Total Woman Tuesday

Brittany over at The High-Heeled Housewife is BACK!!! wahoooo! If you're as excited as I am, join me in the return of her Total Woman Tuesdays series!  

{Brittany is one of my motivations to start and keep up with this blog. She's so truely inspiring, and I can't wait for her to come back in full force in a few months once she becomes a SAHW!} Brittany says: 'What's your hubby's favorite dinner?  Make it for him tonight or sometime soon...and remember to tell him how much you adore him!' I can't wait to do this challenge when hubbs-to-be gets home! Yes, he is still in West Virginia! He's had a HORRIBLE few weeks up there. Not so much with the state, but with the people he works with... I've been trying to figure out what to cook for him when he gets home Friday! {*squeal*, he's coming home in 3 days ♥ } Here are his top 10 favorite meals that I've cooked:Beef BourguignonVenison ChiliManicottiChicken Fried Venison SteaksGooey BurgersPork Chops or TenderloinHawaiian Chicken with my famous Hawaiian RiceCarne GuisadaGrilled Sirloin or RibeyesTaco Casserole  Here's the low-down on these:It's too warm and springy now to make Chili.I'm out of deer meat, unfortunately :( I can't stand Taco Casserole, but HE loves it! {bleh} {a large dose of Chocolate Lava Cakes will be made while he is home. its the one item he has begged for since being gone, not that I have a problem with it} WHAT DO YOU THINK I SHOULD MAKE HIM???{leave a comment below about your fave on the list, or give me a new idea} { *i love comments* , come on, make my day, please?}{i'll be sharing whichever recipe, if new, after i make it, if that doesn't entice you to comment}{ok, now i'm begging ♥ }  

♥ 7 years of unconditional LOVE ♥

Today, January 27th, is Brian and I's 7 year anniversary!

7 years ago, today, Brian asked me to "go out" with him and be his girlfriend. It was our junior year in high school. I was 16, about to turn 17 in April. Brian had just turned 18, five days before on January 22nd. (He just turned 25, 5 days ago from today! He's now a quarter century old!)

On August 13th, 2003, Brian walked into the subway in our hometown. He was a new, hot boy in my life. The new kid in school. He happened to walk in with my ex-boyfriend, to grab a sandwich in between his two-a-day football practice. I was working there over the summer, wearing my korny subway uniform with the smell of food lingering (I was making his food before he even knew it). He was sweaty, stinky, dirty, and so beyond steamy. I can still remember exactly how he looked. I was in love. Immediately my heart started racing, my body got all hot and bothered, and then I started sweating too. I wanted to have him all to myself. I wanted dibs...lol.

I quickly asked my ex who this stud was, and Brian replied quickly with "I'm Brian Lee". I melted right then and there. I had always wanted to date a Brian and he had a last name that was easy and smooth, and went really well with my first name. I was already planning out our future from the moment I met him.

We quickly flirted and then he was off to eat. A couple of visits of lunch later, I asked for his number, and he had no problem giving it to me. From then on we were inseperable, until high school drama got stirred up, and he didn't like the fact that everyone thought we were together and going out.

Long story short, he called me annoying to my friends and I overheard the conversation, I ignored him, dated 2 other guys, he went out with a friend of mine for a few months while I ignored him, they broke up, he stalked me, and called me daily, for the entire month of December {while I was still ignoring him}, his birthday came around and all of a sudden my mom made me answer his 5th phone call for the night. He just wanted to hang out, so we did.

Days later, my best friend and maid of honor, dared me to go out with him if he asked, for revenge. Days later, he asked, and I was ready to stab him in the back for hurting me. 2 weeks later, he whispered 'I love you' into my ear during the halftime of the superbowl {the year the Janet Jackson fiasco happened}. I was shocked. I wasn't ready. I had just gotten out of a horrible, abusive relationship with a 21 year old guy and was scared.

I told him that I needed time, and within a matter of days, I realized how much I loved him. I told him right away, and the rest of the story is history.

I'm amazed at how fast 7 years has gone by. Way too fast. Alot of the time, I admit, I took our relationship for granted. He's dealt with my being pushy, over-controlling, emotional, moody, depressed, sick, unfaithful, etc. Everything that I could have thrown at him possible, and he stuck with me through it all.

