Thankful Thursday: Courage

This week Laurie chose Courage as our Thankful Thursday theme.

When I first read the word I too thought of the "Wizard of Oz" movie. I thought of things like the courageous battle so many fight against cancer. Another was the courage to stand up for Jesus. I also thought of a song with this verse.

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6

I am reminded that God is with us in whatever we face. It doesn't matter if it's big or small. He will give us courage to say what we need to say. He will give us courage to do what we need to do without fear. He will give us courage to stand for right when all around us people are choosing evil. I am thankful He is with me in hard situations and gives me courage when I need it.

Other things I'm thankful for this week:

~ My husband coming home early. He had an appointment Wednesday afternoon and was home early. It turned out to be perfect timing. He fixed supper while I fixed a cake to take to a lunch on Thursday. When he took over the supper preparations in the kitchen it made me feel like I was going to finish my tasks. I did and the supper was excellent too.

~ My sweet son who is growing up so fast. This week he learned to tie his shoes. Next week we go sign up for kindergarten.....

~ Our upcoming trip to San Antonio. We are looking forward to this time together.

~ The beautiful rain we've received. I've loved the coolness and the sound of the rain this week.

~ My two sweet friends who've had birthdays this week...Casey and Steph. Both are special friends in my life!

Hope you have a blessed day! Thanks for visiting today.
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"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6

A new blog!

Months ago I kept thinking to myself I need to have a way to share all the kids books I read and love. Caleb and I read a ton of books. (Just ask my family....I'm odd about this and checking out our limit of books at the library so we'll have a selection throughout the week till it's library time again. Of course sometimes Caleb gets his favorite two or three, and we read them repeatedly through the week, which is fine as well.)

So I made a new blog where I have been only reviewing children's literature. It was first going to be only books published in the past couple of years, but there are "older books" in there too. I don't post everyday there because I just don't have that kind of time. (Actually what I usually do is get a few that I want to share and type all the reviews at the same time and set them to post on different days.)

My hope is that this can be a good resource for parents, grandparents, or teachers who are looking for good books to read with their children.


If you are a parent or love kids or just love children's literature, please visit my new blog:

Have you read with your child today?

Thank you for checking it out! Have a wonderful day!
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"The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life." ~ John 10:10, NLT

2009 Book # 17: A Claim of Her Own by Stephanie Grace Whitson

I have finished reading A Claim of her Own by Stephanie Grace Whitson. This is my first book to read by this author.

Mattie O'Keefe is ready to start a new life in Deadwood, South Dakota where she goes looking for her brother and his mining camp after she escaped from her mean boss and life singing in a gambling hall. She arrives to find her brother is dead. She must decided if she wants work as a miner in a man's world but doesn't really have anywhere else to go. Even though she tries to hide the secrets of her past, she develops friendships with several residents of Deadwood and comes to appreciate the feeling of belonging. One of her new friends is the preacher, Aron Gallagher. She has trouble trusting him and believing the lessons he tries to teach because all the preachers she's known in the past live a different life on Monday than they do on Sunday. Mattie's struggles and doubts are real and the reader will be able to relate to the questions she asks about God. Just as she is learning to trust, something from her past shows up in Deadwood. Will Mattie believe that God can help her?

I enjoyed this book of historical fiction and look forward to reading more from this author. The well-developed characters and setting were appealing and believable. I really appreciated how she started each chapter with a verse.

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"Give thanks unto the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people. Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him, talk ye of all his wondrous works." I Chronicles 16:8-9

As long as it is called Today: Christian home keepers (April)

Welcome to "As long as it is called Today." Our focus on the fourth week of the month is to encourage one another as Christian home keepers. I hope you will join me each week on Tuesdays as we encourage each other in our daily lives as Christians, spouses, parents, and home keepers.

You can read the answers to last week's question here. Thank you for sharing your ideas on kids and chores!

Today's question: Share any tips you have on organizing your closet.

My answer: I like the little gizmo (have no idea what it is called, I looked it up and found this which is similar to what I'm talking about) that has several holes where you can hang several hangers at once. Then they hang in layers and take up less space. We've had a few of these in our closet for years, and it does seem to save space.

