What Really Matters Most

Thinking about my children, family and friends, I rejoice for how blessed they make me feel.
However long they are in my life, all of my friends and family bless me in so many ways, that I cannot rejoice enough on their behalf.
Then I see the mourning that comes with losing family and friends. My heart breaks as I mourn with those who are suffering the loss of loved ones. I know that my family and friends are mortal, just as I am a mere mortal.

But I am a BELOVED child of God. We are all children of the LOVING, Caring, and Merciful God!
He mourns with us, as he accepts angels into His loving arms, for he knows our pain and suffering.

He sacrificed His only Son, that we would have eternal life with Him.
How little comfort that may give those in the midst of despair of losing their own child. Let us pray for those who need to remember His ultimate sacrifice for us, and that He holds us in the palm of His hands, and sends comfort to those who need it through us. AMEN

"Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." —Romans 12:15

Prayer Surrounding Tragedy

When we hear of tragedy, many of us try to pray for peace, and strength for those involved.
I have a tendency to try to put myself in the shoes of those experiencing the tragedy, and feel such strong empathy that it often wipes me out emotionally.

Right now I cannot seem to put words together that make sense or sound good in reference to the shooting in Connecticut today.

Dear Lord,
I pray for the families and community in Sandy Hook Elementary School. Strength and healing will be necessary for all of them. I specifically pray for the parents who lost children to this act of pure evil. May the people around them remember that those moms and dads have suffered the worst possible fate for a parent...losing a child. They may never learn the reason why their children had to die. I pray for the law enforcement and investigators who have a long road ahead of them, as they try to make sense of the evil. May they be protected by Your love, Lord, and help them to offer answers and condolences to the parents and teachers who are grieving. Help all of your people, Lord, to not lose sight of the tragedy and evil, while we offer ourselves as Your light to those who are closest to the suffering.
AMEN

NetZero Wireless HotSpot Review & Giveaway!

Wow - I have never owned a Smart Phone - and really don't feel the need to own one.
I do have a laptop, a tablet, and an e-reader!
Now I can access the internet from wherever I find myself, with the benefit of my NetZero Wireless Hotspot! I LOVE it!!

I took my son to Chuck E. Cheese's the other day to let him play. I brought along my tablet, and was able to blog and shop online while he was playing!

The NetZero Wireless Hot Spot is EASY to use, and so small, that it just slips into my purse!

Using the HotSpot is as easy as pushing a button!
Hold down the power button for 5 seconds, and it turns on and begins searching for a signal.

As soon as it connects, it's easy to connect with up to 8 wireless devices using the subscription code posted on the screen.

I was waiting in the pick-up line at my children's elementary school, and I signed on to let my preschooler watch a movie on Netflix while we were waiting!

So cool!!

So, now that you've heard about a few of the exciting ways I've used my NetZero Wireless Hotspot, would you like to win one???

NetZero has offered me a NetZero 4G Hotspot for one lucky reader!! They provide portable internet without the worry of public Wi-Fi and work with up to 8 internet enabled devices. It's compact and durable, with a battery life of up to 6 hours. You will receive super fast 4G internet on-the-go. More information is available at www.NetZero.net. The giveaway prize is a NetZero Hotspot plus three months of platinum service (worth $49.95 per month). The winner must live in the U.S. This is a $300 value!! Sign up HERE to win!!! a Rafflecopter giveaway In exchange for this post, I received a Hotspot plus one year of platinum service. Platinum service is the best service offered and includes 4 gigabytes or monthly usage. The service alone retails at $49.95 per month. My compensation is an $800 value.

Spirited Children VS Tired Mommy

I am always tired. Fatigue is a side-effect of my job!

I love to play with my children, and laugh with them. Seeing their smiles seems to give me more energy. But there is a vicious cycle of grumpiness caused by tired mommy that seems to get in the way of having fun with my kids.

My youngest boy is four and a half years old, and is a very spirited child. He is stubborn, fun, and very entertaining! He loves to be the clown, and the center of attention.
But he also loves to ignore directions and do his own thing, just to get attention.

I am striving to pay more positive attention to my little man BEFORE he gets to the point of misbehaving. This should potentially give me more energy in the long run, since his whining drains my patience much more than playing with him!

Dear Lord,
Please help me to provide my children with all of the attention and positive reinforcement they need to be healthy and successful in their play. Help me to remember that my children need me and my support, and not my nagging and reprimanding. I want to enjoy playing with my children more, and appreciate them as gifts from You. ~ AMEN

Musical Monday ~ "Strong Tower"

I'm a day behind! Ahh! Oh well, this song has been on my heart lately.
I hope it blesses you!



"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." Psalm 18:2



You are my strong tower!
Shelter over me.
Beautiful and mighty.
Everlasting king.
Your mercy sets me free!
You are my strong tower.
Fortress when I'm weak
Your Name is true and holy
You are my strong tower
Shelter over me
Beautiful and mighty
Everylasting king!
You are my strong tower, and your face is all I see.

I struggled to understand this song and verse for the longest time.
Now, just signing it, and praying the actual verse aloud, I feel the power of God in me.

Pray this aloud with me today:
"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." AMEN

"Rise of the Guardians" Represents Hope, Wonder, Dreams and Memories

"Hope, Wonder, Dreams and Memories are depicted in Rise of the Guardians", says Peter Ramsey, Director.

Rise of the Guardians is a film about the Heroes that Guard the Innocence, Dreams, and Beliefs of Childhood:
Jack Frost, North (Santa), Toothfairy, Easter Bunny, and Sandman.
These imaginative characters take on "The Boogyman", Pitch Black, and his "Night Mares". When I had the opportunity to interview Peter Ramsey, I asked him how Christians and families might interpret the film.
"Having some kind of imagination and make-believe is important for kids. Our Santa, and all of our Guardians represent GREAT HUMAN VALUES. Period. We want all children to be exposed to these values. We kept it real. Everyone who worked on the film felt like it was good to work on a project about POSITIVE things.

I would have to agree!

I really enjoyed the film, but was rather shocked about the fact that "North", the character who represents Santa Claus, had tattoos!!

When I asked Mr. Ramsey about North, he responded, "North is meant to be shocking, so you would kinda wake up and look at him in a slightly different way. Hopefully you start to realize things you had not thought about for a long time. He’s a warrior for children, who will do anything to protect kids. He has different sides to him, but it will all come together to show he will go to all lengths to do anything for kids. Wild & untamed force of nature and passionate about what he does. Gives him an edge, and passion."

The intensity of North is balanced well by the cute little Elves! They were extremely humorous and entertaining, in a simplistic way!

My children and I really enjoyed watching "Rise of the Guardians" and highly recommend the positive message of Hope that comes across when Good Prevails over the realistic scary nightmares brought about by fear!

As Peter Ramsey says, "The movie is about basic things like hope, dreams, wonder and memory. Everybody feels those things."

Find more information about the movie Rise of the Guardians HERE.

