Posts
I'll make my last post of 2010 very brief. In about an hour we're having a big New Years' blast with our small group. Dane and I are starting our celebration now by watching one of our all-time favorite Friends episodes: The One with all the Resolutions. Go here to see a short clip.
Happy New Year everyone!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Stats?
So the only stats I've really ever thought about have been MLB stats. (And for those of you that know me you know that's not too often.) But, my friend and coworker Whitney over at Southern Grace has introduced me to Blogger Stats.
If you're reading this then you know that I'm not an avid blogger - just one who blogs from time to time; but, I love the idea that I can now see how many people frequent my blog and from where. How awesome!
Of course, I'd still love for you to drop by with a comment any old day instead of showing up in a stat.
If you're reading this then you know that I'm not an avid blogger - just one who blogs from time to time; but, I love the idea that I can now see how many people frequent my blog and from where. How awesome!
Of course, I'd still love for you to drop by with a comment any old day instead of showing up in a stat.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
2010...almost the end
Dane and I are now back home to our cozy apartment in Louisville. After the wedding of a dear friend, birthday celebrations with family and lots of family Christmas fun, we are surprisingly relaxed, rejuvenated and ready to begin 2011. (How about that alliteration?)
I'm so grateful to have a job that offers amazing holiday and vacation time. Our office is closed Mon, Tues and Fri of this week which gives me lots of time to catch up on laundry from our trip, put away all of the Christmas decorations and work on changing a few things around for 2011. I like to redecorate with what we have from time to time - just to mix it up.
Since I last blogged I have almost completely quit couponing. I know, I know. For some of you that's a huge shock and for those of you who have couponed in that past you know how there are just times you get tired of it. I'm not sure where I'll go from here. Maybe I'll jump back in with one foot so as not to get so bogged down. I've started trying to cook with more fresh produce since our local Kroger does a WONDERFUL job of always having fresh and affordable fruits and veggies. Since you don't really have coupons for these items I've quit paying as much attention to it.
I've also read two wonderful books this fall: Her Mother's Hope and Her Daughter's Dream. Both are by Francine Rivers and are amazing stories of God's grace in our lives along with the relationships of women in a family.
I've recently started these books:
Radical Womanhood
Womanly Dominion
On a final note, my wonderful Grannie gave us new sheets for our bed and I have just washed them and put them on our bed. Forgive the poor photo quality. Right now I'm just glad to have a camera period.
I'm so grateful to have a job that offers amazing holiday and vacation time. Our office is closed Mon, Tues and Fri of this week which gives me lots of time to catch up on laundry from our trip, put away all of the Christmas decorations and work on changing a few things around for 2011. I like to redecorate with what we have from time to time - just to mix it up.
Since I last blogged I have almost completely quit couponing. I know, I know. For some of you that's a huge shock and for those of you who have couponed in that past you know how there are just times you get tired of it. I'm not sure where I'll go from here. Maybe I'll jump back in with one foot so as not to get so bogged down. I've started trying to cook with more fresh produce since our local Kroger does a WONDERFUL job of always having fresh and affordable fruits and veggies. Since you don't really have coupons for these items I've quit paying as much attention to it.
I've also read two wonderful books this fall: Her Mother's Hope and Her Daughter's Dream. Both are by Francine Rivers and are amazing stories of God's grace in our lives along with the relationships of women in a family.
I've recently started these books:
Radical Womanhood
Womanly Dominion
On a final note, my wonderful Grannie gave us new sheets for our bed and I have just washed them and put them on our bed. Forgive the poor photo quality. Right now I'm just glad to have a camera period.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Giveaway!
I know I've been scarce lately, but here's a tidbit of fun. Check out this great giveaway from Ardent Sparrow.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
adoption for the rest of us • Hand-made ornaments by the Neeley’s!
If you know us at all, then you know that Dane and I are super excited about one day adopting. This is still in the future; but, our pastor and his family are adopting now! Here's one way you can support them and also decorate your tree this Christmas!
adoption for the rest of us • Hand-made ornaments by the Neeley’s!
adoption for the rest of us • Hand-made ornaments by the Neeley’s!
Monday, September 20, 2010
Everyone loves good food
So I ventured out and made veggie lasagna tonight. Now let me clarify, we've subbed zucchini and squash for meat before but tonight I also used pasta made from vegetables instead of wheat and flour. Let me just say...yum! If my camera had not been stolen, I'd post a picture. (I'm trying hard to get over that but I'm still kinda frustrated about it.) But as I've said before, that lovely man must have needed our GPS and camera much more than we did. He probably uses it for more important things than posting pictures on his blog. Anyways...
Everyone knows that a great recipe post has great pictures so this is why I'm going to point you to a recipe of one of my favorite bloggers: The Pioneer Woman. Her recipe for Steak Bites is absolutely wonderful and one of Dane's favorite dishes! I'm definitely wanting to get her cookbook for my birthday next month...any takers? Hmm?? No? Well...you must go ahead and see the recipe here.
Everyone knows that a great recipe post has great pictures so this is why I'm going to point you to a recipe of one of my favorite bloggers: The Pioneer Woman. Her recipe for Steak Bites is absolutely wonderful and one of Dane's favorite dishes! I'm definitely wanting to get her cookbook for my birthday next month...any takers? Hmm?? No? Well...you must go ahead and see the recipe here.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
I Heart Reading
Just finished another wonderful book by Francine Rivers. Whenever I want to read a book that just draws me in, I can always count on her to deliver. A friend highly recommended the book and let me borrow her copy of Her Mother's Hope. It was every bit as wonderful as she said!
The sequel, Her Daughter's Dream, came out this past week so I can't wait to read it soon!
