tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6124007573963529072024-02-07T20:17:13.550-05:00Must Share...Wit. Whimsy. Wisdom. Whatever I feel like sharing...Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.comBlogger226125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-68348634925480064542016-03-29T22:41:00.002-04:002016-03-29T22:41:47.037-04:00The Disney Files Part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The dining account continues....<br />
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I recapped our first three days of dining <a href="http://mustsharereadifyoudare.blogspot.com/2016/02/the-disney-files-part-2.html">here</a>.<br />
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Day 4 was one of our favorite days of the vacation! I almost skipped Animal Kingdom but thank THE LORD people talked me out of that! Such an awesome park. So many great shows, animals and probably rides, though we went on very few of them...<br />
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We started our day at Tusker House in Harambe Village. It is an excellent breakfast buffet featuring Donald, Daisy, Goofy and Mickey in their safari garb. We loved this character dining experience! The food was pretty amazing, as well. More African fare, but also plenty of the basics. The specialty juice was delightful, too! Chloe found the cherry topping to be one of the best breakfast foods she's ever had the pleasure of eating. I wish I could say that she ate the topping... ATOP something, but...nope. Hey, we were on vacation. And girlfriend needed some happy food! :)<br />
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Lunch was an African version of a corn dog, which was interesting. It came with a black eyed pea, corn and tomato salad. For dessert, an African milk tart. None of it rocked my world and you can imagine Chloe's opinion, since I made her share it with me. We definitely wouldn't go back there, but Harambe Market was THE ONLY thing that we didn't absolutely love about Africa. We literally spent an entire day in Africa. We had to go back the next day to see the rest of the park!<br />
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For dinner that night, we met the Hubster (who had to work all day) at 'Ohana. It's every bit as good as you've heard. Seriously, so delicious!! It's an All You Care to Enjoy dinner and unfortunately, I didn't take the waitress seriously when she said to save room for dessert. I've never felt more sorrow at a restaurant than I felt when I could only eat three bites of that amazing bread pudding. To die for! I think it was this night that I vowed that I was never eating again. So much delicious food. You just have to choose to skip some of it so you don't feel like a failure come dessert...<br />
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Day 5 we were back at Animal Kingdom, first thing. We opted to grab a fast breakfast at Starbucks and the Bacon Egg and Gouda on a ciabatta roll was surprisingly delicious. Chloe had a smoothie and a delectable piece of lemon bread or something to that effect. Whatever it was it was quite tasty.<br />
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<br />We did a quick service lunch in Asia and it was again, just ok. I got the Honey Chicken at the Yak and Yeti Quick Service and it wasn't anything to write home about, yet here I am writing about it... Figure that one out. I'm eternally kicking myself for not hitting Flame Tree Barbecue instead. I'm not sure why that wasn't on my radar, but I've read nothing but amazing things about that place since I've been home! Ahhh!!! I will not make that mistake next time.<br />
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We had a much anticipated hot date at Hollywood Studios for dinner at the 50's Prime Time Diner. It did NOT disappoint. My only regret was not getting the fried chicken. I opted to go for variety. I was hoping that Chloe would love one of the three things that came on the sampler, so I had her order that. Mercifully, the fried chicken was one of them, so we were both able to enjoy the best fried chicken I've ever had the pleasure of chewing. It was THAT good. I very much look forward to going back. Oh my deliciousness. The other items were meatloaf and pot roast and those were not even noteworthy compared to the chicken. I had the stuffed pork chop, which shocker, also paled in comparison to the chicken. I'm not sure anything could have compared. I trust this will be one of the meals I remember for a good long time, and not because of our AWESOME waitress or the super fun kitsch. We once again failed our dessert, as in - couldn't take a single bite, so we brought it back with us. After dragging it around Disney Springs for 2 hours, I'm not sure we got the full effect of what that Pineapple Upside Down cake could have been if not for being upside down, then right side up again and again and again. Note to self! Skip the milk shake with dinner. You knew it was a bad idea when you ordered it! This is the hardest thing for me with the dining plan. You are entitled to all of this food, but unless you are some sort of Eating Olympian, you cannot possibly rise to the occasion.<br />
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Day 6 was our final day and while we were sad about that, we did not let it steal the magic! Good thing we were feeling super positive and festive because it poured on us the majority of the day! Not pleasant. We still had a great time, though. Come on, even sopping wet, we were at DISNEY WORLD! Nothing could get us down!<br />
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We actually slept in on our last day and ate breakfast at our resort food court. The make your own omelet was so good that I got another one before heading home the next day. Chloe had a yogurt parfait the size of her head, which we subbed for my drink. We shared 4 or 5 of our meals and that is one of the main reasons I really think we could do without the meal plan next time. It was not at all what I had envisioned in my head. More on that in a future post.<br />
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For lunch we ended up at Cosmic Rays, mainly because Chloe was desperate for something simple like a hamburger. I tried to talk her into a hot dog at Casey's Corner, but she wasn't having it. I had my doubts about a burger at the Magic Kingdom, but I must say, I was pleasantly surprised. The toppings bar really confirmed my decision to split the burger. With the fries (that were super yummy) and the green beans that I got in place of dessert, much to Chloe's dismay, it was plenty of food for the two of us.<br />
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We went big for our final dinner and ate at Cinderella's Royal Table. This was two credits each, which was made possible by Frank eating out with his boss one night. The overall experience at the castle was phenomenal! I was a little surprised that there wasn't fast pass photographers at the character meal, so I'm not sure if that is normal or what, but my battery was almost dead and I was sweating thinking that I might not get pics of all of the princesses with my princess! Somehow we managed, but that was really odd to me. The food, on the other hand, far exceeded my expectations! There wasn't a lot to choose from, but Chloe and I each got the filet and it was superb! A magical end to some incredible dining experiences! I cannot WAIT to go back. :)<br />
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Next up I'll dish about the snacks and treats we enjoyed. And the ones that we forgot to enjoy that are still haunting me 2 months later. I'm looking at you Nutella Waffle sandwich...<br />
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I know, let's go back RIGHT NOW!<br />
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<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-70118823669919928902016-03-01T10:38:00.000-05:002016-03-01T10:56:25.991-05:00The Disney Files Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Are you ready to hear about every single thing I ingested whilst at Disney? I'm sure not, so I'll try to restrain myself. I will share our experiences for the first few days in this post. It's probably best to deliver my thoughts in bite sized chunks. More palatable that way. Puns intended. I'm sure there are more to come :)<br />
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Once upon a time, we went to Chicago for a week. Chloe and I crashed Frank's business trip, so our accommodations were covered and we still managed to go WAY over budget. Food is expensive when you are on vacation, and I knew Disney would be at least as bad as Chicago, if not worse. I didn't want any surprises, so in the spirit of go big or go home and we're probably never doing this again, I opted to purchase the Disney Dining Plan. I had read many articles during my <a href="http://mustsharereadifyoudare.blogspot.com/2016/02/must-share-disney-files-part-1.html">planning phase</a> that said it isn't always the best value, but considering how much I love to eat, I figured we would easily get our monies worth. I'm not sure that it panned out that way, but regardless, here's my play by play. Also, for the purposes of clarification: We were on the plan which allowed us (At first I typed - afforded us, but then that made me laugh too hard to continue) one snack, one quick service meal, and one table service meal for each night we were there. When I don't mention breakfast, it's because we ate Clif bars in the room. So... Yeah. Nothing to see here.<br />
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As I mentioned in my last post, a huge portion of my planning energy went toward choosing restaurants, booking reservations, agonizing over my decisions, starring at menus again, changing reservations and then hoping I had made all of the right decisions. <br />
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One of the first things I did was ask my Facebook friends for their restaurant recommendations. This was huge! Hearing from different people in varied seasons of life was beneicial. I knew I wanted to eat dinners at Sanaa, 50's Prime Time and 'Ohana. Based on other things I had read online, I really wanted to eat lunch at Be Our Guest and dinner at Cinderella's Royal Table.<br />
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Day One - We arrived at our resort around 7:00 PM or so and opted to eat at our resort food court since we were, A. super hungry, and B.even more tired. The Riverside Mill Food Court had many cafeteria style offerings and all of us opted for the pasta bar. It was far from the tastiest pasta I have ever eaten, but it was much better than what you would expect from a food court. Overall, it worked for what we needed under the circumstances. <br />
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On Saturday (Day Two), we had planned to be in the parks all day, but the the Florida weather convinced us otherwise. Fifty degrees and thirty mile per hour winds? Really, Florida? Come on. We could have stayed in Michigan for that madness.<br />
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We ended up at Disney Springs and ate lunch there. It was underwhelming. Due to some logistical errors, we had to split up for lunch lest anyone die of starvation. You know, the super first world version of starving to death. We are at Disney World but we can suck the magic right out of the happiest place on earth if our blood sugar dips ever so slightly. In a not very shocking plot twist, no one absolutely loved what they had here, there and everywhere. But you know what they say.... Haters gonna hate especially when they be lunchin' late. To protect the (probably) innocent restaurants, I won't name any names. I'm sure it was us, not them. Honestly, I have to say I did enjoy my sweet potato tots from the Food Truck where I got my lunch. The buffalo chicken and waffles weren't all bad either.<br />