Musical Monday ~ "No Matter What"

I LOVE this song, and need to listen to it often to help me remember that
GOD loves me, no matter what!

I hope Kerrie Roberts' song blesses you as much as I feel blessed when I listen!



"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8

"I’m convinced that nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus our Lord: not death or life, not angels or rulers, not present things or future things, not powers or height or depth, or any other thing that is created." Romans 8:38-39

Thankful Thursday ~ Extended Family

Today I am very thankful for my extended family.
I married into a family one generation off from my own.
In other words, my grandmother graduated from high school with my mother-in-law. So, my uncles and aunts are the ages of my sister-in-laws.
When I met my husband, he told me he was the youngest of 5, and the only boy! Yikes! How was I to fit in with 4 older sisters??
I am the oldest of 4. Opposites attract for sure! I am a typical oldest child, a pleaser, and perfectionist in many things. I have always been sure of myself, and never questioned that I could accomplish anything I put my mind to.
My husband is more of an only-child and baby combined. He's the only boy, and the youngest. We really do but heads sometimes, since we are both very stubborn. But, I don't have to worry about his family accepting me, like I had originally anticipated.

I have wonderful in-laws! They are all very accepting and gracious. They bless our family, as I had always hoped they would! I can count on my mother-in-law and sister-in-law who live nearby to babysit my kids every once in a while. Today, for instance, my youngest will spend the day with my sister-in-law, so I can indulge in a movie marathon with my girlfriends! My nieces will babysit my older two children when they get home from school. What a blessing!

My mom and sister also help out in these ways, and we all get together often!

I pray that all families can look past their differences, to bless each other and be kind to one another in all they do.

"Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord." Colossians 3:20

"Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let the house of Aaron say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let those who fear the Lord say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free." Psalm 118:1-18

Wordless Wednesday ~ World Diabetes Day

Today we pray for all families effected by Diabetes. It is such a terrible disease, that makes every day life torturous for some. Please, Lord, provide strength, peace, pain relief, and a CURE! Amen

"Rise Of the Guardians" GIVEAWAY - Passes to Sneak Peek 11/19

I have been offered the opportunity for 25 of my lucky viewers to accompany me to the Preview of the movie "Rise of the Guardians" on Monday, November 19!!

My 8-year-old daughter has been waiting and waiting for this movie to be released!

Would you like to see "Rise of the Guardians" before it is released?
My daughter and I will be there!

Simply fill out this Rafflecopter form for your chance to win!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

**A few disclaimers:
**This giveaway is ONLY available to those readers in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area, who can make it to the theater on November 19, 2012 before 7:00 p.m.
If you do win passes, you must arrive early to secure a seat. A pass does not guarantee entry, but simply the opportunity to view the movie if you get there early enough. These previews often sell out!

More about the movie, "RISE OF THE GUARDIANS": (In Digital 3D and 2D) An epic and magical adventure that tells the story of Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, the Sandman, and Jack Frost – legendary characters with previously unknown extraordinary abilities. When an evil spirit known as Pitch lays down the gauntlet to take over the world, the immortal Guardians must join forces to protect the hopes, beliefs and imagination of children everywhere. Starring the voices of Chris Pine, Alec Baldwin, Hugh Jackson, Isla Fisher and Jude Law. Directed by Peter Ramsey. (DREAMWORKS ANIMATION) Rated PG.

Blessings ~Kristen

Ignorance is NOT Bliss

Be kinder to those around you than you must, for each is fighting some kind of battle.
Everyone is living some kind of challenge.
Mine today is that mountain of laundry in my laundry room staring me in the face, daring me to wash, dry, fold and put away all of the towels, sheets, blankets, clothes, and other miscellaneous stuff in there!

Seriously, I am blessed to even have a laundry room, with a fully functioning washer and dryer. I don't take this for granted!

I still HATE doing the laundry!

Satan sends me so many distractions, including this computer. I really need to fight the evil influences, and get blessing my family through their laundry!

As silly as that may sound, that is how I look at it!

Whenever I am around people, I try to remember that everyone is fighting some kind of battle. It could be the battle of the laundry, or an addiction, abuse, or a case of very low self-esteem.

Be KINDER than you have to be to EVERYONE you meet!

Imagine, if everyone was KIND to you, while you are in the depths of your battle. Would kindness from others improve your mood? Change your outlook on life?
Kindness can do so much. Sometimes, all it takes is a SMILE to show someone how much God really loves them!

"For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves." 1 Peter 2:15-16

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

"Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins." 1 Peter 4:8

Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind." 1 Peter 3:8

"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." Ephesians 4:29

"...‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:31

Musical Monday ~ The Lost Get Found

My daughter and I attended the "Girls of Grace" Conference last weekend, and were very blessed to work with Britt Nicole's merchandising team!
Whitney and Dustin are very sweet, and so amazing to work with!

When Britt sang at the conference, she did not perform this song, but I have had it stuck in my mind for a few days. I have been praying for some of my friends who are feeling very lost right now. God KNOWS where you are, and how to lead you out, if you listen and seek his guidance.

"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin." 1 John 1:7

"For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light..." Ephesians 5:8

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Psalm 119:105

Listen to the song "The Lost Get Found" by Britt Nicole here:


Here are the lyrics to the song "The Lost Get Found" by Britt Nicole:

Hello my friend
I remember when you were
So alive with your wide eyes
Then the light that you had in your heart was stolen
Now you say that it ain't worth stayin'
You wanna run but you're hesitatin'
I'm talkin' to me
Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
Why don't you rise up now?
Don't be afraid to stand out
That's how the lost get found
The lost get found

So when you get the chance
Are you gonna take it?
There's a really big world at your fingertips
And you know you have the chance to change it
There's a girl on the streets, she's cryin'
There's a man whose faith is dyin'
Love is calling you

Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
Why don't you rise up now?
Don't be afraid to stand out
That's how the lost get found
The lost get found

Why do we go with the flow
Why take an easier road?
Why are we playin' it safe?
Love came to show us the way
Love is a chance we should take
I'm movin' out of the gray

Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
(Stand out)
Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire burn out
(Stand out)
'cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
Why don't you rise up now?
Don't be afraid to stand out
That's how the lost get found
The lost get found


So when you get the chance
Are you gonna take it?
There's a really big world at your fingertips
And you know you have the chance to change it

"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." Ephesians 2:8-9

God Bless Our Veterans!

I feel so blessed to live in the "Land of the Free". However, I am well aware of the sacrifice made by our veterans and active duty military to keep my freedom alive and well!

My brother is a Marine. My dad and grandfather were both in the Navy. I am proud to say THANK YOU to them, and all other families who have provided my right to say, "God Bless all of our Veterans".

I pray that they veterans will be blessed by God to know that they are appreciated by those they protect. I also pray for the families who have suffered the ultimate sacrifice with the death of a child, parent, uncle, aunt, grandparent, cousin, or extended family while they were serving US as protectors of our freedom. Amen

"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives..." Colossians 1:9

"The Heart of Christmas" Review and Giveaway

Rarely does a movie change my perspective in life.
I was given a preview of the heart-wrenching movie, "Heart of Christmas", and it truly changed my entire perspective on my family, and the lives of those around me.