Other than a great book, we are loving this fall season...even though the high is still in the 90s every day this week. We had a party at our home yesterday with everyone from Dane's office and had a blast! We painted pumpkins, played cornhole, grilled ribs and burgers and even played a little Catchphrase. The sad consequence of being outside for all of this fun is that it's pollen season and I woke up to a fight with my allergies this morning. Everyone always tells us that you've never experienced bad allergies until you've lived in the Ohio River Valley and I must concur.
If I had a camera that allowed me to post pictures online then I would post a picture of Dane's pumpkin that he painted. Our pumpkins definitely show our different personalities. Mine has cute green and white polka dots; but, his has a stick like figure of Antoine Dodson with a speech bubble saying "Hide yo kids." Ah...what would we do without Antoine's song in our lives.
The sequel, Her Daughter's Dream, came out this past week so I can't wait to read it soon!
Other than a great book, we are loving this fall season...even though the high is still in the 90s every day this week. We had a party at our home yesterday with everyone from Dane's office and had a blast! We painted pumpkins, played cornhole, grilled ribs and burgers and even played a little Catchphrase. The sad consequence of being outside for all of this fun is that it's pollen season and I woke up to a fight with my allergies this morning. Everyone always tells us that you've never experienced bad allergies until you've lived in the Ohio River Valley and I must concur.
If I had a camera that allowed me to post pictures online then I would post a picture of Dane's pumpkin that he painted. Our pumpkins definitely show our different personalities. Mine has cute green and white polka dots; but, his has a stick like figure of Antoine Dodson with a speech bubble saying "Hide yo kids." Ah...what would we do without Antoine's song in our lives.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Book Review
Remember when I mentioned that I was reading this book? Well, today I finished the book and have a few thoughts to share.
First of all, in case you missed the first post, the book is called Following Jesus Through the Eye of the Needle and is written by Kent Annan, a Princeton grad with a degree in theology who now works with the organization Beyond Borders.
The book details Kent and his wife Shelly's experience while living in Haiti. Kent & Shelly moved to the country with Beyond Borders and were immediately thrust full force into the true Haitian life (well, as true of a Haitian life as you can have when you're not a native). They lived with a local family for several months in a two room home while they learned the language and customs of the Haitian people. After some time, they developed relationships with locals who then were employed by Kent & Shelly to build a home. The book consists primarily of the daily adventures they encountered while living with the Haitian family and while building their home.
I love learning about other cultures and found his description of his time there to be very interesting. Kent tells of the struggles that they faced as "ban" or "white" people and also of the daily trials of the Haitian people during a time of great political unrest. Throughout the book Kent mentions his desire for the people to one day see true prosperity. He quotes this verse from Jeremiah 32:15: " [f]or this is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Houses, fields and vineyards will again be bought in this land."
I support Kent in his desire for the people of Haiti to one day not experience the immense physical suffering that they constantly do today. The country has a physical need that is so great that many Americans can't even begin to imagine what it would be like to live there.
Kent and I diverge on the step that happens after that desire. Let me share this quote from pg. 126 of the book.
"First, I'm doing work with Haitian colleagues that I believe is good and siding with people who need more people on their side. Second, there's something about the desperation of life here that resonates with how desperate life itself really, actually is. On the surface, an American suburb is a place where life is orderly, manicured, manageable. Here, the surface is raw and needy and clawing. There is some reassurance in living where the exterior life, with all its ragged desperation - and glimpses of beauty and faith and spontaneous dancing - resonates more with the interior experience of being human."
At no point in his book does Kent mention that they answer to the desperation of the Haitian people is the gospel. If the gospel is a driving force in you life, I do not see how you can write a book and never mention that it is the only hope worth living for.
One of the first times that Jesus is mentioned results in the idea of a works-based righteousness apart from faith in Christ.
"If Jesus correctly predicted that the meek will inherit the earth, then expect Pouchon [a boy hired by Kent to help carry water to their home in exchange for the boy's schooling] to someday have vast holdings spanning rivers and valleys, mountains and plains. If fortunate, I'll get to work in his fields." - pg 128.
Even though I have not lived in Haiti for any period of time, I have experienced the difficulty of telling someone in dire physical need that their greatest need is not the food they have been without for so long, but Christ. This vast physical need is not an excuse to not share the gospel, just as sharing the gospel is not an excuse to not meet physical needs. Both must be met. We meet physical needs because the gospel compels us to do so, not because of pity or of a desire to bring prosperity.
It seems that Kent's goals and desires have pure motives; but, if he really wants to bring justice, restoration and hope to Haiti, why not proclaim the One who is the author of these things? Kent mentions prayers and various verses at times that allow the reader to know that he identifies himself as a Christian; however, if the gospel is living and active in his life, then why is it not mentioned as a means of great hope to the Haitian people? At times it seems that his desire is that the country would only be free from struggles and know prosperity but not know the sufficiency of Christ.
In summary, I support Kent's goal of wanting the Haitian people to have a life free of constant pain and suffering; however, this goal is the same of many well-intentioned non-believers around the world. As followers of Christ, we are commanded to provide the gospel as the hope and salvation to everyone who will believe.
First of all, in case you missed the first post, the book is called Following Jesus Through the Eye of the Needle and is written by Kent Annan, a Princeton grad with a degree in theology who now works with the organization Beyond Borders.
The book details Kent and his wife Shelly's experience while living in Haiti. Kent & Shelly moved to the country with Beyond Borders and were immediately thrust full force into the true Haitian life (well, as true of a Haitian life as you can have when you're not a native). They lived with a local family for several months in a two room home while they learned the language and customs of the Haitian people. After some time, they developed relationships with locals who then were employed by Kent & Shelly to build a home. The book consists primarily of the daily adventures they encountered while living with the Haitian family and while building their home.
