my life...in the midst of chaos

Growing Grateful Kids

2010-04-18T22:27:00.000-05:00

Growing Grateful Kids

Notes from the Hearts at Home 2010 Session

with Susie Larson

We cannot impart what we do not possess. ie: you cannot teach your children thankfulness if you are not thankful yourself.

Lessons are more often caught than taught.

Ways to Teach Thankfulness

1) Model Thankfulness: 1 Thes 5:18 "...give thanks in ALL circumstances". Don't wait for life to get better before you are thankful.

Practical Application: Refuse worry - God will come through!

Spend time with God

Let your children HEAR you being thankful to God.

2) Practice Restraint: Just because it's there doesn't mean we need it.

Partial fast - if something is getting too important in your life, take a break from it. When you get it back, it will inspire fresh gratitude.

Say "no" to yourself and deal with it.

Prov. 25:28 "Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control" If you don't have self-control, it allows the enemy to get in.

What can you give up for a week and have more time to spend with God?

3) Take Time To Play: Playing shows your children that you have faith that God can handle the things you're struggling with. If we're too busy, our kids will think they're unimportant.

Take time with your girlfriends

Ditch laundry and take the kids to the park

4) Teach Forgiveness: Forgiveness is not an occasional act, it's a permanent attitude.

Own your offense, humbly respond (make retribution), and ask / accept forgiveness.

Psalm 139 - Pray for God to find where you need to ask for forgiveness.

Forgive and then LET GO.

Daily receive fresh mercies - God knows you'll make mistakes.

When you blow it, use yourself as an example. Tell them how you should have handled it, ask for forgiveness ,and then teach them how to pray to God for forgiveness.

Even if you mess up, God has made a way for you. It's okay. Your identity is not tied in with the choices your children make. Your choices define you, but they effect your entire family.

Psalm 32:1-2 "Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the LORD does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit." Actively teach them what forgiveness looks like.

5) Give a Blessing: Share what God has shown you, what you want Him to show you, and what you've learned.

Speak truth and life into your kids. Our children are like blank canvases, they don't know who they are - they only know what we tell them.

If you're unsure of who your child is, pray this: Lord, show me who my child is and give them a heart for it.

Always separate what your child does from who they are. She is not a bad girl or stupid girl, what she did was bad or stupid. Never let you child walk away with a closed spirit.

Tell the truth in love to your children. Be sure to confront laziness or below-standard efforts. You're not doing your child any favors by only telling them they're perfect at everything.

Measure your words - words have power!

Ephesians 2:10 "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Remind yourself that God loves you

Bless others - look for the good and tell them

Tell your child how much you love them and things you see good in their lives.

Am I Doing This Right?

2010-04-06T10:19:00.001-05:00

Am I Doing This Right

Notes from the Hearts at Home 2010 Session

with Sharon Autry and Laurie Hillard (momandlovingit.org)

Proverbs 22:6 - Train up a child in the way he should go

train - aim at a goal or objective - decide what we want the end to look like so we know what to do now.

In America, we spend lots of time on the mind (school & tutors) and the body (sports at early ages), but what's most important to you?

What are three things you want your children to be known for when they're grown up? (List your own)

1) Strong relationship with Christ (faithful)

2) Respectful

3) Generous (helpful) with everything - time, talents, money

The HEART is most important to God

My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words.

Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart;
for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body.
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.

Prov. 4:20-23

But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."

1 Sam. 16:7

Shouldn't your child's heart be most important to you too?

How do we reach the heart?

These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

Deut. 6:6-7

Rules without a relationship = rebellion

Kids don't care how much we know until they know how much we care.

Communicate Along The Way

Written notes, journal with your kids (http://www.momandlovingit.org/MeMs/MeM_2009-10w.html), e-mail or text if you have to because you need to be in THEIR world. Be creative and think outside of the box.

Laugh Along The Way - Lighten up!

Smile more - it's healthy for you and your home. Even say "no" with a smile.

Be a "yes" mom whenever you can

Dream with them

Do a "Pajama Run" (wake the kids up after you've put them to bed and go out to get ice cream)

Sometimes you just need to scream

Read books together

Sometimes you need to get on their level

Cook together

Be Patient Along The Way

Kids know if you're really listening

Don't see the stuff that bothers you - Lord, give me your eyes to see them as you do.

Find out your child's love language - touch and affection, encouragement, gifts, acts of service, or quality time - and make an effort to use it.

What you say about your children in front of someone else is what they'll remember.

Introduce your child in a positive way

Your children are more important and precious than a broken plate or spilled drink.

Pray Along The Way

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. Colossians 1:9

Pray about their fears with them, even the monsters under their beds. Pray daily and consistently!
Praying Daily for your Children Calendar - http://www.momandlovingit.org/MeMs/MeM_2009-10w.html

6 P's to Pray for your Children

Passion for God

For them to know their Purpose in life

That they would have good Peers that they hang around with

Future Partner

Purity

Praise - that they'll learn how to be grateful to God in all circumstances

Practice Along The Way

Spiritual Applications - use life illustrations to share Christ with your children.

Scripture Memory - Dry erase on mirrors

Scripture Songs - Hide 'Em In Your Heart - songs that sing the scripture.

Model It

Life and love today, because we only have these days!

Fruit Salsa

2010-04-05T15:37:00.002-05:00

Ingredients

2 kiwis, peeled and diced
2 Golden Delicious apples - peeled, cored and diced
8 ounces raspberries
1 pound strawberries
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
3 tablespoons fruit preserves, any flavor
10 (10 inch) flour tortillas
butter flavored cooking spray
2 cups cinnamon sugar

Directions

In a large bowl, thoroughly mix kiwis, Golden Delicious apples, raspberries, strawberries, white sugar, brown sugar and fruit preserves. Cover and chill in the refrigerator at least 15 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Coat one side of each flour tortilla with butter flavored cooking spray. Cut into wedges and arrange in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle wedges with desired amount of cinnamon sugar. Spray again with cooking spray.
Bake in the preheated oven 8 to 10 minutes. Repeat with any remaining tortilla wedges. Allow to cool approximately 15 minutes. Serve with chilled fruit mixture.

Shepherd's Pie Stuffed Potatoes

2010-03-01T09:35:00.002-06:00

Ingredients
* 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
* 3 tablespoons EVOO – Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided, plus additional for drizzling
* Salt
* 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
* 1 medium onion, chopped, divided
* Black pepper
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
* 1 cup smoked shredded Gouda cheese
* 1 pound ground sirloin
* 1 can mixed veggies (you can use fresh or frozen too)
* 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 tablespoons flour
* 1 1/2 cups beef stock
* 2 tablespoons spicy brown or Dijon mustard
* 4 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Yields: 4 servings

Preparation

Preheat oven to 400ºF.

On a baking sheet, toss potatoes with a hearty drizzle of EVOO and some salt. Bake in oven until tender, about 1 hour. Let cool. Turn off oven and switch on the broiler.

While the potatoes are cooling, place a medium skillet over medium-high heat with 1 turn of the pan of EVOO, about 1 tablespoon. Add the bell pepper and half of the onion to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the veggies are tender, 5 minutes. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl.

When the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut a thin slice lengthwise off of the top to expose the inside. Scoop out the potato flesh, taking care not to pierce the wall of the potato, and transfer to the bowl with the veggies (reserve the potato shells). Add the sour cream and paprika, and mash. Reserve warm.

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat with 2 turns of the pan of EVOO, about 2 tablespoons. Add the ground sirloin to the pan and cook until golden brown, 5-6 minutes.

Add the remaining onion and garlic to the pan and cook until all the veggies are tender, about 5 minutes more. Push all of the ingredients to the edge of the pan and add the butter to the skillet. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute. Add the stock, mustard, Worcestershire, some salt and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring up to a bubble and simmer until thickened, 2-3 minutes.

Fill the potato shells with the beef mixture then top each of them with the reserved mashed potatoes. Transfer to a baking sheet and sprinkle with the cheese. Pop the potatoes under the broiler until the cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.

H.O.I.S.D.A. Spaghetti Dinner

2010-02-08T09:13:00.004-06:00

Sunday, March 7, 2010
11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

ITOO Hall
4909 W. Farmington Rd., Peoria, IL
Take out orders available

Come on out Sunday, March 7th (11am-6pm) for the 21st Annual HOIDSA Spaghetti Dinner at the Itoo Hall on Farmington Road!

Kaylee's Krew will be working the Dinner from
1pm until 3:30pm, so come see us!

(...and no, we are not the entertainment!)

$7/ages 13-adult
$4/child 4-12yrs
Free/ages 3 and under

Take out orders available.

Invite your friends and family to come!

(If you'd like to donate a baked good for the Bake Sale, let us know! All donations are greatly appreciated!)

View Larger Map

Dinner provided by LaGONDOLA SPAGHETTI HOUSE of Decatur

Raffle • Bake Sale • Entertainment

(Click to view flier larger)

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

2009-11-19T20:05:00.001-06:00

Ingredients:
1/2 Cup Butter
12 Tablespoons Cocoa*
4 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil*
2 Cups Flour
2 Teaspoons Baking Powder
1/2 Teaspoons Salt
2 Cups Sugar
4 Large Eggs
1 1/2 Teaspoons Vanilla
Powdered Sugar
*or 4 Squares of Unsweetened Chocolate

Instructions:
Melt butter, then add cocoa and oil until smooth
Beat chocolate mixture and granulated sugar until combined
Add eggs and beat well
Mix in vanilla
Mix in flour, baking powder and salt and beat until just combined
Refrigerate dough until very firm, at least 2 hours

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Grease cookie sheet (or use parchment paper).
Place confectioner's sugar on a paper plate.
Roll dough into small balls and then roll in powdered sugar until completely covered.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until tops of cookies are set.
Cool on cookie sheet for a few minutes and then transfer to rack to cool completely.

Makes about 5 dozen cookies.

Tis The Season!

2009-11-18T16:12:00.000-06:00

Chex Mix

Ingredients:
1/2 c butter
2 T season salt
1/2 - 2/3 c Worcestershire sauce
2T garlic powder
1/2 T ground mustard
1/4 - 1/2 T curry, to taste (optional)
6-8 c chex cereal: 2 honey nut, 2 rice, 2 corn, 2 wheat
2 handfuls (approximately 2 c) pretzels
1 - 2 c mixed nuts

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 250. While oven is pre-heating, put the stick of butter in your large roasting pan and put it in the oven to melt the butter at the same time.
Remove pan once butter is melted and combine the rest of the ingredients together with the butter and mix well to coat the majority of the ingredients.
Heat for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
Spread on paper towels to cool for approximately 30 minutes to cool.

Christmas & Birthday Lists 2009

2009-11-07T19:58:00.008-06:00

This is a list of things the girls have asked for and things that have been bought (as far as I have been informed.) Hope it helps!

Bella - Size 6 jeans, not slim | Size 7/8 tops | Size 12 1/2 - 13 shoe

Zhu Zhu Pets: Mr. Squiggles Brown Hamster, Fun House, and Wheel (from Santa)
Polly Pocket Roller Coaster Resort (Kim)
Veterinarian Kit (Trisha)
Goldilicious by Elizabeth Kann (Kim)
My Amusement Park Leapster (Kim)
Denim Skirts (Sheila)
Best Friends Club 18" Doll - Addison (Sheila)
Best Friends Club 11" Doll (Barbie Size) - Addison (Trisha)
Outfits for an 18" doll
Three Musketeer costume for her 18" doll
Purplicious by Elizabeth Kann - hardcover, please
Roller Skates (the kind that fit over your shoes)

Bella likes Junie B. Jones Chapter Books by Barbara Park. We own books 1-12.
She is also starting to read on her own a bit, so the easy readers (Step 1 books or equivalent.)
She loves to play dress up, so costume clothing is great.
She's just getting into Barbie Dolls and loved Barbie and the Three Musketeers (she got Corinne for her birthday)
She enjoys crafts and art and will spend hours coloring, cutting, punching and gluing paper.
Her favorite color is pink (today).

Lili - Size 4 Jeans (adjustable waist) slim is okay | Size 4 or 4/5 tops | Size 9 shoe

Zhu Zhu Pets: Num Nums Gray Hamster, Fun House, and Wheel (from Santa)
Three Musketeer Barbie - Corrine (Sheila)
If You Give A Mouse A Cookie by Laura Numeroff (Kim)
If You Take A Mouse To The Movies by Laura Numeroff (Kim)
If You Give A Pig A Pancake by Laura Numeroff (Kim)
Disney Fairies Leapster Game (Kim)
Best Friends Club 18" Doll - Calista (Sheila)
Best Friends Club 11" Doll (Barbie Size) - Katilin (Trisha)
Crib for 18" Doll
Outfits for an 18" doll
Roller Skates (the kind that fit over your shoes)

Lili loves to play dress up, so costume clothing, dress up shoes, jewelry and stuff like that are all great.
She likes the Disney princesses and fairies.
She enjoys coloring, cutting, punching and gluing paper.

Either / Both

Leapster Games: Ni Hao, Kai-Lan and The Princess and the Frog (If you want one of these, let me know. They were on sale so I bought them already)
Paper Punches (the ones that are a bit more expensive, like $7-$15...Martha Stewart type, are easier than the cheap ones for the kids to push down on to punch the shape into the paper) we already have a crown, a dog pawprint, a sprig from a plant, and a flower.
Stickers
Stencils for tracing
UNO Moo Game
Tinkerbell and the Lost Treasure DVD (Trisha)
Ice Age 3 DVD (Trisha)
Build-A-Bear Gift Card(s)

Trisha

Super Mario Bros Wii Game
GE Crock Pot with Cool Touch and Locking Lid (Walmart)

Mike

Green by Ted Dekker (Trisha)
Long Sleeve, Turtle Neck Under Armor
Jeans

Love and Respect Conference

2009-10-21T15:41:00.000-05:00

Revolutionary wisdom for husbands and wives

Marriage expert and best-selling author of Love & Respect Emerson Eggerichs presenting live in person at Northwoods Community Church in Peoria

When:
Nov. 13, 2009 • 6:45–10pm | Nov. 14, 2009 • 8:45am – 1:30pm

Doors open 30 minutes before start each day. Auditorium seating is general admission and first-come, first-served with overflow anticipated. Due to the high demand for this conference, there will be no refunds. Childcare is not available during this conference.

Excited and burdened about male and female communication, Emerson launched the Love and Respect Conferences in August 1999 to serve husbands and wives.

Sarah and Emerson are convinced that a truth hidden in plain sight for 2000 years can make a difference in every marriage. This truth is found in Ephesians 5:33. Husbands must love their wives and wives must respect their husbands.

Emerson writes, "You may remember how the Beatles sang, 'All you need is love.' I absolutely disagree with that conclusion. Five out of ten marriages today are ending in divorce because love alone is not enough. Yes, love is vital, especially for the wife, but what we have missed is the husband's need for respect. This Love and Respect message is about how the wife can fulfill her need to be loved by giving her husband what he needs -- respect. And the husband can fulfill his need to be respected by giving his wife what she needs -- love. Does this always work? No. But if one is married to a person of good will, I would bet the farm that it would work!"

How Can I respect That?

Emerson received his B.A. in Biblical Studies and an M.A. in Communications from Wheaton College and Graduate school. He was awarded his Masters in Divinity from Dubuque Seminary. Later, he earned his Ph.D. from Michigan State University in Child and Family Ecology. Emerson was the senior pastor of East Lansing Trinity church from 1980 to 1999. He loved the pastorate in this college town with nearly 45,000 students. When he came, the church had 450 in attendance, and when he left over 2000 attended. He oversaw a paid staff of 40. He also initiated a building program, relocating Trinity Church on 70 beautiful acres in the Lansing area. That was completed in the year 2000.

Focus on the Family is sponsoring many of the Love and Respect Conferences across the nation.

The book Love and Respect (The Love She Most Desires / The Respect He Desperately Needs) won two awards in 2005: the Gold Medallion and Retailers Choice.

