Tuesday, November 10, 2020

Just Be Nice

 I'm not feeling well today. 


I missed one of my long-acting insulin doses a couple of nights ago and I've had trouble stabilizing my blood sugars since. 

Plus, like many, I am feeling just kind of unsettled and "blah." 

Sometimes, living a beautiful life doesn't come easy. We have to work at the whole thing. 

Frankly, I'm not all that interested in working too hard. But, one of my super powers is that I don't like it when I feel unsettled and blah so I can't live there too long.  

And as much I would like to UNLOAD on poor unsuspecting social media friends and acquaintances, I don't believe in pouring out that much venom and unhappiness into the world. 

Social media can be a terrific thing. But it can also be harmful and toxic. 

It is easy to fall into the pit of the misunderstood and disenfranchised. However, I firmly believe that nobody is responsible for my attitude but me and me alone. 

There are so. many. words. floating about the interwebs. Most of them are not so nice. 

The real story is the majority of people I know aren't so committed to life on social media. They get up. They take care of their families. They try to be nice to people around them. They don't really stress about what some poor soul in another part of the country feels about them. 

They have bigger fish to fry. As do we all. 

Are many of us talking too much? Are we putting things out there that can't be retracted? 

You bet your bippie. So this post is going to be short. 

You are loved. 

We are a fortunate people. 

God has been so faithful to me and mine. That I will shout from the rooftops. 

Just be nice. You have bigger fish to fry. 

Amen and amen. 

Monday, November 2, 2020

A Simple Fall Table

Good afternoon! 


Today, I am sharing my Fall Table. If you saw my Fall Spaces video you might have seen the same table decorated simply with a different set of dishes and velvet burgundy placemats. 

This time I've brought out my sparkly dishes and some more subtle bergamot-colored placemats. I've also added some drama with greens from the yard, brass candlesticks, and some late roses (also from the yard). 

I have such a good time doing these. I already have plans for more than 1 (or 3) for Christmas. 

Do you enjoy a pretty table?



 

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Thirsty? The Bible Ladies Brunch Bunch and A Simple Charcuterie Board

 This is our very last Bible Study for the Woman of the Bible Series. 



Don't worry. I am in the works for a brand new series that will start soon. Be ready for a few special videos in the meantime. 


Same time. Same place. 


Actually, I am a little late this week getting this one up. It is ALWAYS tech problems. 


The Woman at the Well is a story many of us have heard countless times. There are songs written about Wells that never run dry and never thirsting again. 

It is a strange idea. Not ever being thirsty again. 



It didn't take long for the Woman at the Well to understand that the thirst that Jesus spoke about wasn't physical thirst...but spiritual thirst. He offered Living Water. Eternal Water. And that woman who had suffered a life of sorrows was ready to receive all He had to offer. 

I hope I am as thirsty. 

I am also sharing this week the fabulous Charcuterie board. You need to jump on the Charcuterie board train. I have a few I am doing to put together for the Christmas season. I will be sure to share. 


As always, you can grab you FREE printables at the end of the post. I am also including a FULL recipe book for all the recipes featured in the The Bible Ladies Brunch Bunch "Women of the Bible" Series. 


Hope you enjoy the video! 


This Week's Printables 

Bible Study Notes Printable

Bible Study Journal

Scripture Printable

The Simple Brunch Charcuterie Board


Let's Do Brunch Cookbook



Sunday, October 25, 2020

Negative!

 Good news. 

If you read my Blog Post yesterday then you are aware that I had a Covid-19 test. 

I just got the results. 

Negative.

Yay! This means I can leave my house this next week. 

I did get some much-needed rest. It's amazing how we don't know what we need until we get it. 

And a few days curled up with my cat and a good mystery was what I needed. I can tell you that my family was relieved with my results. 

If there was a reward for strange illnesses, unusual catastrophes and ill-timed disasters, I would probably win the whole thing in a land-slide. I have caused my family bucket loads of anxiety over the year. 

I'm glad to have passed on this one. This time. 

Saturday, October 24, 2020

Is It The Rona?

I MIGHT have the Rona. 

As I type this, I am waiting for the Health Department to text me with the results of my test. 

To be honest, I will be surprised if I have it. I really don't feel all that poorly. I'm in the high risk category and have spent the last several months trying to avoid the rest of y'all. 

The test was an adventure in itself. Now don't get me wrong. I am well acquainted with a good ole medical procedure. This girl is not afraid of the pain. After all, I have had traction rods screwed through my legs with only a little lidocaine to help.

But that stick up the nose. I HATE stuff sticking up my nose. I think the nice nurse was trying to dig around for what few brain cells I have left. 

After that 15 seconds of blessed bliss was over, she popped the specimen into a little tube with my name and serial number and told me that I would find out if I had the dreaded Rona in 3-5 business days.

I really don't mind being stuck in the house at this point. I can entertain myself quite easily. I'm also introverted enough that it takes a whole lot for me to long for human interaction. 

I have a cat. I have Diet Coke. I have access to fresh reading material. 

If I didn't have such a headache, I would call it "easy living." 

In the meantime, I'll keep googling "seasonal allergies versus The Rona" every half hour and checking my phone for new messages from the Health Department. 

What a crazy time. 

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

A Woman with Issues - The Bible Ladies Brunch Bunch and a Cheesy Grits Casserole!

 It's time for Bible Study! 


Today we are going to talk about a lady who had a few issues. Or at least one MAJOR issue. 

I have quite a few thoughts about this story and I share it in the video below. 

It's hard to talk about these things. And for those of you who have had similar experiences it can certainly be life draining. 




