Feeding His Lambs: Being Responsible for leading ALL Children to Jesus

Day 30 - Fathers and Mothers Devotion | The New Bible.com
Each day I read the bible (or something like it). By going to youversion.com, and doing the devotional titled, "Father's and mother's devotion," I reached day 30 today and it talked about how Jesus was talking to Peter in John 21, and Jesus says, "Peter, do you love me more than these?" and Peter replies, "Yes Lord, you know that I love you." and Jesus replied, "Then feed my Lambs." To Me, this showed the importance of pouring our love for Jesus out by "feeding" each other. I was relating this to the reading and if you click on the link above at the very top, and sign up you can do the whole devotion. Or I'll copy the part that went to this to help you understand what I mean when I'm discussing this.
This is what the devotional to that verse in John 21 said:

It Takes a Village: Feed My Lambs
"Ora na azu nwa"--Nigerian Igbo proverb.
Some of you who are single or married without children may be thinking, “Well, this whole parenting thing is for somebody else.” Not true. The African proverb is right--it really does take a village to raise a child.
You may not have a child but are connected by blood, marriage, and faith to many young ones. God considers you a key part of the discipling process. Parents are often exhausted and overwhelmed by the day-to-day care of their children. They need and welcome as many Jesus-loving, hug-giving adults in their lives as possible.
After his triumphant resurrection, Jesus commissioned believers to feel a sense of communal responsibility for children. He told his main man Peter, 'Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?’ ‘Yes, Lord’, he said, ‘you know that I love you.’ Jesus said, ‘Feed my lambs” (John 21:15).
Whether you’re an auntie or uncle, a Sunday school teacher or a neighbor, a community or church volunteer, a coach or a teacher, Jesus is thrilled that you are willing to be part of his village, thrilled that you place such high value on his little people, thrilled that you are helping to feed his lambs."

This is very true. I believe 100% that Kids DO need as many "Jesus-Loving, hug-giving adults in their lives as possible. For many reasons. of course, to be Fed, but also, To be Loved so they learn to Love. All the 10 commandments are followed by doing TWO things. 1. Loving God Above everyone and everything with all your heart, and 2. Loving Your Neighbor as yourself. We must teach them to Love, not only by emotion, but importantly by action. I believe that when Jesus said to Peter, "Feed my Lambs," he was showing that WE ALL, as Jesus' followers are responsible to look after each other, including each other's children. By doing so we are also following some of his other teachings. We are responsible to feed His lambs. We each have a purpose, but this is a very special one. By feeding His "Lambs" we are following his teaching that we are to keep children innocent. We are to be like kids. Jesus says that if we are not like children we will NOT enter the Kingdom. In Matthew 19:13-15, People brought children to Jesus for him to Place his hands on them and pray for them. These people were rebuked by the disciples because in their minds, Jesus was much too busy to be bothered with some kids. But Jesus made it known: "Bring the children to me and do NOT hinder them. For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these." Then he placed his hands on them and prayed. This TINY passage goes with this reading. We are to BRING children to Jesus' Kingdom and not hinder them from coming. how do we do this?  We Do this by following his teaching to Peter. We feed the Lambs and BAM! It's a domino effect. We are responsible for using our gifts to get to children, our own, our neighbor kids, nieces, nephews, and younger siblings, and feeding them spiritual knowledge. Feeding them love. Feeding them the Word of God. Feeding them kindness, gentleness, and EVERY ounce of Jesus we can. Once The Children are fed, once we have "Fed His Lambs," then we will learn to notice, learn to act like, learn to believe like a "lamb." Once we play with the children, teach them, get to know them, we will then, By Feeding them, learn how to get into Heaven. By being with a child and becoming child like, Jesus tells us that "The Kingdom of Heaven belongs to Such As These." So, we are not only responsible to feed the Lambs, but to become like them. How? BELIEF. Innocence. Children believe us adults out of faith, out of being unable to do much without us, by relying on us. They are so innocent that they have no choice but to believe we will feed them, we will cloth them, give them all they need because through their innocence, they are required to believe us, trust us, and have a strong desire to be like us. Why? Didn't your parent's ever say not to feed the stray cat? Once you feed it, the cat TRUSTS you'll always feed it, care for it, as do Children. We feed the Lambs, And once we feed His Lambs, we will learn to embrace that innocence of a child and enter the Kingdom. We will learn to just accept as a child does that Jesus will be sure our needs are met, and we will enter the Kingdom. They Accept what we tell them, as we need to Be "such as these" and believe what Jesus says. Don't be a "Thomas," who was low in his faith and had to see the sores in Jesus' hands To believe it was the Lord, Thomas had to have it proven to him, he wasn't innocent as a child and didn't just accept it, Jesus showed him his sores where the nails were THEN he believed, don't be like Thomas. But instead, Feed His Lambs His knowledge, God's Word, and in the process, learn to Be as a Lamb and eat Jesus' Knowledge as a child: Innocently, acceptingly, and most importantly with Faith and Strong Belief that what he says is true. As a Child (Lamb) eats the knowledge we read them and teach them of the word, we need to be such as those and eat the same knowledge we are feeding.
So, Always stay alert and Feed His Lambs. Then Become A Lamb yourself.
xoxox,
 Megs

STRESS RELIEF: EVERYONE NEEDS it sometime

         This is a very helpful relaxation video I used today. Everyone needs some relaxation once in a while, and there are many for free on You Tube. Lately I have been doing these relaxation techniques and I notice how much calmer I feel. Let's face it, life is stressful. Though I LOVE my kids, they can do things that I allow my self to get stressed over. I have an anxiety issue that I've had since I've been a child so therefore, I had to find HEALTHY ways to cope with it. Sure my prescription of "nerve pills" is helpful, but is it really? It helps for the time being but when it wares off my stress and anxieties are still there. So, I turned to this recently. Because clearing my mind, letting go of stress, and allowing myself to calm down really puts a reality on stillness that is so needed in life. So, try this out if you never have. Try this out if you never  feel quiet, take ten fifteen minutes for yourself. Especially being a parent it's important because we need to learn to quiet our minds or calm down at the drop of a dime. Give it a go, and if it works let me know. If you don't have 18 minutes and 36 seconds for this one like I said, there are shorter ones out there. that last as little as 5 minutes. If it comes down to do this or flip out....take the time. Not into meditation, what are some other useful techniques you use for stress? Ive done guided immagry, running, exercise, and just flat out took a nap. What do you do?
xoxo

