Day 13 - To be a woman of Strength

Everyone in the world, (at least I am sure) believes women to be the strongest of the two species. Man provides, and women endure, right? But what happens when we have to be strong, to ENDURE, even when we don't want to? Well, that is when God comes in.

God CREATED women to be strong. Yes, some are stronger (or not) than others, and yes, some have more to endure than others, but that doesn't matter. God knows where to test us the most, and in today was one of those times, for me.

Granted it wasn't anything huge, and to some it may seem so silly. But to me, it wasn't. I grew up in a house that was very judgmental and critical, in every sense of the word. And unfortunately it rubbed off on me and into my marriage. But now that I have God in my life, I see things differently. 

She began to explain how she felt they should take priority and that they didn't feel like they were getting the upper hand. But in my new found faith in God, there is no one better than the other, so I didn't quite get what she meant or how she could feel that way. Normally I would have gone on and on with her, joining in her complaints and rants, or yelling at her until she got so upset she hung up the phone...but not tonight. I begin to explain my reasoning in the situation in hopes she would understand a little bit more, but I didn't get to far. Granted we didn't fight and we hung up in agreement, but I still felt a little defeated. "You've changed" she said. "How?" I asked. "You just have, you're just different." I didn't think so. But as I stood up for my husband and his family, no matter what my thoughts and opinions were, I felt...proud. Saddened by moms feelings, but still, proud. 

In that moment, I knew I had done differently in my words than I ever had in these types of situations. No one is perfect, and one day I hope my mother will understand this, and even though we may be right about others imperfections, it does not make it OK to talk harshly about them.  Especially to their other family members. 

As for now, I will continue to pray for each parents imperfections. But now I know I can relish in the fact that I knew what to do without fear or judgement :). I stayed strong. I stood up for what I believe, and for MY family :). For my husband. 

PROVERBS 31:25 - "Strength and honor are her clothing, and she shall rejoice in time to come."

Till next time bloggers and God bless. 

A day making small memories

So, some days its nice just to sit back and spend a little extra time. A little extra time tending to your favorite hobby, like gardening or scrapbooking. A little extra time talking on the phone with a long time friend, catching up. A little extra time at the gym. 

For me, it was a little extra time with my kids :).

Aidan went off to school and I decided to bake with my baby girl. 

We made Lemon Vanilla Cupcakes (and sky added the jimmies).

This is what they looked like after I took them out of the pan.

I also made my own frosting for them. Lemon Sour Cream frosting. SO YUMMY!

After the icing cooled onto the cupcakes it hardened a little bit, so perfect! 

Once I finished this portion, it was time to pick up Aidan. So after lunch time, they indulged in a cupcake each. So cute!

 If you are interested in the recipe, here it is!

1 stick of butter melted.
1 2/3 cup of all purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp baking soda
1 cup of sugar
1 Large egg
1/4 cup of plain yogurt
3/4 cup of milk
2 tsp of vanilla extract
2 tsp of lemon juice

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all of your dry ingredients in one dish. Next, mix all of your wet ingredients except for lemon juice into a mixer bowl or blender, or into a bowl with your dry ingredients if you plan to use a handheld electric mixer. Blend well until there is no grit, then add dry ingredients into blender or bowl mixer (unless you used the handheld) and blend well, again until there is no grit. Next add 2 tsp of lemon juice. Mix. Add sprinkles if desired.

Next, transfer cupcake mix to cupcake tin. I did not have any cupcake liners on hand, so I greased the entire pan with a paper towel with butter on it. But if you have liners there is no need to do this step. Fill each mold 2/3 full.

Place in oven for just about 20 minutes. I checked mine with a toothpick at about 15 minutes and they still needed some more time, so I found the full 20 minutes was sufficient, but all ovens vary.

While you are waiting, you can go ahead and make the icing. This is the recipe I used: Lemon Sour Cream Icing. I blended it all together in a blender and it came out perfect. It is wet and a little runny at first but dries on nicely after letting it set on the cupcakes for about 20-30 minutes. I loved it!

Let cupcakes cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to plate or cooling rack and let cool for another 20 minutes. Then add Icing and sprinkles and enjoy!

Then we hit the park. The first over 50 degree day before 4, so I knew we had to take advantage of it :)! The kids had a blast, and when we got home sky had her nap and fell right to asleep. All in all, it was a wonderful mommy kid day!

Psalm 127:3 

"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward."

 

Till next time bloggers, and God Bless. 

Day 12 - To walk through this life with you

You know when your walking down the pathway in the park, and past by that old bench that must have been sitting there for ages, and on that bench, just as it has aged for years, there is an old couple in their 80's, holding hands and smiling, looking like they are just as in love in that moment as they were when they first met.

That thing when, when you see it, you sigh and say, THAT'S what I want.

Then you continue walking, staring back at them, wondering, what did they do their entire marriage to still be that in love. 'Cuz whatever their secret is, I want to know.

I remember when Josh & I separated for some time. He was a wreck, and granted at the time I had no sympathy, I knew he was hurting. Well, he ended up getting really sick while talking to me one night during that separation and began to have a hard time breathing. Next I knew I was getting in the car and going to the emergency room. 1 hour ago I couldn't stand him and just wanted him off the phone, now I am worried sick, just wanting and hoping for him to get better. Guilt started to set in wondering if this was all my fault.

Then, as I walked in and saw him lying there in the stretcher in his state, I began to die a little inside. I knew, even though at that time I thought we would never be together again, I had to be there for him. Be strong for him and let him know, no matter what, I wasn't leaving his side. He was still my husband and I didn't want him to be alone.

It's amazing how things can make you rethink all your decisions. And now, with the perspective of God on my heart and in my mind, those "things" become even more apparent. No matter how much I disliked him during this time, I still loved him. How and why after all the mistakes he had made only God knows, but I did.

Ecclesiates 4:9-10 - Two are better than one, because they  have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow, but woe to him that is alone when he falleth, for he hath not another to help him up.

The challenge? If your husband is sick, troubled or weary be a companion that remains by his side. And if not? If all is going well in your lives? Praise God for the blessings upon you.

"Dear God, thank you for all the blessings I have in my life. Thank you for my husband, who is healthy and strong and continuing to try to be a good leader for our family. I pray that you continue to guide him and give him the courage and wisdom he needs on days he is struggling, and I praise you for the days where he loves us as you love us, and respects your word through actions in our home. In Jesus name I pray, Amen."

Day 11- To listen the best what I know how

You know what I figured out during this day? I am not that great at listening when I am angry. Now, I'm not saying I didn't have a right to be mad, because I did. I know it and he knows it. But that is not what this is about, being right I mean. 

I could go on and on about how he failed this challenge with a huge 'F' posted on his forehead, but this wasn't his challenge. It was mine. 