Frankly, we all have issues. Your issue might be completely different than the "issue of blood" this unnamed woman suffered with. 

I encourage all of us to not give up. To persevere. No matter what your particular might be. 

As always, you can snag all the printable goodies below. As well as the recipe for the awesome Cheesy Grits Casserole I share in the video. 

It will change your life! 






This Week's Printables

Bible Study Notes Printable

Bible Study Journal

Scripture Printable

Cheesy Grits Casserole




Monday, October 19, 2020

Fall Spaces at the Parsonage

 I am sharing a video I made of  Fall at the Parsonage. 


To be honest I am not that thrilled with it. I can that the walls in the living room need repainted. I need to buff down the piano with Old English. 

And I really don't like the throw pillows. 


I also struggled with my voice. Do I really sound like that? I didn't realize I sounded so "lispy"...we probably can blame that on my crooked teeth. 


I suppose that nothing is ever perfect. The beautifully produced videos and homes of Pinterest Land don't tell the real story of life. 


The truth is that our home has been a safe place filled with comfort and warmness. Staying home for me is not a punishment. It is filled with beautiful art, beloved books and pets, a fine collection of hot tea and, most importantly, people that I love. 

Recently, I heard someone say that we all need to take those leaps. No matter if they aren't perfectly orchestrated or complete. 


My goal in whatever I have done on this blog all these years is to share just a little bit of my life with you. My hope is to encourage. Trying to add beauty into the struggle, the heartbreak, and the mundane has made all the difference in how I live my life. 


Hope you enjoy! 



Sunday, October 18, 2020

Pumpkin Pie Playdough

 Heya! 

I've got a fun post for you today...with a video and all! 

Let's talk playdough. 

As you might or might not know. In a former life, I was a Early Childhood Teacher. 

And believe it or not, I never had a class in college on Playdough Making 101. 

Maybe the education intellectuals don't understand the benefits of a good playdough recipe. Playdough CAN be your friend. Don't be scared of the mess of it all. 

But I'm not here today to number the many benefits of a playdough education. I'm simply going to share my favorite recipe...EVAH...with a twist. 

(You can download PDF versions of ALL Printables below)


In the video, you will hear me refer to BABY OIL. Don't make this particular version of playdough with the baby oil. It doesn't really meld well with the spiciness of pumpkin pie. But. Immediately after that...make the playdough with baby oil. 


I've also created some mini Autumn playdough mats. There are 16 ( believe). Laminate or cover these with contact paper. 


And because I am also sorts of extra, I made some treat bag toppers. All are fall themed. Most are blank. Expect for this one. HOW CUTE IS THIS? 



Treat bag toppers are my jam. 


I hope you enjoy. And embrace the playdough. 












Pumpkin Playdough Printables

Pumpkin Pie Playdough Recipe

Autumn Playdough Mini-Mats

Autumn Treat Bag Toppers

Saturday, October 10, 2020

Wife of Jesus? Prostitute? How About Neither. The Bible Ladies Brunch Bunch and Old Fashioned Apple Pudding

 As I am writing this post, I am STILL waiting for the Bible Study to upload. 


It's been quite the week. 


Have you ever had a season in your life that you have felt uneasy, yet you really couldn't pin down why? Or maybe it is a mixture of things...not one specific incident you can point to. 


For example "this happened (name your crisis) and it stinks." 




This week I've been uneasy. I might talk more about it in a later post. Even the Bible Ladies video coming to you right now made me uneasy.

Why? In it I call myself something I rarely even admit to. Morbidly obese. The struggle is real and private and painful and humiliatingly. 

This part of my life has been the one unconquered battle. 

Mary Magdalene knew suffering. The Bible says that she was possessed by 7 demons. While, I know my issues aren't caused by demon possession, I do know what it is like to be DESPERATE for change. For an answer. For the magic pill. 

When Mary Magdalene was delivered she was changed. That change shaped the rest of her life. She was witness to life and ministry of Jesus Christ. She was witness to His crucifixion. She and the other women in Jesus' life lovingly and carefully prepared his body for burial. And she was the first that Jesus appeared to after His resurrection. 

While we have not been given such a front row seat to mankind's greatest miracle, each of us have been changed. And we continue to change. 

My daily reminder to myself is that I need to continually be desperate for Him. That I need not forget ALL He has done for me. And if He could make this crooked body walk again. If He could fill my empty arms with a beautiful child. If He could cause laughter and joy to rise within my heart after dark, dark days. He can take care of WHATEVER I have need of. 

In our video today, we also discuss Mary's rather soiled reputation. Which is most definitely undeserved. While Bible Scholars have righted that wrong, it's tough to get rid of a label. And it's tough to get rid of those labels we attach to ourselves. 

What label have you attached yourself to? 

I think it is time to peel off some of those labels. 

In the video, I am sharing an Old-Fashioned Apple Pudding. You can find the recipe and Scripture printables below. 

Enjoy. 






This Week's Printables

Bible Study Notes Printable

Bible Study Journal

Scripture Printable

Apple Pudding



Saturday, October 3, 2020

Hot Heads. Grumpy Old Men. And Wise Women. The Bible Ladies Brunch Bunch (Pumpkin Muffins)

I'm late for Bible Study this week. 




I am not going to even defend myself. 

However, let it be known that this is not the first video I filmed and edited. 

The first one was a comedy of errors. Interruptions. And I was chatty. 

Waaayyy chatty. And not in a good way. 

Anyhoo. So I got my thoughts together. Put on my false eyelashes and filmed another one. 

THEN the Interwebs struck. I not only tried to download this video once, but twice. 