The Love & Respect book has been selected as the 2007 Book of the Year for Family Christian Stores."

Northwoods Community Church
10700 N. Allen Road
Peoria, IL
(309) 243-1375

Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe

2009-10-19T10:59:00.002-05:00

Olive Garden Italian Restaurant - Recipes - Recipe Search

Ingredients
3 cups milk
3 cups heavy cream
1 cup imported Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup imported Romano cheese, grated
12 egg yolks from fresh jumbo eggs
Salt and black pepper to taste

Procedures
1. HEAT milk and cream in a heavy bottom saucepan until it begins to simmer. Turn off heat. Slowly whip in cheese, then remove from heat.
2. PLACE egg yolks in a separate bowl and slowly whip in a portion of the hot milk and cream mixture. Slowly add egg yolk mixture back into remaining cream mixture. Place back on very low heat and continually stir until simmering. Take sauce off heat so it thickens. (This will increase temperature of egg yolks, known as tempering).
3. SEASON to taste with salt and black pepper. Serve over your favorite pasta.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Serving Size: 8

Shared via AddThis

Italian Chicken

2009-10-19T09:44:00.004-05:00

Ingredients:
Chicken breasts (6)
8oz Italian Salad Dressing
8oz Cream Cheese
14oz Chicken Broth
10.5oz Canned Cream of Chicken Soup
1/2 teaspoon Rosemary
1/2 teaspoon Thyme
Angel Hair Pasta (or pasta of your choice)
Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions:

Put chicken breasts in a slow cooker and pour the dressing over them. Cook on low 8-10 hours. Remove the breasts from the slow cooker and discard the dressing. Put the cream cheese, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, rosemary, thyme and salt and pepper in the slow cooker. Stir together as the ingredients melt. Meanwhile, cut the chicken into small pieces. Put the chicken back in the slow cooker with the sauce. Cook together another hour.

Prepare the pasta according to the package directions and serve the chicken mixture over the pasta.

Cheeseburger Soup

2009-10-05T15:14:00.005-05:00

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups water
1 small onion, chopped
1 tblspn beef bouillon granules
1 pound ground beef, cooked and drained
8oz process cheese, cubed
1/2 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup green pepper, chopped
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
1/2 tspn salt
2 1/2 cups milk (2 cups & 1/2 cup)
1/4-1 tspn cayenne pepper (optional)
2 tblspns all-purpose flour

Directions:
In a large saucepan, combine: water, potatoes, onion, green pepper, garlic, bouillon and salt; bring to a boil.

Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Stir in beef and 2 cups of milk; heat through.

Combine flour and remaining milk until smooth; gradually stir into soup. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. While pot is heating, cube your cheese.

Reduce heat stir in cheese until melted.

Add cayenne pepper. Top with bacon just before serving.

TGI Friday's Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

2009-09-15T09:27:00.002-05:00

Ingredients:
* 4 (4 ounce) chicken breasts
* salt and black pepper (to taste)
* 1 lb angel hair pasta
* 6-8 medium size roma tomatoes
* 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 minced garlic cloves
* 10tsp dried basil leaves or 10tbsp fresh basil leaves
* 2 garlic cloves, sliced into thin coins
* 1/2 cup tomato sauce
* 1 cup balsamic vinegar
* 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Directions:
1. Chicken Breasts: Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Grill 3-4 minutes per side for grill marks or until the chicken breasts reach 165 degrees F. Grill right before serving.

2. Pasta: Boil pasta as per directions on box until al dente.Drain and transfer to bowl.

3. Tomato Salad (Step 1): Wash, core and dice tomatoes to 1/4" pieces, save juices and place in small bowl. Wash, dry and cut basil leaves into thin strips. Combine tomatoes, basil, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic and hold for 2 hours before use.

4. Tomato Salad (Step 2): Heat heavy bottom saucepan under medium-low flame. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, heat oil for 20 seconds. Saute cloves of garlic, that are sliced into thin coins, in oil (if small use 3) for 45 seconds on each side until soft and tender - do not brown garlic (if brown DISCARD and start over). Increase heat and add tomato salad and stir.

5. Tomato Salad (Step 3): Add plain tomato sauce to pan and bring to a boil. Add pasta to sauce pan and toss with fresh sauce (sauce should just coat pasta). Transfer to a service platter or plate individually. Garnish with balsamic glaze.

6. Balsamic Glaze: Bring to a boil vinegar and sugar in small pan and turn down flame to a simmer Reduce by 75% until sauce turns to a thick syrup, hold at room temperature

7. To serve: Slice chicken breast into strips on a bias (45 degree angle) and place on top of pasta.Enjoy!

45 min | 15 min prep
SERVES 4

Sausage Gravy

2009-09-01T18:05:00.000-05:00

INGREDIENTS

* 1 (12 ounce) package maple flavored sausage
* 3 tablespoons butter
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups whole milk
* salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

Place sausage in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until evenly brown.
Remove sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving the drippings in the pan.
Stir in the butter until melted. Add flour, and stir until smooth.
Reduce heat to medium, and cook until light brown. Gradually whisk in milk, and cook until thickened.
Season with salt and pepper, and stir in cooked sausage.
Reduce heat, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. If gravy becomes too thick, stir in a little more milk.

BBQ for Pulled Chicken or Pork

2009-08-19T10:11:00.000-05:00

2 1/4 c chopped onion
3tbs oil
2 1/4 c ketchup
2 1/2 c chicken broth
1 c lemon juice
1/2 c + 1 c brown sugar
1/2 c + 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 c + 2 tbsp mustard
2 tbsp salt
1 1/2 tsp black pepper

Here's the bbq part of the recipe:

Saute onion in oil. Add to that the ketchup, chicken broth, lemon juice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Cook 15 minutes and pour over meat.

Tastes best when cooked a day ahead so the meat can marinate in the sauce overnight.

Herb Crusted Pork Loin

2009-07-18T15:53:00.003-05:00

Ingredients

1 (4-pound) boneless pork loin, with fat left on
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon dried basil or 2 teaspoons fresh basil leaves
1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
brown sugar

Directions

Preheat oven to 475 degrees.

Place the pork loin on a rack in a roasting pan. Combine the remaining ingredients in a small bowl. With your fingers, massage the mixture onto the pork loin, covering all of the meat and fat. Sprinkle with brown sugar, about 2 tablespoons or to taste.

Roast the pork for 30 minutes, then reduce the heat to 425 degrees and roast for an additional hour. Test for doneness using an instant-read thermometer. When the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees, remove the roast from the oven. Allow it to sit for about 20 minutes before carving. It will continue to cook while it rests.

Love Believes the Best, Day 7

2009-07-16T20:25:00.001-05:00

Challenge: For today's dare, get two sheets of paper. On the first one, spend a few minutes writing out positive things about your spouse. Then do the same with negative things on the second sheet. Place both sheets in a secret place for another day. There is a different purpose and plan for each. At some point during the remainder of the day, pick a positive attribute from the first list and thank your spouse for having this characteristic.

Journal: Which list was easier to make? What did this reveal about your thoughts? What attribute did you thank your spouse for having?

So, what room do I spend more time in? Yikes...Not sure I want to think about that, so lets move on to the journaling.

For me, the positive list was easier to make. I take this as a good sign!!I really am so lucky to have him as a husband. The list of positives by far outnumbered the negatives. And the list of negatives that I came up with were so very minor, that it hardly was worth it to write them down, tho it did make me realize how inconsequential they were in the grand scheme of things. I won't bore you with the entire positive list, but some of the things listed included the following:

* Patient
* Kind
* Hard working
* Trusting
* Loving husband and father
* Forgiving
* Thoughtful
* Honest

I won't bore you with any of the negatives, because I'm believing the best in my husband and not going to focus on them.

What does this reveal about my thoughts? I realized that if I were making the lists about ME, it would be easier to write negative things over positive things. It seems I spend more time in the Appreciation Room when it comes to my husband, yet when it comes to me I tend to hang out more in the Depreciation Room.

We were then supposed to thank our spouse for something on the positive list later in the day. Tonight when he got home from work, I thanked him for being so trusting. He never questions anything that I do or who I'm with.

Now to hide the lists and see what's in store for them!

Love Is Not Irritable, Day 6

2009-07-15T20:25:00.002-05:00

Challenge: Choose today to react to tough circumstances in your marriage in loving ways instead of with irritation. Begin by making a list below of areas where you need to add margin to your schedule. Then list any wrong motivations that you need to release from your life.

Journal: Where do you need to add margin to your life? When have you recently overreacted? What was your real motivation behind it? What decisions have you made today?

Today's chapter talks about how selfishness can take other forms, such as: lust, bitterness, greed, and pride. Out of this list of 4, I know that I have an issue with bitterness. I hold onto things and let them leak out when the smallest thing sets it off. I sit and I stew. I can hold onto things for days before either finding a way to let it go or go off. Grant it, usually I can end up letting it go, but there are those occasions that that doesn't happen. Since starting the Love Dare, I have tried to not hold onto things if they are not important.

Where do I need to add margin to my life...whew...most of you girls have seen my schedule! Is this question a joke? :) I probably need to add in some more "at home" time...the time where I just say "no" and stick to it. (This will probably kill me, so pray for me girls!)

When have I recently overreacted? That's a tough one because I'm a pretty easy going person. I suppose last week when Mike told me he was going to have to set up for VBS right after church instead of Sunday evening. That was not his fault, other than he didn't say no. He didn't plan that time, it was told to him. I did let it go and got over it...and I apologized for my reaction. My real motivation behind it was selfishness...that sounds so ugly.

What decisions have I made today? I'm going to let things go...not sweat the small things and not make mountains out of molehills. I also need to prioritize things and stick to my schedule, whether it's busy or has nothing on it.

Love is Not Rude, Day 5

2009-07-14T21:53:00.001-05:00

Challenge: Ask your spouse to tell you three things that cause him to be uncomfortable or irritated with you. You must do so without attacking them or justifying your behavior. This is from their perspective only.

Journal: What things did your spouse point out about you that need your attention? How did you handle hearing it? What do you plan to do to improve these areas?

Okay, I didn't want to do today's challenge, of course, who does? Who really wants to find out what irritates their husband about themselves? Should I just take a fail on this one? Should I just blow it off...yeah, that's it! Okay, I didn't blow off the challenge all together, because I know how important it is and I really do want to better my marriage, I just went about it in a different way...I e-mailed him. I figured it would be easier for him to answer me honestly if he weren't telling me my faults to my face...I'm just hoping that he limits my faults to only three! I'll update with the results once he responds to the e-mail. Good luck with this one girls!

Update: Here was his response:
I don't know if I have three things that really bother me, but I'll give you what I've got.

One thing that bothers me (that you already know) is how you leave things lying around instead of putting them where they go. To sum it up lack of order.

As far as personality traits/character stuff, there really isn't anything that bothers me much. It used to bother me how you didn't think ahead or get stuff ready ahead of time, but since the girls have come along you seem to get better about that all of the time.

Do you HAVE to have three things?

Love is Thoughtful, Day 4

2009-07-13T16:30:00.002-05:00

Challenge: Contact your spouse sometime during the business of the day. Have no agenda other than asking how he or she is doing and if there is anything you could do for them.

Journal: What did you learn about yourself or your spouse by doing this today? How could this become a more natural, routine, and genuinely helpful part of your lifestyle?

First off, I'm going to start by finishing off yesterday's challenge. Today I bought Mike a lovey-dovey card and put a little coupon in it for dinner at the restaurant of his choice next time we're going out together.

Now to Day #4...I must confess that this challenge is super duper easy for me because we do this already on a regular basis. We normally talk on the phone several times a day while Mike is at work. He calls to check on me and the kids, and I fill him in on the day's activities. I hate that he misses out on so much that we do, so I do my very best to help him feel connected, even while he is at work. Someone asked me a couple weeks ago if my hubby was very controlling because I call him to let him know what's going on...No, I don't call him because he wants to know where I'm at every second of the day or everything we do all day long...that would take more time and energy than it would be worth, I do it because I love him and because I want him to know that no matter what we're doing I'm thinking about him. (I also sent him a message on Facebook today, so do I get extra credit?)

Love is Not Selfish, Day 3

2009-07-12T21:49:00.002-05:00

Challenge: Whatever you put your time, energy, and money into will become more important to you. It's hard to care for something you are not investing in. Along with restraining from negative comments, buy your spouse something that says, "I was thinking of you today."

Journal: What did you choose to give to your spouse? What happened when you gave it?

Okay, first off, I have to laugh because Friday I was feeling selfish...should have looked ahead in the book!

Day 3, and I have already failed a challenge. I did not buy Mike anything today. Nothing. Nadda. Zippo. Zilch.

Today Mike had to help set up the sound system for VBS so I went with my parents and the girls to the Air Show. There wasn't too much opportunity to buy something that Mike would need there. I should have planned ahead. I should have made it a priority to go buy him a gift. I didn't. I have my reasons that would completely validate why I could not follow through, but the raw truth is I did not make him a priority today, the Love Dare a priority.

Honestly, buying anything for Mike scares me...what in the world would he want or need? So, in the spirit of honesty, maybe I did not follow through not because of all my "valid" reasons, but because I have a hard time with this anyway so I just used those reasons to validate my failure.

I will complete this task, it just has to wait until tomorrow when I am not spending the day at the Air Show getting sunburnt. :) On to Day 4! Bring it! :)

Love is Kind, Day 2

2009-07-11T20:27:00.001-05:00

Challenge: In addition to saying nothing negative to your spouse again today, do at least one unexpected gesture as an act of kindness.

Journal: What discoveries about love did you make today? What specifically did you do in this are? How did you show kindness?

Okay, in my effort to accomplish Day 2, I was thinking about discoveries about love that I made today and I realized how we really need to make an effort to show acts of kindness to our spouse. I mean, if you think about it, we seem to really go out of our way to do this for others, even complete strangers...we will hold the door for someone entering a store, drop everything to reach out to others in our lives and communities, take on too much for others, but when it comes to our husbands and children we tend to give them the "leftovers". I feel like I try hard NOT to do this, but today I realized I am guilty of this as well. I get busy with anything and everything in my day to day life, I tend to be very tired or stressed or just too lazy to make an effort to give my family what I am more than willing to give to others, even complete strangers. Makes lots of sense, doesn't it? Why in the world do we do this?

I wanted to do something out of the ordinary today as my "unexpected gesture of kindness", but it didn't happen quite like I was hoping. Saying nothing negative to my hubby today was extremely easy, but I didn't see Mike for most of the day today. :) As an unexpected gesture of kindness, since Mike worked on a friend's garage all day, we went out for dinner as a family. It was a nice evening. I also left a note on the bathroom mirror,

"Mike, I appreciate all you do! Love, Trisha"

I know that doesn't seem like much, but as much as I do appreciate Mike I really don't tell him near enough.

I feel like today, as far as the Love Dare stuff goes, was a success. Day 2 down, life to go. :)

Love is Patient, Day 1 cont...

2009-07-10T21:13:00.000-05:00

Okay, just got home from going into town, let me just say that the patience I have with my husband and my kids is tons more patience than I have for idiot drivers, but that's a entirely different issue to work on! LOL

Love Is Patient, Day 1

2009-07-10T17:24:00.005-05:00

Challenge: The first part of this dare is fairly simple. Although love is communicated in a number of ways, our words often reflect the condition of our heart. For the next day, resolve to demonstrate patience and to say nothing negative to your spouse at all. If the temptation arises, choose not to say anything. It's better to hold your tongue than to say something you'll regret.

Journal: Did anything happen today to cause anger toward your husband? (What about your kids?) Where you tempted to think disapproving thoughts and to let them come out in words?

Today is Day 1, Love is patient. Oh boy...here we go! Patience is not one of my strongest virtues, it is something I know, and have known it is an area I need to really work on. Patience with my husband does not seem to be that much of a challenge for me, but patience with the girls ,and with life, well that is the real challenge.

