Sunday, January 31, 2010

My First Giveaway

This is something that I have been contemplating since I first began blogging. There are some milestones in blogging that others seem to celebrate with a giveaway. Whether it's a blogiversary or reaching a certain number of posts, bloggers have giveaways.

First, I had to decide what milestone to celebrate. The anniversary of blogging came and went. I haven't quite reached my 200th post. Yet, I have felt led to do a giveaway. So.....

We're going to celebrate L.O.V.E.! That's right. I'm honoring my wonderful husband and with Valentine's Day quickly approaching what better way to celebrate amore than giving away this:

 
Are you familiar with this book? I was introduced to this book by my now husband when we were dating. He purchased a copy for both of us. He insisted we read and discuss it together. I'm so thankful we did that. It has truly blessed us. This book taught me about my needs, but more importantly about his needs. The things that are most important to him. I'm also going to add some Valentine's Day goodies that will be a surprise. 

How to enter:

For one entry: Leave me a comment that you are or have become a follower of my blog.

For two entries: Leave me a separate comment that you blogged about this giveaway.

For three entries: Leave me another comment telling me your most memorable Valentine's Day.

That's it! How simple is that?! So hurry up and enter. The giveaway ends February 5. The winner will be announced next Sunday, February 7. That's right....Superbowl Sunday!!! Go Colts. 
Thanks to all of you loyal readers out there and all the support that you have been sending my way. You are more than a blessing and I’m so grateful. This is just a small token to show my appreciation toward you. You are all a source of encouragement for me. It’s been amazing getting to know so many of you. Thanks for entering the giveaway and good luck to all!

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Ephesians 4:2 (NIV) Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Saturday, January 30, 2010

TSMSS - 1/30/10



It's Then Sings My Soul Saturday when I join with Amy of Signs, Miracles and Wonders.




This is another song that goes along with the Throne Trip Tuesdays message this week. I must surrender all to God and be obedient to Him. He takes care of the consequences when I surrender to Him today, This Day! Praises to His wonderful name.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

James 4:10 (NIV) Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

Friday, January 29, 2010

The Secret's in the Sauce

Name that movie! Jessica Landy played in it. So did Kathy Bates. It's one of my favorite movies. It's a story about friendship. Do you know it? If you haven't guessed it yet. The movie is Fried Green Tomatoes.
It's a must see. If you haven't seen it, rent it! This line is said about the bbq sauce. The bbq sauce is so good, you'll eat just about anything covered in it. lol

My secret sauce is for stir-fry. This is the basic sauce. Once you get this recipe "down" you can make adjustments to your own taste. We like our sauce a bit spicier, so we add some heat in the beginning when sauteing the onions and other vegetables, and in the sauce.  I rarely follow the recipe any more. I just get all the ingredients I'm going to use out on the counter and start pouring them in a small mixing bowl. Also, my hubby likes LOTS of sauce, so I add extra broth and corn starch (for thickener). All of these ingredients can be found at any well-stocked grocery stores in the International Foods isle.

This recipe is the basic stir-fry template - it has the familiar look and flavors of a traditional stir-fry. The method is pretty standard but has a few things to be aware of.

First, make the sauce before you prepare anything else. The sauce is key to providing the flavor character. A second point is that you can use a skillet instead of a wok. But, a skillet gets much hotter than a wok would. Add the aromatics near the end of the recipe. If added in the beginning they could burn which will cause them to be bitter. Finally, the aromatics and marinade are the same...regardless of what recipe you are using. Meats and vegetables are interchangeable. Use what you have on hand and what is available in your area or in season. I've even used a precooked roasted chicken to speed up cooking time.

After you have prepared your sauce, cut your vegetables, meat, and mince or grate the aromatics. I almost always use fresh ginger, garlic, green onions, and a sweet yellow onion or shallots.  You can also use chilies, spices, citrus peel, and curry flavorings. Start with a tablespoon or two of the fresh ginger and garlic. Add to suit your taste.

Stir-Fry Meat Marinade: Combine
1 T cornstarch
1 T dry sherry
1 egg white
1/4 t kosher salt

This marinade is more for browning than flavoring. If you have a tough, bland cut of meat, first tenderize it with a highly seasoned, acidic marinade.