Megs

TIME TO START CHRISTMAS SHOPPING PART 2 KIDS

Okay so, I have done a part one on Christmas Shopping. I so far have a gift for 18/22 people on my list COMPLETED for Christmas and that is something to be proud about having accomplished this by last week which was. But my Kids, they are more extreme to shop for, especially our own. I have come across some websites that are new to me that I have started using that I'm about to share, I have some ideas for low cost, home made, handmade, personalized, and low cost gifts for just kids. So here are some very helpful tips I was taught, picked up or learned throughout the years.

Okay. FIRST THINGS FIRST: KIDS

ONLINE SHOPPING FOR CHILDREN



• As you know I was a skeptic turned huge fan of Amazon. The economy today doesn't leave much room for spending $5, $2, $6, $9, or even $0.75 extra on a gift if Amazon is able to search the SAME gifts from DIFFERENT stores at different prices, saving a few bucks here and there. EVERY PENNY COUNTS DURING THE HOLIDAYS TO AVOID DEPRESSION, AND AVOIDING DEPRESSION GIVES ONE THE REASON TO ENJOY THE SEASON: FAMILY, FRIENDS, LOVE, AND THE BIRTH OF JESUS. No need to say what we've all said ONCE at least, "I can't wait until Christmas is over!" Avoid it using every resource available. Click on the right side of the blog here to check out SAVINGS and GIFT ideas that are brought to your door. If you are one of those people who doesn't put credit cards online, that's fine, you'd still save money buying a prepaid credit card which doesn't require any personal information and can be purchased at your bank, grocery store, or drug store. (ALSO MAKE GREAT GIFTS). OR to avoid the WHOLE credit card or checking acct issue, then buy an AMAZON GIFT CARD, sold at the same stores, and pay with it. You can then chose to have it gift wrapped and sent to the person, or sent to your home. Christmas of 2011 I did ALL shopping on AMAZON. DIDNT ever leave the house.
• Next, I found a website GREAT for gifts of every holiday and reward in a magazine: Women's Day. ~This one can be used for your own kid/grandkid/etc. or a child you know little about. It's a Web Site you can get to by clicking this link named: The Toy Insider Guide: For the hottest toys of the season . It just lists toys well known, and little known of that are great for all kids.
• Remember all those GREAT toys from your childhood, or looking for either a specific or special toy for a child? Try this Web Site: The Land of Nod . I enjoy this site because the gifts are unique and if you sign up for their email, then you get coupon codes as well as special offers.  And as I will FOREVER and ALWAYS mention that making your own gifts is the best, and shows time and love as well as saves money, the Land of Nod also has a blog with some interesting things they call, "Tips, quips and tricks." on their blog that gave me some ideas for some DIY gifts. It's at this site: HONEST TO NOD.

 

SPECIAL HANDMADE GIFTS FOR CHILDREN

• I find a home made gift one that means more as children grow. It's also especially special if you can get one or more siblings in the mix of making a Do It Your Self gift, because they will STRESS how special it is.  Last year I did some sewing for my children. I went and picked out two fabrics per child, some stuffing and made a pillow per child. NOT JUST ANY PILLOW. I made fleece on one side, regular cloth on the other, and put a patch of the regular cotton cloth on the fleece side, making a nice pocket for them to place books, Diaries, E readers, ETC. So you have a pillow with fabric that matches their personality, and EVERYONE loves doing things they shouldn't once in a while, right? So in that pocket I also gave them a SHARPIE PERMANANT MARKER. This was because the pocket was intended for books~regular, chapter, or E books. And when they were done reading this stuff, they could write the name of book, and date. Like a book journal on a pillow. My youngest daughter still loves hers.
• 

  Have you heard of "Quiet Books?" They are books which are made of felt and are real unique, not just another reading book, but a book with activities to keep the kids quiet, entertained, and imaginative. I'm going to share two from one of my best loved ideas I found from a blog named: SUNSHINE, LOLLIPOPS AND RAINBOWS.  A HUGE plus, not only do kids like them, they are easy to make, and last a life time, BUT this blog SHARES the templates/patterns you need to make them. For free. That's right, free templates to a one of a kind kids book. (If you make one, as I'm going to, make it your own, add your own few touches and share it with the bloggers. FIRST QUIET BOOK: Kids of all ages like MR. POTATOE HEAD. I would make one for all my children ranging from ages 2-10 and when you see it, and see how easy it is, you'll fall in love as I did. If you're not an expert sewer, so what, neither am I, and you don't have to sew you COULD use fabric glue, right??? :) Here is my most favorite, click the link it will take you to the blog that has the templates; Mr.Potatoe Head Quiet Book and I'm sure your little one, tween, teen, or even older children like me at 29 will love getting this. The next one I'm sharing is getting made for my 2 year old son. He I obsessed and LOVES cars. It's great for the car in my opinion, Junior can sit in his car seat with his quiet book, being quiet, driving. Being a back seat driver while daddy drives up front. To get to this blog's pattern for the car and roads quiet book: Car page Quiet Book . These are just TWO of my favorite quiet books, and there are many more. Just be sure to check out the whole Blog: THE WHOLE BLOG~ "SUNSHINE, RAINBOWS,AND LOLLIPOPS" they are quite creative.
• 

