STAND UP!

Hi friends!
I don't know if you are outraged about the ObamaCare stuff as I am- but I feel as Americans we have got to make a LOT of noise if we're going to stop this legislation from being shoved through. Should it be put through- we definitely do NOT want it to make the jump of federal funding abortions. I just called my Representatives office and I encourage you to do the same. I said, "I do not want to see him vote on this bill at all. And I CERTAINLY don't want him to vote on it without an amendment (Stupak/Pitts) the disallows the coverage of abortion." I urge you to do the same (and get your friends and family to as well. Here's a little more info (thanks to Kristina for sending me the email from AUL).

IMPORTANT ALERT
CALL your U.S. representative NOW
TO STOP ABORTION IN HEALTH CARE REFORM

Speaker Pelosi has now unveiled the new pro-abortion House bill, and Planned Parenthood Action Fund President Cecile Richards (seen right) wrote to her supporters rejoicing that “every version of the bills out there right now is free of the dangerous amendments anti-choice members of Congress tried to attach to health care reform.” She claimed “more than 18,000 phone calls” from Planned Parenthood supporters contacted Congress.

Unfortunately, she’s right. The new health care bill explicitly allows federal funding of abortion and permits federal subsidies to go to private insurance plans that cover abortion. The bill also ensures that at least one health insurance plan in every area of the country covers abortion.

These provisions create a dramatic change in federal law -- currently NO federal dollars are used to pay for elective abortions or insurance plans that cover abortion.

In order to stop the bill, we need your help. We can do better than Planned Parenthood’s 18,000 calls, can’t we?

Help us stop Nancy Pelosi and the House leadership and their massive expansion of abortion in health care reform.

Call your U.S. representative right now and:

1. Insist that House leadership allow a vote on the Stupak/Pitts Amendment to prohibit abortion funding and no other watered-down substitution;
2. Vote “against the rule” (a procedural vote that determines whether a bill can receive a vote) if House leadership refuses to allow the Stupak/Pitts amendment to come up for a vote, and

3. Vote against the FINAL BILL in health care reform if it does not have the Stupak/Pitts amendment.

How do I call my Representative?

1. Call your U.S. representative

2. When the office answers, tell them your name, that you live in the Representative’s district, and your message.

3. Tell the office that you would appreciate a reply by mail from the Representative.

4. If no one answers, leave a message in their voicemail box. Every message counts!

Friends, now is the time to make a stand. We must let Congress know that the pro-life movement is watching: we must have a pro-life amendment to explicitly exclude abortion funding and coverage. If you’re not contacting your Congressman, a pro-abortionist will be, so please take action NOW by contacting Congress TODAY!

THIS HAS BEEN PASTED FROM THE AMERICANS UNITED FOR LIFE WEBSITE
http://action.aul.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=3721.0&dlv_id=7341

Autumn Soups...

Hey out there!
Quick note to say that I made the Lentil Sausage soup the other night- and REALLY liked it. Only change was that I didn't have any fennel (do you?!?!). And, if I were doing it again, I'd add either more water- or a can of broth/stock of some sort. The leftovers didn't have enough liquid. And, I only used 2 Tbsp of red wine vinegar- didn't want that to be too strong. And, I think I tossed a little thyme on each bowl.

Also realized that I didn't put a link on the Butternut Squash with Cider Cream soup. This has become a bit of a thanksgiving tradition around here- however, we had 3 butternut squash from the garden- so I made it early. Check it out! Sooooo yummy!!!! I ate every last drop!

Tammy- let us know how the pumpkin soup is and any changes you made (so I can use them when I make it!)

If you have a bread maker--- a cheddar cheese and onion bread is delicious with just about any soup! If you'd like the recipe for that (it's in the kitchen and I'm feeling so lazy right now...) email me!

Have a COZY day!

Parental Rights?

Do you have the right to pass on your faith to your children? To decide what movies are appropriate for them? To decide when you want them to learn about alternative lifestyles and "the birds and the bees"?

If we want to have the freedom to answer the Lord's call to make disciples of our kids- we'd better be involved in passing this amendment! Tell your friends and family- post on your blogs- GET OUT THE WORD!!! We need to reject the UN Convention on the Rights of a Child and ratify the Parental Rights Amendment. Visit Parental Rights.org for more information and how you can get involved.

