Finding My Heart At Home

Pictures from Cape Cod & Boston...Part I

2009-07-08T15:16:00.009-04:00

Well, we're back beneath the Mason Dixon line! After being in Massachusetts for eight days this Southerner has a new found love for New England! I fell in love with the weather, the food, and the accents! The first set of pictures is from our stay on Cape Cod.

The Chatham Lighthouse

Mom!

This was the best cup of New England Clam Chowder I've ever eaten! I went to two other restaurants and ordered a cup of chowder and none compared to this one!

This was the best ice cream place! Enjoyed some mint chocolate chip!

Is off to Boston!

2009-06-26T21:40:00.003-04:00

I'll be flying out in the morning with my mom to Boston, MA. We will then drive to Cape Cod and spend some time with family then go back to Boston on Tuesday for the Reformation 500 conference! I will be soaking up all the history and hopefully meeting new like-minded friends! I'll make sure to post pictures when I come back. Should be back on the 5th. Hope everyone has a great fourth of July weekend!

Shot of the day.

2009-06-09T22:11:00.001-04:00

Some Thoughts...

2009-05-18T17:17:00.004-04:00

Lately I’ve been pondering a lot about the relationships in my life. There are many types of relationships. Relationships with acquaintances, parents, siblings, relatives, children, friends, bosses and co-workers.
Then there’s a relationship that surpasses all of these; the relationship between a Heavenly Father and His child. I’ve been guilty so many times of squandering precious hours that could have been spent with my Father. Instead of using my time to build the most important relationship, I was watching a movie with a friend, reading a book, or talking on the phone.

In the past week I’ve seen a prayer slowly become answered not in the time frame that I thought would happen, but in His. A prayer of hungering for a deeper relationship with the most High King. I began reading a book that I’ve been anxious to get my hands on for months. I attempted to order this book on different occasions but for some reason didn’t get it until just recently. I know that the Lord kept this book from me until I was ready to soak up the words of truth. This book has convicted my heart and has sparked many thoughts that have flooded my mind. I’ve read many of the books that Eric and Leslie Ludy have written and each one is better than the last. Set Apart Femininity By: Leslie Ludy isn’t just another Christian book for girls. This book makes me want to run to my bible and ask, “What do the scriptures say?”
Here is an excerpt from the book Set Apart Femininity:
“If you want to personally experience the fullness of all that Christ is then it’s time to tune out the voice of your flesh and follow the example of Paul: “But what things were gain to me, these I have counted to loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him…that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death” (Philippians 3:7-10).
Yes, there will be protests when we embrace Christ’s sacred decorum—both from our flesh and from the outside world. But instead of complaining about His narrow path or giving in to self-pity, let us delight in the jealous love that He has for us. Let us remember the staggering sacrifice He made on our behalf. And let us revel in the privilege of laying our all at His feet in gratitude. Let us yield to the supernatural, transforming, purifying work of Christ’s Spirit as He makes us into His holy temple. Let us allow Him to change us from the selfish, cowering closet-Christians we are into the valiant, valorous virtuous examples of set-apart femininity that God has called us to be. And let the world stand back in wonder.”

Babysitting, Birthdays, 5ks, and lots of catching up...

2009-04-29T13:31:00.015-04:00

I've realized that this blog of mine has been rather neglected. So, finally I'm doing a catch up post! Here's a glimpse of some things I've been up to since my last post. In March I was honored to attend a ballet birthday party for Kate who turned 5 this year. I've been babysitting Kate since she was a few weeks old. April I ran in a 5k with a couple of friends and ended up winning 1st place in my age group! Went to the Fox Theatre and attended the 70th anniversary of Gone With The Wind. Also, had a surprise birthday picnic on the Georgia/Alabama state line for my friend Jennie's 20th Birthday! Can't believe it's almost May! I'll be posting some other things I've been up to later on this week. A lot is happening and the Lord is opening new doors...can't wait to see what all is in store!
Until next time...

Georgia sunset.

The fabulous Fox Theatre in Atlanta.

This was my second year running in the Dogwood Dash 5k. Got 1st place in my age group!

After the race.

Took this picture while babysitting. Conversations with Kate always end in laughter!

Ballet Lessons.

Loved all the little girls in their tutus.

A Giveaway at Joyfully Home

2009-02-21T10:47:00.005-05:00

I wanted to let you know that Jasmine over at Joyfully Home is having a giveaway! She will be giving the brand new album titled, True Beauty series of last years Father/Daughter retreat hosted by Vision Forum. The giveaway will end on February 27th so hurry on over and enter! Also, while your at it head on over to the Vision Forum website and check out some of there new conference albums that are on sale for a limited time! Have a great weekend!

It's time to come out of hiding!

2009-02-19T07:44:00.004-05:00

I know that there are many people reading the blog but who may have never introduced themselves. So, if you don't mind coming out of hiding... I'd like to know who my readers are! This year one of my goals was to use this blog for the glory of the Lord. I'm looking forward to the many thoughts I'll be sharing with you in '09. Also, I'd like to know what you think of the blog... any questions you'd like to ask or see on the blog? Thanks!

Weekend in Columbus, GA

2009-02-11T16:39:00.018-05:00

Last weekend was spent with 500 families who came from Montana, Texas, Virginia, New Jersey and all over the states to gather together for Christians at the Crossroads Conference with the Botkin family. They covered many topics from: What Is The Home? - What Is The Church? - Brothers And Sisters - Understanding "Patriarchy" - Family Dynamics With Adult Children - Courtship and Marriage For Serious Families - What It Means To Honor Our Parents- Dominion Oriented Femininity - The Difference Between A Playground And A Battlefield And Why Young Men Must Live For Spiritual Warfare - How You Can Have Hope for the Future - How To Watch a Movie With Your Family (and use the occasion as a life-changing discipleship opportunity)

(Mr. Botkin during Q&A)

(Anna Sophia and Elizabeth Botkin talking with some young ladies.)

