WHAT IS A HOME?

I saw this poem on another blog and liked it.

WHAT IS A HOME?

A roof to keep out the rain.
Four walls to keep out the wind.
Floors to keep out the cold.
Yes, but home is more than that.
It is the laugh of a baby, the song of a mother, the strength of a father.
Warmth of living hearts, light from happy eyes, kindness, loyalty, comradeship.
Home is first school and first church for young ones,
where they learn what is right, what is good, and what is kind.
Where they go for comfort when they are hurt or sick.
Where joy is shared and sorrow eased.
Where fathers and mothers are respected and loved.
Where children are wanted.
Where the simplest food is good enough for kings because it is earned.
Where money is not as important as lovingkindness.
Where even the tea kettle sings from happiness.
Thatis home. God bless it.
~Madame Ernestine Schumann-Heink

Words of Wisdom from Mom

Saw this video and thought it was funny.

2nd graders ideas about Mom

Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions:

Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2.. Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.

How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring..
3. God made my mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.

What ingredients are mothers made of?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's mom like me.

What kind of a little girl was your mom?
1. My mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.
3. They say she used to be nice.

What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?

Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my mom eats a lot
2.. She got too old to do anything else with him.
3. My grandma says that mom didn't have her thinking cap on.

Who's the boss at your house?
1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball..
2. Mom.. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3. I guess mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.

What's the difference between moms and dads?
1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3. Dads are taller and stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friends.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.

What does your mom do in her spare time?
1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long...

What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1. On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet, maybe blue.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.

A few deals for Tuesday

Going through some of my blogs that I follow I found the following deals.

While surfing my facebook pages I found this free Kindle book offer on the Smart Couponing blog. I downloaded it for my computer since I don't have a kindle.

Sweet Pennies from Heaven tells you how to get a free 10 pack of Breathe Right Strips.

Death of Bin Laden

The big news around the world today is the supposed death of Osama bin Laden. Navy Seals supposedly shot him and he has been buried at sea. I am a doubting Thomas since he has already supposedly been buried at sea. I would be more trusting with an actual body. Assuming its true, on one hand I am glad that such a terrible person is dead but on the other hand I am sad that someone has died lost and undone. Its been almost 10 years since the terrible tragedy of Sept 11, 2011 and the loss of so many innocent lives but there have been so many more lives lost since then in the pursuit of Osama bin Laden. I refer back to the Bible "Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles" (Proverbs 24:17).
"Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord God: and not that he should return from his way and live? For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore, turn yourselves, and live ye."--Ezek. 18:23, 32

If bin Laden is truly dead, there are already people waiting to fill the spot. Evil runs wild in this world and the middle east has been a feuding ground since the days of Ishmal and Isaac. I pray that those who are lost will come to know the truth of Jesus Christ as their Savior before its too late. I long for the day when Jesus returns and we can leave this evil world for good. Evil seems to be making me more and more homesick as the days go by.

Revelation 21
1. Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.
2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.
3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.
4 He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Heads Up- Free Admission May 6th

Better Homes and Gardens is teaming up with botanical gardens across the nation to offer free admission to dozens of botanical gardens on May 6, 2011 to celebrate National Public Gardens Day. Check and see if there’s a participating garden near you and then sign up for a free admission pass. One pass will allow 10 people in free!

Invisible by Disciple

One of the lovely visitors to my blog yesterday had this song posted on her blog and I just loved it so much I wanted to share it with you. While searching for the lyrics, I found a great site for downloading free Christian music legally. Its called FreeCCM.



Verse 1
You’ve got my attention
There’s no need to hurt your self this way
You think no one will notice you’re feeling
When you cry yourself to sleep

You feel stuck on the outside looking inside
Wishing this life wasn’t your life
And you think you’re damaged way beyond repair
Well you’re not so far that I can’t get to where you are

Chorus
You wish you were someone else
Every night you fall to pieces
Knowing you can’t save yourself
I can see you, I can hear you
There’s a place where the broken go
There’s a room full of second chances
You’re not stranded on your own
You’re not invisible

Verse 2
I’m ready to listen
There’s no need to hold it all inside
The smallest whisper
I hear it when your strength has all but died

I need you to believe me, can you trust me
That what you see, is not what I see
The reflection in the mirror’s telling lies
Cause nothing you have done could change how much I love you

Bridge
You’re not invisible
I can see you as you’re falling on your knees
You’re not invisible to Me


Psalm 139:1-18

TSMS- Beautiful Things

I found this while surfing around this morning. I hadn't ever heard it but I like how the words spoke to me. Only God can take the ugliness of our lives and make them beautiful for His glory. Even once we are saved, there are still times when we feel ugly and overwhelmed by life. I try to remember that everyday we are one day closer to Glory.

Free Downloads

Both of these downloads expire at the end of April.

Christian Audio has 1 free download book a month. I just that this month's book is the Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom. Normally this book is $14.98 This is one of my favorite books. Corrie was a POW during the Holocaust although she and her family were Dutch. They were Christians led to help Jews escape and they were caught. Love this book. I read this book years ago and then went on to read all Corrie's books.


K-Love is giving away The Generous Mr. Lovewell by MercyMe. I just love MercyMe.

Easy way to peel potatoes

Saw this while surfing around and can't seem to stop watching. I did love Gilligan's Island but this seems dumb to me. But being who I am, I can't stop thinking about it and now I have to buy some potatoes to see if it works.

Ok, I bought some potatoes and have to say I was disappointed. Mine did not peel like the video. I will admit that they started to peel but then it was stuck all over. I had to skin it off with a knife to finish. It did peel a lot easier.

Samples

Wal-Mart has a sample of Garnier Pure Clean

U by Kotex free sample.

I used the coupons in last Sunday's papers and got 2 Nivea body washes for women for free at Wal-Mart. The coupons were for $3 off and thats the price at WalMart. I also got some Reach dental floss that earned me .12 cents on each one. Coupons.com has the printable right now for $1 off and its .88 cents there. Btw there won't be any coupons in this Sunday's paper since its Easter.

giveaways

I felt like entering some giveaways today and wanted to share with you.

1. One of my favorite things to try out is bath products. Even when I was a little girl I loved to soak in the tub. Connected2Christ is having a giveaway for bath salts in one of my favorite scents at that. It ends on April 24th so enter fast though.

2. Here is another giveaway from Connected2Christ that lasts a little longer. Its for 3 products from Honey Bee Holistics. I really want to win, I love trying out new products. This one ends on May 4th.

3. Be a fan of Melvita USA on Facebook and win Treasures of the Beehive Gift Set ends April 23, 2011 @ 12:00 pm (EDT)

4. Moana Saves has a giveaway for a Captain Planet dvd. I loved watching Captain Planet with my daughter and I still yet say "knowing is half the battle" :) Ends 4/22

5. Moana Saves is also giving away a book called Don't throw those coupons away. Being the coupon fanatic that I am, this book would be so awesome to read. Ends 4/28

G.O.S.P.E.L

Reading one of the blogs I follow tonight (Forever n Ever n Always) I saw this video. I wanted to share it with you.

cool win

Checking my email this morning I saw this email.