Hot Hoisin Sauce:
3 T dry sherry
3 T rice wine vinegar
3 T hoisin sauce
3 T low-sodium soy sauce
4 t chili garlic sauce
1 T brown sugar
1 t cornstarch
1/4 t kosher salt

I also add a 1/4 to 1/2 cup of broth mixed with a heaping tablespoon cornstarch. This gives you plenty of thick sauce.

Prepare aromatics and marinade. Add meat to marinade and let stand at least 5 minutes. Heat peanut or canola oil in skillet over high heat until lightly smoking. Add meat. stir-fry 2 minutes or until browned but slightly pink; remove.
Add hard vegetables (broccolini, onions); stir-fry 2 minutes.
Add carronts, mushrooms, and water chestnuts; stir-fry 1 minute.
Add aromatics and reserved meat; stir-fry 1 minute to heat through.
Stir in the sauce.; cook 1 minute or unti sauce thickens.
Serve with noodles, rice, or over spinach.

Other flavorings include sesame oil, white wine vinegar, orange juice, mandarin oranges, honey, lemons, bell peppers, tomatoes, green beans, sprouts. Really, the possibilities are endless.

I must give credit to Cuisine at Home magazine. That is where the basic recipe comes from. When I need a fresh idea and want to switch things up or try something completely different, I refer to it.

So, give this delicious recipe a try today, This Day. You and your family will be glad you did.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV) 19Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Yes, It's Disturbing

What has me upset? I'm so glad you asked. Are you familiar with the story of Morgan Harrington? She and several friends went to a Metallica concert. This concert was in October 2009. Morgan separated from her friends never to be seen from again. Until Tuesday, January 26, 2010. This is when her body was located on a farm.

Yes, that is disturbing. But that's not what has me so upset. What disturbs me more is her dad's statement. Dan Harrington, Morgan's father, issued a statement: "Morgan's mother, Gil, and I are overwhelmingly saddened by yesterday's discovery, but we are also relieved because our questions can now be answered and we can give our daughter a proper burial." "We know that because of the good life Morgan led and the love she created for everyone around her, she is now in a safer, better place."

Really? What place would that be? There is no mention of her faith. No mention of her being with Jesus. No mention that she knew Him. I'm not saying that she didn't come face-to-face with Jesus. But I find it extremely disturbing that too many people are under the misconception that: I live a "good life." I "love" others.  Surely I will be in a "safer place." How good is good enough? How much love do you extend to others to qualify you to be in a safer place?

The Bible clearly states:

There is none righteous, no not one. (Romans 3:10) That tells me that no matter how good I think I am, I am not good enough.

For by grace are you saved, through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is a gift from God, not of works lest anyone should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)  This tells me that I can not work my way, pay my way, love my way into God's graces. I must accept His gift. But what is the gift?

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) Let me rephrase this one: For God so loved SusanD that He gave His only Son, Jesus so that SusanD should not perish but live forever with Him. Put your name where I inserted mine and reread that sentence.

The question that follows is: how do I accept the Gift? It is so easy. We try to make it hard, but it is easy peasy. If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9) If you believe it, say it! Do it today, This Day!

Peace and Joy,
Susan

2 Corinthians 6:2 (NKJV) 2 For He says: “In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Random Dozen - 1/27/10


1. How good are you at delaying gratification? Not!

2. Maybe a marshmallow wouldn't be too difficult a temptation for you. What food (or anything else) would be most tempting? It depends on what I'm craving at the time. Usually, chocolate.

3. On a scale of 1-10 (10 being saintly) how patient are you? hahahaha that's a good one. Did you read #1?

4. Have you ever waited for something in life only to be disappointed upon realization of the goal/object/etc.? Who hasn't?

5. Are you a person who takes shortcuts? Absolutely! If there's an easier, faster way to do something, I'm all about it.

6. Which line is hardest to wait in? At the amusement park to get on ride.

7. Did you wait to discover the gender of your unborn child until its birth? Yep!

8. Are you more patient with children or the elderly? I'm good with both, really.(Wait a minute. Does that mean I have to go back and change my answer to #1 and #3?)