Thursday-Sunday

Sorry that didn't work so well… Still won't- but here's the part you couldn't see…

Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Oatmeal & toast w/ PB	Egg Sandwich or br. Burrito & fruit	Smoothie & quick bread
Burritos/Taquitos	Sandwich (& Soup)	LEFTOVERS
Soup & Salad/bread	Italian/ or Pizza and salad	Breakfast
Creamy Tomato Basil soup w/ Grilled Cheese	BBQ Chix Pizza	Waffles on the iron
Butternut Squash Soup	Santa Fe- Grilled chicken breast marinated in lime and herbs, caramelized onions, Mozzarella cheese and cilantro. Topped with fresh tomato salsa, sour cream and fresh guacamole.	Eggs over easy & Toast
Lentil and Sausage Soup Rye, Tomato, and Swiss Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Green salad w/ crunchy toppings	Hawaiian/Seafood Pizza	Fancy (fruity) Oatmeal with toast and PB
Chili	Mediterranean Pizza	Scrambled eggs & Sausage
Cream of Pumpkin Soup	Chix Alfredo Pizza	Quiche
split pea soup	Pepperoni/Saus/ Olive Pizza	Breakfast Pizza
Chix Chili	Hawaiian/Seafood	Poached Egg & Toast
French market Soup	Taco pizza	Waffles on the iron
Black Bean Soup -card	BBQ Chix	Scrambled eggs & Sausage
TURKEY AND FIXINGS	LEFTOVERS	CASSEROLE or SOUP
Baked Potato Soup -frug. Rec	Mediterranean	Spinach Quiche
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup (allrecipes.com)	Chix Alfredo	Pancakes w/ fruit topping
Sausage, Corn, Potato Chowder with Onion Cheese bread from breadmaker	Thai Pizza-chicken breast marinated in a spicy peanut-ginger and sesame sauce, Mozzarella cheese, green onions, bean sprouts, julienne carrots, cilantro and roasted peanuts.

Fall Menu 2009

Just finished the overdue fall menu.  I really hate when bedtime and everything else gets backed up b/c I'm standing in front of the pantry staring aimlessly at cans upon cans hoping beyond hope that one will jump out and form itself into a healthy, gluten-free, balanced meal.  That has YET to happen.  (Shocker!)  So, perhaps you can benefit from this, somehow...  Hope so!  My favorite recipe sites are allrecipes.com, bhg.com, and momadvice.com.  Bon Appetite! (if you'd like the file- email me)