My internet is a testy old lady. She kept kicking me out of the World Wide Web. We finally had to take the computer over the church office and let the internet over there do it's thing. It's holy internet. Blessed and sanctified. 



Anyhoo. 

This week we are talking about Abigail. Actually, we also discuss Michal and a little bit of Bathsheba's role in the Bible. 

All of these ladies were David's wives. 

David's life was messy. We all know that. 

But God used him. As God uses all of us in all of our imperfections.

Of course, this lesson isn't about David. We read about Abigail. The beautiful young woman who is married to a surly older man. She does some fast thinking and saves all of the men in her household from certain destruction via David's sword. 

And becomes one of his wives when it's all said and done. 

I don't recommend finding a good harem to marry yourself into, but I do suggest we all take a page from Abigail's book. 

I hope you enjoy the video. Below are this week's printables. You must try the recipe for the Pumpkin Muffins. I used it again tonight with a box of sugar free brownie mix and  a half a can of pumpkin. 

So simple. 





This Week's Printables

Bible Study Notes Printable

Bible Study Journal

Scripture Printable

Easy Pumpkin Muffins

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

Drunk? Or Just Barren? The Bible Ladies Brunch Bunch And the Impossible Breakfast Pie

 Good morning! 



Today's lesson hits too close to home. 


We are talking about Hannah and her barren womb. 


Of course, there is much more to Hannah then her barren womb. 


It was a lesson I really could have expanded and expounded upon. I certainly have had years of trying to work it all out in my own head. 

Here's the truth. Sometimes we don't know why. We just have to accept that God has purpose in our suffering. 


Hannah's purpose was that she would give birth to Samuel. He would be raised in the temple and later be spiritual counsellor to King David. He was the one who found him raising sheep, after. 

Samuel learned to listen to God's voice. And the story of his mother is one that reminds us to trust God in ALL THINGS and never give up hope. 


Be sure to download the printables locates at the bottom of the page after you are done watching the lesson. The recipe today is for an Impossible Breakfast Pie. 

It's a good one. 





This Week's Printables

Bible Study Notes Printable

Bible Study Journal

Scripture Printable

Impossible Breakfast Pie



Thursday, September 17, 2020

Velvety

 Good morning.


It's much later than it needs to be. I have a whole list of things that need my attention, yet I find myself doing piddley things like writing nonsense blog posts. 

Yesterday, I promised an update on those green velvet pillow covers I ordered from Amazon. 


Overall, I like them. They are a tad bigger than I needed. I'm not quite sure what I was thinking about when I ordered them. I generally order 18X18 covers for my 20X20 pillow forms. These look a little baggy. 

I already noticed a bit of cat hair clinging to this one. 

Princess the Cat adores a good textured pillow or throw. Kind of like her momma. 

I like fabrics that feel good on my skin and, like most of us, find fabrics that are scratchy and stiff unbearable. 

My project for today is a simple one. I have a blank spot on my gallery wall. 99% of this wall is made up of my momma's artwork. My goal is to find a frame that I can stick a piece of jewelry in. It is a broach that belonged to my great-grandmother. I had it displayed once before, but I believed the frame didn't make it through out last move. 

I realize my little project has nothing to do with preparing for fall. But I have been staring at that space long enough. It's time to act. 

Do you find yourself behind in "projects?" I certainly love a good project. Even the most mundane of details fail to frighten me away from one. BUT I can get overwhelmed if I have too much going on. 

So for today. Let us start where we are. I had good advice from a friend. This was concerning weight loss, but I think it applies to whatever we are doing. We need to do the small things first. Don't focus on the enormity of the task or project or goal at hand. Do what you can TODAY. 

And today I can take myself to the thrift store to find a little frame. 

So what is a small thing you can do TODAY to reach your goal? 

I'll share the finished wall tomorrow. 



Wednesday, September 16, 2020

First of Fall

 I was drinking my morning coffee in the big comfy chair in the living room when I noticed them. 

Not an actual picture from my living room window. This is a stock photo. I couldn't put THAT much effort into this post. 😁


Bits of brightly covered leaves peeking out of the trees across the street. 


I immediately began to plan the first pot of chili for the season.  I am one of those annoying people who can't be bothered to celebrate fall while still running the AC at full blast. Until I feel like I can sport my fuzzy socks and slippers without fear of heat stroke, I feel downright awkward pretending it's really fall. 


Cause it's not. 


Until it is. 


I am trying a new approach to my fall decorating and celebrations this year. l hope to give a peek into what I am doing. In the meantime, I don't want to wish away my days for the hope of new things to come. 


I think we have all been guilty of that. We are so anxious for 2020 to make a quiet exit that we are not fully enjoying the days we have. 


Sure. They don't look like they used to. There is unrest and uncertainty. But let's be honest. There has always been unrest and uncertainty somewhere. We can chose to get swallowed up in the drama and chaos OR we can live our lives with purpose and gratitude. 


Sometimes it's as hard as getting up in the morning and deciding to ask for God's direction and grace for the day. 


I am spending the next few days leading up to the "official" start of fall preparing my space and my heart for a simpler and gracious season. Today, I am focused on decluttering some spaces. I also made time in my morning to write this post. 


I've got some green velvet pillow covers coming in the mail from Amazon and a pumpkin spice candle sitting on my kitchen island ready to be burned. 


I'll report back tomorrow and let you know if the velvet pillows are everything I hoped they be. 





Mettle and Murder! The Bible Ladies Brunch Bunch Studies Deborah and Jael (plus a great recipe for a Blueberry Buckle)

 Good Morning! 




I hope you are ready for a GOOD study today. 

Our story today has everything! Battles! Blood! Murder! 

