Getting to know you/me! Six Random Things

The Rules:

1. Link to the person who tagged you - Brandi
2. Post the rules on your blog. (This is what you are now reading.)
3. List 6 random things about yourself.
4. Tag 6 people at the end of your post. (I made this optional, but anyone reading could do it if they want to.)
5. Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog. (Again, optional)

Random things about me:

1. I have always wanted to have been born in another time. Seriously. I would have endured the hardships to have been living in the time of chivalry, aprons, and long dresses.

2. I truly love being a homemaker, mom and wife; I wish I could get paid to give 100% of myself into it and not have to have an outside paying job.

3. There is nothing that makes me happier than being at home. Yes, sappy perhaps, but true.

4. Until today, making homemade bread was one of my goals. I am happy to say that I achieved making a loaf rather than a brick!

5. I used to be a type-A, perfectionist, overachiever, etc.. . . . and then I had my first child. I learned to let go and enjoy life. Seeing the "chaos" around me in my home proves that I have leared to embrace the moment and make memories rather than to-do lists.

6. My childhood dreams were to be a wife/mom, teacher, singer, and author. I have "achieved" the first three, and there is still time for number 4 - but, in the meantime, I am investing my time and efforts into teaching and loving my children and cherishing my husband and our marriage. They are my living destiny.

7. For fun, here is number seven: My husband didn't kiss me until we were pronounced man and wife! This was after he courted me for six months and asked my father for my hand. God has sent me a well-mannered gentleman who treats me as his lady. I am truly blessed beyond measure.

Graphic found at: http://thesimplewoman.blogspot.com/

My Brain Type. . . .

BCAR / INFP "Idealist"deep internal values; idealistic, romantic, appears calm; generally reticent; creative, avoids conflict, sensitive, aware of others’ feelings; sacrificial, welcomes new ideas; flexible, interested in learning and writing; composer; language skilled.

My birthday week

This is my birthday week. . .

and I am actually excited to be turning one year older!




I feel like God has amazing things in store for me this year,
and I am anticipating seeing the
Hand of God
working on my behalf as I continue to trust in Him!

"Taste and see the the LORD is good!"




I am excited this week to be reaching another year of life - #33!

"Beauty"

To all the beautiful women I know...I hope that this makes you smile, and makes you think.

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The following was written by Audrey Hepburn who was asked to share "beauty tips."

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For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.

For beautiful hair, let a child run his or her fingers through it once a day.

For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.

People, even more than things, have to be

restored,

renewed,

revived,

reclaimed,

and redeemed;

never throw out anyone.

Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of each of your arms.

As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands;

one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.

The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries,

or the way she combs her hair.

The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes,

because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides.

The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mole,

but the true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul.

It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows.

The beauty of a woman grows with the passing years.

Please join me in praying for President Obama. . . . .

(graphic found at: prayer and praises blog)

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Proverbs 21:1 (New International Version)

Proverbs 21
1 The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD;
He directs it like a watercourse wherever He pleases.

~~~~~

Proverbs 21:1 (English Standard Version)

Proverbs 21
1The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD;
He(A) turns it wherever He will.

~~~~~

Proverbs 21:1 (New King James Version)

Proverbs 21
1 The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD,
Like the rivers of water;
He turns it wherever He wishes.

Seven prayers x seven

From Bring the Rain: Seven Prayers a day for your children. . . .

Here are the events and verses (she) chose:


1. When they wake up: "Let the morning bring (child's name) word of your unfailing love, for she has put her trust in You. Show (her/him) the way (she/he) should go, for to you (he/she) lifts up her soul." (Adapted from Psalm 143:8)


2. When they are getting dressed: "Therefore, as God's chosen child, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Lord, help (him/her) bear with others and forgive whatever grievances (he/she) has against others. Help (him/her) forgive as the Lord forgave (him/her). And over all these virtues, help (him/her) put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." (Adapted from Colossians 3:12-14)


3. While they are eating: "Teach (child's name) the secret of being content in any and every situation whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. Teach (him/her) that (he/she) can do everything through him who gives (him/her) strength." (Adapted from Philippians 4:12-13)


4. When they go out of the house: "(Name of child), do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-His good, pleasing and perfect will." (Adapted from Romans 12:2)