I can't explain how much I love this man. He is everything I could have ever asked for from God and more. I am truely blessed to be marrying this man in less than 9 months. I am blessed to be spending the rest of my life with him. I am blessed that this man loves me more than anything else in this world. I am so blessed he wants to grow old together, and have a family with me.
So, To Brian, if you're reading this:

I love you with all of my heart and soul.
I love the life that we've built and the moments and memories we share.
I love your laugh, and that one look you give me.
I love the way you call me woman, and say 'there she is' when I call you or answer your phone calls.
I love the way you love me with all of your heart and you sometimes can't resist me.
I love how you rub your eyes when you're sleepy, like a baby.
I love how you roll your clothes when you pack.
I love how you spend the majority of your days working so that I can have a life at home.
I love how you trust me unconditionally, and never underestimate me.
I love how you lick my dinner plates clean, and burp after a meal, and say 'compliments to the chef' instead of 'excuse me'. {sorry for telling the world your tacky manners, lol.}
I love how you open the door, EVERY TIME, for me, and let the world know that chivalry still exists.
I love how you have so much love for your brother, who lives halfway around the world and how much you love your nephew that you've never met.

You are an amazing man, and I LOVE YOU! I look forward to growing old with you!

In lue of our anniversary, I have started the valentine challenge going on over at Women Livng Well Blog. The 'Be My Valentine Challenge'. Even though I'm not married, I still wanted to join the challenge.

Week 1: Look for ways to praise your husband verbally. Praise him in front of the kids, friends, family, co-workers, on facebook, tweet it - get praise out anyway you can!
♥ I praised him verbally and on facebook on his birthday, and just bombarded facebook and told him on the phone. ♥

Week 2: Get creative with your selflessness!
♥ I have planned some really exciting things for today once Brian gets home from his job! I will update once our anniversary is over, most likely after the weekend {Brian is probably reading this so I can't tell ya'll!} :) ♥

This is us nearly 3 months after we started dating. {Junior Prom 2004}

♥

God Bless,

Things my BFF should know...

{if you're visiting from a linky party, such as Debbie-Doo's Newby Linky Party, this is the post where you can learn about me! Click around to find some recipes, just a day in the life posts, and much more! Stay for a while, won't you?!}

I've joined a little party going on over @ Little Miss Momma. She had a series of secrets going on, and I read what her readers were saying. Now she has started this cute blogging party about things people should know if they are going to be reading her blog.

So here are some things you should know if we're going to be BFF...

I cook in a dirty kitchen because I always have a pile of dishes that overflows my kitchen sink. I actually have dirty dishes under the sink from when I had people over 2 weeks ago.

I weigh the same as my future husband...it's sad. I wish I could be 125 lbs. I've filled out the Biggest Loser Audition Application 5 times, but have ripped every one of them up immediately after I finish.

I have 27 Days of our Lives episodes on my DVR that need to be watched dating back to November 11 of this year.

I sleep with a maroon pillow I got in high school, and a stuffed dog that Brian gave to me when we first started dating. I take it everywhere I sleep.

I am a night owl, and if I have to wake up early, I'm usually grumpy.

Our bedroom is a room I can't stand to be in, unless Brian is with me. The floor is full of clothes, both dirty and clean, and its boring.

I never eat breakfast, unless it has chocolate in it, or its super sweet.  Like my new-found caramel sauce.

I often stalk my own blog and its stats, hoping that someone has commented or viewed it.

I've tried dozens of different diets over the past 5 years, and none of them have worked.

I wish I had children and have wished that for the past 3 years. My goal in life is to be an amazing wife, mother, and homemaker for my family. I'm hoping that I get pregnant on our honeymoon in October so we can have kids soon!

I'm obsessed with ghost shows, even though I don't believe in ghosts/spirits. I'm very curious about what ghost hunters have to prove.

I truly want to go chase a tornado or two with the Storm Chasers.

I want 4 kids with Brian, if not more!

I have 2 tatoos, one on my left thigh, and another on the top of my right foot. I plan on getting more.

I've lived in 6 different cities in TX in the past 5 years.

I sleep in 7 days a week.

I love God more than I love my husband-to-be, but of course its a different love.

My life, and Brian's life is a road trip. We travel so much. But I love every bit of it. Brian on the other hand only loves the part of driving with me, not for work.

When I cook, there is always butter involved, and some sugar too.

Last week I burned pinto beans because the water evaporated while I was stalking blogs.

I don't measure when I cook, I guesstimate, just like my mom.

I never talk with the phone up to my ear. I use the speakerphone on my iPhone 4.

I'm in love with Harry Potter books and movies.

If I go out of town, I only go #1. I never go #2 anywhere but my house, my mom's house, or my grandparents houses. The only times I have ever done #2 anywhere else has been when I actually couldn't hold it in.

I often crop the bottom half of myself out of pictures because I only like pictures of myself from my boobs up!

I'm an oldschool scrapbooker, but am tempted to try digi-scrapping, but I'm not sure if I want to pay the big bucks to do so.