It's not a movie or a good murder mystery. It's a true story from the book of Judges. 




I have your printables linked below. And don't forget to print the recipe for the Blueberry Buckle. Your family will thank you.  Be sure to share this study with your friends. I will try and get out a landing page and start linking all of the lessons. 

I hope you enjoy! 



This Week's Printables

Bible Study Notes Printable

Bible Study Journal

Scripture Printable

The Blueberry Buckle Printable


Wednesday, September 9, 2020

The Bible Ladies Brunch Bunch - Such Devoted Sisters? Rachel & Leah

 


I hope you are enjoying our Bible Study thus far. 

The family of Abraham certainly has some twisty relationships…AND it’s about to get even more complicated.

Have you ever seen the movie White Christmas?

It’s one of my favorites. In the movie, two sisters have a singing act and we first see them singing this song written by Irving Berlin.

Sisters, sisters

There were never such devoted sisters

Never had to have a chaperone, no sir

I'm here to keep my eye on her

 

Caring, sharing

Every little thing that we are wearing

When a certain gentleman arrived from Rome

She wore the dress and I stayed home

 

All kinds of weather we stick together

The same in the rain or sun

Two different faces but in tight places

We think and we act as one

 

Those who've seen us

Know that not a thing can come between us

Many men have tried to split us up but no one can

Lord, help the mister who comes between me and my sister

And Lord, help the sister who comes between me and my man

 

All kinds of weather we stick together

The same in the rain or sun

Two different faces but in tight places

We think and we act as one

 

Those who've seen us

Know that not a thing could come between us

Many men have tried to split us up but no one can

Lord, help the mister who comes between me and my sister

And Lord, help the sister who comes between me and my man

 

Sisters, sisters

Sister, don't come between me and my man

 

Obviously, the two sisters we are going to talk about today indeed had a “mister” come between them.

We are talking about Rachel and Leah. And the ultimate in sibling rivalry.

In the video, I read to you a little blurb from my study Bible (The Life in the Spirit Study Bible) about polygamy. I promised you some Scriptures.

Of course, I didn’t get them put in my video (distraction problems) but I thought I would share this article for you here regarding polygamy and God’s plan. I found it to be sound.




As always, I am including some FREE printables for you to enjoy along with your study. AND a printable recipe for the Veggie Crustless Quiche.  Just look below. The Scripture printable is a PDF of the scripture from Proverbs you see above. It is really lovely. 

 

Next week we are talking about Deborah and Jael (found in Judges) and I am sharing one of the most viewed recipes on my blog. The Blueberry Buckle.

 


Just in time for fall.

 

Hope you enjoy this week’s video.


This Week's Printables

Bible Study Notes Printable

Bible Study Journal

Scripture Printable

Veggie Crustless Quiche Printable


Tuesday, September 8, 2020

I'm getting old....

I've been doing some thinking lately. 

Dangerous occupation, I know. 

Mostly, I've been trying to avoid the news and all of the crazy that goes with it. 

My superpower is avoidance. 

Some of ya'll need to schedule in naps during your day. I am serious. 

So instead of news, I've been watching some lifestyle vlogs. 

I am always fascinated by those Ultimate Disaster Clean with Me videos. Those Ultimate Disasters never look like my Ultimate Disasters. Where are the mountains of laundry? The empty bags of Cheese Puffs littering the coffee table? 

I'd show you Ultimate Disaster Clean with Me, but I am NEVER going to film myself cleaning my house. 

For one, I'd feel obligated to wear real pants. 

Another thing I don't understand. 

What is it with Dry Shampoo? 

To me that sounds icky. Why don't you girls just wash your hair when you jump in the shower? 

I realize you don't feel like you have to fix your hair up every time you wash it. 

This is why we have messy buns, pony tails, and head bands. 

My generation spent hours every day teasing the hooey out of our bangs every morning. We found liberation when we didn't have to worry about perming our hair every 3 months. 

Wash that hair. 

Another thing I don't understand is Facetime. 

Why do you want to talk to someone on the phone and look at them at the same time? 

Isn't the whole point of a phone conversation is that you can literally be on your couch in your nighty and some fuzzy socks and no one knows?

Those folks I'm talking to can imagine me all put together...they don't have to no any better. 

As far as they know, I am wearing real pants. 



Wednesday, September 2, 2020

The Bible Ladies Brunch Bunch - Was Sarah Really Abrahams Sister? - French Toast Cups

 Good Morning! 


I'm excited to start a brand new thing on the blog and my Youtube channel. 

I'm sharing NEW Bible Study series called The Bible Ladies Brunch Bunch,

Together, we are going to study women of the Bible for 8 sessions and the first week is Sarah. 

You can grab a notebook OR download my FREE printables I created just for this study. It is a generic form, so you can use this one every week. 

For the past few years, my church ladies and I have gathered around my table on Wednesday morning for Bible study. I have fixed all manner of good things. I thought it would be fun to bring the study to YOU and to those who can't get out right now. 

This is the first video, so be patient with me. I think I'm a little too chatty and just a bit squirrelly. 

Included in the video is a recipe for French Toast Cups. There is a printable PDF version of the recipe below if are so inclined. 



It was obvious to me I was going to chose Sarah first to study. I have pondered this question for years. Was Sarah really Abraham's sister? I don't think I answer in this video, but we do talk about some twisty stuff. In fact, I use that word a lot. 

Twisty. 

Whatever word you use it is comforting to know that God still uses our messes and is MORE than able to work out His plan. Despite our meddling. 




I hope you enjoy the video. See you next week. 



