A Date With Isaac

I wish I would have had the camera in Ichiban for lunch. When the chef lit the volcano on fire, he had a squirting doll to put it out and squirted Isaac in the midst. It was hilarious! Isaac said "If he does that again, I'm ducking down!" He really enjoyed the entertainment there... and I enjoyed his company throughout the day. He is such a lovely boy.

Menu Planning

This week is going to be a busy one. Seems we have a lot on our plate!





Monday - we will have whatever I bring home from the Hospital. It's my Credentials Committee meeting night.





Tuesday - we will both eat on the go and on our own. He has a training session to attend in the evening after work. I have an evening Bible Study at church.





Wednesday - breakfast night





Thursday - either lasagna or taco twist (K's voting for taco twist)





Friday - left-over from Thursday. I have Girls Group from 5-630pm.





Whatta-week!!!!

Deal Or No Deal

I did some modest shopping this week and am pleased to have happened upon a few good deals. Because my pantry is plentiful, we could spend our budget on just sale-items this week, which is our goal overall. Ground meat and boneless pork loin were on sale this week. I browned the ground meat and froze it in smaller portions right away. I cut the pork loin into 3 roasts and 3 chops and froze them as 4 separate meals. I'm delighted to report that our freezer is getting stocked up.

Non-grocery sale items purchased with coupons totalled less than $12 this week: (Rite-Aid) 3-pak of K's favorite Irish Spring soap was 47 cents. 3 Speed stick deodorants were 40 cents each. Box of anti-viral Kleenex's was 48 cents. 2 Suave products (shampoo & conditioner) were 72 cents each. Aspirin was 99 cents each. I don't recall each and every item I purchased, but I had a coupon for everything.

The thing I like about Rite-aid is that their rebate program sends you a check each month that you can cash in for cold hard cash. The other drug stores offer savings that can only be spent in their store. I prefer the cash.

Favorite Shows

1. The Office
2. Everybody Loves Raymond
3. Two and a Half Men (not sure why)

What Is For Dinner?

I'm slightly ashamed to say that I have not made our weekly menu yet. Just now giving it some thought... And in no particular order...

1. Pizza (yes - that was tonight)

2. Left-overs - that's Tuesday

3. BBQ Pork

4. Chicken casserole

5. Breakfast night... probably pancakes

Snapshots of my weekend

• Took Handy-hubby grocery shopping with me last night. Used coupons and super-sales to get really good deals. Spent what I had saved on "can we get" requests. Note to self... better to go solo even if the company is superb. Got great deals on cereal again, Swiss Miss, tuna (for him), and a free gallon of milk!
• Prepping for guests that are to arrive tonight. Been cleaning house all day! (aside from running some errands) WOW - who knew we had so much laundry!!! Actually, I'm washing ALL our linens. I'm sure that is what's taking so long. Oh but who doesn't just LOVE the smell of fresh linens!
• Had extra house keys made at Walmart today.
• Got a new 4-stage filter system for the kitchen faucet. It makes the tap water pure enough to drink without noticing that it's not spring or well water.
• Time to get new bathroom rugs. Two of them all but disintigrated in the washing machine today. That's not good! Oh well... now I have an excuse to splurge on new ones.
• Got a fantastic deal on the scrubbing bubbles automatic shower cleaner at Rite Aid today. I've been wanting to try it. It was on sale, with rebate, plus coupon! Not sure if I like it yet. Had to take down our shower caddy to install it. It is rather loud when it's running, but I suppose it will only run for a few seconds each day anyway. Also got a free Fructis hair gel. Saweet!
• Handy-Hubby tripped over the vaccuum cleaner last night and fell down the steps. YES - the whole way! Thump thump thump thump splat! It was not pretty. He has a couple rug burns (even though he was wearing jeans) and some nasty bruises. Had to ice his knee good last night. Scared the bejeebers out of me! I'm sorry I left the vaccuum in the hallway.
• He changed the light bulb in the upstairs hallway today. Smart move Honey.
• Washed piles of dishes today. Swept the floors. Hung some curtains. Put away the last of the Christmas decor.
• I'm burning my "clean linen" Yankee Candle - Thank you Mom! LOVE IT!!!
• We have bad kitties! Really BAD kitties! They have broken into THREE containers of kitty-snacks in the last two days. Two of them didn't have much in them, but the third was brand new and they ate almost ALL of the snacks. I wonder if Crystal and Wizzy are feeling alright? I scolded them, but by the look in their eyes... they have no idea what they are in trouble for! UGH!!!
• Bought a new cat-proof plastic container for kitty-snacks. Dumped all remaining kitty-snacks into it and put away. Should probably wait a week to give them any more!
• I took a nap today. It was very refreshing.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

What's Cookin?