  Ok not a fan of sewing, not a fan of felt books, or looking for something else to do? Then here is an idea that I recently made my kids for their walls. I received two metal trays from a yard sale for a total of $0.15 each. I then made my 6 year old PINK Chalkboard paint, and my 2 year had his chalkboard paint done in blue. So, step 1 find old metal trays (I used decorative trays, but you could use old metal trays from TV dinner stands, old metal serving trays, I'll show an example picture, as long as it's metal it'll work). We made these as a craft/home made gift for my son's 2nd birthday this past October 4th, and of course the sibling helping needed her own, so she got it. Any way we took acrylic paint, mixed it with unsanded grout until it was the consistency of thick pancake batter, painted over the beautifully decorated trays, let it dry and hung them on the wall. They now had a magnet tray AND a chalk board to hang on their wall in one.
• My all time FAVORITE BLOG is called A Beautiful Mess, just like ME! So, these are two sisters that do crafts, home décor, photography, fashion, beauty, and recipes ALL year long. They also taught me to make my chalk board paint I made for the last project I listed ^above^ , however I believe it's important for kids to have a creative journal at all ages. That is a great way to let them outlet their feelings, thoughts, fears, happiness, and be okay with it. Now this blog has a TON of DIY ideas, but my favorite journal for kids is made little, but special. I put stickers and used different sorts of craft and cardstock papers for my daughter's. But check this easy to pack in your purse, your son's back pack, a diaper bag, your daughter's purse, etc., It's called a Mini Magazine Notebook. Click on the link to check it out. (this would make a good gift for an adult who doesn't remember well or who's always taking notes too) The DIY Mini Magazine Journal. For more gifts like more types of journals and scrapbooks, as well as  textile printing, phone cases, sewing for beginners, DIY decorating for your kid's room/toy room/and the rest, and most importantly at the bottom of this next link the DO IT YOURSELF KIDDO, with a bunch of ideas for kiddies. Here's the link to their DIY crafts: DIY Crafts~Choose a gift for ANYONE in the family, there is EVERYTHING! And if you want to see what's newest, and start at the main page of the blog, get to know about Elsie and Emma and how they are so creative, then you can chose your categories for a gift by going to: A Beautiful Mess Blog, Everything creative
• FINALLY FOR NOW: Who has better, and more perfect ideas than Martha Stewart? Well in my opinion it's the Beautiful mess blog, BUT I stopped by and checked out some of Martha's things. I think that you could make a gift for a kid of ANY age with her help. There are gifts in a jar, gifts kids can make, gifts for book lovers, bath and spa gifts, stocking stuffers, pet gifts and even MORE! So, here is the link to get Christmas Crafting: Home Made Christmas Gifts, How to with Martha Stewart . There will be something FOR everyone to be able to make and something FOR everyone to LOVE.

Well I KNOW this has been a long list, a lot of information, and a LOAD of links to check out, but I'm confident you'll get your "shopping" done early and find the right gift for everyone you look for just by looking at these links. REMEMBER: last minute shopping=stress and regret and dread. So Stress, Regret, and Dread=RESENTMENT. AND Resentment of having to shop for the Holidays=not enjoying the reason for the season: Celebrating the Birth of Jesus, and sharing with family. Not just toys to kids gifts to others BUT love, togetherness, and happiness.

Look out for my FINAL and Part 3 of Christmas shopping for ADULTS.

xoxo happy shopping and crafting~

Megs

TIME TO START CHRISTMAS SHOPPING Part 1

So, it's that time again. Fall. And what's right around the corner? That's right. Christmas. And what's worse than last minute shopping? Not a whole lot. Last minute shopping comes with too many emotions: fear, dread, anger, remorse, and the ever hated regret and resentment.
Christmas for my family is a time to celebrate. Not just celebrate getting and giving, but to celebrate being together, and most importantly the Birth of Jesus. So, why allow Christmas to steal your cheer, as it has mine so many times?
Don't. I stopped this mess a long time ago. This is what I do. Around now, mid October I log on to Amazon.com. No You don't have to shop there (though it's a good way to avoid the rush at holidays), but it will help organize the things you must buy for Christmas. Espescially if you are like me and have more than one school age child or younger. I have to date a 2 year old boy, and 6, 8 and 9 year old girls, with one more bundle coming the end of March (sex is unknown). So, what I do is start watching the comercials. And you WILL see plenty of them. Our TV is rarely on anything BUT Nick Jr., or Disney Channel so of course I see plenty of toy comercials. You'll hear your kids saying the occasional, "Wow!" or "EW I want/need THAT!" and take note. Even my 2 year old sees toys and says, "ME!" And I say, "Oh do you want that?" And he replys with a smile, and an, "KAY!"-As he has not yet mastered "yes" as a way of responding but replaces it with "Kay."
I will then write them down and when I get a moment, I'll log into Amazon.com, and look up the toys and if they are worth it or interesting, I'll add it to my WISH LIST. This is a free service AMAZON offers so you can be notified if the price goes down, or up, and when it goes down, I order it, and avoid the Christmas rush. Here is one of my Just started lists for 2013. Click on it and it shows the price and the toy, and if you are buying for multiple people like myself, you can write notes as to who its for, or where it's going on sale, and even print your list and take it to the store. Check it out, make your own, whatever.

