Praying Mom of 3

My New Blog Home

2011-02-08T14:18:00.000-06:00

I'm Moving....yep, you read right. I have a new blog home! And I am so excited about it!!!! So come see me over at Life's Little Melodies !

Blessings
Crystal

Monday Meanderings

2010-09-06T16:46:00.000-05:00

Bible Study... Going to try and study I Peter. I Don't know why, I just want to study it.

Memory Verse -- Philippians 2:14 This is the girl's memory verse for this week so I am doing theirs with them.

Husband Encouragement...

* Make his favorite cookies! Chocolate Chip.

* Joyful attitude, patience with children.--This one is Sarah's but I have not been a very joyful or patient Mom the last few days. Thanks Sarah!!!

* Keep hanging up his clothes! He really likes it when I get the laundry put away!

Train Them Up...

* Keep doing memory verses...
* Work on first time obedience. WE have gotten way off track in this.
Personal Goals...

* Paint my toenails...I have went most of the summer with only one or two pedicures (done at home :) ) But my nails are needing some new color!
* Exercise at least twice this week...more if I can work it in.
* Start getting dressed every morning instead of wearing my slouchy clothes all day. :)

New Habit of the Month... Make sure the laundry is put up before I go to bed at night. Been keeping my dishes pretty well done up but now I need to work on that laundry pile..

MUST Do...
* Must clean my messy house....I really need to de-clutter and reorganize.

Zone(s)...
* Help Paul finish redoing the living room this week.
Menu -

M - B- Oatmeal and Strawberries

       L- Leftover Chicken Tacos from Sunday
       S- Lasagna, Garlic Bread

T-   B- Blueberry muffins, yoghurt
       L- Smoked Sausage and Fried Potatoes
        S-Chicken Noodle Soup

W- B-Baked French Toast, Smoothies
L- Leftover Chicken Noodle Soup
S- Bible Study---Spaghetti & Meatballs/Cheesey Garlic Biscuits...

Th- B-Smoothies/Granola
         L-Meatball Subs
         S- Pinto Beans, Fried Potatoes, Meatloaf

F-    B- Muffins, Smoothies
        L- Meatloaf Sandwiches
        S-Biscuits & Gravy

S- B- Omlettes
      L- At a Fair
      S- At a Fair

FUN THINGS!
*RAIN!!!!!!! Supposed to get 3 days of it this week...
* Going to the Fair this weekend.

3 things I'm thankful for today...
1. The new Pretzel M&M's :)
2. Audio Books....for the children...not me. :)
3. Nap Time!!!

Can you tell its been Monday?   But its got to get better!!!

For more Monday Meadering' s join us at Sarah' s!

Have a Blessed Week!!!!
Crystal

My lack of blogging......

2010-08-25T09:52:00.000-05:00

My lack of blogging the last few months can mostly be attributed to busy busy busy mom and wife life....Its crazy, just when I think life is going to slow down, it speeds up and we have more to do.

This summer, our garden came in fast and furious. We had almost nothing one day and the next day was over run with vegetables to put up. But I have freezer full of food and two jars of icebox pickles in the fridge. We have been busy in our home business the last few weeks. And of course playing with the new grandbaby....

And then there is school and regular house work. Plus, we are working on some remodeling projects (nothing pretty....or decorating wise...just stuff that has to be torn out and replaced. ) Like today, I am completely emptying my living room so that we can rip the carpet up in it and replace some sheet rock on a wall. What I am going to do with everything I take out of it, I don't know but its got to get out of there.

So while I have not been blogging on a regular schedule, I am trying to get back on one and to post more interesting and helpful stuff. I always get lots of ideas for post and then never have the time to carry them out.

Praying all has a blessed week.

Crystal

My new favorite store......

2010-08-14T20:12:00.000-05:00

I have a new favorite store.....

You see, for the last few years, I have avoided any kind of store in which I could spend way too much money. I have not bought any kind of new decorations for fall or spring or Christmas or Thanksgiving unless it cost less than $5 at the dollar store. Seriously....

But....I had to go to Hobby Lobby this weekend for some flowers for my nephews wedding. And they have way too much stuff that I can buy. (hehe)

To start with, they already have their Thanksgiving and Christmas stuff out and are running SALES on it. Yes you read right. SALES in AUGUST on THANKSGIVING and CHRISTMAS decorations. Can you believe it?! I was so excited. No I did not buy anything...but I have a list of items that we will hopefully be making a trip back for in the next month or so....

And alot of items on that list are crafts for the kids to do....they are not even for me. But they have so much Thanksgiving and Christmas craft stuff....some wooden cutouts of Pilgrims and Indians and Pumpkins that they can color (markers included) for $1.99 ea. Not bad. And the girls loved the idea...and of course there are ornaments that you can paint. and all kinds of felt items.

And I like the word "stuff" don't I?

Question....

2010-07-28T11:25:00.000-05:00

I have been trying to finish up my planning for the upcoming home school year but one question remains from last year and I cannot seem to answer it. What to use for Science curriculum?

We are mainly Charlotte Mason style but I am not against using a different style of curriculum. I have thought about just doing Nature Study with them until they get a little older.

Also, at what age would you generally start a specific Science curriculum? This is where it gets confusing looking at all the different curriculums out there. Some dont start until "grade" 3 or 4 and some start at "grade"1. So what "grade" or age do you really start with the Science....and Geography and History for that matter?

We started with some History last year and some Geography and some Science, but the girls quickly lost interest in all three....so we laid back and concentrated on Reading, Hadnwriting and Math...with Fun stuff thrown in. But now I am back where I was last year....with the questions of when do I start teaching these and what do I teach.

Any input would be much appreciated!
Crystal

Monday Meanderings

2010-07-19T18:54:00.000-05:00

Bible Study: Strength. Will give some verses on this later.

Memory Verse: Prov. 31:25

Husband Encouragement:   Get us both to feeling better. He hates it when I'm sick and I hate it when he is sick.
* Just be here for him when he comes in from work. I get so wrapped up in the kids and the house and lose sight of just US time.

Train Them Up: Keep getting back on routine and getting them outside. Although it is hot hot hot outside this week, we have got to find cool things to do.

Personal Goals: Get to feeling better. Thats about it.

New Habit of the Month: Keep doing dishes up throughout the day.   Been doing pretty good, just got to keep doing it.

Must Do: Still need to order the herbs for the kids. * Still need to make bread and freeze. * Still need to finish school plans and order books.   (this stuff has gotten put off because of being sick and shortage of money... :( )

Zone: Not doing one this week. Basically my whole house needs cleaned but unless I feel better, I'm not doing much.

Menu:
Monday: Had Pizza for supper.
Tuesday:   B: Eggs, Toast
                   L: Grilled Cheese
                   S: Hamburger Steak, Fried Potatoes Veggie.
Wednesday: B: Smoothies
                      L: No Clue
                      S: Bible Study: Velveeta Cheese Dip/Chips Fruit Salad
Thursday: B: Granola
L: Chicken Salad Sandwiches
   S: Biscuits/Gravy/Bacon
Friday: B: Smoothies
   L: Quesadillas
   S: Steaks, Baked Potatoes, Salad
Saturday and Sunday, have no idea what we are doing so I am not planning anything.

Fun Things: Playday with the homeschool group Friday.   Thats about it this week. :)

3 things I am thankful for this week: A great husband * Kids that understand that momma is sick and are being so helpful and good (they planned out menu this week :) ) * God!

For more Monday Meanderings please visit Sarah!

Have a blessed week!!!!!
Crystal!

Kinda Bummed.....

2010-07-19T17:12:00.000-05:00

Kindof a dotted post....

* I have been sick for the last two weeks....Bronchitis. It hurts, it makes me feel yucky and I am tired of coughing. And even though I am not contagious, I hate the looks I get in the stores or public places when I cough...

* Paul has been fighting a bronichal infection for a month now...he is even more tired of being sick than I am...I am tired of him being sick. Not that I mind taking care of him, I just dont like seeing my baby sick.

* I am tired of trying to type in blogger and it not working. ughhhh

* Our Homeschool Groups Moms Night Out has kinda slacked off. Just not a whole lot of moms coming and the ones of us that are are kinda discouraged instead of encouraged. I need some ideas on things for us to do. We are not a rich homeschool group, most of our husbands are either out of work or low on work and most are self employed so things that require money are not an option.

* This Heat is so opressing.....So tiring!!!!!
Thats it, just things that are kinda low today.

Now to make my day better and my week Great!!!!
I pray everyone has a great week!!!
Blessings
Crystal

Eli Gabriel....our Grandson!

2010-07-13T15:08:00.000-05:00

Eli Gabriel. 7-8-10. 7.5lbs 20.5in. Doing great and being spoiled! Sorry if some of the pics are blurry. Kind of hard to get good pics of moving kids... :)
But that is what we are up to lately.......

Blessings
Crystal

Monday Meanderings

2010-07-06T19:07:00.000-05:00

Bible Study - Randomly reading through the Bible. I like to do this from time to time.

Memory Verse- As said above, I am randomly reading....my ADD mind is so busy this week and usually in these instances, if I try to make myself memorize something, it does not work at all!

Husband Encouragement

* Have the house clean when he comes in from work...
* Have his clothes put up....he cannot stand having his clothes left out after they have been laundered and I am horrible at putting them up.
* Make a special meal for him this week! He deserves it!

* Praise him for one thing (or more) each day! I try not to nag or belittle him, but I really need to work on finding things to tell him he did good...or that I appreciate.

Train Them Up

*I'm with Sarah on the getting OFFLINE. I get so wrapped up in things on the computer, I tend to forget the kids and it is so crazy around here.

* Also with Sarah on getting the kids outside. We have no trees in our yard....but if they can just stay outside for 10-15 min at a time, this would help so much.....(and I am going to start keeping popsicles and homemade slushies in the freezer so they can cool off.....) :)

*Start back on our daily routine.....we have gotten so off of everything but morning routine the last few weeks while we have had my daughter-in-law over.....she is anxiously awaiting the birth of our Grandson and hasnt wanted to be home alone....just in case.

* Start doing their Bible reading time again.....we have also forgot this in the business of life but it works so well!

Personal Goals

* re-paint my nails.....lol. I so need to do this and wouldn't have thought of it if Sarah hadn't posted it.

* Start walking again. I have let this go also and I can tell.

* Drink more Lemon water everyday....such an energy booster and so many health benefits....

New Habit of the Month - JULY!

*Keep the dishes done. When I leave the dishes even for a little bit, we get overrun with ants....(the little black ones) and its horrible. If I keep the dishes done up, they are not as bad. But I am bad about leaving them for the day and doing them all at night..... :(

MUST Do

*Order more contacts....finally got my eyes re-examined and now I need to order contacts and new glasses...but glasses later.

* Order herbs off of Amazon. (I can get the kids ear drops and Echinacea on here cheaper.)

* Make Bread and freeze some....so tired of buying bread from store.

* Finish making school plans for kids and get books ordered
* Make a pillow for Jason (he doesn't have a special pillow... :( )
* I think that is enough for the week....considering the last two days are going to be busy....
Zone - master bath...

Menu

M -had supper with Daddy...
T- Grilled Hamburgers with the kids

W- Bible Study- Beans and Sausage, cake.

Th- Probably eat out...Will be at the hospital with Amber....(she is being induced)
F- Mexican Casserole
S- Cereal (we like to do this some....it is cheap (if its homemade granola) and quick and relaxing)
FUN THINGS!

*Amber is scheduled to be induced Thursday....she has been having some problems so they are ready to go. So hopefully by Thursday night, we will have our Grandson...
* My mom and dad possibly coming up for a couple of days.

3 things I'm thankful for today:

1.My wonderful family!

2. My very hardworking husband.
3. Garden fresh veggies.

For more Monday Meanderings please visit Sarah!!!!
Hope all has a blessed week!
Crystal

My wonderful husband.....

2010-07-03T12:17:00.001-05:00

I have the Greatest Husband in the World!!!!! He is such a hard worker and he always makes time for our babies. No matter how tired he is or how much he has to do, he still makes time to sit them on his knee and just spend time with them teaching them. He comes in from work and wrestles with them and they LOVE it!!! I love hearing the screams of joy and the "Come get me Daddy".

He has been sick with a sinus infection the last couple of weeks but he still has been working and taking care of his family. I had to have a tooth pulled a couple of weeks ago while he was out of town on a trip for a couple of days. He knows how dental work gets me down and he hated being out of town. He came home the next day and immediately started helping with the house and cooking and making sure I had whatever I thought I could eat. He even made two different trips to town to get me stuff.

His (our) first Grandbaby is due any day and I cant wait to see him as a grandpa. I never thought that I would be a grandma at 29. But its okay. I am so anxious for this baby to get here so I can spoil it. But I know he has waited a loooooonnnnnggg time to be able to say that he is a grandpa. He is so excited about it.

I thank God everyday for sending my husband to me. He knew what He was doing when He gave us to each other. We have learned alot the last couple of years about becoming a couple that pleases God. It has not been an easy journey and we are far from finished but I am so glad that My husband has been the one that I have journeyed it with and that we will continue this journey together!

This picture was taken at the Zoo in Great Bend, Ks. We were there on business and the town has a free Zoo and Raptor center. It was really cool. We were in the Aquarium house when this picture was taken and a really big fish had just swam by and of course Jason was distracted...Kylie was acting scared and Alaina clung to daddy...lol. A great trip though.

This monkey was so playful and was really enjoying having the kids talk to him. He followed us all the way around the cage. Course pictures are hard to take of a moving monkey through wire.. :) The fish on the right, was one of many in the aquarium house. The girls thought it was cool in the house because the only light was the lights coming from the aquarium's. It was a really really cool but weird light. If that makes any sense....but most of the house dark with green and purple and blue and pink lights everywhere....made for some interesting pictures!