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Saturday evening we had a delightful meal at Sanaa. Thankfully, I had read something about making sure to be there in the daylight, so despite the monkey wrench that it threw into my plans, I switched things around to make sure we could be there before sundown and I'm so glad that I did!!! Our table overlooked the savanna and there were zebra right outside our window while we were eating! They could have served us Purina Dog Chow and it still would have been an awesome experience. Luckily, they didn't. We started out with the Indian style bread service. We went for it and ordered all nine sauces to dip the five different types of of naan bread in, and we were impressed! My entree wasn't the greatest, but again, this was probably me, not them. Dessert totally made up for it. Chloe was, shall we say, extremely disillusioned by the food but surprisingly Sanaa came through with an excellent burger and turned her frown upside down. Glory, hallelujah! And the cookies and milk dessert was the literal icing on the,well, cookie. The Hubster and I shared our desserts and they were divine. Our awesome waiter recommended the kulfi, which was a super rich and delicious custard like ice cream. I think it was strawberry. I know for sure it was delectable. We also ordered the Tanzanian chocolate mousse and it was good, but paled in comparison to the kulfi. I expect most of the desserts would.<br />
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On Sunday (Day 3), we hit three of the four parks. It was the only day that the Hubster could join us, so we had to make it count. We had lunch reservations at Be Our Guest (For a quick service credit! Such a phenomenal value and experience!), which was another highly anticipated meal and it completely delivered! Well, for two of the three of us, anyway. Chloe, who is not usually that finicky, was NOT feelin' the food at Disney World. Which was the only down side to our entire trip. She basically lived on ice cream and green beans. Chloe and I both had the braised pork and it was delicious! The Hubster had the tuna nicoise salad and was equally impressed. We couldn't eat at the Beast's Castle without trying The Grey Stuff, which was indeed delicious, as promised. Spoiler alert: It's the Oreos that make it both grey and delicious. What with Oreos bring one of my primary love languages, I was wishing I could have ordered a vat of it.<br />
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We did not have dinner reservations for this night, due to last minute juggling required to be at Sanaa before it got dark... We went to Epcot knowing that we would be able to find something there. In my heart, I had known we would end up at the German buffet Biergarten, even though the Hubster never wanted to commit. He is a huge fan of German food, so this surprised me, but we did, in fact, end up there, and I'm so glad we did. The food was just okay, for me, but the macaroni and cheese could go down in the record books for the most fattening (it was also delicious) thing I ate while I was there, which... considering I ate dessert sometimes as many as 4 times a day, that is really saying something! Super yummy. The awesome part about our dinner was sitting with a family from England that was a true delight to get to know. Also, like most German restaurants, there was live entertainment! Super fun. And let us not forget the hefeweizen. Yum.<br />
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I'd say that's enough food for thought for today, friends. Next time, the rest of the story. At least the rest of the food story. I have a feeling this Disney Files series is far from over. Thanks for reading!!What is your favorite restaurant at Disney World?<br />
<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-75463201372117886072016-02-28T15:11:00.000-05:002016-02-28T15:11:51.047-05:00Must Share... The Disney Files (Part 1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After much planning and anticipation, we went to Disney in January. I had myself convinced it would be a one time deal, so we went the go big or go home route and stayed on Disney property, did the dining plan and hopper passes. The whole she-bang! We had so much fun and I just can't bear the thought of not sharing every detail with you, so here we are with the first installment. <br />
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Part One - The Planning<br />
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I'm not gonna lie, the planning was exhausting. I'm an over-thinker, so planning can be a real love/hate thing for me. I'm pretty sure you could get a PhD in Disney planning, and since I didn't have one, my head was smoking at times. I read books, blogs and pinterest, polled the facebook audience, enlisted the help of a travel agent and probably spent as many hours planning as we spent in total on the actual vacation. By the time we left for Florida, a huge part of me was excited for it to be over with so I could STOP THINKING ABOUT IT ALREADY, FOR THE LOVE OF MICKEY MOUSE. Seriously. It's a lot of planning.<br />
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I had been twice before, when I was 5 and 16ish, so I had no experience with the planning end of things. The unknown factor always makes things more difficult, but my WORD. Not having a grasp on things where researching a Disney vacation is concerned really puts you at a disadvantage. Next time will be so much easier!<br />
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I began reading and researching about a year and a half before our trip. Yes, you read that right. We knew the Hubster would be down there for work at a certain time, so we had a lot of notice. We also had a baby and no plans for any fun vacations in the meantime, so I had a lot of time, energy and vacation anticipation to devote to this one! I had been pinning things on a Pinterest board I had entitiled Someday. It was so exciting when I could finally start reading those with an actual trip in mind! <br />
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The first choice that had to be made was where to stay. This was one of the easiest decisions for me and I'm very happy with how that turned out. More details on that in a future post. I knew that I wanted to stay on property, because I had my heart set on using the Disney Dining plan and that's only an option for Disney Resort guests. Based on information from friends who had recently stayed in a value resort, recommendations from my agent, and the fact that a Deluxe resort was not within our budget, we opted to stay at Port Orleans Riverside, a nice moderate choice. We loved it. Again, more details to come.<br />
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The next most pressing item of business, since we were using the Dining plan, was restaurant reservations. These can be made 180 days in advance. In fact, it is strongly recommended to make them as soon as your window of opportunity opens up, especially for some of the more popular restaurants. This is where I spent TONS of my time. I'm a huge fan of food, so I really enjoyed this part of it. Once my reservations were made, I took a big long break from thinking about Disney! Which was fine, since I still had 6 months before the trip!<br />
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The next time sensitive item on the to do list was fast pass reservations. I bought a book for my daughter and we read through that together to decide what we wanted to do at each of the parks. This was our main source of information on the attractions, shows and all the parks had to offer. The reviews in the book were by kids for kids and that was good and bad. In some ways, I felt it was a little misleading, but that is one more thing that you don't really know until you experience it for yourself. The day I was able to reserve our fast passes, If all of these things sound foreign, crazy or ridiculous to you, I know exactly how you're feeling. There were so many things I didn't know about, understand or want to figure out! I'm telling you, once you've been and have seen the importance of the different requirements, options, etc., it really all makes sense. Unfortunately, your first time planning it, you have to go by other people's advice and experience and basically feel your way in the dark and go into it somewhat blind. I was lucky to be there at a very slow time (late January) so I was able to move some things around once I had a better idea of things, but most people will not have that luxury.<br />
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What are your best Disney planning tips? When are you going? I would go back next month if I had a Disney Money Tree growing in the back yard!!!<br />
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Next up, Part 2 Disney Dining!<br />
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Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-40936571603297306812015-06-11T21:59:00.000-04:002015-06-11T21:59:15.589-04:00Greater Love Hath No Mom than to Watch Treasure Buddies with her DaughterHave you seen that movie? I do not recommend it. <br />
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She gave me a choice between Horton Hears a Who, Despicable Me, and Treasure Buddies. <br />
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I chose Despicable Me and she said, "Aw.... I thought you'd choose Treasure Buddies!" (Really?!?!?!? It's like you don't even know me!) So, I say, "Is that the one you want to watch?" I already knew the answer... "Yeah..." <br />
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And that is how I came to spend 93 minutes cuddled up watching one of the dumber movies of all time tonight. All in the name of love. Where do I collect my Mother Of The Day Award? <br />
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And a looooong day it has been, too. Someone must have found out there was a plot afoot to sleep in and at 6:15 AM decided he had had enough sleep. I won't mention any names, but it was the one person who requires my assistance when conscious, so that basically crushed my dreams for the day. Sigh.<br />
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I still love ya, summer - but let's aim for 8 tomorrow, shall we?Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-13042680024109100002015-06-10T21:55:00.002-04:002015-06-11T11:24:21.812-04:00In Which I Attempt to String Words Together that Adequately Express my SHEER JOY Regarding Summer Vacation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Spoiler Alert: It can't be done.<br />
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There aren't enough words in the English language (nor the 4 words I know in Spanish) to express the joy that my heart feels about not getting up at 6:30 AM and not packing a lunch. Not even the Emoji's can communicate my happiness. I checked.<br />
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Oh, summer! How I've missed you! Not that I really enjoy hot weather or being outside or the assortment of pests that you bring along with you, but all of that is beside the point. I don't have to wash school uniforms, commute to school in another county, or single handedly fill a landfill, WEEKLY, with obscene amounts of school assignments. So I will squash bugs with a smile on my face. <br />
