Dec. 16, 2009 - Countries of the world I've been to.
I'm carrying on the theme of pointless blogging and posting another map. This time it is of all the countries of the world I have been to. 
Not as impressive as the last map but still not bad for a little girl from New Jersey, huh? LOL!
So, where have you been? And Shani, I would LOVE to add Arizona to the map! I'm kind of hoping that when you move it will be one of the states that I've already managed - that way there is a greater chance of getting there next time we fly in! 
Gotta go, cookies to bake!
visited 13 states (5.77%)
Create your own visited map of The World
December 15, 2009 - Feeling much better today.
I'm doing much better today than my last post. 
I didn't get to sleep in too much today, only about 20 minutes, but it was nice. Then my schedule was just thrown out the window. 
There were some things I needed to talk to Sarah about, teenage girl things. Nothing major at first, but the conversation ended up being about 2 hours long. 
It was well needed, and worth it, but of course that put our day behind two hours. Oh well. I just kept moving through the day, not worrying about the time. I didn't have anywhere to go, the kids knew the work they had to do, and I still got to rest a bit.
Since I didn't have to go anywhere, I decided to make a meatloaf dinner. By the time the afternoon came around, I really didn't want to make the dinner. I was tired, didn't want to have to work, or take the time to clean up after working with the meat. But since it was already defrosted, I did it. And you know what, I had a great time. Once I started working, didn't feel rushed because I just walked in or anything like that, it was fun. I ended up really making a nice spread. Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, corn, salad, shredded some cheese for the salad (something I don't normally do) and sliced some green onions for Paul's salad, because I know he likes them (again something I don't normally do). I set the table, had everything ready for when Paul got cleaned up, and we all sat down to a lovely meal. Not rushed, not thrown together, but a planned out, full meal. It was so nice. And I said something to Paul about, "See what happens when I'm home." To which he said, "I like it when you are home."
Though there are things I need to do, I'm going to try and look at my schedule a bit and see if there is anyway to combine some of the things I do, so I'm only out 1 or 2 days a week, so I can make more meals like this. Because for some reason, if I have to rush in at 2:00 or 3:00 and get dinner started by 3:30 or 4:00, I feel so rushed. I just feel overwhelmed. I know part of it is my raw meat/germ thing, and I don't like to think of all the cleaning I have to do after working with the meat. (Though let me say the Lord is really bringing me through that fear, and I am blessed by how much He has shown me and I continue to learn to trust in Him more than my cleaning. 
). So anyway, when I'm just home all day, don't have to think about, "Ok if I leave at this time, get home at this time, get school finished, get dinner started etc...", I do much better with dinner. So that is going to be my goal for next year. See if I can go out only 2 days a week, instead of running out almost every day like I feel I have been.
So I wanted to give you a more 'happy' post than my last one. My family and I have full bellies and enjoyed a nice meal together. Now it's time to have our devotion time (didn't get it in this morning) then watch the movie Up for the first time. Plus I'm trying to finish crocheting a scarf I'm making for Sarah for Christmas (shhhhh it's a surprise 
). Hope you have a blessed night.
Dec. 15, 2009 - Gentle Snowfall
And yes, we do have another snowsquall warning.... but today the snow has been falling steadily with everything from huge flakes to small ones. Right now it is coming almost straight down, and it looks so very pretty!
A lot of last week's snow actually melted, with temperatures being above freezing for a couple of days. However we got enough, that the only places you actually see bare ground is on the roads.
Life otherwise has been moving along as rapidly as usual, but relatively smoothly. We're still doing school at the moment, and won't be taking off until just before our visitor arrives next week. Then school will be rather hit-and-miss for a few weeks with holidays and birthdays just around the corner.
Evenings have been quite fun for me, although I am missing my regular walks. I've been making headway on listening to old conference audios, and working on my cross-stitch. I took out the portion that I made a counting mistake on, and re-did it, and now it is coming along nicely. It is amazing how easy it is, once you've figured out where the mistake is. I have taken to coloring in my chart (a copy of the original) after I've stitched an area. I just started last night. Not sure whether it is due to my age, possibly needing new glasses, or just that this chart is more difficult to follow than the many I have used before. I have found it very frustrating at times, and made many more errors than I usually do.
Time to get back to afternoon lessons. 
December 14, 2009 - A rambling of mine.
I'm tired, so very tired. I was reading my friends blog when I realized why I was so tired lately, I've been wanting to have the 'perfect' holiday, and I'm pushing myself too hard to trying to make it happen. I have all my shopping done, gifts wrapped and under the tree, some baking done, and 2 more parties and Christmas Eve with friends to get through. But here's the thing, I might be ahead of the game, I might look like I have it all done, but I've exhausted myself in the process. 