I worked at the farmer's market this weekend. I picked up a few things for the freezer. I didn't get to the store this weekend, and I haven't had time to peruse the ads yet. We don't actually "NEED" any groceries this week, but I will likely shop for really good sale items regardless. It's good to keep the pantry and freezer loaded. I really feel like we have shaved the grocery budget substantially in the past two months. A little time to carefully plan and some efforts to use coupons and sales is paying off!!!

So what's cookin' at the Vulhop Household this week?

1. Pulled Pork BBQ - already roasted and ready for a meal on Monday. We'll probably forgo the bread and just have it with mashed potatoes and a vegetable.
2. Roast All-day Chicken - with rice and vegetable.
3. Next-day Chicken dish - either soup or casserole.
4. Breakfast for dinner - either pancakes or bacon, eggs, & toast
5. Meatloaf with Baked mac' n cheese and vegetable
6. Left-overs

What Is For Dinner?

This is only my second week with "Menu Plan Monday" and I'm a day early posting because, well, my weeks starting and I need a plan! I went to the grocery today and found several deals, but did not use as many coupons as in more recent weeks. Frozen chicken tenders were almost half-price at Giant Eagle and Kraft BBQ sauce was $1.00 each, so I bought FOUR. I got a good deal on sour cream, paid less than $1.00 for a 16 oz. container. But what is on the menu this week??? Again, I don't assign days, just make sure I have a variety of choices for the week...

1) Ham & Cheese sandwiches with tomato soup. This is the meal that my Handy Hubby often volunteers to make for us.

2) Taco Twist

3) Boneless BBQ Pork Chop with mashed potatoes and veggies

4) Breakfast night (still haven't made the french toast casserole I've been thinking of)

5) Stir-fry Chicken and vegetables

Want to save a few bucks? What to establish order in your home? Join us in Menu Planning Mondays. You'll be surprised how good it makes you feel to have a plan!

Coffee and Tunes

If you are feeling lucky, head on over to Praise & Coffee and enter her monthly give-away contest for some good tunes and Starbucks coffee!

Toothpaste and Soap

Rite Aid is having some good sales on things we can always use... Tonight I picked up FOUR tubes of toothpaste (half Crest, half Colgate) and 6 bars of Irish Spring soap (K's favorite). The bill would normally have come to $16.54 but will sales and coupons I paid a grand total of $5.08. We saved $11.46!!!!! I'm so proud of myself.

Wendy... we have plenty of toothpaste for your visit! No need to pack any! HA!!!

Clean Heart Devotional - Week #5

Am I the only one that prays the same prayer all the time asking God to forgive me for the same mistakes... over and over and over and over??? I think not.

I'm a lazy soul. I am lazy when it comes to diet. I am lazy when it comes to exercise. I am lazy when it comes to budgeting and sometimes when it comes to planning, cooking, laundry, and general housework. I am lazy when it comes to keeping up with friends. Above all this, I am lazy when it comes to spiritual discipline. I am L-A-Z-Y!!!!

While I'd like to think that I am a hard-worker, the truth is that my laziness consumes me more often than not. Sure, I work every day. I do some physical labor sometimes. I even have a policy to work before I play. I've patted myself on the back for many a days work. The truth is that I do not work hard-enough at what is most important. What are my priorities? Is not spiritual health much more significant than the all-mighty paycheck?

I'm ashamed to say that there are days when I am too lazy to give the Lord my full attention. My prayers are at times scattered or wandering. Sometimes I read the Word, yet I'm too lazy to take the time to dig for understanding. Then I pray... "Forgive me Lord for being so lazy. Have mercy on me for I am weak...."

Blogger Contests

Don't miss out on all the chances to win FREE STUFF!!!! Rocks In My Dryer is hosting Bloggy Giveaways Carnival!!!! At last glance there were MORE THAN 400 and very close to 500 giveaways happening! There is some very cool stuff out there!!! I am tempted to become a giveaway host, yet I have not decided what plunder I could offer. Hmmm... we shall see.