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While sweating.<br />
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Outside.<br />
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Not that I kill bugs outside. Mostly, only if they insist on living in my house. Because, no. You have an entire planet to live in, so get out of my house or die. I'm getting off topic, though.<br />
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Speaking of off-topic.<br />
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My air conditioner in my car is not working correctly and it is creating a First World Problem of Epic Proportions over here. The only thing worse than being outside on a hot summer day, is being in a car without air on a hot summer day. You've been there. Back soaked with sweat, hair in tiny knots that make that pixy cut that you can NOT pull off seem like a brilliant idea. That last part is probably just me.<br />
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Here's the funny part. Ironic, really. The air <i>does</i> work. Just none of the vents that can actually be pointed in my direction. The driver. Who is always in the car. So, I pity the fool who sits in the passenger seat, because that person will be needing a cardigan, for real. I have to BLAST the air over there and then WILL it, through intense prayer and supplication, to circulate and eventually cool my quadrant of the vehicle, in the hope that I won't spontaneously combust whilst driving down the expressway.<br />
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I should get that checked out, spontaneous combustion would put a serious damper on summer vacation.<br />
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Happy Sleeping In, friends! What are your big plans for the summer?<br />
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<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-50430325636087141952014-10-18T21:20:00.003-04:002014-10-18T21:20:46.897-04:00The Epic Tale of The Chipmunk ChaseLesson #1. Always leave the door closed. Especially the one right next to the woodpile that a certain chipmunk calls home. <div>
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Some lessons are learned the hard way. </div>
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You would think, that on this day, the day that Chloe's dream of having horses came true, that the title and topic of this post would be well... About that. But that's not the case. No. Not the case, at all.</div>
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Our story starts when one of the helpers bringing the horses asked the simple and innocent question... Can I use your bathroom? </div>
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Sure! No problem! </div>
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And Chloe led the way. Dear, sweet Chloe. Who has not mastered the art of closing doors.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Ahem.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
About an hour later, I discovered the door was wide open. And had been for at least an hour. But it wasn't until oh.... about 9 hours after that, that it was discovered that Mr. Chipmunk had checked in for the day. Let's try not to think about how many times a chipmunk does bathroom related business in a 9 hour period.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was putting a very weepy, very tired Chloe to bed. We were trying to deal with the fact that her suitcase from her overnight at grandma's last night was still, unfortunately in grandma's backseat. 25 minutes from here. With her blankie in it... I was just about to head out of the room, fingers crossed, prayerfully hoping she was tired enough to fall asleep without it. When I heard and saw something strange... Was it a ball rolling into her room? Who would be rolling a ball into her room? I turned and there he was. For a hot second. And then he was gone.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"BABE!!!!! Get down here! There's a chipmunk down here!" I hollered up the stairs.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
He came thundering down. "WHAT?!?!"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"There's a chipmunk in down here."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"In Chloe's room?" He asked.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Nope. I don't know where he is now. He went that-a-way." I explained.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I only wish that the next 30 minutes (give or take) could have been recorded. Oh, what a treasure of comedic entertainment that would be. There was laughing. There was chasing. There was squealing. It was like the squirrel scene from Christmas Vacation. Minus the Santa hat.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We had him cornered in my closet. Frank was on his knees with his head on the ground looking under the dresser. "It's going to end up on my head. Just like in Christmas Vacation." He said. "Yes, if you leave your head there, you're probably right. At least you got a tetanus shot the other day!" I said. Always looking on the bright side, I am. "Yeah, but I didn't get a rabies shot." </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Oh, right."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Chloe was in her room, pretty mad because I had shut the door when I left. I went back in to check on her, and always the comedian, said: "Well, just when you think leaving your blanket in Grandma's car is your biggest problem, next thing you know there's a chipmunk in your room!" Despite her best efforts not to, she smiled.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Back to check on dad and the chipmunk.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
By this point he had escaped the first closet and was currently cornered in a different closet, this one big enough that I could block off the entrance trapping Frank in there with the chipmunk. And his weapon of choice. A towel. "What are you going to do with the towel?" I ask, laughing. "I'm going to catch him and take him outside. I thought I had him in there (the bedroom closet.) but he's FAST!"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Don't I know it. Especially after he jumped about a foot in the air (the chipmunk, not the husband) and cleared the barricade. That I was CERTAIN was going to contain him. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Back to the bedroom.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Why didn't we close that door and block the space under it?!?!?" I bemoaned. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In my defense... There's a lot to think about whilst chasing a chipmunk through the house. Even the smartest of people can't think of everything.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This time in the bedroom, he was hiding under the crib. (Found the missing pacifer! Score!) Then he got into the baseboard heater. This was when I dissolved into a fit of giggles. At one point he ran right over my feet. RIGHT OVER MY FEET!!!!!!!!!! I squealed. More fits of giggles. He actually seemed to be showing himself out as he ran to the door and dove at the window. Drat! If only it had been open! So then we open the door and try to chase him that way. But of course he won't go that way once the door is open.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Except he did. Eventually. After a trip to the office and back to the bedroom.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Whew. That was a hoot!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Staying off of the show Hoarders is no longer my biggest motivation for getting my basement neat and tidy. You don't realize how many hiding places you are creating with all manner of totes and tubes of clothing strewn all about the living room and office. Getting that mess organized is now #2 on my to do list.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Right after teaching my girl to CLOSE the door.</div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-54094705886331311932014-06-23T14:05:00.002-04:002014-06-23T14:05:48.565-04:004 Things That I Must Share...I've noticed lately that many of the blog posts being shared are a certain number of things about whatever random topic. For instance, <br />
<br />
13 Lessons From...<br />
<br />
3 Intentional Ways to.... <br />
<br />
8 Conversations To Have With...<br />
<br />
And so on, and so on, and on. It seems to me there was a class about blogging that I missed called, Writing Posts With Numbers! Now, with even more Numbers!! I didn't get invited to the class, but I catch on quick, so I will now join in.<br />
<br />
<br />
1. Since sleep has been such a topic of conversation around here, it seems only fitting that I would share that I ACTUALLY SLEPT FROM 11:00 PM to 5:30 AM! Except for when I dreamed (I think?!?) that Chloe was calling me and I woke up trying to decide if I dreamed it or not. I was able to fall back to sleep rather quickly, thank you, Jesus, Amen. I dare not assume it could be the new normal, because, like I said about Murphy and his super annoying law... But the night before last, my boy slept a decent stretch, not quite that long, but I was up with a terrible headache. I literally laid there awake for 3 hours while he didn't so much as budge or make a peep. I would lament the unfairness of life, etc. But, I have received the memo about life NOT being fair. Several times, in fact.<br />
<br />
I am a mom, after all.<br />
<br />
2. I am on a quest for new, delicious, summery recipes. You know, to replace all the soups and chili and steamy casseroles that have no business on my dinner table June through August. Please feel free to put links in the comments here, or on facebook. I have been making more salads and lighter things, so I'm on my way, but your help would be greatly appreciated. I'll share a couple of my new favorites on the blog in the coming weeks.<br />
<br />
3. We are in the very early stages of planning a Disney trip. I can think of many, many other vacations I would prefer to go on, (Hawaii? Barbados? Tahiti, anyone?) but I definitely want to get Chloe down to Princessville while she is still young enough to enjoy the magic and beauty and wonder of it all. And I hear there are good eats, so I'm sure I'll have a fine time, too. :) If you have gone, please share your favorite things to do, and what you think Chloe, who will be 7 when we go (unless we manage to win the lotto without actually playing the lotto) would absolutely love. Food recommendations earn you extra bonus points. Also, because it's so far out, we are not sharing this with her anytime soon.<br />
<br />
4. If someone needs to thaw cool whip in a hurry, I know about it... My claim to fame on this blog is <a href="http://mustsharereadifyoudare.blogspot.com/2009/05/wfmw-thawing-cool-whip-fast.html">a little post I wrote</a> for the Works for Me Wednesday blog carnival that <a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/">We Are THAT Family</a> does every Wednesday. It's about thawing Cool Whip quickly, and my blog comes up as the third source for such information if you consult the google in your Cool Whip related emergencies. Of all the efforts, heart, and hilarity I've put into this blog, it positively CRACKS ME UP, that 95% of my page views are for Cool Whip related inquiries. I just shake my head and hope someday, I can top that. Perhaps with Rediwhip.<br />