I love learning about other cultures and found his description of his time there to be very interesting. Kent tells of the struggles that they faced as "ban" or "white" people and also of the daily trials of the Haitian people during a time of great political unrest. Throughout the book Kent mentions his desire for the people to one day see true prosperity. He quotes this verse from Jeremiah 32:15: " [f]or this is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Houses, fields and vineyards will again be bought in this land."
I support Kent in his desire for the people of Haiti to one day not experience the immense physical suffering that they constantly do today. The country has a physical need that is so great that many Americans can't even begin to imagine what it would be like to live there.
Kent and I diverge on the step that happens after that desire. Let me share this quote from pg. 126 of the book.
"First, I'm doing work with Haitian colleagues that I believe is good and siding with people who need more people on their side. Second, there's something about the desperation of life here that resonates with how desperate life itself really, actually is. On the surface, an American suburb is a place where life is orderly, manicured, manageable. Here, the surface is raw and needy and clawing. There is some reassurance in living where the exterior life, with all its ragged desperation - and glimpses of beauty and faith and spontaneous dancing - resonates more with the interior experience of being human."
At no point in his book does Kent mention that they answer to the desperation of the Haitian people is the gospel. If the gospel is a driving force in you life, I do not see how you can write a book and never mention that it is the only hope worth living for.
One of the first times that Jesus is mentioned results in the idea of a works-based righteousness apart from faith in Christ.
"If Jesus correctly predicted that the meek will inherit the earth, then expect Pouchon [a boy hired by Kent to help carry water to their home in exchange for the boy's schooling] to someday have vast holdings spanning rivers and valleys, mountains and plains. If fortunate, I'll get to work in his fields." - pg 128.
Even though I have not lived in Haiti for any period of time, I have experienced the difficulty of telling someone in dire physical need that their greatest need is not the food they have been without for so long, but Christ. This vast physical need is not an excuse to not share the gospel, just as sharing the gospel is not an excuse to not meet physical needs. Both must be met. We meet physical needs because the gospel compels us to do so, not because of pity or of a desire to bring prosperity.
It seems that Kent's goals and desires have pure motives; but, if he really wants to bring justice, restoration and hope to Haiti, why not proclaim the One who is the author of these things? Kent mentions prayers and various verses at times that allow the reader to know that he identifies himself as a Christian; however, if the gospel is living and active in his life, then why is it not mentioned as a means of great hope to the Haitian people? At times it seems that his desire is that the country would only be free from struggles and know prosperity but not know the sufficiency of Christ.
In summary, I support Kent's goal of wanting the Haitian people to have a life free of constant pain and suffering; however, this goal is the same of many well-intentioned non-believers around the world. As followers of Christ, we are commanded to provide the gospel as the hope and salvation to everyone who will believe.
Friday, September 3, 2010
A Headband You Just Can't Live Without
You simply MUST check out this blog on how to make this adorable headband.
That's all I've got for today. Have a relaxing Labor Day weekend!!
That's all I've got for today. Have a relaxing Labor Day weekend!!
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Go Warriors!
I'm sitting here listening to the CCHS vs. Cedar Bluff game tonight and wishing I was there to cheer on Hudson! Sometimes living 6 hours away is not so fun.
A busy weekend coming up with Little Groups teacher training at church, office cookout, a group leaders meeting and LOTS of studying for Dane. Even though we're far away from family, I'm thankful for the work God is doing in our lives while we are here.
A busy weekend coming up with Little Groups teacher training at church, office cookout, a group leaders meeting and LOTS of studying for Dane. Even though we're far away from family, I'm thankful for the work God is doing in our lives while we are here.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Vellum...simply luxurious
Looking for a unique table centerpiece for your wedding reception or holiday party? Try this!
The Posh Event has these amazing table luminaries for sale for just $10 at her Esty shop.
Decorating on a budget? Just purchase a pack of vellum paper at your local craft store, print your favorite pattern on your color of choice, wrap to form a column then place a lit tealight candle in the middle.
The Posh Event has these amazing table luminaries for sale for just $10 at her Esty shop.
Decorating on a budget? Just purchase a pack of vellum paper at your local craft store, print your favorite pattern on your color of choice, wrap to form a column then place a lit tealight candle in the middle.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Owls, birds and good music
So recently I had my first official blog complaint. A dear friend who I have known for my entire life of 23 years (ummhmm...Payden) has let me know that I have let her down by not blogging consistently. You see, we live at least 6 hours apart and apparently I am not keeping her updated with my life. I shall try to do better. :)
This summer has been wonderful! I like to consider it our first real summer in Louisville. Last summer was filled with WAY too many trips. Here are a few things we've done:
-day trip to Cincinnati
-farmer's market trips (in the summer there is a wonderful local farmer's market at a church about 5 minutes from our apartment)
-rediscovered my love for fruit smoothies
-relaxing walks with friends (before this 100 degree heat wave started)
-many fun trips to the amazing Homemade Pie & Ice Cream Kitchen - did I mention it's a mere 10 minute walk from our place?
-read lots of good books
We're now winding down the summer and excited about fall things and cooler weather. Dane's classes have begun again which means I have lots of spare time for which I need to find productive things to do. I have lots of ideas for sewing and reading. Speaking of reading, I'm currently reading two books:
Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions by George Barna
and
Following Jesus Through the Eye of a Needle by Ken Annan
Now, for all of you people who keep up with liberal and conservative Christian authors and associate Ken Annan with Shane Claiborne and Brian McLaren, let me calm you. I have not gone off the deep end; yet, I was given this book and am curious to read about his time spent living in Haiti. Also, since I have never read anything by him I would like to know what he's all about.