When someone/something makes me mad...the first emotion is crying...and it usually takes hours for me to stop.

And there are so many more...this is maybe just 1/8 of what I could tell you. I've added to this list twice because I thought of more!

God Bless,

 

Challenge Review Time!

{taken at Pedernales Electric Coop in Johnson City, Tx}

Hey all! I think I've come to realize that Tuesdays are my blogging days. Lately I've been posting on Tuesdays because of the challenges going on in the blogosphere! Forgive me for not posting as often as I was before. Christmas is such a busy time of year, and its no different for me! Here are my entries for the challenges!

Courtney @ Women Living Well, who is hosting the Peace on Earth Challenge, says:

Here's this week's challenge: Christmas is just 4 days away and so much of our time is often spent helping the children to remember the "Reason for the Season". Now it's our turn. Once the kids are in bed get yourself a HOT drink (again we are warming the body as we warm the soul.) Get ALONE and turn out the lights by your Christmas tree, a lit fire, or a candle and just be alone with God. Pray, talk to him, I encourage you to sing Christmas carols or songs praising him, and just rest with Jesus.

I haven't had the chance to do this weeks challenge just yet. I have planned some time with Brian tonight. But its in question because of the possibility of him going out on another job for the next few days. If he does go out, he'll be back Thursday afternoon. I can't wait to turn the lights out and just gaze at the Christmas Tree, and pray. I'll probably flip my iPhone over to some Christmas tunes too! It's a PLAN!

Brittany @ The High-Heeled Housewife, is hosting My Favorite Things Challenge.

December 20: My favorite encouragement from the Bible

I have to admit...I have several favorite encouragements from the Bible. God's word is so effective on me, and I take everything he says to me to heart. However, I do have 2 verses that I try to live my life by, as well as a verse that I try to fulfill even though I am not married yet.

Phillipians 4:13~I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
This verse speaks to me, because when I often feel discouraged, I pray to God to show me motivation and strength. This is usually what pops in my head after I've talked to God. It comes to me as "With God, all things are possible." I am so blessed! Jesus sacrificed himself so that I could have a wonder-FULL life! Every moment I get, I praise him, thank him, and ask "What can I do for you, Lord?!"

Joshua 1:9~This is my command-be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
This verse applies as well to my life. God wants me to be strong and courageous. He doesn't want me to ever be afraid or discouraged. He is with me no matter where I am, or what I am doing. He wants the best for me, and wants me to be at my best at all times, so that Satan can never reap the benefits of my discouragement, weakness, and cowardness.
Proverbs 31:10-31
This is a long one, but it speaks for itself. I got this off of another blogger who got this from an unknown source online. This is a study of the verses of  A Wife of Noble Character-Proverbs 31 Woman. It explains each verse for us wives {to be in my case} to live by! What an amazing woman she is...I strive to be this woman, every day.

vs. 10 - "A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies."
She is “priceless!” She is a woman after God's own heart.

vs. 11 - "Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value."
A virtuous woman inspires absolute confidence in her husband. He can “safely trust in her” (KJV). She is not impetuous, scatterbrained, or unpredictable. Rather, she can be trusted. Her husband can be confident in her. She will never deliberately let him down.
vs. 12 - "She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life."
The Proverbs 31 woman “brings him good” — that is, her husband. She is not a “liberated” woman as defined by modern feminists. She is God-fearing (vs. 31), a woman of God, and also very much husband- and family-oriented. And these are seen throughout this chapter as positive traits. She brings him good. There does seem to be biblical wisdom in the modern-day axiom that “behind every good man stands a good woman”. She is an asset to her husband. She will never intentionally bring harm his way.

vs. 13 - "She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands."
She is skilled and capable in working with fabric. The modern counterpart would be skill in things like quilting and sewing. And notice that “she works”. There is no hint of laziness in this woman who is praised by God. And she “worketh willingly with her hands” (KJV). She is “willing to get her hands dirty”, as the old saying goes. She is no prima donna! A woman of God is not “above” manual work.

vs. 14 -"She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar."
She understands that the duties of a wife and mother include ensuring that her family is well fed. A virtuous, biblical woman, may I suggest, will excel in this area. She will not only go about to learn the necessary cooking skills, but she will study sound nutrition and will ensure that her family is fed nutritiously, not with a high proportion of out-of-the-box junk food.

vs. 15 - "She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions to her woman servants."
This virtuous woman, this praiseworthy woman of God, is not given to “sleeping in” in the mornings. No! Rather, she is up before dawn to make sure that her household is well fed.