Sample Christmas Wish List

Next step: Buying for adults. My kids are in many programs, Bible Study, Girl Scouts, the Gifted Program, SCHOOL. So, I always have access to fundraisers. Though most things are expensive, you can stock up on things this way for adults. Ever have Christmas dinner and someone show up you do not have a gift for? Me too. This will help you not only buy for those adults you have on your list, but you can also have a few extra gifts "just incase." This year I took advantage of my oldest daughter's gifted program by ordering mason jar candles for only $8 each for adults. I also hit my youngest daughters Girl Scout Nut and Magazine sale, got each kid a magazine subscription for Christmas, but also bought 10 cans and jars of nuts because they are great adult Christmas gifts that are priced at $5-$8. This helps kid's activities and you at Christmas, as they ALWAYS come by November.
Finally, I visit the Dollar store regularly. The reason is, everything is $1 and there are SO many awesome stocking stuffers for the kids, and great containers to stuff home baked cookies in for gifts to friends, family and neighbors.
This is just a quick note on How to Jump Ahead On Christmas Shopping by Starting in the FALL. Shopping early means less stress and more time for family and to enjoy the meaning of Christmas.
Look for part 2.
xoxo
Megs

GREAT DEALS ON STUFF MADE BY HIPPIE HEMP AND SUCH (my family's store)

HEY OVER THERE>>>>>>>>>> IT SAYS "I SELL ON ETSY. JUST SO YOU KNOW THAT MEANS YOU GET A DISCOUNT JUST FOR READING THIS. WHEN YOU GET TO THE CHECK OUT MAKE SURE YOU ENTER COUPON CODE HEMP10 AND RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR TOTAL ORDER. EVEN BETTER NEWS: TONIGHT I SPENT ALL NIGHT AWAKE TAKING PHOTOS AND MEASUREMENTS OF MY ANTIQUES, JEWELRY, AND PAINTINGS IN ORDER TO POST THEM SO YOU'LL HAVE A GREAT VARIETY OF THINGS TO CHOSE FROM. THE GRAND OPENING IS BEING SET FOR SEPTEMBER 3RD BUT HEAD THERE NOW>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>    CLICK ON THE ETSY ICON AND IT WILL TAKE YOU TO MY STORE. EVEN BETTER NEWS, AFTER YOUR FIRST ORDER, YOU'LL GET A SECOND COUPON CODE SENT TO YOU THAT WILL GIVE YOU 25% OFF OF YOU SECOND ORDER AT MY SHOP! THAT WILL GIVE YOU A CHANCE TO ORDER ONE OF A KIND ITEMS, ANTIQUES, OR SPECIALTY ITEMS NOW FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON SO YOU WILL NOT GET STUCK SHOPPING ON BLACK FRIDAY....ok we all like it and complain about it.  :)  ANYWAY, CHECK OUT MY STORE, AND IF YOU WATCH THIS BLOG CLOSELY, I WILL BE POSTING FREE GIVEAWAYS RANDOMLY. NO YOU DON'T NEED TO STARE AT THE COMPUTER ALL DAY, IT WILL BE FOR A BLOCK OF TIME. FOR INSTANCE:  IF I WERE DOING IT NOW I'D SAY YOU HAVE UNTIL SEPTEMBER FIRST TO ORDER.
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING MY BLOG
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR FAMILY STORE
AND THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU, BECAUSE WE ARE ALL SPECIAL.
xoxoxox
megs.
I HAVE A SURPRISE FOR YOU, I HAVE BEEN APPROVED TO SHARE SOME COUPON CODES AND A FEW GIVE-AWAY FROM WELL KNOWN STORES AND WEBSITES. SO THIS WEEK, NEXT WEEK, ALL MONTH, ALL YEAR, KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN FOR COUPON, FREEBIE, AND SWEEPSTAKE TAGS.  
FEEL FREE TO EMAIL ME AT: hippiehempandsuch@gmail.com IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, OR RUN YOUR OWN STORE AND WOULD LIKE IT TO BE PROMOTED. 

PARENTS: Better Safe Than Sorry, DO YOUR HOME WORK!

EVERYDAY I pick up the news paper. EVERYDAY-give or take one or two a week there is someone in the paper for Child Molestation!!! As a mother, a Christian, and a HUMAN BEING, I can't imagine what, why or how someone could take the innocence of our children and not see anything wrong with it. It is amazing. The people I know-(I know a lot of people), are always bringing this subject up as well. I was reading up on it, to try to understand it and although I CAN'T grasp it, I did learn a bunch. I found out that a child molester is most likely someone who knows our kids. A family member, a neighbor, and often at one point even our priests.
Although we can not stop it from happening, we can lessen the chances of it happening. If it did happen we can stop it from continuing.

1.  Do your homework. There are 47 sexually violent predators and a total of 53 people on Megan's law within a 25 mile radius from my home. I showed my daughter photos of the ones who lived within 2-3 miles, and explained if she sees them not to talk to them. I KNOW people change. But, these are our kids. I'm not taking any chances.
2. Do your homework. If your child shows the warning signs as listed below, talk to your child. You can easily say, "You are not in trouble, and have done nothing wrong. Did somebody touch you in your private areas in a way they shouldn't."
3. Do your homework. Check Megan's Law to keep you and your children aware of anyone who has harmed children in the past. They show photographs of the predator every six months at least.
4. Do your homework. Look for warning signs.

•  Extreme fear of someone shown by your child. Your child may not know that something wrong has happened, but they may lose interest in being around the predator, or show anxiety when they are mentioned.They may even break down emotionally or throw an unusual fit when they know they will be around the predator.
• Loss of interest in playing with friends, and doing activities that they normally love to do. They may even lose interest in school, refusing to attend.
• Shame: a child could suddenly become over obsessed with their body in either negative or positive ways. Normally, it's negative. They may even state that their body is hurt, bad, or not good anymore. 
• Unfortunately a child who has been hurt in this way is exposed to sex before they should be. So of course, they may talk about it, when you as the parent may not have brought it up yet. The child may even introduce sex into play with dolls, figurines, or even friends.
• Behavior changes. Since children have trouble expressing how they feel, they may channel their anger or hurt into acting out. They may end up with a behavior issue, where as before they didn't have one. They may even channel this anger towards other people, even those they love most because they aren't sure how else to say they are hurting, angry, mad, confused, or any emotion for that matter.
• PHYSICAL CLUES: Don't make a huge issue of it at first, because these signs don't mean your child has been hurt FOR SURE in this manner. Do a physical examination. Watch your child. Does it hurt when they sit down, are they having trouble pooping or peeing, wetting the bed unusually, swelling and or bruises in the vaginal area, redness or blood.
• Loss of sleep: Child wakes more than normal, is suddenly afraid of the dark or has more nightmares than usual. Your child may ask for a light when they did sleep in the dark.