5. While they are taking a bath: Lord, give (name of child) clean hands and a pure heart, and let (him/her) not lift (his/her) soul to an idol or swear by what is false. Let (him/her) receive blessing from the Lord and vindication from God (his/her) Savior. Let (him/her) be part of the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, O God of Jacob. (Adapted from Psalm 24:4-6)


6. When they are going to bed: "The Lord Your God is with you; he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, be will rejoice over you with singing." (Zephaniah 3:17)


7. While they are sleeping: "I pray that (name of child) will do everything without complaining or arguing, so that he/she may become blameless and pure, a child of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which he/she shines like a star in the universe as he/she holds out the word of life-in order that he/she may boast on the day of Christ that he/she did not run or labor for nothing." (Adapted from Philippians 2:14-16)

Reflecting on His goodness

Praise God - Thanksgiving!

I feel so blessed as I sit here to post my thankfulness to God for His blessings on me. . . .

Take the time to reflect and then share what God has done.

May God bless you and yours with a lovely Thanksgiving tomorrow.

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THANK YOU LORD FOR YOUR BLESSINGS ON ME

(a good song)


1. The world looks around me as I struggle along
They say I have nothing, but they are so wrong.
In my heart I'm rejoicing, how I wish they could see
Thank You, Lord, for Your blessings on me.
CHORUS:

There's a roof up above me, I've a good place to sleep.
There's food on my table, and shoes on my feet.
You gave me Your love, Lord, and a fine family.
Thank you, Lord, for Your blessings on me.

2. I know I'm not wealthy and these clothes are not new,
I don't have much money, but Lord, I have You,
And to me You're all that matters tho' the world may not see.
Thank you, Lord, for Your blessings on me.

Small Fryday Contest time - hosted by MCKMama

What a blessing this fellow blogger is to me, and I am excited to enter her contest that she is hosting on her blog: http://www.mycharmingkids.net/ I have been witness to the power of God in this family, and I enjoy reading of the miracles He is still unfolding in their lives day by day. (I have their button at the top of my sidebar also.)

Pay her a visit and be blessed!

This post touched me. . . .

Read it here in it's entirety and prepare to be blessed like me.

Starting the homeschool train!

We are so loving this homeschooling thing. Since making the decision to jump off of the treadmill of "normal life and expectations" a few weeks ago, our stress level as a family, and mine as the mother, has lowered tremendously.

That seems like an impossibility since I have taken on MORE responsibility and have less free time being a full time wife, mother, homemaker, homeschooler, and teacher of 100+ online students. . . but I think I have a peace in knowing that I have made the best decision for our family and I LOVE what I am doing every day. I love having my kids home with me and I feel blessed being able to invest the best of myself into them all the time.

Don't get me wrong - things aren't rosy and perfect, and we are not all beautifully living in harmony 24/7, but we are growing together as a family - and I am loving that so much!

I wish that I had more time to share what has been happening - but I am especially thankful for being given this chance to homeschool and wanted to share this as a "thankful " post. I don't take one minute for granted!

From a light-hearted post to a heavy one. . . .

I haven't written much by way of response to the election; I have been processing it for a few days and been too busy to post. Usually my blogs don't delve into controversial topics, but I was reading a blog written by my friend Trista, that really opened the floodgates of emotions for me.

I am including my comment left on her blog below since I really shared my heart - and I felt like I could also share it here. You don't have to comment, but if you decide to, please remember to be respectful and aware that I have sensitive people who also read my blog. Thank you.



Trista - You have hit a nerve with me today and have really encouraged me to speak out on a topic that is near and dear to my heart - for many reasons.

I have never been able to understand the "logic" of a profession that will take any step possible to protect and *save the life of an unborn BABY* (prescribe medications to save a pregnancy/administer NICU procedures to keep a preemie alive/perform life-saving surgeries in and out of the uterus, etc.) - and then on the other extreme do whatever it takes to ENCOURAGE and snuff out another life (or as these precious babies are also called, "the products of conception") *at the same level of development* - My mind cannot comprehend what these doctors, nurses, and other professionals are thinking. I also can't understand how much they may be motivated by *money* to murder rather than save lives.

