scrappinwithmel

It's been awhile, here's the new do!

2010-06-24T14:08:00.000-07:00

Recklessly Abandoned

2010-01-31T11:26:00.000-08:00

Paul was not conscious of himself. He was recklessly abandoned, totally surrendered, and separated by God for one purpose— to proclaim the gospel of God (see Romans 9:3).

Wow! This is powerful. This came from the devotion for today “My Utmost For His Highest”. If our eyes are focused on our own character and how we can be more pleasing in our own eyes, the work of the gospel has not really even begun in us. God can’t deliver me while my interest is merely in my own character. I must be recklessly abandoned to God.

Recklessly abandoned...totally surrendered and sold out for Jesus. Our pursuit of holiness can often turn very legalistic and self serving. Who would have thought? This devotion urges us to seek out the motivation of our heart as we seek holiness. God desires for us to proclaim the gospel."Christian workers fail because they place their desire for their own holiness above their desire to know God." Yikes! This was pretty strong yet so thought provoking. I am so grateful for this statement because it reminds me to search my heart and to evaluate my true motivations and desires. It all comes down to KNOWING GOD. So I ask us today, is our desire to KNOW GOD stronger than our desire to look good in our own eyes.
Lord help us to seek You out and accept all that You put in our path. Father, creator of heaven and earth, You deserve all glory. Help us to spread the greatness of the gospel and to be completely and totally sold out for You. Help us to be recklessly abandoned, thinking not of ourselves but of the Your redemption. Father help us to be transformed from the inside out and to be Your hands and feet. Help us to answer the call! In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Lord bless you all this week,
God is good and is worthy to be praised!

Hugs,
Melanie

Representing God

2010-01-24T10:38:00.000-08:00

Hello and happy Sunday to all! In my quiet time I read a devotion that really struck me. It is such a simple concept but sometimes hearing the familiar from a new angle helps me to own it. The concept is representing God!
In Numbers 6: 22-27 God spoke to Moses telling him to speak to Aaron and his sons. God told him to tell them that God wanted to bless them and the children of Israel; that He would keep them and shine His face upon them and that He would be gracious to them; He would also lift His countenance upon them and give them peace.
This is a scripture that my pastor always ends our service with. Sometimes we get so used to hearing a scripture repeated that we tend not to think about what it really means. My devotion goes on to talk about the duties of a priest. The first duty is to go before God to represent the people. Secondly, he would represent God to the people as he declared the Word to the people. JUST STOP AND THINK ABOUT THIS. WHAT AN AWESOME RESPONSIBILITY TO REPRESENT GOD TO OTHER PEOPLE!
Well, as I thought about it I realized, duh! That's what my job is too! Those watching God's representatives develop their concepts of Him by what they see in the priest, that is why God is so concerned in how He is represented before the people. Numbers 6:22-27 tells us that God desired to bless the people and that He wants His name associated with peace. Are we doing our job? When people look at us do they see the reality of God: who He really is? The world is watching and if we represent Him as getting frustrated and angry over small annoyances what kind of picture are we painting?
I am guilty! I know that I do not always represent my gracious God properly. So I offer a prayer to Him now; Lord, forgive me for the times I have not represented the true nature of who You are. Lord fill my heart with compassion, tenderness, kindness and goodness. Allow these to flow from my life that all those around me may see who You really are and get a TRUE concept of Your nature. Allow Your Spirit to to work in my life and continue to transform me and to show Your goodness. Help us to be priests who represent You well. Lord forgive me for the times that I misrepresented You. In Jesus name I pray.

So to all of my brothers and sisters, " The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace."

Melanie

How Are You Today?

2010-01-18T10:10:00.000-08:00

Good morning my friends or perhaps it is afternoon or evening for some of you. As I woke up today I had many things on my to do list to get accomplished. I have been working hard to organize and clear out the clutter in my home. As I sat down at the computer to prepare some activities for my first grade class, I once again was stopped in my tracks by the headlines on Haiti.
I could not help but to investigate the new images of this awful catastrophe. As I viewed each slide I sobbed and prayed over each person and their family. I knew that they would be graphic but I felt that I needed to put a face on those precious souls who are so in need of prayer. I know that these headlines are a reminder for me to remember to pray and pray hard. I cannot say that I can fathom such heartache and pain. However I do know that we are living in end times and this is just the beginning of what the Bible warns about. In the end days there will be wars and rumors of wars, plagues, earthquakes, floods etc.
I know there are many of you out there experiencing some of the toughest times in your life and I do not want to make light of that. However, in my personal case, I have a bit of a perspective adjustment that is taking place. I can find myself whining and grumbling over so many little things. As I remember those in Haiti I truly can say I am good today. There is so much hurt and desperation in that country right now, as an onlooker I feel so helpless. The best I have to offer is heartfelt prayer. Prayer for provisions, comfort, aide, and most importantly HOPE. Do they have the hope of a Savior and of eternal life? I don't know. Many may but what about those who don't know?
Lord I pray that you would reveal yourself to those hurting souls that don't know you. Lord that they would know the hope of your salvation. That they may cast their eyes and hearts on a world that is yet to come where there will be no more pain, no more tears, no more fear. Father come to those people and use whoever you see fit to bring that message to them. Oh Lord Your ways are higher than our ways. We can not understand them. Lord for those who are doubting and questioning right now I say "I believe help my unbelief". Help them to not lose heart or sight of You. Lord be with your children. In Jesus name I pray.

So HOW ARE YOU TODAY?

Sincerely,

Melanie

Which One Is You????

2010-01-01T13:19:00.000-08:00

You will never look at a cup of coffee the same way again.

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as soon as one problem was solved, a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl.

Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me what you see."

"Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied.

Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots.

She did and noted they were soft. The mother then asked the

daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg.

Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma. The daughter then asked, "What does it mean, mother?"

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak.

The egg had been fragile.

Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened.

The ground coffee beans were unique, however.After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.

"Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?

Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit; but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?

Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human, and enough hope to make you happy.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying; and everyone around you was smiling.

Live your life so at the end, you're the one who is smiling; and everyone around you is crying.

May we all be COFFEE!

So to all of my friends, I pray that you choose to be blessed this year, 2010. While we may face many trials and adversity, let's choose to focus on the God Moments in our lives. Choose to see the mighty ways in which he has moved in your life and will coninue to move in your life. He is just and faithful and has a plan for each and everyone of us. I pray that daily that plan would be uncovered and that as we seek Him He will reveal Himself to us. We must choose to focus on the blessings. Just like driving, we will drive toward what we focus on. So let us look toward this new year with great expectations for we serve a God who is all powerful, all knowing, merciful, compassionate and full of grace. May He give us the strength to endure and persevere this year no matter what comes our way.

God bless,
Melanie

Christmas Eve

2009-12-30T00:47:00.000-08:00

Me and my family Christmas Eve. We enjoyed a candlelight service at church and a cozy time of fellowhip at home. I truly am blessed! That last picture is Missy trying to get her dress off, she really doesn't care for clothes!