I felt like I was doing well, listening to what was going on and what he wanted, until I felt like he was sacrificing our time together. 

What do you do when you are caught between two different values God has for your love life? Mutually submit to one another, he says, make time for one another, he says, and consider others priorities as you would your own, he says. It is a 100% effort on both spouses parts, he says. But what do you do when one spouse notices the other is NOT giving as much effort as the other. This is tough, something I am still trying to understand. 

Yesterday I felt defeated and hurt. So I did the only thing I could think of, and that was to go to God in prayer. I felt I had listened to as much as I could until I knew he wasn't listening in return. 

But then there is the other aspect of all this, to watch what you say as you can't take it back later, and that love is not resentful or self-seeking, it is not easily angered and it keeps no records of wrongs. 

How do you know when to seek one over the other? Well, to be honest, I don't think you do. You just need to go to prayer and hope God will help. The flesh is a hard thing to deal with and we are all human, but being recently saved I feel I hold a higher duty to God and my family to work my humanly issues out that much more. 

I have a right to be angry. That I understand. But I don't have a right to shut my husband out or resent him when I am. Listening takes a lot of work. I mean REALLY listening, not just with one ear, or concentrating on one thing while the person talks to you about something else. I felt, last night, that God answered my prayers and tried to make Josh understand his wrong doings, but did I accept it there and move forward, no. I stayed upset. And although I am no longer angry, I am still disappointed and hurt. I will continue to listen, the best I know how. I won't give up, and I will continue to try and be the best wife I know how to be. But it works both ways my love. MUTUALLY submit, 100% on both ends.

So, today was a bust, to say the least. Neither one of us held up to our husbandly and wifely duties as God wants us to do. But not every day is going to be good. We have to learn to deal with the bad days just as we love living the good ones. No one is perfect and God understands this. We sinned and went against him and his love, and yet, he still died for us. He still loves us. Just as I still love my husband. That will never change no matter what kind or how many bad days we have. So even on those days you can't listen to him,  when all else fails, just remember to listen to your heart for him and face your issues to God in prayer, and seek out ways to apologize when needed, and find a way to forgive even when you did nothing wrong. 

1 Peter 5:6-7
"Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you"

Till next time bloggers, and God bless! 
 

Day 10 - To Love you

So, to love you. 

That was this chapter's title. Pretty self explanatory right? Simple and not to much thought for this one you would think.

But no, it really isn't. To love you. Well, I do love you, what more needs to be said or done? Believe it or not, a lot. 

As Andy Stanley says and as we have been learning in Sunday School...Make love a verb. It isn't just about falling in love then letting the rest of your relationship slide on that. Not in the least bit. It takes work and commitment. Just like a garden. You can't expect to plant the flowers/vegetables/fruits, water it once and let it be. Yes, they will begin to grow with your starter efforts (just like in the beginning of a relationship), but in order to continue growing you need to keep tending to it. Watering it, deweeding and giving it lots of TLC.

I like to think me and my husband are pretty good at this, but there are times we lose sight of it's importance.

The challenge was to find a special way, an out of the ordinary kind of way, to tell your husband you love him. Write him a note? Send him a text? Make him a card? You choose because you know him best.

I wrote a little blurb on a facebook status he put up and at dinner I placed a smiley face of pepperoni on his plate to make him smile. Unfortunately, due to the stresses we faced my little not so large efforts when somewhat unnoticed. Yes, I was discouraged and then turned to God in Prayer in hopes to feel better. Sometimes I show my love the best by caring...sometimes overcaring. And to my husband it just comes across as me being overbearing or critical, which I try not to do, but sometimes I just can't help it. I hate seeing him stressed or overworked or worried. So I just let him be, and hope to continue these efforts in the future. That is the point right? I don't want my "garden" to go unnoticed or feel unloved. Besides, to love your spouse. That is a daily deal, no matter what. It's just finding the right ways to show that love, keeping in my mind your husbands priorities and God's word.

"This love to which I speak is slow to lose patience-it looks for a way of being constructive.

Love is not possessive.

Love is not anxious to impress nor does it cherish inflated ideas of its own ideas.

Love has good manners and does not pursue selfish advantage.

Love is not touchy.

Love does not keep account of evil or gloat over the wickedness of other people.

On the Contrary, it is glad with all good men when truth prevails. 

Love knows no limits to its endurance,

No end to its trust, no fading of its hope;

It can outlast anything.

It is, in fact, the one thing that stands when all else has fallen" 

- Elisabeth Elliot.

 See? It doesn't always have to be doing a little something extra, but to also practice these values on a daily basis. That alone will show your spouse how much you still love him very much. Don't lose sight of the person you married because your wedding day should be one of the best days of your life. Full of joy and celebration and the reminder of who you married and why you married that person. Even in times of stress and conflict that love can still and always will be present. I promise.

Today's chapter - To Listen the best Way I know how....here is another doozy.

Till next time bloggers and God bless!

Day 8 & 9

So today is double wammy because It totally slipped my mind to put Day 8 into action yesterday. But it kind of worked out because Day 8 & 9 pretty much go hand in hand with one another.

Day 8 is To speak well of you in front of others

Now this may come easy, or so you may think, to most of us, especially of those of us who truly still are in love with our spouse, however, it is much easier said than done, even in couples who couldn't imagine talking badly about the other.

She talks about how they went out with their friends and had a great night laughing and enjoying each others company, but at the end of the night her husband was very quiet. She tried to ask some questions about why he was quiet...r u tired? did our friends say something to upset u? did I do something to upset you? And that's when she realized she and their friends were joking about something her husband does or did and didn't notice it offended him. Just like the way jesus was mocked on the cross, Im sure that is how her husband felt in that moment when they were joking about something as trivial as it was, whether it was about the way he brushed his teeth or did his hair, or to something as big as how he cried uncontrollably at a wedding like a girl. Whatever the case was, it was important to him and she realized she was wrong. Even though what they were joking about wasn't how he really felt about him at all, she still laughed about it, and it hurt his feelings.

It is so hard for us to remember not to do that, even when it really isn't supposed to mean anything, it can. Just like when a comedian takes stabs at one person just because he wants to sound funny. Even if what he is joking about isn't truly how he feels about that person. And that is wrong. This is one of those "put yourself in the other persons shoes" lessons. The Challenge? Look after your husband's heart, particularly by looking after his honor in public settings.

As Proverbs 31:11a says: The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her.

And Day 9 - To Protect your Reputation

Josh isn't perfect. He has made many mistakes. And no, I don't mean something like leaving the glass casserole dish in the sink without soaking it, or buying the wrong piece of furniture, no nothing like that. I mean big mistakes. Those hefty booboo's, the one's that make you take a step back and say, is this really what my life deserves to be like and is this the person I really want to be with for forever? Yeah, those mistakes. 