This trip was just one of the many things that Paul does for his family! So blessed to have him!!!

Blessings and I pray all has a very blessed Holiday weekend!
Crystal

Blogger!!!!!

2010-06-01T08:53:00.000-05:00

I was going to do Monday Meandering yesterday and another post today and I had a post last week that Blogger did not even post...for some reason, it says it is but its not.

And what is the deal with their fonts and their spacing. Everytime I hit the enter key, I have to hit the arrow key to get the cursor where I want it. Its crazy....so instead of posting, I am going to just enjoy my time with my babies.

Who knows...between blogger being a pain and needing to spend time with my kids, I may not blog. Seriously thinking about it.

Blessings
Crystal

A Bloggy Giveaway!!!!!

2010-05-20T09:55:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone!!!!

My Sis is having a bloggy giveaway!!!!! So go on over and check it out and I can promise that you will love your prizes if you win!!!!!

I'll be back with another post later today or tomorrow !

Blessings

Crystal!

A Crockpot cooking website that I found!!!!

2010-04-28T14:10:00.000-05:00

I found this on a friends facebook page the other day and I have been trying some of the recipes.....YUMMYYY

Crockpot365

Go Check it out!

Now I am off to go finish mowing my yard and till my garden one more time before I plant.....cant wait for all the fresh veggies.... :)

Have a very blessed day
Crystal

My laundry schedule

2010-04-28T09:45:00.000-05:00

I thought I would post my laundry schedule today in hopes that it may help others.

I dont enjoy laundry, I really cant stand to fold it or hang it. I do love the smell of fresh clean clothes and the feel of line dried clothes though...and I LOVE the smell of laundry detergent. My homemade laundry detergent...... :)

I admit, I was drowning in laundry. It never got all done, never was all put up or all hung...ughhh just not pretty at all.

So I sat down one day and decided that I had to get a handle on it. It is working so far.
Week one....
Monday, Wednesday, Friday....Pauls and My laundry... Usually by Friday I dont have anything left, so we do sheets and extras...

Tuesday, Thursday... The kids do their laundry. (They wash, dry, (unless we hang outside, then they help me with this.) and fold and put up)!!! But remember, I have an almost 7 yr old, and a curious 5 yr old...they both know how the washer and dryer work and since we dont use bleach (vinegar instead) and our homemade detergent is not harmful....They really enjoy it. Which is more than I can say for their mom.. :)

The next week, we rotate our days, I take tuesday and thusday and the girls and jason get M.W. F. And we do their sheets and extras...

We rotate these weeks and everyones laundry is done and we dont have to worry about whether everyone has clean clothes...It has worked out really well.

On really busy weeks, I have started doing this. It still gets all the laundry done....

Hope you all have a blessed week!!!

Monday Meanderings

2010-04-26T08:30:00.000-05:00

Monday Meanderings

Bible Study: Reading my Busy Moms Bible

Memory Verse
Hebrews 7:25

Husband Encouragement
Make his favorite cookies and do as much of his paperwork for him this week that I can do......

Train Them Up

* Routine, Routine, Routine.....Need I say more....

* Keep on doing our Bible reading in the morning and at night. (When I sit down to read my bible at night before bed, they get their bibles and sit quietly and read....then just before they go to bed, we read from the bible and answer questions they have. They have started really enjoying this..) Keep it going.....

Must Do
*Plant Garden
*Mow Yard (again)
*Find Dresser for my daughter in law for the babys room
* Finish Alainas dress (I am determined to get this done and then another one)
Zone
YARD
Menu
Will post later
Fun Things
*Moms Night Out!!!
* Play day today
*Go help Amber get baby room more organized
* Go play at Grannys Wednesday or Friday
* Mom had an appointment Thursday so the kids get to stay with some friends while she is gone......They love these friends.... :)
*Go with Daddy to get stuff for work Wednesday or Friday.
Crazy Crazy week...
For More Monday Meanderings Visit Sarah!!!

Have a blessed Week!!!!
Crystal

Blessings

Crystal

Monday Meanderings

2010-04-12T08:00:00.001-05:00

Monday Meanderings

Bible Study:

Finish Ecclessiaties....and start another one...dont know which yet... (If you havent figured out yet, I randomly select books of the Bible and study them)

Memory Verse
Reviewing the kids memory verses with them....Again.....

Husband Encouragement
He is going to be on a business trip Wednesday thru Saturday (we will be joining him Friday Night) So I am going to try to make suppers quick and simple Monday and Tuesday so that we can spend quality time with him...and I am making it a point to clean out our office so that he can find what he needs without asking me where it is... :)

Train Them Up

* Work on getting back into routines....vacations are so bad on this ---and still working on it..it is getting there though.....

* Keep on doing our Bible reading in the morning and at night. (When I sit down to read my bible at night before bed, they get their bibles and sit quietly and read....then just before they go to bed, we read from the bible and answer questions they have. They have started really enjoying this..) Keep it going.....

Must Do

* Till garden and plant it....

* Haul junk to the landfill.....
* Clean out flower bed...it froze again the other night so I am hesitant to do this....but it really needs done before the weeds take over...
* Finish girls aprons (no I still havent gotten this done..) but I am determined to do it this week...especially with Paul being gone so much...

* Finish Alainas dress (havent gotten this done either)
* Clean out office!!!

Zone

Office and Yard

Menu

Monday- Lunch--Hamburgers and French Fries (on the grill)
Supper-- Steaks and my hubbys wonderful potatoes!!! and salad

Tuesday--Lunch-- Polish sausage dogs(Alaina is allergic to hot dogs (any kind) so we have polish sausage instead....she is fine with these..
Supper-- Grilled Chicken, Salad, Corn on the Cob on the grill
Wednesday--Lunch--TBD
Supper-- Bible Study--Roast..potatoes carrots

Thursday--Lunch--TBD
Supper--Calizone
Friday--Lunch--On the Road to see Daddy..
Supper--Supper with Daddy and An Aunt that we love so much but hardly ever get to see and Jack and Amber
Saturday-- Lunch-- On our way home from seeing Daddy
Supper---Salad

Sunday--Lunch--Out to eat and go to Sams Club

Supper--Snacks...

Fun Things

* Playday at least one...

* Get to see our Aunt!!!

* And outside alot!!!!!!!!

For more Monday Meanderings, visit Sarah!!!

Blessings

Crystal

Under Construction!

2010-04-08T12:47:00.000-05:00

I will be moving a few things around on my blog over the next couple of weeks. Please be patient...and do come back! I promise I will have it done soon!

Blessings
Crystal

Monday Meanderings

2010-03-29T09:22:00.001-05:00

Bible Study:
Ecclesiastes---
Memory Verse

Reviewing the kids memory verses with them....

Husband Encouragement

He has alot of trips to make this week.....I am going to try to be up when he leaves in the mornings and try not to be yelling (er....raising my voice just a little bit.... :) ) at the kids when he gets home...and I am going to make his favorite chocolate chip cookies this week.

Train Them Up

* Work on getting back into routines....vacations are so bad on this

* Work on praising them for their good works......The have been such good helpers and I dont tell them enough how good they are....Still working on this....

* Keep on doing our Bible reading in the morning and at night. (When I sit down to read my bible at night before bed, they get their bibles and sit quietly and read....then just before they go to bed, we read from the bible and answer questions they have. They have started really enjoying this..)

Must Do
* Get garden ready to plant.....should have been done already. But lacking good weather and time...

* Start seeds for garden..so they will be ready to go in the ground in a month...

* Finish girls aprons (no I still havent gotten this done..)

* Finish Alainas dress (havent gotten this done either)

* Two possibly three play days this week....

Zone
Garden.....yes this is a zone....and the rest of my house is pretty much okay.

Menu

Monday- Lunch--Salad
                Supper-- Tostadas
Tuesday--Lunch--Burritos
                Supper--Seasoned Baked Chicken Breast and Veggies
Wednesday--Lunch--Sausage Egg Toaster Sandwiches
                     Supper-- Bible Study--Crockpot beef enchiladas
Thursday--Lunch--Cereal (homemade granola) Fruit
                 Supper--Steaks, Salad, Baked potatoes
Friday--Lunch--Salad
             Supper--Hamburgers oven fries veggies
Saturday-- Lunch-- Spaghetti
                 Supper--Out to eat with Paul
Sunday--Lunch--Leftover Spaghetti Salad
              Supper--Cereal (homemade granola) We like to keep it simple on Sundays...

Like I said, Paul will be gone several days this week and the kids are really getting in to cooking...so alot of it is stuff they can either make on their own (with supervision of course) or that they can really help alot with.

Fun Things

* Playdays (as mentioned above)
* Getting to help get the garden ready
* And redoing our flower beds
* And outside alot!!!!!!!!

For more Monday Meanderings, visit Sarah!!!
Blessings
Crystal

HAPPY 3rd Birthday Jason!!!!

2010-03-02T13:43:00.000-06:00

Jason at 6wks old.

6mths

(1 Year)

(2 Years)

(3 Years)

Blogger has me agrivated right now because it took me three hours (at different times of course) to get these loaded.

But My baby is 3. Where did the time go? Love You Lots my Jason bear and cant wait to see the wonderful young man you become.

Monday Meanderings.....

2010-03-01T09:01:00.000-06:00

Again, I havent done this in a while, and I dont know if Sarah is doing it this week, but I felt the need to do it and see if it will keep me on track.

Bible Study

Reading Proverbs

Memory Verse
Prov. 31:26 "She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her toungue is the law of kindness."
Yes, I am doing this one again.....I need a review.

Husband Encouragement
Make his favorite cookies. Keep the laundry done up (he loves it when all the laundry is done....or at least his is put in the closet. )

Train Them Up
* Work on obedience and respect we have slacked in this area.
* Work on praising them for their good works......The have been such good helpers and I dont tell them enough how good they are.

Must Do

* Take Jason to his check up on his ears.
* Finish preparations for our vacation (more on that later)
* Finish girls aprons
* Finish Alainas dress
* Make a skirt for me

Zone

My Bedroom (ughh it is a complete disaster of books and clothes and stuff)

Menu

Monday- Sirloin tips and gravy (mashed potatoes and rolls)

Tuesday- Calizone
Wednesday- Bible Study (Chicken noodle Soup)

Thursday - Nachos
Friday- Pancakes
Saturday- Hamburgers

Fun Things

* Getting to play outside in all this pretty weather!

* Getting ready for our vacation

* Going for coffee with a friend

Again, I am not sure if Sarah is doing this this week. She is busy enjoying her new blessing :) But I needed to do it to keep me going.

Blessings
Crystal

Books that I found.....

2010-02-22T16:56:00.000-06:00

....In our library today!!!! I was so excited to find these books. You can find them at ZonderKids They are Living Light books and they are wonderful! I am so excited about this and they are pretty reasonably priced too.... Jason sat and listened to me read three of these so far... The girls have been listening too and are already asking questions and trying to do what the books say!!!

Also, I found this link on my sisters blog and read the post and loved the idea. I looked for actual marbles today at the Dollar Store but could not find any. I may have to use rocks but I am hoping to find marbles eventually, I just like the sound of them. They wont let you forget that they are there.....

I hope yall all have a blessed day!!!

Blessings
Crystal
Phillipians 2:4

Another random post...

2010-02-09T12:39:00.000-06:00

My mind is going around in circles today. Its not a good day for concentrated thought.

* Sinus infections, Bronchitis, ear infections. Bad things and all three have been in our house the past two weeks.

* Paul is feeling lots better, The girls are some better. Jasons ears are still infected. I still feel horrible.

* I am tired of the snow. Yes it is pretty, yes I still wish I could live somewhere like Kansas or Nebraska. But......the snow is hindering my husbands work...and thats not good.

* Our Cats are outside cats now and are loving being outside....except for the snow....they dont know what to do with it. lol.

* My niece Claire will be 5 in a week. How did that happen?

* My Alaina will be 5 in a month.....HOW DID THAT HAPPEN? These two inseperable little dolls cant possible be 5 already...no way, I am staying in denial...

* My Little Boy will be 3 in less than a month. Definately in denial....
* His head still fits on my shoulder and there is nothing sweeter than having him all snuggled up on me.

* I am going to miss these days...

* My house is a wreck from being sick for two weeks...
* I dont really care!\

* I have been having more fun with my kids than I ever thought possible.....

* just by letting life happen...

* I have been trying to think of how I want to do school next year...

* no such luck yet..

* my mind just refuses to focus on school right now...

*especially since there is so much fun to be had...

* I think we are on a permanent winter break....at least until spring....

* then well be on a permanant spring break....until summer... :)

* dont count the grammatical errors in this post....I'm blaming them on my head ache...

* I pray everyone is well and that you all have a very blessed week....or however long it is till I get back on here....

Blessings
Crystal

Goings on......and other such stuff...

2010-01-26T10:53:00.000-06:00

Crazy title huh..lol. We have had a busy last couple of months....well, the whole half of last year was busy...and now we are starting to settle into routines. A (starred) list of things we have been doing or things I want to do....well see how many of those I get done. (grins)

* My husbands home business took off like a rocket.....he is now very very busy....but since it is at home, we get to spend lots of time with daddy!!!!

*Our involvement with our Homeschool group has grown.....we now do Moms night out, 4-H play day, regular play day (or will when it warms up...brrrr).

* I want to start going to the other moms house and letting my kids play or learn one craft from the other kids.....(craft, cook, farmwork, something like that)

* I want to learn how to make fabric or felt food for my kids to play with....who knows , someday I may sell it....(anyone have any hints on this)

* I have 6 aprons to make....need to get started. Kylie wants to help me. We will see...lol

* I have 2 quilts to repair....yeah....ummmmm they are still in my sewing basket for like the last 6 months...lol.

