Simply Sandy

I'm Not Sure I Ever Was 31

2011-09-08T13:55:00.000-05:00

It's a good life. It's the moments you deliberately create and the ones that are designed just for you that are out of your control that sweeten life. How about the ones that shatter your world and make time stop? Those can be good too. {Funny, I wished my parents a happy anniversary yesterday and thanked them for staying together through the good and bad. Why did I thank them for the good? Well I really have nothing profound to stay to that except I chuckled for typing it. ;) }

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. James 3:13

I saw this yesterday:

This made me think about how the tragedies in our lives can be turned into wisdom and that what we do for others can spawn out of those circumstances. It's a little "circle of life" thought process.

Back to "the moments you deliberately create." Today the kids and I hopped in the runner and went to deliver Meals on Wheels. It's something I used to do with my grandmother when I was a child; I have good memories of those times. I wanted the kids to experience that type of serving as well. So off we went to love on the older community. I forewarned them of all the things that might happen to cause young kids to think they're funny or weird or too old. "They might smell differently b/c of the products they use. They might want to hug and kiss you. They might look at you and not notice you. They might not feel well and not act excited to see you." And the ultimate, "There is always a chance that we could walk in and find them hurt and or passed away." Really. And they were cool with all the above scenarios so I knew it'd be a good day.

They were both very eager to take meals in. And the folks/clients/friends/neighbors/whatever is PC nowadays were thrilled to see them. One lady, Fannie, who is quite old said to me, "Well you don't look old enough to have three kids" to which I replied, "Well, I'm 31" and smiled. Then she said, "I'm not sure I ever was 31." That made Kyra laugh.

They were all so pleased to see the kids. And sure enough, we had one who couldn't wait to lay her meal aside and pull Kyra and Guy in for hugs and kisses. And the kids happily accepted her sweet gestures and smiled in the most genuine ways.

Today, was a deliberate day.

There's Always So Much ..

2011-08-29T21:42:00.000-05:00

.. on my mind but sometimes I come to the computer and I go blank. Like if I were to start typing so much would come out that I wouldn't make since nor would I get it all out.

So since it's been a while, I think I'll simply rely on photos.

Good night.

Sunday-Our Favorite

2011-08-15T12:49:00.000-05:00

We fully enjoy Sundays. Church and then a peaceful and relaxing day afterward. Yesterday was such a lovely Sunday too. The temps were in the 80s and the wind was a very soft breeze. It was like a little piece of Heaven in our backyard. Too bad the baby went down before we went out or she would have enjoyed her nap on the family blanket.

Phill took the big kids to Compton Gardens and they went for their first bike ride in I don't know how long. So Edith and I decided to just shoot some pics. And this became my favorite. In color and black & white.

Well, most of Sunday was peaceful and restful. And then I got a wild hair to do some rearranging. B/C that doesn't cost anything (at least not right away). If you've been to my house then you probably remember one of our walls covered in photos. We (mostly I) loved it for about four years. And now it's just old. Over the last 6 months we've been taking pictures away, using frames for other pics, and gifts, replacing one picture with one of Edie. Anyway, we came up with a new collage and are going to put it in our kitchen/dining room area. Here's the possible layout:

And the wall that was covered?

The dresser holds the kids' curriculum and other school items. I love it!! I would like to refinish the wood though...maybe a yellow like this.

Have a great Monday!

Spaghetti Tacos, Grapes and a Tree

2011-08-13T23:11:00.000-05:00

Yes, that's what you're seeing. Spaghetti inside a taco shell. And I can't tell you how long Guy has been asking me to make these, thanks to iCarly. Thought it would be a flop, but alas the kids loved them.

Thursday night we went to the local Grape Festival and had a wonderful time. Didn't realize it was a fair though. Ha. Might have prepared a bit more for that.

And in today's news...The kids were going to go with Phill to Joplin to help clean up but it turns out you had to be 13 to go. They were bummed out. But, we had a neighbor who lost a tree last week from the storms and thought it might be fun to go help them. The thing with helping is that sometimes you're pouring yourself into someone with a need like the folks in Joplin, Japan, Haiti on the streets, etc...and sometimes you're doing it for yourself. Our neighbors didn't need our help. They had already done the heavy work. Turns out, when I called to see if the kids could help, they were needing to leave and had a few things left to work on with the tree which made a perfect opportunity for my kids to get out there and give of their time. We loaded up our water bottles and trekked over to help. It's a learning experience for them. Being helpful, generous and giving tend to be learned through experience. We have to make sure they get those opportunities.

Hello, My Name is Mrs. Krout {But You Can Call Me Mommy}

2011-08-09T16:56:00.000-05:00

Woke up this morning and the kids were ready to start school. And since it's not been announced yet, I suppose now is as good a time as any. The kids are going to be home schooled this fall. I am going to homeschool them. They are going to be schooled .. at home.

It's a decision that took two years to make. And it's one we're solid on, but that doesn't take away the fact that it hasn't yet been done by us and therefore I'm certain it'll be perfect and I'll make no mistakes and they're going to be brilliant.

Ha.

I am a little nervous .. of the unknown, of my expectations, of others' judgements [even though I should not care what others think. When I grow up, maybe I won't]. But at the same time there is a lot of excitement too.

And so when they asked if we could start school this morning I said yes! We didn't just jump in and start a full day. I suggested we do one subject just to get a feel for how it's going to go. And it was great. They both wanted to try math and for an hour I went to each kid's room and helped/guided them. It was wonderful. I felt elated and they were confident and thrilled to be students.

The schoolmarm is ready. Bring on the year.