vs. 16 - "She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard."
Amazing! The Proverbs 31 woman is no wimp! She has the intelligence and business sense to evaluate a piece of property and to buy it. She has her own “earnings”, with which she buys the field and plants a vineyard.
vs. 17 - "She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks."
The virtuous woman is not afraid of physical work.

vs. 18 - "She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night."
Like the bible’s virtuous woman, many modern women have their own home-based businesses. The woman in Proverbs 31 seems to have been a seamstress who sold garments and sashes. She apparently did her business well, working well into the evening, because “her trading [was] profitable”.
vs. 19 - "In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers."
The virtuous woman learns domestic skills. My beloved maternal grandmother was an excellent seamstress. Her husband had died and left her a widow with seven children at home. Her skills at making clothing were essential to keeping her children well clothed.

vs. 20 - "She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy."
Her home-based skills have earned her a profitable income. She is ever willing to share this blessing with the poor and needy.
vs. 21 - "When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet."
The godly woman is fully aware of the priority of her family in her life over other things that might sidetrack her from her domestic responsibilities. She is an excellent illustration of the charge to younger women in Titus 2 (verse 5) to be “busy at home”.

vs. 22 - "She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple."
Not only do the skills of this woman of God earn her an income from the merchants, she also makes sure that her own home’s needs are well cared for. The Proverbs 31 woman does not neglect her own appearance. She uses her skills to provide attractive clothing for herself.

vs. 23 - "Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land."
Notice the God-approved division of responsibilities. She was at home, caring for her home and family. He was in a place of respect at the city gates among the elders of the land. The city gates are where much ancient commerce was conducted. So it is not unreasonable to surmise that the husband was conducting his business affairs there.
vs. 24 - "She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes."
Already mentioned earlier, she seems to have had a home-based business. The surrounding verses make it clear, though, that she did not do this at the expense of the well-being of her household.

vs. 25 - "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come."
The virtuous woman has a sense of dignity. She is not frivolous or embarrassing in her conduct. She looks to the future and makes sure that her household is well supplied, so that she can “laugh at the days to come”.
vs. 26 - "She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue."
This godly woman speaks with wisdom. The virtuous woman will offer faithful instruction. The context of the surrounding verses places the location of this instruction in her home. She made the home a place of both love and learning.
vs. 27 - "She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness."
The bible defines the husband as the head of the home (1 Timothy 3:4-5; 1 Corinthians 11:3). However, his daytime responsibilities are outside the home, at “the city gates” (vs. 23). The wife-and-mother is at home, as this chapter clearly indicates. So it is her daily responsibility (not his) to “watch over the affairs of her household” (vs. 27). This is consistent with the apostle Paul’s counsel to the younger widows to “marry, to have children, to manage their homes...” (1 Timothy 5:14).The virtuous woman “does not eat the bread of idleness”. To this day I marvel at my wife’s energy and drive to maintain a nice, orderly home. “Idleness” is a word that is alien to her!

vs. 28 - "Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:"
Children raised by an involved, dedicated, loving, at-home mom rarely grow up feeling estranged from her. Rather, they bless her! Likewise, the husband of such a virtuous woman will overflow with praise for her from his heart
vs. 29 - "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
That is the sentiment that a biblical, virtuous woman as described in this chapter will evoke in her husband’s heart — “You are the best!”

vs. 30 - "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be raised."
God is reminding us that beauty and charm are fleeting, temporal things. But that which earns genuine praise for a woman is that she is a God-fearing woman.

vs. 31 - "Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate."
A virtuous woman has a great reward coming from the Lord in eternity, along with the great fulfillment she will experience in this life for a “job well done”. And her virtues will not only be known and blessed by her husband and children (vs. 28), but also her reputation will precede her to the “city gates”. The godly woman, whose life is patterned after Proverbs 31:10-31, will be well known and highly respected in her community.


If you've managed to read this entire post, THANK YOU! I know its long, and ranty, but thank you for following and reading my every words!

God Bless,
 

crazy.busy.december!

Hey readers!

{don't you just LOVE my the new look for my blog, I DO...thank goodness I'm so tech savvy, look at the lil snowman on the right!!! I can't help but change my blog to accomodate the seasons of our lives}

I know that I haven't been too consistent with my posts lately. Brian has been gone ALOT since September. I've been at my parents ALOT since October because of Brian being out of town. I have been crazy busy with all of the CHRISTmas hooplah! It's so exciting that the CHRISTmas season is here!

So tonight I am posting my horribly late challenge posts.