* I have 8 or 9 quilts that I need to make......yeah...the material is still at the store...

* I have started trying a new recipe a week.....so far only two of them have been keepers.....I think we may stick to the oldies but goodies....you know, all that bad for you butter and red meat stuff...lol. And dont forget fried taters... (its a southern thang ya know! )

* Today is a play day around here....Kylie did math, but other than that, nah...we are watching Elmo......(its educational.....)

* We are hoping to have a farm within a year. Seriously, I miss my country living.....so ready to wade the muck to check on cows....and gather eggs......

* School did not go at all like I wanted this year. We will try again next year...no big deal right....I mean come on, Kylie is only 6 and she is learning to read after all......and she can already add, multiply (some) Subtract (some)

* I'm going to be a grandma in July (well, step grandma, but I am the one that lives the closest to it....)

* And I am kinda excited about that.....anther baby around....

* I have been spending less time on facebook and blogs. Its kinda strange not to be on the computer everyday...

*but I'm getting more done.

*my house is halfway organized......

*the other half is getting done this weekend....hopefully

*I am enjoying learning more about GOD and life with my kids

* and now my kids want to know if I can have a tea party!

* So I will go and next time I will try to do some pictures of things we have been up too.....although I havent stopped to take a lot of pictures lately....life is too full and fun to stop and grab a camera

Blessings
Crystal

Impressions!

2010-01-19T07:51:00.000-06:00

"Why are you still seeking the worlds approval instead of mine?" ------ Love God!

Colossians 3:23-24

My thoughts for the day....

Blessings
Crystal

Womanhood, Motherhood.....

2010-01-01T20:54:00.000-06:00

I have not been blogging alot here lately, I have not been doing much of anything here lately. This post that I came across today on Like A Warm Cup of Coffee explains how I have felt almost to a "T" !!!! I could not think of any better words to explain it. My question too is How many of you women out there feel like this too? Seriously, sometimes I feel like I am the only one, but I know there has to be others out there....

This one was interesting too....

And I will try my best to be back more often......hopefully, without feeling completely lost and unworthy to be the mom that God made me!

Blessings
Crystal

Monday Meanderings

2009-11-23T10:24:00.000-06:00

I know I havent posted in a while but I am going to try to do better. I havent ever done the Monday Meanderings before but thought that I would give it a try.

Bible Study
Studying the book of James

Memory Verse
Prov. 31:26 "She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her toungue is the law of kindness."

Husband Encouragement
Bake another batch of Chocolate Chip cookies. Write SHMILY somewhere he can see it when he gets up.

Train Them Up
* Work on establishing routines again after their visit to granny's..
* Work on praising them for their good works......The have been such good helpers and I dont tell them enough how good they are.

Must Do
* Order books for Church
* Finish ordering Christmas Presents
* Finish Alainas scarf and start blanket
* Enjoy the week of Thanksgiving with the family

Zone
Not doing a zone this week, its a vacation week and we are going to bake and enjoy the cool weather and our new kittens.

Menu
Monday- Nachos, Cookies
Tuesday- Chicken and Dumplings
Wednesday- Tacos Apple Pie
Thursday - Thanksgiving
Friday- Leftovers with Friends
Saturday- Salad and Ham Salad Sanwiches

Fun Things
* Going hunting with my hubby this week. The kids are all finally old enough that our niece can baby sit for a couple of hours at a time.
* Putting the kids pilgrims and little indians together.
* Playing with our new kittens.
*Cooking with my kids
*Enjoying Family time.

You can read more Monday Meanderings at Sarahs Blog.....

Blessings
Crystal

I was Frugal!!!!

2009-10-03T16:42:00.002-05:00

I went on the hunt for Halloween Costumes today! Alaina has had a hard time making up her mind what she wanted to be....She had mentioned a little indian girl...because Kylie wants to be Laura (Little House on the Prairie, Any Helpful Ideas? I am lost as to how to get her a costume together before halloween...) Anyway, we went to a resale shop that I frequent for their clothes...and on the very front rack was a.............. Disney Store Pochahontas Costume for a total of

$3.00

Wow!!!!!!

So I was FRUGAL!!!!!! And it fits her perfectly and is so cute!!!! I will post pics as soon as I get Kylies outfit together!

Blessings
Crystal

Just loving these for the kids.....

2009-10-02T09:45:00.002-05:00

I found these on Chasing Cheerios the other day and I am just loving them....

The idea came from here and here are the directions...

Cant wait to make them and post pictures.,...hopefully we will get to make them tonight...

Blessings
Crystal

Chilly.......

2009-09-29T08:44:00.002-05:00

Ahhh...41Degrees here this morning! Definately FALL!

Enjoyed time with my God this morning with a homemade mocha and a glorious sunrise....and wonderful hugs and good morning kisses from my dear sweet husband and kids.

Today we are going to a friends house to make Apple Pie and enjoy some fellowship and just good old fashioned fun. (maybe I'll post pictures) ....when we get home, we are going to paint some pumpkins we have and maybe get our scarecrows put outside....then after Daddy gets off work and we have a wonderful supper of Chicken and Dumplings and homemade bread, we are going to sit down and enjoy watching a hunting video with Daddy. He so enjoys these fall evenings when he can sit down and enjoy watchin those videos with his baby's . While we enjoy the video, I am going to finish knitting Alainas scarf and maybe start a blanket, we will see how far I get.

I will try to post recipes and pictures this weekend. If I dont make it back before then...Enjoy this glorious Fall week!

Blessings
Crystal

First day of Fall (Autumn)

2009-09-22T08:01:00.002-05:00

The first day of fall (aumtumn)!

We are so excited around here when the first day of fall comes around.....Cooler temperatures, leaves changing colors, the pretty fall scarecrows that we get to put in our yard, pumpkins, pumpkin pie, apple pie, leaf piles to play in, long sleeve shirts, hooded sweatshirts, long skirts and boots......We are just fall crazy around here.

Some of the things we are doing and are planning to do this year......

We are planning on making an apple pie with some friends of ours....

We are planning on making pumpkin pie, and pumpkin cheesecake......

We are making a Fall wall in our school room (aka dining room).......

We have already put our our decorations for fall.....

We have already been wearing long sleeve shirts....

We are planning on coloring lots of fall color sheets and putting scarecrows together....

Have any of you ever pressed leaves between wax paper?

We are going to watch the leaves change and collect all that we can and study them.....

The girls have already figured out that the Acorns are falling and we have been collecting them....

We are going to be studying the birds of Fall.....as soon as we figure out which ones they are....we pretty much have all birds all year round around here....

And I think we may do a squierel unit....sounds fun anyway.

And here is a poem to end this post with (sorry no links, maybe later as I get time...so be sure and come back and check.)

A Fall Song
by Ellen Robena Field

Golden and red treesNod to the soft breeze,

As it whispers, "Winter is near;"

And the brown nuts fall

At the wind's loud call,

For this is the Fall of the year.

Good-by, sweet flowers!

Through bright Summer hours

You have filled our hearts with cheer

We shall miss you so,

And yet you must go,

For this is the Fall of the year.

Now the days grow cold,

As the year grows old,

And the meadows are brown and sere;

Brave robin redbreast

Has gone from his nest,

For this is the Fall of the year.

I do softly pray

At the close of day

,That the little children, so dear,

May as purely grow

As the fleecy snow

That follows the Fall of the year.

Day 30......How did you do?

2009-09-10T13:04:00.002-05:00

Well ladies, tommorow is the last day of this challenge.... and I know I havent posted on every day or even half of them. I have been very busy with getting my house and mind ready fro the coming school year and my blog has kinda taken a back burner. But I would like to report that I need to do this challenge again....more importantly, I need to learn to encourage my husband daily, not just for a challenge. I have been very short and snappy with him, and have not been encourging at all. Have any of you had bad days, weeks, months where you just know that you are not honoring your husband?

Here is tommorows Challenge....Maybe I will do better with it than I have the whole last month....
Day Thirty:
"...This is my beloved, and this is my friend..."
Song of Solomon 5:16b
Friends can be completely honest with each other, but friendships are strained when
truth is not spoken in love. How are you speaking to your beloved? Are you so "used" to
him that you don't appreciate the wonder of his friendship? That is your challenge today.
Is your sweetheart your best friend? Does he know this? Have you told him, or do you
assume he "just knows"?
Friendship is something that is cultivated through the good times and the bad. Friends
can share their hearts, but they don't step on each other's hearts.
The way to have and be a good friend is to cultivate and celebrate the relationship. As
you end this "30-Day Encouragement Challenge," celebrate your friendship with your
husband. Get alone and reflect on your beloved friend. Write him a letter, listing the
qualities you admire and appreciate about him. If you are creative with words, write and
frame a poem about him.
Perhaps you can prepare a special meal, just for the two of you, and read the letter or
poem to him. Ask if you can pray for him, and if he is willing, thank God for your love
and friendship, asking for His blessing on your home.
Encouragement, as you have seen these past 30 days, is a synonym for love in action.
***
How has this challenge changed your heart and life, dear friend? Did God encourage
you as you planned ways to encourage your husband? Were there difficult days where
you simply needed to trust that God was working? Days when it was hard to leave the
results to God? Remember that God is faithful, and He will bless you for your
willingness to obey Him. His ways are not our ways, and perhaps He will honor you in
ways you do not expect, but one thing is sure - you will never be the same because of
your commitment to be more like Christ!

Day 21 and How did you do on getting up early?

2009-09-02T08:39:00.003-05:00

I realized today (someone brought it to my attention) That I put the wrong start date in my post that I started the husband encouragement on. I said that I was going to start it on the 17th of August, but I started it on August 13th. But dont worry, just keep going with whatever day you are on and KEEP ENCOURAGING!

Day 21 of the Husband Encouragement Challenge!

Day Twenty-one:
"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be
added to you." Matt. 6:33
If we are living in light of eternity, everything we think, do or say is seen from an eternal
perspective. We will someday give an account for our failure to speak words of love and
encouragement. Determine today that your words will be sweet and helpful.
Does your husband have an eternal perspective that allows him to reject materialism
and temporal values? Express your gratefulness for his value system, and praise him
for putting eternal things before riches and other things of this world.
If this is a problem area for him, consider how you might alter your own value system
and live for eternity in front of him, encouraging him to do the same. Only two things will
go into eternity...the Word of God and people. Be sure that you are focusing on the right
things.

I really have no thoughts on this. Paul is really good about putting God first and his values are really in the right order......Maybe if some of you have had a problem with this then you can put in something that will help someone.

Getting up early ended yesterday........or at least the Challenge did. :) I did pretty good, Most days I did get up early and really enjoyed my quiet time. We arrived home early this morning from a trip with Hubby so we all slept in this morning. It is making me feel like I have forgotten something and my day is just dragging......amazing what that difference can make.

And It is almost Autumn! or Fall...whichever you call it! I cant wait. These cooler temperatures and the rain is really setting the mood for Sept. 21...The girls are just as excited as I am...lol

Blessings
Crystal

Happy Birthday Kylie!

2009-08-27T19:42:00.003-05:00

My Kylie Bear! What can I say about you that people dont already know? You are so smart, and have a wonderful loving, giving heart.

Being the first born, you gave me a little more problems figuring out this whole mommy thing. But you have also been very patient with me and very loving and you tell me that it will be okay...you tell me not to worry and to just pray about it.

It is hard watching my little girl getting ready to really start school (homeschool) and deciding already that when you grow up you want to be a mommy and stay home and teach your kids.....I can only pray that you get to do that....that you get to accomplish your dreams. You make me feel really good about what I am doing as a momma and a teacher....when I really dont think I am doing all that great a job.

You love animals and hate to see anything hurt. Although you dont mind wanting to kill a deer like daddy. You are such a good mommy to your little dolls and you are a great Big Sister to Alaina and Jason!

And you cant wait to cook all on your own! You are so ready to grow up and I am not ready to let go.......

I pray that you have many more joyous years and that you are able to grow up and live your dreams....whatever they may be when you do grow up. I miss your baby years, and I am sure that in another 6, I will miss this year...but I am so glad that I get to share your years with you! I love you my Kylie Bear......my little "mommy"

Blessings
Crystal

Husband Encouragement and Up Early! And Happy Birthday Kylie!

2009-08-27T07:31:00.003-05:00

Do you realize that we are over halfway through with the Husband Encouragement Challenge? But should we really ever be through.....We should encourage our husbands everyday! Not just because it is our job, but because we want to! How is the challenge coming for you?

Day Sixteen:
"And the LORD God said, 'It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a
helper comparable to him." Genesis 2:18
God says that it is not good for man to be alone. But the way some women criticize their
mates, the husbands may long for solitude. Be careful today not to criticize your mate,
but look for ways to encourage him personally and publicly.
Speaking of communication, does your husband communicate with you? God has made
you a companion and helper for your husband, and part of being "one flesh" with him is
the privilege of sharing and discussing personal needs and concerns. Thank God for
that wonderful gift. Thank your husband for communicating with you.
If your spouse does not communicate as you wish, look for ways that he communicates
that are normal for him - smiling at you, nodding his head, even a pleasant "grunt!" - and
then thank him for letting you know that he cares. Perhaps he needs to be lovingly
taught how to communicate. Be patient with him...and listen when he does speak.

Paul is not a very big speaker....Not saying anything negative trust me...He is the most loving caring man but he just is not a big talker. He communicates in other ways.....bringing me a snack or something speacial when he goes to town.....or coming in and helping with supper.....or helping with the house chores I have left to do (which I shouldnt have any left to do...) He holds my hand in the car...almost constantly, puts his hand on my back as we walk through a store or through a parking lot, sneaks little kisses throughout the day, calls me just to say I love you! So see, your husband does not have to talk to communicate with you.