<br />
That will conclude the randomness for today. You can be sure there will be more number-y posts coming soon.<br />
<br />
<br />
With Cool Whip on top. <br />
<br />
<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-531760611831962322014-06-11T21:24:00.000-04:002014-06-11T21:24:13.476-04:00FREEEEEDOOOOOOM!!!!At the risk of sounding melodramatic...<br />
<br />
Free at last, free at last! Thank God Almighty, I'm free at last.<br />
<br />
I wonder if I will still feel that way in a week? Or a month?<br />
<br />
All I know is that I don't have to set an alarm for the next 2.5 months and that feels like freedom to me.<br />
<br />
Speaking of alarms, I slept through mine today. I started packing her lunch at 7:08 and my beloved morning person car pooler gets here at 7:10. Good thing I can make a PBJ like a boss.<br />
<br />
She was still not late for school, but that will teach me to toot my newly acquired punctuality horn when there is still a day of school left. Let's not tempt Murphy, the little demon he is, and his stupid law. I should know better. Blame it on the sleep deprivation.<br />
<br />
So, WOOT for no more school. Now if my other offspring would forage for berries in the night instead of bothering me with all his hungry whining, I might actually be able to get rid of the luggage under my eyes. I kid about the hungry whining, of course... Lest any of my CPS worker friends read this. Nothing to see here, people. Move along.<br />
<br />
Speaking of hungry whining... I'm not even convinced he's hungry. I have to wonder if it's more of a habit, at this point. Many people report that 4 months or so has been the age that their babies suddenly sleep through the night. Soooo, here's hoping. <br />
<br />
All aboard the sleep train, Bubby! Choo-choo!!!<br />
<br />
Because really, what good is freedom without sanity? <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-3869434651540903252014-06-10T08:24:00.001-04:002014-06-10T08:29:39.733-04:00The Homestrech and One of My Most Embarrasing MomentsWell, kids... It's the second to the last day of school. We have nearly survived kindergarten. I would like the record to reflect that I didn't make Chloe late for school all year. Not one time. This is an acheivement I never thought possible. I must give credit where credit is due. Of the 168 school days, I probably drove her to school less than 60 of them. My amazing car pool buddy is a MORNING PERSON. She LIKES waking up. While I don't understand this phenomenon, I am thankful that it exists and that I am blessed enough to have such a person come to my house every morning and deliver my progeny to school. On Time.<br />
<br />
When I was responsible for getting myself to school on time, it didn't go quite so smoothly, despite the fact that I lived one block from the school. I usually left in time to get to school on time, but I chose to drive outside of town to pick up my bestie. We were late pretty much every day. How we didn't get in major trouble, I'm really not sure. I think the attendance lady, who most people complained about, found me amusing. And really, who could blame her? Thinking back on it, I'm glad I could bring some humor to her otherwise mundane job. She was usually pretty grouchy and kinda mean, but I remember one day when she got a good laugh. At our expense...<br />
<br />
Usually it was the same story. I'm late. Because I didn't get up early enough. But sometimes what happened after that was so entertaining I couldn't help but share. This morning in particular, a great number of people got a pretty good laugh out of our late arrival...<br />
<br />
It was a snowy morning and I was, of course, late. I had picked up G and we had finally made it to school. As we raced into the parking lot, too fast for summertime, but especially too fast for a snowy winter morning, we were about to make the slight turn right in front of the school. The front window was to the classroom that we were supposed to have reported to 10 minutes ago. There was a fairly large pile of snow right outside of the classroom window, due to the recent plowing. We didn't stand a chance. I hit the ice and rather than making the slight turn, I continued forward, careening headlong into the pile of snow.<br />
<br />
That was right outside of our first hour classroom's window. <br />
<br />
That we were supposed to have reported to 10 minutes earlier.<br />
<br />
<i>So, that was awesome.</i><br />
<br />
I should add that I drove a highly recognizable vehicle, so there was no mistaking who it was stuck in front of the school. You don't ride around in 1978 Buick Skylark in the mid 90s and go unnoticed.<br />
<br />
Oh, those were the days. When my biggest responsibility was getting myself to school on time. And despite the fact that I was completely incapable of doing so, not much came of it.<br />
<br />
So you can see why I am so proud of myself (and shocked) to be able to say that Chloe was not late to school one time. Perhaps there is hope that she will not be voted "Most Likely to be Late to Her Own Funeral" by her senior class.<br />
<br />
Like her mother was.<br />
<br />
It was a landslide.<br />
<br />
Oh, the memories.<br />
<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-64008445533649348832014-06-05T08:14:00.000-04:002014-06-05T08:14:31.888-04:00Every Pacifier Has Its ThornIt seemed like such a good idea when he was tiny... It was way better than being a HUMAN pacifier. But alas, at 4 months old, the tables have turned on me, and now the solution is officially the problem. I'm not a fan of crying it out, mostly because of all the crying. It never worked for Chloe, so I'm hesitant to put him through it. I think there is a time and a place for a battle of wills, and age 4 months, in the middle of the night is not it. I reserve Clash of the Titans for potty training and 3 year old tantrums, yo.<br />
<br />
I really don't even know how we got here. When he was teeny, it wasn't as necessary, but on occasion was helpful. Honestly, I was more concerned about his addiction to Bethel Music! He was always very good about falling asleep on his own. I never feed him to sleep, unless you count middle of the night feedings, which I do not. I guess it all started with naps. He consistently wakes up 45 minutes into a nap, and the pacifier has always helped him to immediately go right back to sleep. At some point, when I wasn't paying attention, this transferred to needing the pacifier every 45 minutes ALL NIGHT LONG. So basically, I'm about ready to join the circus. <br />
<br />
It's very possible that being a hippy this time around and not being as consistent with a schedule is what has created this situation. I was militant about preettyyy much everything with Chloe. She was not sleeping 12 hours by this point (4 months old) either, but I think she was only doing one nighttime feeding. Spence is too, which I think I would be fine with, if it wasn't for the 6 or more times that he needs his paci, in addition to the one nighttime feeding. Lord, deliver me. It's so much harder the second time around to be so diligent with the scheduling. Especially since the second time around is so much more enjoyable. There is less unknown and a greater understanding of the preciousness of it all! Not to mention, when you already have another child, there are other things to do! Places I need to go! Since I'm far from perfect and a horrible juggler - the baby's schedule is what has to suffer. He makes it easy to bend the rules too, because he is the happiest, most agreeable baby. Everyone makes comments about how quiet he is! <br />
<br />
Until 1 Am when the paci falls out. Then look out. The boy can blow.<br />
<br />
I'm trying to consider it pure joy, but in all honesty, I'm at my wits end. I think Daddy is going to get a turn this weekend. Maybe I will pitch a tent in the backyard.<br />
<br />
For those that know me well, you know that if I'm considering camping, in a TENT? There is a serious problem. Mayday! Houston! Do you read me????<br />
<br />
I know this too shall pass. I just hope I have a couple brown hairs left by that point. They are getting very few and far between. Regardless, I will continue to choose joy. Even when it's hard. And I can't see straight.<br />
<br />
But just in case you are ever convinced that I am withholding important intel that is vital to the well being of humankind? No need to involve Jack Bauer. Just wake me up every hour, all night long for a couple days. I'll tell you anything you want to know.<br />
<br />
<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-82134686347034401772014-06-03T19:58:00.003-04:002014-06-03T21:15:12.352-04:00Set your expectations low. Nope, lower than that.Hey, ya'll. Look who's back? Ta-Da! I had a baby while I was away. <br />
<br />
I'm not sure what it
is about having an infant that makes me want to blog, but here we are.
Maybe it gives the illusion of adult conversation. <br />
<br />
If
you don't know me for realsies, you would have no way of knowing that I
recently gave birth to the cutest boy on the planet. But I did. I basically haven't
slept more than 6 hours in a row in approximately 6 months. Praying that
changes soon. I have vowed to enjoy the baby stage this time. I've
been doing pretty good with that, but I'm not gonna lie. I'm stinkin'
tired. And there are times when I feel like I'm teetering on the edge
of a psychotic episode. So, if your baby is sleeping 12 hours at night, that's awesome. Just be really careful how you go about sharing that with me... I am happy for you, no doubt about that, but if you ask me how he's sleeping and I say, not so good... The next thing you say PROBABLY should not be, so he's not sleeping 12 hours?!?!? As if to imply that there is something wrong with me, or worse yet, my precious, perfect, insomniac baby. Unless you want your eye blackened, of course, than it's totally the right thing to say. So, yeah... Other than the fact that I may or may not be losing it? <i>Totally</i> enjoying it.<br />
<br />
Ahem. Moving on.<br />
<br />
I'm
hoping to get back to blogging semi regularly, but well - I think it
would be poor judgement on your part to hold your breath. I'll do my
best, though. I'm not sure what exactly I'll be writing about, but I
hope to include some depth, maybe some humor and I think we can
definitely plan on a heap load of inconsistency. I have full confidence
in my ability to provide that for you.<br />
<br />
You're welcome in advance.<br />
<br />