Penguin Group (USA) wants to let you know that you are the lucky winner of
our What the World Is Reading Sweepstakes!

Congratulations! You are the winner of the What the World Is Reading sweepstakes and won a sampler of selections from new books!


I thought that was pretty cool considering how much I love books and I love winnning :). This was a Facebook contest I am pretty sure. Thats about the 3rd one I have one on Facebook so you can win those.

Gum Soft-Pick Review

GUM Soft-Picks feature 76 soft, rubber bristles that easily slide between teeth to remove food. They clean deep and are more gentle on gums than wooden or plastic picks. They come with a portable carrying case so throw them in your purse, car, or desk to use whenever you need a quick way to clean your teeth!



I must be the last person on Earth who has tried the various toothpick alternatives but I just loved these. I was imaging something like a hard toothpick but they were very soft and worked great. I loved how they just slid between my teeth and the little bristles were like massaging fingers. It was pretty neat. (yes it does take little to amuse me :)) These were perfect for taking to work in my purse. I hate when it feels like something is stuck in my teeth and I can't brush.

Buy it here: You can find GUM products in your local store's tooth aisle. Click here for a printable $0.55 coupon good toward your next purchase!

Sweepstakes alert! Join Soft-Picks on Facebook and visit the special offers tab to enter to win $1000 in the "Get Social with Soft-Picks" sweepstakes. ( you know how I love sweepstakes so naturally I am entered)

I was provided a free sample from smile.ly 360 for the purpose of facilitating this review. No other compensation was received and the views expressed here are my own.

TSMS- I'll Pray for You.

The last night of Jubilee was awesome. This group is the one I wanted to see more than any others. I know I posted this song within the past month but I truly love it. I first heard it on my way to work one night and wrote the radio station to find out who the singers where. The message last night was about intercessors that we have.
1. other Christians- 1 Tim 2:1- I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

2. Holy Spirit- Romans 8:26-27
26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

3. Jesus Christ himself- Heb 7:25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

Praying for another is the greatest thing you can do help someone. When we approach the throne room of God on someone's behalf, we are full of power. You will never know the disasters, demon attacks and heartache you have been spared because of someone interceding on your behalf until you get to Heaven. Pray for someone today and lift them up before God.

Spring Jubilee-Wednesday Night

Yet another amazing night. I love how much Spring Jubilee is helping draw me nearer to God. Last night's singers are known to everyone in southern gospel. The Primitives call themselves a quartet although there are 6 of them. :)



The preacher's name was Larry Brown and it took a lot for me to find him online :). He was incredibly funny but yet while you were laughing you got closer to God. His message was about how appealing God is to him.

Wee bit Wednesday v41

{one} have you ever fainted?
yes, I am always anemic and have fainted as a result

{two} what is your favorite casino game?
the closest I have ever been to a casino was I went on a gambling boat years ago and played the slot machines.

{three} do you have a good sense of direction?
I have an excellent sense of direction. Even if I make a wrong turn I know the direction I should go in and end up back at the right place.

{four} laptop or desktop?
desktop but I want a laptop badly

{five} what is your go-to hair style when having a bad hair day?
pony tail

{six} do you read the newspaper on a daily basis?
nope nor do I watch tv

{seven} do you have a favorite celebrity chef?
I am not wildly into celebrity chefs but I do like Paula Deen.

{eight} what tv show would you like to make a guest appearance on?
House

{nine} do you have satellite radio in your car?
Nope. I listen to K-Love on regular radio.

{ten} what was the last movie that made you cry?
I can't think of one. I lean towards being depressed so I don't watch sad shows.

Spring Jubilee- Tuesday night

It was another incredible night at church last night. The singers were Wilburn & Wilburn from Oaklahoma. They are a father son singing group. The dad, Jonathan was the lead singer for Gold City. Man they were great and God started moving while they were singing. Here is a song they sang last night.



They ended their singing with this song and it was totally amazing.



Brother Ralph Sexton from Trinity Baptist Church was the preacher. He preached about sheep and the good Shepherd. He brought out so many things that I hadn't considered. I love a preacher who helps understand and implement what I have learned. He compared Psalm 23 and John 10. Sheep are always someone's property, they can't survive on their own. So who's property are you? I am inspired to write a Christmas play based on what he spoke of. I am going to let that idea brew in my head a bit. I honestly believe that Jesus stands ready to come back for His people any moment now.
“When you see these things…”
“All these are the beginning…”
“Watch and be ready…”
“In the last days perilous times will come…”
Now, even people that do not attend church are having second thoughts.
“Something is about to happen!”

The bible tells us that as the end gets closer we should be together in church even more.

Hebrews 10:25 says Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

Spring Jubilee

Thankfully I am finally back online. I had to switch from dsl to cable modem. I don't care what anyone says, DSL can't compare. Upload speeds were too slow for me.

This week is Spring Jubilee at church and last night was the first night. I had a wonderful time and was so blessed by God.

Archie Watkins was the singer. He used to sing with the Inspirations. Here is a song he sang last night. This song was written based on the email that went around about the old man who still goes and visits his wife even though she has Alzheimer's and hasn't remembered him in years.




The message was preached by Phil Hoskins from Higher Ground Baptist Church.

Here is a really cool idea that I think I will do for my grandchildren this Easter just because its different. Instead of that horrible plastic grass that gets everywhere and is such a problem, how about growing Easter grass! Isn't that a neat idea. It takes about 10-14 days to grow so I am posting now so you can get a head start since Easter is April 24th this year.

ATHEIST HOLY DAY

Before you get your panties in a bunch, I am aware this isn't true. Doesn't make the punch line any less accurate though. The great thing about this being my page is I can post want I want and you don't have to read if you don't like it.


Subject: Florida court rules on Atheist Holy day
FLORIDA COURT SETS ATHEIST HOLY DAY

In Florida , an atheist created a case against the upcoming Easter and Passover holy days. He hired an attorney to bring a discrimination case against Christians, Jews and observances of their holy days. The argument was that it was unfair that atheists had no such recognized days.

The case was brought before a judge. After listening to the passionate presentation by the lawyer, the judge banged his gavel declaring, "Case dismissed!"


The lawyer immediately stood objecting to the ruling saying, "Your honor,how can you possibly dismiss this case? The Christians have Christmas, Easter and others. The Jews have Passover, Yom Kippur and Hanukkah, yet my client and all other atheists have no such holidays."

The judge leaned forward in his chair saying, "But you do. Your client, counsel, is woefully ignorant." The lawyer said, "Your Honor, we are unaware of any special observance or holiday for atheists." The judge said, "The calendar says April 1st is April
Fools Day. Psalm 14:1 states, 'The fool says in his heart, there is no God.' Thus, it is the opinion of this court, that if your client says there is no God, then he is a fool. Therefore, April 1st is his day. Court is adjourned."

Meet me on Monday

I have been MIA this weekend so figured I best get back at it.