On a random note, I have always been against anything decorative items involving birds. I'm generally just not a bird fan; however, recently I have become quite the lover of owl and bird items. Just look at these!
What child's nursery would be complete without this super cute owl wall decal?
And what about designing your own wallet with a cute bird decal?
As for the music, I'll save that for another post; but, just to clue you in...I've found some great new tunes.
This summer has been wonderful! I like to consider it our first real summer in Louisville. Last summer was filled with WAY too many trips. Here are a few things we've done:
-day trip to Cincinnati
-farmer's market trips (in the summer there is a wonderful local farmer's market at a church about 5 minutes from our apartment)
-rediscovered my love for fruit smoothies
-relaxing walks with friends (before this 100 degree heat wave started)
-many fun trips to the amazing Homemade Pie & Ice Cream Kitchen - did I mention it's a mere 10 minute walk from our place?
-read lots of good books
We're now winding down the summer and excited about fall things and cooler weather. Dane's classes have begun again which means I have lots of spare time for which I need to find productive things to do. I have lots of ideas for sewing and reading. Speaking of reading, I'm currently reading two books:
Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions by George Barna
and
Following Jesus Through the Eye of a Needle by Ken Annan
Now, for all of you people who keep up with liberal and conservative Christian authors and associate Ken Annan with Shane Claiborne and Brian McLaren, let me calm you. I have not gone off the deep end; yet, I was given this book and am curious to read about his time spent living in Haiti. Also, since I have never read anything by him I would like to know what he's all about.
On a random note, I have always been against anything decorative items involving birds. I'm generally just not a bird fan; however, recently I have become quite the lover of owl and bird items. Just look at these!
What child's nursery would be complete without this super cute owl wall decal?
And what about designing your own wallet with a cute bird decal?
As for the music, I'll save that for another post; but, just to clue you in...I've found some great new tunes.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
50 Things You May Not Know About Me - Part 3
38. I have a small obsession with fresh flowers.
39. My favorite color by far is green.
40. I'd love to gain enough sewing skills (and time) to make my own clothes.
41. I could probably go for some good Mexican food at any time of the day.
42. Reading a good fiction book on a summer afternoon at Starbucks is one of my favorite activities.
43. I own almost 8 times fewer books than my husband.
44. Going to a bookstore always inspires me to read more, especially the classics.
45. Yankee Candle Company fall scented candles are some of my favorite smells.
46. I love various organizational containers.
47. I constantly go back and forth about whether or not to paint our apartment.
48. Coloring is still fun, even at 23 yrs old.
49. Chunky Apple Cake w/ Cream Cheese Icing is my "go to" cake recipe (and one of our favs).
50. I have all of the American Girl dolls.
39. My favorite color by far is green.
40. I'd love to gain enough sewing skills (and time) to make my own clothes.
41. I could probably go for some good Mexican food at any time of the day.
42. Reading a good fiction book on a summer afternoon at Starbucks is one of my favorite activities.
43. I own almost 8 times fewer books than my husband.
44. Going to a bookstore always inspires me to read more, especially the classics.
45. Yankee Candle Company fall scented candles are some of my favorite smells.
46. I love various organizational containers.
47. I constantly go back and forth about whether or not to paint our apartment.
48. Coloring is still fun, even at 23 yrs old.
49. Chunky Apple Cake w/ Cream Cheese Icing is my "go to" cake recipe (and one of our favs).
50. I have all of the American Girl dolls.
Monday, June 7, 2010
50 Things You May Not Know About Me - Part 2
26. I love card games and board games.
27. I always love acquiring cute, warm blankets. If you ever come to visit, there will be no shortage of blankets for you since we have at least 10.
28. I've managed to keep a houseplant alive for a full 9 months and that's a record.
29. Green is my favorite color. Specifically, the shade between Crayola green and lime.
30. I love to work on crafty projects. Sewing, card making, painting...it's all great. I made this gift wrap organizer this past winter.
31. I've always vowed never to read more than 1 book at a time and currently I'm reading 3: "How People Change," "The Centurion's Wife" and "Excellent Wife."
32. Dane and I sponsor a beautiful little girl through Compassion who lives in Bolivia.
33. I heart bubble baths and Bath and Body Works Exotic Coconut bubble bath.
34. I've never had a phone with internet access and don't plan to anytime soon. Old fashioned? Maybe so but it works for me.
35. Our honeymoon was in Savannah, GA and I can't wait to go back.
36. I married my amazing husband on March 21, 2009.
37. I have fiestaware dishes because I couldn't decide on just one color...so I have six.
to be continued...
27. I always love acquiring cute, warm blankets. If you ever come to visit, there will be no shortage of blankets for you since we have at least 10.
28. I've managed to keep a houseplant alive for a full 9 months and that's a record.
29. Green is my favorite color. Specifically, the shade between Crayola green and lime.
30. I love to work on crafty projects. Sewing, card making, painting...it's all great. I made this gift wrap organizer this past winter.
31. I've always vowed never to read more than 1 book at a time and currently I'm reading 3: "How People Change," "The Centurion's Wife" and "Excellent Wife."
32. Dane and I sponsor a beautiful little girl through Compassion who lives in Bolivia.
33. I heart bubble baths and Bath and Body Works Exotic Coconut bubble bath.
34. I've never had a phone with internet access and don't plan to anytime soon. Old fashioned? Maybe so but it works for me.