I have been doing okay on getting up early. I have missed a few days but Paul has told me not to worry about it, just do what you can. I dont know why but the past few days, I have been exhausted and havent been able to get out of bed. I think I may have caught a little bug or something....because Kylie, the one who is always out of bed by 7 has been sleeping until 8 or until I wake her up....so I think either allergies or a bug has gotten us.

But I will keep trying!!!!

And later today, a birthday post to my Kylie Bear! She turns 6 today....6 Oh my Gosh where did the time go? Love You Kylie!

Blessings
Crystal

Misc....

2009-08-24T11:57:00.002-05:00

Starting with the Husband Encouragement Challenge, I have a some Misc. stuff.

Day Twelve:
"With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love."
Eph. 4:2
Part of the difficulty you may face as you continue in this 30-day challenge to encourage
your husband is that you really are struggling to find positive things to praise. Perhaps
the problem is not with your husband. Have you checked your own heart?
Sometimes we get disillusioned because of our own unreasonable or unrealistic
expectations (Prov. 13:12). It may not be that our mates are doing something wrong; it's
simply that we expect too much in some areas.
Our expectations must be met in God alone, and then we will have the right perspective
to ask God for the healing and grace we need to respond to others.
How sad that we give more grace to others than to those in our own homes. Today, try
to look at your husband through eyes of grace. Verbally thank your husband for what he
is already doing.

This was yesterdays Challenge. I know how difficult it is at times to think Positive and find things to praise your husband for....While I am not currently having a problem with this, I do need to thank him for it verbally and to show him more that I appreciate all that he does. I do however know of a young woman who is having problems with this and with blaming her husband for all the problems they do have, everything is his fault. While I have been there, and know what is going on, and I know how my situation was handled, I was wondering if any of yall have any suggestions and ideas for how to help her and him.

On the homeschool side of life, we are doing good! I have almost worked all my curriculum plans out, and am working on a daily and weekly schedule. The girls are really enjoying doing Starfall
I am reading over all my Charlotte Mason books. Whew...I never knew I could love to read a book about education....

I will post more soon over on my homeschool blog.

I am so ready for fall! We have our fall decorations in a tote in the girls closet, and everytime we open the closet door, we can smell the candles.....pumpkin pie, mulled cider, apple pie....yum. We are so ready for the cooler days of leaving the oven on with baking....

That is about all for today...sorry for the rambling.

Blessings
Crystal

Husband Encouragement Challenge

2009-08-18T06:47:00.002-05:00

Have you ever thought about how many different ways that you tear your house down with your words? Actions? I finished up the book Biblical Womanhood the other night.....there was a chapter in it about how the foolish woman tears down her house..........I had never thought about how I tear down my house with my words. I know some of you are probably going to *gasp* at that but I never had. I was raised in a rebellious house so it never struck me as wrong to be sassy. I have gotten better over the last 6 yrs of marriage. My husband says that I am pretty submissive, and have really put a guard on my tongue.

But the book got me to thinking about what else I do that is foolish. I dont always just take what Paul says in front of people....sometimes I have to stick my opinion in there and make him feel little and not worth alot.

Then Sunday, Day 5 of the H.E.C. Was about this
Day Five:
"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for
necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers." Eph. 4:29

Yeah bad day for that! We had more words than I can think of. But when I got home and was reading Biblical Womanhood, I realized that I should have just shut my mouth. I was being very foolish.

Yesterday was better, Today is going good so far. I have been up both mornings this week to see him off to work which he really enjoys. He doesnt like leaving without someone to tell him bye!

Todays challenge.......
Day Seven:
"Do not overwork to be rich; because of your own understanding, cease!...for riches
certainly make themselves wings..." Prov. 23:4-5
"That I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, that I may fill their treasuries."
Proverbs 8:21
Money is the root of much marital discord. Ask yourself, "Am I being negative toward my
husband in the area of finances?" Determine not to speak evil of your husband in this
area. Discover ways to encourage and help him instead..........

Thats just part of it..... But I am going to try really hard today, to not only build my house up, but to build my husband up! I dont want to be the foolish woman who tears her house down.......not only with words but with actions too.....

Oddly enough, I am also on Day 3 of the Power of a Praying Wife......guess what today is.. His Finances!

Share with me though, some ways that we can build up our homes and our husbands!!!! And how is yoru challenge going?

The getting up early, I'm getting there, I was lazy a couple of days, but mostly, I have been up at 6 or earlier.....this morning, my alarm was set for 5:30, Paul turned it off instead of snoozing it, and told me to go back to sleep, I tried I really did, but it seems like my body was ready to face the day, now if I could just do something about the circles around my eyes :0)........

Progress......

2009-08-14T18:57:00.002-05:00

I have been making progress....I was up early for two days and then I was up most of last night with Jason fighting a cold...so Paul kindly told me to go back to bed this morning. I am planning on keeping on with it though...Praying that Jason is not sick again tonight.

Thanks goes to my dear Sister who is joining me in this...and to Kelli my dear blogging friend. I know I for one need all the ecouragement and help I can get.

The Husband Encouragement Challenge hasnt been going too well....I picked a bad week to start back on it :( I also had jury duty today and worrying about what I was going to do with the kids made me really grouchy and snappy and just all out miserable to live with. I realized about 2 am this morning that I shouldnt have worried at all and that I really had nothing to worry about because My God was taking care of me.

So, making progress. I am learning to lean on the Lord again....( I tend to forget this often also and try to do it all myself) I am in a better mood and have not once snapped at my husband today....He says this is encouragement enough for him.

Now if I can just work on habit forming in the children at the same time, I will be doing really really good!

Thank You Julie and Kelli.....your support and encouragement is greatly appreciated!

Blessings
Crystal

Up Early! and Husband Encouragement!

2009-08-12T07:41:00.004-05:00

I am starting in on trying to make it up early again! I know that I should never have quit this, but I did, I let circumstances in my life get my routine all off and now I am behind like you wouldnt believe.

So today, I am starting the Challenge of getting up early again....It takes 21 days to form a habit, so today, I am officially starting.....I will take Sundays off, but Monday through Saturday, I will be up at 6:00 am or earlier. 21 Days will be up on Sept 1st. I know last time I did this for 28 days but this time, we are just going for 21 days.

Join me if you will! I am so ready to do this!

Also, I am going to start this again!

30 Day Husband Encouragement Challenge!

I will be starting this Monday August 17th. I of course will not be posting on this every day as I have discovered that I have less time for Blogging than I used to. But if you wish to join in and leave comments to help others along the way I will gladly welcome them.

Now, I have to go wake up the little blessings and get started on our day...lots to do!

Blessings
Crystal

Hard to believe.....

2009-07-21T12:46:00.002-05:00

That they already have fall stuff out at the stores. Its crazy. I just finished buying summer stuff for the girls and they already have long sleeves and are putting out fall flowers and pumpkins....and the magazines are already starting fall stuff......

The past few days have felt alot like fall around here and it has made me long for the cooler days and fall colors.

I cant wait to get started on some new decorating projects. I will try to share them, but as you may have noticed, I have been absent alot. Hopefully that will change soon!

Blessings
Crystal.

Some recent events in our life......

2009-06-10T08:46:00.003-05:00

A group pic of the kids.....This was not jasons best day to take pictures..very few came out okay.

Alaina being the dare devil she is ....

Kylie, going to join sissy.....

Jason, wondering if he dares to pull the flowers or run....He ran.

Alaina being silly....

My monkeys, I think they really really wanted to climb this tree...

This is what we did in between torrential downpours.....played in the mud puddles...what else. lol

and again....Kylie was running from Alaina and her bowl of water...only after Kylie had poured water on Alaina.

Buffalo or Bison whichever you call them. We call them Buffalo. They were at the place that we took a mini vacation.

Baby Buffalo....This is as close as I dared to get to them with the mommas around. I really wish I had a bigger lens for my camera. One thing at a time though....

A deer on our vacation...

The kiddos after a long day in the car....cause it rained most of our mini vacation so there was not any time to get out and run around....but they were great for being in the car for so long....

My Best Friend!

2009-05-14T12:46:00.003-05:00

As I have went through the last couple of weeks, I have found more and more to be in prayer about. As a family, we are struggling right now to just let God have it all and not worry about it. I have several friends who are having marital problems and I cant stand to see them hurting. I have family members who are going through so many struggles.

I have found myself thinking about how I used to pray and talk to God like he was my best friend. I realized that I dont do that anymore.....or should I say didnt. I have thought about it seriously over the last few months. But never did...until the other night, I found myself in the shower (tmi I know) on my knees praying and talking to God. I was talking to Him like He was my best friend. And He is my best friend. He is....and that feels so good! So now, during this time when it feels like the world is crushing me, I have found myself on my knees alot....enjoying conversations with my Best Friend....

And you know what, all these problems that my friends and family and I have, dont look so bad anymore.......

Blessings
Crystal

Bringing my Faith back into Focus!

2009-05-03T14:48:00.002-05:00

For my Birthday, I got to go to a Christian bookstore and shop...while my husband sat in a little kids chair with our blessings and colored...so cute I wish I had taken my camera to get a picture but how was I to know that he was going to insist that I go shop and hold my selections hostage so I couldnt put some of them back...(I have this bad habit of second guessing what I am buyin because I feel guilty for buying stuff for myself..so I will put stuff back and get things for others. ) Well he had me bring my stuff to him every few minuts and I couldnt put it back on the shelf.

Anyway, I chose the movie "Faith Like Potatoes" Excellant movie by the way. We have been wanting to watch this movie for a while and were waiting on the money to order it. Oh Man! I needed that movie... Not to ruin the movie, but how often do we have Faith enough to do something when everyone else says it wont work? How often do we really listen to what God wants us to do, and then do it with the FAITH that HE will make it work?

Watch the movie, It makes you think about all the things that you havent done because you were scared it wouldnt work. Or you really didnt believe it could happen.

On another note, I have been having a hard time having enough patience with my kids. I get mad at them for little things, I expect them to be perfect when they already are, they are exactly the way God made them and that is perfect. I have been having problems with my Faith in myself as a mother and wife. I dont ever think that I am good enough. I dont have enough FAITH in myself. When reading through my blog list today, and scanning blogs (which I havent been doing alot of lately) I came across this again. It made me realize that I had quit doing this and maybe if I start doing this again, or at least start praying for my kids more, I might have a better day....and the next be better, and the next. I have FAITH that if I put enough effort into being a better wife and mother, that God will help me along.

There is a book that I picked up at the store. It is called "Mothers of the Bible" by Dena Dyer. I have only read a few pages but it is very interesting and uplifting. Makes me realize that I'm not the only one who has bad days and I am not the only one who needs to drop to my knees several times a day and pray.

I am going to try to get back to blogging more. I really miss it but this time away from it has mad me focus on things that I need to fix in my life.

Blessings
Crystal

hmmmm

2009-04-28T15:35:00.002-05:00

I know I know it has been a long time since I posted.

I do have a thought today though. Just one :)

There is a saying going around on the web, mostly on myspace but it has made me think.
The saying.

A Womens Heart Should be so lost in God

That a man needs to seek Him to find her.

What are your thoughts on this?

My Babies......Homeschool

2009-04-02T09:53:00.002-05:00

If one thing over the years keeps me homeschooling through all the trials and all the frustrating days, it will be the fact that everytime I get frustrated, my kids start singing Christian Songs! Thats right, they dont know any other songs. All they know are Church Hymns and Praise and Worship songs....and thats what they do when Momma is about ready to pull her hair out...

Gotta love my precious babies! Thank YOU GOD!

Blessings
Crystal

Prayers

2009-03-13T19:06:00.002-05:00

I am requesting prayers for my family. There are lots of different things going on but just a few of them....

My uncle Edwin, a dear uncle that has been an inspiration in our spiritual walk, has cancer and they have given him one to three weeks to live. We really arent expecting him to make it through the weekend.

My sister Julie had a tooth pulled last week and is still hurting from it. Please pray tha ther pain is eased.

Our oldest sister and her husband are having some problems and they really need prayers right now. They are some wonderful people and it hurts to see them hurting. Please pray for them.

And last but not least, My best friend, was put on bed rest this week. She is 36 weeks pregnant and her blood pressure is up. Please pray that she can get the rest that she needs for her baby to stay in a couple more weeks. Please pray for her husband who is taking care of her and their little boy while she rest and Pray that when she does deliver, that she has a safe delivery and tha the baby is heathy.

Thank You and Blessings
Crystal.

Happy 4th Birthday Alaina!

2009-03-11T07:24:00.003-05:00

Yesterday my middle child, the one that I worried wouldnt get here, turned 4! 4 can you believe it.

Alaina, I really didnt think that you would get into this world safe. You were stubborn and a mess while I carried you. The doctor was never sure that you were definately a girl, I was sicker with you than with the others, and then you had some heart beat issues that scared us all like crazy. But when time came for you to come out, you didnt waste any time. And that is how you have stayed. In fast gear!

You are a rotten mess as you like to tell us. But we cant help but love you. You can take anyone you want to and wrap them around your finger....Its amazing to watch.

You are probably going to be my farm girl. You would rather play in the dirt or with the dogs than with the dishes and dolls.

My sweet "Lainda Bear" I love you more everyday and pray that you will grow up to be a loving God fearing woman who wont beat up all the boys who try to date you. lol. Please stay strong and always be daddy's little girl.

We love you mommy, daddy and the rest of us.

I will try to add some pictures later, I am in the process of redoing my computer.

A different ATTITUDE!!!

2009-03-08T14:34:00.003-05:00

Yeah I need a different attitude. I have been working on it and I am getting there. Slowly. I have been reading alot of blogs lately (did you ever notice that soemtimes there is a theme with the blogs...? ) that are talking about mask and attitudes and living life for God and not for ourselves.