9. Did you ever sneak a peek at a present? Yep...twice. Once as a youth, once as an adult.

10. What is the longest you've ever waited for anything? I waited my whole life for my wonderful husband!

11. Who has more patience, you or your significant other? He has me beat, hands down.

12. Which of the following songs about waiting is your pick for the best? (OK, you may substitute another, if you like.)

A) Anticipation by Carly Simon
B) The Waiting by Tom Petty
C) Right Here Waiting for You by Richard Marx
D) Wait for Me by Rebecca St. James
Let's see a show of hands.....who, besides me, had to go to youtube to play at least one of these songs cause you didn't know all of them? Surely, I'm not the only one!!! I can see a little of me in each of them. Depending on the circumstance.

 If you'd like to participate with your own answers, just hop on over to Lid's. Thanks for stopping by today.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Isaiah 40:31 (NKJV)31 But those who wait on the LORD  Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Throne Trip Tuesdays - 1/26/10



Welcome to Throne Trip Tuesdays. This is the day each week when I share with you what I have learned, what I am learning, or what I am re-learning while visiting with God. These last few weeks, I've been sharing with you how God is dealing with me about trusting Him. He is healing me of long time hurts and demonstrating His unconditional love.

While He is healing hurts, He is also challenging me to obedience. Through this study, I have learned that God is responsible for the consequences when I am obedient. I am responsible for the consequences when I am disobedient. So what is the motivation for the choices I make? Fear? Other peoples opinions? Maybe instant gratification completely disregarding the consequences is the driving force. Whatever the motivation, the decisions I make have a direct impact on the results.

So what happens when I follow my own path? God's word is pretty clear on this. Take Galatians 6:7 for example:  Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.This is a pretty basic principle. I would be so surprised if I planted corn and pumpkins came up. Why would I think this principle worked differently in other areas? It does not. Every action has results. If I plant to please God and be obedient to Him, I will reap joy, everlasting life, and an abundance of blessing.

My best course of action is to make my decisions based on the will and word of God. To have life abundantly, I must:
  • believe that God is absolutely sovereign
  • believe that I can trust God
  • mix my trust in Him with my love for Him
  • listen to Him
  • have courage even in conflict
  • be willing to live in full surrender
Therefore, my beloved peeps, be strong and courageous. There are rewards for obeying God. What are they? Success, serenity, calmness, peace, and joy. But more than that, I will have growth in my Christian life. I am starting today, This Day. Won't you join me?

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Romans 8:28 (NIV) 28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Monday, January 25, 2010

Monday Musing - Cookie Calories

Example of an American grocery store aisle.Image via Wikipedia
A husband took his young daughter to the grocery store to help him buy groceries. In addition to the healthy items on his wife's carefully prepared list, the two of them returned home with a package of sugar-filled cookies.

"Why in the world did you buy those?" his wife asked. "You know they aren't good for you!"

"Oh, but don't worry, honey, these cookies have one-third less calories than usual in them," the husband replied.

The wife looked all over the package but couldn't find any claim to that fact, so she asked, "What makes you think that?"

"We ate about a third of the box on the way home."



Peace and Joy,
Susan



(Copyright Gospel Communications International, Inc - www.reverendfun.com)


Saturday, January 23, 2010

TSMSS - 1/23/10



It's Then Sings My Soul Saturday when I join with Amy of Signs, Miracles and Wonders.

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This song clearly go along with the messages of Throne Trip Tuesdays and how God is dealing with me right now. He is by my side today, This Day! Praises to His wonderful name.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Deuteronomy 31:8 (NKJV)  And the LORD, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.”

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Thankful Thursday - 1/21/10

Thankful Thursday at Truth 4 the Journey

Welcome to another Thankful Thursday. This is the day each week that I join Sonya at Truth 4 the Journey to list five things that I'm thankful for. They can be serious or silly, big or small because God honors them all.

1) I'm thankful for my wonderful husband. This is the weekend he switches days off. Plus he's taking an extra day off so we're going to have FIVE WHOLE DAYS off in a row together. That just doesn't happen often. Can you tell I'm just a little excited?

2) I'm so thankful for the warmer weather. It's been in the low to mid 50s for several days.