The book states, "Love will inspire you to become a patient person.". Hmmmm...I never thought about it that way, that patience and love go hand in hand. I mean my mind can grasp the concept, but have I really led my own heart to make the connection, to inspire patience within me? I mean, I know it is the right thing to do, I have been taught this from the Bible, but it never really sunk in, and it is much easier said than done!

As I write this I realize what I said is not true. I do have issues with patience with Mike at times. (An epiphany perhaps...where's that little light bulb that's supposed to be above my head?) God speaking to my heart once again. I vowed when I took on this dare that I would be real. I would face things head on and acknowledge the truth about myself. Honestly, I have a tendency to try to seek the positive in everything and I sometimes neglect to realize the reality of things as they are versus how I want them to be.

Ok, so back to Mike. Let me rephrase what I stated above, most of the time patience is not an issue for me in regards to him. Now, from his perspective about me, well that's probably a whole different story, so we'll not ask!

My morning for Day 1 started off with a bang...Mike has been asked to help out with some of the setup for VBS at Harvest and that was fine. This morning he told me that the setup time is now following church. This didn't sit well with me and I as far as the dare goes I was successful in not "saying" anything negative to him, but my attitude was all wrong. Actions speak louder than words, right? The Lord reminded me again just how selfish I am and when he gets home from work, I know that I need to ask his forgiveness for being so selfish.

As far as how I did with the girls on the dare, well considering they weren't with most of the day I did great. My parents met me at the library and dropped them off at lunch time, afterwards we ran some errands and they've been playing great together all afternoon. Praise God! But I wasn't perfect, I did react in anger a time or two when they were getting on each others nerves (not taking into consideration how tired they are), and therefore getting on my nerves. The Lord is really working on me with my short fuse and I know that as I yield to Him that He will allow me to improve in this area.

I am looking forward to tomorrow and seeing what is in store and I am going to keep on working on Dare #1 until I get it right. (It could be a while!)

Make An Investment in YOUR Marriage...I DARE YOU!

2009-07-09T17:38:00.002-05:00

Last year Mike and I went to see the movie Fireproof. It was awesome. The acting was decent, but the message was incredible. It really touched my heart and stirred up a longing to have a deeper, closer relationship with my hubby.

Earlier this week, while talking to some of the girls in the mom's group on the phone, we discussed the study book we were doing and some feelings about it. After those phone calls I was feeling led to suggest changing our study book for the time being. I had decided last week that I would do the Love Dare book myself and Kathy was going to do it with me, but after praying about it for a couple days I felt a great peace about suggesting it as a replacement study book. Fast-forward to today in our Mom's Group Bible Study we decided to switch gears and do the Love Dare book instead.

I’m determined to get through the entire book, be completely transparent with myself, and to make an improvement in myself and in our marriage. Please pray for me, and the other mom's that are taking on this dare, and look for my Day 1 post tomorrow!

By the way, Fireproof came out on DVD a few months ago. Check it out with your spouse and take on the Love Dare yourself. I’d love to hear about your journey.

Arby's BBQ Bacon Cheddar Roast Burger...FREE!

2009-07-09T16:56:00.000-05:00

When life gives you lemons...

2009-05-26T12:57:00.003-05:00

make some fresh squeezed lemonade!

22 oz fresh lemon juice (about 7 large lemons)
2 1/2 to 3 cups sugar
1 cup hot water
1 gallon cold water
strawberries (optional, but recommended)

In a 1 gallon container, place sugar and hot water, and stir until sugar dissolves. Add lemon juice and cold water to render 1 gallon. Stir until well mixed.

(Fresh squeezed lemon juice can be frozen in a freezer safe container for up to 4 months! So get them while they're on sale and freeze the juice for when you need it!)

Tastes great if you add pieces of strawberries either to your glass of lemonade or to the entire pitcher of lemonade.

New State Budget Eliminates Important Funding!

2009-05-26T12:51:00.002-05:00

Please take time to read the information below (under the banner). I strongly encourage everyone to call the Governor Quinn's office and oppose cutting funds for early childhood! This could impact the future of every state funded preschool program, including Bright Futures/Headstart.

You can support children & families and help prevent the loss of jobs and closing of centers by following these simple steps:

1. Call Governor Quinn at (217) 782-0244 and voice your opposition to any cuts in the Early Childhood Block Grant.

2. Email or call your legislators

and urge them to do the following:

- DO NOT pass a budget with cuts to early childhood programs including:

Early Childhood Block Grant funded through the State Board of Education
Home Visiting funded through the Department of Human Services, Healthy Families and Parents Too Soon budget lines
Child Care
Children's Mental Health

- DO reform the Illinois revenue system so that we can collect enough funding to adequately support early childhood programs.

- Tell leadership that you oppose the cuts and that you support revenue to fully fund programs for young children.

The General Assembly will consider both an operational and capital budget this week before their scheduled adjournment on May 31st. Unfortunately, both budgets may not include programs and investments vital to the lives of working families and children.

Capital Budget
In its current state, the capital budget does not include funding for early childhood facilities. Governor Quinn originally proposed $25 million for construction and renovation projects to keep up with the high demand for early childhood education. Without early childhood facility improvement and expansion, children around the state will lack the high-quality learning spaces they need to enter school prepared for success.

Operational Budget
Illinois is in the worst finacial crisis it has ever seen and there is real possiblity that legislators will pass the "doomsday" budget in order to meet the adjourment deadline. If the "doomsday" budget is passed, it could mean the following:

$1.5 billion cut to Education

Elimination of the Early Childhood Block Grant which provides preschool for 100,000 children.
Elimination of 14,300 teachers' jobs.

$769 million cut to Human Services

Elimination of child care for 1,000 children and increasing co-pays for remaining children.
Closing one out of every five Illinois Department of Human Services offices.
Elimination of home services for 5,000 people with disabilities.
Elimination of addiction treatment and prevention for 45,000 people.

We need you to take TWO urgent actions today:

1. Call your legislators today and tell them 3 things:

Restore $25 million for early childhood facilities as a part of any capital budget.
Pass an operational budget that includes $592 million for child care services and $392 million for the Early Childhood Block Grant (Preschool for All).
Increase revenue in a fair and sustainable way to ensure funding for these vital programs. Illinois working families and children should not bear the burden of balancing the budget.

2. Pass this information on to everyone you know.

Click the link below to log in and make your call:
http://www.votervoice.net/groups/ACTION/advocacy/?IssueID=18124&AdminPreview=True&SiteID=-1

To prevent these devastating cuts, you can also:

Forward the above information and encourage all your friends, family, coworkers, board members, and program participants to take action to protect funding for early childhood programs.
Write a letter to your local newspaper so that legislators feel pressure from the community as a whole, including the media.

More information and helpful tips can be found on these sites:

Grilled Potatoe Wedges

2009-05-21T16:53:00.002-05:00

INGREDIENTS:

5 potatoes, peeled and halved
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp season salt
2 tsp garlic powder
1tsp onion powder

Directions:

1.	Preheat grill for high heat.
2.	Place potatoes in a large saucepan with enough lightly salted water to cover. Bring to a boil. Cook 15 minutes, or until tender but firm.
3.	Drain potatoes, and pat dry. Coat thoroughly with vegetable oil and seasoned salt.
4.	Place potatoes on the preheated grill. Cook approximately 20 minutes, turning periodically.

PREP TIME 10 Min
COOK TIME 35 Min
READY IN 45 Min

Arby's Free Food Offer...

2009-05-19T21:25:00.000-05:00

Arby's is offering free food with purchase on Wednesdays at participating locations. The best deal looks like the free regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase, which happens once a month. Call first to make sure your local Arby's is participating:

MAY
20 - Free Chocolate Malt Swirl Shake with any sandwich purchase
27 - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase

JUNE
3 - Free Iced FruiTea with any sandwich purchase
10 - Free Roast Chicken Club with any soft drink purchase
17 - Free Regular Sidekickers with any sandwich purchase
24 - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase

JULY
1 - Free Regular Beef ‘n Cheddar with any soft drink purchase
8 - Free Orange Cream Swirl Shake with any sandwich purchase
15 - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase
22 - Free Roastburger with any soft drink purchase
29 - Free Iced FruiTea with any sandwich purchase

AUGUST
5 - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase
12 - Free Roast Chicken Club with any soft drink purchase
19 - Free Iced FruiTea with any sandwich purchase
26 - Free Regular Beef ‘n Cheddar with any soft drink purchase

Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork

2009-05-06T08:41:00.000-05:00

INGREDIENTS
* 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
* 1 (4 pound) pork shoulder roast
* 1 cup barbecue sauce
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup light brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon prepared yellow mustard
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tablespoon chili powder
* 1 extra large onion, chopped
* 2 large cloves garlic, crushed
* 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
* 8 hamburger buns, split
* 2 tablespoons butter, or as needed

DIRECTIONS

1. Pour the vegetable oil into the bottom of a slow cooker. Place the pork roast into the slow cooker; pour in the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Stir in the brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, onion, garlic, and thyme. Cover and cook on High until the roast shreds easily with a fork, 5 to 6 hours.
2. Remove the roast from the slow cooker, and shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, and stir the meat into the juices.
3. Spread the inside of both halves of hamburger buns with butter. Toast the buns, butter side down, in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Spoon pork into the toasted buns.

Note: The pork can also be cooked on Low for 10 to 12 hours.

PREP TIME: 15 Min
COOK TIME: 5 Hrs
Serves 8-10

Shepherd's Pie

2009-04-27T15:22:00.002-05:00

Ingredients:
5 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1/2 to 3/4 cup milk (use more or less depending how thick you like your mashed potatoes)
1 egg, beaten
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)
2 pounds ground sirloin
1 can mixed veggies (or you can use a bag of frozen)
1 large onion, chopped
3 tablespoons flour
2 cups beef stock
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 to 3 tablespoons chives, chopped
1 large onion, chopped

Yields: 6 servings

Preparation: Place the potatoes in a medium-size pot, cover them with cold water and bring to a boil. Salt the water and cook potatoes until fork tender, about 12-15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly. Mash them with the milk then stir in the egg. Season with salt and fblack pepper and set aside.

While the potatoes are cooking, make the filling: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the meat and brown it well, about 5 minutes. Add the vegetables to meat, season with salt and pepper and cook until the vegetables are softened, 8-10 minutes. Sprinkle the flour around the pan, stir and cook for about 1 minute. Add the stock and bring up to a simmer to thicken the gravy, 3-4 minutes. Season the gravy with Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper.

Turn broiler on and place rack in the middle of the oven.

Transfer the filling to a medium-size casserole or baking dish and top it with heaping spoonfuls of the horseradish mashed potatoes so they completely cover it. Brown the potatoes under the broiler, about 2 minutes, garnish with chives and serve.

Real Moms...Real Jeasus

2009-03-12T01:29:00.005-05:00

This coming weekend is the Hearts at Home National Conference in Bloomington. I'm very excited about going this year and know that it will be a very informative, refreshing weekend. To gear up for the weekend, I’d like to welcome author and speaker, Jill Savage. Jill’s recent book Real Moms…Real Jesus, just released, and I wanted to ask her about her real mom moments..

Jill, tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.

Mark and I have been married 25 years and we have five children. Anne is 24 and married to our wonderful son-in-love, Matt. Evan is 21 and married to our beautiful daughter-in-love, Julie. Erica is 18 and a college student at Heartland Community College. Kolya is 15 and in the 8th grade. We adopted Kolya at the age of 9 from Russia---the God story about his adoption is included in the Real Moms…Real Jesus book. And Austin is 12 and in the 7th grade.

Tell us about your newest book Real Moms...Real Jesus?

Real Moms…Real Jesus is a book designed to help moms understand that when Jesus lived on this earth he was fully God, yet fully man. We don’t often think about the fact that he was a human being and he lived the full human experience: pain, hunger, fatigue, frustration, betrayal, disappointment. He experienced it all!

There’s one verse in the Bible about Jesus that simply says “large crowds followed him everywhere he went.” Well, isn’t that the life of a mom? Large crowds follow her to the bathroom. They follow her to the kitchen. To the grocery store. She’s in high demand! And when Jesus lived on this earth, He was in high demand, too.

Why did you want to write this book?

Most of us long for a friend who understands. Yes, we need girlfriends who understand what our life is like. But we also need to understand that we have a friend who understands in Jesus. Too many of us think of God as being distant and unable to relate to our daily struggles. But nothing could be further from the truth! He understands and he wants us to build our friendship with Him. He wants to not only be our Savior, but also our Friend.

What do you hope your readers will gain from this book?

I hope that readers will gain a new perspective about their relationship with Jesus. I also hope to weave God’s truth into the daily life of a mom.

What unique elements will the reader find in Real Moms…Real Jesus?

Each chapter looks at some character trait in Jesus’ life that can help us in our life as a mom. In between the chapters are interactive vignettes that provide brief, refreshing glimpses into our real, messy, busy lives.

There are also questions at the end of the chapter for further consideration and suggested Bible reading in the book of Matthew. If the reader chooses to pursue the suggested reading, she will have read the book of Matthew completely by the end of the book!

There is also a leader’s guide in the back of the book so it can be used in a group setting.

This is a Hearts at Home book. What is Hearts at Home?

Hearts at Home is an organization that encourages, educates, and equips women in the profession of motherhood. Hearts at Home encourages moms through annual conferences, our extensive website (www.hearts-at-home.org), a free bi-weekly electronic newsletter, a radio program, and an entire line of books designed to meet the needs of moms all over the world!

Any closing thoughts?

I am very excited about this book! I believe that if a mom can strengthen her relationship with Jesus Christ, she will feel more equipped to be the mom she wants to be. I’m also offering an online book discussion on my blog beginning Tuesday, April 7. If you’d like to join us, you can subscribe to my blog at www.jillsavage.org.

I’d love to hear a reader’s thoughts after they read the book, too! You can connect to me through my blog at www.jillsavage.org.

Thanks, Jill, for taking time out of your busy schedule to share your real mom, real Jesus moments with us.

You can purchase your own copy of Real Moms…Real Jesus by clicking here.

And be sure to check out Hearts at Home, their conferences for moms, and all their online resources here.

How to Calibrate a Leapster

2009-03-07T17:03:00.000-06:00

Question:
How can I calibrate my Leapster?
(I’m posting this so I would know to recalibrate it when it goes out of alignment.)

Answer:
The following are instructions for calibrating the Leapster™ handheld.
1) Insert a cartridge, turn the unit on and wait for the sign-in screen to appear.
2) Hold down the Home, Hint and B buttons simultaneously.
3) When the screen changes, press the A button.
4) Using the Stylus, touch the center of the targets.

25 Random Things About Me

2009-03-06T10:51:00.000-06:00

1. My favorite color is a tie...between orange and purple...just depends on my mood I guess.
2. I hate spiders...it doesn't matter how big or small, I dislike them all...not in a box, or with a fox...
3. Sweet Peas are my favorite flowers.
4. I like to be the first person to open a jar of peanut butter so I can stick my finger in it.
5. When I go to sleep, I like to snuggle under the blankets, but I always have to have one foot off the side of the bed, out from under the covers.
6. I love going to zoos.
7. I could eat pizza every day of the week.
8. I've been up in a hot air balloon 4 times and think it's an awesome experience.
9. I attended three different grade schools growing up, all of which fed into the same high school, so I knew lots of people once I got to high school.
10. Grizzly Bears are my favorite animals and I would love to be able to see one in the wild.
11. I love Wranglers...it's a Jeep thing, you wouldn't understand.
12. I eat ketchup on my scrambled eggs.
13. My favorite color of Crayon in Brick Red, followed closely by Midnight Blue (I'm not even sure those are colors in the new boxes of Crayola Crayons though).
14. I used to have a pet cow named Sunshine.
15. My family is the most important thing in the world to me.
16. My friends follow a very close second to my family.
17. I wore glasses/contacts for about 25yrs (from 1st grade until I was almost 32yrs old)...then had LASIK and now have 20/10 vision and I don't miss my contacts and glasses at all.
18. I have my Associates Degree in Graphic Design, but my most rewarding job has been being a mother...also my toughest job.
19.White chocolate is my downfall.
20. My favorite TV show is LOST.
21. I'm a night owl...definitely not a morning person.
22. The sound of chalk or fingernails on a blackboard gives me chills.
23. I'm very thankful for my wonderful husband and cannot imagine life without him.
24. Someday I would love to take a cruise to either Alaska or Ireland.
25. I like regular Coke, not diet and diet Pepsi, not regular.