One of my favorite songs right now is Stained Glass Masquarade by Casting Crowns. I love it. It is awesome. "Are we happy plastic people..." Well are we? I can tell you right now that I am not happy being plastic, wearing my mask, whatever you want to call it. I dont like being fake, I dont like for people to read my blog and think that I have the perfect life or wonder how I get it all done. I DONT! My laundry is piled up right now, my dishes from lunch need done, my garden needs the onions planted, and my toenails arent painted. But my kids are happy (or at least will be when they wake up because they get to go outside and play. ) My family got fed, and I am relaxing. Which makes me happy. The laundry will get put up sometime tommorow, after school and play time and all that, the dishes will get done after everyone goes to bed tonight, and my toenails...well, they may never get painted again..just because I am like that, I would rather play outside than in and when your outside, getting dirty, you really dont care what color you nails are of if your dishes are done.

I have thought a lot this past 6 months on what everyone else thinks, I have worried about whether or not me training my kids would affect others living with me. I have let my priorities get flip flopped because People that I am worried about affecting dont know how to let kids be kids. I have never been one to make sure that every little scrap of paper or every little toy is picked up. That has become my priority this past few months instead of whether or not my kids are enjoying life and being kids. I am starting to get back to letting them enjoy. Yes I will teach them that they should pick up after theirselves, and yes they should respect other peoples property (others should respect theirs also .....) but they will be kids and the will have fun. Lifes too serious not to enjoy what you can of it.

So if you have wondered why I have been absent from blogging alot it has been because I didnt feel like I could get on here and blog when I knew it would be fake, it would be me trying to convince the world and myself that I am okay. I am okay. I am sometimes depressed, anxious, procrastinator, goofy, loving, praying wife and mother. Hence the title of my blog. I am a praying mom of 3 (4....I pray for Jack now more than ever. )

I pray that I will be a Godly wife and mother. I pray that I am able to teach my kids how to be Godly. I pray that My children will grow up respecting us as parents and as Christian Brothers and Sister. I pray that I am doing right in the Lord. I PRAY!......

So from here on out, I am going to have a different attitude. In life, on this blog (when I post, which wont be often) and most importantly, in my heart.

Happy Birthday Julie

2009-03-06T10:59:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday to my wonderful sis Julie. I dont know where I would be today without the support of this wonderful Christian lady.

I love you sissy.

Crystal

Jason (aka Rooskie Bear)

2009-03-01T08:05:00.000-06:00

Two years ago today, my Jason Bear was born. I remember waiting those last few weeks because he hurt so bad I just wanted him out. Now I wish I could make time stand still and keep him a baby forever. He is getting so big. He tells me "My Big Momma". Yes he is growing up. He is my mischievious, sweet, all boy little boy. And smart! Way to smart for this momma. He is only two and he already counts with the girls and says his abc's when they do.

He loves his tractors too, and horses and trains....(or in Jason language..choo choo Prounounced shoo shoo...lol) He is hilarious.

I cant wait to see what he becomes as he grows. But then again, cant he just stay little forever.
My mom got him a shirt for his birthday, it is a size 5t, I figured it was way to big and put it up for summer...late summer, He pulled it out and wanted to wear it. It fit him! He cant possible be growing that fast.

I will try to post some pictures next week sometime. We are having Cupcakes and a little party for him and Alaina tommorow. (hers is the 10th).

Blessings
Crystal

A Mother's Joys

2009-02-25T14:28:00.001-06:00

As A Mother, I Must

faithfully, patiently,

lovingly, and happily do

my part--then quietly

wait for God to do His.

Ruth Bell Graham

Please pray for Jason!

2009-02-19T07:17:00.004-06:00

UPDATE!!!! Jason is some better, he got his last shot today and he goes back next week for a checkup. Thank you for your prayers and keep praying please that he is healed.

I took Jason to the Dr. Tuesday for a cough....He has Pneumonia (sp). It seems like it is going around in our house but I sure hope not. Anyway, He got two shots Tuesday, one yesterday and goes in this morning for another one and to check and see if he is better or worse.

Please pray that he is better, I really really dont want my baby to have to go in the hospital. That would not be fun at all. Although, if that is what he needs I will do it, But I also know prayer works wonders so please pray! I will update when I get a chance today. He is a work in at the Dr this morning so I dont know when I will get home.

Blessings
Crystal

Happy Birthday Claire Bear!

2009-02-15T09:23:00.000-06:00

Yep thats right, our Claire Bear, my precious long awaited niece is 4 today......

There is so much to say about this precious little angel, this gift from God. But for now, I cant believe she is 4....it seems like yesterday, we were all crowded in the waiting room, taking turns going in to be with Julie and Charlie, and then waiting on news that she was here....we were so impatient, that we stood in the hallway that had a sign that read "No loitering..." lol.

Ohh I miss you Claire Bear! Come see me soon! Love Aunt Crystal, Uncle Paul, KylieLaina, Jason, Jack and Amber.

A Bloggin Break

2009-02-05T06:39:00.003-06:00

As I sit here watching the sun rise with Jason curled up next to me with his favorite blanky, I pause to think that I need some time to reflect and regroup. It seems my life has been on "really really fast" here lately and I cant slow down. As I prayed this morning, praying for my husband and my kids and for patience and understanding for myself, it seemed like God was telling me to slow down and enjoy my kids a little more.

So one of the things I am going to cut out for this next few days, is my computer. I will probably still check in on a few blogs and see how everyone is but dont expect any post on here.

I will still be doing the 30 day Husband Encouragement Challenge that Kelli is hosting, but I wont be posting on it. It has been such a blessing these last few days to focus on a specific area for Paul. And bless his heart, he is at work again today. He did take two days off to recover and get well..(In case you havent heard, he had pneumonia, his doctor wanted him in the hospital but of course being self pay, we couldnt afford it, so he got lots of meds instead...He is feeling much better this morning...) So I will keep this up....

Blesings
Crystal

Daybook

2009-02-03T10:40:00.004-06:00

Edited to Add: In case you are wondering about the things I ddint get done yesterday, I had to take Paul to the doctor yesterday evening...what we thought was just a sinus infection, is pneumonia, the doctor wanted to put him in the hospital but because we are self pay patients, she gave him lots of meds first. If he is not better by tommorow, he has to go in the hospital...whether we can afford it or not, so Please Pray that He gets better..... That is my excuse though for the things I didnt get done....taking care of my sweet hubby..

Tuesday's Daybook.....

I got this from my sissy's blog.

Bible Verse.....Colossians 3..Still reading this...its alot to absorb.

Recipe.....(Nothing new trying to eat up what we had to cook so it wouldnt ruin.) Chicken and Dumplings

Activity with kids....Movie Day (Daddy and I have to do taxes)

Todays target cleaning....Laundry

Something Paul needs for me to do.....Be a patient wife while he is home sick and to help him do taxes.

Something Special for my husband....Make sure he has all the DR. Pepper he wants

Something Special for my kids....make Kylie a blanket for her bunny rabbit (Didnt do this yesterday..) ...Play Chutes and Ladders with Alaina.....play tractors with Jason (Again.lol)....

Project.....Make homemade cooking mixes......(Didnt do this yesterday either....)

In our schoolhouse....taking a break to recuperate....

A picture that I love......
The Cousins.....Rose, Kylie, Claire, Sarah and Lily, Alaina..... Missing Drew and Jason...lol.

Daybook.....

2009-02-02T09:44:00.004-06:00

Monday's Daybook.....

I got this from my sissy's blog.

Bible Verse.....Colossians 3..

Recipe.....(Nothing new trying to eat up what we had to cook so it wouldnt ruin.) Steak, Salad, Corn on the Cob

Activity with kids....Park......nough said.

Todays target cleaning....Vacuum...if I still have power when I get back from the Park...lol.

Something Paul needs for me to do.....Mail Flyers for Business.....make doctors appointment (done)....take care of him....:)

Something Special for my husband.....Put SHMILY Somewhere... :) :) :)

Something Special for my kids....make Kylie a blanket for her bunny rabbit...do a puzzle with Alaina.....play tractors with Jason....

Project.....Make homemade cooking mixes......

In our schoolhouse....taking a break to recuperate....

A picture that I love......

This is my Uncle Danny, and my nephew Drew....Uncle Danny was and is a very influential person in my life. While I have lots of uncles and everyone of them are special, he has always been there for everything...I just cant say enough about him. And Drew......well, I cant wait to see him again...he is just so precious... (and yes sis, I stole this pic out of yours...lol....love ya..)

I have lots of post in the works and lots of things to do today...and this week. but I will post as I get them done. I may do this daybook everyday, it makes me think about what I have to do and what I have to be grateful for.

Many Blessings

Crystal

Husband Encouragement Challenge!

2009-02-02T06:07:00.002-06:00

I am so excited. And yes, I know this is a day late but I have good excuses and I was doing it yesterday.....I just didnt have any power to post. Our power has been going on and off for the last three days...... Anyway.

My good blogging friend Kelli is hosting the "30 Day Husband Encouragement Challenge" I have done this before and I loved it. Every time I do it, I can tell a difference in our marriage and my husband but most importantly in myelf...I am not the nagging, unattentive wife that I tend to lapse into. I have joked that I need to do this every day, like a "365 day husband encouragement challenge". But honestly, I need to have to desire to do this. "The Love Dare" is helping me alot in this area. But that is for another post.

If you want to follow along, you can go to Kelli's Blog and follow with her, or you can go to This directly and do it anytime. I will not neccesarily be posting every day, just as time permits but I will be following along with Kelli.

DAY ONE!
"The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain. She does
him good and not evil all the days of her life." Prov. 31:11-12

To help you get started, have you ever thanked your husband for "choosing you" above
all other women? He found you attractive as a person, and appreciated you. Though
many circumstances in your marriage may have changed, let your husband know that
you are glad God led you together, and that you want to be a blessing to him for the rest
of your marriage. Let him know that he can trust you to be in his corner

And Just because I am behind a day in posting......

DAY TWO!
"...through love serve one another." Gal. 5:13b

Today, find some way that your husband is serving you or your family. Does he help
around the house? Take care of the car? Fix things that are broken? If your budget
allows, give him a new, small tool with a big bow attached. But make sure he doesn't
think it's part of a "Honey Do" list!

I did let me husband know that I love hime for choosing me. I cant believe that he would pick me out of how many other women. But I am so glad he did.

Today, I know my husband is serving our family. I told him this this morning and again when I talked to him on the phone a little bit ago. He is working today with pneumonia....bad pneumonia. But he does it so we dont have to worry about money and so we dont have to struggle. Yes he is going to the doctor today ( I finally got him in). But the thing is he doesnt have to work today, we are doing okay enough that he could have took the day off.....but he had people counting on him and he knows that we count on the extra money to get to do cool stuff with the kids....like go see cousins and friends. And he has helped so much around here....he always does, but this week has been especially rough....(long story for another post....) but he has kept our generator going so that we have power for our fridge so we dont lose food, he has kept lanterns lit so I dont have to worry about it. He watched the kids so I could go grocery shopping by myself, and he went with me to get some groceries because I wasnt feeling real good. He also helped with supper most nights the week before because of my illness. So yes he helps alot, and yes I have told him I appreciate him, and let him know that he is very loved.

I hope you can join in and bless your husband and yourself in this.

Blessings

Crystal

Will be back when I get power back on...

2009-01-29T20:24:00.002-06:00

Due to the Ice Storm that hit Oklahoma, I have no power at my house...I am posting from my mother in laws computer (she lives in town...where they didnt lose power)...

I will be back when I get power.

Blessings
Crystal

Monday...Daybook

2009-01-26T11:11:00.004-06:00

I got this from my sissy's blog.

Bible Verse.....The book of Proverbs...Currently on Chapter 4.

Recipe.....(Nothing new) Crockpot Beans, Fried Potatoes w/smoked sausages

Activity with kids....Paper Dolls, Listening to Nursery Rhymes, Edible Playdough..

Todays target cleaning....Not feeling well so just basic cleaning.

Something Paul needs for me to do.....Put labels on Flyers for business....

Something Special for my husband.....Clean his office....(if I am feeling better)

Something Special for my kids....mend their toys that they have brought me....

Project.....Clean out my book basket (this is something I can do while relaxing)

In our schoolhouse....watching the weather and waiting on the ice...hehe....

A picture that I love......Julies is a memory today, I think I will just do pictures that I love.

and yes, Paul was standing behind him, this is just an example of what my son does......

Blessings

Crystal

He did it.....

2009-01-23T16:34:00.003-06:00

Read This. Please pray for our nation. Pray for our leader.

Crystal

I had such a good time tonight!!!!! MNO!

2009-01-19T23:13:00.001-06:00

For those of you who didnt read the post before this, MNO is Moms night out...and I had a blast....Go on over to our homeschool blog to find out what happened!

Blessings
Crystal

Mom's Night Out!

2009-01-19T17:53:00.002-06:00

I get to go to my first Mom's Night Out...or MNO tonight. I missed the last two months because of sick kids and holidays. So I am excited....I will probably post about it on my homeschool blog tommorow! So come on over and see what I have to say!

Gotta go get ready now.. (and no I am not leaving Paul to cook....supper is in the crockpot!)

Blessings
Crystal

What Obama is up to.....

2009-01-19T17:46:00.000-06:00

I found this link today on Cnn news while reading up on some news.....

http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/19/obama.abortion/index.html

All I can say is go read it for yourself.....this is who our nation elected as our leader.

In Prayer
Crystal

More on Happenings and Alaina

2009-01-15T09:24:00.002-06:00

Well, I said in my last post that I have alot going on around here. My physical house is almost all in order. I still have to get to the girls room, (which Kylie cleaned yesterday almost completely on her own)... our office...which is a complete mess and my laundry room.