-

Here in our land of Arkansas we enjoyed a tax-free weekend on certain items. Clothing fell into this category and since it's back to school time we decided to get Edith a new diaper. Smirk.

Here's the little one.

Thank you, Arkansas, for losing some tax money so that we can have a little style.
Love you.

Quilt Time

2011-08-08T19:45:00.000-05:00

Today we enjoyed the great outdoors. We love finding the cooler part of the yard that's shaded by our one tree in the back while burrowing down on a blanket. This is essential in keeping us from the crunchy, hard blades that the 100+ temps have created.

This next picture is the visual picture of adoration.

After the 190 picture photo shoot the rest of our quilt time was enjoyed with a good book. Looking forward to the coming days when the temperature is on the cusp of fall.

Do you have quilt/blanket time outside?

The Not-So-Overwhelming Cloth Diaper Rundown

2011-08-07T07:21:00.001-05:00

Preface {because who doesn't love a good preface}: I am NO expert on cloth diapers and I completely realize how very new I am at this. Just thought I would put down my thoughts now that we've been doing this for a good bit. I also realize this is dealing with poo that comes from a breastfed only newborn {thus, not as nasty.}

There is an overwhelming amount of information on CDing and I'm barely scratching the surface.

There are four types of diapers:

1. prefolds [think burp cloths]
2. pocket
3. all in one [AIO]
4. fitted

Within those four categories .. there are ENDless different types. Not even going there.

I have used all four and the top two favorites are prefolds and pockets (Phill's fave). My least favorites are AIOs.

The prefolds require a cover that is separate. What I do is use these when Phill isn't home so that I don't waste the pocket diapers. The glory with prefolds is that you can re-use the cover as long as it doesn't get soiled. I try to use these when I "know" that she'll just pee. The covers I use are called Thirsties and are about $12 each and go from 6lbs to 18lbs [that's at least a year for mine]. My prefolds were a gift so I don't really know how much they cost. :p

The pocket diapers have an insert inside the diaper. There is a pocket at the very back which allows you to insert the inserts (heh) into the diapers after they're laundered. There are thinner inserts and thicker ones that I use for overnighters. bumGenius seem to know what they're doing because these diapers do a great job of keeping Edith from sitting in the pee...kind of like it wicks it away pretty good. So far I haven't had a leak with either pee or poo. 5 stars from me. {We've also used FuzziBunz and I do like it, but I have had a pee leak from this one} These range from $14 to $25 and pretty much last the whole diapering cycle [up to 35lbs]

The all in ones have failed me over and over. I've had leaks from these nearly every time I use them. Real bummer too b/c they're quite cute. ;) {They are also the most expensive diaper and take the longest to dry}

The fitted diapers aren't too different from the prefolds in that they need a cover. They simply snap onto the baby very easily and then you just add the cover on top. Simple. Bulky. Used only for overnights b/c of their bulkiness. The brand I use is called Sandy's. How cute.

Negatives

You have to use a special detergent so that there isn't a build-up on the cloth, thus losing their absorbency.
Not everyone wants to change a CD baby. I usually take disposables with me when we're out and about like to church or if we're staying overnight with family.
You do have to wash them ;) if you're squeamish and grossed out, tough luck.
There is a big cost up front to get started unless you have an awesome sister-in-law like mine and get a cloth diaper shower with a nice hookup! Thanks again all my hostesses and friends!!
You have to deal with stains.

..however

Positives

You save a ton of money! {The reason we're CDing} Even more if you have more babies and can re-use. This is a big positive.
You're doing the very popular re-using thing. ;) You're being environmentally conscious.
You never run out and have to rush to the store (unless you need to do laundry :P)
Most people are intrigued with the idea that CDing has come so far they actually want to see how it works and sometimes they offer to use your CDs over the disposables.
The stains come out when you dry them on the line. For realsies the sun is like bleach.
We've saved this summer not running the dryer by hanging them on the line. Not sure how this works in the winter...
Have you seen them? They are REAL cute.
You can just put a shirt on them or no shirt at all in the summer. They work as "bottoms" and since they're so cute you might want to do that.

Those are my thoughts. I might actually come back and revamp this post as I find more info/change my mind, etc...

And, I'll be sure to add more pictures of Edie modeling. :)

Two Months

2011-08-04T15:14:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe that we've had her here for this long {or short, depending on how you look at it}. She's been such a joy to each of us in ways we didn't know could happen. Kyra says she doesn't just love her, she adores her. Guy can't get over how cute she is and has to hold her, even if she's crying. He likes having the opportunity to at least try to calm her. And Phill and I just see her differently than we saw Kyra and Guy. Back then, we were still babies ourselves and now we're much more mature and appreciative. Not that we didn't adore and love and cherish and coo and hold and .. with them, it's just different now.

She is collectively our baby. We all agree.

June 4th

July 4th

August 4th

As if that weren't enough, you've blessed my family so that it will continue in your presence always. Because you have blessed it, God, it's really blessed-blessed for good! 1 Chronicles 17:27 [The Message]

Oh and btw, I really like cloth diapers.

Her Smiles Make Me Melt

2011-08-03T22:41:00.000-05:00

She's quickly becoming one of the most smiley babies. Right now, she smiles about 64 times per day and when I'm real quick, I capture them with my camera.

Today I was Speedy Gonzalez.

Or she was happy.

This last picture reminds me of the Jack Johnson song Upside Down.

Good night.