Week 1 - Sarah Printables

Bible Study Page

Bible Study Journal 

Scripture Printable

French Toast Cups Recipe

Monday, May 11, 2020

The Quarantine Splurge

I am not sure of the day.

Is it Thursday? Or was yesterday Thursday?

Not to worry.

I now know it's Monday and all is well.

How are you folks holding up?

We are well.

I am busier than I have ever thought I would be stuck at home.

I'm also going to be here just a little bit longer.

It's just the way of things.

Fortunately, I can entertain myself and can always find something to do.

Believe it or not, I've not watched hardly any TV. There isn't anything I'm binging on Hulu or Netflix.

Josiah and I were going to have a marathon of all The Lord of the Rings movies but then Netflix removed them from their site.

Curses!

We have them on DVD. But to be honest it isn't quite the same as binging them on a streaming service.

Also, we just now found the remote to the DVD player. I think it had been in quarantine underneath Josiah's bed.

Scary. Place.

I have read all the crime thrillers I could squeeze into my online library reader. I can't even imagine the number of people who have been doing the same thing.

There was a book I just looked up to place on hold. It said I would have to wait 10 weeks before it was my turn to read it.

What? 10 weeks? How long is 10 weeks?

Will it still be 2020?

Is this Thursday?

Anyhoo. I looked it up on Amazon (kindle) and found out I would need to dish out 9.99.

I just couldn't. I can read books for free. That 9.99 could go towards a cute pair of summer sandals.

Speaking of summer sandals.

I might have purchased a pair or four online. In my defense, I never spend a whole lot of money on my shoes. Or anything for that matter.

But these shoes. I ordered them from an online boutique I stalk. They were marked down and I had a coupon code.

I realize purchasing shoes of any kind is risky online. But. These came in and I immediately tried them on.

They were marvelous. They kind of molded to my feet like some sort of fantastic hammock. But with a cute wedge. 

So I ordered just a pair (or two) more.

This from a girl who splurges on Old Navy flip flops and ballet flats from the Walmarts.

I feel kind of wild. And extravagant.

I also don't have anywhere to wear them.

But, boy....when I do. I'm going to be stylin'.

Stay safe. And buy yourself some cute sandals.




Friday, May 1, 2020

Falsies

I'm editing videos for church today.


I did a parcel of them yesterday, too.

It's hard to imagine this, but I am our church's camerawoman, video editor, AND social media manager.

We've been using our cell phones, and a couple of inexpensive or free programs for editing and graphic making.

I've learned a little more than I knew before. But who would have thought my entrance into video reviews last year for the Old Schoolhouse Magazine would have provided such great experience for "such a time as this."

I've also been trying out False Eyelashes.

Yes, I have.

I've seen other people wear them. In my defense, my own eyelashes are practically non-existent and blonde. I figure I'm a grown woman.

I can do whatever I want (circa Beyonce 2014).

You should see me try and put them on. I would record myself but what lands on the interwebs...stays on the interwebs. They would be part of some frightening meme collection.

This morning, I had glue all over my eyelids. I had to pry my lids apart.

I shall continue in my efforts.

Other people are learning a second language, learning to weave, and bake a perfect loaf of bread.

I'm learning to apply falsies.

Stay safe my friends.


Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Rub a Dub Dub

Folks in my family take their baths very seriously.



At least, those who still partake in the bathing ritual.

There are a few sellouts who shower.

Which, I do, from time to time.

My favorite bathing location has to be the master bath at my parents' farm.

The bathtub there is some sort of glorious creation of blue and green glass tile and a massive whirlpool tub built into something resembling a miniature deck.

To reach the tub, one has to stand at the very edge of the room and make a running leap.

At least, those of us are more vertically challenged.

I'm sure my 4'11 Momma could easily perform a swan dive as part of her ceremonial bathing.

When I visited last summer, I could always be found at the end of a long, hot day resting and soaking in that tub.

Around the tub is an assortment of wonderous bathing and soaking products.

It's like a dreamy spa... but free and over the top.

The first night, my niece brought in these glorious bath bombs. They were all purple and gold and sparkly. The particular one I tossed in the bath floated and bobbed across the tub leaving in its wake a trail of happiness.

The next night, my mom showed me...wonders of wonders...a box filled with rose petals made from soap. These had been a gift from my sister. I was tempted to sneak them home in my bag, along with the rose-scented wipes my mom kept on her vanity.

To even further the experience, I would drag in a pedestal fan every night and point the thing right at me as I soaked in the tub reading some delicious murder mystery.

It was as close as I was going to get to a vacation near a body of water....let alone a beach.

My own bathtub at home is well-used, though modest.

It is an older tub...not one of those new fiberglass jobs that leave the user feeling as if she is bathing in a sink.

I have my own collection of bathing paraphanlia...not as impressive as my mother's...but I do my best.

There is the Dr. Teal's salts, the essential oils, the marvelous spa brush that exfoliates, and the usual assortment of scrubs, washes, lotions, etc.

I have to share my space with Old Spice body wash, and several bottles of men's shampoo.

One of these days, I am sure that Jesus is going to send me a real-life claw foot tub.

We had one when I was a teenager.

It was wonderful. We lived in an 1800's farmhouse that had let the town grow up around it over the years. This room didn't have a shower. The shower had been added later in a downstairs afterthought.

This bathtub was a work of art.  My mom bought one of those blow-up spa pillows so we could lean back and truly enjoy the soaking experience.

When I am in the tub, I can take some time to let my body relax. The water soothes my achy joints and calms my spirits.

There is something so comforting about those little rituals we have in our life. No matter how poor we've been...where we've lived...the time I have taken to unwind and care for myself has provided something constant and necessary.