<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-34939542899370942872012-02-25T00:20:00.004-05:002012-02-25T01:29:08.597-05:00My Bible... And Hi! And An Update!Anyone remember when I wrote <a href="http://thetrystingplace.blogspot.com/2009/01/do-you-write-in-your-bible.html">this</a>? Anyone remember the last time I wrote anything?<br /><br />Yeah, me neither. Well, I wrote on my facebook tonight about not being tired, despite the fact that it was approaching midnight and I have class 2 hours from my house tomorrow at 9:30. That was over an hour ago.<br /><br />Yep, four sentences in and I've already digressed.<br /><br />I'm baaaaack....<br /><br />Wait. Is it digressing if you haven't even gotten started with what you were going to say in the first place? Alright. To the point.<br /><br />So anyway, if you didn't click the link, I wrote a blog post over three years ago, about writing in my Bible. I'm sure some consider it scandalous, but, well - I care a lot less about what some consider than I probably should. (Snark? check. I'm seriously back.)<br /><br />That poor Bible that I had been writing in for some time three years ago, is still going just about everywhere with me. I'm underlining considerably less, but mostly because I've already underlined most of it. :D But the cover? And the binding? Oh my, my... Not looking so good. I had decided that I was going to get a new one, but I can't find what I want. (A cute parallel featuring The Amplified and NIV. Doesn't exist. Or I'd own it.) Even as I searched for what I wanted, part of me knew that I wouldn't be able to part with my little NIV that has all manner of chicken scratch, underlining, highlighting and other miscellaneous notations that will mean next to nothing to future generations. So this week I had a bright idea and I'm so excited, I'm staying up to ALL HOURS of the night to blog about it, despite the fact that class starts in eight and half hours and I have to drive two hours to get there. Not smart, I know. But I tried to sleep. It didn't work. What are ya gonna do?<br /><br />So I came in to work the google and low and behold, what do I find? <a href="http://www.preservetheword.com/stitching.html">This</a>. A website for a company that will rebind my priceless Bible for the low low price of $90! Um, WOOT! I'm sure I'll get suckered into some of the bells and whistles, and it will be more than that, but this is just the most exciting news since... Hm, since I don't know when, because there ain't been much exciting new round these here parts. So. Yay! Just had to share. Which brought me back to Must Share. My blog! Remember, Rachel? You have a blog! <br /><br />Right! So Hi! How've ya'll been? I've missed you. If you are anyone, since truly - who reads a blog that no one writes on for stinkin' ever? I've thought about writing so much over the past... forstinkin'ever. Which brings me to the update portion of this blog post...<br /><br />So much has happened since I last typed a real actual blog post. (Had to scroll down to see what it even was and Oh. My. Word. HUMDINGER! And I can't believe how timely it was for me to read that right now! God is so faithful and I trust that I will not be anymore tired than normal tomorrow, because as per usual God has me up at this crazy hour for a REASON. Thank you, Father! If you have a second, or more like 15 minutes, scroll down and read the Feb 8, 2011 post.)<br /><br />So. A bullet list. Most likely incomplete. But here's what I've been up to....<br /><br />~ I got a job. A real one. Where you have to go and stuff. Favorite job ever. Part time. Super fun. (I've descended into fragments. Not that my grammar is anything to brag about. Um, about which to brag. Or something. Yes, I majored in Language Arts. Thanks for noticing. )<br />~I've been homeschooling Chloe for preschool. Big surprise, I'm not much better at that than teaching seventh grader's science. The plan is for this to be the first and last year of homeschooling. Thank you Jesus, glory, hallelujah, amen.<br />~I've been training to do prayer ministry. AKA training to walk out my destiny. I suppose that is a blog post all in itself, but for the sake of catch up, I'm training to do something that looks a little like counseling, a lot like discipleship, and is completely focused on hearing from God. The coolest thing about it is that my job will be to depend on God to do my job for me. Ha! Yes, please.<br />~What else? Honestly, I don't think there has been much else. I rarely get to see friends, I almost never see the majority of my family. God asked me to shut down almost all social involvement in an effort to stay sane during this training phase. I'm thankful that this is a season, and praying that it doesn't last long.<br /><br />I'm also praying I'll be back to these parts sooner than later. <br /><br /><br />This? <br /><br />Felt awesome.<br /><br />Thanks for reading my silliness.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-55378592243688834962011-11-02T22:59:00.002-04:002011-11-02T23:23:08.596-04:00Nelson's Cyclopedic Index: The Best Bible Subject Index Ever<h3 class="post-title entry-title"> </h3> <div class="post-header"> </div> <div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-8673879332800623049">I received a complimentary copy of the Nelson's Biblical Cyclopedic Index: The Best Bible Subject Index Ever, in exchange for my honest review.<br /><br />I love books. I really love small books. And books about books? Oh, yeah. This is a reference book, and it is a very helpful tool for Bible study. I mention that it's small. Why does that matter? Well, you may know of some of the other Biblical reference books and well, they are "exhaustive" in more ways than one. So to have a reference to over 8,000 subjects, names, places, concepts, etc. all contained within a book just slightly bigger than a standard paperback is something to mention! I am so excited to have this compact, yet very comprehensive subject index on my shelf. I tend to carry my Bible around with me, and this study tool may very well become a a permanent resident of my book bag, as well.<br /><br />In addition to being the "best Bible Subject Index Ever", it also contains hundreds of word studies and thousands of definitions. This would be a great tool for a student, teacher or anyone who may need to find specifics in the Bible. I'm definitely not a scholar, but I find this reference to be very easy to use and understand. This book would be a great gift for anyone that reads the Bible on any level. I highly recommend it! <br /><br />Thank you Thomas Nelson and the BookSneeze Program for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest review. </div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-43110030480631477582011-02-10T12:07:00.002-05:002011-02-10T12:24:39.416-05:00Nemrey BersesAt our last MOPS meeting, our speaker mentioned that she started her kids working on Scripture memory at age 2 -3. I'm still trying to figure out why I hadn't already started this, but we have been hard at work ever since.<br /><br />For those of you that didn't already know, Chloe is a genius. <br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I'm in no way biased.</span><br /><br />Seriously, though. She is doing an incredible job of "nemorizing berses" at the speed of light. We started with Philippians 4:5 "Let your gentleness be evident to all; The Lord is near." Or - "Let your genlemess be ebident to all: The Lord is near." - if you read the Chloe version. I can hardly stand the cuteness of it all. I was floored by how quickly she picked up on it. <br /><br />Our next verse (berse) was Ephesians 6:1 "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right." I didn't even realize she knew this one until the other day when she was <span style="font-style: italic;">supposed</span> to be taking a nap, but she was actually reciting her berses to her stuffed animals. I heard her say "6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right." I couldn't even believe it. I think that was Tuesday and we had just started that one on Sunday. We may have worked on it 5 times. <br /><br />Next up are:<br /><br />Genesis 1:1 "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth."<br /><br />and<br /><br />Philippians 2:14 "Do everything without complaining or arguing." <br /><br />I love that I am learning these verses, too! Most of these I would say I knew, but I wouldn't be able to tell you where they were without the help of Biblegateway.com or leafing through my Bible for 5 minutes.<br /><br />Anyone have any suggestions for great verses for kids to learn?Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-16162165957197203922011-02-08T08:35:00.002-05:002011-02-08T08:53:34.410-05:00A Blast From The PastI was looking for something on my old (OLD) blog yesterday. I came across my post from 4 years ago today. If ever I had a reason to be THANKFUL for where I am, this would be it. I also find it incredibly interesting how some things are so hard wired into you that years later you still struggle. Even after a post like this - where it seems like you FINALLY get it. Another funny thing: I just redid the Beth Moore study that I mentioned in here. Finished it in November.<br /><br />Enjoy this blast from the past...<br /><br />Let me just hang it all out there... Here's what started it all, a quote from my incredible Beth Moore study called "Living Beyond Yourself: Exploring the Fruit of the Spirit"<br /><br />"Christ has a purpose in the pain you've suffered or He never would have allowed it. Until you surrender to His purpose in the specific matter at hand, He cannot work it for your good. Do you know what that means? It all happened in vain - for absolutely nothing."<br /><br />The moral of the story is: If I don't surrender and do what I'm supposed to do, where I am supposed to do it, with the attitude I should be doing it with, THIS COULD ALL BE FOR NOTHING! Hello. Wake up call.<br /><br /><br />This was so eye opening for me. What a revelation from the Lord. He really helped clue me in on a few things.<br /><br />1. Though I have accepted that I have to stay where He put me, at least for this year (and in my heart , especially now, I know indefinitely...) I had decided I wasn't going to like it and I was going to PRAY that I be laid off or that God get me out of there one way or the other. The point? I was not surrendered. I didn't think of it as being mad at God for having me where I did not want to be, but I most certainly had an "I'll do it, but I absolutely won't like it" attitude. How I thought I was surrendered, I'm not sure. I had just told Em Friday night that I have never so badly wished I could be outside of God's will. Why? Because I know that that is exactly where I am, I just don't (didn't) want to be there. Scary... The only thing scarier than realizing I am not surrendered to my Lord, is realizing that if I hadn't realized this fact, I could have suffered through this whole year FOR ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. I can't believe that this whole time I have been blocking God's plan to prosper me (and potentially hundreds of other people) with my negativity and all around rotten attitude. This is alarming to me.<br /><br />***Just so you don't think I'm a complete moron, (though you have every right to, as I've been acting like one for - oh... 5 months now...) I knew most of the things I'm about to list, in theory. When the coin really goes down into the slot and you GET IT, it makes a big big difference. That's what happened this weekend, cha-ching. ***<br /><br />2. I realized, (again, hopefully this time for keeps) that I may not be rewarded with seeing the fruit of my labor. Hello? Especially if I were to continue on the ridiculous path I was on. It is not up to me to decide if I am making a difference. It is not my call to say "I can't help people who do not want to be helped." or "These problems are too big for me, I can't do it by myself." Now - mind you, I don't mean that I didn't think God was big enough or anything like that, it's just so many times I feel like a salmon swimming upstream, at school. People who are supposed to be helping are hindering. People who are supposed to be supporting me, appear to lay awake at night thinking of ways to make one of the hardest jobs ever, even harder. The point? I take my marching orders from the One who put me there, and I need to prioritize according to my accountability to Him, not any man. I need to get over wanting my boss to "like me", "approve of me", or even just quit being a jerk. I need to learn to control what I can control, which is me and how I react and interact with the people that God has put in my path. I'm so disappointed with how I have used my influence, and how I have lost the ground I gained with people last year. Relationships that I had fostered last year have suffered, because I have stayed physically, but emotionally and spiritually, I've checked out.... Wait - did I ever even check in? God's grace is sufficient, and I plan to take my second chance VERY seriously.