The Lord is Faithful

2009-12-23T11:21:00.000-08:00

Hello my friends! This morning I was so encouraged as I was gently reminded by the Word of God that HE, the Lord is faithful. I know that there are many of us who are enduring various trials and difficult times that may seem overwhelming, discouraging and/or down right hopeless. It is very easy to become consumed in our situations and thoughts of ourselves but I do not believe that is what the Lord would want us to fix our eyes on.
In in His holy Word, in 2 Timothy, we are reminded that Paul endured persecutions and afflictions (more than most can ever imagine) and that the Lord delivered him out of them ALL. " Yes and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." God does not promise us deliverance from persecution but deliverance through it. Persecution is one of the means God uses to develop our capacity to reign with Him in His kingdom. 2 Tim 2:12 "If we endure, We shall also reign with Him." Persevering in the faith even in the face of hardship or persecution will result in a reward when Christ returns. (see Matt 5:10-12; Rev 2:10.). Paul continues to remind us in 2 Tim 3: 14-15 " But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that form childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. Paul was referring to Timothy in this passage and his Godly heritage. For those of us who are believers, some from childhood and others later in life, we are exhorted that the truths of God's Word directs us to Christ. God's Word and the spirit of God are both essential for our salvation.
The other scripture that really jumped off the page was 2 Tim 4:6. " For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand." Here Paul is confident that no one could touch him until the Heavenly Father ushered him into his eternal home with a victory celebration. Paul had been vigilant in his service to God. "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing."
So my friend, if you are reading this today, be assured that all that you are experiencing and enduring is seen by God. He knows your struggles and desires for you to fight the good fight being fully confident that He will deliver you through them and that He, the righteous Judge, will give to you on that Day the crown of righteousness. Until that day, let's keep our eyes fixed on that joyous hope that awaits us and allow God to pour us out like a drink offering before Him, fixing our eyes on the size of our God and not the size of our troubles, being fully confident that He is faithful to deliver us from every evil work and preserve us for His heavenly kingdom(2 Tim 4:18).

Many blessings to you,
Melanie

Christmas Fun!

2009-12-15T15:48:00.001-08:00

When Christmas rolls around we love to do fun family activities. This year we decorated a cookie jar that I found at Michael's a couple years back. It was an after Christmas clearance item and only cost $5.00, I love a deal!!! Everyone signed their name and contributed to the making of the cookie jar, even big brother Dusty! Then of course we needed cookies so chocolate chip is what we made!

Insights for Today

2009-12-12T12:41:00.000-08:00

After speaking with a dear friend of mine I was so very well reminded of the pain and suffering that so many people are experiencing today. If you do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ, I want to encourage you to seek Him out. Have questions? Then ask- He wants to answer them for you and He wants to give you hope.
Today I would like to share some excerpts from various devotions from Elizbeth Elliot. If anyone knows pain and suffering, she does. Her husband was murdered by a tribe in Equador to whom he was trying to reach out to in Jesus name. She has an incredible testimony and God has used her in a mighty and powerful way.
Here are some of her words... Many of our prayers are directed toward the quick and easy solution. Long suffering is sometimes the only means by which the greater glory of God will be served, and this is, for the moment invisible. We must persist in faith. God has a splendid purpose. Believe in order to see it. Our troubles are slight and short lived; and their outcome an eternal glory which outweighs them far. Meanwhile our eyes are fixed, not on the things that are seen, but on the things that are unseen (2 Cor.4:17-18).
The Lord who loves you suffered and wants you to fellowship with Himself. The joy of thus knowing Him comes not in spite of but because of suffering, just as resurrection comes out of death. I have a Savior because I am a sinner, and beauty is given to the child of God in exchange for ashes.
We want to avoid suffering, death, sin, ashes. But we live in a world crushed and broken and torn, a world God Himself visited to redeem. We receive His poured out life and, being allowed the high privilege of suffering with Him, may then pour ourselves out for others. How can one's suffering help another? By being offered to Him who can transform it into blessing. You have been granted the privilege not only of believing in Christ but also of suffering for Him (Phil.1:29).

Revelation Song

2009-08-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

Read chapters 4-7 in Revelation to see the inspiration for this song. God you are awesome and worthy to be praised!!!

The Challenge of Contentment

2009-08-10T11:33:00.000-07:00

This morning after reading my Word for the day I came across this "In Depth" in my bible. These are inserts in my bible that really make you think. I really chewed on this one and thought it was worth sharing word for word so here it goes:

Paul's young disciple Timothy had his hands full in Ephesus. The apostle had left Timothy in that city to oversee the organization of the church. Timothy was to provide consistent teaching, help the church choose leaders, and model personal integrity as a leader.
Paul's first letter to Timothy contains both direction and encouragement for Timothy. Among his memorable objectives Paul included the following; "Now godliness with contentment is great gain" (6:6). Obviously, the absence of both godliness and contentment would indicate great loss, especially in the Christian life. Godliness without contentment would be a joyless and legalistic righteousness. Contentment without godliness describes a person sadly disconnected from God's truth.
What kind of life is Paul describing when he speaks of godly contentment? Paul describes such a person as having a firm understanding of the passing nature of life. The things of this world are here when we arrive and are left behind when we leave. Neither godliness nor contentment can be found in accumulating them. Things beyond God's provision of our basic needs (food and clothing.6:8) can be enjoyed without becoming a necessity. Paul understood that if godliness (our desire to see God's character reproduced in us) and contentment (our acceptance of God's will in our lives) depend on our circumstances, both will always be unstable.
Elsewhere, Paul indicates that godly contentment must be a learned response(see Phil. 4:11-13). Developing godly contentment lies well beyond our abilities. That is why along with Paul we must appeal to the right source for such a character trait:" I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Phil. 4:13)

How are your eyes???

2009-08-08T11:10:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,

Today the verse "He who has a generous eye will be blessed, For he gives of his bread to the poor" Prov 22:9 is what God laid on my heart. We live in a world where everyone looks out for number one. How much can I do for myself, what will make me happier, what can I attain to gain stature and on and on. This in and of itself often times leads to misery and complete self absorption. In the proverb it says a generous eye will be blessed. What does the eye do? It sees of course. What does your eye see today? We must first look and be aware of what is around us. Who will you be looking for today and who will you see today who needs a helping hand? What will you do about it? One thing I have learned is that you can't out give God. So do an eye check today, see how your eyes are? Are your eyes good 20/20 or do you need some corrective lenses? God bless you today and know that God loves you more than you'll ever know.

Hugs and blessings,

The Power of Praise!!!

2009-08-04T00:02:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,

I revisited parts of the book Prison to Praise and was blessed by the reminder of how the joy of the Lord is my strength. No matter what the circumstances, I must continue to praise and thank the Lord for all that He allows in my life, even when it doesn't make sense. "Praising Him isn't something we do because we feel good; rather it is an act of obedience."

"The very act of praise releases the power of God into a set of circumstances and enables God to change them if this is His design. It's often our attitudes that hinder the solution of a problem." In 1 Thes 5:18 we are reminded "In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." Not always easy but commanded by our Lord. In 2 Chron 20 we see the power of praise. A whole army was defeated when the Israelites simply praised the Lord and believed Him when He said that the battle wasn't theirs but His. As Merlin Carothers puts it " The enemy's arrows just can't penetrate the joy of someone who is praising the Lord. While we praise Him, He sends our enemies scurrying. Now that's powerful!!!!