Question #2 (Do you scrapbook) compliments of Helen at
A Crafty kind of Truffle Thanks Helen!!!

If you have a question suggestion please email me at: nevergrowingold@hotmail.com and if I use your question I will give you a shout out!

Questions:

1. Crunchy or soft tacos?
2. Do you scrapbook?
3. Do you take any daily medications?
4. What is your favorite sound?
5. Where were you born?

Answers:
1. I don't eat actual taco's. I eat a sort of salad on a soft taco wrap. We take cream cheese, spread it like mayo on the taco, add some lettuce, tomatoes ,cukes and sprinkle with cheese, roll it up and bake until melted. We just love those.

2. no although I keep buying stuff and planning to, I just never seem to get started.

3. only vitamins and ibuprofen

4. silence :)

5. Georgia

A win and a song.

I got an email from Thrift Store Confidential that I had won 16-piece set of Rubbermaid Premier Easy Find Lids Storage Containers set. I am so thrilled and can't wait to get my win. :) I needed this since I have been having such a horrible month.

Here is a song that I heard on the way to work one night and just fell in love with. This song makes me ache to be able to sing :(

Freebies and a contest

We had a lot of ugly thunderstorms yesterday evening here in Mount Airy NC. I actually love storms normally and like lightning but I hate having to drive in them especially at night. It was scary going to work because it was so nasty. I made it by the grace of God. I am home from work now and here are some quick offers I had in my email this morning from various companies. Plus UPS brought me a book to read and review this weekend.

Get a free pouch of Uncle Ben's. I don't know if its the actual pouch mailed to you or a coupon for a free pouch though. 1 per household

I can't remember if I posted this one or not. Get a Shout color catcher sample from Shout's Facebook page.

Not sure how long this one will last since it says first 200000 but you can get a full size product coupon in the mail from Suave here on Facebook. I actually just got mine and it has been 5 hours since Suave posted the link. BTW its under the giveaway tab.

I love reading magazines and I get a ton free online. Here are two that I just signed up for.

3 months People magazine I have gotten a lot of subscriptions from Free Biz Mags and they are very easy once you sign up.

A free year of Working Mother magazine This was easy but you had to say no to a lot of various offers first.


Win a free handbag. Take a survey and tweet your answers for a chance to win a handbag between March 20, 2011 to March 27, 2011

Wee bit Wednesday v38

{one} what was your first job?
I worked as a part time cook in a retirement home. I was so excited to get the job that I forgot to ask how much I got paid even.

{two} have you ever seen a stand up comedian?
Yes, I went to a comedy club a few years back but don't really remember who it was. It was just a local person not someone famous.

{three} when was the last time you played mini golf?
I took an old boyfriend to Newport News to see his kids and we took the kids out for putt putt. That was around 2003?

{four} what was the last picture you took?
I took over 320 on Saturday while walking around town. This is the last picture I took that day, its of some very weird chairs that these people had sitting beside their hot tub. I haven't ever seen chairs like these. It made me wonder if she was a manicurist or something.

{five} burnt food: yes or no?
no… yuck.

{six} if you have a pocket full of change, what do you do with it?
the quarters go to the laundry mat or else for a Sunday paper.

{seven} can you touch your tongue to your nose?
no

{eight} do you scrapbook?
no but I keep buying supplies and saying I am going to

{nine} do you buy lottery tickets?
once in a blue moon when I am feeling daring and lucky.

{ten} do you prefer to be in front of the camera or behind it?
behind it… no doubt. I hate having my picture taken.

RIP Elizabeth Taylor

Sadly one of the last true Hollywood legends has died today. Elizabeth Taylor died of congestive heart failure. She was a woman who truly lived her life to the fullest. I always thought she was one of the most beautiful women ever. In some ways she always seemed to live both a charmed and a cursed life. I have no idea of where she stood in view of eternity but I hope she was ready for the next world.

Samples, coupons and giveaways

I was reading emails and surfing Facebook so I thought I would share some of the offers I have found.

Shout has a free sample and a coupon offer on their Facebook page.

Airwick has a coupon on their page for $4 off the ultra automatic spray starter kit. You can print this 2 times and either use it at Target where they are on sale for $4.99 and get one for .99 or else save them for next week when Walgreen's will have them b1g1 and not pay anything.


My oldest needs new glasses so Friday I am getting her a prescription from the optometrist but I plan to get the glasses from Coastal Contacts. They offer free glass and you just pay shipping. This is an offer for Friday only. I have seen a lot of good posts on this company so can't wait to try them out. # "Like" Coastal Contacts on their Facebook page. Click on the "Free Glasses" tab and follow the directions where it says, "get code now." Code will not be valid until 3/25/11 at 12:00pm (EST).
# Obtain your eyeglasses prescription from your Eye Doctor.
# Browse the eyeglass frames selection at coastalcontacts.com
# Make final eyeglass selection at coastalcontacts.com on March 25th starting at 12:00pm EST and use code USAFREE at check-out. You will receive the eyeglasses for FREE, but will need to pay for shipping and handling.



Here is a daily contest I have been entering on Facebook for a chance at a @25 Wal-Mart gift card. Ends 4/1/11

Enter at Batteries Plus for a chance to win an Xbox 360, ends 4/4/11.


My computer keeps locking up so thats all for now. I am so going to have to save up for a laptop.

Earthquake in South Carolina and North Carolina

Yesterday evening, I was in the kitchen when suddenly a bookcase in the corner toppled over and dumped all the books out. I told my oldest, "I wonder what caused it to fall since its been there for 5 months now." Today I get the news email letter and see that there was a small earthquake at the same time so I am thinking that even though it was quite a ways off that there were possible small tremors that shook the apt complex and caused this to happen. Otherwise I can't see why this bookcase would suddenly fall over when it hasn't been touched in months even.

2.9 Magnitude Earthquake Rattles SC, NC

Meet me on Monday

Questions:

1. What jewelry do you wear 24/7?
2. Do you twirl your spaghetti or cut it?
3. How many siblings do you have?
4. Were you named after anyone?
5. Coke or Pepsi?


Answers:
1. I don't wear any jewelry all the time. I am so absent minded I tend to lose it. I play with it and then end up laying it down and don't remember where its at. I had been married less than a day and thought my wedding ring was lost. After my husband took the drains and stuff apart, we found it stuck to the bottom of the bar of soap.

2. I am a twirler although I break it in half when cooking it so its not as long of a twirl.

3. Lordy this is complicated in my family. I have 1 brother on my mom's side that got adopted out and I didn't find out about until I was 15. I now know who he is but havne't met him since he isn't interested in his birth family. I have one sister on my mom's side who for whatever reason has chosen to ignore me. I have a sister on my dad's side who is addicted to drugs and I haven't seen in at least 15 years. I have one normal brother who I share a relationship with on my dad's side :). And people wonder why I am so different.

4. I wasn't named after anyone. I was named for a song. Lady Madonna by the Beatles was a hit the week I was born and my mother's cousin picked that for my name.