<br /><br />3. Happiness is based on circumstances. It's okay to not be in love with your circumstances. It is even okay to be unhappy with your circumstances and situations. Sad, frustrated, upset, disappointed, etc... HOWEVER - My joy is in the Lord, who DOES NOT CHANGE. Therefore, if the joy of the Lord is my strength, then that joy should remain regardless of sadness, frustration, disappointment or being upset with my current circumstances which are always TEMPORARY. He gives and takes away, but my heart will choose to say - Lord blessed be your name. I KNOW this. I have sung it, thought it and grasp it intellectually. I have seriously FAILED to live it. Oh, for shame.<br /><br />4. Love and Hate are choices to be made. Effective yesterday I LOVE MY BUICK!!! Instead of choosing negativity I am choosing to see the sunny side. THERE IS ALWAYS A SUNNY SIDE. It is your, our, and most definitely my choice to see the sunny side. Effective immediately, I will begin again to be intentional about looking for the sunny side of all things. I hadn't even realized how negative I had become. I had made so much progress in this area of my life, with a little help from my friends. I realized one of the main differences between last year and this year is the amount of time I have spent with godly truth telling women. Last year, I spent a lot of time either talking to or being with Emily and Julie. They were both instrumental in helping me to realize my level of negativity. It was so ingrained in my personality, routine, sense of humor. I never even realized how glass half empty I was. I (WE -Jesus, Julie, Emily and myself) really turned it around last year, but what do you know? Here I sit in the mud again. Prodigal me.<br /><br />All of this to say -<br /><br />5. I now remember why God has me where I am. I also remember that last year I learned that being in easy circumstances does not foster growth. The best thing about last year, (which was HARD, but compared to this year it was a cake walk) was how close I grew to the Lord. It was the best experience because it taught me what dependence on the Lord really was. Don't ask me where all that went this year. In some respects, I feel like a failure. I'm just thankful that God showed me the error of my ways, before the year was gone and there was no time for redemption. So, here starts the journey back across the mountain. Again, Prodigal me. (If you don't understand my reference to the song Prodigal Me, go back to a post that I wrote almost 1 year ago today. I'm sort of like Rain Man when it comes to dates, and I remembered a serious revelation I had last year around the annivesary of Jessie's death, today, which was brought on by the song Prodigal Me. The lyrics are listed in my 2-7-06 post.)<br /><br />Alright already - ACTION STEPS<br /><br />How, then, do I remember on a daily basis what's up?<br /><br />1. Re-implement my Bible memory system. "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11 I used to meditate on a verse while getting ready in the morning, and while driving to school in a very safe manner. A perfect example of why this is necessary is, I couldn't remember the reference for this verse. I've known the verse since I was 10 but I couldn't find it. Exactly my point.<br /><br />2. In addition to my Bible memory, I am also starting a little spiral bound index card booklet of things to REMEMBER. You know, those things that you highlight and write hallelujah and Amen, sister - preach it!! next to in the awesome books you read? Well - rather than just having that for a moment when I'm reading, doing a study, talking with a friend who often says stuff that makes me want to have a go-go gadget tape recorder, or listening to a message, now I will write these statements of TRUTH that I want to remember into my handy dandy notebook, and when I think what was that thing that Joyce Meyer, or Steve Andrews or Julie or one of the Emilys said? I can look in my handy dandy notebook, get my head back on straight and go on about my business. I'm excited about this one.<br /><br />3. My final goal, for the moment, is to start a prayer sticky note reminder system. There are so many people that I want to pray for on a daily basis, and there are a lot of monotonous things that I do every day. My hope is that I will get in the habit of praying for certain people when I am doing certain things each day. Praying for my dad when I'm brushing my teeth. Praying for my mom when I'm putting on my make up, etc... It worked well the time I put a sticky note on the inside door of my kitchen cabinet. I prayed for that person every time I got in there. The challenge? Not causing a cluttery annoying mess of stick notes. Most of my routine stuff is done in my own room, so hopefully I can use my own bathroom, my computer and other often frequented places that will not subject Frank to this.<br /><br />And just to put blogger to the ultimate test.... Here is the post I referenced from 2.7.06. This is what I was actually looking for last night when I found the above post. If you haven't already gone blind, keep reading.... :)<br /><br /><p>I am very much looking forward to church tomorrow... I feel so incredibly under attack. I think my enemy knows that I can't be taken down easily, so he is firing at me from every angle. Pray for me please.</p> <p>Today is the 4 year anniversary of Jessie's accident. In a lot of ways it doesn't seem like 4 years could possibly have passed already, but then on the other hand it seems like it has been light years... It's amazing to fathom what the Lord has done in me in that time. It was today, 4 years ago that I looked up, for the first time in a long time. For the majority of these past four years, as I have made my slow trek back to the feet of Jesus, I have come from a heart of guilt and shame over the lost years. Within the last week or so, the Lord has been showing me (though He has probably been trying to show me all along) that none of our "lost time" matters to Him. It wasn't until I was really able to listen to the lyrics of "Prodigal Me" by Shane Barnard that I got it.</p><p><br /></p><p>Here's the video. Start it playing and then read these lyrics. And prepare for chicken skin. (Aka gooseflesh, or goosebumps... :) )</p><p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/SW59Ghx23Qs" frameborder="0" height="390" width="480"></iframe><br /></p> <p> </p> <p><b><span style="font-size:2px;">prodigal me </span></b><span><br />by shane barnard </span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"> <p><br />what have i done to get me here?<br />unraveled and undone, i need my father<br />what have i done? i've followed my feet to nowhere<br />now i'm here! as i ran, i can run no more<br />prodigal me<br /><br />the mountains to the west, i know they laugh at me<br />they know i'm scared to cross and leave this life i lead<br />oh my pride! i give you up a barter for my freedom<br />what will they think as i come stumbling down to join their lives?<br /><br />i need to cross this mountain and find my way home<br />there is no greater fortune, rescue me<br />oh unmerciful divide be merciful tonight<br />show me the other side<br />prodigal me<br /><br />the mountains to the east, they've swallowed my beloved<br />this house completely incomplete, where is my mortar?<br />where did he go? he followed his feet to nowhere<br /><em>please come home! <span style="font-weight: bold;">you've done me no wrong</span><br />each evening i look down that road<br />i hope and i wait for you<br />and my servants they look down that road<br />we watch and we pray for you<br /></em>master, master, who's that man stumbling down that road?<br />could it be the one? could it be? could it be?<br />master, master, it's Your son<br />coming home to join our lives!<br /><br />i'm looking down this mountain, i see my way home<br />there is no greater fortune, i believe!<br />oh unmerciful divide you laugh at me no more<br />oh i've reached the other side!<br />prodigal me<br /><br />could i be the one? could i be? could i be?<br />Father, Father, we're Your sons<br />coming home to join Your life<br /><br /><strong><em>we've finally crossed this mountain, and found our way home<br />there is no greater fortune than Jesus<br />oh how merciful is our God who gave His only Son!<br />oh we worship You tonight!</em></strong></p><p><strong><em><span style="font-weight: normal;">(Disclaimer - not their best performance but this is OLD!)</span><br /></em></strong></p> <p>The following is someone's commentary on the Parable of the Prodigal Son and it beautiful illustrates what the Lord has been revealing to me through the song.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em><span style="font-size:85%;">But then look at what happens when he returns to his father, humbled, no longer feeling he had the right to be given anything, and with the intent of working for him. He is not driven away because of his previous actions and behavior....the father knew and was so overjoyed at his return he didn't even wait for his son to get all the way back...he ran out and met him! Not only did he meet him with joy, he gave him the best of what he had. The best clothes, the best food, and celebrated his return. Our Father is always there for us. <u>He will not deny us if we come to Him, and He will not shame us for our past actions when we do.</u> Like in the story, He knows we're coming, and is prepared and isn't thinking of our past, <u>just rejoicing for our future. </u></span><br /></em></strong></p> <p>What an amazing God we serve...</p><p><br /></p><p>If you made it this far, I hope this blessed you!<br /></p></span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-22255158578188220352011-02-07T16:45:00.002-05:002011-02-07T17:45:42.560-05:00An Anniversary, Of SortsToday, as I flipped to the right page in my devotional book, I realized that today is that day. That day that I thought about a lot in January, hoping that a depression wouldn't threaten when it got here. <br /><br />It's been nine years.<br /><br />Nine years, since my best friend and her five month old son lost their lives, as a result of a car accident.<br /><br />It's been eleven years since I've heard her voice. Unless you count the tape I have of us singing (badly) when we were kids. Or the time several years ago when her sister played me a voice mail that Jessie had left for her before her accident.<br /><br />Which I don't.<br /><br />Eight to ten years ago, I would have said that we had grown apart and that distance was the main reason we hadn't spoken in so long. We did live about an hour away from each other, and life had taken us down very different paths. Well,<span style="font-style: italic;"> my choices</span> had, if I'm going to be honest.<br /><br />The choices I had been making were not good ones and by the time she passed away, I hadn't darkened the door of church in seven years. When I think about some of the ways I passed my time in the two years that I <span style="font-style: italic;">could have</span> been spending time with her, I kinda want to shake the Rachel that made those choices. Thankfully, she slowly began to die the same day that Jessie did.<br /><br />Now that I've firmly re-established my relationship with God, what made us such great friends to begin with, it's easier to admit the truth. The reason we weren't friends during that two year period was sin.