35. Our honeymoon was in Savannah, GA and I can't wait to go back.
36. I married my amazing husband on March 21, 2009.
37. I have fiestaware dishes because I couldn't decide on just one color...so I have six.
to be continued...
Sunday, June 6, 2010
50 Things You May Not Know About Me - Part 1
I stole this idea from this amazing friend. Chances are that if you're reading this you probably know me; but, you may not know these things.
1. I strive to always paint my toenails.
2. I've only had 1 pedicure in my life. (I've suggested to Dane that I'd like another in the near future.) :)
3. I'm a punctuation nazi. The incorrect use of the semicolon tends to drive me nuts.
4. Our camera was stolen a few months ago so that is why there are so few pictures on my blog.
5. By the age of 11 my best friend and I knew the layout of Office Max better than my mom knew the grocery store. Let's just say we loved office supplies.
6. In sixth grade I remember coming home to scrub my white shoes in order to keep them perfectly white. OCD, yes?
7. I love to paint pictures but don't do it often due to the fact of not wanting 1000 painted canvases sitting around my home.
8. I hope to one day begin a successful Etsy shop.
9. I've recently become a HUGE fan of Ikea.
10.I've never seen Lost, Grey's Anatomy, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings or Twilight and don't ever plan to do so. It's fine if you like it, but I have no interest there.
11. I took piano lessons for about 6 years.
12. I played softball in a local league for 6 years and then for 2 years in high school.
13. I celebrate birthday weeks.
14. I played golf with my dad for several years as a child.
15. I've ridden through the entire country of Botswana on a van with 15 people and slept at the border of Zambia to enter as soon as it opens the next day.
16. I have a hard time getting rid of photos...even if I know I'll never look at them for 5 years.
17. I love to organize everything; but, somehow I'm not bothered that my craft box is in utter chaos.
18. Kool-Aid pink lemonade is my drink of choice.
19. I've never had a broken bone.
20. I absolutely LOVE fresh flowers. This lovely bouquet was given to me on Valentine's of this year.
21. I love a good Starbucks latte, frap or mocha but don't particularly enjoy coffee. I know...a little high maintenance.
22. I have a tendency to want to control things. God is showing his grace by teaching me to go with the flow sometimes.
23. I still drive the car I drove when I turned 16. My '96 red Ford Taurus has been good to me.
24. People often think I'm older than I am...just 23 guys not 28.
25. I worked as a Housing Coordinator for Student Life Camp in summer '07 and got to assign housing for 800-1600 students each week for 12 weeks.
Stay tuned for part 2.
1. I strive to always paint my toenails.
2. I've only had 1 pedicure in my life. (I've suggested to Dane that I'd like another in the near future.) :)
3. I'm a punctuation nazi. The incorrect use of the semicolon tends to drive me nuts.
4. Our camera was stolen a few months ago so that is why there are so few pictures on my blog.
5. By the age of 11 my best friend and I knew the layout of Office Max better than my mom knew the grocery store. Let's just say we loved office supplies.
6. In sixth grade I remember coming home to scrub my white shoes in order to keep them perfectly white. OCD, yes?
7. I love to paint pictures but don't do it often due to the fact of not wanting 1000 painted canvases sitting around my home.
8. I hope to one day begin a successful Etsy shop.
9. I've recently become a HUGE fan of Ikea.
10.I've never seen Lost, Grey's Anatomy, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings or Twilight and don't ever plan to do so. It's fine if you like it, but I have no interest there.
11. I took piano lessons for about 6 years.
12. I played softball in a local league for 6 years and then for 2 years in high school.
13. I celebrate birthday weeks.
14. I played golf with my dad for several years as a child.
15. I've ridden through the entire country of Botswana on a van with 15 people and slept at the border of Zambia to enter as soon as it opens the next day.
16. I have a hard time getting rid of photos...even if I know I'll never look at them for 5 years.
17. I love to organize everything; but, somehow I'm not bothered that my craft box is in utter chaos.
18. Kool-Aid pink lemonade is my drink of choice.
19. I've never had a broken bone.
20. I absolutely LOVE fresh flowers. This lovely bouquet was given to me on Valentine's of this year.
21. I love a good Starbucks latte, frap or mocha but don't particularly enjoy coffee. I know...a little high maintenance.
22. I have a tendency to want to control things. God is showing his grace by teaching me to go with the flow sometimes.
23. I still drive the car I drove when I turned 16. My '96 red Ford Taurus has been good to me.
24. People often think I'm older than I am...just 23 guys not 28.
25. I worked as a Housing Coordinator for Student Life Camp in summer '07 and got to assign housing for 800-1600 students each week for 12 weeks.
Stay tuned for part 2.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Wouldn't you love this room?
So I must say that I adore this living room.
I've recently started casually reading this blog by Jess called Makeunder My Life and she has such amazing design ideas!
My one hesitation with the room is the cream colored couch...I just see the potential for too many stains to show up. Maybe change it to a charcoal with some bright accent pillows?
I've recently started casually reading this blog by Jess called Makeunder My Life and she has such amazing design ideas!
My one hesitation with the room is the cream colored couch...I just see the potential for too many stains to show up. Maybe change it to a charcoal with some bright accent pillows?
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Herbs, painting and chaos
Thanks for all of the tips! I'll definitely be putting them to good use.
Today has just been one of those days. My mind feels like it's just stretched to capacity and I can't manage anything else that has to do with a certain unnamed task. I'm stuck in complete reactive mode and not proactive mode; but, I'm not sure how to get back there. Luckily, this is only in one area of my life right now and I've become good at compartmentalizing. As someone reminded me a few weeks ago, God's grace is sufficient and will carry us when we think we deserve a break. We deserve death and hell, not a break; but, God's grace will carry me when I think the craziness and busyness will just consume.
