Because Joseph Was a Righteous Man...

Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. Matthew 1:19 (NIV)

A new twist for marriages, Christian marriages that is, lies most delicately within the cleft of this truth. Imagine your marriage was plagued with the trappings of today: adultery, selfishness, denial, envy, strife…you get the idea. Now, in light of these problematic circumstances you realize you just cannot hold up under the pressure and decide to divorce.

Sad but true is this reality within our churches today. Our stats according to nearly every statistician reveal that the church is hanging in there not in perseverance instead with the world. Our rate of adultery, divorce, alcoholism, drug addiction, and downright pride and selfish ambition are unbelievable. Now, please know that I am not pointing fingers I have done my share of sinning and putting on my plastic face but I am truly astonished on how people who once loved one another are now lining the pews with all that is bad within them. Even in divorce the members of a church can be seen as vindictive and offensive as the lost. We seek justice in any form we can get and bring down the gavel at every moment possble. When looking into situation this way I see justification for our hurt not justice for the wrong doing.

I am not writing this to condemn anyone or reveal anything you do not already know but to shine the light on how this verse spoke to me….Because Joseph was a righteous man…he had in mind to divorce her quietly. This absolutely blew my mind! He knew the ramifications of her presumed “actions” and that it would end in her death by stoning. Most of us know by now that they, Mary and Joseph, were betrothed (engaged) and it would require a divorce to sever the relationship. We know that even at this point it was allowable to divorce in the event of adultery or sexual immorality; furthermore, if what Joseph initially assumed was true then he could divorce her legally. The problem with that is that there are few divorces that are quietly executed. I have not seen one in my lifetime; someone usually goes down in flames but both lose, all involved lose - when it is not done quietly.

But because Joseph was a righteous man he set out to divorce her quietly. Because Joseph was righteous he acted with intent. Now I don’t know about you but most divorces are not executed with the righteousness of the “other” person in mind. Most actions in a divorce are driven in response to what another person did or did not do; therefore, I can conclude that it is reasonable to respond to the actions of the other party. But is this really what Jesus intends for us to do?

I found the answer to that question nestled in Matthew 1:19. This is the truth behind an acronym for a delicious dessert the Lord gave me in the summer of 2003, FUDGE. Forgiveness Under Divine Guidance Everyday. Wow!! The delicate truth that was found in the cleft of this rock is very telling of what our “nature” as a believer, a righteous child of God should be. Living holy because HE is holy is best exposed when one is at their most vulnerable moment. We all have selfish moments, thoughts, and actions but when the rubber truly hits the proverbial road your character is unveiled. (sweet or bitter and sometimes with nuts!)

Jesus tells us to love our enemies because being kind to those who are kind to us is even done by unbelievers. What about being the most loving to those who hurt us or let us down? We place people on pedestals and are shocked when they fall or fail. Then our shock is what truthfully drives our response not the action of the person. I do not say that to relieve responsibility on the part of an offender but it is up to us how we respond to others. Joseph was in shock no doubt. He could have lashed out very easily. He could have run to her father and revealed her indiscretion but instead he measured HIS OWN righteousness and responded from that foundation.

If we have ever wondered what we could learn from Joseph or why he was specifically chosen to rear Jesus, then we now know. His faith was lived. His heart was exposed at one of the most vulnerable moments in history, yet he was discreet and humble even in his disappointment. Many men have been weighed, measured, and left wanting but Joseph shows us how picturesque the high road truly is.

I have a new respect for Joseph and a little more realizaton into the Sovereignty of our Holy Father.

Revised from Christmas 2009 and enjoy your FUDGE!
Chel

From the Manger to a Mansion

Simeon was a man that patiently awaited the birth of his Salvation.

The Lord promised he would not see eternal sleep until hs savior he would meet.

Salvation came to earth as a babe and in a manger He would lay.

None could be bothered there was no room to spare, a man placed them in his stable and gave not another care.

As word traveled to lands very far shepherds and kings would faithfully follw a star.

This star would lead them to a new born kin, one who would rise and rule everything.

How it must have been to their surprie to find this king was a carpenter's son.

How would this lowly Jew ever rule anyone?

Their faith had lead them here thus far, and it was great lengths they had traveled following that star.

The journey was long but their praise must be paid to a king who once in a manger laid.

I tell you today, be sure that you know, the trade of Jesus was no oversight. He came, He lived, He worked, He prayed to be certain He pointed toward Heavenly light. He went to prepare a place for us in Heaven above now let us rejoice as Simeon has in the one whose name fits like a glove.

Rachele Posey - November 2005 (revised 12/21/2009)

1 Corinthians 13 Christmas Style by Sharon Jaynes

I have this wonderful book called Celebrating a Christ-Centered Christmas by Sharon Jaynes and I wanted to share her Christmas twist on 1 Corinthians 13 with you!

Merry Christmas!!

1 Corinthians 13 Christmas Style

©By Sharon Jaynes



If I decorate my house perfectly with lovely plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family - I'm just another decorator.

(my ornament)

If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals, and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family - I'm just another cook.

(my pie)

If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family - It profits me nothing.