Cousin Lovin'

2011-07-27T19:03:00.001-05:00

Today we got a visit from our out-of-town cousin, Chloe. The girls are only four days apart. They are a part of a great family. (Lol, sorry I just had to show the difference between the two words)

And in exciting news...Guy lost his third tooth. The first of the upper layer of teeth to go. I'm looking forward to the other coming out too, for all those cute tongue-in-void pictures. :)

Good day.

I Don't Know Why It's So Hard..

2011-07-24T15:29:00.000-05:00

..to keep a blog going! I really have a desire to do it. And I love going back and seeing old posts, but it always seems to be too hard to stickwithit.

Refreshment

2011-02-01T15:04:00.009-06:00

I love snow days. As long as we have heat, food and power then I'm totally stoked!

Today, the man got to stay home. Le sigh. If only he could work here every day. At lunch I really "did-up" his sandwich and told him it was so

he'd stay here during the day. Not sure my evil plot is going to work though.

Right now, he's suited up with the kids, playing in the snow. There's nothing cuter than seeing a very devoted father throwing his kids around in the frigid winter air, or sneaking up behind them and barreling them to the ground for a frosty face-plant. Ha. It's what all this snow-business is all about, right?

And here are pics and a post from last year.

I love my family.

Whose Hands

2010-10-06T11:43:00.003-05:00

I admit I'm one to change my thoughts/opinions about life. Happens a lot. Some not so impressive like what my favorite color of the season might but, but others, the ones that are more life-changing happen as well.

Today I was listening over a playlist that I'm working on for our Women's Night next week. The theme is recurring and refreshing and easy to just hum along to and enjoy but I really started to listen to the lyrics and thought how happy I am that God has changed me.

Before, how I looked to others mattered to me a lot more than it should. But He has guided me down a path that has been almost a eureka! moment for me. First it started with me caring only what my husband thinks, then it became what He thinks. He said that I am beautifully and wonderfully made.

Shouldn't that be all that matters?

In our culture it's not. Sometimes it seems to not even matter. But really, it has to. I have two impressionable young kids who are growing up in this culture. Who are looking at others as role models and who are trying to identify with the standard. So it seems Phill and I have our work cut out for us.

"God's standard for beauty is the only standard that matters." This came from a book I read over the summer called 5 Conversations You Must Have with Your Daughter. And boy was it challenging!

My most favorite thing about the book was that it goes against the grain of "standard" and encourages you to talk to your kids about true beauty, about what's pleasing to the Lord in the way you dress the attitude you carry and how you speak, even how you date! [BTW this is a great book for moms of boys too. It can help you talk to them about what to look for in girls.]

Overall what I got out of it and from the Bible is that you're perfect the way you are. No amount of makeup or great clothes is going to change His view of you. That doesn't mean you should be a lazy slouch and never look nice. It simply means He loves you for YOU .. and I do too. ;)

These lyrics are simple yet beautiful:

At the end of it all

I wanna be in Your arms

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7

Weekend Bliss

2010-10-03T20:59:00.004-05:00

{It's going to just be a picture-post}

Good night.

Nostalgic Autumn

2010-10-02T17:39:00.002-05:00

What is it about Autumn that just seems so romantic?

Maybe it's the cooler air and the desire to heat

up the kitchen, which is just what I did this morning. We enjoyed French Breakfast Puffs from The Pioneer Woman Cooks, cookbook. If you've not yet purchased said book .. well I highly suggest you doing so. The food is scrumptious.

Viola!

Or maybe it's having cooperative kids, catching them in their own free-time play and making sure you catch their moments. {Even if you have to remind them to keep doing whatever cute thing it was that they were doing}

It could even be because soccer is about one of the funnest games to watch and doing so in the crisp cool of the morning is simply .. relaxing. {Assuming you're not a "soccer mom/dad" yelling from the sidelines .. eye roll} *

We had one kid play in one city and the other in the neighboring, so we only went to one today, thus only one picture of Kyra:

*We may struggle with keeping our mouths quiet while the kids play.

What about the freedom to take the kids bowling b/c you didn't make any plans for the weekend?! That's always fun.

Or maybe it's simply b/c there are actual moments that cause your heart to take a leap. Like when you realize that you're in love, or you see your baby for the first time or when you happen upon your kids, reading to each other just b/c they wanted to .. with no prompting.

I guess none of those reasons lead to a romantical Autumn, but they sure seem to make life better. :)

What's the Purpose?

2010-07-16T08:24:00.003-05:00

Ever find yourself asking that question?

I'm sure that question has been asked by everyone, from people who fail a test to those who suffered through the Holocaust. But is it ever as tragic or raw when it doesn't happen to you? When you heard about 9-11 you most likely were shocked, fearful, angered and saddened, but was it personal? Maybe it was. Maybe it caused you to change your life.

I'd like to share my story.

4 years ago, my sisters and I breathed with my dad for the last time here on earth. His death was caused by events that led to a criminal investigation as well as a civil law suit. The tragic events surrounding his death began to shape, forever, the rest of our lives.

It started a trickle down effect. Relationships were lost, marriages were bruised, trust was no where to be found and my God was little more than a being sitting on a throne too busy to help with our situation.

Phill and I moved from our home one year after my dad's passing to start a new, fresh life. A life where no one knew what happened, where no one would judge us, where we could just get away. And while those are never good reasons to leave, it was the most pivotal decision we ever made.

We moved during the summer which afforded a lot of free time, since the kids were out of school and our number of friends at that time could be counted on one hand. I'd never been a reader, but it seemed like an opportunity to help pass the time, and it was something dad loved, so I decided to give it a try. Turns out, I like to read.