On a lighter note, I bought some cilantro and basil plants last week to plant in my herb box. This past year I grew rosemary, parsley and oregano; however, I didn't use any of them very much. Dane LOVES fresh cilantro in Mexican dishes and we love Mexican food so hopefully this will be a great choice for us to grow in our little indoor herb garden. I'll find ways to use the basil, but the leaves are just so big and green, they're gorgeous. And...I tried to grow basil last year but royally killed it within the first month so the will-never-be-defeated-Monica (Friends anyone?) side of me must try again and succeed.
I got out my paints, canvas and brushes on Friday night and spent the night painting. O my how I miss that! It brought back such sweet memories of painting late into the morning with Meghan, Jessica and Sybil in the dorm. I would take a picture to reveal my new painting; however, my camera is permanently out of pocket. An unnamed maintenance man deemed it unnecessary for me to have one and thought he needed it more. Donations for a new one will be gladly accepted. :)
Today has just been one of those days. My mind feels like it's just stretched to capacity and I can't manage anything else that has to do with a certain unnamed task. I'm stuck in complete reactive mode and not proactive mode; but, I'm not sure how to get back there. Luckily, this is only in one area of my life right now and I've become good at compartmentalizing. As someone reminded me a few weeks ago, God's grace is sufficient and will carry us when we think we deserve a break. We deserve death and hell, not a break; but, God's grace will carry me when I think the craziness and busyness will just consume.
On a lighter note, I bought some cilantro and basil plants last week to plant in my herb box. This past year I grew rosemary, parsley and oregano; however, I didn't use any of them very much. Dane LOVES fresh cilantro in Mexican dishes and we love Mexican food so hopefully this will be a great choice for us to grow in our little indoor herb garden. I'll find ways to use the basil, but the leaves are just so big and green, they're gorgeous. And...I tried to grow basil last year but royally killed it within the first month so the will-never-be-defeated-Monica (Friends anyone?) side of me must try again and succeed.
I got out my paints, canvas and brushes on Friday night and spent the night painting. O my how I miss that! It brought back such sweet memories of painting late into the morning with Meghan, Jessica and Sybil in the dorm. I would take a picture to reveal my new painting; however, my camera is permanently out of pocket. An unnamed maintenance man deemed it unnecessary for me to have one and thought he needed it more. Donations for a new one will be gladly accepted. :)
Monday, April 19, 2010
Lay 'em all out
So this blog requires some interaction from my 8 readers, yes...I know you're out there. I'd love to know your favorite household tips. You know the ones that you feel just give a little extra oomph in running your home.
Like, how in the world do you keep the drip pans clean on your stove?
Or...what ingredients do you keep on hand for your "go-to" meal? What is that meal?
My most baffling question yet, how do you chop an onion without wanting to tear your eyes out from the burn and tears? (Tried washing it, cutting it under water, wearing sunglasses, chopping in intervals...nothing works so far.)
Do you make your own cleaners, are you a brand snob or do you just buy what's cheapest?
How o how do you keep your hardwood floors clean and free from dust bunnies without sweeping the entire home every other day?
Bring them on...I'd love to know all of your tips and tactics for the home.
Like, how in the world do you keep the drip pans clean on your stove?
Or...what ingredients do you keep on hand for your "go-to" meal? What is that meal?
My most baffling question yet, how do you chop an onion without wanting to tear your eyes out from the burn and tears? (Tried washing it, cutting it under water, wearing sunglasses, chopping in intervals...nothing works so far.)
Do you make your own cleaners, are you a brand snob or do you just buy what's cheapest?
How o how do you keep your hardwood floors clean and free from dust bunnies without sweeping the entire home every other day?
Bring them on...I'd love to know all of your tips and tactics for the home.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Compassion Sunday
- One third of the world’s children live in extreme poverty.
- Every day, 1,600 women and more than 10,000 newborns die globally due to complications that could have been prevented.
- Approximately 15 million children under the age of 18 have lost one or both parents to AIDS.
- 20 million children have had to leave their homes due to war. This is roughly the population of Australia.
- An estimated 1.2 million children are trafficked every year, many for sexual exploitation or cheap labor.
How do we respond? The gospel demands a response.
- Every day, 1,600 women and more than 10,000 newborns die globally due to complications that could have been prevented.
- Approximately 15 million children under the age of 18 have lost one or both parents to AIDS.
- 20 million children have had to leave their homes due to war. This is roughly the population of Australia.
- An estimated 1.2 million children are trafficked every year, many for sexual exploitation or cheap labor.
How do we respond? The gospel demands a response.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Those weeks
Ever have one of those weeks...
where you don't want to go to the grocery store?
where you don't want to do laundry?
where you don't want to wash dishes?
where you don't want to clean or organize?
This is that week. It's so beautiful outside that I love taking it all in. Doing lots of reading and fun things this week. Love it.
Did I mention these earrings by lkfarnsworth are o so adorable?! Gotta love etsy.
where you don't want to go to the grocery store?
where you don't want to do laundry?
where you don't want to wash dishes?
where you don't want to clean or organize?
This is that week. It's so beautiful outside that I love taking it all in. Doing lots of reading and fun things this week. Love it.
Did I mention these earrings by lkfarnsworth are o so adorable?! Gotta love etsy.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
My Treasure
This poem was posted by the Real Hope for Haiti Rescue Center and I just want to share it.
Faithful Shepherd, feed me
Faithful Shepherd, feed me
In the pastures green;
Faithful Shepherd, lead me
Where Thy steps are seen.