(my inner chef)

If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties, and sing in the choir's cantata but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.

(my tree)

Love stops the cooking to hug the child.

(my son)

Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.

(my husband)

Love is kind, though harried and tired.

(favorite fun Christmas movie)

Love doesn't envy another home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.

(my table)

Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of the way.

Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can't.

(my daughter @ food bank)

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.

(skeptical horse in Waco)

Love never fails. Video games will break; pearl necklaces will be lost; golf clubs will rust. But giving the gift of love will endure.

(one of the kids ornament gifts from last year)

Merry Christmas!!

Chel

Merry CHRISTmas Random Dozen!!

Special thanks to Lid at 2nd Cup of Coffee for hosting this fabulous meme and Merry CHRISTmas to all! You can join in on the festival of fun by clicking the button above and link up for a jolly good time!!

1. Which physical trait do you now accept--maybe not love, but accept--and no longer feel extremely self-conscious about?


My toes. My second toe on both feet are longer than my "big toe" and I would never wear flip flops or open toed shoes because people would always comment on my toes. Now I hope people notice my pretty little skinny feet with which the rest of my body needs to conform!

2. This week Meredith Baxter Birney, best known as the mom on the favorite 80s sitcom "Family Ties" came out of the closet, which led me to formulate this question: Who do you think is/was the best TV mom?

Claire Huxtable. Loved her!

3. Do you speak any foreign languages? Are there any you'd like to learn?

I know a little sign language and enough spanish to really confuse those who do know it well. I would love to learn it well along with Portuguese, German, Russian, Hebrew, and especially Vietnamese so that I have full comprehension when getting toes and nails done!

4. Who is your personal hero?

Jesus Christ my Savior!

5. What is one holiday food that you find extremely difficult to resist over- indulging in?

Stuffing!!!!!!

6. Tell me about a Christmas decoration that has special meaning or sentimental value.

This little yet simple stocking represents one of the last Christmas' that I spent with my dad and my mom together.

7. How do you feel about snow?

I love it when I want it. This picture is of our most recent snow which usually does not happen until after Christmas. Since it was not as cold a it is today (20's) it became slushy and did not stick around.

8. On average, how many hours of sleep do you get each night? Not that I'm jealous of any number over three or anything.

4-6 depending on my "To-Do" list that had yet to be completed. And this time of year I get less because both kids have their birthdays (17th & 22nd) so I make multiple lists and check them all twice.

9. Tell me about your first crush.

Well, when I used to go to Gulf Skate in Corpus Christi,TX, I met this boy who I thought was sooo cute! I went to a different school in 6th grade but when I moved back to Flour Bluff I saw him there!!! I can't begin to explain my excitement!!! There he was one of the cutest boys I had ever seen!!  Oh boy did I have a huge crush on him!! Only for a short time was he actually my boyfriend yet I continued to believe he was the cutest, nicest boy around, then he moved! If you were to ask any friend of mine they would probably still be able to tell you his name. I had it bad!!

10. You're stuck in a room for 2 hours with only a chalkboard and chalk. What will you write/draw?

I would likely write my name until I thought it looked pretty, then draw a few hearts, a horse's head, a lady's face. BUT I would erase it all before anyone saw it!

11. Do you dress for the current temp or for the day's forecast?

The current temp and whether I feel cold or hot at the moment I am looking. I am often very hot while getting ready! lol

12. Favorite Christmas movie is?

This is a loaded question...be careful or "you'll shoot your eye out!" I did love A Christmas Story until I sat down to watch it with my kids!!! But in 2005 my sister-in-love, Joyce, brought Elf to the house and I was sold after recovering from the breath-gasping laughter!!!

So don't be a "cotton-headed ninny-muggins" and take a trip through "the seven levels of the Candy Cane forest, through the sea of swirly twirly gum drops, and then walk through the Lincoln Tunnel," otherwise I'll call you a "South Pole Elf."  Get the movie but take heed DO NOT WATCH ON A FULL STOMACH! I DID THE FIRST TIME I SAW IT...IT WAS ALMOST BAAAAAD! (I know you are singing the MJ song now! lol, if you weren't then you are now!!!)

Lid, This is for you!!!! Thank you for the World's Best 2nd Cup of Coffee...with a Lid!!!



Come on back tomorrow where you can link up and share your randomness with the world. Or about 50 other people, usually.
 
Merry CHRISTmas to all!!
Chel

Random Dozen!!! Linking Up Some Love...lol

Our friend, mentor, and just down right lovely lady, Lid, has posed some very fun yet deep questions. (psst. I can't wait to read some of these!) Join us for some fun with Random Questions served up in a Dozen!

1. Which Wizard of Oz character are you most like?


Hmmm, if I only had a brain I could answer this question.

2. When you're deciding what you're going to wear each morning, which item do you select first? Why?

My bottom half is first because that is where I have more trouble selecting what actually fits.

3. What kind of animal do you think the world could live without?

MOskeeetoz!


4. How many Christmas trees are in your home?

Only one. I want two but that will happen some day.


5. Would you prefer to be emotionless if it mean you didn't have to feel a heartbreak?

Nope, nuh uh, nev-ah!