Anytime a mistake in that nature was made, I ran...not always physically, ran away, but I ran...ran to seek the advice and knowledge from someone else. And it usually was my parents, my mom in-particular. Let me tell you, man did they get tired of hearing it. In the beginning it was OK, and unfortunately my ranting and raving all the bad things about josh got my mom and family only seeing the bad in him. Which was horrible and completely my fault. It was always the same old thing, me ranting and complaining and whining about all the bad things he did and how I hated him for what he did that time. Then after I talked to her I would call up friends and rant to them. In that moment, and it's not until now that I realized this, I was being so rude and disrespectful to my husband. And not just to him but to everyone else I got involved too. Yes, he screwed up. Big. But how could I justify all that ranting? I couldn't. It didn't make me feel any better afterwards and it didn't change anything. At least not for the good anyway, so what was the purpose? There wasn't any.

Now, I am not saying you can't call up a friend or confident and speak to them about what is going on in your life, but be sure it's in a way to help the situation and to create peace. Not to talk badly about the man you are supposed to love unconditionally and create tension and anger. This one was a big deal for me, but I have learned, through new mistakes that have been made since coming to church, that it's not ok and there are better ways to go about it. Always. And now, now that I am handling those issues through God's Grace and Word, my parents are starting to see it. There is no more negative, and it's awesome.

The challenge? Whether you're talking to your friends, your family, or your children, protect your husband's reputation by being careful with the words that you choose.

Ephesians 4:29 - "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."

Till next time bloggers, and God Bless!

Our 2nd Birthday! 3/23/13

John 3:16-21   

16 For this is the way God loved the world: he gave his one and only Son so that everyone who believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world should be saved through him. 18 The one who believes in him is not condemned. The one who does not believe has been condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the one and only Son of God. 19 Now this is the basis for judging: that the light has come into the world and people loved the darkness rather than the light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone who does evil deeds hates the light and does not come to the light, so that their deeds will not be exposed. 21 But the one who practices the truth comes to the light, so that it may be plainly evident that his deeds have been done in God.

We,  Josh & I, were invited over to Pastor Glen Berube & his wife Jacquie's house for dinner last night. They are such gracious people to open up their home to couples from church and we are so blessed to have met them. I had asked Josh Saturday morning at breakfast if he was nervous about having dinner at their house. He said not really, but I said I was. I wasn't sure how to act, or If I would act the way I should, or that I would offend them in anyway, because I didn't want to do that because they are such a wonderful couple. 

But as we pulled up into their driveway, I wasn't nervous anymore. I was excited. I was excited to get to know them on a deeper level and to worship together and just have a wonderful night with 2 other wonderful couples. We got to talking about the church and how it has really helped my journey and our journey as a couple and how thankful we were for them to open their home up to us. We sat down with them and the Landi's and just laughed and talked over cheese and crackers, and I couldn't help but to begin to feel at ease. Just being surrounded by such beautiful people made me feel so strong and happy.
 
Then we sat down for dinner, which by the way, was ah-MAZE-ing! I can't wait to do it again, haha :). And the Landi's talked a lot about their college days and the things they experienced because of that and God. Glen shared his passion with the men and a little bit of "crazy pepper spray" (Only they will see the humor behind this LOL)! 

Then after enjoying dinner and desert and on to Allyssa and Josh's 3rd cup of insanely strong coffee, Josh asked a biggie. "Can you explain exactly what being saved means?" Glen brought out his bible and began to read. Nicodemus...the way he asked God in John 3, reminded me of Josh last night at dinner and how he asked Glen. At the end of exclaiming all our accomplishements as a couple, and as individuals and as a family even since we have began going to church and opening our hearts to getting to know God, Glen said, "Listen, we can do this right now. We can recite sinners prayer and that'll be it, your life will be changed for the better."

In that moment, that's when I knew I was ready, and so did Josh.

As we recited the prayer with Glen, I just started to think about all the great things we were about to endure and how so blessed I felt in that moment to be surrounded with such faithful and heartfelt people and I just knew it was the perfect time. After finishing, everyone was teary! It was a wonderful moment.

All night thereafter, I just kept saying, I am so happy! It is a wonderful feeling. 

I can't express how deeply grateful I am to Jacquie and Glen. Words cannot express enough how much they have opened my eyes, and Josh's too I am sure, to how beautiful our lives can be with the Grace of God. As we left their house that night Josh said what I had been thinking since desert, "I felt like we were having a family dinner." And it was so true. I didn't want to leave. Their hearts are so open and warm to anyone and everyone who walks into their lives, whether it be in sunday school, or at church at the end of service, or in their homes and everyday life...and I honestly can say that they inspire me. I hope to one day be like them. To see everyone through god's eyes and and have a pure heart, and just love all others as God loves us. Because that's what they have done for us and still are doing for us, and many others and I hope they see that. I hope they truly know all the good they are doing for so many.

This morning we made our way down to the front of the church and gave our Profession of Faith. All those times I sat up in the balcony wondering if I was ready, and I kept saying no, not today. Today, I knew. We knew. And the amazing thing was, I wasn't afraid anymore. 

 (I hope they don't mind <3)

"Dear God, I want to pray so deeply to you for Pastor Glen and his wife, Jacquie. Continue to show them your grace and mercy, and let them know how grateful we are to them and how wonderful they are. I pray that you continue to shower them with your love and honesty and faithfulness as you have done all these years. I pray to you to keep them in good health and good mind during times of struggle and I pray that you will give me and my husband the strength and courage that you have blessed this wonderful couple with so that we can continue to grow through your eyes and with a pure heart and love one another and all others in our lives just as you love us and just as the Berube's love all who come into their lives. In Jesus name I pray, Amen."

Till Next Time Bloggers, and God Bless!

Days 6 & 7 (I am a little behind)

So, I am somewhat behind. The last 4 days have been hectic, emotional, and focused on other things rather than my blog. Now with my youngest napping and my husband and son outside spending some quality time, I figured this peacefulness was the perfect time to reconnect to my readers :).

 So the next challenge was on day 6 - To Honour You as the head of our home.

Pretty strong chapter title, don't you think? When I read this chapter I was a little confused at first as where she was going with it, but once I finished reading I went back and reflected and reread until I finally truly understood.

The specific challenge was this: While you honor your husband as the head of your home, seek ways to encourage him in his role as a leader. "Well how do I do that exactly?" I asked myself. Do I press on certain actions he needs to fix, do I talk to him about how some things he does is letting down our family and god without sounding cruel? What do I do?