Fall Menu 2009
		Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
BREAKFAST		breakfast bar	Pancakes or Feast	Oatmeal & toast w/ PB	Br skillet or Waffles	Oatmeal & toast w/ PB	Egg Sandwich or br. Burrito & fruit	Smoothie & quick bread
LUNCH		cereal and breakfast	Rice and Beans	Chicken, tuna, egg, Salad or PBJ	Rice and Beans	Burritos/Taquitos	Sandwich (& Soup)	LEFTOVERS
DINNERS	Dates:	NICE Supper- seafood or others	Crock Pot Night	Quick and Easy Night	Ethnic (Mexican, Indian, etc.)	Soup & Salad/bread	Italian/ or Pizza and salad	Breakfast
Week 1	28-Sep-09	Orange Roughy	Anna's Linguica and Potato Stew (AllREcipes)	Mac N Cheese and Chix Nuggets	Cheese/Garden Veg Quesadillas	Creamy Tomato Basil soup w/ Grilled Cheese	BBQ Chix Pizza	Waffles on the iron
Week 2	5-Oct-09	Creamy Tomato Shrimp- card	Cranberry Pork Roast	Red beans and rice/ bread & salad	Chix Enchiladas	Butternut Squash Soup	Santa Fe- Grilled chicken breast marinated in lime and herbs, caramelized onions, Mozzarella cheese and cilantro. Topped with fresh tomato salsa, sour cream and fresh guacamole.	Eggs over easy & Toast
Week 3	12-Oct-09	Lemon Butter Dill Orange Roughy - card	Easy Slow Cooker French Dip (All Recipes)	Hot Ham and Swiss Sandwiches	Fish Tacos	Lentil and Sausage Soup Rye, Tomato, and Swiss Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Green salad w/ crunchy toppings	Hawaiian/Seafood Pizza	Fancy (fruity) Oatmeal with toast and PB
Week 4	19-Oct-09	*Maple Glazed Chix Meal*	Chix & Szchuan? Veg.etables	BLT s (w/ avacado?)	Tikka Masala with Nan	Chili	Mediterranean Pizza	Scrambled eggs & Sausage
Week 5	26-Oct-09	Southern Style Catfish-card	Cabbage, Potato & Sausage	Chili/Cheese Fries	Aldi Nacho Recipe	Cream of Pumpkin Soup	Chix Alfredo Pizza	Quiche
Week 6	2-Nov-09	Seafood Jambalaya- card	Easy and Delicious Chicken (AllRecipes)	Spaghetti & Meatballs, salad, bread	Chix Taco/Burritos	split pea soup	Pepperoni/Saus/ Olive Pizza	Breakfast Pizza
Week 7	9-Nov-09	Lemon Pepper Salmon	Slow-Cooker Pot Roast Stew recipe (bhg.com)	Ramen	Crab Quesadillas	Chix Chili	Hawaiian/Seafood	Poached Egg & Toast
Week 8	16-Nov-09	Bakep Shrimp & Asparagus -QC01-31	Greek Chicken Pitas (AllRecipes)	Mac N Cheese and fish sticks	Evin's Indian Apricot Chicken (allrecipes.com)	French market Soup	Taco pizza	Waffles on the iron
Week 9	23-Nov-09	Salmon cakes salad, veg -frug recipe	Crock Pot Stroganoff	Pita Pockets		Black Bean Soup -card	BBQ Chix	Scrambled eggs & Sausage
Week 10	30-Nov-09		Easy and Delicious Chicken (AllRecipes)	Chili and Rice with cheddar, and froz mixed vegetables		TURKEY AND FIXINGS	LEFTOVERS	CASSEROLE or SOUP
Week 11	14-Sep-09		Beef Stroganoff		Nachos	Baked Potato Soup -frug. Rec	Mediterranean	Spinach Quiche
Week 12	21-Sep-09	Oven Crispy Chix -card--- mashed pot. And honey carrots	Apple Chicken Stew (AllRecipes)	Pita pockets and chips? Or veggies? Or fruit?	Tacos	Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup (allrecipes.com)	Chix Alfredo	Pancakes w/ fruit topping
			Pot Roast (see All Recipes)			Sausage, Corn, Potato Chowder with Onion Cheese bread from breadmaker	Thai Pizza-chicken breast marinated in a spicy peanut-ginger and sesame sauce, Mozzarella cheese, green onions, bean sprouts, julienne carrots, cilantro and roasted peanuts.

Leave a Legacy

Hi friends- I haven't posted for a while- I guess I'm as busy as you all are :D However, I have to share my latest inspiration. Pastor Ray spoke on "Finishing Well" on Sunday morning. I brought a couple kids home during Sunday School who weren't feeling quite up to snuff (cold). I thought- I'll just spend some time worshiping (we just got my piano from TX- so it's a special joy right now!). And, this song poured forth. (Here's a link if you can't see a video player above- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fercTlLelvY&feature=player_embedded) I've been very blessed by the experience of penning it- and I pray that you are somehow blessed by it, as well. And, please, check out and support the ministry of Inheritance of Hope! God bless you as you "live the inspired life" and work to leave a legacy of faith for your family.
~Katherine

Life Takes Time

I am recognizing, that doing things in life well, doing them right, takes soooo much more time than I ever have realized or allowed. So much more time than I give myself permission to take. I'm talking parenting, spiritual life, marriage, keeping house, etc. With that realization, comes rushing in the thought that if I want to give myself permission to do my callings in this season of my life, I will have to clear out a LOT more space in the calendar so I can fill it up doing what I'm supposed to be doing WELL. Which takes a lot more time than I realized. If I want to do it right.

I guess life will have to go on, if I don't ___________________. I guess somehow they'll manage if I don't _______________. (Could you fill in these blanks?) Yes, it's a good idea. Yes, it's a good thing. Yes, it could be done. And, yes, it would be SO COOL if it were done. And, perhaps it would be really appreciated by the recipients. (Perhaps not?) But, could life continue to function if it was not done? If it wasn't done that way? Wasn't done that well? Probably. I may have to learn to smile and nod and put a cork in it everytime I have a GREAT idea... Those ideas have been getting me INTO trouble- and out of doing WELL a lot of things that really DO need doing. I digress.