6. Do you ever experience holiday let-down or depression?

Oh sure.

7. Do you like Michael Jackson's music?

Some.

8. Why is it that we never judge people who have their teeth fixed for cosmetic reasons, but every other cosmetic procedure has a stigma?

Hmmm. If I were to take a shot at this I would venture to say that adjusting some parts can bring about lust, if you make a spectacle of it. Aren't we not to be stumbling blocks? Invoking lust would definitely be tossing some blocks out if you know what I mean.

With that said, there are just somethings that HAVE to be fixed lol, it all boils down to presentation.

I am fine with whatever surgery if it is for you and our spouse but when you make a point to show others, well...you know. It is like a lovely lady named Janet White said at her Feminar (http://www.macbc.org/SpecialEvents/Feminar/tabid/74/Default.aspx),

"Ladies, Wives, "those" are for YOUR husbands or your future husband's pleasure, not your neighbor's husband." love it. (quoting from Songs of course)
9. Enjoy horseback riding?

Yes. One time, when I was 15, I rode for the first time in years and had to stay home from school the next day because I could not walk. My inner thighs were screaming, "Don't - you - ever - do - THAT - again!" lol

10. Shoes--practical or stylish?

It just has to be both. I buy lots of stylish but my feet do not agree every day. My Brighton, Sarah's, fixed that problem! Cute and Comfy - Black and Brown! They cover basics and vanity, lol!!!

11. What was the name of your first pet? Feel free to post a pic.

I do not have pictures handy but my first pet that I remember was a kitty cat named Scribbles. My mom brought her home from the plant nursery, Turner's Gardenland, and she gave birth to Simon.

12. What percentage of your Christmas shopping is done?

About 70%!!! Yea! I am accustomed to being done or closer to it by now. Arg, the limits of limited cash flow!

Just Put on Your SONday Best!

Boy oh boy, if there has ever been proof, I've seen it now.

You know we, meaning Christians have heard talk after talk and sermon after sermon telling us that "they" are watching. Well we know they are, they all are. Our walk is measured and our talk is weighed.

During this season, His season, let us live in a manner worthy of the calling and the Gospel of Christ. And as my precious Uncle John says, "That None Should Perish!"

We really look no different than the world, truly. Obviously we are all human but as Christians this world is not our home. Our stats, our sins are equivalent yet worse because they are stumbling blocks to Christ in the lives of others. Oh how precious it is to know my destiny but more so to know my Savior. I long to spend time with Him even if I have let Him down. I know that His rebuke is for my well being and to help me live in the manner I request. A life that pleases Him.

It blessed my  soul to read where Sandra Bullock says that she now knows there are Christians who have an authentic faith. WOW. So many have not shown the authenticity of Christ to her. I am speechless! Perhaps that what many should be including me (often), speechless. lol

Evangelism does not have to be as hard as we make it out to be. Just live and love like Christ and the rest will manifest outwardly to others.

It is so important that the "world" gets out of the Church, out of the Body. My previous Sunday School teacher likened it to the scuba diver. He is "in" the ocean but not "of" the ocean. Then I reflected on scriptures which call us to this without a doubt. In order to make it more fun allow me to apply some good old fashioned grammatical rules to our Scriptures.

If I believe in Christ then I am a new creation. Right? 2 Cor. 5:17)

If I am a new creation, my old self is gone. Right? (Ro. 6:6)

If my old self is gone then I am now created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. (Eph. 4:24)

If I live a righteous life in the holiness of God in Christ then I will clean the inside of the cup before the outside. (Matt. 23:25)

With those "if then" statements said I can only agree that others like Sandra Bullock are listening and watching therefore my actions must represent my beliefs. Now, "if" I am like that "then" the Holy Spirit can work with me.

Read this article and rejoice with me that finally Christ was represented well and it has been noticed. There are two types of judgmental people....Those who wait and watch for the Christian to fail and those who claim to be righteous while faulting the blind for not seeing. (Thank you Dr. Johnny Hunt for that quote.) How many of us not only misrepresent our beliefs with our actions but also fault the blind for not being able to see? The Holy Spirit is the only giver of "that" type of sight, not me, not us. Be an example worth following so that you can boast in Christ and not in your deeds.

Just put on your SONday best!

http://www.onenewsnow.com/Culture/Default.aspx?id=792418&sms_ss=facebook

LOS ANGELES - Actress Sandra Bullock says meeting Leigh Anne Tuohy, who she portrays in The Blind Side, showed her there really are some Christians who "walk the walk."



The film, which opened the week before Thanksgiving, presents the true story of the Tuohys -- a well-off white family in Tennessee -- who welcome a homeless black youth into their home and then adopt him as their son. That young man, Michael Oher, became an All-American selection for Ole Miss and a first-round draft pick. He now plays for the NFL's Baltimore Ravens.

Bullock says thanks to the Tuohys, who attend Grace Evangelical Church in Memphis, she now has "faith in those who say they represent a faith." Getting to know Leigh Anne Tuohy, says the actress, showed her that religious faith can be authentic. "She was so open and honest and forthright," Bullock shares, "and I said, wow, I finally met someone who practices but doesn't preach."