So my friends, let's praise Him today. Praise Him for all that He is allowing you to go through and see what happens.

God of Wonders!!!

2009-07-29T23:57:00.001-07:00

Here are some pics from our trip to the Grand Canyon. Tori came to visit for 2 weeks and we took a little mini vacation to explore God's amazing creation. His handiwork screams His name.
I spy Tori!

If you look close you'll see a squirrel begging for food, they are professionals! CLICK to enlarge

Vic and the kids. We sure miss big brother Dusty!
Lexi and big sister Tori!
Tori and Vic
I love this one. It's all about perspective!
Vic and Cameron
The beautiful Grand Canyon

As for me...

2009-07-22T20:09:00.000-07:00

Hello friends, it's been a long time. I have been enjoying time with my family during summer vacation as I know it will be harder to find that time when I am back to work in August. The Lord has been revealing many things to me this summer as I have sought Him during this ever changing season in my life.

Sometimes it is difficult to determine what God is doing but the beauty of it is that we really don't need to. It has been challenging walking through the questions " Lord what do you have for me to do? What would you like me to stop doing? Is this all you want me to do or is there more? Am I doing too much, too little? I find that everything seems to be connected even when it doesn't appear to be. God uses it all to mold me and strip me of my flesh. What I do know is that He is with me and He wants to walk along side of me regardless of where I am and what He has me doing. Finding the peace and contentment is an ongoing prayer project but knowing that whatever my hands find to do I need to do it with all my might as unto the Lord.

Today I spent my quiet time in Psalm 55. The Lord really desires to minister to our broken hearts. In this psalm David was severely pained by the betrayal of a friend. Now that hurts. Our friends are those that we esteem highly and share intimate emotions and experiences with. We should be able to trust them, right? Well, as we all know we don't live in a perfect world. We are flesh and blood and we have a sin nature. However we have a friend who sticks closer than a brother. We have our Lord and Savior, the one who died for our sins, the one we call Abba Father who will never leave us nor forsake us.

What I loved so much about this psalm is vs 16. Remember, David did not always choose to follow the Lord. He made big mistakes in his past.However, in vs 16 it says "As for me, I will call upon God, And the Lord shall save me. This was David taking a stand and choosing to have faith. God had delivered David many times in the past and when he took the time to remember what God had done for him, he knew that he could trust that God would do it again.

Let's be encouraged that no matter what we are going through, no matter the distress, God can and will hear our cries and He is faithful! Let us be people who choose the stance"As for me, I will call upon God." Vs 22 reminds us "Cast your burden on the Lord, And He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved." Remember the Lord is the one constant in life and the one true Friend. There is no burden that He cannot bear.

Be blessed knowing that the God who created this universe loves you so much, more than you can ever know. He desires to hear our cries and our praises. He is our confidant who will never betray us and we are safe in His hands. So whatever you may be going through, give it to God and make the choice to trust in Him and His faithfulness.

God Bless,

Home Run!!!

2009-05-16T21:37:00.000-07:00

This was the last game of the season for T-Ball and Cameron went out with a bang. He was the final batter and he hit a home run!!!!! Sorry for the loud screaming but it was so exciting. My boy is #9 and I couldn't be prouder!

2009-05-10T14:31:00.000-07:00

Thank you Lord for my beautiful children Lexi and Cameron. Tori and Dusty, I love you and am so blessed to be your step mom.

Happy Mother's Day!!!

2009-05-10T13:49:00.001-07:00

To all of you in blogland and to all of my very precious mommy girlfriends, I wish you a Happy Mother's Day. I pray that you know how loved you are and how blessed we are to have been given this privilege of motherhood. The job is never done, there is always something to stretch us just a little further than we think we can handle, but the rewards are inexplicable. I pray that we will all embrace the job that God has appointed us to. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May He make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.

Here are some encouragements from God's holy Word:

"Children are a heritage from the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. " Psalm 127:3

"Blessed is he whose quiver is full" Psalm 127:5

"Do not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." Gal 6:9

"Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." Proverbs 31:28

Motherhood is a race of endurance, so press on. Don't give up, embrace the good times as well as the bad times. Know that we were not called to be the mother of our beautiful children for no reason. Let us allow the Lord to have His perfect way with us by using our children to help mold us as well as we are attempting to mold them. As Paul says in Philipppians 3:14 " I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." May He continue to give us wisdom in leading his children in a world full of darkness. May our children be a light to a dying world. May He bless and multiply our efforts this day and every day forward. God bless you my friends. May we look forward to the day when we hear the words " Well done thy good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:21

Hugs to all
In His service,
Melanie

Devotion for today

2009-01-19T09:33:00.000-08:00

Well here was the devotion from "My Utmost For His Highest." It was such a true reality. Be encouraged in those down times, those times of darkness and stillness. This is when God does His best work. I pray that you all find comfort and encouragement from the truth that follows.

Whenever God gives a vision to a Christian, it is as if He puts him in "the shadow of His hand" (Isaiah 49:2). The saint’s duty is to be still and listen. There is a "darkness" that comes from too much light-that is the time to listen. The story of Abram and Hagar in Genesis 16 is an excellent example of listening to so-called good advice during a time of darkness, rather than waiting for God to send the light. When God gives you a vision and darkness follows, wait. God will bring the vision He has given you to reality in your life if you will wait on His timing. Never try to help God fulfill His word. Abram went through thirteen years of silence, but in those years all of his self-sufficiency was destroyed. He grew past the point of relying on his own common sense. Those years of silence were a time of discipline, not a period of God’s displeasure. There is never any need to pretend that your life is filled with joy and confidence; just wait upon God and be grounded in Him (see Isaiah 50:10-11 ).

Do I trust at all in the flesh? Or have I learned to go beyond all confidence in myself and other people of God? Do I trust in books and prayers or other joys in my life? Or have I placed my confidence in God Himself, not in His blessings? "I am Almighty God . . ."— El-Shaddai, the All-Powerful God (Genesis 17:1). The reason we are all being disciplined is that we will know God is real. As soon as God becomes real to us, people pale by comparison, becoming shadows of reality. Nothing that other saints do or say can ever upset the one who is built on God.

Blessings & hugs,

Melanie

The ChristmasTea at CCGV

2008-12-27T10:22:00.000-08:00

Here's our worship ensemble for the tea. Belinda, Candace, Demell and myself. These 3 are sisters. We decided to go with matching jackets this year!
Me & Terri
Me & Julie
The gang...Becca, me, Julie & Terri. What a blessed 3 nights this was. Thank you God for these amazing friends that you have blessed me with. There is nothing better than having true friendship!

Every year our church hosts a Christmas Tea. It is simply amazing. The speaker, the food the music and the spirit of God are all over the top. Because the church has grown so much this year we had 3 nights for the tea to be able to accommodate over 700 women. It is so amazing to be a part of this event. If you are in the area please consider checking it out, it is an absolute blessing!

Pooped!