I was astounded at the amount of people in my hometown-small home town who are child predators. you can check your hometown, or a specific person by clicking on this  link:
Megan's Law Registry for The United States of America 
So parents, do your homework and don't be afraid to discuss this with children. Child abuse is on the rise. If your child, your child's friend or someone you know is being harmed, or you have a suspicion that someone is hurting a child, sexual, physical, mentally, or emotionally, don't let it continue. YOU alone make a difference. Call the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A CHILD (1-800-422-4453) where there are counselors available 24/7/365. Or click this link, and once you are there click on the purple tab that says "GET HELP" for more information on this service. Here's the link: Find resources, information, statistics, stories, or get involved by helping, even if you don't know anyone who's been harmed.
I hope you found help, or will now use this knowledge, as I will to help children in the future or present.

xoxoxox
Megs

10 Tips for Praying as a Couple, Christian Engagement, Newlywed Couples

10 Tips for Praying as a Couple, Christian Engagement, Newlywed Couples

I FOUND THIS SITE TODAY. IT HAS EVERYTHING I NEEDED TO HEAR, AND I GOT SOME ADVICE ON MAKING A STRONGER MARRIAGE. I WILL SAY CHRIS AND I DO PRAY TOGETHER. THE FAMILY THAT PRAYS TOGETHER STAYS TOGETHER. IT IS COMFORTING KNOWING THAT I HAVE A HUSBAND THAT IS WILLING TO PRAY FOR ME INSTEAD OF POINT A FINGER AT ME. ITS COMFORTING WHEN WE TAKE TURNS PRAYING TOGETHER AND WE TAKE THE WORDS OUT OF EACH OTHERS MOUTH OR WE ARE ABLE TO SEE HOW EACH OTHER ARE GROWING IN CHRIST. p.s. this pic is not of Chris and I. It's from the website.

Cleaning tips and 11 awesome DIY outfits for summer

Cleaning tips that will blow your mind, DIY outfits for summer

 I found this site, it has cool DIY cleaning products like how to clean glass and mirrors with shave cream, remove stains with bread, neutralize odors with Vodka,
They also show you so many cool ways to make AWESOME HOT clothing from T Shirts.
I recommenced it.
xoxox
Megs

FREE PAINT!!! MOMMA LOVES FREEBIES!

Free Paint at Ace Hardware (8/3)   

SO, surfing the web I got onto this freebie site. And most of them stink. Meaning that the items aren't free, there's some catch to getting said free items or it's stuff that a normal person wouldn't want (a.k.a products companies couldn't sell so they have to GIVE them away). We need to paint our shelves, so, I was looking at paint samples, and paint websites and getting ideas for painting the 4 tier shelf backs different colors. That's how I ran across an advertisement for "free paint." I thought, "humm wonder how much I have to buy first." Well, one click of my mouse and I found my answer, NONE. I printed the coupon. You can get one quart of paint (perfect for small jobs or to have around for arts & crafts). So, bottom line: you  can get one quart of Clark + Kensington Flat Enamel primary tint base(and it includes tinting to most colors)  at ACE HARDWARE but ONLY on Saturday, August 3rd 2013. So, hurry hurry get your coupon. BONUS: GET THE FREE PAINT AND YOU ARE AUTOMATICALLY ENTERED TO WIN 1 OF 10 $1,000 ACE GIFT CARDS AND A PERSONALIZED PAINT COLOR RECOMMENDATION. >>>>Rumor has it that they are doing this again on Saturday August 10th 2013 as well. That's a rumor so I'd just do it now for sure. CLICK THE ABOVE LINK.

 ******If you missed out on this offer STILL click the link, as it takes you to a REAL FREEBIE website with great offers.*******

IMPORTANCE OF GETTING YOUR KIDS TO JOURNAL/SCRAPBOOK

     When I was in school, I hated creative writing. As I got older, I found that keeping a sort of journal/scrap book helped me. Several reasons. As I get older I can always look back and see how much I have grown, or how things in life changed. Being able to visualize the change, see it on paper, brings reality for an adult/teen to see that yeah times get hard, but "will this problem matter 10 days from now, a year, ten years?" Usually It won't but it's hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

     My youngest daughter is 6. She was having some issues sleeping, and some feelings about life a 6 year old shouldn't know about I wouldn't think (no body likes me, everyone wants me to be unhappy). I made her a journal out of an old cook book(you can see it on this blog by clicking here>>> homemade cook book journal. DIY journal art "cook book" journal ). This also gave us the chance to be creative together putting it together. However, when she is having a bad day, sometimes I give her a "time out." Not as in she's in trouble, but as in "Princess, you're getting mouthy, you are not listening, please take time out and go write in your journal. Or draw a picture of how you are feeling." 9/10 times it works. I feel doing this is giving her a head start in expressing her feelings, and NAMING her feelings~which is hard for adults let alone kids. They think they feel either happy, angry, mad or sad. But there are so many more emotions. When she comes out she is so much more happier from writing, drawing or even pasting photos, cut outs, or other memorabilila in her SPECIAL journal. 

    When she comes at me with a, "mom I don't know what to write." I give her ideas off the top of my head. Here is a quick list of ideas.

• What is your biggest dream come true.
• What do you want to be when you grow up, and how will it help other people.
• Name three things you would like to know about your family or family members.
• Make a "bucket list" or list of things you'd like to do on the next rainy day. Then every rainy day, go back and check them off as you do them.
• Write about your hero, who it is, why they are your hero, what things have they done that you would like to do too someday.
• If animals could talk what animals would you want to talk to, and why?
• Describe your dream vacatoin.