Tuohy isn't like some hypocritical church-goers she's known, adds Bullock. "The beauty of Leigh Anne was one of my biggest questions was how people use their faith and their religion as a banner," she says. "And then they don't do the right thing, but they go 'I'm a good Christian and I go to church and this is the way you should live your life.'"

Bullock admits she was wary of Christians before she met the Tuohys. "Whereas...before I was like, do not give me a lecture on how to live my life when I know I'm a pretty decent human being," says the actress. "I might not go to church everyday, but I know I do the right thing or try to. You're going to church and you're still sleeping around on your wife...how are you better than I am? So I finally met people who walk the walk."

Leigh Anne Tuohy says she hopes The Blind Side inspires more people to help others. "You don't have to go out and bring a child into your home -- that's not what's required," says Tuohy. "But you can do something -- everybody is capable of doing something. So whatever your something is, do it well. Make a difference."

Oher's mom says she enforces a behavior code when she watches her adopted son play for the Baltimore Ravens. "I had to have a little 'come to Jesus' talk with my section at [the] Ravens' stadium," she says. "I had to explain to everyone that, okay, we're going to have a change of attitude. There is a two-drink limit, there is no cussing in this [section]. You don't know who you're sitting next to -- I'm a player's mom."

The Blind Side has earned more than $100 million dollars at the box office so far.
Read 'The Blind Side' should trouble as well as inspire
(Commentary by Star Parker)

WOW! See they could have tried to impress Sandra with how wonderful and good they are but instead the Holy Spirit was allowed to make HIS impression. Oh, I know we will not live perfect lives but please Lord enable us to live surrendered lives in our SONday best! (everyday)

Chel

Happy Thanks-LIVING....Eternally!!! (John 3:16)

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

Always remember from where you have lifted and continue to look up!

I thank you and praise you dear Lord Jesus for cleansing a sinner like me and making me whole. With my whole life I want to thank you for teaching me Your ways and showing me Your path. I pray that you never allow me to stray and keep me from being useless to and in Your Kingdom. I love you Jesus and I want my whole life to show it. Amen


As a Baptist not only was John 3:16 my first verse to memorize but it is the most engraved upon my soul.
My Savior moved not just mountains for me but myself from me and entered into my life. I remember how I was, all of the gorey details but I am so thankful that is the past. I am certain failure lingers ever so closely but with Christ I am kept in perfect peace regardless of trials and circumstances. I am able to face the days ahead of me as I live with Thanks-Living.

When deep within my rebellion the Lord tapped me and reminded me of His plans for me:

Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." I was ready for the future and I decided I was ready for HIS future in my life.

I was deeply ignorant, but I thank my LORD, He sent a Savior! (1 Timothy 1:12-17) I can honestly say I am chief sinner here as well although that is not a headdress I would be proud to display. If sinning were a competition I would have most you beat; again not a proud feat at all for me.


God just flat astonishes me; this Savior swept me right off my feet and I am still reeling and relishing this dance. His agape love that reaches beyond all understanding and without limits was expressed to someone like me, sinful, broken, putrid, and hideous. Yet He loved me and all of us so much that He committed His one and only son to be our sacrifice, bestowing Jesus to us.


You know the 10 Commandments??? Been there broke that. (sigh) BUT on a more positive note, I believe God wants me to see the potential HE realizes for me and I think I found that Truth revealed in John 3:16. So I wanted to to take this time to share with you that all familiar passage. But please I beg of you read it as if you have never read it before and allow the truth of the root words to bury themselves deep within your soul. You will be ready to shout hallelujah, I promise you!




I knew that looking deep into this verse would rise up a huge amount of gratitude in my heart. And since it is very familiar to me I obviously needed a fresh perspective. So, join me as I thank the Lord for giving me His only Son, securing my eternity, and making me useful.


The following summary was created by using the words found in John 3:16 via Strong's, and interpreted from the Greek root words:

"Indeed, God loved His creation beyond compare, in such a way, He supplied His one and only son in order that each and everyone would put full confidence into Him. Then they will not be destroyed or rendered useless instead giving the exception to the possession of a full active vigorous life wholly devoted to God without end."

I don't know about you but that just blew me away! Our need, His supply so we will not be useless!!!!



How can we have the full active life without end if we do not first put our trust in HIM?



All because He first loved us! I am speechless and breathless.


Now as you celebrate Thanksgiving think of it as Thanks-LIVING! Praise HIM with this song and have a very blessed week! Now, get your empty coffee cup....

Randommmmm Dozen! Ain't 8 Great?

This is one of the most fun meme's around!!! It is the Random Dozen by Lid! Linda at 2nd Cup of Coffee hosts this fabulous blog meme! Grab the button go to hers and link up!! Dive in, go ahead, you'll be glad you did!!

1. Candy corn: Your thoughts?

Sweet, orange, yummy, makes my daughter go crazy every year! She just loves them with a huge intensity!

2. Briefly, what was the first conversation you ever had with your spouse? (or best friend, if you're not married.) (Or someone significant, like your librarian.)