Notes from: Honoring Your Parents
*We honor our parents whether they deserve it or not.
*Serve by loving them
*Praise them in private and public
*Bless them with kind words; don't despise your parents
*Share interests, even if you aren't interested

I really enjoyed Anna and Elizabeth's talk on:
Ten Attributes of a Young Dominion Woman.

A few things that I came away with were:

*Be more invested in my family
*Embrace a hard life
*A dominion woman strengthens her arms and trains her mind
* A dominion woman understands the times: we need to look around for opportunities to serve our families, church, and community.

Something the Lord has been showing me...

2009-01-19T10:15:00.004-05:00

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth forever. -Psalm 111:10

My To-Do List For 2009...

2009-01-06T19:15:00.002-05:00

These are in no particular order:

Read the Bible chronologically in a year.

Continue on working towards getting my B.A. in History through CollegePlus!

Work on health/fitness plan and sticking with it. Fortunately I'm blessed to have a friend who is becoming a personal fitness trainer and has offered to help me with areas I need help in! Looking forward to this one!

Travel to see Meredith! This is something I can hardly wait for and will be looking forward to meeting my lovely friend who seems more like a sister sometime this year!

Attend the “Christians at the Crossroads” Conference.

Read many books

Make new friends.

Journal more.

Pray diligently for my future husband.

Evangelize more.

Serve others more. I think I found in 2008 that one of my biggest gifts is serving...so I plan to do a lot of that in 2009.

Write more. I have a lot of essays that I will be writing for school but I hope to do some writing for pleasure such as: poems, stories, maybe that book that I started a looong time ago!

Spend more time with family.

Procrastinate less.

Twelve Books I Hope to Read in 2009

2009-01-02T22:21:00.009-05:00

1.) The Bielski Brothers: The True Story of Three Men Who Defied the Nazis, Built a Village in the Forest, and Saved 1,200 Jews by: Peter Duffy

2.) Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer by: by James L. Swanson

3.) William Wilberforce: The Life of the Great Anti-Slave Trade Campaigner by: William Hague

4.) Set-Apart Femininity: God's Sacred Intent for Every Young Woman by: Leslie Ludy

5.) The Hiding Place by: Corrie Ten Boom

6.) Winston and Clementine: The Personal Letters of the Churchills by: Mary Soames

7.) Persuasion by: Jane Austen

8.) A Patriot's History of the United States: From Columbus's Great Discovery to the War on Terror by: Larry Schweikart and Michael Patrick Allen

9.) Wives and Daughters by: Elizabeth Gaskell and Angus Easson

10.) A Man Called Peter: The Story of Peter Marshall by: Catherine Marshall

11.) What He Must Be: ...If He Wants to Marry My Daughter by: Voddie T. Baucham Jr.

12.) My Life for Yours: A Walk Through The Christian Home by: Douglas Wilson

Poetry to think about...

2008-10-10T07:48:00.006-04:00

Picture from allposters.com

The Hand That Rocks the Cradle Is the Hand That Rules the World

Blessings on the hand of women!

Angels guard it's strenght and grace,

In the palace, cottage, hovel,

Oh, no matter where the place;

Would that never storms assailed it,

Rainbows ever gently curled;

For the hand that rocks the cradle

Is the hand that rules the world.

Infancy's the tender fountain,

Power may with beauty flow,

Mother's first to guide the streamlets,

From them souls unresting grow-

Grow on for the good or evil,

Sunshine streamed or evil hurled;

For the hand that rocks the cradle

Is the hand that rules the world.

Woman, how divine your mission

Here upon our natal sod!

Keep, oh, keep the young heart open

Always to the breath of God!

All true trophies of the ages

Are from mother-love impearled;

For the hand that rocks the cradle

Is the hand that rules the world.

Blessings on the hand of women!

Fathers, sons, and daughters cry,

And the sacred song is mingled

With the worship in the sky-

Mingles where no tempest darkens,

Rainbows evermore are hurled;

For the hand that rocks the cradle

Is the hand that rules the world.

-William Ross Wallace

My very scary Wednesday!

2008-09-19T07:59:00.002-04:00

It started as I got out of bed at about 7:10 a.m., I heard a crash from the kitchen, and a loud scream. Immediatley rushed to the source and found my mother who had fallen and hurt herself very badly. Spilled coffee, tears streaming, and a very worried daughter, I quickly put on some clothes and a jacket and got her in the car and off we went to the E.R. Pulled up to the door, went to get a wheelchair for her, signed her in, then parked the car, and ran back in to sign some papers. Thankfully, they were slow at the moment and it took hardly any time before she was in a room. They did X-rays on her arm and foot and then we waited for the doctor to come and tell the news! A nice and older gentleman doctor that looked to me like someone who would should be out in the woods in a cabin with a red plaid shirt, jeans, and boots on, came in and told us some very good news. Her foot was only sprained, arm was indeed broken at the elbow or as they called it the "radial head" something like that, but she didn't need any surgery at all and that it should heal in the next few weeks! After spending about two hours there we were finally discharged and off to our local drugstore to get some medicine for the pain and to rent a wheelchair because crutches wouldn't work with her arm. As we went home I was so relieved to know that everything was okay and that I never panicked for a moment. The Lord blessed me and I felt Him with me as we went to the E.R. and on the drive home. Thursday we went to see an orthopaedic doctor to make sure that the splint on her arm was okay and at this point her foot had recovered a good bit and was able to hobble around. It's finally Friday and I'm so happy to see that she is feeling much better! Well, until next time....

My Daybook...

2008-08-27T13:02:00.006-04:00

I was planning to post this earlier this week but never had the chance. So here is My Daybook from Wednesday...

Outside my window...it’s cloudy and raining (great reading weather)!

I am thinking...about all the work that I will be doing in the coming months.

I am thankful for...Jesus, a lovely home, family, friends, inspiring books, our founding fathers, and for all of those who have served this country and keep us safe!

From the kitchen...comes the aroma of coffee!

I am creating...a scrapbook for my pictures.

I am going... to run some errands in a few minutes.

I am wearing... jeans and a shirt.