2008-12-23T10:35:00.000-08:00

This is one of Missy's favorite spots. She was wiped out! She's 9 months old now for those of you who were wondering. What ever happened to "She's never gonna be allowed on the furniture!!!" I'm such a push over, but she's so darn cute!!

Snow Dog!!!

2008-12-23T10:10:00.000-08:00

Lexi's very first snowman at 8yrs old. She was so happy!
Missy, our snow dog.
Missy ate the almonds that were falling off the snowman. She also gave him a gastric bypass as she wouldn't stop digging the snowman's belly.

Missy got some new coats for her first snow. She fought it at first but then gave up and went about her business. I love her in pink!!!

Are we in Las Vegas?????????????

2008-12-18T10:21:00.000-08:00

This is at 4:00 before it really started accumulating. A 7 minute drive home from work took me 35 min. The roads were slick and the drivers were very cautious. Did I mention I got stuck in the middle of the road?????????? Yikes!

this was at 4:00 when I got home from work, can't believe this is my house!
SNOWBALL FIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WHOHOOOOO! OH WHAT FUN FOR THE KIDS!!Cameron humoring me by the tree, all he wanted to do was play, not take pictures!

Lexi's always up for a picture.

I have better pics in the evening when it was at around 3-4 inches but uploading is very slow right now, so I will try later. Missy had a blast too. Her first snow. At first she barked at it, later she enjoyed running around and chasing snowballs.

I also have pics of the aftermath this morning. Because we are not used to this kind of cold, all of our trees which took 8 yrs to grow are destroyed. Now I know how my mom feels in Florida when a hurricane hits, so sad!
The aftermath. The tree that has been growing for 8 yrs! Waaaaa! Here are the kids this morning!
This was last night at around 6:00 and it was coming down hard!Lexi making her very first snow angel!

Devotion from Streams in the Desert

2008-12-13T09:42:00.000-08:00

Good morning my friends. It has been a long time, I apologize. I have not had much time for my hobbies but am doing very well. Being in the classroom after all these years has posed some challenges but nothing that can't be overcome. I have been getting every sniffle, cough and cold imaginable but God is good. He sure is teaching me resilience.
I do however think of all of you often. I wonder when I will create again and wonder how your lives are and what God is doing. Please leave me a message if God is doing something in your life, I am so encouraged by that.
This morning in my quiet time I read a devotion from Streams in the Desert that really spoke to me. I know times are tough right now for so many and it is often difficult to see the light. This devotion put a beautiful perspective on things. Sometimes the darkness can be the most beautiful place to be, it's all how you view it. Here is the devotion:

In the famous lace shops of Brussels, there are special rooms devoted to the spinning of the world's finest lace, all with the most delicate patterns. The rooms are kept completely dark, except for the light that falls directly on the developing pattern, from one very small window. Only one person sits in each small room, where the narrow rays of light fall upon the threads he is weaving , for lace is always more beautifully and delicately woven when the weaver himself is in the dark, with only his work in the light.
Sometimes the darkness in our lives is worse, because we cannot even see the web we are weaving or understand what we're doing. Therefore we are unable to see any beauty or any possible good arising from our experience. Yet if we are faithful to forge ahead and "if we do not give up" (Galations 6:9), someday we will know that the most exquisite work of our lives was done during those days when it was the darkest.
If you seem to be living in deep darkness because God is working in strange and mysterious ways, do not be arraid. Simply go forward in faith and in love, never doubting Him. He is watching and will bring goodness and beauty from all of your pain and tears. J.R. Miller

The shuttles of His purpose move
To carry out His own design;
Seek not too soon to disapprove
His work, nor yet assign
Dark motives, when , with silent tread,
You view some somber fold;
For lo, within each darker thread,
There twines a thread of gold.

Spin cheerfully,
Not tearfully,
He knows the way you plod;
Spin carefully,
Spin prayerfully,
But leave the thread with God.
from the Canadian Home Journal

To you, all my friends, from church, school, family and cyberspace, I pray blessings upon your lives and the joy of the Lord to fall upon you.

Hugs,
Melanie

Grand Opening!!!

2008-11-01T10:12:00.000-07:00

www./folderfun.ning.com/page/grand-opening

Check it out. I love this site. I highly encourage file folder games as an inexpensive tool to engage your child in the learning process. They are adding to the library weekly. They have more pre k and kindergarten right now but you can adapt them to fit your needs if you are creative. They have a blank pumpkin template that you can use to adapt to the skills you are working on. So check it out and print away!!!

Thank you girls!!!

2008-09-27T17:35:00.001-07:00

Here are some cards that I have recently received in the mail as well as this special wall hanging
Ok, This one really made me cry. This wall hanging was handmade by Adrienne. When I went into my classroom on Fri it was in a pink gift bag on my front table. I first opened the beautiful card, how cute is that Bella????????? Then, when I opened all the bubble wrap I found this beautiful glass frame with my favorite scripture on it. Did you know that was my fav scripture Adrienne???? I totally know that was the Lord. I was so touched and blessed, I couldn't help but to get emotional. I am so clinging to this verse right now in this particular season of life. Thank you my sweet and talented friend.
Love the Bella from Adrienne!
This cute card came from a SCS birthday RAK from Amy
These 2 came from my SBS sister Tracy.This Sarah Kay card came from my SBS sister Shazza, check her out on my sidebar under SBS time to craft. I absolutely love these images and would love to get my hands on some. How cute is this card. Oh I love it! Thank you so much!!!
This card came from my girlfriend LeighAnn, isn't it cool??? The circle in the center is a peekaboo window. Thank you for the thank you card Leighann!

Thank you all for thinking of me. Tomorrow is my birthday for those of you who thought you missed it. I will be turning 36. I never will get too old for cards, that's for sure. Thank you for blessing me!

Hugs,

Melanie

Some vacation pics!

2008-09-27T12:09:00.001-07:00

Thought I'd get a picture in our cabin before it got too messy

Day one from the ship - Key West, Fl
Just a couple of the towel animals left by the room attendant, too cute!

It took us about 2 hours stop and go to get all the way around cozumel on a scooter

I couldn't resist. I made Vic stop to pose with this statue! This is a gym we passed in Cozumel.

What an awesome Creator!!!! Thank you God!!!

All the earth declares His glory!!!!!!!!!!!

I thought it would be a cool reminder of the scooter to include the mirror in the picture
The last of the beaches before heading back to the port
We stopped to enjoy the beach, but the water was pretty rough, nearly took Vic's shorts off!
Margaritaville in Cozumel

We stopped at a light house to take a quick pic in Cozumel
I love you hunny. Happy Anniversary!

Sept 17 we celebrated our 9 year anniversary. We were in Cozumel that day! Wow, thank you Jesus

We also went to Belize in Central America but I had to buy a disposable camera because I left my charger at home and my camera died. I still haven't used all the film on it.

HEllO FRIENDS!

2008-09-23T19:24:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to say how much I miss all of you my friends. I have just returned from Florida and a 5 day cruise for my anniversary which was Sept 17. It was a trip planned before I accepted my teaching position so it definitely will not be the norm. It was a such a blessing to spend quality time with my hunny after being like ships passing in the night. Plus the kids got to stay with grandma and pop-pop which was a blast.