<span style="font-style: italic;"> My sin.</span> Sin separates us from God, but it can also separate us from those who love Him. Even if they love us, too. Jessie never harassed me about my all-star idiocy. She was smart enough to know what effect that would have had. I know she was praying for me though... After she died, Frank's mom recounted a conversation that she'd had with Jessie on our wedding day. My mother-in-law was asking Jessie what they were going to do about us not being in church. Jessie said, "Don't worry. They'll come back." The faith that she had in me brings me to tears every time I recount it. The irony of what would bring me back gives me chills.<br /><br />I remember sitting on the steps in a deserted hallway in the hospital, the day of the accident and thinking, did I cause this? Is her death my fault? Is this my punishment for wandering away? <br /><br />Obviously, I hadn't read the New Testament in awhile, either. <br /><br />I'm so incredibly thankful that tragedy led me to Jesus instead of away from Him. Despite my messed up theology on the stairs, I chose to run to Him. To slowly but surely find my way back to the Rachel that was best friends with Jessie. The one who loved God more than anything else. <br /><br />Today, I'm choosing to think of this as the anniversary of the start of my prodi-Gal journey home, instead of one of the worst days of my life.<br /><br />Even though it's both.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-816496367639688032011-02-03T13:20:00.003-05:002011-02-04T09:51:05.589-05:00Now That's DeepFor the first time in MY LIFE, I've been on a diet for an entire month.<br /><br />Let's all take a moment, shall we?<br /><br />When I was pregnant, Frank went on the South Beach Diet. He lost 40 lbs, while I gained almost that much! Not nice. I had a great excuse at that time to skip it, but I always knew I'd like to try it someday. Well - after enjoying the effects of nursing for a year, I slowly began to put on weight. There was no sign that it was stopping, so I decided I had better do it.<br /><br />I started on January 3rd. Sadly, it was my sister's 18th birthday - so the first thing I burned up on the alter of dieting was birthday cake. Ouch. That one hurt.<br /><br />Aside from that, it was really much easier than I expected to completely give up sugar, COLD TURKEY. I seriously thought I was addicted and truly thought it would be an absolute nightmare. Nope. What I've learned along the way is that I wasn't doing nearly as badly as I thought. I've also been reminded that I can do ANYTHING that I put my mind to. I just hadn't put my mind to any self-control where eating was concerned for quite some time.<br /><br />Sadly, I didn't lose as much as I'd hoped. Phase 1 promises a loss of 8-13 lbs, and I lost 3 or 4. Even now, a month later, I still haven't hit 8 lbs. Boo. The good news is - I'm into the pants that I wanted to be in - and I thought I'd need to lose 12 lbs to get there. So, woot for that! :)<br /><br />For phase 2, you are allowed to start adding grains back in. We have decided to literally make a lifestyle change where grains are concerned. I'm trying really hard to convince my intestines that this is for the best, however, they are a tough sell. Whole grains, um, cause me some, um, issues. Yeeeeaaaah. Eating an enormous salad everyday for close to 3 weeks also wreaked havoc on the old digestor, too. Yikes. Note to self. Moderation. In all things. Even salad. Ok.<br /><br />I whine about not losing weight, but the truth of the matter is this diet was more about self-control and dying to self than anything else. I figure if I can't even discipline myself where sugar and other poor eating habits are concerned, how do I expect to discipline myself spiritually. <br /><br />SO.<br /><br />Since that was so easy, I'm now quitting facebook. Eek. It has been 3 full days, and I remember this being a lot easier the last time I did it. Apparently, my addiction has intensified. Good to know.<br /><br />I was planning to give up facebook for Lent, but then we were issued a challenge to fast and pray at our last women's meeting and I knew that I needed to give up facebook. SO.... It is going to be very close to 3 months. Yikes. I'm going to try not to think about that right now.<br /><br />The good news is in place of facebook - my plan is to read and study God's Word more, and pray for the people in my life that need miracles. There are a lot of them. It's so worth it. Even if I am dying to know what people I never even talk to are up to. Lord, give me strength.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-35277890218487438082010-12-27T22:01:00.005-05:002010-12-27T23:14:33.385-05:00Off The Deep End....Hi ya'll. How is everybody? Long time no blog, I know. I've been very busy being very busy. I've also been in kind of a funk, but I'm pretty sure that's over. Christmas was fab. How 'bout you?<br /><br />So, I've been seeking God on what 2011 is going to be about and I'm pretty excited about the direction He is pointing me. By excited, I mean, 90% excited and 10% scured.<br /><br />I've been sensing for awhile that God wants the theme of 2011 to be depth. Every song I hear, every book I read, every where I turn, I keep hearing <span style="font-weight: bold;">deep</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">depth</span>. I won't even begin to pretend that I really know where He is going with it, but I'll tell you this: I know it's gonna be good.<br /><br />I know our relationship is going to go <span style="font-weight: bold;">deeper</span>. (My relationship with God, not you dearest blog readers. reader?) I am learning a lot and I hope He will help me apply, understand and put it all into consistent practice.<br /><br />I am finally in a place where I am fostering <span style="font-weight: bold;">deep</span> friendships again. After I had my daughter, many of my friendships changed and some of them even ceased all together. So sad for me. About two years ago, God told me He had some new friends lined up and well, wow. He is blowing my mind. I am very much a "<span style="font-weight: bold;">deep</span> calls to <span style="font-weight: bold;">deep</span>" sort of person, especially where friendship is concerned. God has brought multiple people into my life that fit the bill for that type of friendship, and let me just tell you.... I am excited.<br /><br />The next element of the year of <span style="font-weight: bold;">depth</span> is less exciting. I'm getting the sense that God wants to do some heart surgery on me this year. I understand "dying to self" as a theory, but I can't say I am truly living the life Paul describes. There are many selfish layers that need to be peeled off, and well.... Yikes. I know it's one of the main road blocks to a <span style="font-weight: bold;">deeper</span> maturity that God is calling me to, so... here goes nothin'.<br /><br />Last year, (probably Sept. of '09) I started reading in Genesis and really wanted to make it through the entire Bible by the end of 2010. I did not. I'm not ashamed of myself, though. I read more of the Bible this year than I ever have in any other year. I read the majority of the New Testament, and I made it to I Chronicles in the Old. I will keep on keepin' on with that, but I think this year - I want to dig<span style="font-weight: bold;"> deeper</span>, rather than focusing on getting through all of it. I want to start studying, as I feel led, and I want God to begin to show me His heart where many of my questions are. I could easily go read a book on different issues that I don't understand, but then I would just be getting some other "man's" interpretation of Scripture, and I'd really rather hear what God has to say to me about certain things. I have no idea what I'll even study, but I trust God has a plan and that He'll issue the memo when He sees fit. ;)<br /><br />I also hope to explore some sort of mentor relationship. I'm hoping to find two or more older women in the faith that can be a sounding board and source of encouragement. I know that I know that I know that I need strong women to guide me in this journey. I will not attempt to be a lone ranger!! Again - I have no clue what it will look like, but I believe God has it all planned out, and when it's my turn to know, I will.<br /><br />There are multiple verses that I've been pondering, some of them for more than a year. I love how God plants a seed and later (sometimes years), Shazam! - He shows you how it all ties together.<br /><br />I have written down Philippians 1:9-11 multiple times in the past couple of years. (I've been reading through my old journals...) I think it might be THE verse for this year.<br /><br />Philippians 1:9-11 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and <span style="font-weight: bold;">depth</span> of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.<br /><br />I memorized Ephesians 3:16-19about 5 years ago. I wish I could say that I "get it". But I know for a fact that I don't. I hope that this time next year, I have a completely different understanding when I read these words:<br /><br />I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and <span style="font-weight: bold;">deep</span> is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.<br /><br />Yeah - maybe that is THE verse...<br /><br />So. I hope to get a chance to share an occasional nugget with you, but I definitely think my blogging days are mostly behind me. Time is such a commodity these days, and I hear it gets worse the older you get. My commitment to a year of<span style="font-weight: bold;"> depth</span> (which is hopefully the year that changes EVERYTHING) by definition doesn't allow for a lot of blogging. Or facebooking. But don't tell my alter ego who thrives on being told she is funny. She is not going to take that news well...<br /><br />Until we meet again, consider His <span style="font-weight: bold;">deep</span> love for you. It's a game changer. But only if you let it be. I've decided I will.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-86738793328006230492010-12-14T21:18:00.004-05:002010-12-14T21:46:44.546-05:00A Christmas Prayer, By Amy Parker Illustrated by Marijan RamljakI am excited to recommend A Christmas Prayer, by Amy Parker, illustrated by Marijan Ramlja. It is an absolutely delightful children's Christmas story. It is perfect for young toddlers and even older children. The melodic rhyming will keep even the youngest ones engaged in the story. It focuses on each main character of the Christmas story, Gabriel, Mary, Joseph, Jesus, the Shepherds, etc., and beautifully and simply tells the Christmas story through the eyes of gratitude. Each page has a simple short verse and it ends with a prayer thanking God for the character referenced on that page. It is so refreshing and sweet. The illustrations are also very simple (almost chalk like) and appealing to young children. This is the sort of book I would love to give as a gift. I wish I could afford to buy it for all of my daughter's little friends. I look forward to many nights this month reading this story before bed. It will be a new favorite, I'm sure.<br /><br />Thank you Thomas Nelson and the BookSneeze Program for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest review.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-5962546385097600032010-09-28T19:24:00.002-04:002010-09-28T19:39:18.627-04:00It's ALIVE.....Or, <span style="font-style: italic;">I'm</span> alive, as it were. In the words of Bob Wiley:<br /><br /> <span style="font-style: italic;">Barely.