I am reading... well, I just finished reading The Raising of a President by: Doug Wead. I’m not sure which book I’ll be reading next…so many to choose from!

I am hoping... that I get all of the things on my list finished.

I am hearing... classical music from the NPR station.

Around the house... are many books.

One of my favorite things...is to have a really great conversation with someone!

A few plans for the rest of the week... finish getting my nephews birthday present together, plan what dish we are taking to our fellowship group this Sunday, and order books online.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

The Annie Moses Band Comes To Town...

2008-08-19T10:15:00.005-04:00

If you are looking for music that is uplifting, beautiful, and gives glory to the Lord, please take a moment and listen to the Annie Moses Band. I've been to three concerts and own a couple of their cd's. This is a family band with a beautiful legacy of their music and faithfulness to the Lord Jesus Christ. Each time I come away from one of their concerts I am so encouraged in my Christian walk. I hope that you will be as blessed as I have been with their beautiful music.

I'm BACK!!!

2008-08-06T08:13:00.012-04:00

It's so good to be back and blogging again! Last month I had decided to take some time off from writing on the blog and simply work on projects around the house. I also had a wonderful visit from my sister-in-law Jennifer and my nephew Drew! Then had to be off my feet for a few days after having two planters warts removed from the bottom of my foot...Ouch! Now that August is here things are calming down, well I hope they are! Here are a few pictures from last month.

From white kitchen walls to.....

COLOR!!!!

It's amazing how color can change everything.

It's DREW!!!!!!!

Out to lunch.

I love this little guy!

Happy 4th of July!!!

2008-07-04T12:51:00.006-04:00

Painting by: Norman Rockwell

The Star-Spangled Banner

By: Francis Scott Key

O! say can you see by the dawn's early light

What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming.

Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight,

O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming.

And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.

Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

On the shore, dimly seen through the mists of the deep,

Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes,

What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep,

As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?

Now it catches the gleam of the morning's first beam,

In full glory reflected now shines in the stream:'

Tis the star-spangled banner! Oh long may it wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

And where is that band who so vauntingly swore

That the havoc of war and the battle's confusion,

A home and a country should leave us no more!

Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps' pollution.

No refuge could save the hireling and slave

From the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave:

And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

O! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand

Between their loved home and the war's desolation!

Blest with victory and peace, may the heav'n rescued land

Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.

Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,

And this be our motto: 'In God is our trust.'

And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

May We All Remember What This Day Really Means!!!

When Life Gives You Lemons...Make Lemonade!

2008-07-03T10:58:00.003-04:00

I know that nothing beats a nice cool glass of lemonade during the hot summer. I typically only drink water or fruit juice but it’s nice every once in a while to have something different. So when I came across this recipe in a book titled Good Day for a Picnic, I thought I’d try it. I served it to several ladies from our church for a ladies get together and they all seemed to have enjoyed it. By the end of the night there was only about a cup's worth left!

I doubled the recipe but you can make as much or as little as you want.

The recipe is:

Easy Lemonade
Makes about 6 servings

Juice of 8 lemons
¾ cup of sugar, or to taste
6 or 7 cups of water

In a serving pitcher, stir the lemon juice and sugar with 6 or 7 cups of water until the sugar is dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness. Serve over ice or chill. Lemonade keeps respectably well in the fridge.

Remember, room-temperature lemons produce more juice. You can leave the lemon pulp in, but I strained mine out. Also, remember that different lemons in the supermarket often aren’t very juicy. Soft (but not too soft) lemons contain more juice.

I've been tagged!

2008-06-26T10:38:00.009-04:00

Mrs. Rhonda Horton from The Path to Simplicity has tagged me! I meant to post this yesterday and for some reason it wouldn't post! Read below if you dont' know exactly what it means to be tagged. Here goes...

The rules of the game: Each player answers the questions themselves. At the end of the post the player tags 4 people and posts their names, and goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment letting them know that they've been tagged asking them to read your blog. Let the person who tagged you know when you've posted your answers."

10 years ago~ I turned 10 this month and as usual during the summer my mom and I would go to Hilton Head Island, SC to visit my aunt Janice and Uncle Jimmy. Usually most of the aunts, uncles, and cousins would all meet up there for a week or so. It was always a special time for our family as we went to the beach during the day and came home and played games or just sat and caught up with everyone. At night we would play game after game of Charades, which my cousins and I loved to play! So much has changed since I was ten and I can hardly remember what I was interested in but mostly my memories of that age were of the times spent with family.

5 things on my list today~ Having devotion/quiet time, 2. Cleaning out the fridge (which is WAY over due), 3. Wash bed sheets/comforter and finish dusting furniture,
4. Working on getting a meal plan for next week and start a grocery list of things we might need, 5. Iron clothes for mom and finish unpacking her things from her recent trip.

Snacks I enjoy~ apples with peanut butter, animal crackers, goldfish crackers, cheese, and really yummy fruit smoothies!

Things I would do if I were a millionaire~ First off I would set aside a portion of the money that I would give to tithe and also give to certain charities that have been on my heart. Then I would let my mom build her dream house and have it paid off, then I’d like to go to Europe with my family for about a month and just travel all over. Another thing would be to buy lots and lots of fabric for sewing projects! As for the rest of the money I would put it into the bank until I needed to use it. Since I’m not married and have no children I would like to be able to use it in helping build a house or just to be able to have it for my future family if that is the Lord’s will for my life.

Places I have lived~ Miami, FL; Fitzgerald, GA; Irwinville, GA; Conyers, GA; Villa Rice, GA; Bremen, GA; Waco, GA. (I think it’s safe to say we’ve moved a few times throughout my life.)

Okay, now it's your turn...I'm tagging whoever reads this!