Over at Women Living Well, it is week 3 of the Peace On Earth Challenge

This week's challenge:

Pull out your calendar and SCHEDULE a night where you will go to bed very very early. Take your Bible with you to bed and read in bed for at least 5 minutes. Read in Isaiah 7:14, Micah 5:2, Jeremiah 23:5, and Isaiah 53. These are prophecies that were fulfilled by the birth and life of Jesus. Get extra blankets for a warm nights rest, pray God gives you deep rest and that no one wakes you. Then turn out the lights and sleep. I pray that when you wake, you face the new day of Christmas stress with extra strength and vigor.

So, Sunday night, I went to bed early...well, earlier than normal. I took my *bible* and read the recommended verses/chapters. I wrapped myself up in blankets and slept like a baby. I had wonderful time alone to myself and really got in touch with God...it was truly awesome. *Believe it or not...I actually do not have a real bible. I've had several, however, throughout my moving experiences, I have lost track of them. I have The Message, as well as a KJV plain jane bible...its so sad that I can't find them, but I am determined to do so. I actually read the bible from my iPhone. It's so sad I know...My mom is planning on getting me the Life Application Study Bible, and I've already purchased a cover for it...

On the cover, the circle says "Living by Faith, Sharing His Love, Trusting in Christ"

I can't wait to put my new study bible in there, and be more dedicated to our Lord!

The next challenge is over @ The High-Heeled Housewife.

Brittany says: This week's challenge is to celebrate your favorite part of your home! Spend extra time there this week, cleaning it, enjoying it and filling it with holiday cheer.

My favorite part of my home...hmmm lets see...thats REALLY hard...I {l.o.v.e.} to entertain in my home (even though it doesn't happen that often), so my kitchen and living room are my favorites...particular spots of favoritism are...coffee table, kitchen table, and armoir/entertainment center...take a look

our armoire/entertainment center...lets get closer

My precious moments ornament collection:

2008: "Blessings of Peace to You"

2007: "Born the King of Angels"

2009: "May Your Faith Light the Way"

snowflake ornament, snowpeople, catch of the day globe, fishersanta, and glass nativity

Kitchen table centerpiece: 2 tier sleigh with candle inside {frosty's gumdrops scent=amazing}

coffee table decor...basket for remotes, Yankee Candle candle warmer, snowman candy dish full of hershey kisses

I just admire CHRISTmas spirit, as you found out last week in my favorite things challenge. I love the traditions about Christmas, like the Christmas tree {and the amazing smell that comes with it, I refuse to get a fake tree}, decorating, learning more about the birth of Jesus every year and become closer to God, yummy scented candles, christmas music, and so much more!

Also, do me a quick, but significantly HUGE favor...Brittany over at the High-Heeled Houswife just underwent surgery this past week for fertility issues, click here for more info, and is having some trouble recovering as fast as she wishes. She's still in some pain and needs prayers as much as she can get. She is such a wonderful woman (even though I have never met her personally). Please pray for her when you get a chance!

God Bless,



Challenges Monday

It's time to do my challenges for this week! I look forward to Mondays so that I can focus on these challenges! If you haven't joined these blogs yet, don't worry, catch up on your own time and follow the next challenges! You won't regret it.

Courtney @ Women Living Well is hosting the Peace on Earth Challenge.

Here's this week's challenge: Take out your calendar and SCHEDULE a night where you will take a warm refreshing bubble bath. Bring your Bible. Read the story of the birth of Jesus in Matthew 1, 2 and Luke 1,2.

Last night I read this before going to bed. I was actually thinking strongly about taking a bath before she posted...but this just put the cherry on the top for me.

So I took a bubble bath...it was AWESOME! I'm still at my parents house, and they have an awesomely huge bathtub in my bathroom. I'll go take a picture of it!

*sigh*

I read the story of the birth of Jesus while taking my bath. Everytime I read the story, I get something new out of it. This time, I read it, to understand it more. It was so relaxing to give my time to God, and read the bible.

Thanks Courtney for a great challenge that I LOVED!

Brittany @ The High Heeled Housewife is hosting the My Favorite Things Challenge

This week, enjoy your favorite part of the holiday season! Plan for your family to join you in celebrating this wonderful part of the season.

My favorite part of Christmas and New Years is the spirit that everyone has on a day to day basis. (Besides the ba-humbugs out there). I love that people wear a different smile during the season of giving, and it makes me a happier person as well. All of my family is in such high spirits and I get to really enjoy the reason for the season. Brian and I were discussing our decoration theme for the front of our house. We plan on decorating this afternoon, and Brian simply asked for one thing in particular. He asked, well more like demanded, that one of our Christmas cut-outs says Merry Christmas on it.

We talked about how last year, I had planned on making a cross cut out to put in our front yard, but alot of people, like my aunt and grandmother, told me that it wouldn't be appropriate, so I then changed my mind to a cut out of the nativity scene. They didn't agree with that either. Their argument was that only Church's have a nativity scene (which is not true), and that people would judge my front yard, and Brian and I, as people who don't embrace other beliefs.