Be sure to leave your answer in the comments and check back next week for a new month of questions! Thank you for participating!

2009 Book #16: The Noticer by Andy Andrews

Have you ever read a book that you really wanted to share with others because the message touched your heart? That is how I feel about the latest book from Thomas Nelson Publishers called The Noticer by Andy Andrews. This ten chapter book will grab the attention of the reader from the beginning and hold it until the last page.

The story is written from the perspective of a younger Andy and is about his encounter with a man named Jones. Jones comes into Andy’s life unexpectedly at a time when he needs him the most. It is a life-changing meeting actually. Andy continues to tell the stories of other people who encountered Jones and how he helped change their perspective.

I absolutely loved this book and would recommend it for everyone. There is a story and lesson here for everyone at any stage of life, old or young, married or single, male or female. The reader will be able to relate to the characters in the book. It teaches a valuable lesson about the importance of perspective when dealing with problems in life. This book would make a great gift for your personal library as well as a great gift for a family member or friend.

Proverbs & Prayers: Week #17

I have enjoyed having a new Proverb to think about and memorize each week. Last week's verse was no exception. How many times would relationships be saved if people would be wise and hold their tongues? There are many verse in the Bible about the tongue. It was very fitting this week to see the post my friend Pamela at Country Roads shared about taming the tongue. Be sure to check that out.

This week's verse is Proverbs 11:16:

"A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth."

Do you have prayer requests you'd like to share this week? Here are some prayer requests:

~ Chris (Marsha/Michele's step-dad).

~ Lesly.

~ my hubby as he travels.

~ a good refreshing weekend for us next weekend as we go to San Antonio.

I have two book reviews to share with you this week as well as a new blog I've started. Have a great Sunday!

Go Mad Dawgs!

Today was Caleb's first t-ball game! Caleb came to our bed this morning and said, "today is my game Mommy!" He was so excited to eat breakfast and hurry to put on his orange jersey as he calls it. After that he was thrilled to see a little green car pull up which meant Gramma had arrived.

The game was such fun, and we all had many laughs. Most of these kids had never played an actual game. After our practices I thought our boys were doing good, but I didn't really know what to expect except that it would be funny to see what they did with another team on the field with them. We had kids who would hit the ball and just stand there until the umpire told them to go ahead and run! We had kids who couldn't get to first base because the other team was in the way getting the ball so they ran straight from hitting to second base! We had one little boy on the other team who was carried up for his turn at bat and he didn't want to hit so went back to the dugout!

Caleb is playing right now in the outfield. He told us last night he wanted to play on one of the bases. We gave him a little speech that he was doing a good job in the outfield and if he wasn't there to stop those balls then D would have to go all the way out there to get them. Today he was so proud to get one of the balls and throw it in. He did a good job hitting the ball too. He got a hit both his times at bat. The first one he got out at first, and the next one he got to the base and then got home by another boy.

At the end of the game when the coach was talking to him it made me smile because the first thing out of his mouth was "okay did you all have fun?" That is so important. When we signed up, I didn't know if the coaches or parents would be too serious about the game. Thankfully that hasn't been the case. It's all been very encouraging and fun. I've really liked our coaches, and it has been a great experience for us.

The first game was so much fun. I look forward to more fun games! Go Mad Dawgs!
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"Bless the Lord, O you his angels, you might ones who do his bidding...Bless the Lord, all his works, in all places of his dominion. Bless the Lord, O my soul." Psalm 103:20, 22

Another surprise!

Look at this cute little Precious Moments figurine (the boy holding the football) Caleb and I received as a surprise today from a blogging friend. It is called "I'm a Possibility." Thank you! This was such a surprise!

Question

Where do you get your pictures/graphics for your blogs that you don't take yourself? Thank you!
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"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands." Psalm 19:1

Thankful Thursday: Provision

Thankful Thursday is hosted by Laurie today. Join us!