Hmmmm, 17 years ago....that's...Oops Not saying that. This is a very interesting questinon! tee hee!!!! Ok, I just got a little distracted watching the Bio on Bio for Sam Walton! Very good!! Back on track...must have adhd meds soon! Oh, yes conversation with my spouse, the first one.....Well the only one I can think of was our first dinner at El Chico. He asked if I was afraid to eat to which I said no and ate my meal. Then he asked me if I liked the Dallas Cowboys, I said yes, and he said that we could now continue to date. I bet he is wishing I did not like to eat now!! hahahahahaaha!

3. Could you ever become a vegetarian?

Yes, my Grannie always thought I was. I guess I was weird. No meat, no bread, no seasoning or butter on anything....now I wonder why I would have made that previous comment. lol

4. Have you ever dressed up your pet in a costume?

Not really, I only just put a hat on my little guy in the store, but I did not buy it! Look at him!!! Bogey is the Best!!! Cassablanca's Bogart is my sweetie heart doll baby. He's a Mama's boy.

5. Name something about childhood that you miss (like Clark Bars, Teaberry Gum, Malibu Barbie, cracking fake eggs on people's heads with your fist and "It's the Great Pumpkin" airing only once a year).

My mom
My Rhinestone Cowboy album and my Rudolph Christmas album
Tinkerbell Perfume and Make-up!
Strawberry Shortcake!
Skipper doll & my Farah doll sure wish I had that still!!!
Munchichi!!!
And my entire Raggedy Ann collection...ok well that is just a little too much thought into "stuff" but it is always attached to memories. So I wonder why I get called sentimental!?!

6. Have you ever won a trophy? If not, what do you deserve a trophy for?

yes

7. When do you think is the appropriate time to begin playing Christmas music each year?

All year!!! It just livens up my spirits especially when rightly focused on Christ!! I love strolling down memory lane often so all year is good with me. I just listened to my Josh Groban Christmas the other day while cleaning and cooking in the kitchen. His Oh Holy Night is the absolute best you must download it!

8. What's your favorite board game?

Yahtzee, and if that doesn't really count then Clue with my son, cards with my family, and Life with my BFF sista Chel at Legacy. We played that till the wheel nearly spun off, and Hungry hippos when feeling silly! That is great!

9. How do you feel about surprises (receiving, not giving)?

Love them!!!!

10. Is it easy for you to say, "I'm sorry?"

Depends on the person, usually it is easy. Some people make it hard to give an apology to and other times the pride is a factor.

11. What is your favorite candle scent?

That's easy well sort of! Dreamers....Hawaiian Pardise (Plumeria) and Ritzy Raspberry Ripple; Morenci Candles....Banana Nut Bread & Yankee (most of them) & Bath and Body Works is the Brown Sugar and Plum!!!

12. October is traditionally "open house" time in public schools. If you had a literal open house in your home (like a reception) what light snacks would you serve visitors and what would you show them (as in art projects, graded papers) that would uniquely represent you?

Pumpkin Dip With Anna's Ginger Thins (See this post......Fall Into Flavor - jumped the gun post) {click on the words in ( )}
Little Quiche
Cream Cheese with Sweet and Spicy Jelly over it and Wheat Thins
Homemade Salsa and Queso
Homemade German choc. cake
Drip Beef with sourdough rolls

Something(s) that represent me...my kids, my heart trinket boxes, my first drawing of a face ever, I've been told it looks a bit like my mom, you tell me. It was not intended nor was I looking at it. Funny huh? (see pics below, the drawing is chalk) my quilt made by Linda from church (oh my I just totally spelled it Lidna first!) My orange counter tops in my kitchen and my lilac/purple bathroom (tub, sink, and toilet are that color)

Thanks Linda!! These are fun!
Chel

Recipe: Could be Bad Blog Etiquette.....

I just really have to do this. I hope that Linda at 2nd-Cup-of-Coffee doesn't mind the resurrection of this meme but it-is-just-necessary. :-)  Lid, is it cool with you?

Please feel free to visit three recipes posted last year (here). The Pumpkin Pie Cake Recipe is here.

After my last post many of you have asked for the Pumpkin Dip Recipe.  You will absolutely pozAtively love this stuff! Be warned it is addictive!

The dip is beautifully served in a hallowed out pie pumpkin! And perty too!

Put it in a pumpkin shell and there you'll serve it very well!

Ingredients

Small can of pumpkin

Pumpkin Pie Spice (about 1 tsp)

Block of Cream Cheese (softened)

1 Cup of Powdered Sugar

1 tsp of Vanilla but to be honest I put 1 Tablespoon!!

and my new ingredient Cool Whip! Oh yes you read that right! Cool Whip!

Put canned pumpkin in a bowl. Two big dashes of the Pumpkin Pie Spice (or about 1 tsp) to taste. Blend in vanilla, cream cheese, and powdered sugar. You may use a mixer for these ingredients but when you add the Cool Whip gently fold it in to maintain consistency.

And do not forget to use the Anna's Ginger Thins! Now, if you like you could use Ginger Snaps, especially if you can't find Anna's. My Wow-Mart has them and so does Albertson's. 