Can anyone relate to what I'm saying or have I exited the highway here?

Be ministered to...

In response to John 13 where Jesus washes His disciple's feet, Beth Moore asks in the Bible study, A Woman's Heart: God's Dwelling Place,

"How do you let Christ minister to you?"

I thought this an interesting question, and I'd like to hear how YOU would answer that question.

These are a few pics from the summer thus far! They include a shot of the kids at the Creation Museum in Cincinnati, Hot Springs, AR, time in Texas at my cousin Sabrina's graduation, Spring Creek Farm in Richardson, and some other random trip pics, Josiah's preschool graduation, Father's Day, and last day of gymnastics! We are finishing a wonderful week with Ryan's parents and brother and heading into VBS and swimming lessons followed by a short camping trip--- so, there'll have to be an update soon! Praying that your summer is full of SONshine and blessings,
Katherine

Inspired by the cross from life to eternal life...

A fellow college chorus member and conducting class pal, Lori Marsh, passed this past week from life to eternal life. Her husband has written a beautiful tribute to her here.

As I read her memorial tribute, I was inspired by her living her time to the full and savoring the small things of life.

What is it that keeps me, what is it that keeps you from enjoying the small things of life- from celebrating EVERYTHING? Well, as I pray for Al, Lily, and Ellie to be comforted by the Lord and to be given a hope and a future in the days, months, and years to come, I will be reminding myself to live. I bought a little plaque while we were on vacation that is now posted in our room.

"Enjoy Life. This is not a rehearsal."

Let's enjoy life. This is the real deal!
My baby calls... off to enjoy the inspired life,
~Katherine

Gluten Free Living- even with Kids!

This post probably doesn't apply to you. BUT, perhaps you know someone who is newly diagnosed with celiac or some form of wheat/gluten allergy. Perhaps you can point them to this blog and it will be helpful to them! I was typing all this for a college student at Trinity, newly diagnosed with a wheat allergy AND all processed corn- ie High Fructose Corn Syrup and Cornstarch. Ouch! Plenty out there to eat... and most of it healthier than what we'd normally choose... So, here are some GF eating ideas.

Breakfasts-
Egg Sandwiches on GF bread (I buy Kinnickinnick Tapioca frozen, several loafs at a time) with a slice of cheese
Oatmeal with brown sugar, and… bananas or walnuts or strawberries or or or ...
Hard boiled egg
Yogurt
GF Waffles (Van’s brand, or made at home w/ Bob’s Red Mill Pancake mix) and sausage
Omlets with ham, cheese, and veggies

Snacks-
Trail mix of various kinds (check ingredients or make your own)
Fruit leathers (Fruitabu or others)
Fruit snacks
FRESH fruit (even better)
Cut Veggies and dip (check the dips… but ranch or other dressings work, too)
Popcorn
Chips and Salsa (I’m thinking a good, organic corn chip with just stone ground corn - but there are lots of other “veggie” chips at the health food store- they’re very good- and of course your basic Lays Potato Chips are GF)
Lara Bars or other all natural snack bars (buy these in bulk by the box rather than individually if you like them- much cheaper)
Nuts
Did I mention fruit? :)

Lunch-
Big salads with lots of toppings (meats, cheeses, veggies, beans, boiled eggs, sunflower seeds, etc)
Sandwiches on GF Bread
Frozen Taquitos dipped in salsa, sour cream, ranch, or guacamole (these are in a corn tortilla- I buy them at Walmart- check the label, of course)
Rice noodle Ramen (Thai)
man Progresso Soups
Amy’s soups (Like Tomato Bisque with a grilled cheese on GF bread- Mmmm!)
GF pizza (and- incidentally, when I didn’t have a pckg of Kinnickinnick froz. pizza crusts- I’ve used GF bread mix and made a pizza dough from that- worked out pretty well!)
Cottage Cheese (high in protein) and fruit or Roma tomatoes sprinkled with fresh ground black pepper... mmm!!!!