3) I'm also thankful that it's supposed to rain several times over the next few days. That means the salt and cinders will be washed away and I'll be riding my scooter soon.

4) I'm thankful for spending time with the grand-boy over the weekend. He's such a good little fella who loves family and has a heart and desire for God's word.

5) I'm thankful for the mp3 player my wonderful husband gave me for Christmas. I've loaded a ton of songs on it. Plus, I've loaded some workouts and dance music to bump up my walking and workouts.

What are you thankful for today, This Day? Please leave me a comment and be sure to hop on over to Sonya's to see how God is blessings others.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

James 1:2-3 (NIV) 2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Random Dozen - 01/20/10



1. So I was thinking about how Jon Bon Jovi never seems to age much. His hair is smaller nowadays, but he still manages to look like a boy somehow. And then that made me think of the story of Dorian Gray. Question: If you physically lock in one age for yourself, which would you choose and why? Between 35 and 40. Really? Yep! I was in the best shape and had the best shape back then. 

2. What is the best dish that you cook or bake (your piece de resistance?) Stir-Fry! The secret's in the sauce.

3. When you feel blue, what is one strategy you use to help yourself back to normal? Get with one of my pals for an evening of laughter. How can you feel blue when you're laughing?

4. When was the last time you danced in public? December 2009. ahaha My group's final project was a teaching demonstration and we taught our class the Copperhead Road line dance.

5. Do you consider yourself a realist or dreamer? Definitely a realist.

6. As a parent, what is one thing that you have done well? Shown the girl that no matter what, there is nothing that cannot be worked out and in spite of everything, she is very loved.

7. Which is your favorite character on the Andy Griffith show? Aint B! She had a kind word for everyone and you just knew she was a great cook.

8. On a scale of 1-10, how much do you know about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.? Probably only about a 2.

9. Have you never been mellow? Have you never tried … to find a comfort from in side you? (Sorry, Jorge was singing that song just now, and it just seemed to be perfect timing as I was creating this week’s questions.) REAL question: What is your #1 driving pet peeve? I have two (sorry) that's just me. 1) People who attempt to finish your sentence for you; and 2) people who chew food with their mouth open. 

Oh....I see....#1 "driving" pet peeve. hahahaha I have two of those too! 1) )People who text while driving. Seriously, how can your eyes be on the road if they are on your phone??!!!?! 2) People who run red lights. Really! If it turned yellow two cars in front of you, it's going to turn red when you get to the line.....wait till the next green light. What can be so stinkin important that you're willing to risk injury....or injure someone else?!?!?!


10. Which color best represents your mood today? Care to elaborate? Kaleidoscope. I'm all over the map today.

11. If your spouse were an animal, which would he/she be? I'm going with a bear. He's gentle and easy as long as he's not provoked.

12. What activity takes up the bulk of your time on an average day? Work! 


Last week, many of you asked about the sweet/spicy sweet potatoes and chocolate skittles. Here's what the Skittles package looks like so you'll have an easier time finding them. I'll get the recipe posted for the sweet potatoes.





Thanks, Linda, for hosting this every week. If you'd like to participate, hop on over to 2nd Cup of Coffee and join in.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Matthew 7:12 (NIV) So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Throne Trip Tuesdays - 1/19/10



Welcome to Throne Trip Tuesdays. This is the day each week when I share with you what I have learned, what I am learning, or what I am re-learning while visiting with God. Oh yes, the re-learning those are the toughest for me. Take for instance the lesson of trusting God and that He will never leave nor forsake me. You can read more about that here.But how did these fears come about?

My trust and fear issues are directly related to my mom. My biological mom.The one who abandoned me a long time ago and the one who knows practically nothing about me or my life now. There will be a trigger and suddenly a memory flashes across the screen of my mind.

I don't have very many memories of her as a child prior to her leaving. And the ones I do have aren't that great. If I let my mind dwell on the gaping hole she left in my heart, I get sad even to this day.

God has been so good to help me see that I am not the child of a broken parent any longer- that I am a child of God. I am loved. I am treasured. I am wanted. But I can tell you, it has been a long and arduous journey. One that continues to this day. Sometimes those nagging thoughts creep back into the crevices of my heart and I start wondering all over again: why didn't my mom love me? or if my mom didn't love me how could anyone else?