A little Stampin' Up! fun...

2009-02-26T21:41:00.000-06:00

Ellen came over and did a party for me and some friends. Here are a couple techniques that she demonstrated for us...

Cracked Glass -
A closer look at the "cracked glass" detail...

And Faux Metal -
A closer look at the "faux metal" technique...

And here is what we made as our "make and take" -

Stampin Up Ideas

2009-02-25T22:22:00.002-06:00

Just found Rachel's "The Scrappy Side of Life" blog tonight (see link in the sidebar to your right). She's got some really cute ideas and she's even running an awesome contest on your blog...be sure to check it out!

BOGO Meal at TGI Friday!

2009-02-23T11:40:00.002-06:00

This coupon expires March 1st, so enjoy is soon!

Petition Against Partial Birth Abortion/Freedom of Choice Act

2008-11-24T10:37:00.005-06:00

Barack Obama is now the incoming President and he made a promise to Planned Parenthood last year they expect him to keep.

"The first thing I’d do as President is sign the Freedom of Choice Act. That’s the first thing I’d do."

FOCA Would Wipe Away
EVERY RESTRICTION
on Abortion Nationwide

This would eradicate state and federal laws that the many Americans support, such as:

* Bans on Partial Birth Abortion
* Requirements that women be given information about the risks of getting an abortion
* Only licensed physicians can perform abortions
* Parents must be informed and give consent to their minor daughter's abortion

FOCA would erase these laws and prevent states from enacting similar protective measures in the future.

* FOCA will compel taxpayer funding of abortions
* FOCA will force faith-based hospitals and healthcare facilities to perform abortions.

Barack Obama believes this legislation will "end the culture wars." To him, "ending the culture wars" means eradicating every state and federal law on abortion.

Visit FightFOCA.org now to sign a petition against this Act!

Coupons.

2008-11-07T09:17:00.002-06:00

A friend of mine sent me some great links to places online that you can print off coupons. I've added them to my sidebar over to the right of this post. So, check them out and print off some great deals for your next shopping trip!

(Thanks Ruth!)

Don't Vote...

2008-10-05T15:39:00.001-05:00

Hearts at Home Week | Day 5

2008-10-05T06:33:00.001-05:00

For me, Hearts at Home was a great "get-away" weekend. It was refreshing to hear stories from other moms who have dealt with situations that we all deal with or will be dealing with; it was encouraging to learn ideas to help me delegate my time better and use it more efficiently; and it was uplifting to see that many moms together and having such a great time. I plan on going again next spring and already have a number of friends who have told me to add them to the list of who's going with me.

Today's question (even though it won't earn you any prizes):

If you've been to a Hearts at Home before, what was your favorite thing about it?

Now, the moment you've all been waiting for, using the script at random.org, the winner of our drawing is

Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers:
13

Entry #13 belonged to Rochelle! Congratulations Rochelle!

You get to choose which one of these three books you would like: The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized by Karen Ehman, Facing Every Mom's Fears by Allie Pleiter, or Is There Really Sex After Kids by Jill Savage.

Conference Dates:
Oct 3-4, 2008 Grand Rapids, Michigan
Nov 7-8, 2008 Rochester, Minnesota
March 13-14, 2009 Bloomington, Illinois
hearts-at-home.org

Hearts at Home Week | Day 4

2008-10-04T06:45:00.001-05:00

Hearts at Home not only offers these wonderful conference get-aways, they also have a wonderful website: hearts-at-home.org. On their site you can find many useful tools (including, but not limited to) a link to the books they offer; conference information; a blog full of great tips, reviews, and stories; and a link to their online mom community/forum.

Today is the last day to make your comments and be entered in to the drawing, so, with that being said, here's today's question...

What do you do to keep yourself motivated?

For each person that leaves a comment on my blog (under any of the Hearts at Home posts this week) will be in the drawing for one of the books that is available at the conference. How cool is that? Each day this week I will be asking a question for you to answer and on October 5th I will be drawing one of those names and posting it here on the blog (Each day there is a new question for you to answer...that means you have 4 chances to win!) The winner will get to choose which of these three books she would like: The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized by Karen Ehman, Facing Every Mom's Fears by Allie Pleiter, or Is There Really Sex After Kids by Jill Savage.

**please note - I don't know all my readers personally, so if you have any doubt, be sure to link with your e-mail address...and don't post anonymously otherwise it will be hard for you to win. I will be posting the winner's name here on the blog on October 5th, so be sure to check back!

Conference Dates:
Oct 3-4, 2008 Grand Rapids, Michigan
Nov 7-8, 2008 Rochester, Minnesota
March 13-14, 2009 Bloomington, Illinois
hearts-at-home.org

Hearts at Home Week | Day 3

2008-10-03T06:31:00.004-05:00

At the last conference, I purchased one of the books that is available as a prize, The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized by Karen Ehman. After listening to Karen speak during one of the sessions, I bought her book and have been trying to implement her ideas into my every day life. I still have a ways to go, but with this book I now have the tools that I need to get myself , my home, and my schedule more organized. Karen teaches you step-by-step how to create a system that will work for your specific family. She teaches you how to manage your time, unclutter/organize your home, get your kids interested in helping you and, most importantly, how to not over commit to things. A must read for anyone who needs help in any or all of those areas, which was and is definitely me!

Today's question:

What's your best tip or piece of advice for a mom?

Conference Dates:
Oct 3-4, 2008 Grand Rapids, Michigan
Nov 7-8, 2008 Rochester, Minnesota
March 13-14, 2009 Bloomington, Illinois
hearts-at-home.org

Hearts at Home Week | Day 2

2008-10-02T06:16:00.002-05:00

We're going to spend today getting to know Jill Savage, founder of Hearts at Home.

1. Growing up, did you ever see yourself as a mother – better yet, a professional mother? Please explain.

I had one goal in mind growing up…I wanted to be a music teacher. That’s how I envisioned my professional aspirations. I did see myself as a mother, but I felt that a teaching career would work well with motherhood (summers home, same schedule as school age children, etc)

2. Your organization’s purpose is to help mothers love their lives. Why is motherhood often looked down upon in today’s society?

I think we associate money with value. When a mother contributes to the family in a non-monetary way, we have wrongly assumed that the contribution isn’t as valuable as a monetary contribution.

3. Should a bright, intelligent, educated and professional young woman shy away from being a wife and mother if, in her heart, she desires to be?

We have the most educated generation of mothers we’ve ever had. We have more mothers with college degrees than any other preceding generation. That makes the decision to solely be a wife and mother an even harder decision to make. I believe however, that full-time motherhood is a valid career choice. A woman who desires to be at home for a season of time is not throwing her education away. As the founders of the former Mothers at Home group used to say, “She is simply applying her good mind and exceptional skills to the nurturing of her family.” And that is valuable!

4. How do you run an international ministry and still be the mother you’re instructing others to be?

15 years ago when Hearts at Home had our first mothering conference, we were expecting about 500 moms to attend. When 1100 mothers from 10 states showed up we realized that what we meant for a one-time event, God meant for the birth of a ministry. One of my early prayers was, “Lord, if this is going to be bigger than my vision, you have to send me many moms to make the work light.” God has answered that prayer over and over again. We have over 150 moms and about a dozen dads that serve the Hearts at Home ministry year-round. They each take one little piece of the puzzle and do their job well. I may be the most visible voice and face of the ministry, but home is still my priority.

5. What is the meaning of the name “Hearts at Home?”

There are so many good things that a mom can do---not just in the workplace, but also in the volunteer arenas. Before we know it, our heart is tugged in so many different directions. We encourage women to keep their heart at home---making their family their first priority---because we only have one chance to raise our kids.

6. Why must mothers make sure that their hearts are at home?

Most of us don’t realize just how fast our kids grow up. In the blink of an eye your kid moves from a Happy Meal to Value Meal #9! When you keep your heart at home, you make the most of this unique season of motherhood.

7. Does this mean you discourage mothers from working outside the home? How do you respond to those who do?

Hearts at Home makes no judgment call on those who work outside the home. We do, however, know that women who consider motherhood their profession need a cheerleader and that’s what we’re able to be for them. They also need quality resources that help them be the best wife and mother they can be. Honestly, though, most of the resources available through Hearts at Home would encourage any mom and we have a lot of working moms that attend our conference events and tap into our resources.

8. Why is a healthy marriage so important? In other words, why must you be a wife first and a mother second?

My husband and I are self-described as being married 25 years, 15 of them happily. That’s because we made a mistake in the early years that many couples make. We wrapped our lives around our children…and just about ruined our marriage. What we eventually learned as we sought out counseling to bring healing to our hurting relationship, was that the best gift we could give our children was a strong marriage. This gives our kids the stability they long for and assures us that our marriage has more in common than our children who will someday grow up and leave home. We’ve come to learn that taking intentional time to nurture and grow our marriage away from the children is the most loving act of parenting we can actually do.

9. How do you become the “intentional” mom that your family needs? What exactly does it mean to be intentional about motherhood?

Being intentional is about deliberately using the moments we are given with our children. It’s about being proactive rather than reactive. An intentional mom has a vision for her family and home environment and she pursues that with purpose and goals.

10. What’s one of the best gifts you’ve received from one of your children over the years?

It would have to be a picture of my teenage daughter with her arms spread wide and this message printed on the picture: “I am so grateful for all the years you have invested in my life. Thank you…for taking care of me when I was sick…for crying with me when I needed to cry…for loving me even when it was incredibly hard…for being patient with me when you probably wanted to yell at me…for spending time with me when I needed it most…for listening to me when I felt like no one could hear me…and for not giving up when times were hard.”

She gave that to me after an incredibly hard season of her teenage life. It made all the challenges of mothering in that season worth it!

11. What universal, unchanging piece of advice would you give to all mothers?

In the words of my dear friend Charlene Baumbich, “Don’t miss your kids…they’ll be gone before you know it!”

We can’t go back and raise our kids again. We’re presented the opportunity just once. Use this season to the fullest and keep your heart at home.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Today's question:

What is the hardest thing about being a mom?

Conference Dates:
Oct 3-4, 2008 Grand Rapids, Michigan
Nov 7-8, 2008 Rochester, Minnesota
March 13-14, 2009 Bloomington, Illinois
hearts-at-home.org

Hearts at Home Week | Day 1

2008-10-01T05:50:00.001-05:00

Hey mom! Did you know that there are other moms out there that understand what you go through each day? Of course you knew that, but wouldn't it be nice to be able to talk with some of them and get ideas for how they handle things, what works, what doesn't? Then you need to know about Hearts at Home. I went to Hearts at Home for the first time last spring and it was awesome! A Hearts at Home conference is like going to “mommy school.” You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll be inspired to be the best mom, wife, and woman that you can be. Additionally Hearts at Home offers books, an online community, a bi-monthly magazine, and a free E-Newsletter. I strongly urge you to grab some girlfriends and attend one of their upcoming conferences:

October 3-4, 2008 Grand Rapids, Michigan
November 7-8, 2008 Rochester, Minnesota
March 13-14, 2009 Bloomington, Illinois

If you don’t live close enough to drive to a conference, and hopping on a plane isn’t an option, you can also order a Home Conference Packet which gives you the conference via CD.

Check out the Hearts at Home website today to find out all that Hearts at Home has to offer you!

Okay, all that being said, there's one more thing to tell you...for each person that leaves a comment on my blog (under any of the Hearts at Home posts this week) will be in the drawing for one of the books that is available at the conference. How cool is that? Each day this week I will be asking a question for you to answer and on October 5th I will be drawing one of those names and posting it here on the blog (Each day there is a new question for you to answer...that means you have 4 chances to win!) The winner will get to choose which of these three books she would like: The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized by Karen Ehman, Facing Every Mom's Fears by Allie Pleiter, or Is There Really Sex After Kids by Jill Savage.

So, without further ado, here's today's question:

What is your favorite thing about being a mom?

I Spy! Private Eye Game Review and Giveaway

2008-09-29T11:42:00.002-05:00

Sarah from SassyFrazz has posted a review of the I Spy! Private Eye Game for kids on her blog, as well as a chance for you to win the game for your kids.

Click here to read the review and your chance to win the game!

The contest will end on October 15th, at 7:00 PM CST.

FIREPROOF...Never Leave Your Partner Behind

2008-09-24T12:02:00.011-05:00

I haven't seen this yet, obviously since it doesn't come out until Friday, but some good friends who went to the pre-showing said it was great. I'm looking forward to seeing it! As if it didn't sound like it was a good enough movie anyways, I also just got an e-mail from Third Day and two of their songs are in the movie...wooohooo!

Here's a link to the trailer...makes me want to see it even more!

Say "I DO!" to Fireproof, the much-anticipated new movie from the creators of Facing the Giants, opens in over 800 theaters around the United States this weekend. 95 of those locations are because churches, organizations and individuals have said, “I do” to purchasing at least 1000 tickets to bring it to their city.

Many churches have purchased blocks of tickets to give to their members, as well as to local firefighters and public safety personnel, so you'll probably be part of a big fun group. Get your tickets now. Remember prime movie times may be sold out, so you might need to be flexible on the time. When is the last time you attended a midnight showing? Maybe it's time for a late date.

Don’t wait! Act now and purchase your tickets for opening weekend. Go online today to buy tickets from your local theater to ensure you will be part of the opening weekend audience.

“Fireproof” - the Story

At work, inside burning buildings, Capt. Caleb Holt (Kirk Cameron) lives by the old firefighter’s adage: Never leave your partner behind. In the cooling embers of his marriage, he lives by his own rules. Growing up, Catherine Holt (Erin Bethea) always dreamed of marrying a loving, brave firefighter … just like her daddy. Now, after seven years of marriage, Catherine wonders when she stopped being “good enough” for her husband.

Regular arguments over jobs, finances, housework, and outside interests have readied them both to move on to something with more sparks. As the couple prepares to enter divorce proceedings, Caleb’s father challenges his son to commit to a 40-day experiment: The Love Dare. Wondering if it’s even worth the effort, Caleb agrees—for his father’s sake more than for his marriage. When Caleb discovers the book’s daily challenges are tied into his parents’ newfound faith, his already limited interest is further dampened.

While trying to stay true to his promise, Caleb becomes frustrated time and again. He finally asks his father, “How am I supposed to show love to somebody who constantly rejects me?” When his father explains that this is the love Christ shows to us, Caleb makes a life-changing commitment to love God. And—with God’s help—he begins to understand what it means to truly love his wife.

But is it too late to fireproof his marriage? His job is to rescue others. Now Caleb Holt is ready to face his toughest job ever … rescuing his wife’s heart.

An action-packed love story, Fireproof will have audiences laughing, crying, and being pulled toward the edge of their seats as they are drawn into the world of a firefighter, his wife … and a marriage worth rescuing!

SRC | Weeks 10 thru whatever today is...

2008-08-15T23:16:00.007-05:00

Week 10 ------------------------------- August 15 - August 21, 2008

#13 Lessons from the Road by Nigel James: Yes, I was a sheep and followed the herd by buying this book and was not disappointed.