Dinner-
GF Spaghetti and Meatballs (most meatballs are made w/ bread crumbs, but Aldi has a turkey meatball that does not- I buy a few bags and toss in the freezer)
Enchiladas made w/ corn tortillas
Beef Stroganoff (GF noodles, browned beef, beef broth, sour cream, and onion soup mix- there is a GF brand- can’t remember- Aldi, Walmart? Sorry-)
Indian cuisine
Lots of Mexican cuisine- particularly if you can do the corn tortillas or corn chips---
Lots of Asian cuisine
Stir Fry Veg over rice
Meatball sandwich with some leftover spagh sauce
Fish and veggies
Stuffed baked potatos
Bean salads
Cole slaws (use food processor and add sweet pot, beet, brocc, caul, and other veggies- add org. raisins and thousand island dressing- it's OUT of this world!!!)
Veggies of every shape and description
The list is long… I’ll let you check out the menus…

Dessert-
GF premades like brownies, cakes, cookies
PB cookies- there are recipes that use no flour
Fruit with whipped topping and a touch of cinnamon sprinkled over top
Yogurt with half a banana and some walnuts
Pure ice cream (try Breyers?)
Murder by chocolate--- basically dark choc and butter--- it’s SOOOO good!

Also, if you check out vegetarian and vegan food- much of it will work for you. They use lots less breads and processed foods. Here are a few other links...
http://www.celiac.com/categories/Gluten%252dFree-Recipes/
http://www.glutenfree.com/
http://www.amazon.com/Gluten-Free-Specialty-Grocery/b/ref=sc_bm_br_16310101_1_2?ie=UTF8&node=114329011&no=16310101&me=ATVPDKIKX0DER
(I’d think you’d want to find some things you really like and then look for them here on Amazon to buy in bulk. Nature’s Panty (or other natural food store) will also order cases for you with a discount. Just ask at the register.) If you are blessed to live near a Whole Foods Market- you are SET!

Though you'll have to change your lifestyle, your options are still limitless!!! GREAT FOOD awaits you... Healthier food...

Interested in seasonal GF dinner menus? Email me, I'll send 'em to you.
Blessings!

Great Deal!!!

Hi there :)

Don't know if anyone reading has any interest in doing a chronological read through the Bible or not, but there is a great deal at CBD.com today (through Friday?) on "The NKJV Chronological Study Bible". If you like history- you will love this Bible. I read through the Bible in this way- where you read it putting the texts in the order they actually happened, so you're reading the prophets alongside the historical book and people they were prophesying to in the situations to which they were speaking. It was HUGELY enlightening to me and really helped me to have a much better grasp of the history of God's people and how it all fits together. I would never switch to having this be my main Bible that I take to church, etc.- because it would be very difficult to find verses you were looking for, but, it's a great one to keep on your desk and read every day in your quiet time. So- just thought I'd share. It's 57% off right now- about the same price as you can buy the hard cover for on Amazon. And the little bit nicer leather one is not much more. ENJOY, LEARN, GROW!!! :)

Mourning to Joy

Well, by now, most of you know that our precious puppy, Barnabas, had Parvo, unbeknownst to us and the woman at the rescue. Though hospitalized for 2 1/2 days, he passed away just 7 days after we brought him home. It was a very hard week for us. The Lord is so good however, and lets nothing go to waste. It was a time of growth, despite the pain. We worked as a family through what we know to be true about the Lord, His goodness, and this fallen world. And, though life does not always have a happy ending, He has been gracious and turned our mourning into dancing as Psalm 30:11 says! Though we had not planned on looking for another pup until mid-June after we return from a trip to Texas, we have already been given another sweetie. We won't officially bring him to our house until after the trip (and until he's had time for another shot and to build up some immunity to the Parvo virus that Barnabas had), but we are visiting him regularly and ENJOYING him!!! Here is his birth announcement.

Kids Bored?

Here's an idea...

We have friends over. The kids decided to go puddle jumping and got all wet. Naturally, they wanted to come inside to play the Wii. Not happening! :) You chose to get soaking wet, you can stay outside and dry off!!! But, being the oh so very sympathetic mother that I am (ha ha ha!) I thought I'd best help them to find something to do. Hence, the backyard scavenger hunt I found online. I rounded up some paper bags, wrote their names on them, sharpened some pencils, and copied the page for them. Some suckers in the pantry will do for prizes... ready, set, hunt!!!