Just a little plug for my pal... If for none other, at least enter my friend Lizzie's give-away!!!

Anyway... go win some stuff!!!!

Menu Planning

I plan for five meals, but I do not assign a day to any of them.

1) Spaghetti with meat sauce

2) Ham and potatoes

3) Broccoli Cheese Soup with home-made rolls

4) Maple French Toast Bake

5) Left-overs or Freezer-find

Join us in Menu Plan Monday if you dare!

Saving and Budgeting

I have been focusing on being thrifty in my spending lately. Part of this focus is about staying on budget at the grocery store. I clip coupons every week. I'm shopping the sales, using the coupons at just the right time and saving a lot of money in the process. Here are some tips that I'm learning to take advantage of:

1) MENU PLANNING - I'm planning meals each week while giving consideration to what is on sale during this weeks shopping trip. Having this plan definitely deters us from impromptu dining out. It also offers my Handy Hubby an opportunity to decide what he is willing to make for us one day this week... so I know I'll have a break. (He's so good!)

2) Making extra and freezing it for later. I make soup or chili and freeze at least two (more than one serving) containers for another day. I make two lasagnas or casseroles and have one for dinner and freeze the other.

3) Make ahead meats. I baked a 9 pound turkey one day last week. There were a lot of left-overs as that was a rather large bird for just two people. The following day I made turkey tetrazzini. The rest I chopped into bite size pieces and popped into the freezer for another quick meal. I also made a lasagna one day last week. I had left-over ground meat that I had already browned. There is enough to make a meat sauce, so I bagged it and froze it. Our meat sauce will be done in half the time next time.

I really am saving funds at the supermarket by carefully planning before I go. I know which stores have the best deals on everything and what I have coupons for. This week I planned three lists - Giant Eagle, Rite Aid, and Shop-n-Save. Lucky for me these three establishments are all on the main stretch of highway near me, all less than 3 miles from home. I got some super good deals at each place! Free lightbulbs. Free jump-drive!! Super-cheap chili seasoning, Ragu, ground round, boneless pork, and pepperoni slices! Add all this it last weeks plunder... we are stocked!

Dream Analysis

Two nights ago I had a dream in the early morning hours after my Handy Hubby had left for work. I had rented a house with some roommates, but moved out before the lease was up. I returned to gather a few last minute things to find that my roommates had also moved out, but did not clean behind themselves. There was a dog in the house who had been there for some time without anyone caring for it and it had made an overwhelming mess. So here I stood, gawking at the mess, with no tools to clean it up. I had one paper towel in my pocket. I was horrified, noting that I may as well kiss my security deposit goodbye.

I told my boss about this dream. He's an old psych nurse. Ya - he says I have issues. HA!!! Ya think!

Clean Heart: Week 4

Yes I know I've missed a couple weeks. Been working on other Bible Studies and haven't had time to build upon that any more than one at a time.

I love answered prayers. I am a prayer warrior... probably because I love answered prayers so much. When I pray, I record in my journal the things that I'm praying for. Sometimes I even write my prayers there too. Periodically I read through my older journals just for the simple task of recognizing answered prayers because it is a warm feeling to celebrate such things.

Let's take a look back at my past...

Years ago, we had been praying about our financial situation. We needed to be more budget savvy and purposeful. So God sent us to Kentucky to teach us about budgeting. First of all, we were giving up what we considered to be a comfortable home and our jobs and moving far far away rather blindly to pursue what the Lord layed on our hearts. I tried desperately to find a job before we got there. As a matter of fact, I interviewed FIVE times for one particular position and they didn't hire me because they weren't sure if I'd be staying in the area long-term. As it goes, some changes were occuring at work here at home and I developed a plan where I would be able to do my job from home. My employer was in favor, and even agreed to fly me home for a 10 day stay each month. I thought I had the best of both worlds, but when they hired yet another employee for the office, the answered prayer gets even better. She wanted a lot more money than my employer would pay on average so they gave me a hefty raise just because they couldn't pay her more than me. So here we were, being obedient and trusting God to provide for us and he piled on the blessing. Now with one of us in school and not working, things were still pretty shy in the budget category, but God made it so that the raise I received would make up for my husband not working. He provided a home that was walking distance to school, post-office, and general shopping needs. God truly poured out the mercy and grace in our situation. We still struggle to keep to a budget, but we know that God's plan is perfect and we can always rely on him to provide.