Then as I kept reading and reading this chapter over and over again, it finally dawned on me. This is what she wrote:

"It may seem foolish to many when I submit to my husband, but the foolishness of God is wiser than ours. Are we second class? Absolutely not, and no, every argument isn't our fault. But there will be times when we communicate in every way possible, and our husbands still don't see things the way that we do. That's when we can honor God by stepping back in humility and letting our husbands take the lead."

You don't have to sit and ridicule him on how YOU think he could be doing a better job at leadership and the role of head of household. You don't have to ponder what move you should make next to show him that's what he SHOULD be doing instead of what he feels comfortable with. No. Not at all. You can be still as a mouse and as silent as a whisper and he will know.

Trust is such a huge thing in a marriage. We have been without trust for a long time. At least my trust for my husband. And being without trust can cause you to have no faith. No faith in your marriage and no faith in your husband. We are not perfect, and just because God designed the man and father to be the lead of the family and the home, does NOT mean in any way shape or form that he won't make mistakes.

And he WILL make mistakes, and only by the Grace of God and ourselves as wives and followers of our Lord Jesus Christ can we forgive those mistakes, and STILL trust, and still have faith in the man we married and love so much.

So the next time you may THINK he is wrong and you KNOW you would do it differently, please swallow your pride and allow your husband to make the choice, even when it is the wrong one without a doubt. In that moment, you can only pray. Pray for your husband to have the eyes and ears of the Lord and the Wisdom he needs to continue to be that Leader.

Then Day 7 - I will Love you with a Pure Heart

What is a pure heart? Is it someone who doesn't make mistakes in spite of your spouse? Is it when you are constantly protecting your spouse's every move from harm? It could be...but how often can we say anytime we have done those things it never resulted in a fight, or a competition? Not often, at least not for my marriage. Having a pure heart is loving someone with the best intentions.

Even though you may not speak the words, doesn't mean your heart is pure. If you are thinking it, you are still leaving possible cause of things to get out of control. Just like with stress. When stress is eating at you from the inside, and you keep it all in thinking as long as I don't say anything or talk about it, it will be ok. That isn't always true. Eventually your gonna break, and even though your stress was as simple as an exam you have in a week or a new job you started and now hate, it could translate into yelling at your husband about working late or screaming at your kids for making such a huge mess one afternoon. See...pretty detrimental stuff. Don't be afraid to talk about things on your mind, 9 times out of 10, it's better to talk to your spouse about the stresses than letting it buildup inside. But remember, the stress isn't always about your spouse, so don't let it turn into anger towards him or her either.

The challenge? Keep the lines of communication open so that you can talk with your husband about the things that are on your heart. Nip anger in the bud by letting go of it instead of allowing it room to grow.

Nip anger in the bud by letting go of it instead of allowing it room to grow.

Have you ever realized on occasion when your husband does something that makes you feel so DISAPPOINTED to the point where eventually you just end up so angry? You held it in for days hoping the disappointment would fade and you could just forget all about what happened. But instead of forgetting about it, it ends up coming up in a conversation totally off subject from what he did and you end up fighting. Now, if I would have sat down nicely with my husband in that very moment I felt disappointment hit me and actually talked to him about it rather than letting it boil up inside, that fight never would have happened.

So don't ever be afraid to talk to your husband about something. Be pure of heart and allow God to be your guide.

Proverbs 4:23 - "Keep thy heart with all diligence for out of it are the issues of life."

Till next time bloggers, and god bless!

Day 5 - To give up my need to be right

I struggled today...

The challenge? Let your voice be heard, but put down any weapons of warfare (aka harsh words and actions). Practice holding your tongue when your angry, and carrying your burdens in prayer.

When I was younger, my dad's biggest phrase was one we have all heard before, but yet never really followed through with it most times. You know, that one when you were 16 and heard him say it for the hundredth time as you roll eyes and throw out a "yeah, yeah, I know dad." Yup, that one..."If you don't have anything nice to say then don't say anything at all."

Again, "If you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all."

 My mom and dad used to fight, often, when I was younger. And they would go back n forth for a good hour before my dad finally gave in and then slammed the door as he left. He would go on the longest walks. Just him and our puppy. Some fights he would be gone for 2 hours or more. Sometimes I was afraid he wouldn't come back. But he did, every time. And when I was young I just saw it as my dad leaving when things got bad, but now, I know different. Instead of fighting more with my mom, it was his way of walking away...or biting his tongue. "If you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all." And his faith, and love and strength to forgive her many times, kept him there. With my mom and with us. I'll always be grateful for that.

I think that this is tough for every single one of us. We all have our own opinions and thoughts and feelings, and we never have the will to admit we aren't the only ones that matter. Those thoughts and opinions and feelings effect every one around us. Our spouse, our children, our friends and family. All the people we love. When Jesus walked this earth, he had every right in the world to boast, and put himself first in front of all others because he was that important. But that doesn't mean it was the right thing to do. Yes, he was the most important person every where he went...but still. Just as Jesus bit his tongue whenever someone cursed or did the wrong thing or felt the wrong way, he remembered to humble himself to those he loved. Whether he was right or not didn't matter, it was always about doing the right thing in God's eyes. And that's what my dad was doing, putting my mom's thoughts n opinions over his own. Whether he was right or not.

I had attempted a new chicken dish tonight, and granted it came out...well...let's just say it wasn't in god's plan for us to eat that tonight, LOL. But, under the impression we would be eating dinner together and THEN Josh would be going to his new job, I had him say to me just as dinner was ready, "you know I'm not eating here right?" I almost about lost it. I had dinner ready early on purpose so he would have plenty of time to eat before work and still getting to spend time together. "You didn't tell me that" I replied. And he went on about how he needed to go do a few things for this new job before heading there n that he told me that last night. And he sort of did, but I still thought we would at least get to eat together. As I went on in my head about what I wanted to say, I then remembered about today's challenge. To bite your tongue when you are angry...and then I thought of my dad. So I turned my frustration into graciousness and made him a container of food to go so he could eat on the road. And that was it. No more harsh words, no fighting, and no unnecessary words were spoken.

As I look back to all those times I was so mad at my dad, only now is it I understand that he was doing the best he knew how in that time. Whether he went to prayer when he left for that long walk or not, he still did the right thing for everyone around, whether his argument was right or wrong. And now I can say I look up to him for all he has done, and continues to do. And I owe this new point of view to God.

I know I will continue to struggle with this, but I promise to continue to try at it for as long as I love. For as long as I love God, and those around me. Because it's the right thing to do.

Till next bloggers, and God bless.

How to feel a little happier

Today I came across a post from a young woman's blog and the title was 22 things happy people do different.

Thanks to Pinterest (see, i told you, OBSESSED :)) I came across this inspiring blog which I intend to follow after this post.