I'm tired, I keep feeling like I'm getting a cold, all weekend, but haven't been able to rest because of our schedule. Today was cleaning day, did I put it off, actually skip it for a week to rest? Heavens no, not me, not Miss scheduled perfectionist. Nope I pushed my way through it, then when I was sitting letting Paulie read to me, I almost feel asleep while he was reading. I had to stop him 5 minutes early, so I could lay down and nap. I only got a 30 minute nap in, then Sarah came home from her bible study and the dryer went off. So I had to get up and take care of laundry and now I'm awake, but still tired. Just got off the phone with hubby, he even said it sounded like something was wrong with me. He called to make sure I was ok. Yep, the tiredness is showing through. So I might have started out pushing myself to have the 'perfect' Christmas. To make sure I had the best gifts and snacks for parties, to make sure all my shopping was done early, and everything looks great. But I think it's taken it's toll, and now all I'm praying for is that I stay healthy until after Christmas. Today is a bit busy, our homeschool party. But then I have nothing until Friday. Paul said I need to unplug, do nothing all week, just relax. I think I'll take his advice. I'm thankful the kids do most of their schooling by themselves, and they'll be finished by Wednesday or Thursday anyway. But I'm bummed that I've pushed myself so hard for others, that I have no energy or desire to bake cookies for my own family this week. Thankfully we do have cookies from a cookie exchange I went to on Saturday, but I want to bake for them myself. But I can't stress about it, I need to let it go. Hubby is fine if I don't bake any, but I'm going to try with all my might to rest as much as I can this week so that next week, when we have no school, I can relax, have fun with the kids and bake for my family. Why I stressed myself out so much and pushed myself so hard on everything else, I'll never know. Well I do know, because it's how I feel 'loved'. It's how I feel others accept me, if I'm involved, and doing, doing, doing. I need to stop thinking that, and realize others love me without me 'doing' all the time. I need to realize a messy, not perfect life is just fine.
Anyway, thanks for reading my rambling. Just needed to get it out. I will try next time to have a more happy and joyful entry.
Dec. 14, 2009 - The Potter's Clay
we are the clay, and you are our potter;
we are all the word of your hand.
~Isaiah 65:2
The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD:
"Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will let you hear my words."
So I went down to the potter's house, and there he was working at his wheel.
And the vessel he was making of clay was spoiled in the potter's hand,
and he reworked it into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to do.
Then the word of the LORD came to me:
"O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter has done?
declares the Lord.
Behold, like clay in the potter's hand,
so are you in my hand, O house of Israel."
~Jeremiah 18:1-6
Dec. 14, 2009 - Map of states I've been to
This was kind of fun and pointless - so I did it! I've had such a ridiculous week last week that I needed to do something pointless, if you know what I mean?
So here is a map of all the states in the USA that I have been to. Not bad since it covers over half the states in the USA. Since I have lived outside the states for almost 16 years this is quite an accomplishment!
visited 27 states (54%)
Create your own visited map of The United States
Dec. 15, 2009 - Primal by Mark Batterson
Be Astonished Again
We have a tendency to complicate Christianity. Jesus simplified it: Love God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength. If we are to live out the essence of Christianity, we must commit to being great at this Great Commandment.
In Primal, Mark Batterson explores the four elements of Great Commandment Christianity: compassion, wonder, curiosity, and power. Along the way, he calls you to be a part of God’s reformation, starting in your own life.
As Mark writes, “Is there a place in your past where you met God and God met you? A place where your heart broke for the things that break the heart of God? Maybe it was a sermon that became more than a sermon. Maybe it was a mission trip or retreat. Maybe it was a vow you made at an altar. In that moment, God birthed something supernatural in your spirit. You knew you’d never be the same again. My prayer is that this book would take you back to that burning bush—and reignite a primal faith.”
Primal will help you live in light of what matters most and discover what it means to love God. It will help you become great at the Great Commandment.
The author of Wild Goose Chase and In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, Mark Batterson serves as lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C. One church with nine services in five locations, NCC is focused on reaching emerging generations and meets in movie theaters at metro stops throughout the D.C. area. Mark has two Masters degrees from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Chicago. He and his wife, Lora, live on Capitol Hill with their three children. www.markbatterson.com
In the past, I've made it pretty clear that non-fiction books are not my genre of choice. However, this past year, I've read several non-fiction books that I've LOVED. Primal is one such book! I loved ever single word of this book - sometimes I found myself reading back over a page - not because missed something the first time or quickly skimmed it - but just because I wanted more. The author, Mark Batterson, takes one of the most important verses in Scripture - the Great Commandment - and expands on it. He gives you ideas and ways to put the Great Commandment to work in your life.
Do you know how to love God with all your heart? Sounds easy enough, right? Not so much! I guarantee that, if you read this book, you'll feel convicted to work on your heart and loving God more. What about your soul? mind? strength? Read the book! I'm just sayin . . . If you choose to read only one non-fiction book in the year 2010, may I be so bold as to suggest that Primal be that book. Seriously! This book has changed the way I look at myself and my Christian walk, it's convicted me in many areas of life (one of which is my study of the Bible), and it one that I'll pick up and read again and again. That's saying a lot, for a non-fiction book!