If you'd like to participate in the CLEAN HEART devotional, visit Dandelion Seeds. Create your blog entry, sign Mr Linky linking back to your post, and leave a comment.

I'm Tired

Not enough sleep. Too much activity. Early to work. Late to come home. Housework to do. Groceries to buy. Meals to cook. Studies to accomplish. Appointments to keep. Husband to spoil. (not in any order)

I'm tired.

Clean Heart Devotional - Week 1

Interestingly enough, when I recite Psalm 51:10, Proverbs 3:5 seems to automatically follow. There is a significant connection there. It's even significant that the author of this devotional series has chosen to link these two scriptures early in the study.

If our major purpose is to find a pure heart, what better way to begin the process than to recognize that we must trust the Lord and acknowledge him. It feels as if I'm on some sort of quest... to find the holy grail, which is purity of heart. Is it really a journey? Perhaps it seems as though it is, yet at the same time it is right in front of us. Reach out and grab it!

First of all, lack of trust is probably the number one corruptor of purity. Without trust in God, we find ourself seeking some level of comfort in our own abilities, or in those of someone or something that surrounds us. He tells us to trust him with "all our heart." That's not exactly simple. Our human nature is to guard our hearts. To trust him with "all our heart" creates true peace within. I am thankful that the Lord has blessed me with a heart of faith that just KNOWS that I can trust him. Faith is a gift from God. Not everybody has it.

Next... God deserves the glory! That is our #1 purpose as Christians, to glorify God. He reminds us that we are to acknowledge him in ALL our ways. That seems like a rather large task to tackle; however it does not have to be complex. I'm not very good at this. I forget so easily. My sinful nature makes this task REALLY hard to accomplish. Especially when the going gets tough. I know that my trust in the Lord will carry me through; however it is difficult to keep acknowledging God in those circumstances. If you have some practical suggestions on this... please share.

We are on a journey and many of our circumstances are to mold and mature us. We find ourselves constantly planning for the future and forgetting to enjoy what the Lord has in store for us today. What's even better is that we are afforded the opportunity to CHOOSE our direction. Although when we are deliberate in trusting and acknowledging God, we move in the direction he has for us.

A few years ago we left our home to go to Seminary. It was a significant time for us. While my husband did not complete his graduate course work there, we have never doubted that it was a purposeful journey. I suspect that there are friends or family that think we wasted our time because things did not work out as WE had planned. What they fail to realize is that we were simply living out what the Lord had called us to do at that point in our lives. We went where he led us and we are back home now because he led us back home. It was HIS plan, not ours. There were hard times there. We trusted in the Lord. We leaned on the Lord. And He provided for us and blessed us for our obedience. It's easy to plan about what we will do tomorrow, or next week, or next month. The true question is... what does God desire for you in those times? What direction will you choose? And will it be a selfish path? Or one that the Lord leads you to?

New Devotional

I'm going to be participating in a new on-line devotional. About a year ago, or more, I memorized a portion of scripture that has since been the focus of my heart.

Psalm 51:10

"Create in me a pure heart, O God,

and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

I have prayed over this scripture, pondering its significance, and have spent countless hours seeking wisdom in this regard. This devotional promises a significant journey with the Lord where I will grow substantially. So, if you are inclined to do so, join in and link up over at Dandelion Seeds. This is a weekly devotional so there is no pressure to make a daily post on it. The author is offering it as a FREE download although donations are accepted if one is inclined. So there is no cost other than some time and a willing heart.

Good Changes

Keith has agreed to make dinner for us at least one night per week. This happened to be TONIGHT. He made grilled ham and cheese sandwhiches and tomato soup. Mmmm Mmmm Good!

Just the fact that he was willing was such a relief for me. Finding myself not ready to relax and not sure what to do... I washed the dirty dishes. This made it seem more like a team approach, but really... dinner was all him.

I'm delighted that he is agreeable to such things. Some days I just need a break! Some days I just need to not worry about one more household thing. Some days... like today... I remind myself how lucky I am to have such a gem of a husband!

Funny Stuff

For a good laugh... head on over to my sister's blog. I busted a gut laughing!

Re-organizing

New years bring re-organizing. I like that. Being organized makes me feel like I have some level of control over the clutter in my life. I hate clutter!!!