The theme for today is provision. We serve Jehovah Jireh--our provider. All through the Bible we read of God providing for his people: He provided the sacrifice for Abraham so he didn't have to sacrifice his son Isaac (Genesis 22). He provided just enough manna and quail for the Israelite people (Exodus 16). He provided a great fish to swallow Jonah to teach him a lesson (Jonah 1:17). The Bible even talks about how God provides food for the animals (Job 38:41, Psalm 147:9). He provided His only son as a sacrifice for our sins (John 3:16).


Thinking about provision I remembered a story from my teenage years. It was around the holidays, I don't remember if it was Thanksgiving or Christmas. My Mom was making fruit salad. As she was making it she said she wished she had a banana to go in it. She'd forgotten to get one when she bought the other fruit. Later that evening we had a knock on the door. It was a couple of my guys who were my classmates. It was very strange for them to show up at our doorstep and very unexpected. They were making fruit baskets and brought us one. Guess what it had in it...a banana! I like remembering this story of a simple thing like a banana and the way God used a fruit basket delivery to provide that!


What has God provided in your life? I'm thankful for all God has provided for me...my sweet husband and son, our home, food, clothes, bed, on and on the list could go. So many things we take for granted, but we can see over and over that he is our Provider.

Thank you for visiting today! Have a great Thursday!
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"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." I Thessalonians 5:18

As long as it is called Today: Christian parents (April)

Welcome to "As long as it is called Today." Our focus on the third week of the month is to encourage one another as Christian parents. I hope you will join me each week on Tuesdays as we encourage each other in our daily lives as Christians, spouses, parents, and home keepers.

We had some good answers to last week's question. It really blessed me to read your thoughts and ideas about Bible study with your spouse. Go check out every one's answers and ideas.


Today's question: Share your tips and ideas about children and chores. This can be things you have done, plan to do, or that your parents did with you.

My answer: With Caleb we've had a chore chart with three chores per day. He gets a sticker on the chart for doing that chore. At the end of the week he gets a dollar if he has x amount of stickers. We did this for a while and have slacked off, I need to get back on it.

Dave Ramsey has an interesting concept about chores/allowance that I think fits with this concept today. His idea is "you don't work, you don't get paid." He said some parents say you shouldn't pay your children for doing things to help the family. Dave says you don't pay them for every item they do. You teach them some things you just do to be helpful (like everyone takes their dinner plates to the sink after eating to help out Mom). But other things you give them their requirements and how much you will pay them for completing those tasks. It is more of a real-world scenario than just giving a child an allowance every week "just because" because if you don't do your job someday then you aren't going to get paid for it.

I was going to type what I did for chores as a child but I won't and let my Mom do that if she wants. :)

I look forward to reading your answers! Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Song: "He Is With You"

Mandisa sang this song at the Women of Faith conference. I loved in so much, and it was really what made me want to buy her new CD, "Freedom." I hope this song blesses you.



I believe people will be able to relate to this song. Everyone is going through something that people on the outside may never see. Whatever that is though, He really is with each of us.

When I listened to it after buying the CD, it made me think of our time with Mammaw in her final days with us. As I've listened to it more and more, I've thought of other families that God is with right now.

He is with Stellan and his family in Boston.

He is with the Baldry and Everedge families who've said goodbye to their baby boys.

He is with Christy as she waits for her hubby to come home.

He is with Lesly as she goes through chemo...again.

He is with Jay and Lauren.

He is with the daughter caring for her sick mother.

He is with the husband who feels overloaded with pressures from work.

He is with the couple dealing with infertility.

He is with the girl who feels she'll never find her special someone.

He is with YOU.

HE is with you.

He is with you.
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"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6

Proverbs & Prayers: Week #16

As I was talking about the verse from week #15 with Caleb, it made me think about the word "commands." Who gives me commands? Am I very good at accepting commands? This is a concept we work to teach our children. Do we follow this ourselves? Do we accept the rules and laws of the land or do we try to argue about them? Do we do what God asks us to do or do we make excuses why we can't? Just some thoughts I had regarding last week's verse.


This week's verse is Proverbs 10:19 (another really good one I think):

"When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise."


Do you have any prayer requests for this week? I will be praying for...


~ Heather as she continues to recover.

~ Marsha's husband.


~ Lesly. She starts chemo this week.


~ new baby Jackson. He's having some breathing issues.