As Christians, we are called to treat others as we would like to be treated.

Respect is not a common occurrence in our society, as we continue on our journey of seeking out the "best things" in life.

In this movie, Candace Cameron Bure plays a mom, who is actively doing what she thinks and feels is the best for her family. She's working from home, and focused on her job, and the money it will bring into their family budget to buy the best money can buy, and save for college.

The tension in the house is reminiscent of what all families go through, when parents are stressed, and kids are seeking attention. I can relate, and am sad to say that my time spent working on my laptop can take away from the oh-so-important FAMILY time that my husband and children need from me!

I cried more than once during this movie. The Christian heart of Dax's mom is amazing and inspiring. Needless to say, I pray that all of us do not ever have to learn what's important by losing a child!

I certainly gained a new perspective on prioritizing the REALLY important things in life when I watched "The Heart of Christmas". Every day matters. Cherishing every moment is really the MOST important thing of all.

I have been offered a copy of "The Heart of Christmas" on DVD to give away to ONE lucky reader!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Here is a little more information about the movie:
The Heart of Christmas tells the story of Austin and Julie Locke, who are devastated to learn that their young son, Dax, has been diagnosed with cancer. With courage, determination and faith, they decide to give Dax one last Christmas – even if it has to be in October. When the community sees the holiday decorations and learns the heartbreaking truth, what happens next is a miraculous outpouring of care and support. The Heart of Christmas will touch your heart and bring home the spirit of the holidays. In stores Tuesday, October 16th.

Wordless Wednesday

"Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words; the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you." Ephesians 4:29

Thankful Thursday ~ Babies

I miss my babies.
They are growing into amazing children, but I really, truly miss them being babies.
When my middle child had strep throat a couple of weeks ago, all he wanted to do was snuggle with me, like he did when he was a baby!
I LOVED IT! I dropped all of the chores on my list, and just snuggled with him! Now, he's over 4' tall, and in Kindergarten, but I didn't care! He is still my baby.

My youngest is very adamant that he is NOT a baby - but he will always be my baby.

My baby girl will ALWAYS be my little princess. She's an intelligent, beauitful, talented 8 years old already, but she'll always be my baby.

I am so thankful for my babies today!
They have given me a totally new perspective on life.
My own life, the lives of those I love, and especially my own mother. I could never have imagined the love I experience every day that I am so thankful for my own children.

God bless the babies, and their mommies, every day! Help us mommies to remember how sweet and loving our babies were before they turned into the children they are today! Amen

Musical Monday ~ "Mighty To Save" by Jeremy Camp

"Mighty To Save"

Everyone needs compassion
Love that's never failing
Let mercy fall on me

Everyone needs forgiveness
The kindness of a Savior
The hope of nations

Savior, He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save
He is mighty to save

Forever, author of salvation
He rose and conquered the grave
Jesus conquered the grave

So take me as You find me
All my fears and failures
Fill my life again

I give my life to follow
Everything I believe in
Now I surrender

My Savior, He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save
He is mighty to save

Forever, author of salvation
He rose and conquered the grave
Jesus conquered the grave

Shine your light and let the whole world see
We're singing for the glory of the risen King, Jesus
We're singing for the glory of the risen King, Jesus

My Savior, He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save
He is mighty to save

Forever, author of salvation
He rose and conquered the grave
Jesus conquered the grave

My Savior, You can move the mountains
You are mighty to save
You are mighty to save

Forever, author of Salvation
You rose and conquered the grave
Yes, You conquered the grave



Click Here to listen to "Mighty To Save" by Jeremy Camp

"The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17

Angry Mommy ~ Praying for Patience

My poor little four-year-old is in a screaming stage.
I am at my wits' end!
I really don't know what to do with him!!
There. I said it.

Okay, it has been a really rough week. I love my son. He is my baby, but he has really been acting like just that. A BABY!!

Screaming fits, even in public.
This week I have been that humiliated mommy, who walks out of the store, with her screaming preschooler following a distance behind.
People stare, and I really don't care what they think.
I do, however, care what I am teaching my son through my reactions to his behavior.

I don't know what's causing these tantrums, or the fact that he is inconsolable. Normally he is easy to reason with, and can be easily distracted, as most four-year-olds can be.

I have resorted to throwing him over my shoulder, carrying him to his bed, and spanking him!

Yes, I spank him!

There are so many other things I could do, but spanking seems to be the ONLY thing that's getting through to him!
My other children responded well to other consequences.
My baby is not responding well to any consequences, other than spanking, and being put in bed.

Daddy and I are suffering too. We went out for dinner on Wednesday night, and the baby had a melt down, and refused to go use the bathroom, even though he was doing the potty dance. He had already thrown a screaming fit for me earlier in the day. Daddy graciously took him outside to remove him from the audience he so loves, and talk some sense with him.
Daddy and baby ended up in the car for the entire time the rest of the family was eating dinner.

Daddy heated up his food when we got home, while I put the kids to bed. Baby didn't eat at all.

Boy, was he HUNGRY the next morning!

Dear Lord,
Please grant me the patience I need to teach my baby boy how to communicate his disappointment, fears, sadness, and other negative feelings in a healthy way. Please help me to respond appropriately when he chooses to scream or disobey. Help me, Lord, to remember that You planned this child to be mine, and that I am the best mother for him, according to Your plan! Direct my heart, Lord, as I guide my son to be the big boy that You have planned for him to be! AMEN

"With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love..." Ephesians 4:2

"Better is the end of a thing than its beginning, and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit." Ecclesiastes 7:8

"Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the bosom of fools." Ecclesiastes 7:9

"For you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." James 1:3-4

Wordless Wednesday ~ Our God Is An AWESOME God!

Serving Others ~ Serving God

I am often volunteering myself to do something for other people.
My husband has declared that he does not need to volunteer, because I do enough for the both of us.

My mother has asked me if I'm short-changing my family, because I am giving of myself to other people.

Well, I certainly hope not!
I have a hard time saying no to people, when asked to do something that I enjoy doing!
I LOVE to be at my children's school, helping out the teachers and staff.
I LOVE to organize Coffee and Donuts at my church, and see the pleased looks on the kids' faces as they get to choose any sugary doughnut they want after church!
I LOVE to organize the parties for my kids' classrooms.
I LOVE to coordinate after school activities like Odyssey of the Mind.

In my mind, I do these things to serve my family, and my community.

I also do these things in attempt to serve God.
He has blessed me with so many talents, and so much treasure, that I really do enjoy sharing them with others. I don't always reap the benefits of people recognizing how much work I put in, as so many are not aware. But GOD is aware! He knows the motivation of my heart, and the energy I spend blessing other people because he has made me able!