5. I live and breathe Coke. Our family is a coke family. Growing up, no matter what was wrong with you, my grandmother gave you Coke and now its so ingrained that I think the power of suggestion is what makes it work. I wasn't feeling well one day and my oldest told me that I needed some Coke to feel better :). We even have a ton of recipes using Coke as a ingredient.

Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola® Cake
like Cracker Barrel's®
Rich, delectable cake with Coke® and plenty of chocolate,
topped with an icing of more Coke® and chocolate.

Prep. Time: 1:25
Serves: 18

1 cup real butter - divided
1 1/4 cup Coca-Cola® - divided
1 oz. square semi-sweet baking chocolate
3/4 cup miniature marshmallows
2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - divided
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 tsp. vanilla extract - divided
2 eggs
3/4 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup chocolate syrup
3 cups powdered sugar

-In a saucepan, bring 1/2 cup butter, 1 cup cola, and chocolate to a boil.
-Remove from heat and stir in marshmallows until dissolved.
-Set aside and allow to cool to room temperature.
-In a bowl, Combine flour, 3/4 cup cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
-With an electric mixer, beat together sugar, shortening, oil, and 2 tsp. vanilla until fluffy; beat in eggs and buttermilk.
-Beat in 1/2 of the dry mixture, scraping the sides of the bowl often.
-Beat in cooled cola mixture.
-Add remaining dry mixture and beat for 4 minutes; batter will be thick.
-Pour batter into a greased and floured 13" X 9" X 2" baking pan.
-Bake on top rack of a 350 degree oven for 35-40 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
-Cream butter with an electric mixer.
-Beat in 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1/4 cup cola, chocolate syrup, and 1 tsp. vanilla.
-Slowly add powdered sugar, scraping the sides of the bowl often, while beating with the mixer.
-If frosting seems dry, add small amounts of cola until you reach desired consistency.
-Frost cake while warm.

Notes: Serve topped with natural vanilla bean ice cream.

Spring in Mayberry and a giveaway

I haven't posted any giveaways lately although I have entered some. I havne't been entering that many since I have mostly been reading other blogs and working. Yesterday was such a beautiful day that we walked along Main St in Mount Airy and took a ton of pictures. Went to the Mt Airy museum and took a bunch more. We went to Snappy's for lunch because I have been wanting to since we moved here. Its a lunch place thats mentioned on the Andy Griffith show a lot. We walked for 3 hours and I was tired when we got back home.

I ordered the pork chop sandwich thats their speciality but it just wasn't something I liked. I don't hardly ever eat fried food and am not that fond of pork chops so should have known but it was a great experience to say that I got the pork chop sandwich at Snappy's. The sandwich in the foreground is the pork chop sandwich, the other one is just ham and cheese.

This is the main giveaway I entered for today. A mom's take on things is providing the giveaway. Its for a Kodiak Pulse Digital Frame. I love taking pictures and showing them off and this would be such an awesome prize. Its actually a pretty amazing frame when you read all it can do. The giveaway ends March 31st.

TSMS- Give me your eyes

I have been hearing this song on the way to work and I just love it. Listen to the words and use it in your life to view others as Jesus would. This is such a wonderful day here in NC that I am going out to take pictures of all the beautiful trees and flowers of spring. I hope where ever you are that you will have a wonderful day and enjoy God's blessings. Remember "the joy of the Lord is my strength"

March is National Nutrition Month from Yoplait

Since yogurt is so healthy and this is national nutrition month I am participating in a spark from myblogspark. We love yogurt here and I actually just bought about $10 worth on sale so the frig is full of yogurt for my new diet. I keep hearing how it helps lose weight so giving it a go. One of my new favorite ways to eat yogurt, that I hadn't ever tried before doing a spark a year or so ago, is to put the container of yogurt in the freeze and eat it like ice cream. Here are some facts about Yoplait that were providing for me from Yoplait. Btw way the absolute best yogurt I have ever eaten in my life is from the Yoplait whip line, its the vanilla creme. I buy at least $5 a week of just that flavor, its so sinfully rich and delicious that you eat it and don't even know how healthy it is.

Explore the many nourishing options that Yoplait has to offer - with varieties like Yoplait Light, Yoplait Original, Yoplait Fiber One, Yoplait Kids and Yoplait Delight Parfaits. Each product offers different benefits, and loads of variety, to make eating well a no-brainer. Here are five great ways to ‘get your snack on’ with Yoplait this March!

1. Start spring off right with Yoplait Light’s Two Week Tune Up Plan – Replace breakfast and lunch with a cup of your favorite flavor of Yoplait Light, a whole grain and a piece of fruit and you could lose 5 pounds in two weeks. Go to Yoplait.com for full diet details. (btw there is a coupon offer on this page and you know how I love coupons)

2. Get more calcium with Yoplait Original style yogurt - Now with two times the calcium of the leading yogurt (50 percent of the Recommended Daily Value) in one convenient 6-ounce cup*, Yoplait Original style yogurt is committed to women’s health, offering a product that has even more of the calcium women need for strong, healthy bodies. Grab a free cup while supplies last during the Million Cup Giveaway on Yoplait on Facebook!

3. Try the newest flavor from Yoplait Fiber One – Yoplait Fiber One’s new Blueberry flavor yogurt is packed with filling fiber, calcium, vitamins A and D, real fruit and the great taste of blueberries. With only 50 calories, 5 grams of fiber and 0 grams of fat, this deliciously creamy yogurt won’t break your calorie bank.

4. Stress less over snack time with Yoplait Kids yogurt – With a wholesome and fun snack like Yoplait Kids yogurt in the fridge, you can feel good about what your children are eating at snack time. Yoplait Kids provides an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D, and has 25% less sugar than the leading kids’ yogurt**. With yummy flavors, and favorite friends like Dora and Lightning McQueen on the packages, Yoplait Kids is a hit with moms and children alike. (my grandkids think yogurt is pudding because thats what they get as snacks here so often)

5. End the day with a Delight Parfait from Yoplait – Even with two luscious layers providing a double shot of rich and creamy yogurt, these 100 calorie indulgences from Yoplait contain only 1.5 grams of fat per serving. Now available in two new flavors, Chocolate Éclair and Cherry Cheesecake, you can enjoy a dessert that’s 100 percent guilt-free.

*Leading yogurt has less than 25% Daily Value calcium per 6 oz.

**Yoplait kids has 9 grams of sugar per 3oz. the leading kids' yogurt has 13 grams of sugar per 3oz.

“Like” Yoplait on Facebook to keep up with the latest news and great opportunities to save on your favorite products from Yoplait yogurt.***

***Coupon offers for Yoplait yogurt are not valid in all states.

“I was provided with product information and the opportunity to win a Yoplait prize pack, courtesy of Yoplait through MyBlogSpark.”

Friday Memes

I am combining 2 meme's on one post. I worked 8 hours and got off and now they call wanting me to come work another 5 so time is short. I will try to visit the other bloggers as soon as I can.