Happy Dipping!!!

Chel

Random Dozen #7!!!

1. I've always wondered why we were taught both printing and cursive. Do you prefer to print or write cursive? (Keyboard is not a choice.)

Personally, I have my favorite letters that must be written and I slide right into printing without choice. My brain to hand signals are warped just a bit!




2. Are you a dreamer or a realist?

Dreamer, definitely a dreamer!


3. Billy Joel or Elton John?

Hall and Oats!!! ha ha!!!
Seriously, I hafta choose? Really depends on my mood and which song.

4. What is the scariest movie you've ever seen? Not limited to horror flicks but also includes ones where the tension or suspense is killer, for example, Flightplan (2005): A bereaved woman and her daughter are flying home from Berlin to America. At 30,000 feet the child vanishes and nobody admits she was ever on that plan.

I listened to family that said the Ring was not bad....boy were they wrong! I had nightmares literally and that is the realist part of me speaking! I refused to see it again and closed my eyes for every single preview after that.


5. Now what is the scariest real-life moment you've had?

On December 3, 2005 I was abruptly awakened by the neighbor pounding on my door while yelling that the house was on fire. I did not believe him at first. When I was about 7, we received a call saying our garage was on fire. We ran outside and everything was fine, but when my dad reentered the house we had been robbed! My grandfather's shotgun was stolen. See, the accomplice called to get us out so the robber could leave through the back door. So, when this presented itself in 2005 I did not believe him.... then he screamed my name!

Thank the Lord that my house was not on fire; the shed was. When I peered into my living room it was glowing orange from the fire outside. We had not had rain that year in quite some time, unlike this year. Evidently, the idiots were smoking and put a lit cigarette in the trash can near the shed. They were inside when all the dirtbikes and gas cans began to explode. They escaped before I awoke; it is likely they left when my neighbor began beating on my door. I might mention that I had recently been troubled with insomnia and did not hear one single solitary explosion. I was told it sounded like a shoot-out! $40,000 worth of damage later, we were all fine.

The tree in our backyard which rested on our roof was on fire, but God in His protection kept all sparks from my home! My kids were safe and animals too! We were only without a guard dog for a short time. My Chow-Chow had died and our Chow-Shep Mix was only 2 months old and scared out of his mind. Needless to say no one enters our yard uninvited now.

Yes I would have to say we were all very scared but God and the neighbors were there for us 100%!


6. What word do you misspell without fail?

When typing I misspell "from." I get going way too fast and spell form which spell check will not catch.

When writing I leave out words, well I do that when typing too!!  Who am I kidding? I spell that wrong when in a hurry whether I am typing or writing!


7. Name something you like to do but are not really talented or good at.

I love to sing but it is not my God given talent!

8. Do you get your emotional/mental batteries recharged by being around people or by having alone time?

Definitely both!

9. Have you ever been on TV?

Yes! When I was 6 or 7 I was on TV while sitting on Santa's lap. In 1997 I was interviewed on the morning show in Tulsa for the Senior Citizens Health Fair and they showed up live as well! Plus I was interviewed on the radio too. Then once my voice was on FoxNews! It was Shepard's show. tee hee!



10. Apple or pumpkin pie? (Don't be greedy.)

Apple pie (but Pumpkin Dip or Pumpkin Pie Cake!) but definitely Apple Pie!! :-)



11. How many magazine subscriptions do you have?

Just one, Runner's World, for motivation....hasn't quite worked yet! But I am learning a lot!!



12. What lesson do you have to keep re-learning?
 
 What lesson do I NOT keep re-learning? Time management comes to mind first at the moment...while I sit here blogging at 4 AM! lol
 
Twas fun! Chel

A Jewel of a Find!

Our church has undergone some addition and in the process we are adding a library. They have emptied out some of the older books and set them out for the taking!! Imagine my surprise when I found a beautiful old book!! The illustrations are gorgeous in the book!

I have collected old books of various sorts since '94. My first find was book of poetry from 1895 by Keats which contained a pressed four leaf clover!!  But I believe this is now the oldest book in my collection.

This will be such a gem to read to my grandchildren one day!!!

It is called First Steps for Little Feet in Gospel Paths by Charles Foster, 1885!

I am absolutely elated!!! I have found several old books but this was the most exciting for me.

I cannot wait to see what they put out on the tables next!

Chel

What Kind of Legacy?

What kind of legacy will you leave, to what will your children see you cleave?
Do you cling to the eternal the Heavenly Father above, or do you wander aimlessly in search of an earthly love?
Do you seek Him out to be your strength and your shield? Or do you run through all the stops with a failure to yield?
Do you find yourself alone and out of place? When was the last time you sought out His face?
How are your knees these days? Do they bend and bow to your own will and ways?
Or do you bow to your Father, Healer, your Keeper? Do you ask for help or simply grow weaker?
To which direction when lost do you look? Have you thought that the compass may be found in the Book?
A book of His Laws, His Word, and His Ways, His Word has the Power to cut through the haze!
To secure you and keep you until He returns for His Bride, Will you walk right beside Him or find a place to hide?
Do you know He is forever a faithful, fearless friend? He is your Savior, your Guide, your Redeemer Amen!