Thanks for stopping by today. Hope your Sunday is wonderfully blessed!

You're Gonna Miss This......Moment #4

Friday was full of fun moments with me and my boy. I like to get most of the chores and housework done earlier in the week so I have less to do on Fridays. Friday morning started out cloudy and rainy so it was the perfect day to be lazy in our pajamas. Caleb was watching a video and I warned him that we might lose electricity but if that happens we'll start the video again later. He looked at me one time and said, "Um, is it still daytime?" It got really really dark right before it poured rain. His comment made me laugh how he said it so innocently! He got his flashlight and got on the couch with me to read books. Later he wanted me to be a dog so I made doggy noises and he had to take me to the vet. He covered me with a blanket and gave me a pillow and curled up beside me. I said, "Do you like curling up by a doggy?" At that moment I was thinking it is just a couple more weeks till we sign him up for kindergarten. I emailed my Mom to tell her what we'd been doing and she said it made her think "You're gonna miss this." Oh yes, that is what I was thinking.
Click here for other moments!
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"Ask the LORD for rain in the springtime; it is the LORD who makes the storm clouds. He gives showers of rain to men, and plants of the field to everyone." Zechariah 10:1

Mommy encouragement!

Have you ever felt alone as a mom? Lost in your chosen field of mothering?

There is an organization that was created to encourage, educate and equip women in the profession of motherhood. Hearts at Home helps thousands of moms love their lives through their many resources including conferences, website, and books.

Recently I partnered up with this organization as a blogger. Over time I hope to share with you the many resources this ministry has to offer (old ones and new). To learn more about the Hearts at Home Blogging team go here.

In the meantime I would like to encourage you to explore their website and blog for an immediate dose of mothering encouragement.

I have been encouraged by this resource and hope you will find encouragement as a Mother also. Hope your weekend is fabulous!

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"Be exalted, O LORD, in your strength; we will sing and praise your might." Psalm 21:13

2009 Book #15: The Brethren

I finished The Brethren which is book #3 in the "Annie's People" series by Beverly Lewis. I read book #1 (The Preacher's Daughter) and book #2 (The Englisher) in 2008.

Annie Zook, who is the daughter of Preacher Jesse Zook, lives in Paradise, Pennsylvania. Due to a promise to her father to abandon her art, she goes to live with her friend, Esther, who is shunned by the people. Her former "fancy" beau Ben Martin comes back to town from Kentucky where he went after Annie sent him away when her father found out about their courtship. The brethren have another issue in Zeke, Esther's husband. He confesses to killing his little brother years ago. After the discovery that the bones aren't even actually his brothers, Zeke receives medical attention to help him work through all his issues.

This is a story of hope, change, and possibilities. I have always enjoyed books by Beverly Lewis and this is no exception.

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One of the theme verses of the book:
"With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26

Thankful Thursday: I am God's daughter!

Thank you to Laurie for hosting TT today! She has chosen "I am God's daughter" for this week's theme.

I had to smile when I saw the theme. This is something that I've been pondering a lot lately. This idea was mentioned at the Women of Faith conference and has just been on my heart.

I've seen the tshirts, key chains, and bumper stickers with quotes about being a princess. I never had any such merchandise, and I always find myself wondering or being judgemental of the person because I didn't know the person's heart or attitude. I'd always viewed those sayings as the person having the attitude of "I'm a princess, give me what I deserve." But I've realized lately that isn't always the case. I've been thinking what it means to be a princess because really that is what we are to our Heavenly Father. Maybe some people have that attitude I perceive in my head of "serve me because I'm a princess" but maybe the person just knows that she is a princess to her Heavenly Father. This is how I want to see fellow women that I encounter...to realize that they are princesses no matter what they look like or how they seem to my eyes.

It is a beautiful thing to know Who your Father is and know you are His princess. I am thankful that I am His princess.

Other things I'm thankful for this week:
~ my sweet husband and his continuous love. He makes me feel loved and cherished and that I am his princess.

~ my sweet son and his sweet songs. This week he was making up new "sentences" he called them for the song "I Am Blessed." It made me smile.

~ being with family and making fun memories together.