My spiritual house is getting there. We are getting back on track with the Love Dare, I am starting to get in my Bible reading every day, although I have not been getting up at 6, (sick kids...) I have been doing my reading. I have been trying to get back into reading blogs and while I may not comment on everyone, I am trying to "surf" three or four a day to catch up.

I also am doing something that I have been battling for a long time. I have battled depression ever since I can remember. I have always been a fighter, I did things to keep me busy instead of letting depression drag me down.....not that I am not still fighting, just that it is not working somuch anymore.. I will save the rest for a later post that I am working on but lets just say that after my last depressive period, Paul and I talked and I now have an appointment with a doctor that I trust to try to get a handle on this......I will post on more as soon as I feel I am able....just keep us in your prayers as I am dealing with this. If any of you deal with depression, then you know what I am talking about.

Alaina, the latest of my sick kids....(between the virus and allergies, it has been a rough couple of weeks. Alaina has the latest round of coughs and just plain feeling cruddy. It is a mix between allergies and bronchitis....their doctor put her on a nebulizer until the coughing stops and then I have it in case they need it. So I am staying home with them until this weekend when I have to go get groceries...I would really love to go to the library but not with her being as sick as she is and RSV going around....Plus she is on a steroid for the bronchitis...which means her immune system is lower...We've been this round with Jason and Kylie in the last couple of weeks.

So here is what I am thankful for today!!!!! I am thankful that I have a warm house in which to keep my babies while they get well. I am thankful that the water doesnt freeze in the whole house stil, just one end of it. lol. I am thankful that it is SNOWING today....flurries but my babies are getting to see snow. I am thankful that my hubby is getting extra days at work this week and next. I am thankful that it is a three paycheck month....money to pay off a bill!!!! I am thankful that I have an understanding husband and that he encourages me and doesnt put me down when I feel like I need to get help. I am thankful for my family (here and everywhere) that I know they will be there for me when I need it, no matter what it is.... I am thankful for Church Family (here and everywhere) that they are uplifting and encouraging. I am thankful for my almost clean house and that I have the health and ability to clean it. I am thankful for Moms night out....to give me a little break and get with other moms who go through what I do every day. I am thankful that I serve a just God and a loving God!!!!! and that I still have the freedom to serve HIM!

Blessings to all
Crystal

Encouraging and Eye opening post..

2009-01-14T08:19:00.002-06:00

Kelly over at Embracing the Journey, has a very uplifting, truthful, eye opening...post up. It is a couple of audio clips from Dr. Voddie Baucham. Very uplifting.

Please go read.

Blessings
Crystal

Happenings....

2009-01-12T10:18:00.002-06:00

Well,,,,, WE have been busy.....and sick....but mostly just busy because we were sick with everything else going on.

The week of Christmas, we went to see my family.. Kylie and I ended up with a bad virus....badddd. I dont know where we got it from. After we came home, we had approximately 1 week to get finishing touches done for Jack and Ambers wedding. Jason got sick and is still not feeling exactly like Jason... By this past Monday, I thought everyone was all better but Monday evening, Alaina and Paul ended up with it...so Paul was down all day Tuesday and Tuesday morning, Jack called Amber to come get him from his granny's because he wasnt feeling good and he didnt want to get everyone over there sick. So Tuesday, Amber, Kylie and I took care of Jack, Paul and Alaina and changed Jasons diaper about every 5 minutes....

Amber and I were supposed to have left Tuesday evening to go south and prepare for the wedding. We ended up leaving Wednesday afternoon.

Saturday, January 1o 2009, Jack and Amber became husband and wife. I am so proud of both of them and how far they have come in their walk of life and with God. It is amazing how he has worked in their lives.....

I hopefully will have pictures to put up this week. The photographer, Ambers aunt, is supposed to be getting them to us. I did not have my camera, I was in the wedding with Jason, and Julie was supposed to bring my camera and take pictures, but her babies got sick...so that is okay, Trust me, there were plenty of pictures taken.

I also have some new pictures of the kids and other updates on our lives.

For the next week, or month, you are very likely to just get little updates from me here and there, I am going to be occupied with getting my "house" back in order. We have lots of cleaning, getting school back on track and child training to get back to. I have let my house go for far too long.....all for a good cause, but it needs to get back on track. And Paul may be working alot longet hours before too long...(He may have some jobs coming up to make extra bill money...YAY Paying off bills feels so great!)

For now, I hope and pray that everyone is doing good and that your lives are as blessed as mine.

Crystal

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

2008-12-23T11:30:00.004-06:00

I was going to post some pictures on here today but Blogger is not letting me. I will try to get them posted next week WE are going to my familys for the holidays and they have dial up internet and I am too impatient to try to work with that so for now, I leave you with this....

Crystals Chicken Enchilada Soup.

2008-12-22T06:04:00.002-06:00

I was running low on groceries the other night and my dear oldest child and his fiance had fixed what I had on the menu for that night, but a different night...so essentially, my groceries werent there to fix what I had planned (I thanked them for fixing supper that night but wondered how I was going to replace this meal..lol) Well, looking through my freezer and my pantry, this is what I came up with....

2 frozen bonless skinless chicken breast.
3 cans cream of mushrrom soup
1 soup can of milk
1 can Rotel
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt to taste,
1/4 lb Velveeta, cubed.
Leftover tortilla chips and tortillas.
Sour Cream

I put a can of soup in the bottom of the crock pot, put the chicken breast on top of it, poured in the other two cans of soup, milk and rotel. Added spices. Stir. Cook on High for 4-6 hrs. At about 5 hours (before if you want...) I added the Velveeta and came back and stirred one or two times.

I was hoping for a thick mixture to make enchiladas out of but it turned out really soupy. So we just put some tortilla's and tortilla chips in a bowl and added soup and sour cream. Yummmmmm My hubby loved it and even my picky oldest child ate two bowls. I think if I fix it again though, I will double it.

My unannounced blogging break...and my 300th post!

2008-12-17T13:05:00.002-06:00

Yeah I guess I have been on a break, unannounced yes but very needed. I dont know when I will get back to regular posting. This is my 300th post though! Interesting, I had no idea I had posted so much or so little depending on how you look at it.

My blogging time has been taken up with time with the kids and at night, my extra time has been occupied with ..... are you ready for this? "The Love DARE"! We started doing this 11 days ago and it is going great. Paul and I wanted to do it, and with Jack and Amber getting married in January, they are joining in.

A few words about it, when we decided to do it, the first few days it seemed that the Devil was trying his hardest to keep us from succeeding, but once we realized this and said "GET BEHIND ME SATAN" it was so easy to read the dare each night and the next day, actually use what we had read to better our relationship, and not to say that there arent little spats..here and there, and Paul and I have actually realized that over the past 6 months, we have actually been doing alot of this stuff, just to try to make our marriage better, without a book, but this book is helping so much.... I encourage anyone to try it, whether you think you have a good "Unconditional Love" marriage or not, try it. 40 days and you wont regret it...

On other notes, I am almost through with my Christmas preperations. I have a few more gifts to finish up and some food to make and I will be done. I hope to finish it up this week and then Monday and Tuesday will be spent packing for our trip south to my parents for the Holidays.... I am so excited, I get to see my family.

Other than that, there is not much more to report and I am out of time for today. I have to get back to my projects and get food ready for Bible Study tonight.

Much Love and Blessings and Happy Holidays to all...
Crystal

A full plate...

2008-11-30T14:16:00.002-06:00

In light of my Sisters Blogging break, just a bit of wisdom..

If you take a plate, (in my case, I need a huge plate..) a regular size dinner plate out of your cabinet. Put it on the table. Take a piece of paper, and cut 1x1 squares out of it. (I neede three pieces of paper). On these 1x1 squares, write what you have to do in your life...your day to day living. Such as , daily bible reading or as I call it, my quiet time. write down dishes, floors, laundry, homeschool if you do this, work if you go to work, write each kids name on a different square, write your spouses name on a square, groceries, bills, anyone that you visit on a regular basis, PTA meetings if your child is in school...homeschool coop, homeschool kids play day, moms night out, CHURCH!!!! hunting,

Anything that is considered a to do for you. write each item or person on a square....

Now take a piece of paper....write GOD on it in big bold letters. place this sheet on the plate...now pile all your 1x1 squares on top of the paper. Do they fall off of the plate? Can you still see GOD underneath everything? I couldnt.

Now take it all off except GOD. And slowly sort through them and put only the important ones on there....but make sure you can see GOD through it all.....

This was my new priorities....

Paul, Jack, Kylie, Alaina, Jason, House (this included laundry, dishes, cooking), playday, moms night out, mom, dad, mom2, dad2, CHURCH, hunting.

I could still see GOD through this...If I added one more thing, then I couldnt see God through it. So I stuck with this. If you are wondering why I put Church closer to the end, it is because our Church pretty much takes care of itself. Yeah we have activities. but I am not soley in charge of anything, we all work together to get stuff done. I put my parents and pauls parents on there because they are getting older and I feel I need to check up on them more often. God, Paul, the kids (which includes teaching them and being a mom,) take up most of my time. We have play day once a month and moms night out once a month. They dont take up that much time.

Jack is going to be getting married in January. So while I will still worry about him as any parent would, I wont have the sole responsibility for him anymore, so he will come off of my top priorities.....not saying I dont love him, but he wants to get out on his own and grow up and make his mistakes and learn from them. So I am going to try to let him. But with him off of my plate, does that mean I am going to add another one....no, I am going to use my extra time to spread out between the other priorities and myself....

So there, do this, see what all you have going. I wish I could remember where I found it but I cant so just trust me on this one....It is a real eye opener...

Blessigs

Crystal

My Holiday Songs

2008-11-26T14:06:00.001-06:00

I just couldnt resist putting Holiday songs on my music player already. I am going to put more songs on as I find them and yes I love the Chipmunks they are so cute. But if you dont like them, then just mute the sound....

Blessings
Crystal

Lifting Hands Weekly Prayers

2008-11-21T11:28:00.003-06:00

I came across this while reading past prayers on Lifting Hands....

Teach me Your ways, enable me to obey Your commandments and do only what is pleasing in Your sight. May the beauty of Your Spirit be so evident in me that I will be a godly role model. Amen.

"The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him." Proverbs 20:7

Week of Oct 26, 2008.

I know there are alot of times that I am not a Godly example for my children. I Know I could be better. Maybe doing the prayers off of this blog during the week will help me.

Blessings

Crystal

Some things I have found lately..

2008-11-13T07:23:00.004-06:00

What little time I have had on the computer here lately has been spent doing school stuff and research for a friend. But I have had a few extra minutes with sick kids piled up on the couch and resting. So here are some things I have found that I have started trying to do but not neccesarily posting about as I just dont have the time.

I will be putting a button on my sidebar too. I think this is a great idea. Praying for your kids seven times a day seven days a week.

The Love Dare! This is a wonderful thing to do. Paul and I plan on seeing the movie this weekend if possible (babysitters...) and we are going to take Jack and Amber and then we plan on doing the 40 day challenge. We are even thinking about getting the Couples Kit to do...

Making Your Home a Haven! I love this. I have been working on my home, not in the exact order she has because I didnt find this before yesterday but it is a really neat plan. Please go over and take a look.

My sister has a daybook. The idea was from the Simple womans daybook..but altered to fit her needs. I have been doing this and tweaking it as I go....I havent been poting it but I have been doing it.

And my all time favorite recipe that I tried this week! Autumn Chowder from Heritage Schoolhouse. Oh you must try this...it is delicious..everyone in our house loved it.

Blessings to all..

Crystal

Changes in our Life...

2008-11-10T14:42:00.002-06:00

Our house is full of changes here lately. But before I get into them, I want to say a little about the weekend meeting that we attended at the church that I grew up in. We left Friday afternoon to go down to it, before we had even made it an hour, my glasses broke...so we had to go to a wal mart vision center to have the lenses put in new frames....well, they messed up my lenses so now I am having headaches...and I have to get new glasses anyway. It was an awful evening, we did not even make it to Church Friday night.

Saturday, we went to a fall festival and seen lots of beautiful stuff and ate wonderful food. Saturday evening services, we got to listen to a wonderful man speak and boy did he step on my toes... Lets just say that after his lesson, My day Friday was WONDERFUL!!!! Did you hear that JERRY? WONDERFUL!

Jerry spoke about how we are not supposed to let others or events dictate how our day is. And we gripe about our days and we gripe about what we have to do but JESUS DIED ON THE CROSS!!!! HE HUNG ON A CROSS WITH NAILS IN HIS HANDS AND FEET AND A CROWN OF THORNS ON HIS HEAD FOR US AND WE GRIPE ABOUT BEING TIRED!!!!

Nope No more Jerry, I wont gripe...My days are wonderful and marvelous and I am doing great...lol.

I am sure that Jerry had more points in his lesson, and I am sure that they were great also. And I do remember alot of them...this is just the one that stepped on my toes the hardest. I also had three or four kids around me making noise so I couldnt hear all that well...but I am not griping, their sounds are so musical.

The changes in our life have been for the better we think. Last week, my parents took the girls home with them for 3 days. I managed to get alot done around the house without them. I organized my file cabinets, I organized their room, my room, went through a bunch of clothes, got homeschool stuff caught up on and done lots of Bible reading.

When we came home from the meeting, Jacks fiance came home with us. He is going to be staying in our camp trailer and she will be staying with us until their wedding. (This is cheaper than driving 4 hours each way to see each other...they need to save all they can. ) So we are adjusting to having her here...not real hard since she fits right in.

We are adjusting to having Daddy home more since he has not been working as much and with that comes adjusting to not as much money. Its tough but in the spirit of Jerrys lesson, we are still alive and eating... :) See I'm smiling Jerry...Its a good day..