Hoping in a moment of needing to keep the kids entertained OUTSIDE this may be helpful to someone,

Katherine

Pay Cash, a novel idea!

We have FINALLY done it! Completed an entire month back on the cash envelope system. Whew! We used to do this in WI when the budget was a little tighter but had not gotten ourselves back on it since we moved. I imagine that if you're a St. Luker who's taken Wendy's Financial Peace course, you've been using cash for a long time! But, for the rest of us... it's a big step!

In these strained economic times when we all need to tighten our belts and be more frugal and responsible- the discipline of only using cash makes sense. The benefits in brief are:

• We are less likely to spend $$$ when it's cash vs. a card!


• When the $$$ for that line item is gone, it's GONE- and you can easily see it.


• It would be tough to do the cash envelope system without first making a budget- and using a budget is a GOOD THING!

I'm sure there are tons more reasons- but for me- I spend a whole LOT less money when I'm paying cash!

If you do this... do you literally use envelopes? Do you have a little divider for the cash? Something else? I have used a little plastic expandable coupon holder- but I've been unsatisfied with it in 2 ways- 1) when I'm paying, I don't want to pull it out- b/c it's obvious that it's full of case and 2) the coins don't stay IN much less organized. Please share your suggestions. In doing a little time wasting online, I mean, research, I found two things that I am as of yet unwilling to part with my cash for! Perhaps you'll have a better idea :)

Hannah Hansen coupon organizer
Coupon/Script Organizer Wallet

So, let me know what YOU do! :) And, have a super night!
~a more fiscally responsible Katherine

Welcome Barnabas!

HOMESCHOOL TIP!

Just a quick tip--- I'm sitting down to do this myself, so thought I'd share.

As you're in the final stretch of the school year and have thoughts, like "next year we really need to ________"--- take a minute to jot them down all in one place. Then, as you're doing your final reports and you know what you want to continue doing next year and what you want to change- go ahead and ORDER next year's books/supplies. You'll beat the August rush, backorders, and delayed shipping and have a lot more peace during the summer. All that's left are the things you want to change or switch. During the summer you can talk with other moms about things they've used and do a little research to finalize those decisions. I also have saved money this way because I don't overbuy and reinvent the wheel each year. And on that topic- a good school shelf (cabinet, tubs, whatever you use) cleanout at the end of the year reveals LOTS of things I have but didn't use for one reason or another. I can either build it into next year's plan- or be realistic about it and GIVE IT AWAY NOW while there's still a co-op meeting to take it to!!! :)

Hope that's helpful to someone! Cheerio!

Organizing the Home- Being a Manager

I am not an accountant by nature, as many of you know. I like organization, however, though it often escapes me. For about 3 years now, I have been trying to get our "stuff" organized- by stuff, I mean things like tax records, insurance, health records, vehicle records, etc. I have file folders to file away statements, but things that need a little more interaction have just piled up. Finally, I have what I'm calling my home manager's notebook. I have tabs for 1) Administrative with information on savings goals and records, cash envelope alotments and records, and non-monthly expenses to be planned for. 2) Tax Rcords (we're supposed to keep a lot of these b/c of clergy's self-employed tax status) for health expenses, mileage, and other deductible items. 3) Health (with a sub-tab for each kids w/ vaccination records, meds taken, allergic reactions, etc. 4)Assets for vehicle and electronics information, service records, etc. and 5) House/Parsonage with insurance policy, septic and heat servicing records, etc. Now my great challenge will be to keep it up- or keep up with it! :) The goal is to sit down (weekly ideally) and enter receipts, write down tax records info, file the stuff that needs filing, and do the stuff that needs doing. Here's my question for you...

How do you keep these things organized? Hanging files? Notebook? Drawer? Fireplace? And what is your system or schedule for getting this stuff done? :) Give me all your good tips!!! Obviously- I need them!

Trying to be the best I can be!
~Katherine

Please Just Bring it, Lord

Hello friends!

I have this new prayer pattern- "Please just bring it, Lord". There are so many things in my life right now- that in my female, controlling way- that I would like to orchestrate. Do you know what I mean? I'd like to make them happen. I have days when I'm antsy for my own house. Days when I think I should find something to do part-time to supplement our income. I'd like to get a real pet for the kids (no offense to Mort the Newt!). And, I have just decided to ask the Lord to bring them, the perfect match, in His time, and to help me to not force them, go after them, and be obsessed (my natural tendency)! :) So, we'll see what happens. The hardest part for me is not taking it back- getting online to look at houses, or dogs, or jobs... the research nut in me thinks if I just look for a few more hours... I'll find the perfect _______! (yah, right!)