~ finding a hotel for a good price for our upcoming trip to Sea World. This made me happy this morning and excited about the trip!

Have a blessed day! I am thankful for you also.
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"Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me." Isaiah 49:15, 16

Are you enjoying today?

Do you or your children enjoy the Berenstain Bears? Caleb got a "Berenstain Bears" movie for Easter. Lately he always wants to choose one (or two!) Bear books from the library every week, and I thought he'd enjoy a video. I got him one called "Fun Family Adventures." The new video has six different stories. He watched a couple more today. One is called "Bears for all Seasons." I was listening with him as I fixed up supper in the kitchen. I really loved the message of the cartoon and wanted to share it today.

The Bears didn't think they had anything to do one day but learned that really wasn't the case after they had a great day swimming. They wanted to swim the next day, but it turned cooler. After that they wanted to enjoy a nice fall hay ride together, but the next morning snow covered the ground. They enjoyed the day of snow and planned to go skiing as a family the next morning, but all the snow was gone so they spent the day indoors together.

Mama Bear gave the cubs some wise advice in the beginning when they were disappointed they couldn't go swimming again. I tried to write it down as she said it and think I got it right. She said-- "Instead of wasting today wishing it was yesterday, go out and enjoy all today has to offer."

I thought this was such great advice. How many times do we get up in the morning and have grand plans for the day and then something happens to mess up our plans causing us to get upset because things didn't happen as we'd hoped? Either the weather is different than we expected or a child is sick or the keys are lost or the car won't start or some unexpected event comes up. Instead of wasting away the day pouting and with a bad attitude because we can't do what we wanted to originally do, we need to find the good God has given us in THIS day. Every day He gives is a blessing and we need to enjoy what each day has to offer.

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"This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

As long as it is called Today: Christian wives/husbands (April)

Welcome to "As long as it is called Today." Our focus on the second week of the month is to encourage one another as Christian wives/husbands. I hope you will join me each week on Friday as we encourage each other in our daily lives as Christians, spouses, parents, and home keepers.

Thank you to everyone who participated last week. Click here to read the answers posted last Tuesday and throughout the week.

Today's question: Do you and your spouse study or read the Bible together? When? How often? What tips do you have for making this a part of your regular routine?

My answer: When we do read together it is before we go to bed. I also like asking him questions from my reading because he is good at explaining things to me.

I am really looking forward to your answers because this is an area we need to work to improve in our marriage. Leave your answer in the comment section. Have a wonderful day!

Introducing Fire Bear John

On our trip to Louisiana for Women of Faith, Caleb and Gramma went to Build a Bear Workshop. I'd never been to one before. My Mom decided it was pretty much a "Gramma" store!

Caleb picked out a bear and had fun stuffing it. He knew immediately he wanted a fire fighter outfit for the bear. He named him Fire Bear John (Caleb's first name is John). The rest of the evening and weekend he had such fun carrying around the bear and taking the fire suit on and off. One the way home Gramma started crocheting a shirt for Fire Bear John. Then Caleb said he needs pants so Gramma made the pants right quick too.

This weekend she visited for Easter and had brought another suit she'd made and one she'd bought at a consignment shop for Fire Bear John. Caleb likes changing the outfits! Here is a picture Caleb took of John in his new green suit. I told him I was posting it to my blog!
I told my Mom she should make these clothes to sell! She is really talented!
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"I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing." Ezekiel 34:26

Proverbs & Prayers: Week #15

The memory verse for this week is

Proverbs 10:8
"The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin."

Do you have any prayer requests this week? Please let me know if I can pray for you. Please remember these in your prayers:

~Lesly. She had surgery this week and the Hodgkins is back. I don't have any other details right now.

~Continue to pray for Stellan and his family.

I'll add more to the side bar as I hear about them. Have a great week!

Song "In Christ Alone"

I was so glad to find this song to share today. I was reminded of it because we sang it at Women of Faith.

This weekend we are remembering Christ's death on the Cross and that glorious resurrection morning. As the song says ("Here in the death of Christ I live") because of His death, I can live and also because of His sacrifice "Sin's curse has lost its grip on me." We have the greatest reason ever to be thankful and rejoice. Christ conquered death and rose from the grave. We can put our hope in Him.