There have been seasons that I was physically unable to get into a tub. Or even bath myself. So I don't take it for granted.

I think during this time of uncertainty it's been nice to continue the practice of soaking and thinking.

We don't like to talk about self-care. For most of us, it brings up thoughts of weekly pedicures, hair extensions, and massages.

I'm not going to fuss at you if you participate in any of those things...at least those things you can do when the world isn't locked down.

But...if you are like me and tend to neglect yourself in the care of others...you need to hear this.

It's okay to offer some tender loving care...to yourself.

Your TLC might look differently. A quiet morning with a cup of coffee. A time spent in front of an easel with a little pallet of watercolors. Saving up for those cute, but comfy shoes that will get you through summer and belong. No duct taping the flip-flops this year!

I've been inspired to add to my "spa collection" when we are free to shop at TJ Maxx. I am going to look for some of those rose petals made from soap. And maybe another bath bomb that shoots out purple and gold sparkles.



Sunday, April 19, 2020

Projects to do...

It's late Sunday evening.

I'm in the corner of my comfy couch dressed in my jammies.

I've not felt well today. I'm sure it's not the Rona. It's my annual tour of seasonal allergies. I love spring. Most of it. All the pretty blooming things make me cough. And sneeze.

I also had a fairly unproductive day. I was going to do a bit of house cleaning and laundry. I'm still feeling like a bit of an unrepentant sinner. I haven't been to a physical church service in a month. Does anyone else feel kind of naughty? It's probably the Preacher's Kid in me, too. We didn't miss church unless we were close to dead.

Being a Pastor's wife isn't a whole lot different. I also feel like I have to apologize profusely whenever I miss.

I will have a video out tomorrow. I filmed a little bit of a chat Friday. I was doing church videos so I thought, "why not?" In it, I talk about how I have been struggling with writer's block.

What is ironic is that the next morning I got up and whipped out a blog article for the Homeschooling with Heart (Old Schoolhouse) Blog. I'm not saying it's worth reading but I didn't struggle with it as much as I had anticipated.

This week I do have a list of things to do that are a priority. I still want to be writing. But these are things that need a bit of dedicated time and I am going to take advantage of our continued stay-at-home order.

Josiah and I are going to go through his clothes.

This is going to be scary. Pray for me. The boy doesn't throw anything away. He is emotionally attached to his holey socks. The last few times I have gone through his clothes and scrubbed down his room he was in Missouri at the farm.

Again. Pray for me.

I want to paint a door.

Actually, I would love it The Muffin painted the door. But I"m not going to push my luck. What I think I'll do is start painting the door and look pitiful. I can certainly paint the door myself. But there are other things on my list.

Like weeding out the flower beds and getting some stuff in the ground. I did not inherit my father's green thumb. I think my baby sister did. She also inherited my momma's art skills. I inherited poor eyesight and obsession.

I'm not bitter.

But back to that garden. I have a vision in my head for my front porch. We shall see if I can pull it off. If The Muffin paints that door for me, I might convince him to paint that wicker love seat a friend gave me.

Our front porch has potential. But we still have our Christmas flag flying outside, ya'll. I think it's time to update. I've got a Pinterest board dedicated to the subject of cozy porches. We'll see what I come up with.

Well. I think I've used the remainder of words for the day. I've got another murder mystery I'm reading. I can't stand going to be bed without knowing "who dun-it."

Do you have any projects waiting to be done?



Saturday, April 18, 2020

Today...

My morning began with a phone visit from my pulmonologist's office.

I could get to like these over the phone visits. I got to stay in my nightie. I didn't have to worry about traffic AND nobody asked me to get on a scale. 

The rest of my day was spent in a variety of ways. Some of them productive.

I did make a big ole list of goals. I was inspired to be more specific about said goals.

I am the kind of person who is highly adaptable. Makes me easy to live with and I generally don't fall into the depths of despair.

However, my adaptability also makes it easier to adapt to things that aren't so good for me.

I could elaborate a little more on Taco Bell and/or pie...but I won't.

So this morning, I jotted down a few things that I really, really....really needed to work on. Or wanted to work on.

My list isn't big. Honestly, I know better than that.

But there are a few dreams I have that aren't going to get done by themselves. I got to put a little pedal to the metal.

Today my list is simple.

Finish writing my contribution to the Homeschooling with Heart blog. You can read my article for April here.

Finish the post for our online church service.

Wash a load of clothes.

Make a coconut cake.

Finish that murder mystery.

Practice my crochet.

Tell The Muffin and The Boy that I love them.

Write something down that inspired me while I was in the shower (we all get our inspiration in different ways).

Are my goals too lofty for today? Probably not.

I am not out to cure cancer or rid the world of the Rona.

But I'm sure not going to waste my time whining.

At least, not today.

Be blessed, my friends.



Friday, April 10, 2020

Random (30 Day Blog Challenge)

It's Day 922 of my 30 Day Blog Post.

At this point all is anarchy.

Anarchy, I tell you! Why even bother sticking a scheduled writing plan when pandemics are on the loose?

You folks doing okay?

I feel like we are all living in some poorly written dystopian novel written for preteens.

Minus the zombies and the vampires.

Other than that mess, there are all sorts of cray cray happening.

Some of you have LOST YOUR MIND.

Don't try and tell me any differently. I see what you're posting on Facebook.

I, myself, have different ways of coping.

I may or may not have done some stress shopping at my favorite online boutique. I realize that I really don't have any place to wear some of this cute stuff. Though I did style a really cute pink and navy floral blouse the day before yesterday on my daily walk. I'm sure the neighbors were appreciative to see me in something more than my stretchy pants ensemble.