As time passed, we began to get settled with an amazing church and some friends, but friends who didn't really know me. As I ventured out, I found others who liked to read as well and book suggestions were being thrown back and forth. One of the first books I read was by Francine Rivers called A Voice in the Wind. [Three out of the four comments on Amazon say "life-changing" in their reviews.] It touched a place in my heart that really opened up the void where I had kicked God out. I was never angry at God, I just didn't have an intimate relationship b/c I didn't know, KNOW that he truly cared.

The book challenged me. My faith, my beliefs, my God. What were they? What did I stand for? At the time, my self. And so I decided to go deeper.

Each book I picked up after that, God intricately wove together to piece the frameworks of my beliefs. Love was changed, faith was growing and Jesus was showing me what Grace looked like, through these books and according to His word.

He introduced me to fresh ideas, not according to this world or our culture's or how I felt, but to His standards. Forgiveness had new meaning. Life had a purpose. Hope has never been lost. And Love? Well, isn't that what it's all about? Isn't that who Jesus is? Didn't He become a servant, showing us all how to treat others, how to trust? How to live? Even when pain is griping your every fiber and demanding you not cut its hold isn't He holding our hand and asking for us to have Faith that He meant this: "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." Gen 50:20

He saved my life, obviously from Hell, but there is so much more than that that He died for. He gave my life purpose. He said He came to set the captives free. Freedom. In all areas of our life. He said, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me." John 10:27 And that's what He wants, us to follow Him. Is it easy? It's probably the hardest thing you can do, b/c you cannot do it without or apart from Him. It requires trust, hope, determination and a willingness to let go of "me" and what I want.

So what's the purpose?

I wouldn't be where I am, able to forgive, to love and to share without Him. And without this situation in my life, I wouldn't be glorifying God, I would still be glorifying me. Was this the purpose for my dad's death? Was it for me? I know it was. But was it only for me? Never, b/c it isn't about me. It's all about Him. It's about finding Him in the fabric of your lives. It's seeing His hand and trusting in His sovereignty. It is knowing that He knows. Your hurts, your pains, your failures, your loss and your way. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

So in the words of Ghandi, "Be the change you want to see in the world." How? Start with the renewal of your mind. "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

It doesn't take an army to change. It takes one person. Use His thoughts, His heart, His love in your decisions. Teach these things to your family, friends and children and you'll see it. You'll see it in how you react, and those that you love react and you'll know that the world is better b/c of it.

Yesterday was 4 years. To the day. And yesterday we came to a settlement and will not be going to court. A giant of a burden has been lifted. Peace has begun to settle in and take its rightful place. And yesterday I decided to do a random act of kindness, in honor of my dad and in the name of Jesus.

The kids and I went to Chick-fil-A and paid for the people behind us. Before we got there I prayed that God would let someone be behind us that would benefit from hearing that Jesus loved them. It felt good. Funny thing was, their order was only a gallon of lemonade .. $9.80. After telling Phill about it and getting ready to leave for the day, Phill comes running inside the house b/c he found a ten-dollar bill in the yard. Wait, what? Really God? THAT quick of a return? I get it. I do. You love us and we're doing what you asked.

Later that night, my friend texted me and asked me to check my email. Here is the email:

Hello to all!

First off, I was the reci]pient of a very nice email today that I can’t take credit for, but thought that I would share with all of you. It is a terrific act of generosity and I think the person responsible should know that it was greatly appreciated.

As follows via the Feedback button on NWArestaurants.com:

Name: Maria

Comments:

I just want to THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for providing for our church Youth group meeting this afternoon. Though you did not know it. Allow me to explain. I was sitting in the car at the Chick-Fill-A in Rogers, Arkansas, waiting to pay and pick up the gallon of fresh-squeezed lemonade for our Youth group later this evening. As I reached the window, I was greeted by a very friendly lady who told me. "Message from the car in front of you.....Jesus loves you. Your lemonade has been paid for you." I was in awe.....I saw God's hand working through a complete stranger. Between my children and can not decide wheather the SUV was white, black or gray....but we remember the website on the rear window clearly... Our youth group just began to meet every Thursdays at 6PM at our church, the Rogers SDA Church. On behalf of our youth....THANK YOU for tonight's drink. May God bless richly bless you.

Sincerely,

Maria

Youth Director Assistant.

So I want to thank whoever was responsible for this random act of kindness. How much better would the world be if we had more of these stories to tell? I will also contact Maria on behalf of NWArestaurants and see if we can add to that gesture. If anyone else has a story to share we would love to hear it as well as other opportunities that our website can participate in making this a better community.

I share that b/c there were so many lives who were impacted by it. Maybe not life-changing, but certainly challenging to do more. Do you see how it affected the business? He wants more people to share stories and is looking for opportunities to make this a better community. I think that's where it starts.

The purpose? Him.

I love you, Dad
I love you, God

Summer Vacation

2010-06-15T16:31:00.004-05:00

My mom wanted to go to Branson for a small family get-together last weekend and we decided to go, but to head out one day earlier so that we could relax a bit more and enjoy Silver Dollar City. So Phill went to work trying to find us a good deal on tickets. As it would happen, we had signed up at the Promenade to win a car and the folks for Summer Winds called him the week we were about to head out. They made an offer of $260 to cover the cost of a hotel for 3 days and 2 nights, 2 days' worth of SDC tix for the family, a huge book of coupons for a $30 meal ticket for a restaurant of our choice and another $250 vacation within the year. Not bad. Just had to sit through a tour and not buy their "fractional ownership" vacation home.
Here is one of the rides that Kyra and I liked the best. It's the Giant Barn Swing. Phill and Guy were not fans, to say the least.
Both of the kids really liked the pulley system ride. It was slow and boring, we thought, but hey, it's all about having fun, and that they did.