The Joy of a Good Book

2008-06-25T18:32:00.000-04:00

It's Wednesday, and so far this week has been such a wonderful time. Of course, cleaning, making meals, folding laundry, and cutting grass are things that I do every week. However, I've been very refreshed lately in the books that I'm reading and the audio Cd's that I'm spending time listening to. I know that I have a bit more free time than most stay at home daughters; seeing as how I don't have any siblings and we don't live on a farm. But it's amazing how it seems that from the time I wake up (6:30 a.m.) until the time I go to bed(trying to make sure I'm asleep by 10:00 p.m. but sometimes that doesn't happen), that I am constantly working on something or cleaning up a mess, helping iron a shirt, or whatever task that needs getting done. But as I am making more time here and there to just read books, I'm finding that it's time very well spent. Even if you just sit down to read one chapter at a time you will feel so much better and refreshed! Of course, that very much depends on the type of books that you fill your mind with. For myself, I've really become interested in reading biographies and hope to start reading a biography of each president. I'm sort of compiling a list of books that I hope to read by the end of the year; I'll post a rough draft of it soon! I was wondering though do any of you have books that you recommend reading or books that have inspired you in your Christian walk? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Well, until next time!

What I love about our yard in the summer.

2008-06-14T21:36:00.015-04:00

Big shady trees that have been around forever.

Wild roses that smell heavenly.

Hydrangea bushes all around.

Watching creation take place every day .

Being in the yard makes me feel closer to the Lord.

For He's A Jolly Good Fellow!!!!

2008-05-29T08:09:00.003-04:00

I'd like to take a moment and wish my brother, Jason, a very Happy Birthday today!!!

Happy Birthday to You

Happy Birthday Dear Jason

Happy Birthday to You!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Memorial Day Weekend...

2008-05-27T15:04:00.011-04:00

Saturday we all went to Alabama to see our first Drive-in movie and I must say it was so wonderful! We all got a bunch of blankets and sat in front of the car and watched the movie under the stars.

Friends

Saturday Evening at the Drive-in.

Look!

Monday was Mary Ellen's 16th birthday, so we all went out to lunch and then I gave her the cake I made. It was delicious except for the fact that it was almost 97 degrees out and the icing melted a little. Then that evening we had a Memorial Day/Birthday cookout with friends and family.

~Sixteen Candles~

Happy Birthday Mary Ellen!

The End of a Great Memorial Day with Friends and Family!

Let us pray.....

2008-05-22T21:17:00.003-04:00

I read just today through the Fox News that our brother in Christ, Steven Curtis Chapman has lost a daughter in a tragic accident. Please take a moment and pray for the Chapman family.

Click Here

Project of the week in pictures...Day 2

2008-05-20T18:47:00.004-04:00

- finishing up the brick border and some planting-

-planting lavender-

Project of the week in pictures....Day 1

2008-05-19T21:25:00.004-04:00

Congratulations Anna!

2008-05-19T21:04:00.008-04:00

- Presenting gifts to Anna-

This past friday I attended the homeschool graduation ceremony of a very close friend of mine. I have watched Anna grow into a lovely young woman over the last six years.

The Best of Boyhood

2008-05-10T15:00:00.007-04:00

Last night was spent babysitting for a four year old boy named Phillip. I can't begin to tell you how active he is! It was a evening filled with dinner, a walk around the block, playing baseball in the back yard, watching him ride his bike and scooter around the drive-way, dribbling the basketball, and much, much more. Boys are indeed full of adventure and curiosity!

Going for a stroll with wagon in hand!

Yipppee!!! Swinging off the barn, or rather "castle" as he called it!

Highlights From Our Time At The 2008 GHEA

2008-05-04T21:53:00.010-04:00

So, this year at GHEA mom and I had a wonderful time meeting up with old friends as well as meeting new ones. I was able to find a couple of things in the used book sale that I'm already enjoying; Douglas Wilson’s book Standing On The Promises, A Handbook of Biblical Childrearing. I’m really looking forward to begin reading and studying this one. I also came upon a video of a message that Dr. S.M. Davis preached titled, God’s Plan for Finding a Mate. Afterwards, mom and I headed over to the Vision Forum table and found many wonderful goodies! We met a couple of very nice men that were working at the table and they were very helpful in answering our questions. I purchased Family Driven Faith by Dr. Voddie Baucham, Raising Maidens of Virtue by Mrs. Stacy McDonald, and the Back to Genesis CD set. One of the things that I purchased that day will have to be shipped since they didn’t have any copies in stock. The new dvd, What is Biblical Femininity? You can check it out if you click on the title!

-In front of the Vision Forum table-

-Walking into the Curriculum Hall-

Headed Down Memory Lane...

2008-04-29T20:53:00.008-04:00

Looking back over the years that we home schooled, going to the GHEA conference every May was a time of refreshment, finding wonderful books, and meeting people with great vision for their families. Although I graduated 2 years ago, we are going back to be a part of something that changed our lives. It was in going to the GHEA conference where we met Mr. Doug Phillips and the Vision Forum Ministry. To see many families as a part of a God honoring choice in raising their children with Deuteronomy 6 as their foundation is so beautiful to see! I hope that one day I will be there looking for books to teach my own children. If any of you are interested in attending this year's conference and curriculum fair, you can register online at ghea.org Hope to see you there!

It's Here!

2008-04-28T20:36:00.008-04:00

After much research, pricing, and prayer I decided on a sewing machine! This past Friday I went and purchased the Husqvarna Viking Sapphire 830, that's a mouth full! I think I should come up with a name for her...she's definitely a beauty.It's such a blessing to be able to work on such a nicely made machine.

I Can't Wait To See This....

2008-04-20T16:04:00.003-04:00

How do you define a real woman???

2008-04-01T09:04:00.012-04:00

If you are like me and you have been pondering a lot about the future and what kind of woman you want or hope to be, reading this excerpt this past week was exactly what I needed to hear! It's so easy to get caught up in what the world's definition of a real woman is! Oh, how I want to be known as a woman after God's own heart!
Here is an excerpt from, So Much More by Anna Sofia Botkin and Elizabeth Botkin:

What is a real woman?