She talks about bettering things in your life, how to improve in different aspects of your life and so many other inspiring topics. I can't wait to go read more!

Go ahead and check it out, I dare you. It may make you think twice about your life, and make you feel just a little bit happier after reading it.

Successify your life!

Enjoy! And god bless

50 Ways to Love Him!

So I am going through my Facebook timeline as per usual, when I come across an interesting post from The Time-Warp Wife, which is a friend of Club31Women.

So with eager interest, I clicked on it and began to read. She talks about this one verse from the bible in Song Of Solomon. This is what it reads:

"For I've found him whom my soul loves" - Song of Solomon (3:4)

And then she goes on about how it truly just means to love your spouse with passion and from the soul. I love this because it reminds us of the simplicity of god's hope for us and our relationships. Specifically, for us women. Don't take your men for granted ladies, friends, family and every other women out there. Remember that men are much different than us and need different things. My husband used to hate when I wasn't working because he felt like he did all the "work." Now, I know he is not proud of those hasty feelings and he has gotten much better with this. However, when I look back at those times of struggle in our marriage and my unemployment, I also ask myself, what else could I have done to show him I was working? Well...that's where this list comes in. Now I understand, it wasn't for me to throw an extra load of laundry in that day, or to walk to every business on the street with 2 kids in tow filling out applications everyday...it was that extra kiss goodnight, or that long reach to his face to say "i love you" randomly in the doorway, or that special night dinner where we put the kids to bed early and eat later to enjoy each other, the candlelight, and our love.

Never in my wildest dreams would I have related those things as work in the eyes of my husband, unless it wasn't for God.

So ladies, the next time your husband is whining about the dishes not being done, or house being extra messy that day because the kids were on overload, don't react to harshly. Most likely he just had a hard day himself at work and just wants a little something "extra." So sit down behind him after he throws his tv show on and give him a massage, or put the kids to bed early and watch an old movie together.

Click on the link below to check out the list! I hope you enjoy it.

50 Ways to Love Him

Till next time bloggers, and god bless!

Day 4 - To seek the will of the Lord

Yesterday was such a great day! Josh was blessed with a second job @ night and I was so happy for him and us. He went in for the interview and they liked him so much he got the job on the spot! I am so proud of him. Yes, I was jealous when he first told me due to the mere fact that I've been looking for weeks now and have had 2 interviews and have been sending out resume's like crazy and yet still no luck. But then I remembered....what happens in my path is up to the Lord and what he has in store for me, and I put my faith in his plan for our family. Just like today's vow --> to seek the will of the Lord. And the challenge? Consider ways to invite Jesus into your marriage and make a conscious effort to pray for your husband often.

Granted, I know my husband prays for me as I do for him. But how to do it often was the challenge. I get so consumed on daily activities and praying for so many others, I sometimes forget to pray for my husband. Even when he may not need it. 2 nights ago I prayed, hard, for my husband to continue to seek God in his heart, for God to guide him in his path and give him the strength and courage to move forward even when it may seem challenging. And to give him the wisdom he needs to fulfill his fatherly and husbandly duties.

And low and behold, Josh is blessed with this Job. See? God may not always be there when you want him to be, but he hasn't forgotten about us. Everything he does for us he does for a reason. He know's where and when to guide us to new things and when and where to test us if need be.

I am so blessed to have such a trying Husband and a Gracious God.


Till next time bloggers, and god bless!

Day 3 - Make his priorities important to you

"So guess what?", he said while I listened intently as he got into the car.
"What?" I then asked. 

"I have another job interview wednesday for a night position!", he exclaimed excitedly.
"What are the hours?", I asked.
"I think 7-11pm." He answered

I then went quite for a minute and started to explain I hoped it wasn't to much for him from past experience. But before I continued on with my rant, I remember what I read earlier in the morning...To consider his priorities as I would my own. 
Every weekend morning or night out, I'm always whining "HURRY UP I DON'T WAN'T TO BE LATE!" B/c punctuality is super important to me (idk y thought some days).  Or when I am nagging about him rinsing the dish so I don't have to scrub it like a mad woman later when I do the dishes. And usually he does it. He moves a little faster or rinses that dish to put a smile on my face and a calm in my step...but usually when its my turn to reciprocate...i continue to nag, when in fact I should say "ok hunny."

So, i begin to rephrase my rebuttal. I begin to express that I was happy for him and to ask him about the company and the job and once he was finished explaining I said ok, sounds good. And that was it. And it felt good. I had the satisfaction with myself that I didn't cause stress or a fight over something I might have whined about. Yes, so he we will be away a lot more which means less time together, and yes he might be even more difficult to wake up in the morning, but he seemed so proud of getting an opportunity to provide more stability for his family, how could I be upset about that!?

I reminded myself about all those times I wanted to spend money on my scrapbooking habits, or when I chose unemployment so we didnt have to risk losing more money with daycare costs, and all those other silly little things, like rinsing that dish or rushing to make me happy, all those times he was putting me first, and I am so thankful for that. Thankful to him for being so understanding, even if in that moment I didn't see it in that light. Which is why this Staying In Love class and this book and God are opening my eyes up to so much! I am so blessed and grateful in so many ways and to know that I am making my husband feel just as important to me as my priorities and my kids are to me, makes me feel awesome.

Todays challenge? Consider ways to invite Jesus into your marriage and make a conscious effort to pray for your husband often.

It made me smile when I read this. I smiled because I know I am already doing this and I am so proud of myself to know It's working. We are still working on it on a daily basis, and some days its harder than others, but I am always praying for my husband. Whether we are at church, at night before bed, or during a stressful time or situation. He is always in my prayers and I know I am in his too :).

Till next time bloggers, and god bless!

Day 2 - A cup half full of grace

You know, after beginning my journey to finding god I beginning thinking about something so corny...if I ever have another child and it is a girl, she will be named Grace, either first name or middle name. Either way, she would have that as part of her name, somewhere. I know it sounds so silly, and I am not even thinking about have another kid yet! However, after reading today's chapter...it made it that much more clearer that it was so fitting. To have a daughter with the name Grace. 

God's grace we tend to take for granted sometimes, or just plain forget it's even there....but if I were to get pregnant tomorrow (even though it wasn't part of MY plan)...I know it was god's plan and god's wonderful grace to bless with something so special...and god won't give us anything he knows we can't handle. It's just like relationships. Even though you may not have been prepared to handle your husband getting a new job and needing to move and uproot, or you may not have planned on your wife getting hurt in a car accident and needing time out of work. Just like getting pregnant, even though you may not have been ready for it, and at that moment you may be upset or scared, you remember that God loves you and knows what you can handle, and then you begin to feel happy and think about all the good you are about to endure. So that move to florida for that new job now doesn't seem so bad, because yes you may be away from your family and have to make new friends, but getting to go to disney anytime you want or that house you always wanted to get you can finally afford because the to live in FL is MUCH cheaper :). Or that accident that put your wife out of work for 6 months just dwindles down to the fact that your happy she is going to be ok, and now you don't have to pay for daycare for some time. In every bad situation/matter, whether big or small, there is always that silver lining. And that right there, is God's grace :).