1. Have you ever testified in court? For what? nope

2. Do you still have your wedding dress? yes, I keep wanting to make pillows or something out of it for my girls since they don't want to wear it.

3. Is there a special place you like to go when you're happy, sad, stressed, etc.? walking in nature is my special place. I especially like it near the water of some kind be it river, creek, lake

4. If you have kids, do they sleep with you? If you don't have kids...will you let your kids sleep with you when/if you have them? my girls are grown and they only slept with me if sick but I let the grandkids sleep with me when they stay over :)

5. Do you watch late night TV? I don't watch any tv at all.




This week’s statements:

1. I have got to be the worst singer in the world. I absolutely love it and when I get to heaven I plan on singing for several thousand years to make up for it. I can't carry a tune in a bucket even.

2. Although for the most part I love it, sometimes I wish I could just get rid of my_____ computer. I can't imagine not being online but this computer is starting to age and doesn't quite meet the needs anymore.

3. The best thing about where I live is ________ I have 2 wonderful balconies. One at the front and one at the back

4. Aside from a new house, car or big vacation, the first luxury I would buy myself if I won the lottery is __________ a state of the art laptop computer. I want one so badly.

Happy Saint Patrick's day

I don't really have much to say. I can't seem to get organized since I work night shift. I usually go all out because I just love this holiday. I have a couple of very distant ancestors from Ireland and I have always wanted to go there so I make a big deal but not this year. You have to love a man who drives snakes out of a place though. I don't' really have any plans for St Paddy's day and about the only thing I made that was green was St Paddy Fluff. I made this and took to work.

St Paddy Fluff (but you can change it to any color to fit anything)
8oz cool whip
6oz yogurt (lime for St Paddy and I use low fat)
.32 oz jello (lime for St Paddy and I use sugar free)

mix everything in a bowl until completely mixed together. Either dump into a graham or shortbread pie crust if you want a pie or just keep in the bowl for fluff. Refrigerate a couple of hours and serve. You can make it any flavor or color just match the yogurt and jello and get creative. Sometimes I make orange, or strawberry, possibilities are wide. There is about 600 calories in the whole thing if you use diet products and don't put it in a pie crust. Its quick and simple but everyone loves it.

Prayer for the Faithful by Saint Patrick

May the Strength of God guide us.
May the Power of God preserve us.
May the Wisdom of God instruct us.
May the Hand of God protect us.
May the Way of God direct us.
May the Shield of God defend us.
May the Angels of God guard us.
- Against the snares of the evil one.

May Christ be with us!
May Christ be before us!
May Christ be in us,
Christ be over all!

May Thy Grace, Lord,
Always be ours,
This day, O Lord, and forevermore. Amen.

8 Year Old Explains God

We laughed until tears came out our eyes.

8 Year Old Explains God

How to Explain God was written by Danny Dutton, age 8, from Chula Vista, California, for his third grade homework assignment

"Explain God".

"One of God's main jobs is making people. He makes them to replace the ones that die so there will be enough people to take care of things on earth. He doesn't make grown-ups, just babies. I think because they are smaller and easier to make. That way He doesn't have to take up His valuable time teaching them to talk and walk. He can just leave that to mothers and fathers.

"God's second most important job is listening to prayers. An awful lot of this goes on, since some people, like preachers and things, pray at times besides bedtime. God doesn't have time to listen to the radio or TV because of this. Because He hears everything, there must be a terrible lot of noise in His ears, unless He has thought of a way to turn it off. "God sees everything and hears everything and is everywhere which keeps Him pretty busy. So you shouldn't go wasting His time by going over your mom and dad's head asking for something they said you couldn't have.

"Atheists are people who don't believe in God. I don't think there are any in Chula Vista. At least there aren't any who come to our church.

"Jesus is God's Son. He used to do all the hard work like walking on water and performing miracles and trying to teach the people who didn't want to learn about God. They finally got tired of Him preaching to them and they crucified Him. But He was good and kind, like His Father and He told His Father that they didn't know what they were doing and to forgive them and God said O.K.

"His Dad (God) appreciated everything that He had done and all His hard work on earth so He told Him He didn't have to go out on the road anymore. He could stay in heaven. So He did. And now He helps His Dad out by listening to prayers and seeing things which are important for God to take care of and which ones He can take care of Himself without having to bother God. Like a secretary, only more important.

"You can pray anytime you want and they are sure to help you because they got it worked out so one of them is on duty all the time.

"You should always go to Church on Sunday because it makes God happy, and if there's anybody you want to make happy, it's God. Don't skip church to do something you think will be more fun like going to the beach. This is wrong. And besides the sun doesn't come out at the beach until noon anyway.

"If you don't believe in God, besides being an atheist, you will be very lonely, because your parents can't go everywhere with you, like to camp, but God can. It is good to know He's around you when you're scared in the dark or when you can't swim and you get thrown into real deep water by big kids.

"But you shouldn't just always think of what God can do for you. I figure God put me here and He can take me back anytime He pleases.

And that's why I believe in God.

Interesting News

March 16th. 3/16. It's John 3:16 Day! Please consider posting John 3:16 on your blog page: "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."


I just thought I would share some interesting news articles today.



I am not a Pepsi fan and I am not overly concerned about the environment since I believe in a new Heaven and a new Earth coming very soon but I just found this unique anyway and it certainly can't harm what time we have left and may make it a little better.
PepsiCo unveils 100 percent plant-based bottle | Comcast.net
www.comcast.net
Remember the Cola Wars? Get ready for the Bottle Wars. PepsiCo Inc. on Tuesday unveiled a new bottle Tuesday made entirely of plant material that it says bests the technology of competitor Coca-Cola and reduces bottles' carbon footprint.


I heard this on the way home from work and this made me cry and start praising God for His never ending mercy
California student from Japan finds family alive on YouTube
www.cnn.com
Akiko Kosaka, a student from Japan attending the University of California at Riverside, had lost all hope for her family in Minami Sanriku, the fishing village where more than half of the 17,000 residents are missing and feared dead in the aftermath of last week's tsunami.


Here is a song I heard on the way to work last night and just liked it. Its so catchy and upbeat plus its pretty much my life.

Meet me on Monday

Questions:

1. Do you have a fireplace in your home?
2. Can you drive a stick shift?
3. How many computers are in your home?
4. Are your taxes done yet? Do you do them yourself?
5. What is your favorite meal of the day?

Answers:
1. Yes and no. I have an apartment here in NC where I am currently working but I also have an apartment I just rented in WV that I might move into. Its a complicated situation. The fireplace isn't a real one, its electric and needs some work done to it but here is a picture.



2. No, I have dated a couple of guys who kept saying they were going to teach me but never followed through. Of course that could be why they are exes.

3. We only have 1 although I would love to have a laptop.

4. No they aren't done but I will be doing them myself.

5. Since I work 3rd shift my whole schedule is off track and I don't eat any meal on a real schedule. Normally I think my favorite would be dinner.