This book goes behind the scenes of life on tour with Third Day and their Road Pastor. (YAY!) The devotions that Nigel has placed in the book are ones that he has shared while on the road with the guys. It allows us to see how a road pastor is able to encourage members of the group. I enjoyed reading the sections from each of the guys about the different things each of them faced and the how they dealt with them and the different aspects of living out their faith in front of the public. It also gave me much more respect for the guys, being devoted to God, their ministry as Third Day, their families, and various ministries throughout the world. And what a great reminder, found early on in the book, that "we are all soldiers for Christ".

I found myself both encouraged and challenged by this book and would recommend it to anyone.

Week 11 ------------------------------- August 22 - August 28, 2008

Son of a Witch by Gregory Maguire. Son of a Witch picks up a bit after Wicked ends, after the Wizard of Oz falls from power. As the title tells us, it follows the life of Elphaba's son, Liir, whom we were introduced to in the latter part of Wicked.

I'm only a little ways into it the book, but it unfortunately follows in Wicked's footsteps with not being easy to read. I'm not sure what it is about Maguire and the way he writes his books, but none of them are written in the same way and this "Oz" series just doesn't read well for me. Other than that, it seems to be an okay book, nothing spectacular as of yet.

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Outlander by Diana Gabaldon: I'm only a few chapters into it thus far, but enjoying it much more than I was Son of a Witch

Week 12 ------------------------------- August 29 - September 04, 2008

#14 Outlander by Diana Gabaldon: I picked this book up as a recommendation from several peeps as something that would take the place of the Twilight series that I had just finished. I was told that these books were similar, but written more for an adult audience. Well, I kept reading and reading and finally got to the end, but no signs of a vampire or werewolf...not sure why someone thought that this was similar to Twilight...what can I say, I have weird friends!

This story takes place around 1945 and follows the life of Claire, a war nurse, and Frank, her husband. Claire, while picking flowers at a local henge, is transported to 1743 (okay, yes, that part was a bit wonky) where she meets an ancestor of her husband, Captain Randall, who turns out to be nothing like her husband, other than in looks. Rescued from her captor, she is taken in by the Mackenzie clan where, due to circumstances that endanger her life, she is forced to marry young Jamie. Jamie is very endearing, but being married already...in 1945...for Claire this is not the ideal marriage. Over the coming days, Claire finds herself town between her past and her future.

Pay attention to the beginning of the book, even though it's kinda slow. This information will fit into the book later. Aside from the graphic scenes, both of violence and intimacy, this book draws you in. The characters are very likable...most of the time. The language in the book - some of the conversations written to sound like Scottish talk - is difficult to get used to, but it seems to be keeping my attention much better than my #14 book. I really enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down, even at 1:30 in the morning!

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Guess it's back to reading Son of a Witch now. Is the reading club over yet? I don't even know....does anyone know?

Week 13 ------------------------------- September 05 - September 11, 2008

This weekend my husband and I went to a parenting seminar, Shepherding a Child's Heart by Dr. Tedd Tripp. It was an excellent seminar and a great reminder of some things that we may have forgotten or let slide. Anyways, while there, I picked up a book...

#15 "Don't Make Me Count To Three!" by Ginger Plowman. This book is supposed to encourage and equip moms to reach pat the outward behavior of their children and dive deeply into the issues of the heart.

What a refreshing look at how to redirect children to examine the motivations of their hearts. This book teaches about discipline and reproof and how to balance the two. It also works through several situations and the proper way to deal with them. It examines the world's view -vs- a biblical view of spanking and the need for it. While this book might not be for everyone, and what parenting book is, there is much that you can take from this book even if you don't agree with everything. I really enjoyed reading it.

Week 14 ------------------------------- September 12 - September 18, 2008

Still reading Son of a Witch...not really enjoying it too much thus far. I'm just not "getting into it".

#17 Dark Lover by JR Ward While on hiatus from reading Son of a Witch I read this book...Yes, another vampire book, seems to be a theme tor me this summer.

This book is the first book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, the story of Wrath, the vampire king. Ward has a little different take on the Vampire world that I really like. They are a different species that can't turn others to be their kind. They exist along side the humans without allowing knowledge of their species. Ward also creates the Lessening Society. This is a brilliant addition to her book because this society's goal is to eliminate the Vampires. So, there are real tensions and threats to the Vampire's existence that gives the story so much depth. The Brothers are...fun, sexy, interesting, and intelligent. I'm ready to read the next book now.

Week 15 ------------------------------- September 19 - September 25, 2008

Still reading Son of a Witch...well, not really, it's just sitting there. I just picked up Beyond the Spiderwick Chronicles: A Giant Problem, so I plan on reading it right after I finish the next in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, Lover Eternal. I'll have to get back to Son of a Witch when they're finished.

#17 Lover Eternal by JR Ward: This is the second book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. This is the story of Rhage, a vampire who has been cursed with a "beast" inside of him that makes him keep his temperament in check at all times, and Mary, a human who is struggling with cancer. Rhage falls for Mary very early on in the book and tries for what seems like forever to convince Mary of it...which gets a bit annoying at times, but understandable since she doesn't know what her future holds because of the cancer. This book gives you a bit more info on some of the others in the Brotherhood, as well as setting everything up nicely for the next book...which I'm off to see if they have at the library.

#18 Beyond the Spiderwick Chronicles: A Giant Problem by Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi: Our story begins where The Nixie's Song left off. Nick and Laurie are learning how to kill the giants before they destroy the entire state. Along the way, they capture an entertaining little creature and find that Taloa has left her pond in search of her sisters by herself. That being the least of their problems right now, Nick and Laurie must figure out how to get rid of the giants first. Without giving anything away, this book has a nice little twist at the end that will have you waiting for the final book in this series...for your kids to read, of course. :)

SRC | Week 9

2008-08-09T17:03:00.000-05:00

I just picked up Lessons from the Road by Nigel James from the Post Office...hmmm...sound familiar? Seems everyone that has read it and reviewed it for the SRC has really liked it.

SRC | Week 8

2008-08-01T20:53:00.000-05:00

#12 Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer: This is the fourth book in the Twilight Saga. I've read the first three and loved them all. There was a simpleness to them, great character development and an interesting story line to work through.

Breaking Dawn was different from the first three books. The first difference is that this book is broken up into three books. The first book, told from Bella's point of view, contained the wedding and honeymoon. It moved very quickly, which is fine since it was the wedding and all, but annoying because I just couldn't really get into it. The first book does take a surprising turn before it ends though, so be prepared. The second book, written from Jacob's point of view, brought us a bit further into the story (can't say too much here without spoiling things...which apparently some of my reviews/summaries have done...sorry.) The second book slows things back down a bit, which is nice. Gives the story a little time to develop instead of feeling so rushed. The third book is back to Bella's point of view and to me seemed a bit more reminiscent of the previous three books in the series. I do think that Stephenie could have spent a bit more time on the book. I could have used a little less of how beautiful Edward was, how beautiful Bella was...this got annoying in the earlier books too though, so might just be me. Much of the book seemed to be filled with fluff to get us through to the next chapter and earlier books didn't seem that way.

A set of books I will be more than happy to let my daughters read when they are old enough. Would I say rush out and buy this one in particular, probably not, but borrow it from a friend or go to your local library and put your name on the wait list for it for sure.

SRC | Week 7

2008-07-25T21:17:00.000-05:00

#11 Mirror, Mirror by Gregory Maguire: Our story is set on a family farm in Tuscany where a seven year old "Snow White" in the form of Bianca and her father Don Vincente de Nevada live. Early on in the book, Vicente has found a mirror in a lake on his estate, but how it got there unknown. Soon after, Cesare and Lucrezia arrive, needing the isolation of the Nevada estate for their own purposes. Cesare also has a use for Vicente, and offers him a choice...he can either join Cesare's army and face certain death, or he can go on a quest for him, a quest to find three apples, but not just any apples, these apples are from the Tree of Knowledge...you know, Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve. Having no choice but to accept the quest, Bianca is left in the care of her father's farm staff and the infamous Lucrezia Borgia, Cesare's sister.

As the years tick by Lucrezia becomes less and less enthused about Bianca and eventually hires a hunter to kill her. But the hunter doesn’t kill her, bless his tender heart, he takes her deep into the woods instead and then he kills a deer and takes the heart back to Lucrezia as proof that the girl is dead. Meanwhile, Bianca falls into a deep sleep in the woods and is taken in by six unusual characters, who as you’ve undoubtedly guessed by now, are dwarves. But where is the seventh dwarf? The missing dwarf was the strange creature that had observed Vincente's discovery of the mirror (that he and the other dwarves had created) and had followed Vicente ever since. Eventually Bianca wakes up and slowly starts to see and comprehend the dwarves and the strange house in which she’s been staying. Saying much more about the plot might reveal too much of the ending. Let me just say that what happens in the last part of the book is similar to the Disney movie.

Overall I’d say this book is okay. I was disappointed because I wanted a new perspective on a familiar story but I felt like all I got was the same story dropped into a different time with a few different names. I thought there were some clever ideas such as the poisoned apple was actually from the Garden of Eden and the mirror being created by the dwarves. The characters bored me...I never learned anything about any of the characters that made me care about them or even dislike them and when it all ended I just felt like I hadn’t learned anything. Maybe I just missed what Maguire was getting at. If viewed as pure entertainment, the book's not bad. I didn't regret reading it, but compared to Maguire’s other works I’d say it’s way below Wicked.

SRC | Week 6

2008-07-18T21:42:00.000-05:00

This week I've been reading Mirror, Mirror by Gregory Maguire. I've had tons of work to do too, so I haven't gotten very far on it. Mirror, Mirror is Maguire's take on Snow White. In the same style as Wicked and Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister, Maguire tells us about Snow White's life before the tale of Snow White that we all know and love. More to come next week...I'm hoping!

I'm also very excited because I get to pick up Breaking Dawn, Stephenie Meyer's new book, at the end of this week!!!! I might have to put Mirror, Mirror on hold for that one!

SRC | Week 5

2008-07-11T17:21:00.000-05:00

#10 Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister by Gregory Maguire: In the style of Wicked, Maguire is sharing his take on the classic fairytale, Cinderella, from one of the stepsister's point of view.He shows us what could have really happened and where the fairytale could have come from, after centuries of retelling and altering the "real" story.

The book starts out with a widow, Margarethe, and her two daughters, Ruth ~ a large, simple-minded girl, and Iris ~ a smart girl with plain looks, who are fleeing from their English country village after her husband's violent murder. They return to the town that Margarethe grew up in only to find that they have no relatives or home left there. In search of a place to stay, they find shelter in the home of a painter, Master Schoonmaker. The mother takes a job in his household doing chores and mixing paints, Ruth is asked to pick wild flowers for the him to paint and Iris is only to pose for him to paint in his paintings. After several months of living and working in the Master's home, Margarethe is offered a job in the home of a very wealthy man. Master doesn't want her to go and proposes to her, but she won't marry him because he is too poor and can offer nothing to her and her daughters (a glimpse into her scheming ways).

This new house is that of a prosperous merchant, Van den Meer, his wife, Henrika, and beautiful daughter, Clara, who is not allowed to leave the house for reasons we will only know at the end of the book. The Master is asked to paint a portrait of Clara with tulips, a beautiful flower with a beautiful red color that the father is trying to import, and he creates a masterpiece that he is afraid won't be able to repeat. The mother, pregnant, dies before giving birth (the reason for this will also be revealed later), and Margarethe soon manages to convince Van den Meer that the town will start talking if they don't get married, so they do. Clara is not happy about this situation at all. Margarethe does not wish to replace her mother, but does want the respect that goes along with being the wife and running the household. Clara, not being used to having to do anything and used to having everything given to her, refuses and thus Margarethe starts behaving with Clara as the stepmother we have grown to know and love in the fairytale, commanding Clara to clean and do other household chores. Clara has never had to do any of this and Iris takes pity on her, helps her, and teaches her how to do things. For her, Clara is now her sister and she finds her duty to take care of her as she takes care of Ruth.

Van den Meer is gone from the house often, either due to business or due to the fact that he doesn't want to be around Margarethe. Clara, upset by her mother's death and her father's outings, refuses leave the kitchen. She says she finds the silence and the work comforting, and she will soon ask people to call her Cinderella, or Cinder girl. Try as she might, Iris can't make her leave the house and behave like a normal child. (Thus making it just as much her fault for her "maid" situation, not completely the wicked step-mother's fault in the way we think it is.)

Van den Meer makes a huge business mistake and his work fails miserably and he falls into a depression so deep that he is not able to get out of bed. The family has basically lost everything and Margarethe is left to try to straighten out the situation. So Margarethe, who has become more cunning and more wicked than before, decides that she wants Clara to get married to a disgusting, but wealthy, merchant and will try to get Iris married to a prince who travels the country with his Aunt, the Queen, in search of a wife. Clara is forbidden by Margarethe to go to the ball, which is fine with her because she doesn't want to be seen out of the house. Iris does not give up though and finally convinces her that she should go. Clara agrees as long as she can keep her face covered with a veil.

The prince, upon meeting Iris, finds her enchanting and gives her his whole attention...until Clara arrives. As we all know, he falls immediately in love with Clara, but it is not the clock striking twelve that makes her leave as much as a fire that destroys the beautiful painting of her with the tulips the Master had borrowed to show the Queen. The shoe the prince brings to the house the following day is only an excuse to find the culprit of the fire, and that he does; he also discovers Clara. They finally get married and Clara is careful to send money and help for Iris and Ruth, her beloved sisters, who love her as much as she loves them. As for Margarethe, she is another story, but she's done enough damage not to deserve much respect. Clara has left it to Iris and Ruth to decide how to care for their mother.

Don't skip the prologue and the epilogue...many things are brought to light. Between Wicked and this book, Maguire has definitely been able to capture the "gray" areas of otherwise black and white children's stories.

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Sunday, July 13th - Eeek! I'm so excited! I just pre-ordered Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer while we were at Borders...you better believe I'll be there on August 1st at midnight to pick it up...I'll probably start reading it too! I'm so excited I could just pee!...okay, maybe not quite that excited, but quite happy. ;0p

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#9 Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney: This is one of my favorite kids books (I won't be sharing too many of these since I'd have about 20 a day to write, but we just read this one again and I wanted to share). I bought this book after having our first daughter and we read it almost every night to her at bedtime. Although she's getting a bit too old to enjoy it like she used to, she still picks it out for her bedtime book now and then. Little Nutbrown Hare is telling his father, Big Nutbrown Hare, how much he loves him in a form of comparing it to the measure of actual things. Of course, being a typical male, daddy has to one-up his son and go one measure up from anything that Little Nutbrown Hare says. (LOL...just kidding about the typical male jab). Just before falling asleep, Little Nutbrown Hare amazes his Dad with the statement "I love you right up to the moon." Of course, Dad does one-up this too, but only after his son is sound asleep. Anita Jeram's illustrations for this book are beautiful and the colors are perfect for capturing the sleepy-time feel of this bedtime book. I give this book as a baby gift quite often and I highly recommend it to any parent.

Corn Casserole

2008-07-09T16:07:00.000-05:00

1 box Jiffy corn bread muffin mix
1 stick butter - melted
1 cup sour cream
1 can corn - drained
1 can cream corn

Mix it all up and cook it 350 for about an hour.
This recipe is for a 2qt. dish, I usually double it for a 9X13 though.

SRC | The Last 90 Days

2008-07-05T20:33:00.000-05:00

In lieu of the holiday weekend, Mark has asked us a couple questions about The Last 90 Days:

1) IN THE LAST 90 DAYS, what is the one book that has impacted you the most?

2) IN THE LAST 90 DAYS, what is the one artist and/or album that has impacted you the most?

Eeekkk! - nothing like starting off the week with a tough set of questions! Hmmm...in the past 90 days, gotta think...