Dear Lord, Thank you for the talents and treasures you have blessed me with. Help me to be an example for my children, of how to spread Your love to others, through service and love. Help me to remember that the only gratification I really need comes from You, Heavenly Father. Amen

"Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38

"In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35

"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen." 1 Peter 4:10-11

Nurse Mommy to the Rescue!

My poor little man is sick.
He is sitting beside me shivering, despite his fever, and sniffling like crazy.

I kept him home from all-day Kindergarten today, so he could rest. He really needs it!

I am not a nurse, but mommy always gets to play nurse when the kids or daddy is sick!

Some things that make Nurse Mommy's job easier are remembering how you feel when you are sick. You like to be talked to gently, have your every need brought to you, and just to rest in quiet.

I am trying really hard to remind my little man that he needs to drink lots of liquids. He is allowed to have gatorade or Kool-Aid and other drinks he might not normally get to drink.

He says he's not hungry, and I think it hurts to swallow. So, I will make him soup, jello, and whatever else his little tummy thinks it can handle.

Dear Lord,
Please heal my little man. Help me to know what he needs to get better quickly. Grant me the patience to see him as my little patient, and to nurture him through this tough time. Help me, Lord, to remember that he is sick, and needs me to be understanding, and accepting that he may whine a bit more than usual, and that it's not because he's naughty. He whines because he doesn't feel well! Amen

"Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you." 1 Peter 5:7-10

Metamorphosis ~ Change Your Heart

I have had tons of pain in my abdomen lately. Actually, for the past 6 years!
Well, it is time for a change! My doctors have prescribed me some medication that is helping, but I will probably have to have surgery.
The time of my life to think about not being able to have more children is here. The notion of not having a uterus is daunting. I know I am still a woman, but not having those reproductive parts of my body is scary, and makes me sad.

God has given us everything we have. When we have to give something away, or something is taken away from us, we often feel the loss for a very long time.

My heart is terrified, sad, and worried about potential side effects.

I have to remember that God made my body the way He did for a reason!
We were made to bring Him glory, and I have to remember that everything happens for His reasons.


Dear Lord,
Please protect my heart from my worldly fears. I do not let pain rule my life, as I strive for Your commands to be the ruler of my heart. Transform my heart to open up to Your love, comfort, and strength. As I work with the doctors here on Earth, I pray that You will be my Heavenly Physician, the One who created my body, and help us to know Your will. Amen

"Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body." 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

"I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:1-2

"It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body." 1 Corinthians 15:44

Wordless Wednesday ~ God Bless The Broken Road ~ Rascal Flatts

Giving Blesses Us MORE than Receiving!

At our favorite Aldi store this weekend, there were people collecting donations for our local food pantry.

I told my children to each find something in the store that they like to eat, and we would buy it to give to people that don't have any food.

My children were so willing to shop and give! They acted like it was Christmas, and they were getting gifts!

All three of them went right to the fresh fruits and veggies! I hated to explain to them that the food pantries only accept donations of canned and boxed food that won't go bad. They made the transition, and went hunting for good food to give.

My eight-year-old daughter chose Beef Stew! I was surprised by that choice.
My five-year-old son chose Corn Chex! Cereal is one of his favorite foods for sure.
My four-year-old son chose Spaghetti O's! No surprise there!

The food pantry volunteers were so thankful, and blessed us as we left, and commented on what a good lesson in giving my children experienced that day!

How do you GIVE?
How do you encourage your children to be givers?

My children and I agree, it is better to give than to receive!

"He who is generous will be blessed, for he gives some of his food to the poor." Proverbs 22:9

"Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return." Luke 6:38

Strength in Time of Need

There are so many families out there going through tough times.

I am blessed that my family is healthy, and that we work through our tough times together.

Tonight I feel called to pray for those families who are in need of strength, encouragement, and healing.

Dear Lord, Please protect the hearts of the mommies and daddies out there who are struggling. Send them Your strength and conviction, to make it through. Lord, You say You are the Master of our hearts. Please help our minds to understand and our hearts to Trust in You Lord! Amen

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

"But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7

Wordless Wednesday ~ Apples

~Kristen

Following God, Not Society

So many times I catch myself judging others, or being critical of others, or even envious of what others have in their lives.
I am not lacking in anything. I am so blessed with a beautiful family, a wonderful husband, amazing children, and a beautiful home. Yet, it is human nature to desire what we do not have.

Society tells us we should have the latest technology, creature comforts, and the best of everything.

It is difficult to put aside these societal expectations to follow the Lord!

I am the first to admit that I find it difficult to not go out and shop for new clothes, household items, and luxurious items we do not need.

I am striving to follow the Lord my God, and revere his word.

I am really trying to obey his commands, and serve everyone around me through Him.

Dear Lord, guide me to hold fast to Your word and commands. Help me to remember that if I serve You, others will be blessed by my actions and choices. Make me a better wife, mother, daughter, and friend. AMEN


"It is the LORD your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him." Deuteronomy 13:4

Wordless Wednesday "RAWR"

Baby Starts Preschool!!

My baby started preschool!!

I cried when I dropped my oldest child off at preschool.
I cried AFTER I dropped my second child off at preschool.
I CELEBRATED when I dropped my baby off at preschool!

The differences in my emotions have a little to do with the personalities of my children, and the fact that I am comfortable with my children being at school, away from me, and learning wonderful things that they can only learn from other people!

I love my children, and miss them all terribly while they are at school.
However, I have a newly found sense of self, now that I can do what I want to do for a few hours every day. I don't have to worry about anyone, other than myself! What a new feeling! At least it feels new.

It has been over 8 years since I have been able to focus on my own wishes and desires. My daughter just started her Third Grade year, and I am excited, yet sad, that she is so big!
I have a son in full-day Kindergarten! My baby boy is in preschool three mornings a week.

Three mornings, all to myself!

What to do???

Well, I am going to pray, blog, and attempt to discover what God's plan is for me in this next phase of life.

I am also going to take a few naps, because after school I am running my children from school to dance lessons, soccer practice, and feeding them. We almost have enough time for baths before bedtime!

My mornings will have to be my quiet time.

Wow - it's been a LONG time since I've had quiet time!!

SHhhhhhh......

~Kristen


"Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices!" Psalm 37:7

Wordless Wednesday - "King of the World"

~Kristen


"On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: king of kings and lord of lords." Revelation 19:16

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~Kristen


"And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD." Psalm 40:3

Mixed Emotions as My Kids Start School

I wrote about my princess starting 3rd grade last week.
My oldest prince started FULL-DAY Kindergarten last week as well.

He was SOOOO excited, but also a little nervous. I can't blame him!

This is my child who will sit back, and observe any new experience, making sure he can be safe and successful BEFORE he will even participate in any way.

Luckily, we had a bus ride under our belt, from the open house trip, where the entire family got to climb on the school bus and ride together!

He had met his teacher, and a couple of the kids in his class.

Yet, I could tell he did not know quite how to feel about this new adventure.