I pray you are blessed today. Thank you for stopping by. Visit Spirtual Sundays to read encouraging posts.
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"As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.
'Don't be alarmed,' he said. 'You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him.' " Mark 16:5, 6

Giveaway winner!

Congratulations to Sister Sheri who is the winner of the giveaway for the book Real Moms...Real Jesus by Jill Savage. Thank you to those who participated! Have a great Saturday!

My sweet husband!

I meant to originally include this in my Thankful Thursday yesterday but forgot and this really deserves it's own post anyway. ;)

Last Thursday I heard a knock at the door. Caleb said it was the UPS man. I was surprised because I couldn't think what delivery I had coming. The white envelope had my name with a return address of JA. I opened to find a small pink box with this inside. It is the August birthstone (peridot). It is so simple and beautiful! You can stack them to wear side-by-side or wear them one at a time. My cousin has this ring so that is where I got the idea.

Also there was a card from my husband that said "Just because I love you."

Isn't that sweet! We looked at the remembrance rings when we went on a trip since we don't have a store here. He worked with my Mom to figure out my ring size for sure and then ordered it to surprise me last week.

It makes me smile to see it on my hand. Thank you sweetie! You are the best!
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"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God." I John 4:7

fPhoto Friday

Happy Easter weekend to you! This is another picture taken by my Mom. It is a tulip. Visit Married to the Preacher for other pictures today.

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"May you be blessed by the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 115:15

Thankful Thursday: Sacrifice

I took Caleb to see a local production of an Easter pageant. I went to this same production when I was teaching at a Christian school. Knowing what he knows of the story of Jesus I thought he was old enough to understand the play. He loved the part with the donkey and palm branches. He is a sensitive boy, and I didn't know how he'd respond to the crucifixion scene. It isn't anything too graphic really but I could tell when the soldiers came out and pushed down the Jesus character it was upsetting to him and he couldn't watch. He held on to my neck, giving me a hug, during the rest of the scene. I told him that was okay for it to make him sad. It is a sad thing that happened and to think about Jesus going through that hurts our hearts. As we watched the rest of the play, we clapped and Caleb had a precious smile on his face as he saw the angel that came at the site of the tomb when Jesus was no longer there.

Watching this play and sharing it with Caleb, trying to see it through his eyes, gave me a new appreciation for that sacrifice. Jesus so didn't have to go through what He went through. He knew what the people were going to do to Him. Yet He still came. That is what is so beautiful to me. He came and He gave. He is our ultimate sacrifice. I'm so thankful to be reminded of this sacrifice as we celebrate Easter.

Other things I"m thankful for this week:
~ my husband's elbow being okay. He had a fall last weekend and Caleb's Easter party at the park. He noticed a swollen elbow Monday evening. We went to the dr. on Tuesday. It is okay just full of fluid. The dr. gave him a wrap and we're waiting for it to go down.

~ watching Caleb at tball practice.

~ fun happy mail! It brightens my day to get a card or letter in the mail.

~ books. I'm having such fun with the book reviews I've been doing.

Have a wonderful Easter weekend! God bless you! Join us for other Thankful Thursday posts this week at Women Taking a Stand.

******* Visit here for my book giveaway!********
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"He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay." Matthew 28:6

2009 Book #14: Financial Peace Revisited

I finished Financial Peace Revisited by Dave Ramsey that I've been reading along with our FPU classes. We have one more week of class left.

I enjoyed reading this book along with the videos we watched for class. It is very easy to read and is a good review of things Dave talks about in the videos. He has things called "Peace Puppies" at the end of each chapter that are little tips of what to do as you move towards financial peace. The back of the book has the various financial management forms you will need also. There is really something for everyone in the book, whether you are married or single, working or retired. We can all learn more about managing our finances, and this is a great resource.
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"People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 11But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness." I Timothy 6:9-11

Announcing a Book Giveaway!

I recently posted an interview with Jill Savage about her new book Real Moms...Real Jesus. Well guess what? I am giving away a copy of the book. If you would like a chance to win, please leave me a comment to this post.