I was just thinking about clutter the other day. I get to a certain point when the clutter is getting to me and I'm just shy of a melt-down. I feel under-prepared for guests and such... I was chatting with Handy-Hubby's mom about this because she was visiting and I was feeling guilty because our home was not of the standard of cleanliness that I desired for when company arrives. She assured me that it doesn't bother her one iota. As a matter of fact, she confessed to not being a very good house-keeper. (although I think she does just fine) She explained that when her children were young, she was a single parent. She worked full-time to care for them and had little time to worry about house-keeping aside from essentials. As a matter of fact, she said that on her day off she was NOT going to spend it trying to catch up on house-work, but instead spent quality time with her children. They went places... parks, museums, road-trips, picnics, etc. They enjoyed each other's company, made precious memories, and even learned about historical things and other educational topics. She did what really mattered and I commend her for that. Funny... as I sit here now pondering that conversation... Now I know why my Handy-Hubby is the way that he is. I understand why he's a "seize the day" kind of guy. I understand why he thinks that things can wait... why I don't need to "clean like the president's coming." (his words) I'm still annoyed by clutter, but understanding how he became the guy he is... even if he's a procrastinator of sorts... it helps.

Anyway... on with re-organizing things... I have much to re-organize:

1. I have a fresh clean calendar just waiting to be filled with dates to remember... birthdays... anniversaries...work schedules... Bible Studies... appointments... and even a menu.
2. I am learning how to be a better manager of funds... we have a budget and a plan to climb out of debt. We've been working on it for a while and are seeing the results... but we can't stop until we reach the goals! I'm learning to get the most for our money on groceries and other misc items. I plan ahead, clip coupons, shop sales, and stick to the list.
3. I'm learning that a huge part of budgeting and saving is linked to planning meals ahead. When I began I planned 3-4 meals per week that I would shop for and it didn't matter which days those would be. Now I'm upping that to a plan for at least 6 days per week and will soon be budgeting/planning more than just dinners (breakfast, lunch, and snacks too).
4. I'm learning about wholesome goodness for our home... whole grains, lean meats, fresh fruits and veggies, and lean dairy products. We are aspiring to "move more" in efforts to boost our overall health.
5. I cleaned in the basement this week. HH has a new toy - a table saw. I found all sorts of ways to de-clutter and organize our construction materials and such. It's a work in progress... but coming along.
6. I'm learning to keep up with my spiritual journal and devotions on a more consistent basis. Now that is God honoring!

So much to do and plenty of time to do it... I want to make a home binder with all our important information in it. Work in progress... I haven't even dug out a binder yet. Well.. the printer is on the fritz so I've been putting it off.

What are you doing to re-organize? Isn't it just so refreshing?!

Christmas 2007 Revealed

Christmas was grand this year... as it is most years. I must say that we were VERY spoiled... much more than in years past.

We celebrated with my family on the Sunday before Christmas. Everyone brought snacks and we nibbled all evening. The Zombeck's brought Guitar Hero and have since left it for Keith to practice. One of our together gifts this year was a new PS2 with Sing-Star. We played that too! Loved it!

The kiddos opened their packages with grand expectation. Each of them had several very special and thoughtful items from their aunts and uncles. They all seemed to be very pleased.

Keith and I also exchanged presents. He gave me a sewing box and a beautiful necklace. He received the infamous VAN HALEN tickets and the Zombecks even tacked on a parking pass... THANKS!!!! After weeks of pining over how to wrap them, I found a snowglobe that holds a photo and has an option for a recorded message. I made a photocopy of the tickets and slid it into the picture slot. Then I recorded a clip of "I Can't Stop Lovin You." That was our wedding song!!! Love it!!! I was so excited to see his face. He is a HUGE fan and this was a superb gift!!!

On Christmas day we celebrated with the Mock clan at Rene'e and Lee's place. It too was a grand affair. There was so much food and a house-full of guests. It was great to connect again and mingle amongst them. We left there feeling entirely spoiled AGAIN... a milk can that matches my spare room (need to pick it up), a really cool festive pyrex dish, some Bath & Body Works items, a candle, a 3-pack of nuts, a Kennywood mug, and a really cool wall hanging!!! Wowzer!!! Not expected!!! But boy was it a good time.