I am pretty busy with work so I have not been able to fit in anything else. I have about 600 emails in my box and pictures on my camera that need to get uploaded. I am hoping to get some time this weekend to catch up.

I wanted to say a special thanks to my blogging sisters who sent me anniversary cards and birthday cards. I will post them just as soon as I can. I have been so absorbed in work and estranged from my friends, so it blessed my heart when I received these cards. It is such a gift to be thought of. So to my sistahs, thank you, you truly touched my heart.

I miss all of my gal pals at CCGV, I think of you often and keep you all in my prayers. I thank the Lord everyday for each one of you. I pray that all you homeschooling moms are being abundantly blessed. What an amazing privilege you have been given. Go all out for God and He will go all out for you!!!!!

God bless you,

Hugs,

Melanie

Trying!!!!!!!

2008-09-06T23:58:00.000-07:00

Ok, I thought I would try out the blog templates but they are not accommodating my 3 column blog very well. I love this one but as you can see the text is really hard to read now on the side bars. I kind of started something I can't finish. So when I get some more time I will try to resolve my layout. There are not many to choose from for 3 column and when I did it did not fit the whole layout either the sides got cut off. I really like this one but the side bars are too hard to read, waaaaaaaaaa! Any suggestions???? I don't have the time to redo my whole blog but I've always loved the really artsy looking ones. My gal pals have all made beautiful changes! Any other layouts that accomodate 3 column blogs please come my way!!!!

Smiles,

Melanie

Hello Friends!!!

2008-09-02T17:26:00.001-07:00

It feels like its been forever since I've blogged but I come to you bearing gifts. Here are some cards I made last night using the new Just Because card kit. While my hubby was watching the TN game, I decided to open up my kit and play. Well, let me tell you...if you are a busy bee like I've been, this is the kit for you. It is so easy and quick and look how cute the cards are! I couldn't wrap my brain around anything too difficult. I wanted to relax with something rather thoughtless yet beautiful.

This kit is available for free or discounted depending on your purchase until Sept 30. It comes with the stampset, pre-cut card pieces, ribbon, sparkles, 2 ink pads, card bases and envelopes. It makes 16 cards, 2 each of 8 designs.

I have not finished all of the designs yet, but I got off to a great start.

Visit my website for more info

And here is the finished layout that I started a few weeks ago of Missy and Lexi. I thought I would show you per the suggestions that were left for me. Adrienne said "How about a flower?" Leslie said "how about some brads?" and I said I was going to add ribbon and of course I couldn't leave out the bling! So here it is. Thanks for all your suggestions, here's what I did..................

I used chocolate brads for the flower centers and small rhinestones for the smaller flower centers. I added ribbon to my fabric flower and voila, a new revised page!!!

MIA

2008-08-23T10:25:00.000-07:00

Hello all!!! I kind of have been missing in action. I have been in my classroom this week attempting to get ready for the start of school. I don't know how much time I will have to create right now, but as the Lord allows I will post what I can.

I do however ask for your prayers. The task before me in my own eyes is so very great but in the Lord's eyes it is a very light load. So I ask that the Lord would continue to go before me and lay out that path that He would have me walk on.

Parents night was Thurs evening and it was so amazing. I felt like crying when all those precious little first graders were sitting before me. What a privilege I have been given, to be able to teach these children and open their eyes to the wonders of God's Word.

It was pretty funny, I spent a lot of time worrying about what the parents might ask that night and I prayed that the Lord would go before me and give me wisdom. However the one question I didn't have an answer to, came from one of the students. He wanted to know where his backpack was going to go. Being that we are not equipped with cubbies or hooks or anything of the sort, I never even thought about it. Praise God the vice principal was there to supply the answer because this was important to this little one. It was so sweet because it was a reminder for me to always keep in mind what's important to these little ones.

So I pray that you all have a blessed week and when I can I will post some pics of our classroom. It is still in the making but I know it will be all that God wants it to be in His perfect timing. So remember, if you are facing a task that seems bigger than you remember these words " Not by power, not my might but by my spirit says the Lord".

Hugs and kisses,

Melanie

Some layouts

2008-08-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

Here's a layout I did of Cameron in the pool this summer at age 5. I kept it simple to focus on the pics. I used the acrylic pebbles from Michaels. I found them on clearance for 1.99 and the bag is big! I can't get enough of them. Perfect for water pages etc.

Ok, being a new puppy owner has made me a little nutso! I had to go and find some doggie things. I found the Pet Stack on sale at Joanns and thought "I must have that" So here's my first layout using it. Nothing is adhered yet, this is kind of still in the making but I'm still trying to figure out if I should add some ribbon. The paper is pretty busy so I'm thinking I should probably leave it alone. What do you think?

Supplies: Pet Stack, cocoa cs, topiary cs, cricut base camp

Bella Card

2008-08-16T17:40:00.000-07:00

P.S. That's a virgin drink!!!! LOL!

Here's a card I made for a friend's birthday using one of the images that Jenn sent me. I used my cricut for the stars and the word celebrate.

By the way, have I told you how much I am loving the Cricut Expressions. For those of you looking to buy one, costco.com has the lowest price. Walmart sells it for 289.00 and Sam's club as well but on line at Costco it's 269.00 and FREE SHIPPING!!!!

Love it, love it, love it!

Provo Craft was kind enough to send me a new cricut to replace mine which never really worked from the beginning. I bought it at Walmart almost 2 years ago and only used it a few times because it would just stop working. All the buttons would light up green and nothing would turn them off. I called Provo craft and 3 days later a new one was at my door step. They are amazing!

Supplies: CTMH CS barn red, twilight and white daisy, CTMH markers twilight, barn red and sunkiss yellow, Bella stamp

I love your blog!!

2008-08-11T11:44:00.000-07:00

Thank you to my SBS sister Tracy who so kindly nominated me for this award. She is now a DT member for a sketch blog so be sure to check her out here.

I wanted to extend this to all who visit my blog, you know who you are. I love all of your blogs!!! And you are all so special to me. Thank you for sharing your artwork, your testimonies, your families and your heart with all of us. I believe that God allows us to be connected for a very special purpose and I am very blessed by all of you. Keep on sharing, keep on blogging. This goes out to all of you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Have a blessed day!

Melanie

Life with Missy!!!

2008-08-06T10:59:00.001-07:00

Missy knows exactly where to find her food. Yummy, she's a growin pup!
Oh what crazy eyes you have!!!!!!!!!!! Yikes
Missy loves biting on her blankies, any blankie, all blankies!!!!!!!! Chew, chew and more chewing!
Missy loves to snuggle with daddy!!!!!!!!!!!! And daddy loves to snuggle with Missy!
Missy loves shoes. She always make her way to the shoe pile!!!!!!!!! Lexi took this pic
Gotta do what ya gotta do. I'm trying to build up my resistance a little at a time! LOL
How ridiculous is this?????????? I never would have thunk it, hee hee hee!
ok, what's up with that?????????????????????????????????????
Yummy!!! He looks edible.........................
Can you hear Missy now "Who's that in my crate?????"
The kids are too funny. They put squaky macaw in her crate to keep her company!
Missy not feeling too well. Her kennel cough is getting the best of her for now, poor baby!