TSMS-When I turn to you

I wish I could get to and stay at this place. There are moments I am there but then its gone. I am trying so hard to keep trusting.

a couple surprise winnings

Last night before work I had this really cool email saying I had won.

"You are a winner in our JustFab 100k Fanfare Limited edition heart shaped clutch give away!! Thank you so much for entering and thank you even more for being a Facebook fan! We will do our best to give you the color of clutch you requested, prizes will ship out with in the next two weeks."


Then this morning I had an email saying

"Shipment Confirmation
Your prize is on its way!

Your prize was shipped on 3/07/2011 via USPS

Prize shipped: $10 Dollar General Gift Card"

When I entered the Dollar General Contest it said I won the very first time I played but I never got an email saying I won which is what the rules said so I thought it was a mistake so I was pleasantly surprised to get the email saying it had shipped.


So it pays to keep entering. I like even the small winnings. I am hoping the clutch fits what I have in mind for my girls for Easter. I thought since they are both grown up this year instead of baskets I would give them a purse or handbag of some kind with makeup in it. I have been buying sale items and am stocked up now just need the bags.

Meet me on Monday

Questions:

1. What is your favorite way to eat potatoes?
2. What was the last package that was delivered to your house?
3. What is your favorite scent that you love to smell?
4. Do you smoke?
5. Are your parents married or divorced?
---------------------------------------------------------------
My Answers!
1. About the only way I dont eat them is as potato salad but I think my favorite is probably good old mashed .
2. Sample size Valspar I won on Facebook.
3. Vanilla
4. Never have
5. divorced

Happy Birthday to my sister

My sister is another year older today :) Here is a picture of us when we were much younger.

Mountain Mover by the Talley Trio

I have been hearing this song on my way from work and I am loving it. It has such an uplifting beat and I love the words. I don't recall hearing of the Talley's before but I listened to them on You Tube a lot last night. Its a mother, father and daughter, trio and they are great. The dad got his start singing with the Hoppers which was a wonderful southern gospel group.

giveaways and a couple of good deals

I did some wicked cool deals this weekend. I was about the get 4 Arnicare muscle rubs, 5 boxes of Brillant tampons, 10 boxes of Royal gelatin, 6 cans of Hunts tomato sauce, a dozen eggs, 1 can of pringles, baking powder, chicken bouillon powder all for less than $5 using coupons and register rewards at Walgreens. Then I went to Target and scored a free pair of jeans for my oldest, 4 containers of Miracle Whip for $1.25 each, 2 bottles of UP & UP ibuprofen for free. I went to Lowe's foods and got 2 cans of Hunts pasta sauce for 20 cents, 2 boxes of hamburger helper for free. All using coupons from the internet.

This week if you go to Nivea's facebook page and like it you can print up to 2 coupons for $2 off 2 Nivea lip care products which are on sale for $1 each at Rite Aid this week so you can score some free lip care.

Excedrin has coupons you can print for $1 off a variety of their products. Combine this coupon with the one from Target for $3 off Excedrin 20 count and you get free Excedrin this week. Plus while at the Target site I saw a coupon for $3 off Benefiber and I have a couple coupons for $7 off 2 so that should score me some free Benefiber which I don't use but my best friend does.

On to the giveaways


Here is a giveaway for a $100 gift card at Susan Heim on Parenting, this ends on March 10th

I would love to win the Tangled dvd for my granddaughter for her Easter basket from Sara the Savvy Shopper. This ends March 20th

TSMS- God of this City

I am going to be out of town so in order to be part of the meme I am posting this song early. More on the theme of serving others and sharing God's word with them.

How God of this City came into being.


Bluetree singing God of this City


Chris' story on how he came to sing the song.


Chris singing God of this City

More giveaways to enter and a freebie

Here is a prize I so need. My computer is just having so many issues and I can't seem to fix it on my own. I have downloaded and installed all kinds of things. I am to the point of doing a reformat much as I hate that. Rant Rave and Roll is giving 20 people a software program to help fix your computer. Its designed for women who aren't IT techs. There are 20 winners and it ends Feb 28th.

I would love to win this prize. Its a stuffed teddy bear with your choice of fragrance. While you are visiting Mom blog check out the post on making a duct tape rose. I think its pretty neat. This giveaway ends on Feb 28th




Here is a freebie also. I don't think I have ever seen a Miracle Whip sample before but since its my bread spread of choice, I signed up for mine.

Happy President's Day

I saw this and thought it was pretty interesting. I sadly didn't recognize most of the presidents. I did find the morphing a bit frightening though.

Variety of blog giveaways

I have followed Connected 2 Christ a while now. I love to read family oriented christian blogs and this one fits the bill. She is having a giveaway for a flameless candle. I haven't ever used one of those but given my candle obsession I would love to try.

I have been wanting a laptop for a while now and just haven't been able to afford one. I am wanting the freedom to blog anywhere I choose plus this computer is getting out of date for what I use it for. I found a giveaway at Scraps of my Geek Life for a new Sony VAIO YB Notebook PC. I would so love to win this prize.


Here is a giveaway that everyone should enter. You win a prize pack of books for your local libraries. In today's economy a lot of libraries have had deep budget cuts and could use the extra books. Plus these are good quality books that you don't have to worry about whats in them.



BTW while surfing Facebook for some giveaways I found this coupon. FoodLion currently has Doritos b1g1 so I was getting a bag anyway so now I can get a free 2 liter with it. Not a bad deal at all.

Win some prizes

Apparently the breakup with J has been rougher on my than I know since in just 3 months I have went from looking 10-15 years younger than I am to now everyone thinks I am now 5 years older than I am. Not really encouraging. I found this site with a contest for some anti aging products and lets face it, its way past time I start using them obviously.


I found a cool site with a really cute contest. You can win a Cat Doll. I will admit it took me a bit to figure out the cat part. Pam Kelloggs Handmade Cottage Boutique Its not a funny situation the woman is in but she is hilariously funny and could get a job as a comedian


I so need to win this one. Long time readers of my blog will remember that 2 years ago I won a couple Pillsbury giggle dolls and now I have found a contest for a Pillsbury apron. I want this one. Check out the contest at My life with Rats


I have been trying to enter more contests since I have been so down.
I recently won a progresso soup pack, a set of lifetime movies and a Coobie bra.

TSMS- Make my life a prayer and I refuse

I have been having a spiritual crisis lately. Its so hard to believe that God cares for me when I haven't really experienced anyone on Earth like that. I am a person who needs proof and so I have been struggling the past week or so. It seems like I keep bumping into songs about service so I think maybe if I find a way to be of service I will find the solution to my problems. Here are 2 songs I found on the same day with the same theme to them.


Make My Life a Prayer

Make my life a prayer to you
I wanna do what you want me to
No empty words and no white lies
No token prayers no compromise

I wanna shine the light you gave
Thru your son you sent to save us
From ourselves and our despair
It comforts me to know you’re really there

Chorus
Well I wanna thank you now
For being patient with me
Oh it’s so hard to see
When my eyes are on me
I guess I’ll have to trust
And just believe what you say
Oh you’re coming again
Coming to take me away





I Refuse lyrics

Sometimes I,
I just want to close my eyes
And act like everyone’s alright
When I know they’re not.
This world needs God
But it’s easier to stand and watch.
I could pray a prayer and just move on
Like nothing’s wrong.