So, here I stand, with open hands, asking, please, just bring them, Lord!

Soli Deo Gloria~ Katherine

Tip for Saving Money

You know how there is just never money "leftover"? :) Well, I wanted to share something I've been doing for a few years that works for us. I take advantage of savings accounts to do just that- SAVE. (Original, huh?) BUT- I set up one for each thing I need to save for. (Christmas, Travel, etc. each have their own savings account) While in WI- we banked at a credit union and you could have pretty much as many different savings accounts as you wanted. When we moved to NY- I switched to using ING Direct's online savings accounts (at the time that had GREAT interest rates on them). Perhaps you already participate in a Christmas Club or something of that nature through your bank to help you save for Christmas time expenses. Same principle, just extended to more areas.

I have accounts for things such as-

• Home Downpayment Savings
• Christmas
• Homeschool Expenses
• Auto Insurance
• Taxes (we pay Self-Employment taxes quarterly as clergy)
• Traveling
  
• and others
  

This system (since I am NOT an accountant!) takes the "work" out of saving for me. From our budget- I have the designated amount transferred automatically each month into these various accounts. The rest of the money is our working budget to pay bills and get cash for monthly expenses like gas and groceries. Then, when I need to pay, for example, my six months of car insurance, the money is sitting there in the Auto Insurance account waiting. I transfer it into checking and pay the bill.

[Take the auto insurance bill that comes twice a year and divide it by 6. Have that amount transferred each month into the account. It's like paying yourself a monthly bill- and paying them twice a year.]

When I need to buy homeschool curriculum or go on an expensive field trip- the money is available and doesn't have to be "found"- as in "where am I going to find the money for THAT?" It's worked pretty well for us. If you are financially savvy- this may seem silly to you. In that case, disregard it. If you, however, would spend every dime in your hand (like me!) and then some- this may help you greatly- and "save" you from yourself!!! Happy Saving!
~Katherine

Practicing the Presence

Hey friends!
I've been a horrible blogger lately- :( Sorry about that! We have a birthday-a -month from Dec through March- (when we have 2 back to back!) And like everyone else, we were sick, passed it around and around, got secondary ear infections, and our latest was an allergic reaction to antibiotic. All that to say- life's been busy- sorry I haven't been blogging!

I'm leading a discipleship group at my house on Sunday mornings (are any of you reading?!?!) and we've been going through My Heart, Christ's Home- a tiny booklet I mentioned a few posts back. This week we were discussing the discipline of "Practicing the Presence of Christ"- in other words, reminding ourselves often that the reality is- HE, Jesus, is right here with me, whether I acknowledge Him or not. An author I have learned SO much from, Leanne Payne, refers to this as Incarnational Reality.

The Incarnation was when God became a man- "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." John 1:14 And though He ascended to heaven- He is with us through His Spirit- "Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. ... 13 when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. (John 16:8, 13) So, Incarnational Reality is acknowledging this "unseen real"- the spiritual dimension- the "Kingdom of God" that is all around us, yet, we are so frequently oblivious to it!

A few verses we talked about if you are interested in a little Bible study...
Psalm 139:7-12
Matthew 28:18-20
Deuteronomy 31:6-8
2 Corinthians 4:18
Ephesians 3:16-18

These are just the TIP of the iceberg- the Bible is basically the story of how God is with His people!

Hope that you are able to very practically discipline yourself to acknowledge the Presence of Christ with you- ALLLLLLLL the time! Right now! When you sleep! When you pray! When you go to the grocery story, talk on the phone, make dinner, etc. etc. etc!!! :) What a comfort- what a relief, what an amazing reality.

In wonder and gratitude,
Katherine

Multiplication Tables?

Just a quick note... if you have a school aged child learning multiplication- may I recommend Timez Attack @ Multiplication.com? They have a free version for download- and you can upgrade to the full version which just allows them to go into more "worlds" and have different backgrounds, etc. The game teaches the concepts of multiplication as well as tracking your child's mastery of the times tables and working them up through the 12s. Hope says it "is the MOST fun math game!" Hope it can help someone else, too!!!