We went into the Marvel Cave and had a blast. It was a steady 58 degrees in there and moist and crunched in places, but it was really neat to see how beautiful and creative God is in His designs. Really, something you outta go see if you get a chance. It was cool b/c we were in rear since they needed someone to be responsible of closing the doors and ensuring all were ahead and no one was left behind. Really proud that Phill volunteered for that job. No one else was willing so it was neat to see the respect...weird, I know, that the others gave him b/c he had an important job to do. LOL. But really, there was a sense of honor. And then, when it was all over, we were the first ones out of the train that leads you from the cave to the surface.

This is Wildfire. So much fun!! And really cool to see Kyra riding this and not freaking out! Guy was too short this time .. should have spiked his hair! I love that the kids like rides! There were a lot of kids much older than ours, screaming from fear .. from the ride above where you have to pull yourselves up to the top and then drop. No joke.

Here's some of the crew. It was a lot of fun to get to hang out with my side of the family, enjoying a great family city and some of its cool attractions. Can't wait to go back!

Afraid to Fail?

2010-05-13T12:46:00.003-05:00

I've been reading The Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning. It's one of those books I usually read a chapter at a time b/c there is just so much info to soak in. I'd love to just read and read but then I feel that I'm robbing myself of the quality of the book.

Anyway, I was talking with someone special yesterday and they mentioned to me that they feel as if they had failed. Of course we all fail, but that doesn't take away the raw emotion that drapes on you.

While I was reading this book, just now, I ran across this. So .. this is for you. I love you.

Many of us are haunted by our failure to have done with our lives what we longed to accomplish. The disparity between our ideal self and our real self, the grim specter of past infidelities, the awareness that I am not living what I believe, the relentless pressure of conformity, and the nostalgia for lost innocence reinforces a nagging sense of existential guilt: I have failed. This is the cross we never expected and the one we find hardest to bear.

One morning at prayer, I heard this word: Little brother, I witnessed a Peter who claimed that he did not know Me, a James who wanted power in return for service to the kingdom, a Philip who failed to see the Father in Me, and scores of disciples who were convinced I was finished on Calvary. The New Testament has many examples of men and women who started out well and then faltered along the way. Yet on Easter night I appeared to Peter. James is not remembered for his ambition but for the sacrifice of his life for Me. Philip did see the Father in Me when I pointed the way, and the disciples who despaired had enough courage to recognize Me when we broke bread at the end of the road to Emmaus. My point, is this: I expect more failure from you than you expect from yourself.

The ragamuffin who sees his life as a voyage of discovery and runs the risk of failure has a better feel for faithfulness than the timid man who hides behind the law and never finds out who he is at all. Winston Churchill said it well: "Success is never final; failure is never fatal. It is courage that counts."

Yes, the word was made flesh. I chose to enter your broken world and limp through life with you.

On the last day, when we arrive at the Great Cabin in the Sky, many of us will be bloodied, battered, bruised and limping. But by God and by Christ, there will be a light in the window and a "Welcome Home" sign on the door.

Keeping the Kids Off the Streets

2010-04-20T09:00:00.003-05:00

I do what I can. ;)

So, we like to teach our kids to work. We haven't been super-consistent with it nor have we given them tons of opportunities to earn money. Dave says this: "Work; get paid. Don't work; don't get paid." and we like it.

Yesterday gave the best opportunity for a little work [or a lot. it took a little over an hour with a little help from their friends.] Those helicopters decided to land right in our newly mulched flower beds, so we paid them to pick them all out.

We paid them $1.00 each. I need to go find the other neighbor friend and give her earnings.

It was a lot of fun to sit and watch and direct.

UPDATE: Before & After

2010-04-18T19:57:00.006-05:00

It has been three years this May that we'll have called this house our home. It was time to treat it more like home. Therefore, we decided to give it a bit of a face-lift.

Have a Happy Friday!

2010-02-26T14:14:00.004-06:00

Just a Lazy Friday ..

2010-02-19T20:26:00.002-06:00

enjoying the wii.

A Significant Life is Not Necessarily "Significant"

2010-02-05T15:21:00.008-06:00

I was reading my Bible this morning in Galatians 5 [in the message .. it's my preference for just sitting down and reading.] and I came across this: And please don't toss this off as insignificant. It only takes a minute amount of yeast, you know, to permeate an entire loaf of bread.

It made me think about the cliche "It's the little things." Yeast is a very little thing yet it is extremely powerful .. however, only when it is put into something. While it's in its packet, up above my stove, just sleeping, it's doing nothing. But add it to a flour mixture and that small ingredient makes most people drool and moan for warm bread!

This "bump" on the side of this hill is small, yet its placement allowed Guy to "soar" or get airborne for a minute. I guarantee that it made his trip down that much better, that much more likely that he'd go down again.

But it's just a bump. Left alone on the side of the hill it'll serve no purpose. It's only when it's a part of something else [snow day sledding party] that it is used to its full potential.

For no matter how significant you are, it is only because of what you are a part of. 1 Cor 12

So while you may not think you're significant according to this world's standards, I challenge you to be the yeast in something that is significant. Don't lay fallow, up above the stove. Find what it is that will cause you to affect someone else for God. Maybe someone needs you to be the bump that will make them soar toward Him.

***

Phill and the kids made this super-awesome fort this last weekend. It was a serious favorite for our neighborhood. It was made complete with two chairs a tunnel and a slide! Kyra is nudged inside and Guy and I were on the slide.