But I refuse.

‘Cause I don’t want to live like I don’t care.
I don’t want to say another empty prayer.
Oh, I refuse to
Sit around and wait for someone else
To do what God has called me to do myself.
Oh, I could choose
Not to move but I refuse.

I can hear the least of these
Crying out so desperately,
And I know we are the hands and feet
Of you, oh God.
So, if you say move,
Then it’s time for me to follow through,
And do what I was made to do.
Show them who you are.


[From: http://www.elyrics.net/read/j/josh-wilson-lyrics/i-refuse-lyrics.html]
‘Cause I don’t want to live like I don’t care.
I don’t want to say another empty prayer.
Oh, I refuse to
Sit around and wait for someone else
To do what God has called me to do myself.
Oh, I could choose
Not to move but I refuse.


To stand and watch
The weary and lost
Cry out for help.
I refuse
To turn my back
And try and act like all is well.
I refuse
To stay unchanged,
To wait another day,
To die to myself.
I refuse
To make one more excuse.

‘Cause I don’t want to live like I don’t care.
I don’t want to say another empty prayer.
Oh, I refuse to
Sit around and wait for someone else
To do what God has called me to do myself.
Oh, I could choose
Not to move but I refuse.

A few good deals

If you are like me and you take a lot of pictures you are always looking for deals to get them printed. One of my favorite photo sites is running a great deal right now. Snapfish has a deal where you get 100 photos for $5 and that includes free shipping. Upload your photos, Use the code CUPIDPICS at checkout, Pay only $5.00 including shipping for 100 prints (that’s only $0.05 per print!)

Since I am trying to redecorate my new apartment I am trying to find deals for that. Hobby Lobby almost always has a coupon out that you can use to get a great deal. Right now its for 40% off one item.

I do a lot of stuff on facebook now. There is a page for about every company out there and they do a lot of contests and giveaways on there sites. Here is a post from Tide.
Tide ♥’s you too and to show you just how much we’re going to do another giveaway this Thursday at 3pm EST! 5000 of you lovely fans will get a free full size bottle of Tide Stain Release spray! Go on, share the love! Happy Valentine’s Day! Sometimes these deals are hard to get and sometimes you get lucky. I have gotten several freebies this way and I just got an email that I won a Coobie Seamless Bra from one of the facebook contests I entered.

Free song download

One of the stations I listen to in the car a lot is K-Love. I just found out that they have a free song to download from ITunes. I didn't see anything to indicate this was a one time deal so maybe every 2 week or once a month its there. I will have to wait and see. The song currently on there is Christ is Risen by Matt Maher. I like to have my mp3 player loaded with songs that help me draw closer to God and I burn cds for the car with my favorite songs. It can get expensive buying all the ones I like so I am always on the lookout for freebies. Here is the song in case you haven't heard it.

2011 Grammys

Ok, I am a couple days behind but I am blaming it on the computer. I have a virus or some malware and have installed every program known to man and still haven't gotten rid of it. I need to do a complete reinstall but no time right now :(

I didn't get to see the grammy's since I had to work Sunday night. (btw I hate night shift, I can't seem to get a schedule and sleep in naps now)

Lady Antebellum, picked up five prizes, including song and record of the year. It marked the second consecutive year that a country act dominated the event, after Taylor Swift grabbed the Grammy glory in 2010.
I wasnt that fond of Need You Now when I first heard it and then after working at the prison and seeing that it was the inmates #1 song to share in letters, I really didn't like it. But now that I am trying to get over my last boyfriend, who I was so sure God intended for us to be together, the song has more meaning.




Probably the weirdest thing was Lady Gaga arriving in an egg. She is so weird, I can't even imagine what people see to like about her. It seems like being eccentric is more important than good taste. Every year the boundries get stretched farther.

Valentines from God

I thought this was pretty neat. The heart shaped island is amazing. I was also inspired by the heart shaped garden since this is something we could all do on a smaller scale.

Valentines from God

St. Valentine from www.catholic.org

This is just some information a friend sent me on St Valentine. I thought it was pretty interesting.


The origin of St. Valentine, and how many St. Valentines there were, remains a mystery.
The first representation of Saint Valentine appeared in a The Nuremberg Chronicle, a great illustrated book printed in 1493. [Additional evidence that Valentine was a real person: archaeologists have unearthed a Roman catacomb and an ancient church dedicated to Saint Valentine.] Alongside a woodcut portrait of him, text states that Valentinus was a Roman priest martyred during the reign of Claudius the Goth [Claudius II]. Since he was caught marrying Christian couples and aiding any Christians who were being persecuted under Emperor Claudius in Rome [when helping them was considered a crime], Valentinus was arrested and imprisoned. Claudius took a liking to this prisoner -- until Valentinus made a strategic error: he tried to convert the Emperor -- whereupon this priest was condemned to death. He was beaten with clubs and stoned; when that didn't do it, he was beheaded outside the Flaminian Gate [circa 269].

Saints are not supposed to rest in peace; they're expected to keep busy: to perform miracles, to intercede. Being in jail or dead is no excuse for non-performance of the supernatural. One legend says, while awaiting his execution, Valentinus restored the sight of his jailer's blind daughter. Another legend says, on the eve of his death, he penned a farewell note to the jailer's daughter, signing it, "From your Valentine."

http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=159

St. Valentine was a Priest, martyred in 269 at Rome and was buried on the Flaminian Way. He is the Patron Saint of affianced couples, bee keepers, engaged couples, epilepsy, fainting, greetings, happy marriages, love, lovers, plague, travellers, young people. He is represented in pictures with birds and roses.

Free Valentine Book Downloads

Surfing around I saw these e-books and wanted to share them real fast. We are going to WV for the weekend so I won't be around to do any postings. I plan to get a lap top real soon so I can be online while traveling.

21 Valentine Craft Ideas for Kids


7 Easy Valentine's Day Sewing Projects

Ride out your Storm

One of my favorite songs right now that I keep listening to over and over is Ride out your Storm. I have always loved this song but right now its pretty stormy in my life and I feel I am being tossed on the waves and need reassurance that I will make it through.

A man called Norman

These videos are worth the 30 minutes it takes to watch. The message is told in a humorous fashion but at the end of part 2 your heart will about break as you see yourself in it.