Talking with God

Hi friends :)

A few days ago, as I was praying by writing in my prayer journal, I had a conversation with the Lord that I felt He wanted me to share with you. I have hesitated in doing that for a few days- I've never shared from it before, except with my husband- but I know He wants me to share it. So... here goes! I hope you are blessed- imagine it's a conversation between YOU and Him!

March 3rd, 2009
Me: What's on your heart this morning?
the Lord: YOU are.
Me: I am? Why am I on Your heart this morning with all the people who need you? (I name several people I am regularly praying for)
the Lord: There is enough of Me to have them all AND you on on my heart. Just a reminder from Psalm 139
"I made all the delicate, inner parts of your body and knit you together in your mother's womb."
Me: "Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is MARVELOUS and how well I know it!"
the Lord: "I watched you as you were being formed in utter seclusion, as you were woven together in the dark of the womb. I saw you before you were born. Ever day of your life was recorded in my book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed!"
Me: "How precious are Your thoughts about me, O God!"

When I woke up this morning- you were still with me! (v. 18b)

v. 23 Search me O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out what in me offends You; and lead me along the path of everlasting life.

Then I read Romans 4:5 and down to 5:17 and 6:11-12 all in New Living Translation. (If you've never tried it- do! It's not a study Bible- but a wonderfully conversational Bible- it brings things to light in a brand new way if you've always read another translation!)

The reason I believe I was to share all of this--- just to say that YOU are on God's heart- EVERY DAY!!! Sometimes I get to thinking that God is most interested in the people I know with serious struggles. He wanted to remind me on March 3rd- and I believe wants to remind You- not to put Him in a box. He is plenty big for all those we pray for AND US! YOU are on His heart- don't forget it!

My discipleship group is going to read My Heart- Christ's Home by Robert Boyd Munger. It's a tiny little booklet. If you've never read it- I highly recommend it. A wonderful illustration of Ephesians 3:16-17

NIV- ¹⁶I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, ¹⁷so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.

NLT-17 I pray that Christ will be more and more at home in your hearts as you trust in him.

I pray that with Paul for each of you reading and for myself- may He be more and more at home in our hearts! Have a great night,
~Katherine

Where are you at, friends?

Dearest friends,
Where are you at in your walk with the Lord? Are you on a flat, boring plateau? Worse, down in a high-walled canyon? Are you in a fertile, arid place? Are you climbing a high mountain towards a glorious view? Or are you wandering in a desert, praying for an oasis?

I climbed a mountain (spiritually speaking) to get to the opportunity to help Ryan teach about women's role in God's Kingdom in church two weeks in a row. Then, I slowly succumbed to a horrible bronchial virus. :( YUCK! I am now steadily emerging from the bed and re-entering and re-engaging my life. :) The kids must really be pleased with this!!! lol! But I am reminded, that after any major spiritual mountain, the valley usually follows. Is that because I am so focused and disciplined before hand- knowing how I MUST depend on Him- for in me is no good thing? Or, is it because of the "let-down" of sorts that invariably follows any exciting thing? Real life just can't compete. I don't know why it is- but it seems to be a pretty predictable pattern for me. Now if I could just learn to anticipate it and ease its effects. If I could remember how this works, I would be extra diligent in my quiet times on the days following such a high. I would make a poster to hang to remind myself that I must press through the onslaught!

Eventually the Lord gives me a new motivation... this week it is praying for some friends in difficult health situations- one a pregnancy with potential genetic defects (we reject that in Jesus' Name and declare the baby HEALTHY!) and two others with cancer and another with an auto-immune something or other in the process of being diagnosed.

What is your motivation? (Perhaps you don't need one! That's GREAT!) I find, that something outside myself- like my children, or friends, is better motivation than "I should". The truth of course, is, I can't LIVE without HIM!!!! :) Why do I need a reason to seek? I don't know- I'm just the kind of person that is motivated by purpose.

So, I don't know where you're at- but- if you're on a plateau, or down in a valley, or wandering in a desert- perhaps you need to ask the Lord for purpose. What does the Lord have for you right now? He has something, to be sure! And everything He is doing is working for your good- no matter what it looks like right now.

Lord bless you with renewed purpose and calling--- start climbing!
~Katherine