Former U.S. Senate Chaplain Peter Marshall lamented back in the 1940’s ,

“Godly womanhood…the very phrase sounds strange in our ears. We never hear it now. We hear about every other type of women: beautiful women, smart women, sophisticated women, career women, talented women, divorced women. But so seldom do we hear of a godly woman—or of a godly man either, for that matter. We believe women come nearer to fulfilling their God given function in the home than anywhere else. It is a much nobler thing to be a good wife, than to be Miss America. It is a greater achievement to establish a Christian home than it is to produce a second-rate novel filled with filth. It is a far, far better thing in the realms of morals to be old-fashioned, than to be ultra modern. The world has enough women who know how to be smart. It needs women who are willing to be simple. The world has enough women who know how to be brilliant. It needs some who will be brave. The world has enough women who are popular. It needs more who are pure. We need women, and men, too, who would rather be morally right than socially correct.”

A real woman is a woman who recognizes that she has been exquisitely and perfectly created by a loving God for a unique purpose. Out of genuine gratitude, awe and a desire to please her Maker, a real woman joyfully embraces her femininity and submits every aspect of her identity—the attitudes and affections of her heart and mind, her appearance, her manners, her speech, her ambitions and her beliefs—to God’s original and unique designed femininity because masculinity was not enough in itself to represent God’s image and glory. The differences between man and women glorify God, and downplaying these differences downplays God’s glory. A real woman wants to bring glory to God by being a woman.

So, what is a real woman to you?

Mother & Daughter Evening In...

2008-03-29T12:24:00.009-04:00

Miss Collins and Mrs. Collins were the perfect hostesses and we had such an enjoyable evening! Laughter and conversation definitely filled the room that night!

Sitting down to a delicious dinner!

A feast for the eyes!!!

Abby, Jennie, Mallory, Myself, and Anna.

Drew comes down to Georgia!

2008-03-27T10:26:00.004-04:00

I don’t get to see this little guy all that often but when I do I enjoy every minute of it! Here are a couple of shots that were taken during breakfast this past Saturday. The first time I met Drew I instantly had so much love for him! I am so blessed that I get to be his aunt and definitely can’t wait to watch him grow into a little boy!

This is my daily prayer...

2008-03-26T10:11:00.009-04:00

The Daily Prayer
(From Victory of the Darkness by Neil Anderson)

Dear Heavenly Father, I honor you as my sovereign Lord. I acknowledge that you are always present with me. You are the only all-powerful and all-wise God. You are kind and loving in all your ways. I love you, and I thank you that I am united with Christ and spiritually alive in him. I choose not to love the world, and I crucify my flesh and all it's passions. I thank you for the life that I now have in Christ, and I ask you to fill me with your Holy Spirit that I may live my life free from sin. I declare my dependence upon you, and I take my stand against Satan and all his lying ways. I choose to believe the truth, and I refuse to be discouraged. You are the God of all hope, and I am confident that you will meet my needs as I seek to live according to your Word. I express with confidence that I can live a responsible life through Christ who strengthens me. I now take my stand against Satan and command him and all his evil spirits to depart from me. I put on the whole armor of God. I submit my body as a living sacrifice and renew my mind by the living Word of God in order that I may prove that the will of God is good, acceptable, and perfect. I ask these things in the precious name of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Brunch at J.Christopher's, Kate's 4th Birthday Party, and Easter Lunch with the Clifford Family!!!

2008-03-23T13:03:00.016-04:00

Jennifer, Me, Drew, and my Mom having breakfast!

My mom finally got to meet my nephew Drew!

DREW!!!!

Game Time.

This was such a creative flower arrangment I just had to take a picture of it.

The Birthday Girl who is now officially 4 years old....my, oh, my...how time flies!

Blow 'em out Kate!!!

Now, this little girl was very entertaining...her actions were priceless!

With all the excitement the children were having during the opening of gifts,

she was much more interested in her ice cream sundae!

We all had a wonderful Easter lunch at the Clifford's...

Spring has Sprung!

2008-03-18T15:49:00.005-04:00

Well, the first day of spring is tomorrow and I am officially getting the gardening bug! It's seems that every year around this time I get out all of the books along with my notebook full of magazine articles on how to plan the perfect garden for our yard. I always plant a few flowers here and there and try to take care of the huge hydrangeas that are all around our yard. However, I have big dreams for our yard, it's not that big but I think it has potential. I've always wanted a place outside that I could go and sit in a chair and look at flowers, sipping hot tea, and be able to be still before the Lord. When I'm in the middle of nature I see His beauty much more clearly than I would sitting inside. While getting ready for this season of planting and growing, I noticed a book that my mom had purchased at a used book sale sometime last year. It's called The Gardener's Guide to Life: Timeless Lessons Based on the Principles of Gardening Compiled and Edited by Criswell Freeman. It is filled with great quotes and old sayings and here are a few that I thought I'd share with you.

Did you ever think how a bit of land displays the character of the owner?

Laura Ingalls Wilder

Gardeners, I think, dream bigger dreams than emperors.

Mary Cantwell

Flowers are heavens masterpieces.

Dorothy Parker

A morning-glory at my window satisfies me more than the metaphysics of books.

Walt Whitman

Photography by Liz West

Meeting the Granddaughter of Marie von Trapp

2008-03-16T15:40:00.010-04:00

Last night I had the privilege of seeing Elisabeth von Trapp in concert. A voice like no other, I was in awe of the beauty that came out of her. She had a cellist that accompanied her by the name of Erich Kory and they performed music from Bach to Broadway. From someone growing up watching the Sound of Music it was a dream come true to sing along with her to the song

My Favorite Things! Afterwards, I got her autograph and a picture!

-Elizabeth and Elisabeth-

Elisabeth Von Trapp in concert!

Living A Beautiful Life

2008-03-11T11:59:00.007-04:00

There is one book that I go to on occasion for inspiration; it's called Living A Beautiful Life by Alexandra Stoddard. She has such a way of creating beauty in the day to day things. At the end of each chapter she has ideas and tips that she calls "Grace Notes" and I thought I'd share with you some of her notes on the chapter titled Rituals.