LOL .. the kids' faces here are so funny. Phill gave them an extra push.

And in Happy Birthday news, Kyra is going to be nine this Sunday! Time sure does seem to fly by.

Wal-Mart 2/3/10

2010-02-03T08:14:00.002-06:00

$1.16

Kotex liners $1.00
Kotex liners $1.00
Kotex liners $1.00
Kotex liners $1.00
Tuna Snacks $1.88
Pictureka! card game $5.24

Total = $12.04

I used:

$2/2 Kotex
$2/2 Kotex
1 free Tuna Snacks February All You magazine
$5/1 Pictureka! game

Total = $0.24 + $0.92 [tax] = @$1.16

Walgreens 1/31/10

2010-01-31T13:12:00.008-06:00

Woke up this morning at 3:30a to see if the newspaper had been thrown yet, and it hadn't so I set my alarm for 5:30a and it was there. Some time between the two, the paper gets delivered. Sounds a little crazy to get up so early and go shopping, but having the WHOLE store to yourself is pretty great!

Here's what I got:
I bought:

Advil Liqui-Gels 16 ct $4.49 [regular price $7.99]
Advil 50 ct tablets $4.49 [regular price $7.99]
Blink Tears $7.99 [regular price $9.99 and I found one with two .. B1G1]
Red Baron Pizza $2.50
Red Baron Pizza $2.50
Toblerone $1.00 [regular price $2.49]
Joint Juice $10.00 [regular price $12.99 .. I think]
Joint Juice $0 [B1G1 free]

=32.97 + tax

I used:

$4RR from last week
$2/1 Advil coupon
$2/1 Advil coupon 40 ct RP 01.31.10
$1.50 Blink Tears printable coupon .. no longer able to print.
B1G1 FREE Joint Juice coupon
$1/2 Red Baron Pizza SS 01.31.10

I received:

$5 RR Advil
$8 RR Blink Tears
$10 RR Joint Juice

Total = $25.60

***

Then I bought:

Vicks Nyquil $5 [regular price $7.59]
Vicks Dayquil $5 [regular price $7.59]
Vicks Dayquil $5 [regular price $7.59]
Vitamin Schtick $1.99
Gilette Fusion Razor $8.99

=$25.98 + tax

I used:

$10 RR Joint Juice
$8 RR Blink Tears
$5 RR Advil
$2 RR from last week

I received:

$5 RR wyb $15 Vicks
$4 RR Gilette Razor
$2 RR Vitamin Schtick

Total = $3.32

***

Then I bought:

Angel Soft 9 roll $4

I used:

$4 RR Gilette Razor

Total = $0.36

I have $7 RR to use next week. Can't wait to see what deal are coming. Actually, this chick already has the ad!

Pure White Bliss

2010-01-29T16:39:00.007-06:00

Today has been Snow Day. Phill got off work early and the kids have been out in the snow for about 75% of the day [that counts running to Wal-Mart to get some rain boots for Guy]. The fire is roaring, hot chocolate has been made, Wii games have been played and drive-ways have been shoveled and work at Gap tonight has been canceled.

It's all just been lots of fun, relaxing and getting small things done [a load of laundry here, an organized medicine box there]. Snow Day.

While I jumped outside for the opportunity to take pics, I noticed a few things:

Snow is white! Pure white. Even a white house can't truly compare to fresh snow. At best it looks ecru next to the frozen flakes.

And anything it covers becomes softer and more beautiful, no matter how scary it could potentially be [think of a rake with its prongs pointed toward the sky].

Not only that, but it radiates light, even in the dark.

The snow in its pure, white bliss reminds me of Jesus and how truly perfect He is. Nothing compares to Him. Nothing is as "white" as He.

The Bible actually says, 18 Come now, and let us reason together, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be like wool. Isa 1:18 AMP

Which brings me to my second point. While a rake [sin] can be ugly, rusty, dangerous or even potentially useless, if Christ takes over it can be covered with a blanket of snow and look beautiful.

The last picture is of Guy and his reckless fall to the earth below. He didn't care [much to my chagrin] what might be below him. He just loves the snow so much that rational thoughts escaped him.

I wonder if that's how we ought to look at people? As if they're covered with snow, not paying attention to their ugly or rusty surfaces below. Not holding back too much for fear of what lies underneath. I think that's how He looks at us, covered by Jesus and beautiful through His eyes.

I've been challenged to see through His eyes today!

Guy Loses His FIRST Tooth {and some good deals}

2010-01-26T14:19:00.004-06:00

My experiences as a mother are generally set with Kyra, since she's older. She goes "through" things before Guy does so by the time he's ready to learn about the "birds & the bees" we already have something to base our potential screw-ups off of.

So Kyra lost her first tooth about 4.6 seconds after she turned six. Super-cute little snaggle-toothed smile. One of those times when you call all the family and take pics to ensure that everyone knows your little girl is growing up [but not too quickly, of course].

When Guy turned six, we expected that his tooth would just turn up loose any second. When he turned seven, we had one of those huh moments. I even thought about calling the dentist to make sure he was normal, but I didn't. I knew that the first would come out on its own timing, not mine nor Kyra's.

Finally.

A year and a half older than Kyra was, Guy lost [rather I pulled] his tooth out.

So what is my lesson learned? Besides the fact that Kyra and Guy are in fact different, that sometimes expectations aren't healthy. Sometimes they cause us to worry or be concerned for something that doesn't matter at all. A lot of times they set people up for failure.

But mostly, I learned that my Guy is going to have the cutest smile this summer.