I don't share this with you so you will feel sorry for me. It is because of those experiences that I am a strong, resilient woman. I tell you this to show that no matter what your circumstance God can reach down and heal you; He can scoop you up in His arms and comfort you; He can and He does.

Is there an area in your life that needs healing? God desires to meet you there and comfort you today, This Day. Just reach out and take His hand.....He is waiting for you.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Deuteronomy 31:6 (NKJV) 6 Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

Monday, January 18, 2010

Monday Musings - The Economy



 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

May you always be able to afford fries with your burger, leave a light on for your friends, and have sufficient funds in your account.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Leviticus 25:37 (NIV) 37 You must not lend him money at interest or sell him food at a profit.

Saturday, January 16, 2010

TSMSS - 1/16/10



Thanking and praising Him.....because He Is!



Peace and Joy,
Susan

John 8:31-32 (NKJV) 31 Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Thankful Thursday - 01/14/09

Thankful Thursday at Truth 4 the Journey

Whelp. Here it is.....another Thankful Thursday and the second one of 20 10. This is the day each week that I join Sonya at Truth 4 the Journey to list five things that I'm thankful for. They can be serious or silly, big or small because God honors them all.

1. I'm thankful for my wonderful husband. He's "bumping" for better days off at work. What does that mean for us? It means he'll be off on Sunday and Monday instead of two weekdays. That means more Sunday church together. It means Sunday rides on our scooters together (but on separate bikes). lol It means we won't have to take a vacation day or sick day to spend time together. Wooooohooooo. It's pretty dadgum exciting. ;)

2. I'm thankful that today it's supposed to get back up to average temperatures of the mid-40s. I'm stinkin tired of being cold.

3. I'm thankful for the awesome ideas I located for my internship project after some extensive research.

4. I'm thankful the airlines recently lowered their fares. That's right! I've been planning a trip to Charlotte in May to watch my cousin graduate. She graduates the week after I graduate and we're celebrating. Anywhoo, a couple weeks ago the flight cost about $400. Can you say.....OUCH!?? But just the other day, I purchased the same ticket for $215!!!! SCORE!!!

5. I'm thankful for the bonus day yesterday. It was a bonus because my dear hubby and I got to spend a random day together. It was fabulous.

What are you thankful for today, This Day? Please leave me a comment and be sure to hop over to Sonya's to link up with your own list.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

1 John 4:20-21 (NKJV) 20 If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? 21 And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Random Dozen - 01/13/10


I am joining Linda at 2nd cup for Random Dozen today. So glad she kept this up for 2010. I love learning more about everyone through her questions! Enjoy!

1. When was the last time you craved a food--what was it, and did you cave? sweet n spicy sweet potatoes. I bought the sweet potatoes but haven't made this yet. Thanks for reminding me. I'll be on that this week. :)

2. M & M's or Skittles? M & Ms ..... except for those chocolate Skittles. Have you tried them? Oh my!

3. Have you ever read the Bible completely through?Yes. Once after two failed attempts. Remember, success comes to those who fail, but success never comes to those who quit.


4. How long does it take you to really wake up in the morning? Long enough for my brain to kick in and say, "Hey! Get Up!

5. Have you ever been on a cruise? Not yet, but there's still time.  If not, would you like to? See first part of this question. :)

6. Who is your favorite actress? Can't say that I really have a favorite actress.

7. ______ is something that I will just never understand. Rap music. But I think that's an oxymoron.

8. How much of a technology junkie are you? Moderate. If I have to replace something I want the latest and greatest. Otherwise, I'm good with what's working for me.

9. Do you enjoy selecting greeting cards for people, or is it more of a cultural "have to" for you? I enjoy it. Have you read some of those cards? Hysterical.

10. When was the last time you got a new style/haircut? A little over three years ago. It looked like this:



Oh look.....he shaved his head too. Isn't he the sweetest guy ever?!

11. What do you enjoy shopping for most? Now, this is a tough one. Because I just enjoy shopping. Spending time with a pal, looking at clothes, shoes, accessories, kitchen gadgets... it matters not.