</span><br /><br />It seems I may have over committed a bit this fall. Except that I have every intention to continue with everything I signed up for until May. Awesome.<br /><br />Speaking of alive... My heart is actually pumping at a decent clip for the first time in weeks. I fell off the running wagon, and didn't have the gumption to chase after it and climb back on. Not that I would have time to run anyway, but if they decide to ditch daylight savings in exchange for adding three hours to our day, I might just be able to wedge it in somewhere.<br /><br />Looks like the winter exercise regime will consist of turbo worship with Chloe. David Crowder is the sound track. There's lots of jumping and clapping, and well - the baptists would just have a fit. I may be in the market for a bladder lift or whatever they do for you when jumping and sneezing is problematic. Thank you, Eve.<br /><br />So. Between not running, working, prayer ministry class, Bible study, MOPS, and the 17 other things I've volunteered to participate in (and bring baked goods to), the bloggy blog is probably going to be parked on the back burner. Sad but true.<br /><br />Hopefully, I'll at least be around occasionally. Gotta vent the funny somewhere.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-75261772999745385862010-09-17T13:53:00.003-04:002010-09-17T13:57:19.283-04:00Busy As a BeeI have so much going on. All good stuff, but it still leaves me feeling like there isn't time for extra things.<br /><br />Like blogging. <br /><br />That makes me sad.<br /><br />Be back when I get a free minute.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-51123642489781849272010-09-13T06:10:00.000-04:002010-09-12T23:10:55.240-04:00Fruit of Righteousness<div>I've been reading through my prayer journal and two days in a row I've been struck by a passage of scripture I felt God wanted me to focus on for this year. Philippians (one of my favorite books, by the way...) 1:9-11 says ~</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i>And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, </i></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i>so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, </i></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i>filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.</i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div>What stands out to me in this passage is what results from the abounding love. We are filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ. We don't produce the fruit ourselves. We are filled with it. It's not our efforts, but what Christ can do. It's always about Jesus, and never about ourselves. How different would your life be, if you lived according to that? <i>Mine would be unrecognizable</i>. Here's hoping no one knows who the heck I am, sooner than later.</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-36400082055812012582010-09-10T03:09:00.000-04:002010-09-10T07:25:59.952-04:00One Hand, Two Hands By Max Lucado, Illustrated By Gaby HansenOne Hand, Two Hands by Max Lucado is a precious children's story about how we can help others with our hands. It is illustrated by Gaby Hansen and she has added so much to the story through her whimsically detailed pages! Each page has beautiful, colorful pictures that would capture the attention of any child. This book is a delightful bedtime story, just perfect for very young children who are in the process of learning about how to use their hands. The message of using our hands as a blessing to our family and friends will be well received by families of all kinds.<div><br /></div><div>My two year old daughter and I loved it. It is perfectly age appropriate for her and ties in quite well with what we have been learning and doing around our home. She connected well with the lesson of the book and I would recommend it to anyone with small children. This one is a keeper! It will be on our book shelf for years to come!</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; line-height: 20px; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;font-size:x-small;" >Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></i></span></span></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-49744064005213634592010-09-08T21:21:00.003-04:002010-09-09T10:29:52.138-04:00Legitimate Work From Home JobsThey're out there, yo. You just gotta find 'em.<br /><br />I knew they were out there. I knew of a couple different people who had them. I just wasn't sure how to find them. The internet... Well, the internet is a peach - but there are many a rotten spot. Have you ever googled work from home? Yeah... Don't bother. Scammy McScamster is busy as a bee flooding the internet with stuff where you pay him to work from home. Hi. I <span style="font-style: italic;">need</span> money - I'm not going to pay<span style="font-style: italic;"> you</span> money. Duh.<br /><br />So I was lamenting on facebook one day about wanting a work from home job. One of my childhood best friend's dad pointed me <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://clarkhoward.com/topics/workathome_help.html#framesize_190#framesize_190">here</a>. And I was shocked at the number of options. Most of them don't work for me at the moment, but it was very encouraging to see that the opportunities are there. The whole "quiet work environment" is sort of a deal breaker for me... Pesky two year old. ;)<br /><br />I had decided that I really wanted to get serious about blogging, but well - that is a big time investment with no compensation... I'm willing to invest, but mama needs a new pair of shoes today! Interestingly enough, it was in my research for blogging that I came across <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://christianpf.com/">this website</a>. He is quite the smarty pants where blogging is concerned, and I saw he had <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://christianpf.com/legitimate-work-from-home-jobs/">a link to work from home opportunities</a>. CLICK! And that is where I found <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://www.leapforceathome.com/qrp/public/home">this company</a>.<br /><br />(PS - While I was trying to find all the links, I came across <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://www.entrepreneur.com/startingabusiness/businessideas/article71516.html">this article</a>, too. Very helpful.)<br /><br />I have been hesitant to say a lot for numerous reasons. The biggest being that they have a confidentiality policy and I can't remember what all I promised I wouldn't share... :/ Oops. So - I will direct most questions to their website.<br /><br />I will say this. The test? Was HARD. It's not for sissies. Not that I'm calling ya'll sissies, but if the shoes fits, don't waste your time. I have easily invested 30 hours into studying and taking the test. That doesn't include time spent updating my resume, which I did for the sole purpose of applying for this job. I kind of had all my eggs in this basket. And you can only take it once. If you fail, well - so long sucker. No pressure or anything...<br /><br />I had been praying for a specific type of opportunity. I had been praying specifically for the what the when and the how. It is very apparent to me that this is the answer to more than 8 months worth of prayer. Isn't God awesome?<br /><br />And let me just say - if I've ever been patient where waiting on God is concerned, it has been here. Not because I've got it all together and have unwavering faith, either. Because I didn't want a stinkin' job.<br /><br />As only God can do, He has slowly changed my heart in this area. At the end of last year, I began thinking that it might be time to start trying to find something. I didn't want to do this, and I refused to do that, and it had better not entail X, Y or Z... But as long as it fit nicely into the box I had dreamed up, - Sure! I'd get a job. Over the course of the next several months, that changed into a desire to do whatever it takes, as long as I was certain it was from God. It's cool how it took that journey, with a long stop in Surrenderville, to get me to the place where I am now. With a job that fits the exact specifications I originally had, even though I had finally opened my mind to whatever God wanted for me. Kinda reminds me of <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://thetrystingplace.blogspot.com/2008/11/surrender.html">this</a>. Oh when, when will I learn?<br /><br />It is my prayer that one day (soon would be awesome) when God says, "Do you trust me?" I have an affirmative answer spouting off my lips before He even gets the whole question out. Not there yet. ;)<br /><br />So, back to the job. This is the<a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://www.leapforceathome.com/qrp/public/job/1;jsessionid=2C5B804895AFE75BDC1D3A1D02A70AAE.lf-prod-02-2209"> job description</a>. If you have mostly no idea what they're talking about, then you are just like I was when I first read it. 30 hours later, I'm confident that I can do it. Well, confident might not be the most accurate word, but I will get there. Did I mention that the test was HARD? My Word. I think it might be their intention to weed out the riff raff with the long and arduous application process. I'm sure it works.<br /><br />Here's why it appealed to me:<br /><br />There are no set times I'll have to work. I will be able to work late nights, very early mornings, or days when Frank is here and can take care of Chloe.<br /><br />The pay. I know that ya'll want to know how much. That I <span style="font-weight: bold;">know</span> I'm not supposed to share, so I'll just say this. In my opinion, it will be worth the efforts I've put forth. I am confident that I could not find a flexible part time position around these depressed parts for <span style="font-style: italic;">anywhere near</span> the coin they are going to pay me. If you decide to apply, that information is given to you before you have to give birth. And by that I mean take that crazy test. :)<br /><br />A few more things... This company is looking for highly educated people. I also think my past (non-teaching) experience really impressed them. Specifically, the year I spent as a Business Systems Analyst. (Oh, to have that pay check again.) If this particular company doesn't work for you, do some serious searching and you just might find the perfect work from home opportunity!<br /><br />There you go. That's what I've been up to. Happy? ;)Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-612400757396352907.post-2339004555459951222010-09-08T10:37:00.000-04:002010-09-08T21:21:33.649-04:00WFMW - Freezing GarbageEver come home and think - Wow, there is a rotting carcass in my house. Awesome. -? Well, the real question is - what on earth is in the garbage? Meat wrappers (especially chicken, yuck) make for some very stinky garbage.<br /><br />Here's what works for me. When I make chicken or anything else that might be especially stinky, I put the waste into a plastic grocery bag and pop it in the freezer. On garbage day (when I remember), I put it in the trash. No more stinky garbage!<br /><br />Now, I should clarify. I have two deep freezers along with the one attached to the fridge. I can imagine that some people might not have lots of room, but if you do - give it a try!<br /><br />For more great tips, check out Works For Me Wednesday at <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://wearethatfamily.com/2010/09/wfmw-decorating-with-kids-art-update/">We Are That Family</a>.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14738301527831763073noreply@blogger.com1