We took Missy to the vet yesterday and she is on antibiotics for 10 days. She has a bad case of kennel cough and was not her perky self. She was having a hard time holding her bladder so yesterday was interesting. Having her is like having an infant. Eat, poop, pee, eat, poop, pee and a very tight schedule.

Missy also lost a tooth at the vet while she was eating a treat. So they gave me a medicine tube to hold it in. That was pretty exciting for us! Oh, I have so many doggie pages to scrap. I suppose I will just dedicate an album to her. I guess I better get started on that.

Have a great day all,

Hugs,
Melanie

Daddy's Girls

2008-08-05T10:39:00.001-07:00

Here's a layout I did of Vic and the girls at the daddy daughter breakfast this summer. This was a special one because it was the first time Tori was with us for the event. Vic was so excited to be able to take both his girls.

I used opposites attract cartridge, prima velvet flowers, various buttons, ribbon, ric rac, acrylic bubbles in light and dark pink, Queen & Co plastic flower, paper slab from Hobby Lobby ( thanks Becca!) and scalloped paper from an album kit from Joann's

CTMH Clearance Sale!!!!!!!!!!!!! Today!!!!!!!!!!

2008-08-05T01:21:00.001-07:00

Remember to check out the clearance sale on my website!!!!!!! It starts today at 8am Utah time. The deals are unbelievable and FREE SHIPPING with a $75 order!!!!

Don't miss out. This is a great time to stock up for Christmas, birthdays and Just because gifts. This sale is while supplies last, so hurry and check it out!!!!!!

Have a great day!!!

P.S. I actually did a page, I'll post later today.

Melanie

Welcome Home Missy!!!

2008-08-02T21:19:00.000-07:00

Well today is a historical day for the Carroll Family. We now have a new addition to the family and her name is Missy. She's a sweet, adorable, cuddly lovable West Highland Terrier. Today my husband took the kids to the pet store to look at some puppies. He said he just wanted to see, being that it was so close by. He had some errands to run and said he would just take the kids with him. I declined because I didn't want to get sick, so I figured I would take advantage of the time and try to scrap a page or two. Well, to my surprise 2 hours later, Lexi came running up the stairs " Mom you have to come downstairs, we have a dog!!!!!!!!!" Of course I did not believe her, I thought her dad put her up to it to play a joke on me. I responded, "Oh quit, daddy would never do that to me!!!" So I entertained her by heading down the stairs. When I came around the corner there she was in all her glory, and a hot pink collar, which may I add was fabulous!

For about 2 hours I was in shock and disbelief. I couldn't believe my eyes. This couldn't really be a dog in my house. I couldn't quite wrap my mind around it because I never thought I'd see the day. It's a little emotional for me because I don't know for sure how this is going to work out. But Vic decided we might as well try. So now I am getting adjusted to having this precious little bundle of joy in our home. I welcome all of your prayers though. I pray that the Zyrtek will be enough to maintain me and that eventually I will be fine with her. I am not having any problems yet, but I haven't handled her too much yet, just because I know I have to sing in the morning at church. So please pray that all will go well. She is truly precious. So without further ado, HERE'S MISSY
Kissin on daddy!!!Missy was jumping up for her toy bone, which is clear so you can't see it. There's her cage in the background. She needs to be house trained. She's 4 months old right now.
Missy got her first biscuit for doing a trick
Don't you like pictures taken while you're eating??????
Lexi picked out her toys

Pooped out after all the excitement, gotta love the hot pink collar. I foresee a collection!!!!

2008-08-02T11:34:00.000-07:00

Hi girls!!! Just wanted to let you in on the BIG SALE starting on Aug 5 on my website www.melaniecarroll.myctmh.com . This sale is only available on my ctmh website. It is while supplies last. I've never seen the company do this before. There are 2 pages of products that will be available for purchase.

Paper packets and level 1 kits are $3.00
accessories as low as $2.00
Stamp sets that are normally 22.95 are $8.00
Other stamp sets are 3, 4 and $6.00

All of the supplies are awesome!!!!!!!!!! Don't miss out!!!!!!!!!!!! Take advantage of this sale!!!!!!!!

They are even offering free shipping with any $75.00 order. Stock up for birthdays, Christmas, just because gifts. This is a one time event. It is going to go quick so be there AUG 5 and shop the sale.

Go to my website to view the flyer and some of the goodies that will be available!

Stationary Stand

2008-08-01T18:33:00.001-07:00

Here is my take on the Sassy Stationary Stand that can be found on the Scor- Pal website. The instructor is Rita Kegg. These are great for holding stamped images, which is what I am opting to use it for.

I used the cricut to make the scallop square and the flourish which I covered with stickles, velvet bazzill flower, ctmh button, making memories photo corners, vellum scripture, ribbon from Michaels, stickles on the vellum, cardstock from ctmh (petal), and of course my Scor-Pal to make the projectA view from the side. I punched holes on both sides and tied with ribbon for added decorative flair and secured the sides with a couple of staples

Top view. I am using this to hold stamped images
view from the back

God's purpose or mine?

2008-07-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

My Utmost For His Highest really ministered to my heart this morning. Currently I am struggling with my voice and have been for about 3 months. As some of you may know I used to sing professionally and for the past 7 years have been singing for the Lord. Well, for the past 3 months I just can't seem to get my voice to work. It is hoarse almost everyday and quite a hindrance in my ministry. Yesterday at church, after attempting our morning rehearsal, I grew weary and stepped down. It was too difficult to push through and I just couldn't hit most of the notes because my voice just wasn't there.

Now that I am entering a new season in my life, going back to teaching, I have been wondering what the Lord has been doing. I have wondered if my voice is the way it is because He wants me to focus on the new path He is leading me on or if it is just allergies??? In any case this devotion reminded me that no matter what is happening good or bad, that God wants me to depend on Him and on His power right now. I don't have to think about what He is doing or what the goal is. If I can stay calm, faithful and unconfused while in the middle of the turmoil in life, the goal of the purpose of God is being accomplished in me.

So may we all enjoy the process of the things that we are facing right now and know without a shadow of a doubt, that God is on the throne, is in control and will enable our step by step obedience if we seek Him and that when we do obey, our God would be smiling down upon us and be glorified!!!!

In Jesus name!!!!
Amen

My Utmost For His Highest Devotion

He made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side . . . —Mark 6:45

We tend to think that if Jesus Christ compels us to do something and we are obedient to Him, He will lead us to great success. We should never have the thought that our dreams of success are God’s purpose for us. In fact, His purpose may be exactly the opposite. We have the idea that God is leading us toward a particular end or a desired goal, but He is not. The question of whether or not we arrive at a particular goal is of little importance, and reaching it becomes merely an episode along the way. What we see as only the process of reaching a particular end, God sees as the goal itself.