I may or may not have read too many murder mysteries. I refuse to read something perky. Makes me nauseous.

Yesterday, I participated in the use of Modge Podge. Yes, I did. I Modged Podged some paper mache eggs I had in my craft storage. THIS is exactly why I've hung on to all my craft supplies. I knew I would need all the things during a pandemic!

My most brilliant accomplishment has been to keep all these people feed. Josiah has been eating like he's an 18-year-old boy. Probably because he is an 18-year-old boy.

Sometimes you have to take the win where you can get it. Know what I mean?

I don't know what tomorrow is going to look like. Probably much like today...only with a different pair of stretchy pants. I would say that I am anticipating the day when everything goes back to normal, but then I might not appreciate what the present holds.


Monday, April 6, 2020

Day 963 (30 Day Blog Challenge)

It's Day 963 of my 30 Day Blog Challenge. I should have been finished a couple of weeks ago, but I got way off topic and way behind.

It happens.

And truthfully, I think I should be allowed a little grace. It is my blog. And it is the first time I've ever blogged during a pandemic.

I actually had a post about a thrift store haul scheduled.

Let's face it. I haven't been to a thrift store in a month.

I really, really miss the Goodwill, ya'll.

Sigh.

Currently, I am in the middle of printing something for Josiah to do for his schoolwork. I also made an impulse purchase of a creative writing notebook for him to go through. I plan on doing it with him. Though, frankly, my "to do" list is growing by the hour.

In about 33 minutes, I plan on walking out my backdoor and heading to the left...right around the block and back again.

I have no excuses. It is a bright sunshine day. The extra 524 pounds I have gained since moving to Indiana (you do realize I'm exaggerating) isn't coming off by wishing it away. I don't have any pressing appointments. Just a road, a busted up side-walk, and my tennis shoes.

I really struggled this weekend.

I'm sure many of you did, too.

I am generally an optimistic person. My optimism has kept me alive and kicking through many a dark day. But I also have to watch myself. Watch out that I don't sink into a gopher hole of too much news, and too many opinions.

It's hard to know. It's hard to understand. Unless you live under a rock or in a cave, this has affected you in some way.

More than myself...I worry about everyone else. Are my people taking care of themselves? Do they need someone to run and get something for them?

What is easy to do is to wrap myself up on the comfy couch and hunker down with a good book. But then my home suffers and I begin to smell like 2-week old hot dogs. It's all I can do to not eat my feelings. Last night I found a box of stale raisins.

What I should have had was a hot cup of tea and a good attitude.

Just being honest.

So I've made myself do all the things.

Wash the clothes. Mop the kitchen floor. Twice.  A pot of beans is in the crockpot and there is only a dirty coffee cup and spoon sitting in the sink.

Later on, after I've taken care of the people that live with me, I'll find time to dive into that murder mystery I have waiting for me beside the comfy couch.

I have plans this week to draw on my eyebrows and put on some lipgloss. It might even happen tomorrow.

Be safe, my friends.


Wednesday, April 1, 2020

My Best Advice (for homeschooling during a pandemic)


Crazy Feeling? Stressed? Homeschooling? Worried? I Gotchu!


Hi, my friends.

I do realize I am cutting into my regularly scheduled 30 Day Blog Challenge (I think this is Day 42). 

But I have heard your cries. Everywhere I turn on my Social Media accounts there are those of you who feel driven to drink (I personally am a teetotaler and have to rely on chocolate). Your “homeschooling” journey was suddenly thrust upon you. Not only do you now have to keep these people in your house ALIVE but you also have to school their little brains.

Some of you are doing so while continuing to work. Some of you struggling financially. Some of you just need adult interaction.

I am about to lay down some of my very best advice…EVAH.

I am not going to go into my own pitiful experiences. Just know that I understand. Sometimes life is HARD! 

But we have been homeschooling since my son began first grade and he is now a Senior. I also taught in my former life...most of my teaching experience has been with the Littles. I do have a few tricks. 

It always hasn't been an easy road. 


But we managed and I kept the boy alive. I can’t even imagine what it would be like to be a Sudden Homeschooler. At least, I planned for my trip down the long and windy path that is homeschooling. I got to read up, plan up, and pray up.

Just remember that none of this is normal. One good thing is that, basically, we are all in this together. We need to lift each other up. 

So here’s what I got for you.

·         Don’t beat yourself up. It’s okay to not have all the answers or feel like everything is under control. First of all, we have to let ourselves feel all the feelings. And remind ourselves that God wasn’t surprised. For one, think of this time as a way to fill your tank up and pour as much of yourself into your kids. Within reason, however. Some of us introverts can’t tolerate the peoples being around ALL THE TIME.

·         Don’t feel like you have to manage your “homeschool” like a traditional classroom. Homeschoolers “homeschool” a thousand different ways. Most of us don’t really spend a whole lot of time at home (at least that used to be the case). We were busy exploring, taking field trips, visiting art museums, hanging out at the library, playing sports, and blowing things up at our weekly co-op meetings. This staying home stuff is new for us too. The point is though is that you are not going to be able to duplicate the traditional classroom experience at home. Unless somebody wants to try and make me some of those cinnamon rolls my elementary school cafeteria used to serve. Then I’m all about the whole school experience.

·         A routine is important. Even if it is a really laid-back routine. Most kids thrive on routines. This might look like a certain time to wake up in the morning, followed by a list of self-care tasks. After breakfast, you could schedule “schooltime” with plenty of breaks built in. There is no reason why your kiddos should be doing school all day.  If you struggle with a kiddo who is a “piddler” try using a timer. Works wonders. 