I've not read either of Mr. Batterson's other books, but I'll be picking them up when I find them. I appreciated his "real" and transparent writing style - he's not "preaching to the masses" but speaking from experience. If I lived in Washington, D.C., I'd be worshipping in a movie theater, that's for sure.
Dec. 14, 2009 - 40 Loaves by C.D. Baker
“Why don’t I have more faith?”
“Why am I so bored with Jesus?”
“Why are Christians so hard for me to like?”
There are many questions we’re not supposed to ask when playing by the religious rules. It makes people uncomfortable. So why is it that Jesus invited questions and even asked some of them himself? What is it that you’re afraid to ask God? It’s a risky prospect to begin asking–but far riskier to continue simply trying to get by without knowing. Author C. D. Baker asked himself 40 soul-searching questions which started a conversation in his heart and ultimately showed him more about God than He ever expected.
Can we become more honest with who we really are and find who God says He really is at the same time? Come indulge yourself in daily readings with an honest exploration of your secret fears and thoughts, and know that you will always be welcomed in God’s unconditional love.
Search me, O God … and know my anxious thoughts.
–Psalm 139:23 NIV
C. David Baker founded an award-winning business before redirecting his career to write full-time from his small farm in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He is the author of eight books, including six novels, one of which was nominated for a Christy Award. He has contributed articles to the Christian History Institute’s international publication Glimpses, and to Christian Singles magazine. Baker has a Master’s degree in theological studies from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.
Heidi Says: I previously read and reviewed C.D. Baker's book - 101 Cups of Water. I was excited for the opportunity to review another book by this author. 40 Loaves was not a disappointment! The book's subtitle is "Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day" - daily readings to renew a hungry spirit. Where 101leaves off, this book picks up. Now, you can have the "bread" to go along with your "cup of water".
It's been "one of those years". It's one thing when you can say "one of those days" - but when you've had a year filled with ups and downs, twists and turns, trials and tribulations, you end up with A LOT of questions. That's where I am. So, this book came to me right when I needed it most. C. D. Baker answers some very simple, yet thought-provoking questions in this book - questions such as "Why don't I feel safe at church?" (I found this one particularly interesting), "Why do I always feel exhausted?", and "Why don't I have more faith?"
I received an extra copy of this book for a giveaway - I gave it to my friend Sue who is still battling cancer. She's got questions too - and it seemed like a perfect gift! If you are looking for a quick devotional book containing daily readings that will make you think, I'd definitely recommend 40 Loaves.
Dec. 13, 2009 - While You Were Sleeping
We bought the Casting Crowns Christmas album this past week - Peace on Earth. We love Casting Crowns and this album is no exception. This album contains an original Christmas version of their previously recorded song - While You Were Sleeping. Great message - just like the original. Enjoy!
December 11, 2009 - It's a busy time
Do you have a crazy Christmas schedule this year? I usually don't, and I try very hard to make sure I don't. But some how this year I feel very rushed. I think it's now having a teenager that has more parties to go to than I do. But Paul also has a work party this year, and I'm going to my first ever Christmas cookie exchange. Yes, it's true, I've never been to a cookie exchange before. And I'm bummed, because I over cooked some of my cookies. Which are the ones I will leave home with the family, but I'm bummed I have to leave the 'bad' ones. But the craziest thing I noticed was this. We have school through the 17th, we took next Friday off (it's one of our busiest days). So we've had parties, cookie exchanges to go to, besides normal get togethers and such to go to. After the 19th, when we are on vacation, and I could do lots of things, I have absolutely nothing scheduled. 
All the parties will be done, no friends to visit, no cookie exchanges to go to, nothing. I simply can't believe everything got crammed into the first two weeks of December, and nothing after that. But I guess that means I can relax, bake some more for my family without feeling rushed and burning cookies, and work on some fun crafts.
We have been pretty cold out lately, waking up to negative temperatures. What's really weird is that I've been out in it for a couple of nights this week, and it wasn't horrible. Actually, it didn't feel that cold, maybe I'm just too numb from the cold to feel it. We did have some snow too, but not too much. But I guess our temperatures are suppose to heat up (into the 30's) but then the snow comes. If it's sunny and clear, like its been, there are no clouds to keep the heat in, and it's beautiful out, but cold. But if the clouds comes in, it warms up, but snows. But at least it's warmer, and we can play in the snow. Here are the kids shoveling, and proof of our cold temps.
Well I should get going. Tonight is one of Sarah's Christmas parties we have to get her too. Plus, I really want to just relax and spend time with hubby while she is gone and Paulie is playing. Plus tomorrow we have a prayer meeting and a cookie exchange, besides church. Then baking two apple crisps Sunday for a party Sunday night and a different party Monday night.
Yep, even though it's a lot to do, I do like a good party.