Keith's Mom and Step-dad were here this weekend. Not a long visit, but enough to enjoy and celebrate once more. They spoiled me with a lovely jewelry box... with a gingerbread man pin... and Keith got a TABLE SAW!!! Wahoo!!!! Now we just need some wood and he'll be building me all sorts of things!!! Denise & Randy sent me some earrings... bless her heart. She always picks out the coolest stuff. I love it! She picks things for me that I would not splurge on for myself. While they were in town they took us to a Brazillian restaurant in Monroeville. It was very unique... and quite delicious as well.

All is quiet today... Mom and Jim got on their way... We played some PS2. (I stink at racing) Nibbled on some leftoevers... and now he's watching the game while I blog. I've spent a lot of time thinking about the freshness of the new year that is quickly coming upon us. I have all sorts of organizing that I'd like to accomplish and self-improvement projects that will make the Lord proud of me. All works in progress and what better time to embrace them than at New Years!

Christmas 2007 at the Vulhop's was grand this year... and we are looking forward to many more in the the years to come!

My friend at work gave me this festive decorative pillow and tealight burner. The wall-hanging was made by K's grandmother the first year we were married. It is a decoration we display annually in our home.

Keith decorated the wine rack... the candy is from Tammy & Rob - THANK YOU!!!! It was yummy and is now all gone! (can you believe it!) The Santa was a gift from Rene'e from a few years ago.

Some of the lovely items that came with my name on them this year... The wall hanging was won in Rene'e's exciting gift exchange. The festive bear was from Joycie. She is so sweet. The jewelry box was from Mom & Jim and is quickly filling up!

VAN HALEN TICKETS!!!

PS2 with SingStar AND Guitar Hero

TABLE SAW!!!

These all came with Keith's name on them! He is SO SPOILED!!!

David LOVED his conductor outfit. I love that he loves it!

Also some Christmas sparkle!

Annual Ugly Ornament Contest

Feel free to vote for

1. The UGLIEST

2. The CUTEST

As much as I'd love to say that John won the ugly ornament contest... It's only fair to be gramitically correct... John's ORNAMENT won the ugly ornament contest. Click on the picture for a closer look. What the heck is is supposed to be anyway????

Here are all the uglies on display... this years on the tree and last years on the wall behind and beside it.

Rules of the game:

Ornament must be purchased.

Entry fee is $2

Everyone gets to vote.

Winner of the ugliest gets the money.

Winner of the cutest has to display all the uglies!

Entry #1 - Moms ugly bell.

Entry #2 - J's ugly camel

Entry #3 - Johns ugly ??? Pinecone???

Entry #4 - Amanda's ugly pillow thingy.

Entry #5 - J & K's ugly pig

FREE Entry... 2006 Ugliest Winner!!!!

Entry #6 - J & K's owl

Honestly people... it is REALLY ugly when it's not on the tree. As soon as we put it in/on the tree, it became really cute. What's up with that?!

Good Material To Acquire

Check out Laced With Grace who is having a really great give-away! This is great study material for the upcoming year. Sign up soon... we're almost out of time!

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Today we celebrate Jesus's birthday... not just us, but most everyone we know. What a joyous occasion it is! How lucky we are that God came to Earth to endure life as we do. Given the events of his life here, and death... what a perfect example of love He is. We are so blessed!

Have not had time to blog much lately. I'm craving a relaxing day... a fun-filled day... a energetic day... but... busy busy busy I am.

Sunday's Christmas celebration at our place with family was superb. As always the spread of food was overwhelming and duly delicious! The children were all delightful... full of joy and excitement. The boys loved the racing game and Keith enjoyed watching them play! The girls were decked out in their pretty red velvet dresses - how lovely! Everyone brought goodies to share.

The ugly ornament contest... Um... we lost... well, I suppose you could say that we won "the cutest" entry and thus we must display all the ugly ornaments in our home next Christmas. The Zombecks won. Check out their post to see how ugly the ornament REALLY is! I will post pictures soon. I just haven't uploaded them yet.

We were really spoiled this Christmas... more than any before. We are not planning to spoil ourselves much in the upcoming year. We figure we have finally made up for the past several years and it's time to regain our focus now. Keith has two Van Halen tickets and a parking pass for the concert! We got a together-gift of PS2 with the sing-star bundle. The Zombecks have loaned us their Guitar Hero and Keith is quickly becoming a pro at it. Re-Re... he's going to give you a run for your money next time we get together! (it's in his blood) I got a lovely sewing box and a beautiful pink-crystal necklace. So pretty!