·         Take some time in your schedule to get some fresh air. Even if it is for a 5-minute nature scavenger hunt in the front yard. That fresh air does a body good. We lived in an apartment for quite a few years. We also didn’t live in a very safe neighborhood. My son used to stand out on the balcony and entertain the neighbors coming home from work. We also grew a few tomato plants on that same balcony. You do what you can.

·         Make a list of read alouds for you and your kids to read together. We have always scheduled our read alouds for after lunch. I will make a treat and we will enjoy hot tea or hot chocolate. Let your kids do something quiet while you read. Legos, playdough, drawing. Just no sleeping. I let Audio Books do a lot of the work for me. I do have a post of some of my favorites here.

·          Establish some time moving each day. I have some printable cards on my blog called “Brain Breaks.” Any time you think your people need a break, have somebody draw one of these cards. You can also surprise them with an impromptu dance party.

·         Help stimulate an Attitude of Gratitude. Develop a habit of listing your blessings. Talk to your kids about what they are grateful for. Make a daily list and keep track.

·         Did you know that play is cathartic?  When I was a younger teacher, there was a program for at-risk preschoolers that revolved around play. The idea was that these kids had little opportunity to just "play." At home, they might have to worry about being hungry, being in a dangerous situation, or have little to play with.  There is something very healing and therapeutic about free play. You don’t have to initiate or come up with creative activities. Just let them play. If you are overwhelmed with the sheer amount of mess that free play might cause, only allow out a certain amount of toys at a time. Your kiddo doesn’t need the Legos, and the building blocks, and the Playdough out at the same time. Sometimes they don’t need as much stimulation as you think they do. I will try and post my very FAVORITE playdough recipe sometimes this week. 


·          Cooking is a very educational activity. There are so many skills to learn while cooking. Don’t discount what you are teaching your kids simply by having them help you prepare a meal. There are many homeschoolers across the universe that add the simple task of having their kids help cook to their "Home Ec" course of study. Next, you could do a course in the proper way to fold towels. Amen and Amen.

·         Don’t worry about trying to do it all. Just focus on what your child’s teacher requires. Hopefully, you will have a bit more time to assist your student if extra help is required. Fill in those days at home with extra play, plenty of books and encourage your kids to express their creativity. We are working through some easy Youtube drawing lessons. It doesn't have to be fancy. 


·         Your child might not know how to entertain him or herself. He or she is used to being guided and directed during their school hours. Sometimes they think they require stimulation and direction. We never have had this issue. However, I see all kinds of lists floating around during the summertime. If your child is struggling with “boredom” consider creating an activity list or jar as potential ideas for them to follow.

·          One of my secret weapons when I taught was peaceful classical music. I piped it into my classroom most days. I continued when I started homeschooling. In fact, I have some playing right now. You will be surprised how it stimulates the brain but calms the soul.

·         Another secret weapon is my sophisticated planner called the Spiral Notebook. I do have a simple planner with a calendar that I jot down appointments and “whatnot.” But the Spiral Notebook is what I use to make lists, make goals, meal plans AND Josiah has his very own for his list of chores and school assignments. That way there is no confusion.


·         Establish “Quiet Time.” Everyone needs some time during the day when they can refocus and regroup. Some might require naps. You could also encourage free reading or if you are like us we like to spend this time watching a documentary. Nothing says “quiet time” like the adventures of scientists living in the white vastness of Antarctica.

·          Make your meals simple. You don’t have to grind your own wheat and churn your own butter. I realize that this is the image that many have of “homeschooling.” We have made our own butter as part of an activity but I did that when I was teaching too. Most days I offer the same few things for breakfast and then a few different things for lunch every week. I do try and stay away from sugary cereal. You probably understand why. I went and saw a lecture from Temple Grandin one time. She said to feed your kids eggs and bacon. I try and take her advice. Many suppers are started in the morning in my crockpot. We do “you get what you get and you don’t throw a fit” in our homeschool. I guarantee your kids have heard that little ditty at school. The one thing you can do to make your meals memorable is to use your good china and have the kids set the table. Even canned soup looks special in a china bowl. 

·         Establish some self-care routines. You have to do it. You must be getting rest. You must be filling your body with good foods and plenty of fluids. I am in a couple of the high-risk categories for the coronavirus. It is important that I keep doing what I know to do. It has also been helpful for me to limit my views of the news and social media. Everybody is going nuts! If I spend my days and hours following all the Corona rabbit trails…let’s just say it’s not good. I personally love long hot baths, hot cups of tea, books, a little crocheting. We all have to have ways to practice self-comfort.

·          We are all struggling to remain on our best behavior. I have had my fair share of crying jags. And I’m an introvert! I don’t need to see people all the days of my life. but all of this is just so UNREAL! It’s important we give each other grace. Practice reacting in a way that will not bring shame to your household, your children and your children’s children. What you writes on the internets stays on the internets. 


·         Find a way to encourage your children to be a helper and an encourager. Even if it is to make cards for those who work at your local hospital or the seniors from your church. It’s hard to feel helpless. Being kind goes a long way.

·         Some of you will thrive during this time. You will grab the pandemic bull by the horns and get all the things done. Most of us will be lucky to make it through the morning without tearing up the house for at least one stale M&M. I have been known to hide in the bathroom. Don’t think about the long term. Take your day in chunks. Manage those chunks of time and worry about the rest as it comes. As Scarlett O’Hara says, “Tomorrow is another day…”

Scarlett knows what she’s talking about.


 If you have any questions or just need to vent...I'm your girl. Take care! 



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