I know that they are motivated to save or not save life based on many factors - such as the wishes and viewpoints of the parents about the pregnancy for example- but how can they not see the lack of consistency on their part? Is all truth relative? Is there such a thing as truth anymore?

Having a special needs child is life-altering; dealing with an unplanned pregnancy, carrying and then delivering a baby may not be in someone's plans; multiples are risky - - - but life is worth saving, no matter the cost. Of course that is my conviction, but I have had to talk this walk myself on some level or another and I don't regret choosing life.

I read something the other day talking about how many famous and note-worthy people would have been aborted for convenience sake if it had been legal in that time of history. Beethoven was an example. (Where would this world be without his music?!?!?!) My mind reels thinking of so many potential lives that have been needlessly sacrificed on the altar of abortion. I know a couple who 3 months before their large Catholic wedding made a decision that haunts them to this day. . . . Both of them live with such regret to this day knowing that they cared more about their reputations than their firstborn child.

I have also been through a D&C for a miscarriage - and I am so haunted by the procedure myself, even after almost seven years. The impact on a woman's mind and emotions, not only her body, is beyond words. My heart aches for women who have undergone this procedure and for their precious children taken so soon. . . . vacuumed and scraped from the "safe" place in their mommy.

I am rambling here, but this post made me realize I am also mourning the election of a man who will not seek to protect the lives of all Americans - born and unborn - I literally get chills thinking about the policies he will set into place that will not encourage taking responsibility for our actions or providing incentives to place these beautiful children with potential adoptive couples longing for the child they can never have. . . . The lists of these parents are MILES LONG!

The children aborted since the 70's would be here now working and helping to save the Social Security crisis - another weird fact, but as a politician, he might appreciate that. So much potential for life and creativity that only God knows the depth of has been taken from our society before it was time. . . .

I am not bittered but broken in my spirit that our future president is not Pro-life. I will be praying for him and the others who have the power in this country to reverse our very own Silent Holocaust taking place every day in clinics and hospitals around the country.

Thank you Trista for taking a stand for life. I am taking your hand and professing that I am with you in praying for and respecting our new President as our leader, but all the while praying and beseeching God to spare our unborn children.

God have mercy on us if we remain silent.

Bloggy quizzes - for comic relief and in honor of my anniversary!

I needed to take a break from working this afternoon, and my real-world friend Traci, from high school(!), had a fun quiz on her blog today.

I decided to try out a few just for laughs! They were pretty accurate, although I don't claim to be a perfect wife! (I'd like to be though. . . . :0)

Your Dream Engagement Ring Has a Round Diamond!

A round diamond is classic and timeless, just like your style Your diamond will always look with the times - and goes with everything Of all diamonds, round diamonds show the most sparkle They are often chosen by sweet, dependable women who make marriage their #1 priority.

(I never recieved an engagement ring from my precious DH, but this is what I would have picked out!)

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You Would Be a Good Spouse 95% of the Time

You have what it takes to be an amazing wife or husband. You are caring, patient, giving, and romantic. You are willing to work for a marriage. More than anything, you're not about to let your ego ruin a relationship. You are humble and unselfish. And that's the key to being a good spouse.

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You Are a Blueberry Muffin

You are a nurturing, domestic, homey person. Of all the types, you are the most likely to make your own muffins at home. You don't like to rock the boat, and you're most content when you're making everyone else happy. You are very loyal. You'll defend your family and friends, even if you secretly disapprove of what they're doing. You tend to be a bit shy and withdrawn. You don't make friends quickly or easily. But once you do make a good friend, the chances are high that you'll be friends for life.

Isn't that funny? I am a Blueberry Muffin! Who would have known? Makes me want to bake some now! LOL! My DH's favorite one is blueberry too!

I would like to be my hubby's Prairie Muffin though!

~ Have a super weekend! ~

Happy Anniversary Dear One

This week my husband and I will be celebrating our seventh anniversary. I can't let this time go by without telling him again how much I cherish and love him.

I love you sweetheart - my love - my soulmate. Our love on earth will only be matched by our love in heaven.

Forever and always, I'm yours.