The book that has impacted me the most over the past 90 days..., other than the devotional that I'm going through,Time to Get Serious by Tony Evans - it's awesome, I'm going to say it was The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized by Karen Ehman. I heard Karen speak at the Hearts at Home Conference this past spring. (It's a conference for stay-at-home moms and this book has really motivated me to get my house and life more organized, thus making a huge impact on my and my family's life. Karen teaches you step-by-step how to create a system that will work for your specific family. She teaches you how to manage your time, unclutter/organize your home, get your kids interested in helping you and, most importantly, how to not over commit to things. A must read for anyone who needs help in any or all of those areas, which was definitely me!

The one artist or album that has impacted my life the most over the past 90 days...I don't know that I can narrow it down because I usually listen to the local Christian station or just a mix of music on my computer. I will say that I honestly listen to Third Day probably the most and between listening to your music and keeping involved with you guys on your site and the blogs, plus this reading club, I really think I would have to answer Third Day (yes, I know, I'm a brown-noser!) Sometimes it feels like I personally know you guys and you'll never know what an awesome thing it is that you take time out of your busy schedule to do things like personally post on your blogs or respond to posts on facebook. Most people, if they bothered to do it at all, would hire someone to take care of those type of things for them. You guys genuinely seem to care about your fans...it all brings a smile to my heart and soul as well as my face. Thanks!

Whew, that's a novel of a post...sorry!

...now back to our regularly scheduled SRC!

SRC | Week 3

2008-06-27T21:07:00.000-05:00

#7 Before I Wake by Dee Henderson: Before I Wake is twisting story that follows the intertwined lives of three main characters: Sheriff Justice, his friend and private investigator Bruce Chapel and Bruce's former girlfriend, now business parter Rae Gabriella.

Rae left the FBI after years of dedicated service when a case went ugly. She accepts a position as a private detective at Chapel Detective Agency, headed by her former Fed partner Bruce Chapel in Justice, Illinois.

Justice County Sheriff Nathan Justice has his hands full with a strike that could turn violent and his grandfather. However, he soon has more to deal with when Peggy Worth is found dead in her hotel room, five rooms away from where Rae is staying; a woman she met earlier in the day. Peggy's parents hire Rae to investigate what seemed likely a natural death in her sleep of a twenty-eight years old healthy female. Soon Bruce, Rae and Nathan know that a serial killer murders women in their hotel room without a whisper or a hint of a struggle, but never takes their money or jewelry so no motive has surfaced. Whereas she seeks justice, he fears she could be next.

Have you ever had a book that when it finished you sat back and thought oh my? Well, this is one. Dee Henderson, as always, does a fabulous job of pulling the reader into the work and getting them to be part of the story. There is a bit of a triangle developing between Bruce, Nathan and Rae. Bruce is a man she once almost married and Nathan is quickly becoming more than just a friend. The twists and turns the plot takes are great and keep the reader always on their toes. Each word becomes something you focus on so you don’t miss anything. The characters are real and deep as they deal with various situations.

The "oh my" part comes though in that everything isn’t solved by the end. As readers we get very used to everything being wrapped up in a neat little bow by the end of the story. This book is obviously going to be a series with more great installments to come. Now don’t get me wrong, if Before I Wake is the only one you ever read, you aren’t left hanging out in left field. However, it sure leaves you ready for the next book. I know I can’t wait!

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#8 The Marriage Wish by Dee Henderson: A short and sweet review for this little book. Our main character, Jennifer, has lost a husband and child and she's afraid to love again. Since I have two daughters, I look at conflicts involving children differently now. I've never lost a child, but I do know that it would be hard for me to get over losing either of my girls because they mean the world to me! Even with God's grace, getting over the death of a child is would be an extremely hard thing to do. As in most romance novels, there is a happy ending and Jennifer does find the courage to have children. Not as good as some of Dee's other work, but still a good read.

As a sidenote: If you haven't read any of Dee Henderson's other books (The O'Malley Series and Uncommon Hereos Series) you definitely should.

SRC | Week 2

2008-06-20T06:54:00.000-05:00

Hmmm...at this rate I'm going to have to look up some more books to last...to August...through August??? When does this thing end?

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#5 Betrayed (Book 2) by PC and Kristin Cast: In this follow-up to the book Marked, Zoey has begun to settle into her life at the House of Night. She is now the leader of the Dark Daughters & Sons and High Priestess in training, but something still feels wrong. Zoey wonders if it has anything to do with the ghosts she's been seeing, or if it's all just her imagination...but when a couple of her old acquaintances go missing and then later turn up dead, Zoey is inclined to start listening to her instincts. Her instincts are telling her that perhaps the strange feelings and dreams she's been having might just be some sort of vision. For someone she trusts is definitely not what they appear, and betrayal can lie in the most unlikely of places.

I really enjoyed this book. Although annoying at times (probably only because I have already read Marked), it works well for readers who may have missed the first book as the authors brings up any important points from the previous novel that you might need to know. Okay, now on to Chosen, which I just so happen to have sitting right here. :0)

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#6 Chosen (Book 3) by PC and Kristin Cast: In this third book of the House of Night series, Zoey's adventures at the vampyre school have taken a turn. Her best friend, Stevie Rae, who has become a very scary version of a vampyre, is struggling to maintain her hold on humanity, while Zoey tries to figure out what she can do to restore her friend to her former self. Zoey also finds herself juggling not two, but three boyfriends...And all these secrets she's having to keep from her best friends. For some strange reason, the only person Zoey seems to be trusting is the furthest person from her friend, Aphrodite. Now, while Zoey is juggling all that is going on, things are getting worse because Vampyre professors are being murdered and all leads point to the People of Faith, Zoey's own stepfather's religious group, as the most likely suspects! Yikes!

Best part about the book (I'm being sarcastic here) is that it leaves you hagning...um...what happens next!!! In any case, I enjoyed this book as much as the first two, if not more because I'm beginning to really like the characters. Okay, I guess I need to Google to see when the next book, Untamed, comes out now!

SRC | Week 1

2008-06-13T20:09:00.000-05:00

3. Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire: Did you ever want to know how the Wicked Witch of the West became wicked? Maguire tells us the story behind how Elphaba (the Wicked Witch), her sister Nessarose, and her school roommate Galinda deal with the conflicts that we all face...good and evil, God and religion, racism, prejudice, sibling rivalry, status, politics, lust and love. Elphaba was born with green skin, shark’s teeth and an aversion to water. She is not wicked just insecure and she eventually commits her life to overthrowing the controlling Wizard.

The Wizard of Oz story with which we are all familiar with, either from the L. Frank Baum book or the movie, doesn’t even appear until the final section of the book There are references throughout the book to characters that appear in the later Baum books, such as TicTok and Ozma. We get an inside scoop on the winged monkeys, the Yellow Brick Road, the house that kills Elphaba's sister and the Ruby Slippers that cause so much drama. We also find out that Glinda (formerly known as Galinda), the good Witch of the North, isn't really all that good unless it benefits her in some way and the Wizard of Oz will stop an nothing to remain in control of Oz.

Maguire has told Elphaba's story in great detail...maybe a bit too much detail at times, especially for younger readers (which is where I found this book). Wicked was a very hard read, but worth it...probably even worth a second read, just because of all the details that I probably missed in the first read. Overall, I recommend the book and cannot wait to go see the musical!

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#4 Marked (Book 1) by PC and Kristin Cast: First off, I have to admit that I'm a sucker for vampire books, so I might be a bit biased.

Unlike most vampire novels, Cast's vampyres are not created in the usual manner such as being bitten by another. Instead, after being "marked" by a tracker - with a dark blue outline of a crescent moon on the forehead, a fledgling vampyre is created simply by biological changes going on in their body. The change occurs over a period of four years, during which time the vampyre leaves their family and friends and into the House of Night. There they will learn everything they need to know to prepare for their new life as a vampyre or their bodies will reject the change and they will die.

Zoey was at school, dealing with teenager issues when she was marked. Her mother and WAY over-the-top, legalistic, Christian-like stepfather freaked out about this and she ran away to the home of her Cherokee Grandma, looking for comfort and acceptance. While looking for her grandma, she had a vision of the Vampyre Goddess Nyx speaking to her and telling her she had a special purpose - she was to be Nyx's eyes and ears. When she awoke from that, the Mark on her forehead was completely filled in, as it is usually only on adult vampyres. There is much about Zoey, the friends and family that she left behind, the friends and enemies that she makes, and the happenings at the House of Night to read about, but I won't share so that I don't ruin the book for any of you who want to read it.

This book was a very easy read and I really liked it. So much so that I was very happy to have the sequel, Betrayed, which I'm starting tonight.

Mark Lee's Summer Reading Club | Week 0

2008-06-07T23:03:00.000-05:00

These are the last two books that I've read that we are being allowed to cheat and post as our "freebies". My two freebies that I just finished reading are:

1. The Spiderwick Chronicles (Books 1-5) by Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi: (Yes, I realize this is 5 books, not 1, but those of you who have read them will understand...they're kinda short books.)

In the first book we are introduced to the Grace children, the twins, Jared and Simon and their older sister, Mallory. They have moved with their newly divorced mother to the old, run-down, house that used to belong to their Uncle who was missing and their Aunt who is now in an institution. As they try to adjust to their new accommodations they discover a secret world populated by brownies, goblins, griffins, elves, and more. In the first book they meet Thimbletack, the family’s house brownie, who is mighty unhappy with the new occupants of his home, especially when Jared finds Arthur Spiderwick’s Field Guide. The Field Guide contains all of Arthur ’s observations on magical creatures, which could endanger all of the faerie world if it fell into the wrong hands.

Over the course of the rest of the books, the children learn the family secrets and how to make their way among the faeries through a series of adventures ending with a quest to save not only themselves and all of the good creatures of the faerie world, but all of the non-magical world as well.

For a set of Young Adult books, they were entertaining. The illustrations of the fairy-tale creatures and characters were very well done and really brought the characters to life...nothing like helping your imagination along. It was definitely written in a simple enough form for kids to read, so you don't need a dictionary to help you out with any words. Not too scary for pre-teen readers, but probably a bit much for younger ages. I really enjoyed reading them and cannot wait for my girls to be old enough to enjoy them as well.

Sidenote: The books are SO much better than the movie. I thought the movie was good, but it was annoying because the changed from the books way too much!

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2. Beyond the Spiderwick Chronicles: The Nixie's Song (Book 1) by Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi: A great follow-up to the original Chronicles, The Nixie's Song takes readers...beyond the Spiderwick Chronicles. :0)

This first book introduces us to Nick Vargas and his family. Nick's father develops subdivisions, so they move around a lot. It's been a calm life for Nick and his older brother, until dad goes and does the unthinkable, he remarries. Now Nick has to give up his room to his new stepsister, Laurie. Laurie's a bit odd. She collects books and drawings about faeries. She knows they exist, because she's read The Spiderwick Chronicles, and she even has her own copy of The Field Guide. She knows how to see faeries, but hasn't been fortunate enough to actually have it happen.

All that is about to change when Nick finds a four-leaf clover, which, unknown to him, gives him the "Sight" to see things no one else can see, not even Laurie, who is so jealous. Thankfully they can share the clover which allows them to share the sight. What they end up seeing is an injured nixie, a water faerie, who has been cut off from the river she shared with her sisters and must now reside in the neighborhood's man-made lake.

The nixie, Taloa, binds Nick and Laurie into an agreement to find out what happened to her sisters. What Nick and Laurie find instead is a giant that has more danger to it than just its size. Soon, Nick and Laurie find themselves in need of help from somebody who's had a lot more experience with faeries than they have, which leads to some amusing and surprising encounters with some familiar characters.

This book is enjoyable, not only for those who have read the Chronicles, but for newcomers as well. Not quite as good as the original Chronicles, but still worth reading. I'm hoping that the plot develops into something a bit better as this new series continues. I'm looking forward to the second book coming out in September so I can continue on with the story...I hate being left hanging!

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All posts related to Mark Lee's Summer Reading Club will be found here. Books that I haven't read yet, but am hoping to can be found in the right hand column of this blog.

My summer reading list is in the right hand column on the blog. I'm sure it will grow and change, but that's it for right now. :0) By the way, thanks Mark for putting this all together!

Stampin Up! Stamps

2008-01-01T20:30:00.003-06:00

Berry Christmas
Best Yet
Botanical Blooms
Bugs & Kisses
Cheep Talk
Darling Dots
Doodle This
Embrace Life
Full of Life
Halloween Hoot
Heard from the Heart
Inspired by Nature
Just Like You*
Live Like You Mean It
Love Bug
Merci
Out of the Box
Owl Together Now
Pocket Silhouettes
Pumpkin Patch
Punches Three
Seeing Spots
Short and Sweet
Snow Buddies
Sprinkles
Sweet Dreams*
Sweet Shapes*
Think Happy Thoughts
Trendy Trees
Watercolor Trio (clear mount)
Whimsical Words (clear mount)
Wonderful Watercolors
You and Moi
Zoofari
(*=retired)

Picture this!

2007-08-31T09:53:00.001-05:00

Kimberly Smoot came up from Springfield the other day to visit and take our family pictures. Her pictures rock - this was just a sneek peak - cannot wait to see the rest! Watch for more pictures to be posted soon!

Happy Independence Day!

2007-07-04T23:27:00.000-05:00

Lots of fun down at the Peoria Riverfront!

...and relaxation to!

Mawma and Bella

Lili's belly.

Blowing kisses...

Lili attacking Daddy!

Look at those piggy tails!

Yo ho, yo ho, a Pirate's life for me...

2007-05-25T11:04:00.000-05:00

POTC3...are you wondering if it was worth seeing? Well, wonder no longer, go see it! The movie had everything...action, drama, comedy, love, and beautiful scenery...and of course Johnny Depp, isn't that enough?

We arrived about 7:15pm for the 8:00 showing and the theater was already mostly full. Good thing we didn't wait any later or we probably would have had to sit separately. I'll try not to give too much away, but be forewarned, this may contain some spoilers...

The movie opened with the laws that Beckett imposed or suspended being read and a line of men, women, and children waiting to hang at the gallows. Beckett has decided to rid the world of pirates and anyone willing to help or befriend a pirate in any way that he can. The end of the opening, when the boy starts singing and everyone joins in and then when he is hung and his coin drops and the opening title is displayed...awesome opening that displays how evil Beckett has become. Okay, bring on the movie.

Elizabeth is navigating a small boat through a crowded village in China, singing a nice little pirate song. Upon reaching her destination, she meets up with some friendly Chinese pirates and then is joined by Barbossa. While trying to avoid being seen by Beckett's soldiers, they continue through the village to meet up with one of the Pirate lords, Sao Feng. It's humerous seeing just how many weapons that Swan can carry on her at once. Okay, to sum up the rest of this scene, Turner was captured, there's a spy, a fight breaks out, Jack the monkey gets to blow things up, Turner makes a deal with Feng to get one of his boats and a crew, and they all head out to save Jack from Davy Jones' locker.

Skip to the next scene with Captain Jack Sparrow and his interesting crew aboard the Black Pearl. Funny, funny, funny! Ok, so now Jack is apparently crazy-er...and not invited to the garden party either. So, he's trying to get the Pearl from the middle of the dessert to the sea...not too easy to do, but this is Jack, so of course, he does it. When Barbossa and the gang finally find Jack, and finally convince him that they're not just hallucinations, the fill him in on what Beckett has done and that a meeting of the Pirate lords has been called.

After Sparrow and the rest of the crew get back to reality comes the real fun. Beckett sets up a deal with Jack that will allow him to take Davy Jones place as the captain of the Flying Dutchman, Wil Turner forms a deal with Beckett that will allow him to free his father from Davy's crew, Elizabeth is captured and meets up with Bootstrap who now has some form of amnesia, Norrington helps Elizabeth and her crew escape only to have Bootstrap kill him before he can leave as well, we meet the Pirate lords as well as Teague, Jack's father, and his mother, and Elizabeth becomes the Pirate king and declares war on Beckett.