Hold me fast and guide me
In the narrow way;
So, with Thee beside me,
I shall never stray.
Daily bring me nearer
To the heavenly shore;
May my faith grow clearer.
May I love Thee more!
Hallow every pleasure,
Every gift and pain;
Be Thyself my Treasure.
Though none else I gain. Amen
Faithful Shepherd, feed me
Faithful Shepherd, feed me
In the pastures green;
Faithful Shepherd, lead me
Where Thy steps are seen.
Hold me fast and guide me
In the narrow way;
So, with Thee beside me,
I shall never stray.
Daily bring me nearer
To the heavenly shore;
May my faith grow clearer.
May I love Thee more!
Hallow every pleasure,
Every gift and pain;
Be Thyself my Treasure.
Though none else I gain. Amen
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Voice of the Martyrs
I know it's long...but I have a lot to say. The following topic has been on my mind a lot lately...the persecution and suffering of Christians around the world.
First of all, several years ago I had no idea that people were daily enduring intense suffering for their faith. This was not something that I saw or heard a lot of until recently. Voice of the Martyrs is a publication that gives a voice to the thousands of persecuted believers around the world. You can access their website here or type in "Voice of the Martyrs" on facebook to become a fan and see daily updates. This particular event that I read about yesterday took place on Sunday.
http://www.persecution.com/public/newsroom.aspx?story_ID=MjI0
On Sunday hundreds of christians living near Jos, Nigeria were slain with machetes by Muslim herdsmen. You can read the entire article at the link above. Now my purpose of this blog is not to retell the article, but to share with you the questions I've been asking myself lately.
Should events like this make us feel sorry for persecuted Christians around the world? No. 1 Peter 2:19-21 says this: "For this [submitting to just and unjust authority] is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps." Christians are called to suffer because Christ suffered.
Should persecution by other religions cause us to hate those who hate Christ?
No. 1 Peter 2:23-24 continues with this: "When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed."
Should we continue in sadness over the acts of persecution?
No. 1 Peter 1:3-9 tells us that we are to rejoice because we have a hope far greater! "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, 9 obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls."
Should the result of exposing ourselves to the acts of persecution be solely thankfulness for our religious freedom?
No. Persecution continues because people are displaying true faith. We do not pray for persecution to stop because Christ tells us in 1 Peter that Christians will (not might) endure suffering. We are not called to lives of comfort and ease. As more believers seek God in all of His glory and proclaim his name to the nations, persecution will increase. In this we praise God that he is being proclaimed to the nations!
In summary, it is challenging to not be overcome with grief and fear when you allow yourself to become aware of the suffering of believers around the world. It is also challenging to not allow fear of suffering to keep you from following the Great Commission to take the gospel to the nations. Our sinful nature pulls at us to go in these two directions: fear and pity. But Christ calls us to rejoice because we have an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. Our hope is not in this world, but in Christ and he will one day be worshipped by every tribe, language, people and nation!
First of all, several years ago I had no idea that people were daily enduring intense suffering for their faith. This was not something that I saw or heard a lot of until recently. Voice of the Martyrs is a publication that gives a voice to the thousands of persecuted believers around the world. You can access their website here or type in "Voice of the Martyrs" on facebook to become a fan and see daily updates. This particular event that I read about yesterday took place on Sunday.
http://www.persecution.com/public/newsroom.aspx?story_ID=MjI0
On Sunday hundreds of christians living near Jos, Nigeria were slain with machetes by Muslim herdsmen. You can read the entire article at the link above. Now my purpose of this blog is not to retell the article, but to share with you the questions I've been asking myself lately.
Should events like this make us feel sorry for persecuted Christians around the world? No. 1 Peter 2:19-21 says this: "For this [submitting to just and unjust authority] is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps." Christians are called to suffer because Christ suffered.
Should persecution by other religions cause us to hate those who hate Christ?
No. 1 Peter 2:23-24 continues with this: "When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed."
Should we continue in sadness over the acts of persecution?
No. 1 Peter 1:3-9 tells us that we are to rejoice because we have a hope far greater! "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, 9 obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls."
Should the result of exposing ourselves to the acts of persecution be solely thankfulness for our religious freedom?
No. Persecution continues because people are displaying true faith. We do not pray for persecution to stop because Christ tells us in 1 Peter that Christians will (not might) endure suffering. We are not called to lives of comfort and ease. As more believers seek God in all of His glory and proclaim his name to the nations, persecution will increase. In this we praise God that he is being proclaimed to the nations!
In summary, it is challenging to not be overcome with grief and fear when you allow yourself to become aware of the suffering of believers around the world. It is also challenging to not allow fear of suffering to keep you from following the Great Commission to take the gospel to the nations. Our sinful nature pulls at us to go in these two directions: fear and pity. But Christ calls us to rejoice because we have an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. Our hope is not in this world, but in Christ and he will one day be worshipped by every tribe, language, people and nation!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Ummm...
This has the potential to be one long week. I definitely need wisdom, patience and guidance that is not my own.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Book #2 for 2010
Book #1 was this book.
I still have about 30 pages left, but I can most certainly say that it is a WONDERFUL book! If you are interested in African cultures and seeing the harsh reality of life in some parts of Africa, then this is a must-read. It's comprised of several fictional short stories; however, don't let the label of "fiction" fool you. I'm sure these stories are very real in the lives of many people.
Book #2 is this book that I will be reading throughout the year. We're discussing this in Bloom (the name of our monthly meeting in our women's ministry). I'm only begun chapter 1, but I already see a quote that I must share.