This was on my heart today as I sit among the noise both outside and inside of me. When the bank account runs low will my faith also go? Will I sit and watch as life passes by or will I cry out and go on faith without blinking an eye? The days are growing shorter and the troubles of this life keep us focuses on what is temporary instead of living with the end in mind. If I truly want for it "to be on earth as it is in Heaven", then why would I worry and fret? Am I concerned with what is now only a moment in time or do I store up my treasures in Heaven to abide?

What are you dealing with today? Do you have need of prayer? Do you need an ear? Feel free to leave me a prayer request, if you do not want it published then please tell me so.

Dear Heavenly Father,
Please take all our cares and worries to keep sin from reigning in our lives. Assure us and reassure us again that you ARE here you ARE presesnt and you ARE active in our lives. Help us to be a living sacrifice knowing that eternity is at stake in so many lives. Amen

Love, Chel

Randommmmm DOZENNNNNNN

I so wish I could have had that grand theatrical voice announce this post! You know the type - "You should be in radio?" ha! I woke up in a goofy mood, that is what happens when I don't sleep well, or when I do? I forget which it is.
Here are my RANDOM DOZEN

1. Which is worse: a long, boring meeting or standing in a return/exchange line after Christmas?


Definitely the long return/exchange line after Christmas. It amazes me how truly horrible people can get (in front of and behind the counter) after celebrating the best bithday EVER! I try not to be one that helps the negative notion move on down the line but boy they sure are contagious.


2. Except for maybe Rosie O'Donnell or Ann Coulter, nobody likes confrontation, yet we all have to deal with it. When you feel cornered and defensive, do you "bite back" or become passive aggressive?

Both. It depends on who the attacker is. I think both are just terrible when used to their utmost evil. Nothing like a passive-aggressive getting on to you!! You know what I mean jellybean???

3. Do you know anything about your genealogical background? (What country, culture, ties to prominent historical figures, or other stuff.)

Yes, I am German. I am the third generation here on my dad's side and no one really knows much about my mom's side other than her dad, my precious grandpa looked like a leprechaun but in a good way.

4. What is the quickest way a person can endear him/herself to you?

Talk to me or comment back as it where. I love to converse all day and all night. Talk and laugh laugh and talk. Most of all I really do enjoy talking about what the Lord has goind on in my and the other person's life.

5. Cake, pie, cookies, or ice cream? (Note there is no "all of the above" option. You must choose one. Feel free to elaborate on flavor or memories tied to this dessert.) If you'd like, you can share a recipe, but you certainly don't have to.

Pie, millionaires. Oh it must must must have the buttercream between the cream and the crust, it is simply a must!! Merrit's Bakery in Tulsa, Ok has positively the best and Furr's Cafeteria has the second most best!!

6. Females: Do you regularly change your handbag to coordinate with your outfit?

I do, this helps me clean out the receipts!


7. Are you task-oriented or relationship-oriented?

Definitely relationship-oriented - I've been tested!! lol

8. IHOP, Bob Evans or Cracker Barrel?

Cracker Barrel! Oh yes!

9. Have you ever left a movie in progress in a theater? Why?

Yes, terribly offensive in nature.


10. What is one area of life in which you would like to develop more discipline or organization?

Mornings!! I need more "together" mornings.

11. Was middle school fun or painful?

It was a little of both. My 6th grade was still elementary for the school I happened to be at but 7th and 8th had its ups and downs but over all it was good. One of the most painful memories of a stupid boy hurting me was in 7th but the one of the times becoming a girlfriend to the best boy was in 8th. :-)

12. What is your favorite Fall beverage?

Pumpkin spice latte, pumpkin spice frap!! Love it!
This is so great Lid!! Thank you for creating some fun!! If you get a chance check out my little ditty on the previous one: http://abidingbranch.blogspot.com/2009/09/random-dozen-9909.html

You will love my church and hugs/kisses answer. Have a fantastic Friday.

Have fun ya'll! Chel

Random Dozen 9.9.09

Linda at 2nd Cup has given us a dozen more inquiries!!  Just click the button up above, play along, and share some love!!!

1. What is something that you have changed your mind about either recently or over a number of years?


GUINEA PIGS! Now, I'm not they should become a delicacy as they are in Ecuador, but I do wish we had never purchased them. (or allowed them to be purchased) A Top 20 worst decision. But they are cute...

2. Choose either subject, but does your a) church b) job feel more like a dental chair experience or an easy chair (recliner) experience?

It is more like a Mexican folk song! I, yi, yi, yi....buenos noches! No really it is wonderful and fruitful most of the time but I would not relate it to a recliner. It depends on the number of people and committees you have to sort through to be able to serve.


3. Kisses or hugs? I actually typed "huts," which might have been a more interesting question.

Oh yes, I could have had fun with "huts"!! Both, I must have both!!! X's and O's!!!
I like them both in a hut or even with a nut or on a bus make no fuss. In my home so I won't roam. I like kisses on my cheek for there they are oh so neat. I like hugs all the time and I hate it when my children whine. I like kisses I like hugs by the fire with my hubs!