We also get more details on the story of Davy Jones and his romance with Calypso (Tia Dalma) and there's a great scene with Jones and Dalma while she's in the brig of the Pearl. You could really sense the feelings of both characters, and when she puts her hand on his face and he becomes a man again....just wow. This one brief scene made up for the fact that Tia's character didn't really get explained in POTC2.

So, with Beckett's fleet on the horizon, the Flying Dutchman surfaces and battles with the Pearl. While Sparrow and Jones engage in their own sword fight, the crews of each ship fight it out. During the fighting, Wil and Elizabeth take a moment to have Barbossa perform a marriage ceremony. All the chaos and fighting around them seems to disappear when they finally get to kiss.

Sidenote...one of the best lines in the movie...this was actually hard to pick because there were so many great lines, but Jack has just done his cannon trick and is escaping through the air from the Endeavour to the Pearl...Beckett asks the sailor how soon they can start after the Pearl and then the Endeavour's mast snaps in the background, the sailor, looking in awe, says to Beckett "Do you think he plans it all out or just makes it up as he goes along?"

Anyway, Jack's plan is to stab the heart of Davy Jones so that he can take his place and sail the seas for eternity, but after Wil is stabbed by Davy, he realizes that the only way he can save Wil is to give up what he truly wanted and to let Wil stab the heart and save his life. (Yes, I cried.) Wil then becomes Captain of the Flying Dutchman, human crew and all, and takes over Davy's duties of helping those who died at sea cross over to the other side.

The Pearl and the Dutchman then team up on each side of Beckett's ship and blow it to smithereens. This scene is quite amazing. Beckett, large ego and all, walks along the ship as it blows up around him, finally ending in his death.

Elizabeth leaves the Pearl and she and Wil are on a beautiful island before Wil has to leave to fulfill his duties on the Dutchman. He leaves his heart, which he says has always belonged to her, with Elizabeth to guard and sails off into the sunset, disappearing with a green flash. Yes, I cried again.

Cut to Jack trying to smooth talk a couple of ladies into taking a ride on the pearl....er, but why's his ship out at sea? Barbossa stole the Pearl again with the map and plans to find the Fountain of Youth, only to find out that Jack removed the center of the map and will be tracking it down himself in his little row boat.

Roll the credits...but don't leave just yet, there's a short clip that takes place 10 years down the road (it actually feels like 10 years after all the credits too!) and don't forget..."keep a weather eye on the horizon."

Overall, I loved the movie. Bring on POTC4!

POTC3...did you forget? It's almost time!

2007-05-08T09:01:00.000-05:00

Ahoy, Maties! How could it have slipped yar mind? Well, it hasn't slipped mine, and we now officially have our tickets to see POTC: At World's End on Thursday, May 24th!...that's right, not the 25th! They're having one showing, 8pm on the 24th, at select area theaters and our area is one of them. YEAH!
In any case, we'll be sitting in a dark movie theater watching Johnny, Oralando and Kiera dressed as pirates in an awesome movie one day before many other people will be! Now, when to schedule to Pirate's marathon to refresh our memories from the first two...hmmmmm...

Spring has sprung!

2007-04-27T14:51:00.000-05:00

Today Mommy and Bella went to Chuck E. Cheese to play for a while, then went back to Papa and Mama Myers house to play. Papa watched Lili while we were at Chuck E. Cheese. It was such a beautiful day today that we decided to play outside for a little while.

While we were playing, we found this cute, little toad. He kept hopping when Lili was trying to catch him. She thought it was quite funny. Bella even enjoyed carrying him around for a short time before we let him go so he could go take a nap.

Lili also discovered how much fun dandelion seeds could be. She liked to hit them with her hands and watch them fly.

Before we went in for a snack, we found this baby "Anaconda"...or perhaps it's just a Garter Snake...either way, Papa didn't want anything to do with it, so he and Lili headed for the house while Bella chased him around. We watched him slither through the grass, climb through the Lilac bush, and quickly slither over the driveway and under the evergreen tree so he could go hide...he was afraid of Papa too!

Are you a good egg or a bad egg?...

2007-04-11T17:02:00.000-05:00

I'm thinking these two are two of the cutest bad eggs I've seen around!

I really want to change...

2007-03-21T14:33:00.000-05:00

The small groups have started at Harvest and we're working through the book "I want to change...so, help me God" by Pastor James MacDonald. Only a few chapters into the book and wow - it definately doesn't give you that warm-fuzzy feeling all over. James hits you with several hard questions and challenges.

Everybody knows what it is to struggle with sin – whether you want to admit it or not. Well, this book is telling you to admit it! At different times in our lives, we all try and fail, we all fall and get up again, only to fall again and feel discouraged.

For the good that I want to do, I do not; but I practice the very evil that I don’t want to do.

(Romans 7:19)

It's so easy to fall back into old ways, that's why we need to ask God to help us.

Do I really want to change? Yikes...what a question.

Well, yes, I want to change, but....

There are no buts...you have to commit to wanting to change. Change is difficult and you cannot do it with any of the hundreds of self-help books at Barnes & Noble...you have to allow God to change you.

Step one is repentance. Repentance involves our emotions and will, but it begins with a chance of mind. All sin has wrong thinking in it. In our sinful nature, we say...just this once...I can handle this...nobody else has to know. Repentance is putting those ugly lies that we tell ourselves out in the open and calling them what they are...SIN. When I sin, I deceive myself. When I repent, I turn my mind from that deception.

When repentance happens, it leads to two things:
First, confession. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). I have to see sin the way He sees it. That's a scary thing. You have to make things right on a verticle level first, you have to make it right between you and God.
The second thing that happens when I genuinely repent is I make restitution. Zacchaeus is the example James gives us for this (Luke 19:8). If you wrong someone, you must make it right with them. If you lie, go back to the person(s) and tell them the truth, if you steal from someone, give it back, if you hurt someone, physically or emotionally, ask for forgiveness. Do whatever can be done to make it right on the horizontal level after it is right between me and God. That’s restitution.

Both confession and restitution are easy to understand, terrifically difficult to do, but the only way to a right relationship with God. – James MacDonald

Just a few snapshots . . .

2007-03-03T20:31:00.000-06:00

Thought I'd share a few pictures I took the other day.

Once a week we go to McDonald's for a playgroup and lunch. The kids have so much fun. This is Bella and her friend Tyler. They are hilarious together!

Lili Jo is growning so fast...she's quite the little drama queen.

I think she knows I want her to smile and thinks it's funnier to make faces! This is her apparently telling me she's done.

The Glory of God

2007-02-21T16:21:00.000-06:00

God’s glory...His holy presence...it’s something so many people desire. But are they really ready for it?

Many prophets in the OT experienced God’s glory, and it wasn’t how many Christians today imagine it to be. When God entered a place, the ground shook, the Temple filled with smoke and people fell down in fear...YIKES! Isaiah was no exception. When struck with the presence and glory of God, Isaiah cried, “Woe to me! I am ruined for I am a man of unclean lips.” He recognized the sinfulness of his soul and the awesomeness of God.

What would happen if we were met with the presence of the God? Thankfully, God will look upon us and see the blood of his son, but still the presence of God changes people.

2 Corinthians 3:17-18 “We, with unveiled faces, all reflect the Lord’s glory and are being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory…”

I want to be like Jesus, but I’m so far from looking anything like Him. On some days I really wonder if there is any resemblance and if He’d recognize me as his child.

A closer relationship with Him brings change...Maybe that’s my problem. I’m not changed because I don’t sit long enough in the presence of the One who can change me. I know what quiet time is, but do I do it?

I found this quote that sums it up nicely: “Nothing so invigorates our souls, so ravishes our hearts, so diminishes our anxieties, and so ennobles our existence as being supremely preoccupied with God’s greatness and presence. This is what you and I were made for.” Dwight Edwards

So how do I find the time to sit in God’s presence and absorb His glory when I’m surrounded by “stuff” to do and little girls to take care of? We all can’t be monks or nuns, called to hours of isolation and communion with God. So how can a normal person, a stressed-out, busy mom experience the glory of God in her daily life? I’m still trying to figure out this answer.

Father, I want so much for your glory to be present in my life, especially in my home and in my parenting. Help me find the time and desire to spend it with you so I can be filled with your glory so others will be drawn to you.

Worship the Lord God Almighty!

2007-02-15T15:53:00.000-06:00

Lord, you are more awesome than I can even imagine and I give you praise. For the day and the sun...and the snow (if I have to)...and the ability to enjoy one more day in your presence.

I've been studying a bit on worship, and what I've found is that I need to worship God not because of what He does for me, but for who He is!

In the Old and New Testament, people who worshiped God first before facing the enemy. Gideon, Elijah, Paul, Jesus to name a few. All worshiped God despite their circumstances and God moved!

So, I need to praise Him in the middle of my circumstances, instead of complaining about them. I’m getting better at this. Instead of focusing on my problems, I’m trying to visualize them as I know God wants them to be. And it really has changed my attitude about the situation, when I do it.

That’s the toughest part. Remembering to praise God and thank Him for what I know He will eventually accomplish. I have no idea when He will bring certain things to pass, but I do know if I focus on the future, the will of God, it will happen.

So if I start to stray from this thinking. If I focus on my current set of circumstances, instead of worshiping God, I give you permission to give me a whop upside the head and remind me of my words.

Worship God for who He is despite my current need.

That’s what I’m trying to do. What about you?

Turning one...

2007-01-31T20:34:00.000-06:00

Lili Jo's birthday came and went. I cannot believe that she is one already! It seems like just the other day that we were making trips to and from St. Francis to visit her in the NICU. I'm so glad it really wasn't just the other day!

We had her birthday party at Papa and Mawma Myers house.

We decided upon a Mickey Mouse theme, once again my gift of picking a theme that you cannot find decorations for was visible. Mawma Sheila made two beautiful cakes, one of which Lili ate a few small bites of.

She opened several great gifts...with a little help from big sister Bella and cousin Isaiah.

By the time the party was over, she was exhausted
and could barely keep her eyes open. I'm sure,
had she been more awake, she would have devoured
the cake.

Thanks to everyone who made Lili's first birthday so wonderful!

A night in the cold...

2007-01-19T20:45:00.000-06:00

One Event Program + Monsters, Inc hardhat... ... ... ... ...$10.00

One bag of cotton candy + Monsters, Inc hardhat... ... ...$10.00

One Boo doll with costume... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... $26.00

One Monsters, Inc T-shirt, size 6... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...$16.00

One picture with Mike W. and a magnet frame... ... ... ...$12.00

Two Mike mugs filled with an icey... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... $20.00

Two Mike W. straw/spoons... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .$4.00

The look on her face while watching the Mike and Sully skate on the ice... ... ...PRICELESS!

2007...time flies!

2007-01-01T16:51:00.000-06:00

Wow, another year...2006 is now history and we've begun 2007!

If you’re like most people, you make resolutions each new year's day, only to find by the end of January (or the end of the week!), you’ve already forgotten about it. And I sit here wondering to myself, why do we fail so miserably at our resolutions? Well, why did you pick...enter your resolution here....to be your goal for this year? I believe, in part, it could be our heart motive behind those resolutions.

Without a doubt, the most common resolution we hear about is losing weight. With obesity on the rise in America, one would think this would be a good resolution to stick to; but it’s difficult to break bad habits and start new, good habits...very difficult! So the resolution itself is good - but our heart attitude is off. We really want to lose the weight, but we don’t relish the hard work and effort that it takes to make that happen. I don't like to make New Year’s resolutions.

If I feel the Lord leading me to change or correct something, I don’t want to wait until New Year’s Day to put it into action. Am I always successful at everything the Lord tells me to change or to do? I wish I could say yes, but the truth is - No, I’m not. Why? Because I am not perfect and I am still a work in progress...I'm a sinner.

So what’s my point? For 2007, my resolution, or should I say goal so I make it past the end of this week, is to grow even deeper in my walk with the Lord. I want to know Him more fully and intimately. I have looked back on 2006 and while it’s been a blessed year, it’s also been very stressful at times. I find myself busier than I should be and that busyness has left me tired, stressed and not digging into the Word like I need to. I read my Bible - and I do pray and hear from the Lord, but it’s not as close a relationship as it should to be - and it’s my fault. I let life get in the way of what should always have been my first priority: my relationship with Christ.

Now, it wouldn’t kill me to lose about 25 or 30 pounds, do some more organizing in my home, take more time for relaxation, prayer and just quietness; but I know that the root of all the good things I want/need to do will come after I first seek God and put Him first above all else. My heart was seeking worldly things rather than pursuing a relationship with the One who will give me what I need...spiritual growth, and what I want...to lose weight, organize my life, etc. No wonder I am stressed and tired! I was trying to do all these things! I can only do all things through Christ who strengthens me, if I let Christ strengthen me. I was leaving out the important element in my plans: Christ!

The year 2007 is going to be a year of rest, less stress and spiritual growth for me. I know this is what God is calling me to - and without this step, nothing else will get done that I want. I must first do what I need to do.

Is God calling you to do something? Get your priorities in order and all else will come in God’s timing.

God bless you in 2007!

Christmas Wishes . . .

2006-12-22T09:02:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas from our family to yours...

I wish everyday could be like Christmas

2006-12-21T10:33:00.001-06:00

So, here we are, four days until Christmas...yikes! Is it really that close? I cannot believe that I don't have all the presents wrapped, I don't even have all my decorations put out for the season. Not that I want tons of snow, but a little dusting wouldn't hurt to get me back in to the swing of things. I just cannot feel Christmas when I'm walking around without a coat on outside...of course that could be why I have a cold....nah, just coincidence.

And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow,

stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so?

It came without ribbons. It came without tags.

It came without packages, boxes or bags.

And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore.

Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before.

What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store.

What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.

- Dr. Seuss, How the Grinch Stole Christmas

So, with all my bah-humbug, grinchiness going on, God reminded me that Christmas is not the decorations, not the presents (wrapped or still sitting in a bag waiting for the wrapping paper), it's not a beautiful, white blanket of snow covering the ground, it's not the cute Christmas cards you receive in your mail box each day...it's about Him...Christmas is in his birth, his life, his death and his resurrection. The meaning of Christmas is life, his life, not ours. It's so easy to get caught up in other things that we need to take the time to remember. We need to take the time to read the Christmas story to our kids and reread it for ourselves. We need to take the time to enjoy and share Christ with our friends and family.

I received this in an e-mail the other day and wanted to share it:

An Encounter with Santa

What if you encounter Santa right in your very own living room and you saw that he had tears in his eyes. His usual jolly manor was gone. I asked him "What are you doing?"

He answered me very simply: "TEACH THE CHILDREN"

I was puzzled; What did he mean? He anticipated my question, and with one quick movement brought forth a miniature toy bag from behind the tree.

As I stood bewildered, Santa said, "Teach the Children! Teach them the old meaning of Christmas. The meaning that now-a-days Christmas has forgotten."

Santa then reached in his bag and pulled out a FIR TREE and placed it before the mantle.
"Teach the children that the pure green color of the stately fir tree remains green all year round, depicting the everlasting hope of mankind, all the needles point heavenward, making it a symbol of man's thoughts turning toward heaven.'

He again reached into his bag and pulled out a brilliant STAR
"Teach the children that the star was the heavenly sign of promises long ago. God promised a savior for the world, and the star was the sign of fulfillment of His promise.''

He then reached into his bag and pulled out a CANDLE
"Teach the children that the candle symbolizes that Christ is the light of the world, and when we see this great light we are reminded of He who displaces the darkness."

Once again he reached into his bag and removed a WREATH and placed it on the tree.
"Teach the children that the wreath symbolizes the real nature of love. Real love never ceases. Love is one continuous round of affection."

He then pulled from his bag an ornament of himself.
"Teach the children that I, St. Nick, (Santa Claus) symbollize the generosity and good will we feel during the month of December."

He then brought out a HOLLY LEAF.
"Teach the children that the holly plant represents immortality. It represents the crown of thorns worn by our Savior. the red holly represents the blood shed by Him."