I have been praying for him, and have visited the school a few times just to check on him.

He has been doing a FANTASTIC job of playing nicely at school, and is excited to get up and go to school every day. He is learning, and his teacher says he seems to be enjoying being at school all day.

I, on the other hand, do not enjoy missing him all day long, and knowing that my 5-year-old is away from me, learning from someone that is not his Mommy!!

I am NOT a supporter of all day Kindergarten, but I know we are truly blessed by WONDERFUL teachers who know how to support our children and help them learn, all day long!

I continue to pray for my children as they learn and move forward on their educational journey.

~Kristen


"Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith." Galatians 3:24

First Week of School, New Routines

So, we are at the end of our first week of the new school year.
I am enjoying the stages each of my children are entering this year.

My princess is in the Third Grade.

She has a male teacher this year, which is a first for our family.
I was worried at first, that a young, male teacher may not be well equipped to handle the drama of little girls who are eight or nine years old. Well, my daughter won't be the only one having these emotional roller coaster days. This teacher will learn quickly!

I prayed, and prayed, and prayed for all three of my children, as they start school this year.
I especially prayed that they each be placed in a class where the Light of Jesus can shine bright through them, onto the teachers, students, and everyone they meet.

My prayer also included that they be challenged and learn life lessons at school that will help them become more like Jesus.

The teacher in each classroom helps to form a part of each student!
It is very important that parents remember that teachers are people too, with their own lives, beliefs, and standards. Students should be taught to respect everyone, but especially their teachers, as they are important role models. Children spend more hours in a day with their teacher, than with their parents during the school year!


Dear Lord,
Today I lift up all teachers, as they help to mold our young children into what you have designed them to be. May teachers and parents work together to bring Glory to You, Lord, through our children. May Your light pour out through our children, as well as their teachers, Lord, as they teach each other important life lessons in school.
May all teachers see our children as important, wonderful, and beautiful miracles, and treat them accordingly. Please help all parents to trust their childrens' teachers to be appropriate role models, and guide those teachers to lead our students down Your Paths of Righteousness.
AMEN

Wordless Wednesday ~< September 5, 2012

~Kristen

Bless the Workers on Labor Day

As the summer draws to a close, I am reminded of how hard my husband works to provide for our family.

I am very blessed to be a stay-at-home mother to our three children, while my husband designs new products as a mechanical engineer.

There are so many choices we make that effect our family, and today I lift up all working parents.

Dear Lord, Please bless these mothers and fathers, as they provide for their families with all you have sent to bless them. You, Lord, have provided them with jobs to support their families in our world. I pray that all parents may be blessed and thankful for Your love and support. May their performance in each of their jobs reflect back upon Your goodness, as well as provide strength and support their families. AMEN

"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15

Wordless Wednesday

~Kristen

Time = Love

I love my children.
I tell them, "I love you" often.
What children need the most is for your love to be shown through spending TIME with them!
Take time out of your busy schedule to do something with each of your children.
It does not have to be anything huge, or complicated, or even time consuming.

Set aside your laptop for long enough to HUG your child.
Walk away from the dishes for a few minutes to read a book with your kids.
Leave the laundry for a little while and go for a walk.
Take the time to talk to your kids.
Play a game - even a short one.

Your children will feel loved, and you will feel them loving you back.

You may even start recognizing the small blessings you have, by seeing things in your children you never noticed before.

I took my children camping earlier this week.
We were forced to spend time together, and the children were forced to help me keep the campsite orderly in order to stay there.
We had so much fun, and I was able to spend quality time with my kids.
There were no televisions, or other screens, to distract the kids, or myself. No internet, no telephone.
Just each others company.

I learned that my daughter is happy reading, no matter where she is.
My oldest son is a GREAT fisherman, and remembers to pray before meals, even when we are camping!
My youngest child is really good at cleaning up, and when given a job, does his best to overachieve!

These are qualities I am sure they exhibit at home, but that I may be too busy to see, because I am attached to my laptop, or busy keeping house.

Spend TIME with your children, and they will KNOW that you love them by your time!

It's Okay to Be Different!

I love the Golden Rule - that we are to love everyone as God loves us.

It is much easier said than done, and even harder to teach our children.

We surround ourselves with people who are all different. Tolerance of differences is a rare quality to see in our society today. There is just so much fear, ignorance, and hate toward anyone who is different.

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

God tells us that we are to be KIND to one another. That does not mean we need to abandon our own beliefs and stand with those who think differently than we do. However, it does mean that we are not to attack or think poorly of those who have different ideas than our own.

I think of the recent Chick-Fil-A incidents, in which one of the owners/CEO's of the company made a stand upholding marriage as between one man and one woman. The company was founded on Christian principles, and is not open on Sunday. I have never eaten at a Chick-Fil-A. It does not matter whether the owners are Christian or not. All of their employees may or may not be Christian. They treat all employees and customers equally. The statement made by the CEO happens to align with my own beliefs. Does that mean I support the company of Chick-Fil-A? No, not necessarily.

Many people have over-reacted and put more value in the "statement" made by the company. This video shows only one example:

Let's NOT be like this man, who got fired from his job because of his behavior.

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:2

Let's plan on watching the movie "The Odd Life of Timothy Green" - which promotes being different as a good thing!!

Fear in Mommy's Heart

Every mommy fears for their children.
Fear is something that occurs in every mommy's heart, and I don't think it ever leaves. Even as our children grow, and have more courage than we could ever imagine, we continue to fear for them.

I have often said that simple events like well-child check-ups at the doctors office, when the kids have to receive shots, are harder on the parents than they are on the kids.

I always spend these moments in prayer. Praying seems to settle my heart, and give me a little peace, even though my heart still aches for my babies.

When my little men begged me to let them ride on a monster truck at the auto expo recently, my heart was in my throat, just thinking about it!
I asked their father, who is one of the most cautious people I know, and he thought it would be okay.
WOW!

So, I paid the $15 and let the boys climb up onto this GIGANTIC monster truck - thinking that the Lord would protect them, and they would be just fine, since the truck was only going to be driving around the parking lot.

I started to take video, and continued to pray that the angels would act as the seat belts for my babies, as they were riding. My littlest man kept leaning over the edge of the truck watching the tires!!!
AHHHHH!!

Then the truck started doing DONUTS in the parking lot, and I had visions of my boys being thrown out of the truck, and being run over by those giant tires.

I had to turn off the video camera and pray even harder!
I asked one of the gentleman working the monster truck exhibit if my boys were okay up there, and if they would slow down so they wouldn't fall out.
He assured me that they were safe, and commented that they charge extra for having people fall out!!!

Okay, I was seriously AFRAID for my boys' lives!!
They survived, as did I.

Every time I think of this event, I get very tense, and fear takes over. I have to remember that God is in control, and that my boys will always have more courage than me!

"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." Deuteronomy 31:6

"The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1

Psalm 56:3-4 When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?

Isaiah 41:13 For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.