What is my vision of God’s purpose for me? Whatever it may be, His purpose is for me to depend on Him and on His power now. If I can stay calm, faithful, and unconfused while in the middle of the turmoil of life, the goal of the purpose of God is being accomplished in me. God is not working toward a particular finish— His purpose is the process itself. What He desires for me is that I see "Him walking on the sea" with no shore, no success, nor goal in sight, but simply having the absolute certainty that everything is all right because I see "Him walking on the sea" ( Mark 6:49 ). It is the process, not the outcome, that is glorifying to God.

God’s training is for now, not later. His purpose is for this very minute, not for sometime in the future. We have nothing to do with what will follow our obedience, and we are wrong to concern ourselves with it. What people call preparation, God sees as the goal itself.

God’s purpose is to enable me to see that He can walk on the storms of my life right now. If we have a further goal in mind, we are not paying enough attention to the present time. However, if we realize that moment-by-moment obedience is the goal, then each moment as it comes is precious.

God bless you,

Hugs,

Melanie

Hello!!

2008-07-27T23:46:00.000-07:00

For those who have been stopping by I just wanted to say a quick hello. We just had our crop at the church this weekend and I am just settling in at home. I will be posting some pics hopefully tomorrow of our crop. It was a blessing as usual and the Lord was good. I wanted to give a shout out to those of you gals who brought your prized scrapping tools and machines to share will all of the ladies. I pray that you were abundantly blessed and that you feel the warmth of Jesus' smile upon you as you served to bless the body of Christ!

Till tomorrow! God bless and good night!!!!

Melanie

BFF

2008-07-22T17:02:00.000-07:00

Well how cute is this? My new blogging friend Debs left this for me on her blog. She has the cutest Westy named Fidgit, a precious little girl and a wonderful blog. Check it out by clicking on her name. Thanks my friend, I appreciate it, right back at ya!!

Here are the rules that came along with the card. I know that is sometimes a weird thing so don't worry about them, just be blessed, smile and know that you are being thought of!!!

1. Only 5 people allowed.

2. 4 have to be dedicated followers of your blog

3. One has to be someone new or recently new to your blog and live in another part of the world.

4. You must link back to whoever gave you the award.

So to my dear blogging sisters
Cindy
Adrienne
Leslie
Pauline, my new blogging friend and sister in Christ from the UK

Here's to you. I love that we are able to share what the Lord is doing in our lives and the simple things that make life so sweet!!

Hugs to all,
Melanie

Sketch Challenge

2008-07-21T20:58:00.000-07:00

Here's a card I did for Taylor's cupcake challenge. I know I didn't use a cupcake but you don't have to. The challenge was to use her sketch. The hippo was screaming at me, so I had to use it. It was an image I got from Sabrina. Thanks Sabrina! Better late than never right?

I did however wind up making a cupcake card as well. Hope you enjoy!!!
I used my chalks to shade the hippo and doodlebug buttons with ctmh waxy flax for the holes.
I used groovy blossoms and ctmh cs, crystal blue, sweet leaf, chocolate and hollyhock
Used swiss dots, ctmh boom di ada paper and designer ric rac. I used liquid applique and stickles for the icing and used my ctmh markers to color in the rest!

Teacher Survival Kit

2008-07-20T13:10:00.000-07:00

Well today I turned in my signed contract for the school. So it's official. I am now the 1st grade teacher. I know that it's going to be an exciting year full of surprises and blessing.
I wanted to share this amazing gift that I received today from my friend Cindy. OMG!!! I was so touched when I opened this. It was just so thoughtful and so darn cute. Check it out. Its a teacher survival kit. I absolutely love that whistle, too funny!

She put to use one of those tins that holds K & Co chipboard and covered it with some really neat paper. Look at that handle. She tied every ribbon into bows, it's absolutely darling!! Wow, that's a lot of bows!!!!!!!

It is such a blessing to have friends to share your life with. Those who will rejoice with you, cry with you, and be there through the journey of life. I have never known friendship like this and it is only by the grace of God that I am able to receive this gift. I feel so blessed and grateful for this gift.

Thank you Cindy!!! This will be by my side everyday and will be a special reminder of that very special gift He has given us... the gift of friendship!!!!
Here's the card she made using my favorite ctmh paper "boom di ada"

Happy Birthday Becca!!

2008-07-19T16:50:00.000-07:00

The gang! Me, Terri, Julie, Cindy, Yvette and the birthday girl...BECCA!
Big hugs for a special friend!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cindy and Becca
Julie and Becca
Yvette and Becca
Terri and Becca
The never ending bag of goodies!!!!!
Yum!! Blow out that candle and eat up!!!!
How can you not smile..... that is one happy sundae!

Happy Birthday friend!!!!!!!! These are just some of the pics from our lunch yesterday. After lunch all my crazy girlfriends went to the church with me as I was receiving my teaching contract. They are nuts!!!! I love you all sooooo much and I thank you for loving me and supporting me and always lifting me up in prayer. You are all such a gift to me and I pray that you are all blessed today!!

Becca, I love you and I pray that you feel especially loved today. Happy Birthday !!!! THE NUT FACTORY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
One day when we're all old and wrinkly we are going to laugh at this silliness. I love you girls!!!

What a Day!!!

2008-07-18T23:44:00.000-07:00

Enjoying daddy's time off at Memphis BBQ!!!
It took a few days of trying but we finally found some upholstery thread strong enough to yank that tooth out. Whohoooooo!!!!! Cameron's first lost tooth!
After a little shock, Cameron was happy his tooth was out.

Lexi cut 10 in" for Locks of Love, she was thrilled and loves her new short do!
Wow!!! Is that my girl??????????????
Praise the Lord, some one special will have these precious curls
clip, clip and away!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cameron loved his new spikey do!!!

Well today has been a pretty incredible day. It started off with a wonderful celebration for my friend's birthday. We had lunch and enjoyed some great fellowship, if given permission, I will post some really fun pictures of that!

Then, after some counsel from my gal pal, I made a very special phone call. For the last few months I have been waiting on the Lord regarding going back to work. Not just any kind of work, but back to teaching.... at my home church. Two weeks after submitting my application for our school, I received a call to set up an interview with the principal. That interview was this past Mon. I was generously offered the position and since then have just been waiting for a call back to solidify all the details. I was told it would be a couple of days. After 4 days, I was wondering whether or not I should call to see if everything was okay. Well, I'm glad I did call. After making the call I was told to come in and get my contract.

This has been a very amazing stretch for me because I have been a stay at home mom for the past 8 years and I have been homeschooling as well. My desire has always been to be able to stay home during those formidable years and the Lord allowed that. My next desire has been to be able to be a part of my children's education as well as keep them in a Christian environment.

Being able to go to school with my kids and come home together is such a blessing. To be able to do that in the church that has blessed my life and grown me in my walk is simply unbelievable. To see God opening doors and answering certain cries of my heart is awesome. To have the peace that I am right smack in God's will is priceless. To know that He knows the big picture and is placing me in position for that is exciting. Although I was fearful at first, the Lord assured me that it was okay. That all I needed to do was just obey and take it one step at a time. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought I would be teaching at our school, because we never had a school. But God is a BIG God full of endless possibilities. I am so excited to see what the Lord has for me and my family, and as each day unfolds it will further reveal the big picture that has been written since before I was even created. So praise the Lord!!!