{and some good deals}

After watching this video, it inspired me to start clipping coupons. Not only that, but Kelly has been doing it for a while now and I finally decided to try the whole "Walgreens" thing. So with online coupons, the Sunday paper, Register Rewards and in store coupons, I've done pretty good!

For the pictured items, I saved $39.34. My total out of pocket was $12.25. The Brawny 8-roll was $9.99 alone! [regular price] If you can't see it all that well, the itemized list is:

Brawny 8-roll paper towels
2 Raisin Bran Cereal
2 Coffee Mate coffee creamers
2 bags of Snickers Valentine's candies
2 Nestle Crunch individual candy hearts
Sure men's deodorant
2 Pert Plus Men's 3 in 1 shampoo, conditioner and body wash, and
3 1-liters of A&w root beer, 7-up and Canada Dry ginger ale

Gotta go to Harp's now and get my Hall's cough drops for $0.18 and my Quaker Oats instant oatmeal for $1.00.

Raising $ to Send Phill to Haiti

2010-01-21T11:15:00.012-06:00

Feel free to place your order below. This is the first time I've used this checkout feature, so be sure to leave a comment and let me know you've paid.

30/$20 Cake Balls!

Hunger for Haiti

2010-01-21T10:30:00.006-06:00

{Update} I have four sets of CBs going out the first of next week. Comment now to pre-order for the next batch which will be available later next week.

It's been a while since I've baked goods for charity, but with the recent earthquake and aftershock in Haiti and from a friend's initiative to give, I decided now was a great time to start back up!

So, beginning next week, I'll be baking Cake Balls. To save on your cost, so that more can actually be donated, they will come in large "Ziploc" bags. You'll receive 30 for $20. Unfortunately, since they are made with chocolate, I cannot ship and guarantee their solidness. However, if you are outside of NWA and would still like to donate, you can then give the Cake Balls to someone locally.

Our church sent a team to Haiti today and will be sending more soon! The money raised will be used where it needs to be. I know that sounds vague right now, but if it needs to be used to send people or to buy supplies, to help with medications, etc...it will be put into good hands. I'll have more specific details hopefully next week!

Until then, get excited to eat some chocolate! What a great Valentine's gift they would make.

If you'd like to pre-order, just leave a comment. I'll have a way for you to pay next week.

Grateful Miscarriage.

2010-01-13T13:04:00.004-06:00

Through many situations in my life, a few good books and friends, I've learned to never ask why.

Why me?

Why them?

Why not me?

At the end of 2009, life was looking sweet. Phill and I were pregnant with our third child and the grand news would be delivered on Christmas Eve and Day to our parents, who were thrilled. It was all so exciting, not simply b/c we were bringing a new member into our family, but b/c .. well .. it had been eight years since I'd been pregnant. And that's a bit shocking!

Three days after telling our good news, we learned via ultrasound that my sac contained no baby. We weren't prepared for it. My body felt pregnant, was beginning to look pregnant and of course our hearts were ready for this child.

We were disappointed, but weren't crushed. Life goes on. So let's pick up and go.

During that time, we had so many people flood us with love, food, flowers, calls, etc .. It was almost overwhelming, in a good way. Honestly it felt a little weird, b/c like I said, we were moving on.

The day after Christmas my body failed to yield to health and instead drove straight on the autobahn of ear infections. So while our family was being pampered for a miscarriage, I was accepting the love on behalf of my ear. Sounds silly, but the pain I was in wasn't emotional, it was physical.

Our anniversary was January 9th and we decided [long before any of this happened] that we were going to get away and go to the place we went on our honeymoon. It was fabulous. Even though my ear wasn't 100% better and I had another issue that I choose to believe was caused from all the antibiotic I was taking. We really had a great time and for the first time, "there's no place like home" wasn't calling us back. We really wanted to stay longer. That's how relaxed and how much fun we were having.

But we came home.

And our routine started to set in again. Life was feeling normal.

The Monday after we returned, I started my period. Happiness ensued and normalcy was taking place in my body again! It seemed so fast.

But then Tuesday I started cramping and began to have blood clots. A lot of them. All day long. My husband urged me to call the clinic. They told me what I needed to know and that this was to be expected, but that there were a few signs to look for that I could be losing too much blood.

That night, I thought I had.

Phill called the hospital and the ER gave some conflicting news. Maybe we should stay home b/c this seemed normal at least to them. So we chose to stay and I immediately lay down and slept for about an hour and a half.

I woke up utterly amazed at how good I felt and went straight into Kyra's room to ask if she'd been praying for me. Loved her honesty: "No, I hadn't yet."

I checked my phone and had two texts from my dear SIL, Kelly and one from my friend who both said they'd been praying for me.

I knew someone had. I felt a 180.

And so all of this leads me to share something I read this morning.

Then a great and powerful wind [miscarriage] tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake [ear infection], but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. [Other versions use a still, small voice.]

The book I'm reading is Hello: My Name is God. Here's the excerpt:

The wind, earthquake and fire seem a better match for our lives, a better way for Him to make sure we hear Him. But listening to God in these things wouldn't require any humility. It wouldn't require us shutting our own noise off long enough to pay attention and give Him the place of authority the Most High deserves.

To hear a still, small voice amid the crumbling mountains and raging seas and failing nations, we must stop and ourselves be still. To listen.

So why this happened doesn't matter, at least not today. But I am convinced that everything happens for a reason and for the good to those who love and are called to the Lord. Maybe I needed to be still. Maybe I needed to share my story with someone else who could benefit from it, because I know that's why we go through tough times, to learn and to help someone else heal. Maybe my daughter will go through this and I'll have solid experience to be able to help her through.