Wordless Wednesday - New Pets!

Yes, we're a day late, but only because I was too busy acclimating our new pets to our home!

~Kristen

Movie Preview - "The Odd Life of Timothy Green"

I love movies - especially most Disney movies.

This summer, they are releasing "The Odd Life of Timothy Green", and it looks very cute!

Check out this preview:


I plan to see it when it comes out!
What do you think?

~Kristen

Trying Tuesday....Up In The Night

My youngest son, age 4, woke up around 2:30 a.m. on Sunday evening, moaning and whining.

I went into his room to see what was wrong, only to find he had thrown up, all over his bed.
Poor baby!

I picked him up, resulting in my own pajamas becoming covered in his vomit. I carried him to the bathroom, and gently placed him in the bathtub. He was so excited to take a bath in the middle of the night. He acted like nothing was wrong, except that he was covered in gross stuff.

We rinsed him off, and I let him play in the tub, while I stripped his bed, and sprayed Lysol to kill any germs.

Throughout all of this, my older two children woke up wondering what in the world was going on.

Of course, once I got the baby out of the tub, and snuggled him dry, everyone was wide awake, except for me.

I managed to get clean sheets & blankets on his bed, and snuggle him back to sleep. The older two eventually fell back asleep as well, but only after I had gone downstairs to put the soiled bedding in the washing machine.

I spent over 2 hours in the middle of the night taking care of my babies, one of whom was sick.

Yes, my job as a mommy is to be there for my children 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

I don't get coffee breaks or lunch hours, let alone a day off!

I would not trade it for the world!!

My sweet little man felt better in the morning, and I was able to rest the day away with him, since I did not get as much sleep as I needed.


I prayed over my son as I bathed him.
I prayed over his bed as I changed the sheets, that the Lord would bless his dreams, and heal his little body as he slept.
I prayed over my older two children as they stumbled into my room, asking me to turn off the music I had chosen to help them get back to sleep.

You can pray over your children at any time. Thoughtful prayer will help you soothe you, even when exhausted, and provide a tired mommy with peace in caring for their children.

"Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints..." Ephesians 6:18

"Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words." Romans 8:26

Teaching Children is NOT easy!

I am a teacher by profession, a mother by blessing!

I love to teach others about anything and everything.
I often learn so much from teaching others, that I feel so very blessed.

When it comes to teaching my own children, however, I feel more than a little overwhelmed.
My oldest is just like me. She enjoys reading, language, and the arts. She is really easy for me to teach, because I can relate to her, and how she learns.

My first son, however, is just like his daddy. Daddy is a Mechanical Engineer. Let's just say, I don't speak engineering. At all!
I have a really hard time relating to how my middle child's brain works. He wants to build and design things. I want to play with him, and teach him, but my brain just doesn't work that way!!
He DOES enjoy cleaning, and organizing. I am enjoying teaching him those skills!

My youngest child is my biggest challenge yet. He is a really good combination of Daddy and me. I am really not sure how to get through to him most days. He does NOT want to learn to write his name. He has no interest in cleaning up, or any "organized" games. Granted, he is only four years old! But, as my baby, he is challenging!

I do know that God gave me these children because He knows I am the BEST mother for them. I pray every day that God will gift me with the patience, knowledge, and tools to teach my children what He wants them to know.

All three of my babies are bound to my heart, continually. I strive to tie them around my neck, even when I want to wring theirs!

"My son, observe the commandment of your father;
And do not forsake the teaching of your mother;
Bind them continually on your heart;
Tie them around your neck."
Proverbs 6:20,21

~Kristen

Wordless Wednesday - Start of Summer

Wordless Wednesday!
Beginning of Summer


~Kristen

National Day of Prayer

I didn't vote for our current president.
I don't agree with many of his policies.

I am going to pray for him today!

Today is the National Day of Prayer, and Christians all across the United States of America will be lifting our nation, its leaders, institutions, and residents up in prayer to our Lord.

You can join in this chorus, and let God know that we believe He is in charge, and His will rules our hearts.

Dear Lord,
We live in a country full of freedoms, that You have given us.
Thank You, Lord, for our leaders, and their talents. Please grant them the knowledge, forethought, and grace to act in dignity and make this nation a better place for Your people.

Please bless our military, Lord, as they protect our God-given rights. Provide them with knowledge and communication that may supersede force in solving conflicts.

We lift up our institutions, including education, health, welfare, and industry. May the leaders in these areas of our lives look to You, Lord, for guidance and instruction in providing for Your people. Please open their hearts, Lord, that they may run our country in a manner which keeps Your people healthy in body, mind, and spirit.

I especially pray for our schools, Lord. May our students be surrounded by Your Glory, in their teachers, administration, and their classmates.

For those in our World that do not know You Lord, let Your faithful followers be beacons of Your Love, and let our actions, prayers, and attitudes Shine with Your Love. Please let all of my fellow Americans see more of You and less of me.
Amen

For more information about the National Day of Prayer, visit http://nationaldayofprayer.org/
There are prayer guides, as well as a guide of events where Christians will be gathering to pray together all across the country.

I pray that these gatherings will bless those who attend, as well as the prayers they lift up to the Lord.

Wordless Wednesday ~ First Communion Celebration~

~Kristen

Burger King's New Menu Items & GIVEAWAY!

My family loves to go out to eat!
It sure can get expensive. Even a fast food meal costs our family over $20!

Well, recently, MyBlogSpark approached me and asked if we would like to try out Burger King's new menu items, if they provided us a $25 gift card to buy our meal. My family jumped at the chance!

We had lots of new delicious-looking options to choose from!


Since 1954 BURGER KING® has been committed to offering great-tasting, fire-grilled food and the WHOPPER® Sandwich has been proved to be America’s Favorite Burger year after year.
Over the past nine months, BURGER KING® has created and tested more than two dozen new products and they are committed to providing you with the products that are best-in-class and true to their heritage of great taste.
Based on extensive consumer feedback, BURGER KING® is rounding out their menu to provide more choice and something for everyone!
Visit the nearest participating BURGER KING® to try any one of these new options with your friends and family today!


We went to our local Burger King, where my boys ordered the New Chicken Strips.


I ordered one of each of the new Chicken Snack Wraps, one with Ranch, and the other with Honey Mustard!


And I have enough left over to go for a new Mocha Frappe later this week. I cannot wait to try it!

My boys LOVED the chicken strips! I have never seen them eat chicken so quickly without needed to be reminded!

My snack wraps were actually very tasty!
I would have preferred a little more lettuce in them, but the chicken was juicy, and tasted really good. There was just the right amount of sauce, and the tortillas were tasty.