12. What's the last thing you think of before you leave the house? Do I have my keys?

And if you have time.....H-Mama is having a give away over at her spot: Family Team. Be sure to stop over and see her fabulous idea for "dinner discussions."

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Galatians 3:26-28 (NKJV) 26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Throne Trip Tuesdays - 1/12/10


Welcome to Throne Trip Tuesdays. Tuesday is the day I reflect on what I have learned, what I am learning, or what I'm re-learning while visiting with God.

After a week long evaluation of my control issues of trying to help God do His job, I've learned two things: I have serious trust issues....and I have SERIOUS trust issues. When it comes to my feelings, my heart, what's on my mind.....I'm afraid, very afraid.

Most people who know me would scoff at that statement. Probably because I have this tough exterior that has been built up over the years. In most situations, that would be true. But when it comes to being able to share myself, I find it extremely difficult. Life experiences have a way of changing your perspective about yourself and about other people.

I was well into my adult years when Jesus and I came face-to-face. By that time, my perspective of people and my experiences of how people treated others, well, let's just say it made me who I am today. But God has seen something else.....someone else and He has been very patient yet diligent on transforming that scared girl into a warrior for the Kingdom.

The transformation has been slow and, at times, painful. But God desires an intimate relationship. In order for me to have that with Him, that hard exterior wall that took years to build up must now be torn down. So brick by brick and day by day, God rearranges my priorities and develops in me a listening heart. A heart that is softened and trusting in Him.

An intimate relationship with God is His highest priority for my life and I am determined to have that so through me He can impact the lives of others. Here am I, Lord.....use me.....send me, today, This Day.


Peace and Joy,
Susan


John 16:24 (NIV)  24Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Monday Musings - 15 Exercises We'd Be Better Off Without in 2010

Leavin it behind with 2009


~ Jumping on the bandwagon
~ Wading through paperwork
~ Running around in circles
~ Pushing your luck
~ Spinning your wheels
~ Adding fuel to the fire
~ Beating your head against the wall
~ Climbing the walls
~ Beating your own drum
~ Dragging your heels
~ Jumping to conclusions
~ Grasping at straws
~ Fishing for compliments
~ Throwing your weight around
~ Passing the buck

Is there an exercise that is toxic to you that you need to give up? There are a couple of these I would be better off without. Join me today, This Day, by casting out the old ways and letting Jesus renew you in 2010.


Peace and Joy,
Susan

Psalm 25:21 (New International Version) 21 May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you.


Saturday, January 9, 2010

TSMSS - What Life Would Be Like




Peace and Joy,
Susan

Matthew 6:19-21 (New International Version)19"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Thankful Thursday - 1/7/10 and a Birthday!

Thankful Thursday at Truth 4 the Journey

Welcome to the first TT of 2010. If you'd like to participate, just hop on over to Sonya's at Truth 4 the Journey, and link up after you've posted your own list of five things you are thankful for this week. They can be silly or serious, big or small because God honors them all.

1. I'm thanking God for bringing me this far. 2010!!! Honestly, it is only by His grace and mercy that I am here.

2. Thank you, Lord for my wonderful husband. We spent some much needed precious time together over Christmas break. We even did a movie marathon at the theater and watch Avatar and Sherlock Holmes back to back.

3. I'm thankful that our furnace works....and works well. Seriously, it's down in the single digits at night and barely reaches 20 during the day. Can you say burrrrrrr? Sure makes it hard to ride that motorcycle.

4. Thank you God for the blogging topics, personal growth, and multitude of friendships made through This Day!

5. Praise You, Jesus that You love us enough to have given up everything to come in human form so every single person of can relate to You. No exceptions.

That's my list for this week and the start of a fabulous 2010.  Please leave me a comment and tell me what you're thankful for today, This Day. Thank you for stopping by and saying "hello."

And now for the birthday news. Today my sister, Dee, turns.....ummmmm let's just say it's her birthday. Love you, Sis. If you have time, please stop by her blog, Mrs. Peterson's Place and wish her a Happy Birthday.  She'll be super surprised.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

1 Peter 1:13 (NKJV) 13 Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Random Dozen - With the Cranks - 1/6/10


1. On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being a cranky-baby-hissy-fitter, how much of a complainer are you? Guess that depends on my mood of the day and the situation.  I'd have to say that generally, I'm somewhere between a 3 and 6.