The challenge for Day 2 was to keep negative thoughts in check by reminding yourself that we are all human saved only by the grace of God. And it is so true. 

Yesterday our car had an issue with the radiator hose, and in the moment, fear sets in because now the part we need costs almost 200 bucks and we need to pay the rest of rent. So do you fix that car part or pay the rent? Both situations cause negative thinking towards everyone just because of the stress and fear alone. And every time josh spoke about something about the car I wanted to react on that stress...but I didn't. I was not only kept calm by the grace of god, but good friends just reminded me that it could have been worse. The whole radiator could have blown, or the car could have overheated and we would not have even been able to drive it. Josh did so well keeping it together too. He found a solution and we were able to fix the part much cheaper than originally anticipated and pay most of the rest of the rent too. So see? Behind every negative, god always has a plan and it will all work out as long as you keep in mind, God will make it OK. 
I found today to be easier than I thought it would be for me, and I am so happy it came so easily to me. God's grace is so wonderful...which is why someday, if I ever have another girl, she will have Grace as part of her name. To remind us everyday how wonderful he is and what he does for us. 

Today's challenge is a doozy: Place those things that are the most important to him at the top of your list. And it's so funny (God working again) because this is what Sunday School was about yesterday. Not caring so much about you and what you think is most important and right, but to whats most important in the eyes of your spouse. Today should be a good day :).

Till next time bloggers, and god bless.

The Baskets are "Fenito"!

After not being able to find sharpie paint pens and needing to use a paint brush and acrylic paints intsead, I am finally finished!

I must say, I am pretty proud of myself. They came out so cute and they are the perfect size. Not to big, not to small...granted I couldn't fit the baseball bats we got for the kids, all else was a success! And the best part is I can continue to use these every year.

 Here is Aidans:

 

And here is Skys:

And here they both are all filled up and ready to go!

So if you take on this project, the bins are from hobby lobby and obviously stuffings is at your own discretion, haha. Have fun and I hope your kids love them! My story will be that mommy made the tins and the easter bunny will fill them. But what is most important is that this year they each get their own bible. 

I was so humbled when my son was looking at Josh's bible the other day and then he asked for his own. It's amazing how contagious God's love is. 

Isaiah 54:13  All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children.

Till next time bloggers, and god bless.

Day 1 of 21 days - To be a constant friend & companion

So, yesterday (Day 1) was "To be a constant friend & companion"....she talked about back in the beginning...when the two of you always wanted to be together, laugh together, and do things to impress & value one another. All the negatives you didn't notice or pay no mind to, all the annoying little things were things that caught your attention and all his interests you didn't necessarily have interest in didn't matter b/c all you wanted to do was spend time together. Yeah...that "stuff". The stuff that, now (5 1/2 years later) I (and we) sometimes take for granted. During the beginning stages you are always interested in your spouse, wanting to get to know them, and really (I mean REALLY) paying attention to what their likes and dislikes were, what their goals and dreams were and admiring them for BOTH their similarities to you AND their differences. But fast track to right now in your relationship and most of us can say that even though we have made it 5, 10, 15, or even 50 years we tend to forget. Forget to REALLY pay attention to our significant other.

I know in our marriage, between the chaos of our children, financial burdens, lack of stability in a home, and past issues, it gets so hard to remember to stop and rewind. Laugh together, appreciate the differences you have and learn to express interest and love what your spouse wants, and enjoys, and is passionate about.

Now, I am not saying we all have time to take that weekly night and decompress with our spouse without the kids, without the financial issues or without stress in general, but what I am saying is remember to take those "time outs". Think back to when you both FELL in love with each other and try to incorporate those simple small things that you did back then that made you appreciate your love in the beginning instead of focusing on all the other "stuff."

One thing that Josh and I have always done, from the very GET-CO, was spend time with friends. We both enjoyed being social and laughing together. Josh used to play in a band, he was a trumpet player for " The Bobby Fleet Band". It was something he LOVED doing and that he was passionate about, and you know what...I LOVED that he was so passionate about something, and I embraced that and in turn, going to gigs became something I loved doing, together. He played, and we both got to enjoy time with friends, both old and new, and it created a bond. Although he is no longer in the band, I can still take away something so important from those days...our friendships. We shared the same friends and loved spending time with them, together.

So, what was the challenge? To carve out time in your day to enjoy moments of friendship. Now I'm not saying we went out to hear a band, we are no where near that place in our lives anymore, haha. But, we still share the same laughs and friendships. So, we got together with some of our closest friends and ordered chinese, ate desert and just talked and laughed until 11pm! And, we try to do it as often as we can, and the kids were home and yet we still had a good time. When we get around other people we love and enjoy Josh relaxes so much and his "jokester" side comes it, and although some of his jokes may not be funny to me, it doesn't really matter because I am just happy to see him happy and to laugh again, and in turn it makes me laugh too. You don't always need to remove or take away the stressful things in your life to enjoy each other and just be friends. Believe me, if I could just make all our stresses go away with a blink of an eye, I'd be the genie from nick @ night! LOL. But I can't and you can't, nobody can. Those are the types of things that keep us young in our relationships. The little things....

 

You know, back when me and Josh first started dating he used to be such a cornball, and I loved it. One night it was snowing, and I was driving home from his house and as I pulled away from his house I noticed he wrote "I love you" on my windshield. I know ladies, "aawww", right? Some of you guys might think, "seriously!?" Well yes, I am serious. And how did he ask me to be his girlfriend? He wrote it in the snow...and all these cute small and corny things melted my heart. And even though we don't have time as much as we used to for those things...he is still trying and remembering. During that huge snowstorm we had a few weeks ago, he carved out a heart in the compacted snow so on valentines day morning it was right there next to the car. And even though my expression may not have been the same as it was 5 years ago when he ask me out in the snow, it still melted me heart :).

So, the book's challenge was to take time to enjoy moments of friendship, and my challenge to you is to just embrace the small things and don't get consumed with what YOU would have done or what YOU think your spouse should have done.  I tend to get caught up in that, a lot. And even if your spouse doesn't always reciprocate, still do it. I promise with friendship and selflessness at the forefront...your love will either continue to grow, get deeper, remind you of the good times, or at the very least, get you back on track to bettering your relationship and each other.