I will be going back to try one of their new salads. I was just not in the salad mood when we were there!
Just look at these new salads:

New Garden Fresh Salads at BURGER KING® are made fresh daily with premium ingredients that can be topped with your choice of TENDERCRISP® or juicy TENDERGRILL® chicken. Varieties include:
Chicken BLT Garden Fresh Salad ~ made with a three cheese blend, thick cut bacon, tomatoes and red onion, served with Ken’s® Avocado Ranch dressing
Chicken, Apple and Cranberry Garden Fresh Salad ~ made with crisp apples, dried cranberries, bleu cheese and Ken’s® Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Chicken Caesar Garden Fresh Salad ~ made with 100% romaine lettuce, tomatoes, shaved parmesan cheese, and home-style croutons


MyBlogSpark has also offered me an additional $25 Gift Card to GIVEAWAY to one of my lucky readers!!

Enter to WIN a $25 Crown Card to Burger King using the Rafflecopter below!

MARVEL'S The Avengers GIVEAWAY!

MARVEL’S THE AVENGERS opens in theatres everywhere next Friday, May 4th!!

My husband cannot wait to see this movie, and while I don't normally watch movies based on comic books, this one looks great!

I am extremely excited to have been chosen to offer the chance to win a MARVEL’S THE AVENGERS prize pack to my readers!
The MARVEL'S The Avengers Prize Pack includes an adult sized t-shirt, set of 6 buttons and one pair of limited edition 3D glasses!

My review of the movie will be coming next week!
Until then, enjoy the following clip...and enter to WIN!!

"Assemble Clip"

Screen Time vs. People Time

My 5-year-old son LOVES his screen time!
He can pick up any device with a screen, and he just knows what to do!
We have a Toshiba Thrive tablet, which he adores. He can also play any game better than I can.

Well, he does love to watch television, he hates going to the movie theatre.
There are just too many people there!

I am torn!
I love to go to the movies.
The big screen, buttery popcorn, and reactions of other people really appeal to my sense of adventure.

Since he has been in preschool this year, he has come out of his shell, and made some friends his own age. I pray that he continues to connect with other people, when he enters Kindergarten next year. I need for him to have friends!

Today's prayer is for those of our children who we see as good kids, but who may need a little extra understanding as the come into their own personalities.

I especially think of my middle child, who at age 5 continues to be a "pleaser", and wants to clean up, organize, and generally help me out in whatever way he can! He is so sweet, quiet, and unimposing, that I almost forget he is almost 5! This little man is a blessing, and I pray that I continue to see him as such!

"But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

God Created Animals ~ Kids LOVE Animals!

My children ADORE animals!

My daughter loves horses, kittens, and mice.
My oldest son loves giraffes and elephants.
My youngest loves anything that lives under the sea, but especially whales and hippos.

As you can imagine, we love to visit zoos and aquariums, and can't get enough of any pet store or animal encounter!

We love to watch nature shows and movies too!

They have seen the previews for the new movie "Disneynature’s CHIMPANZEE" and keep asking to see it!


Since "Chimpanzee" does not hit theatres until April 20, we are making due with the what is on the web!

Here is my boys' favorite photo from the movie promotional material so far:


The newest feature is the music video below - "Rise" by the McClain Sisters. I hope you enjoy it as much as my children and I do!



“Rise,” written and performed by McClain Sisters after being inspired by Disneynature’s feature film CHIMPANZEE, is the latest Disney Friends for Change anthem. With the motivating lyrics “Together we can do anything,” the song captures the central message of the program: when kids and families work together, they can inspire each other and their communities to make a lasting, positive change in the world. “Rise” is the fourth Friends for Change anthem to be released with a benefit back to the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund. This contribution marks nearly $1 million awarded through the music campaign to charities working to protect the planet and conserve nature for future generations.

We are looking very forward to the movie premiering in theatres, and will be first in line to see the beauty of "Disneynature's Chimpanzees" on April 20, 2012!!


"So God created the great sea creatures and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarm, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good." ~Genesis 1:21
"Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” ~Genesis 1:26

March Moola Madness Giveaway HOP!

We LOVE College Basketball around here - almost as much as we love saving money!

So, we have partnered up with a few other bloggers, and two sponsors to bring you the

Mommy's Bible Blog is giving away a Grab Bag of Laura Mercier Cosmetics worth between $70 and $100!!

Simply enter to win in my Rafflecopter form below for your chance to win the Grab Bag of Laura Mercier products!

I'm not sure which products I'll be able to get my hands on - but I do know it will include a "Tinted Moisturizer Travel Set" - which includes
Nude Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 (1.5 oz.)
Nude Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 (1.0 oz.)
Foundation Primer (.5 oz)
AND A LIGHT-UP LIPGLOSS from Artistry!


The first 2 entries are MANDATORY!!
YOU MUST SUBMIT a prayer request/favorite Bible verse in the comments, and tell me a gift request, in order for the rest of your entries to be valid!

Sorry, but since I spend my own time and money on the giveaways, the least you can do is read and follow directions to be eligible for the prizes!
:) God Bless you!

Meet WOOLA, the Martian "Dog" from Disney's "John Carter"

My daughter and I were thrilled to experience Disney's new film, "John Carter" in 3D last week.
She continues to ask when we can buy it on DVD to watch at home!

I am thrilled to introduce you to Woola!



By far, Woola was our favorite character in the movie! He is the martian dog-like creature who, despite his not so adorable appearance, has the most loveable personality!

Please enjoy this fun clip of Woola:


Then head to your local theatre to experience the creative display of science fiction brought to you by Disney!

Click here to see my original review of the movie.

Enjoy & may God Bless you!
~Kristen

Spring Cleaning Giveaway! WIN An iRobot ROOMBA!! 3/24

Welcome to the Spring Cleaning Giveaway Hop!

Our hosts for this event are MamaNYC and Sweeping The USA!
We have some great giveaways and even a GRAND PRIZE iRobot Roomba, which is a robot that will actually vacuum your floors!

This event will run from March 10-24, 2012. Keep reading to find out what I am giving away, but don’t forget to enter for a chance at our GRAND PRIZE - and hop down the linky list for a chance to win even MORE prizes!

I am giving away a Set of MicroFiber Cleaning Cloths and a Gift Code to Amazon.com!
The value of my gift pack is $30!!

Please enter my Rafflecopter giveaway below, and then visit the other blogs on the Linky at the end of this post and enter their giveaways as well!!

There are TONS of prizes to win!!

Movie Review: "John Carter"

I had the pleasure of taking my eight-year-old daughter on a date night at the movies!

We saw the new Disney film, "John Carter".

She absolutely LOVED this movie!

The Mommy in me found the movie to be entertaining, yet predictable. The music was wonderful. The special effects were well done. It was a typical science fiction story crossed with a western, with a love story woven in, and tons of action.
Good beats evil, and the good guy gets the girl.

I was surprised that she liked it so much, since it is rated PG-13, and exhibited some action with violence and strange scenes.




The premise of this movie involves space and time travel, aliens, and a love story, all wrapped up and neatly presented in true Disney fashion.

I was reminded quite a bit of Star Wars, but on a much smaller scale.
The historical features of the movie (New York City in the 1800's) clashed with the stark, almost robotic, world of the Planet Mars.