2. When someone else is talking, do you listen, or are you thinking about what you're going to say in response? I try my best to just listen.


3. I just deleted 1062 messages from my email account. Do you have any plans for a clean sweep this month--of anything? Absolutely! To get the left over goodies and junk food out of my house!


And now, here are some brilliant questions from a gal named Angie at Angie's Ad Lib who graciously offered to let me borrow her brain. Please go over and see Angie because it was so nice of her to help me out. Thank you so much, Angie!

4. Tell us about your perfume. Was it a gift? What does it remind you of? Do you have a signature scent? There are two fragrances I'm partial to right now: Romance by Ralph Lauren and Viva la Juicy.


5. What is your best organizing tip for the new year? Give it away....or throw it away. Just do it!


6. What is your favorite comic strip? Calvin and Hobbs


7. Do you sleep with a fluffy or flat pillow? A fluffy feather pillow.


8. What color is your kitchen? Why did you choose that color? My kitchen has a lot of warm earth tones. I love it.


9. What’s the most interesting bumper sticker you’ve seen? Don't believe everything you think.


10. Do you prefer an expensive writing tool or whatever is lying around? (Are you a Montblanc or a Papermate?) It doesn't have to be expensive......but I prefer a super, ultra-fine tip.


11. What chore doesn’t feel like a chore – you just enjoy it (at least most of the time)? Cooking.



12. If your parents often repeated themselves, what is something one of them said more than once? Your face will freeze like that; or close the door, we don't live in a barn; or if I've told you once I've told you a thousand times.....; or because I said so.


If you'd like to play along, copy the list and post your own answers then hop on over to Lid's at 2nd Cup of Coffee and link up.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Isaiah 1:16-17 (NIV) 16 wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight! Stop doing wrong, 17 learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.


 

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Throne Trip Tuesdays




Welcome to Throne Trip Tuesday. I'm not really sure where this "trips to the throne" will take me, but I am open to the Potter's hands as they mold me into the person He wants me to be. With every trip I make to the throne, I come away a changed person. Well, at least I'm sure that's the goal. Sometimes I make several trips about the same thing because I'm basically hard headed and want to do things "my way."

Are you like that? Do you like to control your environment? This is probably one of the most difficult areas for me. To let go and let God. I believe God is who He says He is. I believe God can do what He says He can do. Yet, I find myself trying to help Him. Yeah, right. Like HE needs my help. Really? No, not at all.

Today, This Day, I will evaluate my relationship with God to determine the barriers that hinder me.  I'll keep you posted on what God reveals to me.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Psalm 90:12 (NIV) Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Monday, January 4, 2010

Monday Musings - Wishful Thinking


Taking small steps while walking with the Lord is how we attain our best achievements. May you reach that goal today, This Day!

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Titus 2:11-12 (NIV)11For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,

Friday, January 1, 2010

Out with the Old




I can barely believe another year is about to end. 2009 was extremely busy with selling one house, buying another house, and renting in between while we searched. It was a year of taking a picture every day. That was a huge challenge. I'm very thankful to have participated in Project 365. Just take a look at everything that transpired. Will I do that again? Probably, but not in 2010.

2009 was also my first full year of blogging. I've had my ups and downs with it. Certainly the most challenging for me was topics for discussion. Really.....what could I possibly have to say of interest to anyone else? Yet, you came, you read, you commented.....but most of all, you blessed me. I have made dear friends through this medium and am the better for them.

So where do I go from here with blogging? This question has been on my mind and heart lately as I look forward to the path that God has prepared for me. Is there a particular topic or theme I should write about? What would be of interest to you, the reader?

So, out with the old way of blogging and in with the new. What will be new you ask? A journey, an adventure, a discovery of whatever lesson God is teaching me today.....This Day! Please hop aboard for this  journey with me, pray that I will have an open heart towards God and the lessons He will teach me. Thank you so much for your comments, encouragement, and friendship. God's blessings to you in 2010.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Isaiah 43:18-19 (New International Version) 18 "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.