The author is talking about gospel blindness. "Our sight is dimmed by the tyranny of the urgent, by the siren call of success, by the seductive beauty of physical things, by our inability to admit our own problems, and by the casual relationships witin the body of Christ that we mistakenly call fellowship. This blindness is often encouraged by preaching that fails to take the gospel to the specific challenges people face. People need to see that the gospel belongs in their workplace, their kitchen, their school, their bedroom, their backyard, and their van. They need to see the way the gospel makes a connection between what they are doing and what God is doing. They need to understand that their life stories are being lived out within God's larger story so that they can learn to live each day with a gospel mentality."
I still have about 30 pages left, but I can most certainly say that it is a WONDERFUL book! If you are interested in African cultures and seeing the harsh reality of life in some parts of Africa, then this is a must-read. It's comprised of several fictional short stories; however, don't let the label of "fiction" fool you. I'm sure these stories are very real in the lives of many people.
Book #2 is this book that I will be reading throughout the year. We're discussing this in Bloom (the name of our monthly meeting in our women's ministry). I'm only begun chapter 1, but I already see a quote that I must share.
The author is talking about gospel blindness. "Our sight is dimmed by the tyranny of the urgent, by the siren call of success, by the seductive beauty of physical things, by our inability to admit our own problems, and by the casual relationships witin the body of Christ that we mistakenly call fellowship. This blindness is often encouraged by preaching that fails to take the gospel to the specific challenges people face. People need to see that the gospel belongs in their workplace, their kitchen, their school, their bedroom, their backyard, and their van. They need to see the way the gospel makes a connection between what they are doing and what God is doing. They need to understand that their life stories are being lived out within God's larger story so that they can learn to live each day with a gospel mentality."
Monday, February 1, 2010
Sick times in the Hays' Household
I'm just going to follow the blog theme lately and tell you about our week of sickness. Yes, like everyone else we've seen the stomach bug and now another mystery bug come through our little home. The stomach bug attacked Dane last Saturday and he is now finally 100% over it's presence; however, I woke up to some mystery sickness yesterday. Slight nausea, body aches, low fever, chills/hot flashes, fatigue...all the sypmtoms that go with pretty much every ailness that could ever strike a human so don't worry about trying to WebMD it for me, I already tried. I was hoping to feel better in time to work on Tuesday, but I'm still feeling uneasy when I move around a lot. I hope to get a doctor's appointment tomorrow to figure out what in the world is wrong with me.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Before the sun rises
So have I mentioned that my husband is taking Hebrew at 7am on Tues through Friday this semester? Yes, that's Tuesday THROUGH not "and" Friday...4 days a week. Have I also mentioned that we ride to work/school together most days? Do you follow me? Amanda leaving her house each day at 6:45am = NO FUN. Will I adjust and continue riding with him or will I chicken out and start driving myself? Time will only tell. I'm so not a morning person.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
It's been a craft-filled month
So this has the potential to be my longest blog post yet. Dane has a touch of the stomach virus and I've been doing the typical Saturday activities of errands, laundry, cleaning and relaxing. I'm also watching Julie and Julia in the midst of all of these random things. I want to share with you some of my projects that I completed over Christmas. One thing I discovered after uploading these pictures is that my camera is terrible or that I am a terrible photographer so please excuse the blurry photos.
The first of many crafts were the towel wraps that I made for my sisters-in-law and nieces.
Here are some close-up pictures of the designs.
For our Bloom (the name of a group in our women's ministry) Christmas party we have one amazing party! Each person makes/buys 8 gifts. When you arrive your are divided up into teams (snowmen, trees, candy canes, etc.). Each team gets a turn for each person to go pick 1 gift. You continue this until all teams have gone 8 times so each person finishes with 8 gifts. This was a great way to shop for yourself and for other small gifts that you need to give. Here are my 8 gifts that I made for the party.
Yes, I know there are 9 towels..one was a gift for a friend.
A wonderful coworker taught me to crochet flowers this fall so I've been searching for ways to use them. With two baby girl gifts that I needed to buy, I decided to add these flowers to some onesies for these two sweet baby girls. These flowers are definitely some of my favorite things to make!
My last crafty project would be my great grandmother's potholders. This craft has been passed down through my mom's family and now I'm happy to say that I have learned the art. These crocheted washcloth potholders are super easy to make and work so much better than the cheap potholders we used to use. There's no burning your hand through these!
In other news...Julia's voice on this movie is seriously getting on my nerves. I'm seeing that I'm not going to be a huge fan of this movie.
The first of many crafts were the towel wraps that I made for my sisters-in-law and nieces.
Here are some close-up pictures of the designs.
For our Bloom (the name of a group in our women's ministry) Christmas party we have one amazing party! Each person makes/buys 8 gifts. When you arrive your are divided up into teams (snowmen, trees, candy canes, etc.). Each team gets a turn for each person to go pick 1 gift. You continue this until all teams have gone 8 times so each person finishes with 8 gifts. This was a great way to shop for yourself and for other small gifts that you need to give. Here are my 8 gifts that I made for the party.
Yes, I know there are 9 towels..one was a gift for a friend.
A wonderful coworker taught me to crochet flowers this fall so I've been searching for ways to use them. With two baby girl gifts that I needed to buy, I decided to add these flowers to some onesies for these two sweet baby girls. These flowers are definitely some of my favorite things to make!
My last crafty project would be my great grandmother's potholders. This craft has been passed down through my mom's family and now I'm happy to say that I have learned the art. These crocheted washcloth potholders are super easy to make and work so much better than the cheap potholders we used to use. There's no burning your hand through these!
In other news...Julia's voice on this movie is seriously getting on my nerves. I'm seeing that I'm not going to be a huge fan of this movie.
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