~Grace Notes~

Work smarter, not harder. When you feel overwhelmed, take a break from whatever is causing you pressure and attend to some necessary tasks that will please you and bring instant gratification. Organize your desk top or a drawer or two. Then go back with new energy to the bigger tasks.

When you're feeling out of sorts and blue, pick up a favorite art book and rejuvenate yourself through the beauty of the pictures.

Spray cologne in a box stationery and put the top back on. The wonderful scent will be there for you as soon as you open the lid to write a note. The recipient of your letter will enjoy it as well.

Go to a specialty store, and buy some small, distinctive item. For instance, Tender Buttons in New York is a wonderful little store that has turned the button into an art form. I go there and buy a set of blazer or other buttons to spruce up an old coat. This makes me feel wonderfully refreshed.

Line the inside of your closet door with art postcards. Use double-sided Scotch tape so you can peek at the back if you need to check an artist's name of the painting. Get dressed with art.

Mark new seasons with childhood reminiscences: In spring, fly a kite, In summer, make a sand castle, In fall, rake leaves and go hiking, In winter, go for a walk in newly fallen snow.

Hang a favorite quilt on your living-room wall behind your sofa, or in your bedroom over a loveseat. Use Velcro on a wooden strip and sew Velcro on the top of the quilt to protect the edges.

Be three minutes early for your next appointment and wait calmly. While you'll show respect for someone else's time and life, you will also have time to compose your thoughts.

Lift your mood with a new fragrance.

Burn up calories as you bustle around tidying up. Put on some running shoes and be aware of bending from the waist as you pick things off the floor. Fast fixing up can be almost aerobic-like when you do it to jazzy music.

Make your own quotation book. Every time you read or think of something you want to remember, enter it in your book. Reviewing your quotes gets you thinking.

Make a personal source guide. When you discover a store that has a product you like, make a note; order by phone or mail, if possible.

Being organized saves time, enabling you to accomplish more and feel more satisfied with yourself. Keep a careful datebook, and weed it out each month.

Have a special basket for the mail. It looks pretty, and it's fun to bring into the living room or library, to open at leisure.

Catching up....

2008-03-05T12:22:00.031-05:00

Photography By: Liz West

I hadn't realized just how long it had been since I last posted something here. Sorry, to those who continue to read this. Since the beginning of February I have had this overwhelming sense of getting some things on my to-do list, accomplished! I have been working on my new business venture and I purchased my first ever business license last week!!! I'm also in the middle of researching sewing machines and will soon be making my first BIG purchase for the business. Not to mention, on another note, I've begun to open the door for my photography. I went to a class on digital photography and will be looking into joining the local photography club. I was offered to be the official event photographer for my local Chamber of Commerce, hopefully that will give me the chance to get my name out there. So, anyway please bear with me in the following weeks with this blog. I look forward to sharing with you all where the Lord is taking me through my creativity! Here are some pictures I took on a photo shoot last weekend.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!!

2008-02-20T13:38:00.010-05:00

Thank you so much for all that you do! You always have the right words to say, you kiss my boo boos and make me laugh when I am down! You raised me with unconditional love, played baby dolls with me, taught me about life, told me about Jesus, read to me, tucked me in bed and prayed with me even when you were exhausted! Here is an excerpt from one book that you read over and over to me. These words you once read will stay with me forever and always! Love you Mommy!

I'll love you forever,

I'll like you for always,

As long as I'm living

my baby you'll be.

Love You Forever By: Robert Munsch

-Play Date With Kate-

2008-02-05T13:13:00.000-05:00

This morning I woke up and went over to babysit for Kate. I enjoy watching her and today I think we played just about everything there is to play! Here is a glimpse of some of the fun we had together today!

Playing with chalk on the driveway... she enjoyed counting all of the numbers while she jumped!

painting in pajamas!

She was pretending that the pine-cone was a bug.

walking the beam.

Today she told me that when she grows up she wants to be a babysitter, too!

Life update...and ramblings!

2008-01-29T19:41:00.001-05:00

I can hardly believe that February will be here in a few days and winter will be gone before we know it, at least for us Georgians, that is! Sorry, to those who live above the Mason-Dixon line! So many things have been keeping us all busy around here. Mom, is staying busy with her work and we are seeking the Lord about our family's future. As she is working outside of the home I am very blessed that I'm able to help her out in many ways around the house. As I'm helping her with the work that she gives me, I don't just do the task in the moment but I learn from what I'm doing so that I may take it with me in the future. Right now, I'm learning how to be frugal and how to plan meals on a budget. Of course, my notebook of menus and recipes are still a work in progress...

I'm so excited about this Saturday because we are attending a Biblical Worldview Conference up in Ellijay, GA. American Vision is hosting the event and the speakers will be: Gary DeMar, Dr. Richard Hanner, Rev. Ron Poch, and Mike Parham. We are all looking forward to hearing these men speak and maybe even meeting some new friends as well!

Also, I have been very busy recently with a new business venture that I am starting and can not believe the overwhelming reaction of excitement from the close friends that I have been sharing with. This is all new and I have been at the library checking out books and online searching trademark laws and all the wonderful stuff with starting a business. In the next couple of weeks I will be attending a entrepreneur expo specifically for starting a small business. Everything seems to be falling in place and my family and I have such a peace about this idea. So, I know you all must be wondering what it is but I am going to hold my peace for now! Well, I just want to set everything in place before I tell you all about it but, I sure am excited!

Okay, I think I've talked enough for one night! I'm quite exhausted tonight as I have worked the entire day striping an old desk that I got at a garage sale. It was such a tedious job and tomorrow I will be sanding and hopefully getting it painted. I'll post pictures later this week!

Well, hope you all are staying warm and doing well...until next time!