I was honestly taken aback by their opinions, and I never got the chance to do my cut outs due to Brian leaving for West Virginia last December, and I went and stayed with my parents like usual.

This year will be different. This week I plan on making appropriate cut outs with the CHRISTmas spirit! People judge no matter what I will have out in my front yard. I want to decorate my front yard to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the reason for this season. I'm not afraid to show my faith in Christ, so this afternoon we will decorate for Christ, and our faith.

God Bless,

 

NEW Challenges

Good Afternoon!

There are so many wonderful challenges going around in the blog world this month. I am participating in the 2 following challenges.

My Favorite Things @ The High-Heeled Housewife
and Peace On Earth @ Women Living Well

I am so excited to be a part of these challenges! Click on the icons above to visit the information about these challenges. Join us in these challenges, and link up!

My Favorite Things Challenge

This week, instead of dreading doing your household chores, focus on your favorite household chore.  Enjoy doing it!

We all know how much I love to take care of household chores. I dread them ALL... so this challenge in particular is a hard challenge. I am also at my parents house currently, so my household chores are minimal, since its not my house and my mom is stubborn about having someone else clean her house. So I stick to picking up after myself and helping her with the kitchen and dishes. When I get home tomorrow, however, things will be different...I will HAVE to clean. Brian will be home on Thursday, and my mom is coming to El Campo to visit my grandmother and aunts. I won't have an option to have a filthy home. It may be unorganized in my bedroom and craftroom, but the guest room will be spic and span and so will the remainder of the house.

I love to cook, but I have a hard time cleaning up my mess. Most people clean during cooking, and right after they eat. I just place everything in the sink, and let it pile up. Recently though, I've been taking notes on how people cook and clean at the same time. I am determined to keep up with my mess, and once Brian gets home and I start cooking again, I WILL clean my mess as I'm cooking...I have to get myself into a routine of taking care of our house.

I'm a recently new homemaker. I've seen my mom be the ultimate homemaker for the past 20 years. She is such a Titus 2:3 woman. I love her, and look up to her so much. She is the reason I want to be a homemaker, and the reason I want to be a stay at home mom, once Brian and I have kids. She taught me most of everything I know.

So tonight I will help my mom cook dinner, because that is my favorite household chore. I also want to spend some time with my puppies today outside, and play!

 

Now for the Challenge over @ Women Living Well

Today: Write at the top of your December calendar page - I Peter 5:7 "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." This will be a reminder every time you look at your calendar and feel anxious about all you have to get done - to pray. God cares for you. Release your worries to him and rest in him.

Also, go buy an extra large candle and light a candle everyday in your home in the month of December. I will be starting mine in the morning! But you can start yours at dinner time. I will be placing mine in the kitchen - the main hub of my home. Each time the candle catches your eye, say a prayer for peace in your home.

I usually don't ever have a paper calendar around, so I decided I would create a phone background picture that will have the bible verse above on it. I've also made it my screen saver and my desktop background. Everytime I unlock my phone I will see this verse. Since we are all in the CHRISTmas spirit, I made them with a cute spirited background...you can take them, save them and use it for backgrounds or for whatever you would like to use it for.

Again, since I'm not at home, I won't be lighting a candle of mine, however, I did start one of my mom's Scentsy candles.

This is hers

It smells soooo good...she threw away the package with the flavor label on it...so I'm not quite sure what scent she is burning...Every time I smell it...I smile and take a moment to pray!

I hope you all have a wonderful afternoon!!!

God Bless,



My Favorite Things: Week 2

Today is the start of week 2 of My Favorite Things Challenge on The High Heeled Housewife. I'm feeling a bit under the weather today. Sore throat, coughing spells, stuffy and raw nose, sinus drainage, etc....I have a cold, and I'm about to cook my favorite soup in the world Lipton's Noodle Soup. So before I enjoy that without any taste buds with some GingerAle, I decided that I needed some me time to blog!

This {Thanksgiving} week, focus on your favorite thing about your husband (or your family). Instead of dwelling on the things you don't like about your hubby, appreciate what he does well. If you are a blogger, write a post about your favorite thing about him. Show it to him; he'll love it!



My favorite thing about Brian, my future-husband, is that he is simply amazing in everything he does, and he wants to dedicate his life to me. I am so proud of the man he has become in the past 6+ years we've been together. 7 years ago, he was dating another girl in our high school, he called me annoying, and I loathed him. HAHA! I'm still annoying as ever, but he's embraced it so well.