The Church group where we went saw the movie FIREPROOF this weekend. Paul and I did not get to go because we had to come back home and get him ready for work today. They said it was awesome...and we want to go see it...Please theater have it this weekend...(we live in a little town with a one movie theater.. THANK GOD FOR THE ONE MOVIE!!!) Just please let it be FireProof this week... anyway, Julie wrote about it.

I am going to try to write more inspirational and helpful stuff on this blog.....I just feel the need to get our Christian viewpoints out there. So we will see what I come up with.

Blessings
Crystal

Pictures from our Campout at Church!!!

2008-11-06T08:36:00.007-06:00

Our Fall Church Campout!!!!!

This is what we started out the evening doing....laying block around the bottom of the building.. My Hubby and Robert (a very dear friend of ours..)

Setting up the tents...That is my Alaina bear and Mark (a new guy at Church.) I think she was chasing Ethan....lol.

The kids and Keith getting the fire going....

The little Fire Bug of the Night....keeping the fire going...

Curious Monsters arent they.. :)

Kristy and I being silly with Cameras... and Lil Rob in the background...although he isnt so little anymore... (sigh)

These two boys (Alex and Sammy) have more fun scaring the girls....even when they are not dressed up... and "Dorthy"...aka Alison

Almost time to cook Hot Dogs....yummmmm...(Dorthy, Darrel, Jeremy, Jack, Jake, Keith, Lil Rob)

Waiting on Food...lol Most of the kids are in this pic...and alot of the grown ups...

I'm not sure if Jack was cooking for the kids or for himself....hmmm...Julie and Ali in the background.

The little Fire Bug...lol Ethan. Isnt he a cutie..

I was sittin down holding a sleeping baby and so the pictures arent the best. I do love the scenery from our Church....So pretty,,,even prettier in the mornings when the fog is lifting...Oh what a way to wake up...(Can I live at Church..lol) I was enjoying it so much that I didnt get any pictures of the next morning though...Sorry.

We have Nine kids that regularly attend our Church... ages (9, 7,6, 5, 4, 3(2 of them) 1-1/2, and 10mths) We had guest kids Saturday night and Sunday that were (11, 10, 6,5,3,2,) This is not counting the older kids (Jack and Lil Rob). It was so much fun. We are a very loving family Church...The comment was once made that we spend more time with our Church Family than we do our relatives...and it is true...but that is the way it should be...Your Church Family should be more important..(unless you are like me and your relatives are alot of your Church Family...just not in the same town..lol. )

My Hubby has a blog...

2008-11-05T23:39:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to put my husbands blog on here. After months of agrivating me because I have one, he decided he wanted to start one too....

Crucified Christian

Blessings
Crystal

Sad Sad Day for America

2008-11-05T07:50:00.004-06:00

Please read the following blogs for why I am saying this. I am still too saddend and angry over America's decision last night to say much but these post put it into perspective.

http://www.accordingtohispower2.blogspot.com/

http://charliefogg.blogspot.com/2008/11/tuesdays-turnout.html

http://heartofamommytoo.blogspot.com/2008/11/sad-day-this-mourning-in-history-of.html

Sadly
Crystal

Pray for our Nation and Vote!

2008-11-04T09:13:00.002-06:00

According to the polls this morning, Obama is headed toward our Nations Capital. I urge you to pray for our Nation and pray that the right person is put where we need them. I am heading out to vote this evening. This election scares me. I am really afraid for our nation. So I am praying without ceasing. Please join me.

Blessings
Crystal

What we have been up to and Halloween Pictures.

2008-11-03T14:24:00.002-06:00

My princess Bear! She was so cute!

My Grown up girl... The story behind this. When I was asking them what they wanted to be for Halloween, Kylie said she wanted to be a Mommy and when I asked her why.... because Mommy's are the best.. (sniff sniff...tears and lots of them..cause I dont think I am a good mommy alot of times. ) So she was a mommy. So pretty and grown up looking....Made her Daddy cry..

And the following pictures are of what we have been up to here lately. Sadly, the kitten whom Kylie claimed as hers and named Pumpkin because we found him in October, passed on this morning. We found him in our yard about 2 weeks ago, (our dog was playing with him.) He seemed to be about 3 weeks old. He was doing great and last week when it got really cold, he got sick....I have been caring for him and trying to keep him going....but he just wasnt strong enough...needless to say, we are having a sad day....he was pretty special..

Jason and Cat Kitty....not Kitty Cat...but Cat Kitty...so cute.

Alaina and pumpkin. She finally warmed up to him scratching her.

Kylie and her kitty. She gets very attached to things. She is my overly sensitive child. I am trying to think of something to make it better....any suggestions...

I have pictures of our Camp out we had at our Church this weekend for Halloween for the kids. I will try to post them later tonight or tommorow. Right now, I have a 5 yr old who needs comforting.

Blessings

Crystal

2008-10-29T07:00:00.006-05:00

The crew! It is very hard to get them to sit still or even this close together for very long at a time... The girls with Jack riding Molly...

Fun with bubble wrap..Paul had tons of it from work so we have been playing on it on rainy or too cold days..

Jason plays in the Bubble wrap too..he just cant stand it for very long periods of time....

My babies. and yes Alaina almost always has that look on her face..especially when she dont get her way..and Kylie is always that bossy..lol

My baby boy riding molly mule (our uncle Kermits old mule.) with Jesse and Jack helping...He loves horses..I am just too afraid to let him on the bigger ones...I'll take some pics of them in a couple of weekends and you'll see why..lol

I dont think I ever got to share pictures of Kylies Birthday so here are some of that.

Praying over her cupcakes..:)

The Cupcakes

Jason had fun tearing up the bags and stuff....
Alaina opening a puzzle with PaPa and KK on the side..

Kylie and her Granny...This Granny has more fun with them. She is such a big kid...Love Ya Mom...

And that is my pictures for now...I have more I need to get loaded on the computer...but I am haveing lots of other things to do for now...

Many Blessings

Crystal

What I've been up to..

2008-10-28T19:17:00.003-05:00

This is what I have been up to...Paul took Alaina hunting tonight and so I have been playing Life with Kylie. Jason has been watching and throwing things at the board..lol. But we have been having fun and relaxing.

Blessings
Crystal

Thoughts

2008-10-27T21:34:00.002-05:00

Some thoughts that are going round in my head after my awful...awful...and yes I will say it again....awful day...It really was.

*** My day is not as bad as some peoples. Some people dont have the blessings that I have, some women, dont have the wonderful husband that I do coming home to them at night. I am very blessed.

**** I could have made my day better, I just didnt put the energy into it. I should have...

**** Next time my DR. PEPPER gets spilled, I will take it as a sign from God that I dont need it and go exercise instead of getting upset over spilled "milk".

*** I am having an okay night, my kitten is still alive (had a scary night last night), my kids are being have now, my hubby is home and is so sweet, Jack helped me cook supper so that I wasnt so stressed about that. And I got another DR.PEPPER (see told ya my hubby is sweet)...

***** When I went to the grocery store to get wic, I seen a lady that works there who had a baby in Sept. Her baby is fine, she is back to work, and Jason was happy because he got to see his Peggy...lol.

*** I love the smell of the heaters...It is so comforting and as cold as it is going to get tonight, they are going to be going all night.

*** I am thankful that I have a roof over my head and walls that keep me mostly warm. It is a trailer so it is kinda drafty but hey, I am not homeless and that is a blessing. I feel like I should do something to help them.

**** I have a whole lot of stuff for a yard sale. But I dont like Yard Sales and I get grouchy when I have to have one. I dont mind going to them and shopping, I just dont like having them. So I think I will take all my stuff to a Women in Crisis Center nearby....or ask my Cop Neighbor if He knows anyone who can use it. He works with a lot of homeless and less fortunate people.

***I am glad that I have a cop for a neighbor who is so nice and helpful. If Paul has to go on the road working, It will be very nice to have him close (plus he just went on full disability reserve so he is home now most of the time....instead of out patroling...)

***** I am glad to have Jack here. He is a big help and if Paul goes out on the road, he will be here to help and between him and the cop, I dont feel so scared...(we have some not so good neighbors too...)

****The sound of silence in my house as everyone settles in for the night. The kitten even sleeps all night.

*** And last but not least, I have been struggling here lately with something that I could do to help make money and take some of the burden away from Paul. I have come up with ideas and dreams of going back to college and getting my nursing or pshycology degree (to be a Christian Counselor) but both things require time away from my family that I am not willing to spend just to make a dime...I have prayed about this, gotten angry because I cant do it, gotten mad at my kids because if they werent here, I could do it...or if I put them in school thenI could do it. I have struggled so much with this. Well, Sunday, Paul gave a lesson on Attitude and what our attitude is about what God has given us...Well, it was a lesson packed full of wisdom on several things but what hit me on the head was that I was given a job by God...to be a keeper at Home...to put my heart and soul into being a Godly wife and mother and to teach my kids and to be there for my husband. If HE wanted me to do any other job, HE would have put a way for me to do it. If HE wants me to ever do another job, HE will pave the way. There is no way if I had a job outside the home that I could give this home and my family 100%. My home would turn into just another house...... I make this house a home by having it ready for my family all the time, it is ready for my kids when they get up in the morning, it is ready for my husband when he comes home at night, it is something that we can be a family in...

So I am opening my heart to Gods will and learning to be happy with the lot that I was cast. It isnt what I had planned but it is what I have and what I am. And if I might say so, the hugs and kisses make it worth it.

Oh yeah...and when I was asking what the girls wanted to dress up as for Halloween( we dont do scary costumes...) Alaina wanted to be a princess cause she is fascinated with princesses here lately...and Kylie, well, Kylie being herself, shocked me again as usual..She wants to be a mommy because mommy's are the best..... (tears...tears...). She knows how to pull at this mommas heart...

goodnight to all...and many blessings your way.

Crystal

Update on the babies...

2008-10-23T21:56:00.003-05:00

Here is an update on Brittany's babies....if you dont know what I am talking about, please read the previous post.

The first baby is named Justin, and the second one is named Richard. Richard is the one that is in Little Rock.

When Justin was born, the placenta tore which cause Richard to be without oxygen for 2-3 minutes...until he was born. In turn, his brain temp got too warm (did you know that the blood in our brain is at least 2 degrees cooler than our body..? Interesting info...). Then because of storms, the medivac flight pilots did not want to fly so Richard did not get to Little Rock in the 6 hrs after his birth that they consider the most optimum time for treatment...instead he got there 12 hrs after. So that added a complication.

They have a thingy ( I dont know what it is called) on him cooling his brain temperature down and on Saturday, they will try to take it off. If his body regulates his brain temperature, then they will do brain scans to see how much damage if any is done. They are predicting some but dont know how much. If he cant regulate his temperature, then the thingy stays on for another few days.

Please keep praying as we all know the power of God. We all know that this baby can be healed. Please pray for little Richard. Please pray for Justin he is crying without his womb mate, and please pray for Brittany and her boyfriend Justin as they go through this together...I am praising him today because he hasnt left her side through any of this. He is going to be an amazing daddy... Please Please Pray!

Blessings
Crystal

ps....I guess I should explain that I feel so involved because this is Jacks little sister that I have know for going on 6 yrs now. I have got to watch her grow just as I have Jack...she was the little girl that when I went to pick him up for the weekend, had to come say hi and give me hugs and always had to say hi to the babies (Kylie and Alaina..) She is a sweet girl and is trying hard to be agood parent to her babies...even though they are only hours old....She was a good mom the whole time she was pregnant..But anyway, just please pray.

Prayers please!

2008-10-22T21:03:00.002-05:00

I have a special prayer request tonight. If I offend anyone by this post I am not apologizing, I know I made my share of mistakes growing up.

Jacks sister (by his mom) Brittany, gave birth to twin boys today. She is only 15. I am asking for prayers for her and her babies. The first one, is doing great. Weighed 5lbs 11oz and I could hear him crying on the phone when Jack called. The second one, was having alot of problems breathing and (Jacks description) when he was born, his brain temperature was too warm. Her placenta tore when the first one was born also so that added complications. I dont know what he weighed or anything. They have taken the second baby to Little Rock. Brittany is quiet upset as you can imagine that she cant be with her baby tonight.

I know she is only 15, she knows that she made a mistake but she is just as capable as anyone else of recieving Gods forgivness. Though I have to admire her because she is keeping them, still going to school, and is not backing down on going to college. She has had a pretty tough life and she is determined to make it better for her kids. Her boyfriend is in the picture, he was right there by her when she had them and they are planning on getting married. She has spent the better part of the last two months in the hospital going in and out of labor so it hasnt been easy.

Just please pray for her and the babies...and for Jack, he is staying by her side as any good brother would do. He may be going to Little Rock with her tommorow because none of her or her boyfriends parents are going.

Babies are Gods little Blessings....

Crystal

Frustrated....

2008-10-22T13:20:00.002-05:00

I am so frustrated with Blogger right now. I have been wanting to upload pictures for a while and it wont let me. Everytime I get to the point that it says it is loading it freezes...but anyway, I will try to get some pictures posted soon...

Blessings
Crystal

Psalms

2008-10-21T07:20:00.001-05:00

Have you ever just sat down and read Psalms....REALLY read it?

Just my thought for the day...

Blessings
crystal

Healing the Land.

2008-10-20T07:16:00.002-05:00

Yesterday in Church, a Brother brought up this scripture.

2 Chronicles 7:14 (King James Version)

14If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

We are always praying for our Nation and that God will put who he deems worthy in office...This verse just says alot.

Please pray for our nation!

Blessings
Crystal

Sunday at my house.

2008-10-19T07:41:00.003-05:00

Sunday at my House....

My quiet solitude is interupted by my husbands rustling pages as he prepares his lesson for today. (not that I mind :) )

I can smell the coffee making in the kitchen..ummm...