I have already started reading my copy of the book. It is WONDERFUL! Jill Savage is very encouraging to Mom's. You will be able to join us in a book discussion on Tuesday's as well over at Jill's blog. I'm excited to give this book to one of my reader Mom friends.

This giveaway is open to US addresses. Sign up will end Friday, April 10 at 5 p.m. Centraland I will draw a winner at that time. I will try to announce the winner Friday.

Thanks for being a fan!

Did you know that April has been named Tell 'Em Your A Fan Month? It was news to me also! I have been fanned by Debra and my new blog friend Alleluiabelle. And apparently there are rules to follow...hopefully, I can get these right.



1. Leave a comment for your favorite blogger telling them that you are a fan of their site.
2. Feel free to copy and paste the award when it is awarded to you.
3. When you receive more than 1 fan, put the number you have received under the image.
4. The more fans you receive the better!


Thank you for being a fan! Now I'm off to "fan" some friends!
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"Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs." Psalm 100:2

As long as it is called Today: Christian women/men (April)

Welcome to a new month of As long as it is called Today after a break during the month of March. Our focus on the first week of the month is to encourage one another as Christian women/men. I hope you will join me each week on Friday as we encourage each other in our daily lives as Christians, spouses, parents, and home keepers.

Today's question: Do you have a special verse that is your life verse? Share that verse.

My answer: My life verse has always been Matthew 5:16--"Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."

Thank you for joining us today! Please leave your answer in the comment section and come back next week for a new question and to read the answers left by others.

Have a wonderful day!

Marriage Monday: Friendship in Christian Marriage

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Our topic is "Friendship in Christian Marriage." Sharpen your pencil and tell us how you and your husband celebrate your friendship together. Join us for Marriage Monday by visiting Chrysalis.

Thinking back to before our dating days, I remember that we were friends first. We had meals together and played card games in the dorm lobby till curfew on weekends with our group of friends. Then we started taking walks, just the two of us. It made me feel special because he felt comfortable talking and sharing about his life, work, and special memories of his grandfather. That is where our relationship started. I loved these talks and walks around campus. Through the years our friendship has grown. It is fun to be together and have my husband be my best friend.

I asked my husband if he had any thoughts on friendship in marriage. He said the same thing I had already typed....that we were friends first, how important that was, and how he enjoys the friendship we have now.
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"How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you." Psalm 31:19

Thought-provoking study...2009 Book #13: Faith and Pop Culture

Thomas Nelson has a new study in the Christianity Today Study Series called Faith and Pop Culture. Eight lessons are included regarding a variety of cultural issues such as art, television, literature, violence, sports, and movies.

As Christians we may often ask ourselves how we are to respond to our culture where we are constantly surrounded with all sorts of entertainment. This is a question I’ve pondered myself as I see others around me involved with entertainment not centered on Christian values. Is it okay to watch the latest movie or read the newest book just because it’s the rage of everyone around us? Where do we draw the line? What is acceptable entertainment for Christians? The study also discusses Christians in Hollywood and what things they should do to be lights to others in their world. Many thought-provoking questions are discussed.

This is an excellent study to do with a small group. I liked the easy-to-follow format of the study. Each lesson has a brief introduction followed by an article on the topic. Then there are questions to discuss together. I enjoyed reading the articles and scripture passages and then asking myself the questions. It would be interesting to hear others’ feedback and opinions regarding these topics. This seems to be a good value for the money as well.

Proverbs & Prayers: Week #14

The memory verse last week had us talking about wisdom and rubies. What things do I desire besides wisdom? Caleb and I talked about what it means to be wise. It is a hard concept to explain to a four year old, but we tried through something that happened this week that showed Daddy used wisdom to solve a problem. He didn't know what a ruby was either so I showed him that in a James Avery catalog.

This week's memory verse is Proverbs 8:32--

"Now then, my sons, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways."

Do you have any prayer requests for the upcoming week?

I continue to pray for Stellan and his family as well as Sage's family that were mentioned last week. Lesly (also mentioned last week) is having surgery this week to remove the enlarged lymph node.

Have a wonderful week!