He has grown into an incredible man. His work ethic is impeccable. He supports not only himself, but me as well. I get to be at home all day long. Most of the time I spend it watching DVR'd shows. I have a hard time cleaning, and keeping a clean home. Brian knows this, and I'm sure it drives him crazy. It drives me crazy that I can't motivate myself enough to clean the dishes, or keep the house tidy, or keep up with the laundry. I get overwhelmed and I shut down and I ignore the dishes, and the laundry. I'm sure sometimes he thinks I'm worthless, and so do I. However, Brian seems to overlook my flaws, and pushes and motivates me to do my best on a day-to-day basis. I often feel guilty, knowing that Brian is working his tail off to support our life, while I stay at home, enjoying my day with no schedule. The truth is, I feel guilty, but at the same time, I enjoy it. I don't want to have to work, and when we start having kids, I want to be a stay at home mom. I love being a homemaker, and even though I may not do the best job of keeping our home perfect, I enjoy being able to keep our house ours. If I was working, our house would probably be much more worse off. I probably wouldn't cook the meals that I do like homeade chili, roast, and I probably would not look forward to cooking Thanksgiving dinner (which I can't wait to start)!

His love for life and me is breathtaking, his smile is beautiful. Brian works hard in everything that he does, including loving me. He is so appreciative of life and of people. One thing that Brian doesn't have to work at very hard, is making me happy. He thinks that I am a bit complicated, which at times, I admit I am. However, just having him in my life, makes me happy. I try my best not to get frustrated that he's gone a good 24 out of the 30 days in each month. I never take a moment of our time for granted. I wish our time together could last more than it usually does. Even when he is gone, he makes me happy. When I see a picture of him, I can't help but smile.

Now, don't think that he doesn't frustrate or annoy me, because he does. But most of the time, its extremely hard to be too upset or frustrated at him, because he loves to make me laugh. My laugh is contagious, and I think that's why he loves it. Because he knows that when I laugh, I am truely happy and I am truely myself. He may not know it, but I love seeing his smile too!

My favorite thing about Brian is that he wants to marry me.

(look at that amazing smile, he's so handsome!)

He wants to spend the rest of his life with me. He has the passion to grow in our relationship, and he has the passion to have a family in the future. He loves me unconditionally, and I am so very thankful that he does. I am even more thankful that I love him as much as I do. I seriously could write a novel on how much I love this incredible man. Yes, I love him that much!

So, you may think that this is a sappy post, but all of it is true. The Lord has given Brian to me as an angel in my life. Brian is my angel, truely. God couldn't have made a more perfect match for love!

Thanks Brittany @ the High Heeled Housewife! I've never put my feelings into words like this until now. I can't wait to show Brian this post.

I hope everyone has a wonderful day! Thank your husband/fiance/boyfriend for all that he does!



For Now & God Bless, *Amber*

Favorite Things Challenge: Week 1

Brittany over @ The High Heeled Housewife, is hosting a blog challenge, and I'm joining. My Favorite Things. I'm a day late on this blog post, but I figure a little late isn't going to hurt, at least I'm doing it right?!

Brittany says "It's time for the week 1 challenge: This week, focus on your favorite part about being a wife or a woman. Celebrate it! Spend extra time this week focusing on that aspect of your life. If you are a blogger, write a post about your favorite part of being a wife/woman and link up."

My favorite thing about being a wife-to-be and a woman is that I get to serve: the Lord, and my family (my future hubby, and of course my pets).

The Lord is so precious to me. He has blessed me with life, and a wonderful life at that! Every day is a blessing and every thing that happens, He has a plan for. I am so glad that I get to serve Him every day, and I try my best to do just that. Sometimes I question if I am doing enough to serve our King, but then I often think of this verse once I question myself...

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

...then my questions subside and I move on; knowing that I am enough every day, by trusting God, and loving Him.

Brian is my past, present and future. I have served him from the very beginning and loved him with all of my heart. Recently we've just become a real family, just us 2 and our pets. I consider us a family because we all rely on each other, and mostly Brian. Even though we aren't married yet. I love seeing his face light up when he walks through the front door after being away from home for weeks at a time, or even just a day at the shop. His smile is so precious to me!♥
To know that I please him just by being here when he gets home, warms my heart and soul. It is so gratifying to know that he appreciates me for whatever I do, whether I've had a good day or bad day, and whether he's had a good or bad day, he always smiles, and I reply with an even bigger smile!
I love cooking for him, and just recently realized that this is our home, and this is our life, and I MUST take care of it, not just for me, but for him as well. I'm a very lazy person, and Brian understands that, and he knows when I have worked my butt off to please him by cleaning or cooking, or just homemaking in general. I love knowing that I am doing my best to make him most comfortable in our home. I look forward to the day where I am taking care of our children at our home, and even when the house may be a wreck, he will ALWAYS come home with a smile! ♥

That is my favorite thing about being a wife-to-be/woman. I get to be a homemaker, serve the Lord, and my family! I get to choose what I do during the day, have my own schedule, and no one but the Lord, and my future hubby to tell me what I need to do! I am so thankful to be where I am today! Thank you God, for all that you do!