Thank you Mom & Dad for the lovely Christmas tablecloth. It was perfectly festive for this occassion. Thank you Joycie for the lovely Christmas bear for my holiday trinket collection. It's precious... just like you. Thank you Mom & Dad for the fragrance of the candle we burned all day long for our Christmas celebration. It's my favorite scent and I so love candles!!! Thank you Amanda & John for the parking pass for the concert and for loaning us the Guitar Hero (and for most likely convincing K that he NEEDS one of his own) and for the delicious cookies that will most certainly stick to my thighs and butt!!! Oh but they are SO GOOD!!!! And I shared some with the Mocks today.

Today we celebrated with the Mock's... another huge feast and a home full to the brim with children and adults and presents and goodies! There was a gift exchange where we could choose a gift or steal a gift. We came home with an armload of lovely gifts that we were SO not expecting!

Later this week we will extend the festivities to celebrate with K's Mom and step-dad. We are excited that they are coming. They too are spoiling Keith this year. I can hardly wait to see his face when he opens the gift they are bringing!!!!

Now it's time to snuggle in for the night. He has had his 2 hours of Guitar Hero practice and I have had my own quiet time. Now it is time to snuggle in together... say our prayers... watch The Office... and doze off.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!

Secrets

I have the coolest present for my handy-hubby this year. I found the most clever way to wrap it too! I can't wait to spill the beans! Just a few more days!!!!

Here is somewhat of a hint...

Sharing The Wealth

Wendy says she wants my recipe for Oatmeal Cinnamon Chip Cookies. My handy-hubby is wanting to eat them as fast as I'm making them! (except I have a secret stash to share with guests!)

p.s. I made a batch the other day and didn't have time to bake them all. I baked half and then wrapped the other half in waxed paper in the fridge... a few days later I sliced them and baked them and they were just as yummy!

ENJOY!!

On Money... Budgeting... Spending

Rebecca at Renaissance got me thinking this morning. Read her post on Act Your Wage, Wage Your Actions.

Holiday spending is out of control in this country. My co-worker scrambles to find every last thing that her children desire. Frantically she makes numerous calls to find the hot items on the list. Meanwhile, I fuss over the idea of purchasing an additional gift that I know my hubby wants instead of using some unexpected funds to either pay off a bill, save for our some-day home, or spoiling someone else. As I muse over my options my coworker says "Just charge it" and is amazed when I respond that I do not use credit cards. We are quite focused on getting out of debt and have made huge strides in the past couple of years. With each month I see us climbing hand over fist up up up out of the hole of debt and closer to our goals.

In regards to money... we figure that it is NOT our money, but what we have is provided on-loan from the Lord. We are thankful for such blessing. Managing it is not always easy. We have a budget. We've re-done the budget many many times. The hard part is sticking to the budget! I think keeping the focus is the biggest obstacle. Gift giving is part of the budget. It's HARD to stick to the budget when the desires of ones heart wish to spoil someone BEYOND the budget!

In our household, we usually purchase a sensible gift for eachother, something for a needy family or two from the church angel tree, and a gift for each child in our family. We have 10 precious ones so we have to carefully budget the expenses in order to choose one modest gift for each niece and nephew. Contrary to what some may think... we do not have a large budget for gift giving at Christmas time.

We have decided that TIME is actually a better gift than any. This year we spent one Saturday taking my parents to the Soldiers and Sailors museum, out for dinner, and to a holiday show of the Ralaigh Ringers. We proclaimed that this was their gift from us.... a little spoiling on a night of togetherness doing something interesting and festive. Having a few hours of undivided attention was gift enough for me... and based on their responses we understand that they enjoyed it as well.

I am thankful that our family intends to celebrate with us in our home this year. For me... TIME is the greatest gift and thus I shall be mighty spoiled this Christmas!!!!

Not Much New

Plugging along... late nights and early mornings. I'm stressed and I'm tired. I'm so thankful for my loving hubby who rubs my feet when I ask and tries to declutter the house so as to avoid any meltdown-like behavior on my part. He's the best!

Annual Fun and Tradition

The search for the ugliest ornament is one its way! Here is a peak at last years UGLIEST...

We THINK we found an uglier one... but ya'll will have to wait to see it. Can't give it away just yet.

Have any ugly ornaments to share?

