can read more of Chris and Tony's testimony HERE.

Caleb and Aubrey had so much fun - playing with the other children, from church - outdoors and whatnot.  They were plum pooped out - at the end of the day.

Later, my mom came over in the evening - to talk - budgets and finances. ;)

Sprinkled throughout the weekend...was... a chance for some "sewing" meaning I was able to cut out about three more pair of Homespun Baby! Shoes for a couple of orders placed; studying (for Scott) and the majority of time fixing the computer; baking; laundry; catching up on a couple of phone calls; sitting on the front porch for an ice cream date night, with my man ... talking about our future, late at night, etc.

Today - is just another one of those beautiful days. I am so thankful.  Caleb and Aubrey are playing together so nicely, today.  The washline is full again...dishes are piling up and I can hardly keep myself indoors.

Happy Monday to you all!


(Counting everything highlighted, listing #171 - #210)

Which would you rather do... spend or save?

.. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . ...

"No! - it's late. No stories tonight, it's time to go to bed. And besides, it's way past your bedtime". 

"Not right now, honey, it's time to make dinner before daddy gets home".  Actually, I probably say it more like this.  "Not now, (insert child's name).  I've got to get dinner started - we'll read the book another time".

TIME is a fine line, isn't it? 
Which would you rather do?  Spend time or Save time?

Recently, I was struck with the thought of spending time versus saving time - as it relates to interacting with our kids.  I am so guilty of pushing them off - just because it doesn't quite fit into the time-structured-regiment of the hour or the day.  Scott admits he is guilty of this, too. 
We're too concerned to keeping with the time on the clock... instead of allowing time spent enjoying moments our kids think they need deserve.

Granted there is a balance that needs to be in place.  And, I guess this is where wisdom needs to be asked for and applied to, in the given situation.

Do you ever think about this?

I know one of my son's current growing love-needs, right now, is Quality Time.  I hear it constantly:  "Will you sit/lie here with me?", "Will you watch (TV show/video) with me?", "I want to help...do dishes, water flowers, etc."

I mean, literally, as I'm tending to things around the house this morning I was being challenged by this very thing.

Sometimes I really should do whatever he's/they are asking, for... at that moment.  Other times... the kids need to learn mommy honestly can't stop and do this or that....at that precise moment.

Because, it's interesting how much I hear this recently.  I'll call out, "Come on Caleb!  It's time for dinner - right now".  He'll respond with, "In a minute. After I finish this... {whatever it is he's doing}."  - and then it feels like a mounting discipline issue because he isn't coming {immediately} when he's called. 
But, how many times has he actually heard the very same thing from us - his parents?


(read: I'm asking for wisdom and insight into this slight parenting issue/scenario.)

***
So, which would you rather do?  Spend time or Save time?  Which are you more likely to do?

I know one thing.  I need / we need to pray for continued wisdom and patience in this immediate area.