Go out and hang with friends, or stay in and listen and dance to your favorite song you first shared, read the bible together or sit and watch a movie that made you laugh your socks off together. My in-laws have a sign up in their home that reads "Being happily married is being married to your best friend." I never truely understood what that meant until today. So keep that in mind the next time you would rather call your mom to talk instead of your husband, or run off to have beers with the boys instead of facing your emotions and fears with your wife. It WILL help...God said it, so I believe and have faith in it.

At the beginning, you are open, and trusting and forgiving, for love. Years later you forget what that was all about. Why you did it and maybe even how you did it. But the more you forget, the less you continue to do it. And as you do it less and less, that spark, that close friendship you both once had when you fell in love begins to break. So do me a favor and go mend it, or make it stronger...it can only better your relationship and the love you have for one another.

Proverbs 17:9
"Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends."

Till next time bloggers, and god bless.

The Ultimate Marriage Vow

So last night I was on pinterest (as per usual) and came across a pin from a fellow practicing christian (and old friend). The pin was a picture of a book, and the title read "The Ultimate Marriage Vow; 21 days of a life long commitment.

It's actually a free Ebook anyone can download, on behalf of Club31Women - Club31Women. She is a christian women dedicated to her children and husband. So after reading the first couple pages of this book, I cried. Here is what it read:

My husband, my treasure, from this day forward

I take thee to be my constant friend and companion.

To accept your flaws with understanding and grace as you also do mine,

and to consider your priorities as I would my own.

Seeking the will of the Lord for our lives,

I give up my need to be right, 

Knowing that we are on the same team.

I will honor you as the head of our home,

loving you with a pure heart and speaking well of you in front of others.

I vow to protect your reputation,

To love you and listen to your heart in the best way I know how.

I'll walk through this life with you

As a woman of strength and integrity,

And do my best to guard our castle from harm.

Celebrating your strengths, I trust God with your life.

Loving you without expectation and planting my days with hope,

I'll seek to understand and embrace the differences that we have.

I will lovingly bear with you remaining true to our lifelong commitment.

Always upholding our marriage in prayer,

I vow to honor and respect the man that you are,

Both today and throughout all of our days on this earth.

It reminds me of God's will for us and our marriages. I know all my fellow OSBC followers will appreciate this post, but also, I hope it may help to open the eyes of my friends and family who are married or in a serious relationship as well. 

Me sharing this, to some of you, may come as a shock because as you all know well that I was not raised religious by any means. My mother is Jewish, and although my dad grew up in a baptist home, he did not continue that path once marrying my mother. I always believed in God, and felt deep down he did exist and that there was indeed a heaven, however I never knew the depths of his love and how good it will feel to dedicate my life, my marriage and my family to him and to a church and his word until we began going to OSBC. I came from a somewhat broken home...my parents did not have the perfect marriage and still don't. And although they stayed together, to say they still are in love is something else entirely. And coming across this book after all the struggles Josh and I have faced while being unsaved, and although we have yet to be, we are well on our way and are so thankful and blessed that God has opened our eyes and hearts to him. If it weren't for these things, I honestly don't know if my marriage would even still be a marriage. And although I feel I have made great strides as a wife from who I was 1 year ago, I am not perfect. That third phrase of the vow is my hardest; "I give up my need to be right, knowing we are on the same team." I get so adamant sometimes that he is wrong, and don't want to let that go, but then I think of being on the same team and that I do want. So no, I am not perfect, not in my eyes or in God's eyes, and some days it is very hard to deal with the flesh and the devil. But I know with my undying faith that I can surpass those days and be the wife I truly want to be.

So, I ask all wives, girlfriends, fiance's and the alike to take the challenge with me! Just go to the link above and like her page, then click the link below and download the book! I downloaded it to my phone so I have it with me, everywhere, at all times. You do not need to be a Christian or even a godly woman to do this, just have an open mind and an open heart, and be truly dedicated to your soul mate and STAYING in love :). Remember that "Make love a verb thing"? Well, this DEFINITELY could help with that.

The Ultimate Marriage Vow

Till next time bloggers, and god bless!

Mommy Daughter Dates

So, I have been reading a lot about Moms going out with their daughters and it has inspired me to right my top 5 "Date Days/Nights" for moms and daughters to share together :). 

Whether your daughter is 2 or 22, these basic memories never get old (or are too soon to start sharing). 

I am not a parent expert, by NO means, but coming across so many mommy daughter blogs and SAHM lately, I felt this was a good time to post My thoughts on the matter.

 1. Play Day at the Park & Photo shoot! - Nothing like some quality time with mommy just enjoying the simple things...and make it fun! Feed the ducks, take a walk too, and take lots of pictures! These small simple moments go by so fast.

2. Shopping Spree & Lunch! Spend the day shopping, and even if you don't buy anything you can try on some shoes and window browse. Skyler may only be 2 but she loves sitting in her carriage and just looking at all the "girly stuff". Then go sit down for a nice lunch, just you and your girls.

3. Date Night! Some of my family think I am crazy about wanting to take my 2 year old to a movie in the theater, but I am just about ready to attempt it. Even if you don't make it through the whole movie with your younger ones, just the idea of going to the big screen, eating popcorn and chocolate and spending it just with mom will get her excited. And don't forget dinner before hand. Get dolled up together and head out to a nicer meal...keeping in mind it is still somewhat kid friendly for the little ones :).

4. Spa Spotlight! Mani and Pedi's have always been a favorite of mine, and doing it together with my mom and sister, and I cannot wait to share this with my daughter as well. Though my daughter is still a year away from joining me at the nail salon, she loves to sit with me at home and paint her nails, so adorable! Just getting time to relax, and talk and laugh with my mom is a joyful and blessed reminder.

5. Day Trip! Yes this could turn into an expensive one, but sometimes its nice to "get away and splurge" so to speak. And making it into a memorable mommy daughter time is even nicer :). Head to the southwick's zoo, or go into NYC for the day...you could even take a bus...and see a show and have lunch, or go to central park or visit The American Girl Store if you have a little one...itll be the coolest place to her, for sure! Or if your feeling adventurous and have a little more to splurge, take a weekend getaway. Use your imagination.

So that's it. My take on the Top 5 Mommy Daughter Activities...some I have yet to do with Skyler but she is still young. But I plan to make the most of her growing up and do these activities as much as possible! I am so lucky and blessed to have such a charming and sweet daughter, and I don't want to ever miss out on showing her she has a charming and sweet mother who thinks the world of her and loves her very much!

“Behold, everyone who uses proverbs will use this proverb about you: ‘Like mother, like daughter.’- Ezekiel 16:44

Till Next Time Bloggers, and god bless!



 

Make love a verb!

So...today was a very informative day at church.