The Importance of Tea Time

2008-01-23T15:31:00.002-05:00

Whether you are a coffee drinker or you prefer hot tea, you have to admit that the daily ritual of sitting down, with a warm cup in hand and a good friend for conversation, is something that is lost in our culture. People all over the world know the benefits of taking time from their busy schedules to partake in the important matters of the day. When I think of how ladies in past centuries would come together and sit down for a cup of tea and simply talk to one another, it makes me wish people had that kind of time today. I know that we are all busy people with jam-packed schedules, but don't forget that your friends and families will come and go, however your schedule and to-do lists will stay with you forever! Invite a friend or sit down with your daughter and prepare something to drink and just share some time with one another! I was thinking the other day of one of my favorite memories, the event was my sixteenth birthday party and it was a traditional sit-down tea. There was an older woman that I did babysitting for who became a good friend of mine. She was from England and she blessed me with hosting my tea party. We learned the etiquette and traditions of having tea as well as trying things like scones with clotted cream straight from Devon shire. That afternoon was full of conversation and many laughs, but I think that it showed the importance of taking the time to nurture relationships and minister to friends with a listening ear and a cup of tea!

You're Going To Love This...

2008-01-23T11:20:00.001-05:00

Today, I was searching through the Vision Forum website to look for birthday gifts as well as a few of my wish list items! I decided though that I would wait to show my mom before making a purchase on the items. I was so glad that I had waited, because just after that I went over to Crystal's blog. Much to my suprise she announced today that they were having a give-away for a $100.00 passport over at Vision Forum. If you have never heard of them, please take a moment to browse through their website. I would strongly encourage you to do so! They have been such an encouragement to my family and me. So, hurry on over to Biblical Womanhood to enter this wonderful give-away!

A Lesson In Contentment

2008-01-16T20:26:00.000-05:00

As I've grown older I find that there are many distractions in this world. Some good and some not so good. I'm realizing that while I'm a daughter serving my family from home, I've been blessed in more ways than most. Even though I have my day-to-day list of chores, meals to cook, and clothes to be ironed, I always seem to end my day knowing that I'm a part of a vision that God has placed before my family and myself.

I'm finding how discontent I previously had been through my teenage years. I, like so many girls today, wasted my time looking to the future and not finding rest in where I was that day. For the first time in my life I have had peace with just being at home, reading, baking, having discussions and working. Of course, I anticipate my future of being a wife and mother, if the Lord allows. But I do not lose my focus of where he placed me in the meantime. I hope that you will cherish the time that the Lord has given you with your family. It doesn't last forever but the memories do. I'd like to end this post with an excerpt from one of my favorite books, Home-Making By: J.R. Miller. "May God help every one of us to live at home so tenderly, so unselfishly, so lovingly, that the memories we make within our own doors shall be our own holiest requiem, on the breath of which our spirits may be wafted away to glory in the Home in our Father's House!"

TODAY...

2008-01-16T18:07:00.001-05:00

It snowed in Georgia!!! Since I hadn't been feeling all that well today with a runny nose and coughing. This suprise definitely cheered me up! The funny thing was that I called my friend Courteney who lives about an hour away on the east side of Georgia to tell her about it snowing here. While on the phone with her, she got another call from a friend letting her know about the flurries that she had spotted! I think us Georgians like to make a BIG deal out of a little bit of snow...

Goals For This Week

2008-01-14T11:01:00.001-05:00

Okay, so for this week I thought I would post some goals that I have been wanting to accomplish. This is just a basic list of things that have been on my heart.

1. Continue in memorizing a bible verse, this week is Hebrews 12:2.

2. Be consistent with my quiet time each morning.

3. Have a cheerful heart throughout the day.

4. Look for ways that I can bless my family & friends.

5. Don't hesitate in showing kindness while I'm out doing errands.

6. Start back on piano theory...this is something that I desperately want to learn but haven't been diligent in taking the time to study.

7. Spend some time outdoors while the weather is still pleasant.

8. Begin to look for new fabric and start getting my plan together for my future business idea.

I hope that everyone has a blessed week!

Memorizing Scripture

2008-01-09T16:21:00.001-05:00

I’m joining along with my new friend Meredith and her siblings in memorizing a scripture from the bible each week! For this week we are memorizing: Philippians 2:14-15

"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe." Philippians 2:14-15

A View of My Room!

2008-01-09T14:06:00.000-05:00

My lovely dresser that I received from my mom.

The very, very, full bulletin board.

My beloved night stand table that was given to me by my friend Mary Ellen! I had traveled to Maryland and was gone for about a month and when I arrived home I found this lovely little table in my room!

My bed.

-My display of pictures of family & friends-

This is my mantel where I keep my collection of treasures.

If there is one thing I love it is decorating! I love collecting things on trips or outings with some of my friends. I have so many things that people have brought back to me from their travels. Postcards from Australia and New Zealand, my friend Mallory brought me a glass monkey from from China this past summer, then her parents were planning on going to Italy this fall and I asked if they would bring me a small rock back. I have this strange love of Italy! Never did I imagine that they would bring me back a piece of a rock from an old cathedral, as well as some unusual little things. Another possession that I have is a painting that a dear friend of the family painted in her younger years of a coastal scene. Pictures are also something that I enjoy having all over my room; on my wall is a bulletin board full of memories. Each year I change out the letters I receive, things that I accomplish, or a simple list of things to do. I have a book that was signed and given to me by a well-known southern writer whom I had the privilege of meeting. Anyway, I thought I would show you a bit of what I like.

Julia Childs Wanna Be!

2008-01-09T10:25:00.001-05:00

When in doubt you're home alone on a Tuesday night... why not bake a cake! Everyone went out to eat last night but I didn't feel like going. So, I surprised them with this dessert when they came walking in the house. Not to mention the aroma that was in the house while baking was wonderful!

Yum! Apple-Oatmeal Coffee Cake with a Oat-Streusel Topping!

Our 1st Christmas Cookie Exchange Party!

2007-12-14T16:44:00.001-05:00

Tuesday evening we hosted our first ever Christmas Cookie Exchange party! It was such a hit and I believe all of the guest had a great time. Of course I think all of us have no desire to cook any more cookies for awhile...

Hundreds of cookies everywhere!!!

The group minus a few people who had to leave.

Kate test tasting the cookies I made.