I must agree with my daughter that Woola, the ugly martian "dog", had an endearing and cute personality that saved the humor throughout the movie.


We also loved how the movie approached the change in gravity, from Earth to Mars (Barsoom) - allowing John Carter to jump beyond normal human capacity.


The humor in having the Tharks (Martians) call John Carter "Virginia" because of the language barrier.


While we both enjoyed the movie, I must say that I would recommend this film for the preteen and teen audience.

Please enjoy this trailer of the new Disney film, "John Carter":



You can also "Like" John Carter on Facebook here http://www.facebook.com/JohnCarterMovie.

My daughter can't wait to see this movie again, and has already asked to buy it when the movie becomes available on DVD!

~Kristen

Wordless Wednesday ~ Prayers

Trying Something NEW - NOT Yelling at Kids

The Lord gave my my children, because He KNOWS I am the BEST mommy for them - and they are the best kids for me.

I have found myself yelling at my beautiful children WAY TOO MUCH lately!

So, I have decided to try something new...NOT YELLING!

This is much easier said than done, when my three wonderful children don't listen, or ignore me, and prove to be playing instead of doing what their mother has asked of them.

Kids are supposed to play. I am thankful they do not have the same priorities I have as an adult. They are innocent, and beautiful in their play. For this reason, and the fact that I was very sick of yelling at them every time we needed to leave the house, I have just stopped yelling at them.

I sat all three of the kids down, and explained to them that I will let them know when it is time to leave by telling them to put their coats and shoes on and get in the van. I will then proceed to put on my own coat and shoes, and actually just get in the car.

My first attempt proved to bring on the tears in my middle child, and made my youngest scream because he thought I forgot him!
It took them almost 18 minutes to get in the car, and then I reminded them of my new approach - that I would not yell, but would tell them to get in the car, and then I would wait.

It was exhausting for all of us!

Subsequent attempts have proven much more positive.
They actually move toward the car faster, sometimes with whining, but they do it!
And I don't yell!!
Hopefully we will continue to see improvements!

Lord, I pray that you give me the patience to wait for my children, and the peace to not yell at them. Thank you for allowing me to give them choices and control over things that matter to them, but won't cause any trouble for me." AMEN

"[Praise to the LORD] LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago." Isaiah 25:1

Happy Leap Day!

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

Today is the day that offers you 24 of the EXTRA BONUS HOURS you've been praying for!

I know that my to-do list is often miles long, and I pray that God will give me some extra time to work on those tasks that I never seem to accomplish.

Today is the day! February 29 - only comes around every 4 years, but I sure am happy to see it here today!

I have some tasks to tackle today, but I am also going to say some extra prayers as I work!

I am pricing some items to sell at our MOPS consignment sale this weekend. I am going to pray over each item, that it will bless whomever buys it and takes it home! That the mom or grandmother who buys the item will be blessed by the savings, and that the children who wear or play with the items will be blessed as well!

As I am cleaning out these things from my home, I will pray over my children, in thanksgiving that they have had the experiences with these toys and clothes, and that God has blessed us abundantly with so many things!

I will also get a FREE cup of coffee from McDonald's today (you can get one too!). As I go through the drive-thru, I will pray for the employees in the restaurant, that they be blessed, as well as the people in line with me.

What will you do with your extra day?

I pray that you will be blessed, and rejoice in the EXTRA day the Lord has given us!
Be Glad!
~Kristen

Last Day to Enter GRAND CASH Giveaway! 2/29

If you have not yet entered, now is the time for your chance to win...ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS!

God Bless you! We wish you luck!! Go enter now!

Welcome to the Grand Event Cash Giveaway!

Happy Birthday Swagbucks!!!

Happy Birthday to SwagBucks, my FAVORITE FREEBIE site!!

SwagBucks is 4 Years Old today!!! :)
They are having a birthday party of monumental proportions!!

If you're not a member of SwagBucks yet, you are missing out on FREE stuff!!

I earn Swagbucks every time I search the internet, and then I turn them in for amazon.com gift cards!
I have earned well over $100 in just a few months!

You can sign up here, and also R.S.V.P. for today's Birthday Bash!!
Win EXTRA Bonus Bucks all day long - and have some fun!

When you sign up - if you enter the code: "BIRTHDAYBASH12" - you will receive an extra 110 SwagBucks!!
That's a TON!

Click the link below to sign up and/or R.S.V.P. and Happy SwagBuck Birthday!!



Once you RSVP for the Birthday Bash, you are entered into the 24-hr Team Challenge. Every Swag Buck you and your team earn today from Search, Special Offers/Daily Deals, SBTV, Surverys and Tasks will also count toward your party's total. The party with the most SB earned will give out a 10 Swag Buck bonus to each member who contributes; the other party will get a bonus of 5 Swag Bucks each.

There is also the award for the top earner from each party with a bonus of 100 Swag Bucks and the title of Party Animal!

By now, if you're attending one of the parties you've noticed the giant pink and green puzzle. Behind that puzzle is the picture of your party. On the 27th, we'll reveal one piece for you, but to reveal the rest, your party has to collectively hit a series of earning goals, one for each category. When you hit the goal, a piece of the picture is revealed! There will be meters to help you track your team's progress. If you reveal the whole picture before midnight, ALL PARTY BONUSES ARE DOUBLED!

There is also today's all-day Swag Code extravaganza (on Monday 2/27) - 130 Swag Bucks in codes will be given out over the course of 24 hours, meaning everyone from night owls to early risers will be able to get Swag Codes! There is also a widget on the right side of my blog that offers you codes - click on the SC button! :)
Happy Birthday SwagBucks!

~Kristen

Plan What is Good!

I love to plan events, parties, and fun things for my children to do. Apparently, God is telling me that I will find LOVE and Faithfulness if I plan things that are good! Hooray! I needed that in my life right now! So - plan something nice and good for someone close to you, or for yourself! Not only will you be a blessing through your planning and forethought, but you will reap Love and Faithfulness from God! How can you go wrong! "Do not those who plot evil go astray? But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness." Proverbs 14:22

Getting Kids to Brush Their Teeth!

My children love to brush their teeth, but do not always remember to do so!
When they do remember to brush their teeth, they don't always do the best job of getting all of the germs off.

My daughter is pretty meticulous when she wants to be, but usually has better things to do, like read a book.
So, she rushes through the brushing process.
My oldest son takes his time, but usually misses some spots.
The youngest, well, he just likes the taste of the toothpaste, and tries to get away with sucking it off the brush.

That said, I stand with them in the bathroom, inspecting their teeth as the brush.
Crazy, I know. But I am the meanest mom, ever, you know!
I received a very nice email from the following website, asking if I would add their widget to my blog.
I looked into it, and my children LOVE it!

This site offers some printable Toothbrush charts that you can personalize with your child's name!

Check it out!!

A Public Service by Dentist Advisor

“Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6; NKJV)

Blessings!
~Kristen