Last week we started a Sunday school class 8 week program called "Staying in Love". There are so many matchmaker's out there to help you FALL in love, but how many of you can say you actually know of people who help couples STAY in love? I didn't know of ANY until we were introduced to Andy Stanley.

We were put to the test to put each other before ourselves and to MUTUALLY submit to one another and love us as he loved us. "No you first, no you first, no you first..."! Then today we had a discussion about it. Until this class I never looked at love as a verb. I always looked at it as something you felt, an emotion, but once it was put into this perspective and it really made me reflect on a lot and let me tell you, its a magicall sentence...Make love a verb! I mean, how much of us complain all the time about how our significant other constantly forgets about the things they did to make us fall in love with them in the first place?! I am sure all of us have had thought that at least from time to time...I know I have. But remembering to MAKE love...a verb that is ;)...to each other on a daily basis, in the little things, is so important. Whether it's that kiss on the forehead just before going to sleep, the wrap around hug from behind while your wife or husband is cooking, or giving your partner the remote for the night.

It is so easy for all of us to fall into a rut, thinking once we FALL in love, the work is done...but its not. So many marriages fail these days, or become just..."there"...but they are no longer alive, because we forget. We forget that STAYING in love takes work and effort. None of us are perfect, even when we wish the other could be. So ladies, cut your man some slack and the next time he forgets to call you or does something behind your back, chances are it was either a mere slip of the mind or something much deeper to WHAT he did...so forgive him. And men, the next time your lady starts yelling at you about not doing the dishes or helping with the kids, cut her some slack too. She's probably just overwhelmed and simply just needs a really big hug...so forgive her.

Bottom line...MAKE LOVE A VERB! Guys, on your way home from work stop by your local florist and get a nice bouqet of flowers, just because :). Girls, on your way home from work or an outing with the kids, stop by the local liquor store and grab your guy a 6 pack of beer, just because :). Moms, spend those extra 10 minutes you would on your computer or phone cuddling with your kids, because before long, they won't want anymore "cuddle" time. And dads, instead of plopping in front of the TV EVERY night after work, take those extra 10 minutes and play barbie with your daughter or cowboys and Indians with your boy. Just remind the people you love the most in your life that you care. These are such small gestures that mean SO much!

So...as god said, love one another as I have loved you...forgive even when they may not deserve it, sacrifice even when your scared, hope even when all may seem lost, and have faith to give you the strength and the courage to move forward with each other. And...MAKE LOVE! A verb that is :P!

Till next time bloggers...and God Bless <3

Yarn Egg Success!

So, today I made it to the craft store and got down to business on those yarn eggs! After the first two balloons I was beginning to lose hope and let me tell you, mod podge = MESS! I felt like a 6 year old kid again playing with slime, LOL! And just a side note - the directions MIGHT say allow 2 hours to dry but these eggs needed a good 4 hours to really dry, and some were even still a little wet. I recommend allowing them to dry overnight, I will def. be doing that next time, and yes there will be a next time.

So step one was to get everything together:

Mod Podge - when I got to the store and noticed there were roughly 7 different types of mod podge I almost fainted and threw in the towel there, but I went with my gut and bought the hardener mod podge and it worked great! Whoever said your gut isn't always right didn't have a woman's intuition.

A bowl, scissors, and paint brush - The bowl was for the mod podge for dipping the yarn and the paint brush to paint over the yarn once it was on the balloon (and to help get it out of the bowl) Also...be sure to have loads of paper towel in arms reach because you WILL need it.

Balloons - you will blow them up just barely, to form the shape of an enlarged egg.

Yarn - I found these Easter colored rolls at Hobby Lobby for 2 bucks a piece, but I am sure any craft store will carry something similar.

Vase - this is optional. I decorated the eggs inside this for a table centerpiece, but you can do anything with these. Maybe hang them up somewhere in the home or something similar.

Once you are finished "mod podging" the yarn on the balloons, just place them on a tray with aluminum foil and let them dry (remember I recommend at LEAST 4 hours, but preferably overnight).

Once they were dry (mostly) I took a sharp pointed knife and popped the bottom of the balloon where the knot is...then lightly pressed the air out of the balloon then pulled out the balloon SLOWLY through the bottom where the balloon knot is. Complete this step with all the balloons then, wah-lah!

Even though it was not the easiest project I have ever attempted, the end result was well worth it!

So yes, this pic was edited with Instagram and the eggs are much more vivid in color, but I could not resist!  I am so happy with how they came out...now onto the next craft!

Till next time bloggers!

Blogging journey begins!

So, today begins blogging 1 0 1! Not really sure if I am going to be any good at it, or who will read it, if any one, but I am excited to share my love for my family and our accomplishments and growth with each other, ourselves as people and as a family, and with god.

Me and my husband have began to really embrace the love god has for us as people, a couple, and as a family. It all started last year when my husband's cousin welcomed us with open arms to their church, in hopes to relinquish hope and courage in our marriage and with his self search. GOD BLESS THE CORRIVEAU'S because it truly was a blessing in disguise.

I must say I was quite apprehensive at first, not really sure how to feel about it, but I knew I wanted to embrace the change to be supportive of my husband and to not let fear get in the way. Then, some months thereafter my husband received his bible from his dear friend Erik and shortly after that I felt in my heart it was time to by myself one as well. We finally owned our own bibles! It has taken us up until now to really start embracing the change of excepting the lord in our lives but let me tell you something, It has been the best change I could have asked for. All you non believers out there, please listen to me...if you are struggling with life's negativity, or addictions, or just are feeling lost, I promise if you put your trust in god and let go of the fear for just one day, you will feel so liberated and it will change your life, if you are open to it that is :). I am so glad that I was.

Our next step will be to introduce children bibles to the kids. Easter is less than 1 month away now and I am so excited to introduce them to their own come basket time! Which reminds me...you NEED to see what I came across on Pinterest a few days ago. I am so excited to do this this year I can't start soon enough!

My favorite thing about these is they are reusable! No more buying new baskets every year, and they are personalized. Can't get any cuter than that! So if you are in the mood to take on a DIY project this easter, head down to your local Hobby Lobby or craft store, buy yourself some tin bins and sharpie paint pens and get to work!

One other project we enjoy together as a family on Easter is eggs! Also thanks to Pinterest, I am going to be taking on one more knew craft project this Easter; YARN EGGS! Looks super easy and it will be such a cute touch for a table centerpiece. Whether I fail or not is not the concern here, its whether or not Mod Podge will get more on my children than on the yarn! LOL. So hit your local dollar store, grab some balloons, yarn and stop off at the craft store to pick up some Mod Podge, and you are all set to go!

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Let me know how you make out if you take them on...i'll be posting my success (or lack there of) once I am finished!

Till next time bloggers!