There are so many more ideas, but there is always something that the kids can write about a few times a week. Again, this will prove helpful during hard times they can look back at their las "hard time" and see how quickly it went away. Skills for identifying emotions are important. How can we fix negative feelings or celebrate positive ones if we are stuck with 4 feelings~happy,sad,angry,mad? I found giving a description or list of feelings when my daughter gets her "time outs" to journal, helps her to use more than one feeling. Especially for a 6 year old, it's best to have pictures and names below them to help her spell them. I am able to then ask her how she felt and explain the meaning. This is great for vocabulary.
  I hope that parents find this helpful for children with nightmares, behavior problems, emotional issues, boredom, or to even use it as a family "night" making journals, and/or decorating them and/or writing in them. 
   No matter what your child does, if they show effort it's important to notice outloud to the child their efforts and accomplishments. This will build self-esteem in the end. How do I know? I once was a child who couldn't express emotions. I had no outlet when i was upset. I was bored as an only child. As I started writing, and my parents commented on my writings, I then moved from loose leaf paper to putting them in a scrap book, and eventually buying a journal with birthday money at the age of 8. My progress in writing helped me to become a fast reader, and enabled my self-esteem to grow.
  Try it out. I recommend it and so does my 6 year old daughter, along with MANY teachers, parenting experts and Psychologists.
Here is an example of some emotions or a chart you could use:

There are plenty of websites that offer these charts, as well as charts thruout the day. Here are a few links.

• Feeling journal for kids with chart
• feeling and behavior charts for FREE
• "Name It to Tame it" Feeling charts for children

Hope you parents, or journal fanatics like myself or teachers found this helpful. I do. Any questions or coments, Feel free to give them as you please.
xoxo~ Megs

PARENTING LESSONS GIVEN FROM A LOST MOTHER MOLE

WELL Yesterday when my husband was taking JR to mow the yard with our tractor, he found that SOMETHING had built a nest in the engine. Not only had it built a nest but "it" was gone and left 2 little babies that were no more than one inch big with NO hair, and their Eyes are yet to be opened. He pulled them out and made the mistake of showing them to me. He said 'throw them over in the woods, they are going to die.' I belive in FATE and think HE found them for a reason. So I did not listen to him. I warmed up a rag in the microwave and got it hot. I put it in an old LARGE coffee container, put a cloth over it and put them on top of each other to keep them safe and warm. I have been feeding them with a medicine dropper and milk. It's hard because they can't latch on. One eats and one doesn't. They are honestly as small as my pinkie finger. My husband called them Mice. I know from being a CHILD mice lover that they were not. I had 7 litters of mice when my pets had families. Come to find out they are baby Moles. And Moles are usually ugly to me. But now that I'm taking care of them, they are beautiful. I feel like I'm doing God's Will since I have kept them alive over 24 hours. I am in a hurry tonight so haven't snapped a pic yet. BUT this is the CLOSEST pic I could find online. Now mine are hairless and their eyes are closed but other than that they do not look like moles yet. They look cute.Neither of them have ANY distinguishing marks so we can't name them. It's sad, they are wild animals and I am keeping them alive as long as I can to the best of my ability. BUT what do I do when they are old enough to leave my nest~if God is willing they live that long without a REAL mother? I will be sad, and hope that I'm able to give them skills needed to find food on their own. I don't even know how old they need to be. I have real researching to do. :) However, I wanted to share the mirical of life. As a mother of 4, I think this is God given me an experience so that when my children grow up, I will already have went thru what I am dreading most of parent hood... Empty nest syndrom. It's the same. Will I teach my kids the things they need to survive, and I will be (even more) sad to see my kids go as well. So, here is a life learning experience for me all given thru the loss of a mother mole. Here is a similar pic of ours(minus the hair and 2-3 inches).

5 fun ways to show love to your spouse

5 fun ways to show love to your spouse
I FOUND THIS WEBSITE HELPFUL. IT'S GREAT WAY TO WORK ON A ROCKY RELATIONSHIP OR TO KEEP A GREAT ONE GOING. CHECK IT OUT.  BELOW IS MY HUNNIE AND I WHEN WE FIRST GOT ENGAGED AND WE DO MOST OF THESE TIPS AND STILL HAVE A GREAT RELATIONSHIP. HOPE THEY HELP YOU
XOXO~
MEGS

The Honest Company KEEP KIDS SAFE & EARN $

The Honest Company 
This is a MOTHERS dream. The Honest Company is a Company which has many eco-safe, and affordable company which has made products for customers such as diapers, wipes, soaps, shampoos and cleaning items. They let you try it for FREE-your choice of products, either diaper essentials, cleaning essentials or health and wellness essentials just for becoming a member, and you can cancel at anytime.
SO not only will your family-babies, kids, pets-all be exposed to safe and unharmful affordable products but for each person YOU refer that becomes a member, you earn $20!!!
I'm saying....they care about the average American. It's not like big brand companies that just want the dollar (Johnson & Johnson's bed time bath was found to contain levels of THC and other harmful chemicals), but they make it safe. Click the above link to try it out.