XOXOGinaXOXO

First day of school tomorrow. . . . :-)

So, we are crossing the gangplank to embark on this "new" journey of homeschooling full-time! I am so excited to be able to follow God's leading of our family into this area. To be honest, I am only going from part-time homeschooler to full-time. It's just a tiny step, right? :-)

I felt led to follow up to my last post also. Those of you who are my readers, I want to let you know that I do not consider myself a "super-christian-homeschooling-mom-better-than-the-rest-of-you" with all of the answers - Far - from - IT!

Even though I am a trained teacher and currently teach High School English online, I feel inadequate to walk this path when I consider the responsibility I am choosing to take on. . . . . but then I remember the verse that promises that the Lord will be with me, and I know that I am going to be OK and that my kids are going to thrive learning at home. It really is the best thing for our family.

I don't know what the future holds for us, but I am at peace knowing that God is leading the way and will be faithful to show me (and Randy-Hubby) where we should go in this big step.

We are officially homeschoolers!

I am so happy to now be able to become full-time mom and also full-time teacher to my three kids starting next week! God has been with us and has led my husband and myself into agreement on this issue after being faced with no transportation to our school of choice and facing the only option of our neighborhood public school.

Of course we face a lot of work and juggling of responsibilities to make this happen, but I am humbled and thankful that God has answered my prayers and desires to invest the bulk of my time and energy in teaching and loving my kids!

Keep us in prayer!

National Infertility Awareness Week.

Not a day goes by that I don't thank God for my three children.

This song really touches my heart because I have walked the journey of infertility.

Please pray for those who desire to be parents and never forget to take the time to hug and love on the children God has given you.

Please pray for Tricia

(The picture is from her blog: http://65roses4pattysue.com/)

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Her story, with updates and pictures posted by her husband, is found here:

http://cfhusband.blogspot.com/

~

I have been following their story for many months.

~

I have rejoiced in their miracle birth of their daughter,

prayed during her lung transplant,

and followed their story as it continues to unfold.

~

Please pray . . . .

In honor of Wesley Randall - our baby in heaven

My husband and I were married on November 3rd. of 2001, and by early December (5th) we were shocked to be looking at a BFP on a pregnancy test!

We were elated and looking forward to the pregnancy, birth, and our first baby that was scheduled to come three days before my sweet hubby's birthday (EDD: August 12th.).

I spotted some the beginning of January, but the doctor wasn't too concerned. He ordered an ultrasound if I felt the need to go. Hubby went to work that morning and I went alone to the ultrasound to check up on Peanut- - - - but Peanut wasn't there anymore. The sac was empty.

I literally felt like someone had kicked me in the stomach and had their hand around my throat as the male ultrasound tech kept looking and looking for our precious baby - who should have been 9 weeks at that time.

All we saw was an empty sack - just like my heart felt and I left that place of "joy" with a broken heart and no special picture to share with family and friends. . . . There are no words. . . . I ended up having a D/C only two days later. . . .

I post this in honor of my child in heaven whose hand will forever hold a heartstring attached to my heart.

I am feeling God calling me back to fulfill my ministries to my family

Blessing our husbands challenge: http://www.reviveourhearts.com/pdf/30DayChallenge.pdf

My husband is a treasure from God - but I know that I can take him for granted in so many ways. I want to take the time to invest my love in him this month and allow God to bless him through me. . . . I pray that in these small ways I can enable him to know just how much I love and cherish him.

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I also want to make a more concerted effort to spend time every day investing the WORD into my children's hearts by having a scheduled devotional time with my children. I have always desired to have this time together worshipping and learning about the LORD, but I will now set aside a specific time everyday to make it happen. I am thinking that the time when we come home from school and have a snack together can become our time to feast on His Word also.

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Last but not least, I want to stay true to my commitment to set aside time to spend with God in prayer and reading my Bible. I can't serve with an empty tank! I have finished reading the great and inspiring book Passionate Housewives, Desperate for God, and I am not in bondage anymore to thinking that my special time has to work a certain way/or be for a certain length of time. . . . but I hunger for more time in the Word and in prayer. I need to redeem the moments I let slip through my fingers as time spent pursuing God. . . .

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These three things are vital, and if I am not striving towards the mark, I will not accomplish God's will in these areas. May God enable me to be found faithful.

Keep me in prayer!