4. What do you think is the biggest threat to families today?

Immorality! I heard a sermon from a guest speaker form England at FBC Woodstock via podcast dated 4.19.09 and he said something very interesting...."Instead of thinking our economic devestation is happening TO us  perhaps God is allowing it FOR us." I say this because I know finances could be a huge top 5 answer for some. (Maybe you remember his name Chel.)


5. A day after you grocery shop, you open a perishable item that is horribly spoiled. Do you take your receipt back to the store to be reimbursed or just throw it away and forget about it?

That really depends. If I need it right then and I do not have replacement then I will take it back, but usually I will toss it.

6. What personality trait (feel free to address good or bad or both) do you notice yourself adopting from your parents?

That is a hard one for me. I am seeing more and more of my Grannie in me though. She was my dad's mom and well I just hear her more all the time coming out of my mouth.


7. How many slices of bread do you leave in the bottom of the bag when you throw it away? Two? Three? Just the heel? None? (I really want to know if you eat the heel.)

I do like the heel. :-) I did throw one slice away today because I was very ill this morning and just looking at it made me yucky!

8. What mispronunciation or usage error really irritates you?

If I have to pick one it is probably, well I can't simply pick just one! One is the city of New Braunfels people pronounce it all over the place even to the point of adding consonants to it. Drives me nuts. And a darling family member says, "I seen ____ yesterday." drives me and another family crazy!!

9. In honor of the uniqueness of today's date, what does the numeral 9 mean to you? (Any special life moments attached to the 9th? Are you the 9th kid in your family? Can you count by 9s really fast? etc.)


The number 9? Other than its relevance to September I can't think of anything. I can count by 9's fairly fast. It seems as bad as I always was at math I am the one that helps the kids with homework. I have lived in my home 9 years!! That is a good one. This is the first house I have ever lived in, in my whole life, that was purchased. We rented my whole life. Yay, that is a good one. And I love my town most of the time. :-)


10. Does the general color palette in your closet match the colors you chose to decorate your home with?

No, I can't say that it does. I will wear much brighter and wilder colors than I will put in my home for the sake of my husband. Although orange is the strongest color in my kitchen.

11. When you're hanging out with friends in the kitchen, do you automatically ask to help, or do you sit there and chat until the host asks if you'd like to help? I'm not implying that the 2nd choice stems from rudeness or laziness, just not a first-response like it is for some people.

I ask for a task usually but have been known to keep talking without realizing it.


12. Let's end on a pleasant note: What do you enjoy about September the most?

Let's see, I love September!! The weather gets cooler (usually). My best friend's birthday is 9-12; my mom 9-22; my cousin is 9-10; my first huge crush 9-17, this list could go on!!

Thanks for the fun Lid!!
Chel

Project 365: Elbow Grease Defeat!

I could not leave you all hanging,  I had to show you exactly what the fabric softner dispenser is supposed to look like. Enjoy the freshness, I know I will!

What a difference!!!

Chel

Project 365: Super Sludge

Sara, this is not exactly what you had in mind in sharing wonderful pictures and growing in our knowledge of photography but I just had to share! I hope you got your nap today!

If you did not know Sara at A Year of My Life is hosting a year round photography blog! Check it out by clicking the button on the bottom of this post. You will love it!


Did YOU know that your fabric softner dispenser comes apart for cleaning? I did not! I know ewwww! It was gross, disgusting, faint-worthy, allergy keeper, mold grower, absolutely positively just down right wrong!

Friends, this was the worst moment for a Super Sabbath! I have, pardon me HAD, Super Sludge in my washer....check these out. I just be just absolutely embarrassed but just incase someone is as ingnorant to this as I am I must educate! I can live like this no longer!!!

"Wow, it comes apart!"

These two pictures reveal the wasted Downy in my washer. (Above & Below)

This is just WRONG!

No wonder my towels never lost that smell, oooo that smell, I always heard, "Can't you smell that smell?" ooo that smell!! Now I will be singing "so long smell, I can't smell that smell, ooo that smell my wahser never drained so well!! So long smell!"

Now it sparkles and is being washed with a heavy Stanley Home Degreaser!

Next, the towels!

Chel

August Project 365

I'm sorry to say I took a very long break but I hope to finish strong. These are a few pictures from our summer vacation at Padre Island! Our friend Sara at A Year of My Life is hosting this wonderful photography theme where we take pictures and post to share. Thank you Sara for allowing us who do not keep up back in when we stray!!

My silly girl!

Her joyful journey in finding amazing seashells! WTG Sara!

Corpus Christi - Texas State Aquarium

Beautiful Padre Island Sunset

Sandy son! He had been fully buried in sand!

UFC - Unidentified Flying Cloud

There's that smile we missed earlier!!

Ye Old Townhouse where I met Chel at the age of 4 when she was still 3!!! Yay!!

"I'm diving in!" This bird caught a fish!!! tee hee!!

I loved the way the water was caught in this picture!! (The splashes and the waves.)

The USS Lexington (Blue Ghost) at Corpus Christi. Check it out it was amazing!