My hero: Abe Lincoln, Leader, Hero, and Manic Depressive

I finally got THREE things I wanted. 1.) a night AND day alone with the Hubby Chris.~A.K.A. babysitters for the kids...OVERNIGHT and at the same time  2.) To lay back alone and watch a movie with Chris RELAXED without having to Pause it, stop it, or forget it due to interruptions that come with having a beautiful family and much 'needy' children. AND 3.) I got to do numbers one and two while completing number three. Watching the new release movie "Lincoln." 
I have always thought of Abe Lincoln of a GREAT role model, wonderful man, honest and caring Christian and great political leader. As a child in school, I would do reports on Abe when I was given the chance to pick a topic. Of course, in Elementary School, I was limited on my choice of books to gain information from. However, every report was different, each revealing more and I remember doing six reports all together-so with my memory there may have been more.
I always thought that Abe was awesome because he was able to stand up to so much controversy, and overcome the conflicts, hurdles and bumps in the road when it came to his idea of the ever famous, and then seemingly ludicrously impossible idea of signing the 13th Amendment.  Today, after watching the movie "Lincoln", I realized that even as a child I thought that to be a couragous task, but I didn't fully grasp all the negative feedback, put downs, all the trouble, the fighting for what he believed in, and even the lack of support from family, and even his best friend, Joshua Speed.
So, the movie focused on Abe's Presidency, what he did as a leader to unite the country, and what he did FOR THE PEOPLE. I must admit that I thought the movie would be good, but just a documentary and have little comical moments. However, anyone who knows about President Lincoln knows that he was known for telling stories and jokes, which sometimes caused him to gain some criticism throughout the term. As I was watching the movie tonight, I had wondered, WHY didn't I know he was this funny? Really? I always quote him. I always find awesome quotes about life, love, people and Christianity that are wise and so intelligent. I can't help but notice how his mind and my mind work alike. I figured it out. He and I suffer from the same ailment. 
Manic Depression. Also sometimes referred to as Bipolar disorder. I notice when growing up, I was under a load of stress. I always used comedy as a way to channel my energy when I was depressed and had to appear somewhere like work, school, and being a parent. Why? Because it got my mind off of  being depressed. I thought if I could focus on something else then I'd feel better and nobody would know what was wrong with me....because there was a time I didn't know nor did I want someone to tell me. But after watching the movie and with my ever wondering mind, I did do some research and found that there are many documented incidents of Abraham Lincoln's depression, as well as a book called "Abraham Lincoln's Melancholy" by Joshua Wolf Shenk. In a couple reports I read on this book I found that it focused on how Abe used his "comedy" to focus on what he needed to get done. He stated that telling his stories and jokes are what kept him going sometimes. It's as if being Manic and Bipolar at the same time, it's a feeling that is not fun when someone is forced to go from the "manic and exciting" end of the pole down to the "sad and depressed" end which happens unexpectedly and uncontrollably. This is why President Lincoln told stories and jokes when there was stress in the room, when times were hard. Just as a kid, I used my humor to get sent to the principal's office  or to miss too much work while isolating. We both used humor, he just had a better way with it that was more positive. He used his humor, and his ailment to help found our country again.
So, tell me. Why is Bipolar and Manic Depression now a means for someone to get put on disability? We now have medication to help, as well as doctors, counselors, psychiatrist, psychologists. Why now do we need to also become "disabled"? I see commercials with the "disability lawyers" who claim to get you disability...the money you 'deserve'...if you suffer from any of the following: Bipolar, anxiety, Manic Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADD, ADHD, and the list goes on. In times of Mr. Lincoln these medicines, knowledge, and help from professionals were not available. Why do we NEED to get disability and stay in bed, stay at home wasting our God given talents?  Lincoln who faced going thru the Great Depression, the Civil War, not to mention he lost his only brother at a very young age, his mom, aunt, and uncle died due to disease. A few years later his sister died after giving birth while delivering a still born baby. He also lost his job, had his business collapse and was in debt for 17 years, he failed to be nominated for congress, senate and the vice presidency too! He also had the failure of rejected by two women. But, he didn't quit. He fought, became President of the then "ununited" States during the Civil War and had to unite millions of Americans while dealing with his own issues, taking care of a family, and running a country.I'm sure after all of these events he wasn't just depressed, rather would have had some Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as well.
So, instead of using his Manic Depression, and catastrophic events in life as an excuse to run, hide, give up, and lay around and wile in the mire, he stood tall, and used his Bipolar (which can cause creativity as the brain races during mania), to pull a country together and become one of the best loved, most heroic, brave, and UN disabled humans and Presidents of the United States of America.
I no longer feel I need to hide my Bipolar. No longer do I feel it's an ailment, rather something to make me stronger. I believe that in times of trial, confusion or hard times, if we dig deep enough for information, we can find someone, somewhere in history or present, that has our same issues. Seeing someone else completely overcome such set backs with such success is inspiring enough that I don't feel anything could hold me back from success. Who am I to complain? I have been able to be a successful parent, student, wife, daughter, and part time work at home mom. Now though, when I'm feeling melancholy, I know who to think of and that will help me make it through whatever I need to. Because the present is important. Hiding from my condition will not help me continue to raise a happy and successful family. Hiding and isolation are ways to miss memories. Never miss a minute because each minute lost is a memory not made. A wise Abe Lincoln once said, "See what is before you in the here and now, that's the only thing that counts."

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New shelf/nick nack holder from a drawer

Okay so we found an old drawer. It was a boring day. Aerieannah and I made it into a shelf for some of her dolls and nick knacks and books. we even designed it with scrap paper, family sayings AND Modge Podge. Here is our steps: 

And here is the finished project. Perfect for my 6 year old's wall.

Awesome To-do list - Do It (Tomorrow)

Chrome Web Store - Do It (Tomorrow) This is such a funny app. Its available on Android and I phone as well. It is a comprehensive to do list that will allow you to "move to tomorrow" if you wanna.....wait but not feel guilty(no need for guilt it's a busy day and already on tomorrow's to-do list)

DIY Journal made from Cook book

I made a journal by taking an old cook book and ripping out every 4-5 pages and leaving 2. Then covering old recipes with printer paper, card stock, and scrap booking paper. Idk if I want to fabric the front or use many different papers that are bright like me. Tearing out the pages doesn't only make for great journaling but leaves plenty of spaces for taping gluing or stashing larger memories like flowers, letters, drawings, and other keepsakes. The binding on the book makes sure that it Will keep for years,or generations to come. It's also a creative way to keep journals and memories for the kids! I'll post a picture of my decision on front décor. Xoxo and happy crafting! ~Megs

YOU KNOW YOU WANNA TEAR APART A BOOK NOW RIGHT?