Song: Voice of a Savior

What a privilege to hear Mandisa sing and share her heart at the Women of Faith conference! I was not familiar with many of her songs. This is one she sang Saturday afternoon that blessed me and I wanted to share on my blog. You can watch the clip or read the lyrics here.

Every person has the same basic needs. We all want to be accepted and loved. If you don't have that, you feel like something is missing in your life. Where are you looking to have your needs met? When you look to people or money or power or things to meet those needs, you are going to continue to be empty, searching, and longing for more. I've heard it said that everyone has a God-shaped hole in their hearts. I've heard of people doing some interesting things trying to fill that hole, fill that void. But nothing works. It isn't things or money or relationships or power that will fill that hole. None of those things will save you. Seek the Lord and let His love fill all your holes. Let Him be your Savior.

Visit here to join others for Spiritual Sundays. Have a wonderful weekend!
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"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. " Matthew 11:28

What is your song?

It was a blessing to hear Sandi Patty sing as well as share from her heart at Women of Faith.

One thing she spoke about keeps playing over and over in my head. She talked about the role music has always played in her life. As a child it was something that brought her attention and made people like her. Eventually she realizes she lost her song though. She continued to share about a scientist, Dr. David Deamer, and his research with DNA. She compared the DNA to a slinky. The waves of the DNA strand make music. My simple brain doesn't understand it, and I'm probably not even explaining it clearly for that matter. But I do know that every person has a different, unique DNA strand. So that means each one of us have DNA that is a different song. Isn't that wonderful! We aren't all the same, and God never intended for us to be like everyone around us. (In trying to figure out how to put this into words, I found a site that has examples of DNA music. Interesting!)

What is your song? Are you proud of that song that is you, or are you trying to copy someone else's song because you think they sound better? You are special. God made you for this time and place for a reason. You have been put here on purpose. Do you realize there is no one else like you and no one else can do the role you are doing? You may feel insignificant or feel that your song doesn't matter. God gave you your talents and abilities to use for Him to fulfill a purpose. Have you lost your song? Have you been hurt and aren't even sure what your song is? God can renew you and help you find the song He gave you again. Are you sharing your song with others? The song you've been given needs to be shared. The people in your lives may be able to hear and receive your song when others have been unable to reach them. Live your life in such a way that others can hear the song God gave you.
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"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14

Thankful Thursday: Hope

For April our host for Thankful Thursday is Laurie at Women Taking a Stand if you want to join us. She has chosen hope for the theme this week.

One definition of hope at Dictionary.com is:
to look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence.

A passage I enjoy on hope in the Bible is Romans 8:18-25--
18I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 19The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. 20For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.
22We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.

What are you hoping for right now? A job? A better financial situation? New friends? A good grade on a big exam? Children to fill your home? Good health? To be debt free? A promotion? Spring? We can long for so many different things everyday, big and small. Any of these things may or may not happen for you. Even if everything in your world goes wrong or is falling apart right this moment, you can still have hope. That hope is the eternal life offered by Christ. He is our hope. The world seems to be crazy and getting more crazy all the time. He is our hope. When we have Him as our Savior, we know that one day we will be with Him in Heaven. He is our hope.

Other things I've been thankful for this week:
~ my understanding, loving husband. He is just so wonderful! I love him so much!

~ my cute boy starting t-ball practice and having fun with that. It was great to watch him practice earlier this week.

~ spring time.

~ the fun time we had at the Women of Faith conference last weekend.

~ God's Word and learning from it.

Have a wonderful day! I hope your day is blessed!! Thank you for visiting. Tomorrow I will be sharing some more about Women of Faith.
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"But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently." Romans 8:25

Take a breath Bethany!

I remembered to check online to see if the calendar for the upcoming school year was approved at the last board meeting. It was....August 24 is the date my boy will go to Kindergarten. It gives me a weird feeling to think about....very mixed emotions for sure! I guess I'll now have a "kindergarten" label for my posts!! I called a couple weeks ago and found out the registrations will be the beginning of May. I showed Caleb and he hugged me and wanted me to tell him what the color-coded days meant so we found which days he'll be off for holidays.
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"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing." Philippians 2:14-16