Next he pulled from his bag a GIFT and said,
"Teach the children that God so loved the world that HE gave HIS only begotten SON..." Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift.

He reached in again and pulled out an ANGEL
"Teach the children that it was the angels that heralded in the glorious news of the Savior's birth. the angels sang "Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace and good will toward men."

Suddenly I heard a soft twinkling sound, and from his bag he pulled out a BELL.
"Teach the children that as the lost sheep are found by the sound of the bell, it should ring mankind to the fold. the bell symbolizes guidance and return."

Santa looked back and was pleased. He looked back at me and I saw that the twinkle was back in his eyes.

He said, "Remember, teach the children the true meaning of Christmas and do not put me in the center, for I am but a humble servant of the One that is, and I bow down to worship HIM, our LORD, our GOD."

Now that I've rambled on and on, I better wrap things up...Have a very Merry Christmas! Enjoy every second of it, because it will be gone before you know it.

I wish every day could be like Christmas

And if I could have one wish come true

I wish every day could be, full of peace and harmony

I wish every day could be like Christmas, I do…

from "I wish everyday could be like Christmas"

If you were a reindeer....

2006-12-19T18:42:00.000-06:00

which of Santa's Reindeers are you?

I found this on someones site, thought it was quite cute.

As for me...

I am Rudolph

Sweet and shy, you tend to be happiest when you're making someone else happy.

Why You're Naughty: You sometimes stick that nose where it doesn't belong

Why You're Nice: Christmas would be a sad affair without you!

Which of Santa's Reindeer Are You?

POTC 3

2006-12-15T20:11:00.000-06:00

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End

Coming to a theater near you

May 25, 2007

Let the countdown begin!

You don't even want to know how excited I am about this!

...I hated how the ending of the second one completely left you hanging!!!! I wanna see more!

Why is the rum always gone?

DON'T PUSH THE RED BUTTON!

2006-11-15T22:52:00.000-06:00

Get more games like this at ArcadeZip!

I just had to borrow this when I saw it! It had me cracking up! I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!

live...LAUGH...love

Addicting Game!

2006-10-26T09:07:00.000-05:00

Ran across this game....I can't stop playing!
My high so far...Score 7397 with 80 squares!

www.fetchfido.co.uk/games/squares-2/squares-2.htm

2006-10-20T18:41:00.000-05:00

Last month we went to Springfield for an anniversary party for some really great friends of our, Kathy and Kyle. (Happy Anniversary! Love you both!)

While we were there, a good friend of mine, Ms. Kimberly Smoot (www.kimberlysmootphotography.com), took our family photo. This is the first family photo we've had done since December 2003! You'd think I could get them done a little more often than that, eh?

Welcome Autumn!

2006-10-05T23:48:00.000-05:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I love this time of year? I do, I do, I really, really do. The cool air...oh, wait. Yesterday it was 85 degrees outside! Isn't it October? But anyway, the cool air, the beautiful leaves, the gigantic moon that looks like it's so close you could reach up and touch it, there's just so much to love about Fall!

It's also a great time to catch a few pics of the girls...this one is for Uncle Kevin and Uncle Russ! Go Cards!

Cry Out To Jesus!

2006-09-29T08:58:00.000-05:00

Last night's concert was amazing.

HyperStatic Union opened up with a few songs. I hadn't really heard them before, but they weren't bad. I really need to hear them on cd to make a decision on if I really like them or not. Either way, they gave everyone a quick lesson on how to properly enjoy the funk. (You have to bob your head from front to back, not back to front – in case you were wondering.)

As "Ring of Fire" played, the David Crowder Band made their way onto the stage. ....what a loon! He's totally crazy. I was afraid I wouldn't know any of their songs, but I actually had. It was only a matter of time before they broke out into a hoedown and the sounds of "I Saw the Light" everyone was stomping their feet and clapping along. They were great, definately got the whole crowd going.

After a short intermission, Third Day took to the stage in an unconventional way. Rather than the typical loud entrance, Mac and Mark treated everyone to an acoustic version of "Blessed Assurance". Definately set the worshipful mood for the evening...and that's what the night was all about - worshipping God...with a little help from Third Day of course!

As the backdrop fell mid song, the rest of the band was revealed as they helped finish out "Blessed Assurance" in true rocker form with guitars blazing.

The band continued with songs like, "Keep On Shinin’," "Show Me Your Glory," and "Come On Back To Me." To show everyone how much fun they could have during a concert, they experimented with a little 80’s rock, a groovy mirror ball and even some "couples skating."

Mac spoke a little about the song, "Cry Out to Jesus" explaining how He will meet you – wherever you are. As they went into the song, I know I had a few tears in my eyes. Hearing this song live made the lyrics that much more powerful, surrounded by people who have probably all been through similar events and been hurt. It’s something that everyone in the audience could relate to – everyone is going through something and no matter where we are – God will meet us there.

I have seen Third Day four times now (October 18, 1997 with All Star United and Switchfoot at the Madison; November 21, 2002 with Michael W. Smith and Max Lucado at the Civic Center; August of 2003 at Great America; and this concert) and I've never been disappointed. If you haven't seen them, I suggest you make sure to get tickets to the next concert! I know I'll be there!

Movies Galore!

2006-08-21T10:10:00.001-05:00

Ok, so I've now typed up all of our movies to list online. Now everyone can see what we have in case they want to borrow something. For those interested, the list is in my links over in the left hand column...enjoy!

http://www.orangegeckodesigns.com/movies.htm

On a side note, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has been missing for quite some time now...anyone have it? I cannot for the life of me remember who we lent it to. Hopefully this list will keep the dvds a bit more organized! :0)

Robertson Movie Collection

1999-10-16T13:00:00.005-05:00

For friends and family who like to 'rent' from us!

Please notice that they are not all in alphabetical order - new movies we've gotten might just be added at the end.

10 Things I Hate About You
101 Dalmatians
101 Dalmatians (movie)
13 Going on 30
21
3:10 to Yuma
Alice in Wonderland
Aristocats, The
Armageddon
Atlantis: The Lost Empire
Atonement
Australia
Authur and the Invisibles
Backyardigans: It’s Great to be a Ghost
Backyardigans: Mission to Mars
Backyardigans: Super Spy
Backyardigans: The Snow Fort
Bambi
Barnyard
Batman (1)
Batman (2) Returns
Batman (3) Forever
Batman (4) & Robin
Batman Begins
Batman: The Dark Knight
Batman: The Movie (Special Edition from 1966)
Beautiful Mind, A
Beauty & the Beast
Because I Said So
Because of Winn-Dixie
Becoming Jane
Bed of Roses
Bedtime Stories
Bee Movie, The
Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey
Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure
Black Cauldron
Black Hawk Down
Blade
Blade II
Blue Elephant, The
Bolt
Bourne Identity, The
Bourne Supremacy, The
Bride Wars
Broken Arrow
Brother Bear
Brother Bear 2
Brother’s Grimm
Bruce Almighty
Bucket List, The
Bug’s Life, A
Care Bears: Journey to Joke-a-Lot
Cars
Casanova
Casper
Catch and Release
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Charlotte's Web
Cheaper by the Dozen
Cheaper by the Dozen II
Chicken Little
Chicken Run
Chipmunk Adventure, The
Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian
Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
Cinderella
Cinderella III
Classic Cartoons: Volumes 1 & 2
Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen (movie)
Count of Monte Cristo, The
Covenant, The
Crank
Cry Baby
Curious George (Movie)
Curious George: Collector Edition
Daredevil
Dawson’s Creek: Season 1
Dawson’s Creek: Season 2
Dawson’s Creek: Season 6
Devil Wears Prada, The
Divine Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood, The
Doodle Bops: Dance & Hop with the Doodle Bops
Doogle
Dora the Explorer: Big Sister Dora
Dora the Explorer: Dance to the Rescue
Dora the Explorer: Dora's Fairytale Adventure
Dora the Explorer: Undercover Dora
Down with Love
Dr. Deuss’ The Cat in the Hat
Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears A Who
Dr. Seuss’s ABC; I Can Read With My Eyes Shut!; and Mr. Brown Can Moo! Can You?
Dracula (Bram Stoker's)
Dracula 2000
Dukes of Hazard: Season 1
Dumbo
Edward Scissorhands
Elf
Elizabeth
Elizabethtown
Elmo in Grouchland, The Adventures of
Elmo’s World: Springtime Fun!
Elmo’s World: The Great Outdoors!
Elmo’s World: The Street We Live On
Elmopalooza
Emperor’s New Groove, The
Enchanted
Enemy at the Gates
Failure to Launch
Fairies
Fantasia
Fantasia 2000
Fantastic 4
Fantastic 4: Rise of the Silver Surfer
Feeling Minnesota
Finding Nemo
Flushed Away
Follow That Bird (Sesame Street)
Fool's Gold
Footloose
Fox and the Hound
Fraggle Rock: Where it all Began
From Hell
Georgia Rule
Gladiator
God of Wonders: the Praise Baby Collection
Good Boy!
Good Luck Chuck
Goonies
Grease
Green Mile, The
Gumbi Essentials
Hairspray
Hamlet
Hancock
Happily N'Ever After
Harry Potter (1) and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Harry Potter (2) and the Chamber of Secrets
Harry Potter (3) and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Harry Potter (4) and the Goblet of Fire
Harry Potter (5) and the Order of the Phoenix
Heathers
Hermie & Friends: Buzby the Misbehaving Bee
Hidalgo
High Crimes
Hitch
Home on the Range
Hoodwinked
Hook
Hotel for Dogs
How to Eat Fried Worms
How to Loose a Guy in 10 Days
How to Train Your Dragon
Ice Age
Igor
Illusionist, The
Imagination Movers, Stir It Up
Incredibles, The
Indiana Jones (1) and the Raiders of the Lost Ark
Indiana Jones (2) and the Temple of Doom
Indiana Jones (3) and the Last Crusade
Inkheart
Jo Jo’s Circus: Animal A Go-Go
Jo Jo’s Circus: Take A Bow
John Tucker Must Die
Joseph: King of Dreams
Jumper
Jungle Book, The
Just Cause
Just Like Heaven
Just My Luck
Kate & Leopold
Kid, The
Knight’s Tale, A
Labyrinth
Lady and the Tramp
Lake House, The
Last Unicorn, The
League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, The
Leap Frog: Letter Factory
Leap Frog: Math Circus
Legend
Legend of Sasquatch, The
License To Wed
Lion King
Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride
Little Einsteins: Team up for Adventure
Little Mermaid
Little Rascals, The
Looney Tunes: Spotlight Collection 4
Lord of the Rings 1: The Fellowship of the Ring
Lord of the Rings 2: The Two Towers
Lord of the Rings 3: Return of the King
Lost: Season 1
Madagascar
Man from Snowy River, The
Marley and Me
Matrix
Matrix Reloaded
Matrix Revolutions
McLintock!
Meet the Robinsons
Midsummer Night’s Dream, A
Miracle
Miss Congeniality
Monsters, Inc
Monty Python and the Holy Grail
Moulin Rouge
Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium
Mulan
Muppet Treasure Island
Muppets Take Manhattan, The
Muppets Wizard of Oz, The
Muppets: It’s a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie
Music and Lyrics
My Little Pony: A Very Minty Christmas
Nanny McPhee
National Treasure
National Treasure 2
Never Ending Story I & II, The
Night at the Museum
Nights in Rodanthe
No Reservations
Notebook, The
Now and Then
O
O Brother Where Art Thou
Ocean’s Eleven
Ocean’s Thirteen
Oliver and Company
One Night with the King
Othello
Other Boleyn Girl, The
Over the Hedge
Pacifier, The (movie)
Pan's Labyrinth
Patriot, The
Peanuts Holiday Collection: A Charlie Brown Christmas
Peanuts Holiday Collection: A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
Peanuts Holiday Collection: It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown
Pearl Harbor
Peter Pan
Peter Pan (Movie)
Phantom of the Opera, The
Pirates of the Caribbean 1: The Curse of the Black Pearl
Pirates of the Caribbean 2: Dead Man’s Chest
Pirates of the Caribbean 3: At World's End
Pocahontas
Pooh’s Grand Adventure: The Search for Christopher Robin
Pooh’s Heffalump Movie
Pond, The
Pretty Woman
Prince & Me, The
Princess Bride, The
PS I Love You
Puff the Magic Dragon
Pup Named Scooby-Doo (Complete 2nd, 3rd & 4th Seasons)
Puzzle Maker, The
Quigley Down Under
Racing Stripes
Ratatouille
Reign of Fire
Reign Over Me
Return to Me
Return to Snowy River
Riddick Trilogy:
Pitch Black, Dark Fury, & The Chronicles of Riddick
Robin Hood
Robinhood
Robots
Rock, The
Romeo & Juliet (William Shakespeare's)
Rookie, The
Rush Hour
S.W.A.T.
Sandlot, The
Save the Last Dance
Say Anything
Scooby Doo and the Legend of the Vampire
Scooby Doo and the Monster of Mexico
Scooby Doo and the Witch’s Ghost
Scooby Doo’s Original Mysteries
Secret World of Benjamin Bear, The
Sesame Street's What's the Name of that Song?
Shaggy Dog, The
Short Circuit
Shrek
Shrek 2
Shrek 3
Skulls
Sleeping Beauty
Sleepy Hollow
Sliding Doors
Smurfs, The (Season One, Volume One)
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Snow White and the Three Stooges
Snowy River: The McGregor Saga “The Race”
Spider Man
Spider Man 2
Star Wars I: The Phantom Menace
Star Wars II: Attack of the Clones
Star Wars III: Revenge of the Sith
Star Wars IV: A New Hope
Star Wars V: The Empire Strikes Back
Star Wars VI: Return of the Jedi
Stardust
Stuart Little
Sweet Home Alabama
Sword in the Stone, The
Tale of Despereaux, The
Tarzan II
Tennessee Tuxedo and His Tales, The Best of
Thomas and the Magic Railroad
Thr3e
Three Musketeers
Three Musketeers, The
Three Pigs and a Baby (Jim Henson’s)
Tigger Movie, The
Tom & Jerry: Blast off to Mars
Tom & Jerry: Shiver My Timbers
Tortoise -vs- Hare: The Rematch of the Century (Jim Henson’s)
Toy Story I & II
Transporter, The
Treasure Planet
Tristan & Isolde
Two Weeks Notice
Underdog (Movie)
Underdog Volume 1
V for Vendetta
Valkyrie
Varsity Blues
Veggie Tales: A Snoodle’s Tale
Veggie Tales: Are you my neighbor?
Veggie Tales: Big River Rescue
Veggie Tales: Dave & the Giant Pickle
Veggie Tales: Duke and the Great Pie War
Veggie Tales: Gideon Tuba Warrior
Veggie Tales: God Wants Me To Forgive Them?
Veggie Tales: Jonah: A Veggie Tales Movie
Veggie Tales: Josh & the Big Wall
Veggie Tales: King George & the Ducky
Veggie Tales: Larry Boy! & the Bad Apple
Veggie Tales: Larry Boy! & the Fib From Outer Space
Veggie Tales: Lord of the Beans
Veggie Tales: Madame Blueberry
Veggie Tales: Minnesota Cuke and the Search for Samson’s Hairbrush
Veggie Tales: Moe and the Big Exit
Veggie Tales: Rack, Shack, & Benny
Veggie Tales: Sheerluck Holmes and the Golden Ruler
Veggie Tales: The Ballad of Little Joe
Veggie Tales: The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything
Veggie Tales: Very Silly Sing-a-long
Veggie Tales: Where’s God When I’m S-scared?
Veggie Tales: Wonderful Wizard of Ha's
Walk to Remember, A
Wall-E
Wedding Date, The
Wild Hogs
Wild, The
Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
Winnie the Pooh, The Many Adventures of
Wizard of Oz, The
Wow! Wow! Wubbzy: A Tale of Tails
X III: The Last Stand
X-Men
X-Men: X2

Last updated 07/03/09