Lift up your face - Third Day

OriginaLyric.Info
Lift up your face, lift up your face
Salvation is calling, salvation is calling
You have fallen so courtesy far now
You don’t even know how, you are going to survive
(But) Just above the horizon
A new light is shining, breaking through the darkest night
Love is coming and it’s calling out your name
Lift up your face, lift up your face
Salvation is calling, salvation is calling
Lift up your face, lift up your face
Salvation is calling, salvation is calling your name
You feel like your life is fading
You’re tired of waiting, for your moment to arrive
But tomorrow will bring a song that you can sing
And your hope is gonna rise
Love is coming and it’s calling out your name
Lift up your face, lift up your face
Salvation is calling, salvation is calling
Lift up your face, lift up your face
Salvation is calling, salvation is calling your name
Oh yeah…
Do you hear Him calling?
Can you hear Him calling?
He’s calling out your name
He’s calling out your name
Lift up your face, lift up your face
Salvation is calling, salvation is calling
Lift up your face, lift up your face
Salvation is calling, salvation is calling your name
Can you hear Him calling?
Can you hear Him calling now?
Oh, can you hear Him calling you
He is calling you now
He is calling out your name
Just above the horizon
A new light is shining
Salvation’s on its way

Rules from God for 2011

Rules from God for 2011
1. Wake Up !...Decide to have a good day.
"Today is the day the Lord hath made; let us rejoice and be glad in it" Psalms 118:24

2. Dress Up !! ...The best way to dress up is to put on a smile.
A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
"The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearance; but the Lord looks at the heart."
I Samuel 16:7

3 . Shut Up!!...Say nice things and learn to listen..
God gave us two ears and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking. "He who guards his lips guards his soul." Proverbs 13:3

4. Stand Up!!..... For what you believe in.
Stand for something or you will fall for anything.. "Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as w e have opportunity, let us do good..." Galatians 6:9-10

5. Look Up !!... To the Lord.
"I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me."
Philippians 4:13

6. Reach Up !!... For something higher.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, And He will direct your path."
Proverbs 3:5-6

7. Lift Up !!....Your Prayers.
"Do not worry about anything;
Instead PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING."
Philippians 4:6


God answers prayer.

unbelief

saw this on a blog and it got me thinking. Does this ever apply to your life also?

Matthew 13:58 (King James Version)

"And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief."



How many miracles have I missed out on because of not believing and having faith? I believe God for my salvation but sometimes I know I don't ask in faith believing as I should. How am I tying His hands and limiting what he does in my life? Please pray for me to be more fully trusting



Lord, like the father in Mark I ask you to help me overcome my unbelief. Help me to have faith and trust in your word for my life.

Mark 9:24 (King James Version)

"And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief."

He will carry you

Sometimes its just nice to be reminded of just how much God is willing to do for us.

Maggies Poem

I found this surfing around today. I love Focus on the Family. We as Christians should be extremely careful and take this poem to heart. Never forget that we are the only Bible some people will ever read. I need to work on this in my own life. I need to become more like Christ.


Maggie's Poem {read by Lee Strobel on Focus on the Family}



Do you know,

do you understand
that you represent
Jesus to me?


Do you know,
do you understand
that when you
treat me with gentleness,
it raises the question in my mind
that maybe he is gentle, too?
Maybe he isn't someone
who laughs when I am hurt.

Do you know,
do you understand
that when you listen to my questions
and you don't laugh,
I think,
"What if Jesus is interested in me, too?"

Do you know,
do you understand
that when I hear you talk about arguments
and conflict and scars from your past
that I think, "Maybe I am just a regular person
instead of a bad, no-good, little girl who deserves abuse?"

If you care,
I think maybe he cares --
and then there's this flame of hope
that burns inside of me,
and for a while,
I am afraid to breathe
because it might go out.

Do you know,
do you understand
that your words are his words?
Your face,
his face
to someone like me?

Please be who you say you are.
Please, God, don't let this be another trick.
Please let this be real.
Please.

Do you know,
do you understand
that you represent
Jesus to me?

Hillsong- Desert Song

Brand new song for me but loving it.

My Savior My God by Aaron Shust

Aaron Shust is a new artist to me and I just love this song.

Blessed by God

Saw this email and thought it was just so moving.

PRAY THIS EVEN IF YOU DON'T FEEL LIKE IT!!
IT WILL ONLY TAKE A MINUTE.

I started not to do this,but as I read it....
I understood God to say,
'You need a miracle tomorrow'
so here goes...Prov. 29:25
Proverbs 29:25 (King James Version)
The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.

You never know
when God is going to bless you!!
Good things happen when
you least expect them to !!!!!!!!

Dear Lord, I thank You for this day,
I thank You for my being able to see
and to hear this morning.
I'm blessed because You are
a forgiving God and
an understanding God.
You have done so much for me
and You keep on blessing me.
Forgive me this day for everything
I have done, said or thought
that was not pleasing to you.
I ask now for Your forgiveness.
Please keep me safe
from all danger and harm.
Help me to start this day
with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude.
Let me make the best of each and every day
to clear my mind so that I can hear from You.
Please broaden my mind
that I can accept all things.
Let me not whine and whimper
over things I have no control over.
And give me the best response
when I'm pushed beyond my limits.
I know that when I can't pray,
You listen to my heart.
Continue to use me to do Your will.
Continue to bless me that I may be
a blessing to others.
Keep me strong that I may help the weak...
Keep me uplifted that I may have
words of encouragement for others.
I pray for those that are lost
and can't find their way.
I pray for those that are misjudged
and misunderstood.
I pray for those who
don't know You intimately.
I pray for those that will delete this
without sharing it with others
I pray for those that don't believe.
But I thank You that I believe
that God changes people and
God changes things.
I pray for all my sisters and brothers.
For each and every family member
in their households.
I pray for peace, love and joy
in their homes; that they are out of debt
and all their needs are met.
I pray that every eye that reads this
knows there is no problem, circumstance,
or situation greater than God.
Every battle is in Your hands for You to fight.
I pray that these words be received
into the hearts of every eye that sees it
in Jesus' name. Amen!

God Bless ! ! ! ! !
Just repeat this phrase and see how God moves!!
God I love you and I need you,
Come into my heart, please!
Know that you are already blessed
by the person who sent this to you

Dancing for Jesus

I saw this video and just thought it was awesome. So many Christians act like they have to be all solemn and long face when in actuality we have so much to be joyous about. I was raised Pentecostal and they were very strict and forbade dancing. I know their intent considering how some people dance but dancing for the joy and love of God isn't the same as a sensuous body movement designed to inspire lust. Lets get back to having joy in our lives and showing it. Imagine this many people filled with the joy of the Lord and showing it.

Psalms 30:11 says "Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness"

Psalms 149:3 says "Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp."

2 Samuel 6:14 says "And David danced before the LORD with all [his] might; and David [was] girded with a linen ephod."

Happy New Years

I don't know who wrote this since I just received this from an email that was forwarded to me. I liked the message and I wanted to share it with all of you. Happy New Year to everyone!!

Health:
I wish you happiness, good health and peace as we close out the year
1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants..
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy
5. Make time to pray.
6. Play more games
7. Read more books than you did in 2010
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile.

Personality:
11. Don't compare your life to others... You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don't over do.. Keep your limits.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously.. No one else does.
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need..
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with His/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree...

Society:
25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. Spend time w/ people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business.
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

Life:
32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
34. GOD heals everything.
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change..
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
37. The best is yet to come..
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.