Be sure to read Brittany's post ^^^^^^^ about her favorite thing about being a wife/woman. Join in, even if you don't blog, write it in a journal, or comment below!
For Now & God Bless, *Amber*

My Favorite Things Challenge & a New Recipe!

Hey all,
It's been a few days, I've been super busy doing wedding stuff. The ball has really been rolling since Saturday! I've gotten my dress paid for, our caterer deposit down and contract signed, and I've also gone cake tasting! Next on the list is finding a florist and finalizing a baker!

But in the mean time I have few things to discuss tonight.

First off a new CHALLENGE! Brittany @ The High-Heeled Housewife is doing a challenge called My Favorite Things. On Mondays I will be sharing "my favorite things" about my life. Here is the schedule:

November 15: My favorite part of being a wife (or woman)-in my case a future wife & woman
November 22: My favorite thing about my husband (or family)- my future husband
November 29: My favorite household chore
December 6: My favorite part of the holiday season
December 13: My favorite part of my home
December 20: My favorite encouragement from the Bible


For more, check out Brittany's blog. She's too cute! I actually graduated from High School with her hubby! She's spunky and has recipes, stories of faith and determination, stories of her housemaking & stories of her family! You will LOVE her as much as I do! Enjoy!

Also, a recipe that is exceptional in my family's eyes...absolutely delish. The best part, SUPER easy!

Sopapilla Cheesecake
I added my own twist, but you can find this recipe on the net everywhere!
Ingredients

• 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 (8 ounce) cans crescent roll dough
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• honey

Directions
1. Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Beat the cream cheese with 1 1/2 cups of sugar, and the vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Unroll the cans of crescent roll dough, and use a rolling pin to shape the each piece into 9x13 inch rectangles. Press one piece into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture into the baking dish, then cover with the remaining piece of crescent dough.
3. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Stir the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar together with the cinnamon in a small bowl, and sprinkle over the cheesecake and drizzle honey over the top.
4. Bake in the preheated oven until the crescent dough has puffed and turned golden brown, about 45 minutes. Cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Here is a pic of the finished product :)

*I linked up here*

For Now & God Bless, *Amber*

Weekend Wonders & A Haven

Well it's midday Tuesday, and it's that time for me to post again!

We had a WONDERFUL past weekend! Brian came home on Friday. He rode home Friday morning with the Owner of Fesco, on his private jet. An amazing experience for Brian! West Virginia treated him well, but of course, not as well as Texas does. It was awesome to see Brian after 37 days of him being gone. When I first saw him, when I picked him up, I couldn't stop smiling. He was so excited, he was jumping up and down when he saw me. It was so nice to have him back home. We then grabbed some lunch amidst all of the Prairie Days Chaos, and then headed to my aunt's to finish up all of my Priarie Days projects.

I made 6 wooden crosses, 3 double layer, and 3 triple layer. I also made 10 pumpkin cutouts as well as the 17 tutus I had previously made. My parents and brother showed up Friday night to help finish the projects. We went to the park to set up our booth too! We didn't stay up too late finishing everything...but we were exhausted, and we knew we had to get up early the next morning.

Saturday morning we ALL woke up and headed to my aunt's. Brian had to go into work until noon, which was a bit sad, but he was lucky he got the day before off. We quickly packed our trucks up and headed to set up. Before we knew it, we were open for business and still setting things up.

The day went by really fast...we sold a good 40% of our items. We knew we wouldn't sell everything, but we hoped! Saturday was an awesome experience. I look forward to our next selling opportunity. The hard work put in was worth the experience.

Yesterday was the first day of the Making your Home a Haven Challenge. I didn't get to start yesterday, however, I went over to my cousin's house and his wife had a candle burning. I stopped, said a prayer and thought about the challenge. Today I'm cleaning my house and I will light my candles before I have my guests come over for dinner! In fact, I should be cleaning instead of writing this blog, thank goodness, last week, I made time to keep up with the house. Even though its a mess, it's still not a destruction path! So, on to cleaning, and cooking!

Join me, and the women of Women Living Well for the Making Your Home A Haven Challenge. Have a wonderful week!

For Now & God Bless, *Amber*