How to pray for your spouse & grow not hurt them.

I found this and believe its great rather than complaining about all he does wrong. I can now prey with gratitude that He will make my husband grow.

I found this thru: gypsy jane

Check this website:GREAT gardening ideas, check link below.

A women uses Salvaged Bricks for a nice edge to flower garden   

 I'm very excited to use our bricks we got this weekend in our new flower garden. We'll post pictures of our project as we go.

Its just us being blunt

http://2dayzlovechildren.tumblr.com
A mother/father real life issue band solution blog. Do and say and post what you want. Ask us anything....we have been thru EVERYTHING between the two of us.

My little spit fire just like me

My daughter &I are so much alike in personality that when her five year old mouth goes off all mouthy like SHE is the boss it makes me say out loud, "did I just say that..." And I realize its what I call two time out time. Where she gets her time out timer set and I need a time out from her. I'm 28 she is 5 and she doesn't need me screaming AT her like Old Man Riley yells at his dog. She's a human,  and not just any human MY PRINCESS who has this attitude because she needs help calming down in a time out from her five year old world as I sometimes need a break from my 28 year old world. But does 5year old know to take a break? No. And her identical to my mouth is my cue to help her. Not treat her like a dog. When I do help not hinder she'll be able to walk away someday when she is 28 because I taught her to time out from the situation until you are calm then come resolve issues in a Christian way, not as a woman raisin her dog,but future princess to be....my love......my clone....my mini me...who I want to succeed better than I did because I am giving her tools to do it. We fought tonight over cleaning her room and I yelled at her and didn't let her talk. After time out we are gonna cuddle up in bed as we are sitting together and show appreciation for the gift of each other since we aren't promised tomorrow.

Our handmade teacher appreciation gifts.

My 5 year old loved the student teacher so we painted an old flower pot with homemade chalkboard paint, wrote thanks for helping me "grow" and "bloom" in chalk then covered it with my fav-modge podge. Then the top we used acrylic painted a ruler. When it was  time for her to go, we used a seasonal plant. The teacher LOVED it said it was the best gift shed gotten. My daughter, Aerieannah, loved making it.
Check this link for chalkboard paint in any color:    
http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2012/02/how-to-mix-chalkboard-paint-in-any-color.html

A beautiful mes blog one of my faves

MUST CLICK TO VIEW WOOD Pallet Table DIY - A Beautiful Mess
My favorite blog made this beautiful cheap handmade table. I'm obsessed with pallet 'art'. You could use it on a porch,  patio, dining room, kitchen, garden, gift it, or sell it! Click the link and check it out.

Trendy Rainy Day Jewelry Projects

Trendy Jewelry Projects ~This is just ONE of 34 jewelry ideas,easy, fast, and trendy. DIY. I Love to make jewelry (check out Hippie Hemp) and do it a lot. I think this leather piece is so cute.

RAINY DAY PROJECTS SCRAPBOOKING!!!!!/PHOTO BOOKS DIY

Scrapbooking Techniques - How to Make a Scrapbook - Scrapbooks Etc.

Just a little help, also info on embellishments (which i LOVE). Here is another link that is good if you're a new "scrapper:

New scrap booker info: Family & Friend scrap booking CLICK HERE

A REAL PAYPHONE

stay tuned.... I found a REAL picture of one of these I will be posting shortly. They do exist. Promise. This is an upload  but I got one of a REAL one...stay tuned this evening. I'm going back to get the REAL picture.

JOURNALING TO BE BETTER PARENT; HELP STATES LESSEN MURDER RATE

I recently started a journal. It has been so helpful. Not just in keeping my feelings in check but in proving my boyfriend wrong...I can say "No I swear, its in my journal..." Also my explosive anger episodes....not so much outbursts any more just scribbles. Which, keeps me out of trouble and me owing the kids money for saying bad words "a dime a word." So, feeling like you're going to pop some one's head, feeling like moving out on a LONG time relationship? Gonna flip out on your child for doing "that same thing  I said not to ten times in a row?" Run to the bathroom, bedroom...alone and journal. Trust me...hell it may make the murder rate go down.

KEEP IN TOUCH WITH THOSE WHO MATTER

Ever sitting on the front porch and thinking of an old friend?? It happens for a reason....DROP THEM a NOTE. YOU may be the person they need to hear from...that one person who keeps them together.

RAISE CHILD'S SELF ESTEEM WITH DR.SEUSS QUOTES!!!!

I BELIEVE DR. SEUSS REALLY COULD MAKE A CHILD'S SELF ESTEEM RISE. I USE THESE WITH MY DAUGHTER ALL THE TIME....HECK IT'S HELPED MY SELF ESTEEM.

Anna and Ernest | Wedding Celebration in Ajur-Wedding

Anna and Ernest | Wedding Celebration in Ajur-Wedding This is in russian, but you can read the beginning in English if you have Google Chrome. If not this is what it says:

 Anna and Ernest

The book - an endless source of inspiration that contains a vast mystery.

Wedding of Anna and Ernest - is a fascinating book that is read with delight, for one day.

When you open this book, guests moved to the fairy land, where after going through the door with the monograms of the bride and groom have become parties to the beautiful and moving ceremony.

And then, finding their names in the book volumes, hit the home library to a special dinner, and sitting under the shade of a round table, enjoyed three memorable dances, which gave them the main characters of the novel. 

 I LOVE the theme.... anyone else....

Homemade Furniture Polish -CLEAN THAT WOOD RIGHT AND SHINY

Homemade Furniture Polish - iDreamOfClean I thought that this May or may not work....GIRLS AND BOYS its AWESOME. Really, all those times I've spent buying furniture cleaner, NEVER again. EVER. Trust me this is the trick.

How to Build Floating Shelves - Swagbucks TV

How to Build Floating Shelves - Swagbucks TV To build your own floating shelves with only 5 items....kick ass