I don't know, but I know God does and since He is in control the only thing I can ask is for Him to use this to help someone else. And since it will, I am grateful.

Eleven Years and STILL I Love This Man

2010-01-11T18:03:00.007-06:00

Phill and I celebrated our eleven year anniversary on the 9th of this month. We went to Big Cedar Lodge [with, but not with some friends, The Maclins]. It was a lot of fun b/c that is where we went for our honeymoon. Here are some pics of our lodge:

This is the living room that looks out across to more cabins. At night, they have the cabins all lit up and it's simply gorgeous.

I know this is dark, but I wanted to share the window view from the bedroom. We pretty much kept these open the whole time, except while sleeping. Who wants to wake up with the dawn? Not us, at least not on vacation.

And this is a picture of a few of the cabins. One of them we stayed in 11 years ago.

Looking forward to the next year!

Italian Creme Cake

2009-08-24T21:06:00.001-05:00

Auction begins now!! Go to www.facebook.com/sajoscakery to bid on a very, very rich delight. $20.00 starts this bid. Pics to come.

Who Will Get a Chance to Buy Key Lime Pie?

2009-08-21T13:36:00.003-05:00

The numbers generated by this widget come from RANDOM.ORG's true random number generator.

I will be using the list of folks who have commented on Sajo's Cakery!'s page to enter their number here and see who gets picked to buy a Key Lim Pie for $20.00!! Remember, $13.00 goes to Servant's Heart of NWA.

Come back at 4p to see whose name gets drawn!

Want a chance to buy a Key Lime Pie? Simply go click here and leave a comment.

Vitamin C .. Carrot Cake and Chocolate Chip Cookies

2009-08-17T13:13:00.005-05:00

Okay. I know.

Here are the yummy and fantastical choc. chip cookies that sweet Blake won!

Carrot Cake. Need I say more? Well, I will. It is up for auction until tomorrow, August 18th @ 5p. If you would like this sweet cake as an afternoon treat for your kids, then click here to bid. Remember, after school they are hungry!

You Put the Lime in the .. Carrot?

2009-08-16T15:36:00.002-05:00

Any thoughts on what's to come this week? Let me know what you think.

Manhattan Cheesecake!

2009-08-12T09:53:00.004-05:00

This cheesecake is amazing. It's dense but more importantly, delicious!

Go bid! http://www.facebook.com/sajoscakery

Money above cost will go to Servant's Heart of NWA.

Round Zebra

2009-08-10T22:09:00.002-05:00

Pooouuur Some Sugar on Meeeeeeeee!

2009-08-07T11:18:00.000-05:00

That's what my marshmallow fondant was singing to me as I made it yesterday. Whew that stuff is sti-cky. I almost gave up on making it, even. Alas, I trudged through the confection and made some [I wouldn't call it delicious] tasty fondant.

This is what the work surface looked like the whole time.

Practically after each knead of fondant .. messy.

And this is what my fondant covered.

Sajo's Cakery and Servant's Heart of NWA Update

2009-08-05T09:06:00.000-05:00

Yellow Cake with Chocolate Icing won for $15.50

42 Cake Balls won for $32.00

In the course of six days, Sajo's Cakery along with your bids, were able to help raise $47.50 to donate to Servant's Heart of NWA!! Please check out their site and see how they're able to help others in need.

If you want to follow SH on Facebook, click here.

Want to help and get something sweet to eat out of it? I have a poll over there on the -----> top right of the screen as to which day I'll be auctioning off another edible delight. Can you say, "Manhattan Cheesecake?" Oh yeah. 'Tis verra good! So go and vote for which day you'd like to have your cake .. and eat it too. Keep in mind, this cheesecake is good for three days.

Go vote!

Have a lovely Wednesday!

Cake Balls

2009-08-04T13:26:00.000-05:00

Up for auction are Cake Balls! The bidding ends tonight at 9p. If you want to bid, please go to http://www.facebook.com/sajoscakery to place yours. Good luck!

All money will go to Servant's Heart of NWA. Check them out: http://www.servantsheartnwa.org/

Giving is So Sweet!

2009-08-01T20:57:00.000-05:00

Check this out!

Have a Little Heart

2009-07-30T09:19:00.000-05:00

A Servant's Heart that is. Don't you always feel good when you do something for someone else .. someone who neeeeeds it? It certainly is better to give than to receive.

Today I'm auctioning a yellow cake with chocolate icing off for a non-profit organization: http://servantsheartnwa.org/ Click the link to learn more about how they're helping our community!

Here's how it works: Email me: sajoscakery@hotmail.com and place your bid for the cake. This will be much like eBay in how it works [only not so much in real time, b/c I have to go grocery shopping today and I won't be here for about an hour and a half]. Bidding ends at 4p and the proceeds will go to Servant's Heart of NWA. This is a way for you to do something for someone else and get a sweet deal out of it. Win/Win!

Check the current price at http://www.facebook.com/sajoscakery

Good luck, and really, thank you!

Let Them Eat Cake!

2009-07-29T16:05:00.000-05:00

Eventually.

Welcome to my blog. My "real" name is Sandy. Sajo comes from my first two names: Sandy Jo. Glad you were wondering, happy to answer.

My challenge right now is to profit from making cakes. Currently I am checking with the Health Department to see if it is legal in Arkansas to make and sell food from your home without a separate kitchen. When I know more, then I'll know how long this small-business is going to take to get on its feet.

Until then, I'm going to post pics of cakes I have made or am making.

You can follow me on:

Twitter: http://twitter.com/sajoscakery

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sajoscakery

Thanks for checking me out!!