I can hear the new kitten meowing becasue he just wants to cuddle.

I can see the fog lifting off of the yard.

I can feel the crisp cool air of fall...

Uh-oh Kids are waking up...time to get into the Sunday routine of getting ready for Church.

Blessings
Crystal

Video

2008-10-17T08:46:00.002-05:00

I found this on Darcy's Blog. Very Moving.. Please listen.

You will have to pause my music to listen...sorry :(

Our week last week was so crazy. We actually did have half of the stuff that I had planned but not the other half. Just imagine, half the week with teenagers in and out and the other half...calm...lol. But it was great. Loved it.

So this week, we are still working on getting some of that food made. We have a trip planned for Wednesday and of course hunting whenever we can go. I refuse to go hunting if I dont have something planned for Supper that Paul can just put on plates for the kids. I dont like him having to cook for them. So on nights that I go hunting, I try to have one dish meals or soemthing simple. Remember also that I buy and plan for two weeks so I always start with Sunday and end with a Saturday.

I am still using recipes off of Razzle Dazzle. My sis recommended it and I love it.

Sunday--we ate out because we worked at Church and bought groceries

Monday-- Cassarole (recipe below.)

Tuesday--Pork Chops in Gravy over rice

Wednesday--Trip...eat on the road.

Thursday--Crockpot Tamale Cassarole.

Friday--Frito Chili Pie (Chili cooked in Crockpot)

Saturday--Chicken Noodle Soup (Chicken cooked in Crockpot)

Sunday-- Spaghetti (Sauce cooked in Crockpot)

Monday--Crockpot Chicken and Velveeta Cassarole

Tuesday--Soup (In Crockpot) (made with leftover grilled backstrap and whatever else I find :) )

Wednesday--Eight Layer Cassarole

Thursday--Omelettes

Friday--Homemade Pizza or Crockpot Pizza (recipe link to come later.)

Saturday--Crockpot Swiss steak

Recipe-- The cassarole I am making tonight is just a simple one. I take 1lb of ground beef, 2 boxes of Mac and Cheese and 1 can of rotel. Cook the beef (add any spices you want). Cook the Mac and cheese according to package directions Mix in 1 can rotel with about half of the juice. Mix with beef, put in cassarole dish and sprinkle with bacon bits. (My husband likes the bacon bits...) I bake this for about 10 minutes on 350. Sometimes I will add just tomatoes and onions instead of rotel. There is different variations that I have seen. But it is a hit whenever I make it and it feeds all of us so. :)

I am hoping that there arent too many changes to my menu this week. It gets hectic around here sometimes. Can you tell I love my Crockpot? :)

Blessings
crystal

Happy Birthday Jack!

2008-10-07T06:40:00.003-05:00

I know I said this would get put on here yesterday but you know we got really busy with doing stuff with Birthday Boy.

Jack, my eldest. Even though I did not carry you for nine months and take care of you for the firt years of yoru life, you are my son. But you know that. You know that I love you like you are my own.

To watch you grow from that little kid who stood by and told his daddy that whereever I went you were going. To watch the little boy who was so fascinated with making weapons out of sticks, and racing through the yard with your homemade toys...all the store bought ones in pieces because you had to find out how they worked...and then didnt put them back together.

Watching you skateboard and ride your bike....but not just anybike, a trick bike..one that you could go airborne and jump and flip and all kinds of things that made my mommas heart stop.

I was there when you were baptized. I have got to watch you grow as a Christian. My heart cried and ached when you fell away.....but oh it rejoiced and sang when you came back. And just as usual, you didnt come back slowly, you took it by force and are now someone to be reckoned with. You defend your faith and you are so proud to be a Christian. You gave your first lesson at Church Sunday and if you seen tears in my eyes, it was because I couldnt have been prouder. You were awesome. I think someday you are going to be an excellent preacher....you have the ability to move people.

I have watched you grow from a boy who just wanted a girlfriend to say he had one, to caring so much for one girl that you want to spend the rest of your life with her. Even though I am not quite ready to turn you lose, you couldnt have let God give you a better girl. I will cry when I have to let you go, but I will be so glad because you have her and God.

So much like your daddy you are. You are so very passionate about your family and your jobs as part of the family. You take so much on your shoulders even when you dont have to. You are turning into such a wonderful man.

So now to quit being sappy because I know you dont like all the sappy stuff, Jus tknow that Your Dad and I Love You and I wish you all the best in your life. You have alot of dreams and I hope you get to live them. Thank You for being my Son.

Love You
Mom (Crystal)

I said our menu was likely to change. It did. But that is okay, I was able to rearrange and not buy anything extra. Most of my Crockpot recipes are coming from Razzle Dazzle Recipes .

So Here is our new Menu for this week.

Sunday--WE had leftovers and if you wanted it cook it night...lol

Monday--Backstrap got moved to this night cause Jack wanted it for his Birthday...so he is supposed to grilll...but it is raining so..

Tuesday--Shephards Pie

Wednesday--Crockpot Tamale Cassarole(Bible Study)

Thursday--Beans and Cornbread and Fried Potatoes

Friday--Chili (probably frito chili pie...)

Saturday--Pork chops in Gravy/Mashed Potatoes.

The Eight Layer Cassarole was a Hit! and so was the Swiss Steak in the Crockpot. I used my Crockpot 5 out of the 7 days last week either for the main dish or for a side dish. I love it. I went to look at new crock pots and couldnt find one that I just really wanted. So I will wait.

There will be a Birthday Post on here for Jack later. He is 18 today! His day started out bad though....he spent the night with his granny last night and his stereo got stolen out of his truck. So please pray his day gets better.

Blessings
Crystal

Morning thoughts! & Husaband Encouragement!!!

2008-10-01T07:29:00.004-05:00

"Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing" (James 1:3-4). KJV

This was the scripture in my daily devotion from Alpha Omega this morning. Head on over to Wonderful Words of Life to read more!

On Heartlight's Todays Verse, Phil Ware talks about Isaiah 10:1-2 Very interesting thoughts. Have I become too worried with "stuff"?

Ann over at A Holy Experience has a great post on family knots

And my Sis had this post a couple of days ago.

Just some interesting places I visited this morning.

HUSBAND ENCOURAGEMENT!

My dear hubby this morning let me sleep in. He turned my alarm off and got up, made coffee and kept quiet while I gained some much needed sleep. What a wonderful man! There has been a struggle within our family (Not Paul and I) but it has affected our lives the last few days. Paul has been my stronghold, constantly reminding me that I have to let God take care of it. We can pray and help if asked but we have to put it in Gods hands. He has let me cry and rage and overall be a complete grouch without saying so much as a word to stop me. I am so grateful for my husband..He is my rock...(After God of course..which he keeps reminding me of..lol) Sweety, I love You and Thank You so much for being there and for helping me..I know you are hurting just as bad as I am...but you are putting me first after God and altghough that is how it is supposed to be, I feel so unworthy.

That has been my morning thoughts, and now, I am off to enjoy a day with my kids. After we finish our initial school and cleaning assignments for today, I am going to make curtains and aprons and we are going to immerse ourselves in Little Cabin In the Big Wood..for like the third time through. HAVE A BLESSED DAY!

Blessings
Crystal

Our menu this week is all mixed up. I am trying a few new recipes, we are finishing up using summer stuff out of the freezer and of course we have to throw in breakfast a couple of nights.

Monday-Steaks on the Grill, Baked Potatoes

Tuesday- Spaghetti and Meatballs, green beans, garlic cheese bread

Wednesday- Crockpot Swiss Steak, Mashed Potatoes, sweet peas.

Thursday- Backstrap (either fried or on the grill) Fried Potatoes, Corn

Friday--Chicken Noodle Soup (If I go hunting, they will have oatmeal :) )

Saturday-Bar-B-Que on a bun, potatoe salad

Sunday-Crockpot Tamale Cassarole , Chips and Salsa ( I will be omitting the pork from this recipe..)

Monday- Meat Loaf Mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans

Tuesday-Pinto Beans, Cornbread, Fried Potatos

Wednesday - (Bible Study) Eight Layer Cassarole

Thursday- Grilled Cheese and French Fries

Friday--Breakfast, Sausage, Eggs, Biscuits, Gravy

Saturday--Pork Chops in Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Blackeyed peas, green beans.

I usually go buy groceries every two weeks on Saturday so Sunday starts all over again. Of course our menu is likely to change if my dear hubby decides he wants something, I try to fix it for him.

My kids newest favorite song!

2008-09-25T22:05:00.005-05:00

Edited to add! You will have to pause my music on my sidebar to hear this video. I have moved my music up to just below my About Me spot just for this purpose...so you dont have to scroll all the way down... Thank You!

This is currently my kids favorite song! I happen to love it also. It is so upbeat and cheerful. My husband actually likes it too. I really love this groups music. Its kind of funny to drive down the road with our windows down and playing this song. And when it is over and another starts to come on, what do I hear but "We want By and By momma....by and by....no..by and by. Thank You Momma..." Followed by their best version of this song.

By & by - SELAH
by SEPTRE

Blessings
Crystal

Bluberry Bread

2008-09-20T20:07:00.002-05:00

I finally got around to making this bread. It is delicious! Wonderful! The girls suggested that I not put so many blueberries in it next time. I had to agree, although it was delicious and I will make it again, I wont put so many blueberries in it. But it is a hit.

I am getting stuff ready for Church tommorow. We are going to mow after Church and we usually have lunch. I like to get stuff ready on Saturday night so I dont have to rush around on Sunday morning to get it done. I just wanted to share this recipe while I was thinking about it.

Blessings
Crystal

Husband Praise!

2008-09-18T10:10:00.002-05:00

I know I havent been doing my daily Husband Encouragement on here...but I have been doing it.

But for now, lets just say that he is so good. He went out early this morning to do an extra job for bill money and when he came home, he decided that he was going to take Jack to get a new phone...(his broke last week...plus other issues with it...) So instead of just him and Jack going, he took all the little ones too. We were doing chores and fixing to do school but hey, they get to go with Daddy, we can always do school this evening. When He gets back, he is going to do another side job and maybe this evening we will watch a movie if he is not too tired.

And I get an hour of quiet rest. I am off to get a much awaited long shower and to read some of a new book.

I love my darling wonderful husband. He takes great care of us and knows just when I need a break. Love Ya Baby!

Blessings
Crystal

Picutres and Menu

2008-09-16T07:52:00.003-05:00

Okay, I had a slide show up here and it keeps messing up so I will try to get the pictures posted later today. Right now, I am off to get lunch prep going and get school started and then we have an appointment that we have to be at at 11:00 and then some errands to run. I have Chili in the CrockPot for supper and will pick up some Fritos for Frito Chili Pie.

Our Menu has been consisting of whatever we can fix cheap. Mostly, just eating what is in the freezer and pantry.

Monday--(we had a Mexican Dish that Aunt Ducky sent over and Refried Beans...I cooked 2 lbs of beans in the crockpot and divided them. Refried Beans, Chili and 1Gallon still in the freezer for later. )

Tuesday-- Frito Chili Pie

Wednesday-- Bar-B-Que Roast, Potatoe Salad, Green Beans

Thursday--Chicken Fried Steak, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Blackeyed Peas

Friday--(I am having a Wisdom Tooth Pulled maybe....) Grilled Cheese, Potatoe Cakes

Saturday-- Beef Pot Pie or Shephards Pie (with leftover roast)

Sunday--Leftovers

Monday--Breakfast either biscuits and gravy or pancakes

Tuesday--Ckicken Noodle Soup

Wednesday--Hamburger Steak Supreme

Thursday--Chicken pot pie

Friday-- Steak on the Grill (if not raining) Potatoes, Corn on the Cob (last summer meal)

Saturday--(quick night) Fish Sticks and French Fries

Sunday Breakfast---Oatmeal or Malt O Meal ( I know weird arent we....lol)

I will try to share some recipes later. But for right now, I have to go get some stuff ready. My alarm hasnt been going off in the mornings so I am running an hour behind.

Many Blessings
Crystal

Fall Weather

2008-09-15T09:43:00.004-05:00

The above pictures were taken last fall. Hard to believe he has gotten so big.

Okay, 70 for a high today and 48 for a low tonight....Sound like FALL to anyone else? We are so excited around here. Even though I have pulled a muscle in my back, we have been doing really good with getting stuff done. I have my fall decorations out now and we have gone through the girls clothes and found out that Kylie needs some new clothes for fall/winter, she has grown so fast. (she also has a tooth that is lose....my baby is getting so big...I just wanted to cry when she told me...) I still need to go through Jasons clothes and mine but we are doing one thing at a time.

Browned Butter Bread Pudding Sounds delicious..I am going to have to try it.

Some websites that Have some great ideas for fall. I am anxious to try some of them.

Better Homes and Gardens

Southern Living

Martha Stewart

and of course always visit Kelli over at There's No Place Like Home for lots of pretty and yummy fall treats. I just love visiting her site, she always has something creative and pretty or yummy to show.

Many Blessings
Crystall

Fall

2008-09-11T14:41:00.002-05:00

Can you tell what I am ready for? I am so ready for Fall! I was going to do the camo background but decided to try this one instead for a while.

I will hopefully be back to posting before too long. But for now, everyone enjoy getting ready for Fall, I know we are. We get to get our decorations out today and put them out. The girls are so excited.

Blessings
Crystal

Baby Drew!

2008-09-04T07:34:00.002-05:00

This is for everyone that reads Julies blog too. She called me this morning and her water is leaking so she is going to the hospital to see what is going on. We are heading there also so that we can be there if she has Baby Drew today. I will update as soon as I get home or to a computer that I can update on. I will also try to update on her blog so be sure to check both.

Keep her in your prayers..

Crystal