I Need A Plan

I'm giving myself a pep-talk tonight. I'm feeling very UGH after the holiday, traveling, being under the weather, the crazy stress at work and the fact that I have NOT been looking out for myself lately. I have confessions... I have not been exercising. I have not been watching what I eat (unless you count the fork to the mouth). I had french fries with lunch AND dinner today. (shame shame) I have not been taking my Omega-3's. I have not been planning well. I have not been taking any "me" time. I have not been taking care of house-work much. What is wrong with me?

I need a plan:

1. I will make time first thing in the morning for God. Read scripture and pray. This does not have to be lengthy, but it does have to be meaningful. Suggestions: clip a coupon of wisdom (to be redeemed later of course), or meditate on a particular portion of scripture, or post a snippet of the devotion on my blog.

2. I will make time to read significant e-mails before and after work. I will allow insignificant ones to WAIT until free-time. I will not allow the clutter of such to overwhelm me. (it's my OCD)

3. I will read at least 3 health related articles each day. (internet or magazine etc.)

4. I will make special time for my hubby each day. I will ask him what I can do to help him. I will greet him pleasantly. I will strive to care for our home in a way that is orderly and comfortable. (making meals, cleaning, decorating, etc.)

5. I will look ahead to tomorrow and plan accordingly. I will keep a calendar of engagements in such a way that my husband is aware of our obligations. I will ensure that we both have clean laundry. I will make sure our bills are paid on-time. I will make sure that we have the supplies that we need for the days/week ahead. (groceries, etc.)

6. I will take the steps instead of the elevator. I will park farther away than usual. I will do simple stretching exercises at my desk at least twice every day. I will complete my simply free-weights workout each evening for the next 5 days. I will re-establish regular cardiovascular workouts this weekend.

7. Water will be my drink of choice, and lots of it. Coffee will be minimized to 2 cups per day (if that). I will focus on consuming vegetables this week. I will NOT eat french fries or bleu cheese dressing again this week. (my 2 biggest challenges!)

Lighter Loads??? Not Actually

WHEW!!! The load feels lighter today having put behind us a number of big quarterly meetings at work (last night). Still back-logged. Still overwhelmed. Still insanely behind... But today shall be a little lighter on the mind than before.

Are You Feeling Lucky?

GoodyBlog has a bunch of giveaways that are easy to enter. Lots of kids stuff.

Blessings Monday

If you would like to join us in sharing our blessings, or even if you just want to read up on some other people's blessings (which is a blessing in itself), head on over to Marci's blog "Down On The Farm" to link up.

Brrrrrrrr... what a frigid morning. There is snow on the ground. It's been wet and C-O-L-D! I appreciate warmth of my home and what is there to provide it.... a furnace in working order, a husband with strong loving arms to embrace me, a stove to make hot water for tea, coffee, or cocoa, or... BLANKETS!

This week I am blessed by warm blankets. As the cold settles in here in Western PA, I find myself feeling satisfied snuggled deep down within the layers of multiple blankets in our comfy bed. Not everyone has this luxury. There are those near and far who lack such warmth, even from something as simple as a blanket.

My favorite blanket, and the one on the bed this week, is one that my hubby bartered for in Guatemala. I'll have to see if I have a photo to share. I'm not taking one this morning as Handy Hubby is still sleeping. Sorry - maybe later. For now... enjoy this photo of our kitty snuggled between two covers... the bottom one is the favorite one. You can see the color and how the panels of it are sewn together.

I realize that I am blessed to house and utilize multiple blankets in our home, especially compared to many areas of the world where blankets are not so easy to come by. I thank the Lord because He meets this simple yet profound need in my life... the need for warmth.

Heavy Burdens... Work

Matthew 11:28-30 (NRSV)

[Jesus said] "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens,
and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am
gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke
is easy, and my burden is light."

Work is weighing hard on me this week... and last week... and the week before that. UGH. With one of my co-workers having resigned, I am feeling that 'sinking ship' type of feeling. We finally have a temp, which I appreciate, but we have to teach her and direct her. It's a good thing overall. My volume has sky-rocketed, while demands for other this's and that's roll in constantly. We have to stop everything today to prep for our quarterly meetings tonight. It's going to be a LONG day, a long, long day.

So this morning I feel the burden of stress at work. The Lord will give me strength to endure today and the days to come. I long to feel the rest and peace that comes from Him.