-Me-

photography by: Courteney Lauren

The pink gingerbread men that I made!

A Dream Come True....

2007-12-06T17:11:00.000-05:00

This was the group!

Me taking a break after all that walking.

This Wednesday I had the opportunity to go to the High Museum of Art in Atlanta. This was my second time since they have been bringing over art from the Louvre in Paris. I am a huge fan of art but I have a certain love for the Impressionist period. So, it was such a treat that this time the exhibit that was showing was "Inspiring Impressionism". I had the honor of viewing artwork from Degas, Renoir, Cassatt, Cezanne, Pissarro, and Monet, to name a few! As I was walking through I jotted down several quotes and names of paintings that I found fascinating. Here is some of what I wrote down.

No art is less spontaneous than mine. What I do is the result of reflection and the study of the Old Masters. -Degas (1834-1917)

I believe that painting cannot be taught, and that it is not necessary to study with a master. Museums are all the teachers one needs. -Cassatt (1844-1926)

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!

2007-11-22T14:53:00.000-05:00

This morning I had the honor of volunteering with Feed My Sheep Ministries! My mom, step-dad, and I went and received bags of meals as well as a list of homes to take them to! It was very nice to see the smiles on their faces when we delivered them! It’s so easy to forget about the people who aren’t as fortunate as we are. We also took many plates of food to our local Police & Fire Rescue men & women! I have been thinking about all the many things of which I’m blessed with! Freedom, family, wonderful friends, a cozy house, food, love, and SO much more! I hope that you all are having a day filled with Thanks & Giving!!!

Let the feasting begin!!!

I think I got his good side :)

Yum...Souffle'!!!!

*Mother & Daughter*

Green Bean Casserole...

Playing around in the kitchen!

I love Fall :)

- Virginia Pictures Part III -

2007-11-20T19:30:00.002-05:00

This was the view from my seat on the way back home.

The Capitol.

This is the Vice President's house!

~Me~

~ Anna~

Looking out from the Cathedral!

What a view!

My brother & nephew.

Jason, Jen, and Drew!

This is where the President sits when he comes and visits!

- Virginia Pictures Part II -

2007-11-20T16:15:00.001-05:00

This window had a piece of the moon in it!

The Washington National Cathedral!

Sleeping baby!!! Too Cute :)

Jennifer getting directions from the GPS on her cell phone....NICE!

Our next stop later that afternoon was WASHINGTON, D.C.!!!

Good Job Guys! ( Me & Jen went to Dunkin' Donuts and got hot chocolate for them!)

Saturday morning Anna & Jason ran a 5 mile turkey trot on the base!

Awwwwwww!!!!!

This would be me with ALL of our luggage!

The Alexandria Train Station. It was like something off an old movie!

All Aboard!

Anna & I arrived in Alexandria Virginia Friday! I think we had about 4 hours of sleep that night.

God is an amazing artist!

Watching the sunrise Friday morning.

Saying Goodbye To My New Family!

2007-11-20T15:37:00.001-05:00

~Aunt Liz & Drew~

Jason, Me, and Drew!

-Anna & Drew-

Isn't he the cutest!

(I absolutely hated saying goodbye to my new nephew Drew! I loved getting to know him and being able to hold him for the first time! I miss that little guy!)

2007-11-20T15:31:00.001-05:00

One last photo before boarding on the train to Washington D.C.

The lovely but deserted train station in Quantico, VA.

Just found out that our train was delayed. ( We were at Union Station for almost 7 hours!!!)

These guys were the best! We made so many friends! I'll never ever forget this day for the rest of my life!

Meeting Jason, Jennifer, and Drew!!!

2007-11-20T15:24:00.001-05:00

I just got back home yesterday from the great state of Virginia! Anna and I took a trip up on Amtrak to meet my brother Jason, his wonderful wife, Jennifer and their 14-week old baby, Drew, for the first time! They were such a blessing to the both of us! I will remember that trip for the rest of my life. I couldn't believe how much Jason and I resembled each other. I even found out we have some things in common. I can’t wait to visit them again! It was truly hard to say goodbye.

Finding My Heart At Home

Pictures from Cape Cod & Boston...Part I

Is off to Boston!

Shot of the day.

Some Thoughts...

Babysitting, Birthdays, 5ks, and lots of catching up...

A Giveaway at Joyfully Home

It's time to come out of hiding!

Weekend in Columbus, GA

Something the Lord has been showing me...

My To-Do List For 2009...

Twelve Books I Hope to Read in 2009

Poetry to think about...

My very scary Wednesday!

My Daybook...

The Annie Moses Band Comes To Town...

I'm BACK!!!

Happy 4th of July!!!

When Life Gives You Lemons...Make Lemonade!

I've been tagged!

The Joy of a Good Book

What I love about our yard in the summer.

For He's A Jolly Good Fellow!!!!

Memorial Day Weekend...

Let us pray.....

Project of the week in pictures...Day 2

Project of the week in pictures....Day 1

Congratulations Anna!

The Best of Boyhood

Highlights From Our Time At The 2008 GHEA

Headed Down Memory Lane...

It's Here!

I Can't Wait To See This....

How do you define a real woman???

Mother & Daughter Evening In...

Drew comes down to Georgia!

This is my daily prayer...

Brunch at J.Christopher's, Kate's 4th Birthday Party, and Easter Lunch with the Clifford Family!!!

Spring has Sprung!

Meeting the Granddaughter of Marie von Trapp

Living A Beautiful Life

Catching up....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!!

-Play Date With Kate-

Life update...and ramblings!

The Importance of Tea Time

You're Going To Love This...

A Lesson In Contentment

TODAY...

*Goals For This Week*

*Memorizing Scripture*

A View of My Room!

Julia Childs Wanna Be!

Our 1st Christmas Cookie Exchange Party!

A Dream Come True....

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!

- Virginia Pictures Part III -

- Virginia Pictures Part II -

Saying Goodbye To My New Family!

Meeting Jason, Jennifer, and Drew!!!

Goals For This Week

Memorizing Scripture