My encouragement to all would be to listen and obey. If God is telling you to act on something then take that step, even if you're trembling. Success is in obedience and the result is up to God!

I praise you Lord for your infinite wisdom and love!!! Be glorified and magnified!!!!!

So these are all the exciting things that happened on July 18, 2008

1. Becca's Birthday
2. I get my contract - 1st grade teacher
3. Cameron gets a haircut
4. Lexi cut's 10" of hair to donate to Locks Of Love
5. Cameron looses his first tooth!!!

Some Cards

2008-07-17T19:10:00.000-07:00

Had some time late last night to work on some cards. Lovin ctmh new BITTY BRADS, they are so great for the little flower centers and come in a variety pack of colors. Used my nestabilities for the scallop circle and just cut off the right end to be flush with the paper. I made this card with simple stamping using some of my favorite CTMH stamp sets "friendship blessing" and "Because of You", ocean ink, chocolate ink, bitty brads, ribbon from Michael's.
Same card in a different color combination: black, white, bubble gumThis is the inside, used the scallop circle nestabilities and paper piercer to make the holes

Another color combination: ocean, white and sweet leaf Ctmh groovy blossoms, ctmh white big blooms, american crafts ribbon, ctmh chocolate cs, ctmh window charms (the clear apoxy bubble over the flower center), ctmh stamp set "friendship word puzzle" Using up those scraps!!!
And my favorite! This is my take on the card on the cover of Cards. I used making memories noteworthy collection pink ledger paper, ctmh chocolate cs, ctmh stampset "Free Spirit" (flourish), ctmh "from me to you" stamp set, leaves from ctmh "angel whispers" stamp set, chocolate and crystal blue ink, prima flowers, textured green paper, hand cut hearts from cranberry cs, Martha Stewart butterfly punch ( I used orange mulberry paper for the butterfly), stamped the thankyou on a transparency in brown stazon, paper piercer and zig zag scissors for the grass, making memories brad, jewel brad from Joann's. The little bird is from the $ stamps at Michael's.

Some Great blogs!!!

2008-07-15T20:29:00.000-07:00

I'm a little late in posting this but Percy my SBS sister left this for me on her blog a couple of weeks ago and today a new blogging friend Ramsey surprised me with it as well. Now I would like to share their blogs with you along with some other blogs that I think are pretty brilliant as well. Check them out if you're looking for inspiration. Thanks again Percy and Ramsey, right back at ya! All of your visits and comments mean so much to me and bring a smile to my face. Blessings to all of my blogging friends!!!!

The rules for this award:

1. The winner can put the logo on her blog.

2. Link the person you received your award from.

3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.

4. Put links of those blogs on yours.

5. Leave a message on the blogs of the girls you've nominated.

Here are some to check out as well as all the talented ladies on my sidebar, thanks for sharing your talents!!!
Patter
Taylor
Katherina
paperbling

Summer Fun!!!

2008-07-13T23:06:00.000-07:00

Here's a layout I did for Becky Fleck's new blog challenge. I used CTMH Floral Tapesty Paper packet and Ocean CS as well as a half a sheet from the All Dressed Up Stack.

Prima flowers, doodlebug buttons, CTMH waxy flax for button holes
Heidi Swapp bling circles and Heidi Swapp photo corner stamp
CTMH He Said, She Said stamp set, ocean CS, cranberry ink, clear buttons, cranberry waxy flax, clear vellum sayings $ spot Target, ric rac and staples
I painted my chipboard letters with white paint and create a shade, inked the edges with ocean ink, and used liquid glass to apply the clear plastic pebbles

Bella Card Holder

2008-07-11T00:58:00.001-07:00

I made this accordian style card holder to hold stamped images of bellas. One of my SBS sisters made one to hold our swap images and I just loved the idea so I created one especially for Bella's. I used CTMH boom di ada papers, spot on background stampset, a Bella image from Jenn (thanks you're such a sweetie!), CTMH designer ric rac, holly hock ink, CTMH markers (hollyhock, olive, buttercup, parchment for skin), prima flowers, CTMH bitty brads, stickles and dot's and dashes ribbon. The holder opens up like an accordian file from the side. Super easy, super cute and super useful, that's what I like.

Smiles,
Melanie

To Be or not to Be?????

2008-07-07T19:54:00.000-07:00

Our first stop on our journey to find a hypoallergenic dog that would work for me
A little sleep at first but oh so cute!!!!
Now she was ready to play. We took her in our car to see if I would get asthmatic or allergic
I just wanted to eat her up. She's a west highland terrier
Ok, so we named her Missy, even though she wasn't ours, I just couldn't resist
She fits right in, not camera shy, posing for a scrapbook page!!!!
Lexi was in love
Cameron too!
She really loved Vic
And Vic was very fond of Missy!
ATTACK!!!!!!!!!!!! that pony tail. That a girl Missy!!!! She actually got his hair tie out, too funny!

Well, this was a pretty emotional day for me. I have been allergic to dogs all my life and very asthmatic. Having a dog has always been a desire but not very realistic. However the other day when I went to get my hair done, the lady next to me told me she too was very allergic and highly asthmatic but was able to get 2 dogs. They were the mini schnauzers. First we went to our local pet store and tried out a west highland terrier. It went pretty well. I tried the mini schnauzers after but they got me sick right away.

Missy, the west highland terrier, had been bathed before we got herand the store owner let us take her to our car and hang out for over an hour with her. I didn't really get asthmatic but I broke out everywhere she licked me or touched me with her nails. I am allergic to the protein in dog saliva. The dander was not bad though, which is why I did well with my breathing. I felt a little something in my chest but wasn't really sure if it would get worse or not. I prayed that God would just confirm what we should do and close the doors if it wasn't meant to be. I don't know that it would be smart to get a dog and then find out I am too allergic and risk breaking all of our hearts as well as compromising my health. I have thought about allergy shots and perhaps building an immunity to her but again I just don't know. So in the prayer closet it remains, but I think it's leaning more to the "not to be" side.

Thought I'd share these pics because she was just too cute. I haven't been this close to an animal in a long time, so I thought I would enjoy these memories and be grateful for the opportunity.

Count your blessings!!! and Be Blessed!!!!

Melanie

Blessings on the 4th!!!

2008-07-05T11:19:00.000-07:00

Vic, me and the kids

First time holding a sparkler, I know I'm 35, so it took a little while!!!!!!!!!

The kids loved the sparklers and the neighbors were so kind and generous to share!!!
Terri and Cindy!!!

I won a basket at ULTA!!!!!!!!!! whoo hooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hello! I hope you all had a great 4th of July! This year we decided not to go the park that we usually go to. Instead we stayed on the block and sure enough the neighbors had a great big show planned. Fireworks went off for at least an hour. The kids got to play with sparklers and heck I got to hold my first sparkler ever. I know it only took 35 years! In any case it was nice to be home and enjoy some fellowship with girlfriends.

I also received a call from ULTA saying I won the first prize basket in their drawing, I couldn't believe it. I have never won anything before. So of course I headed right over there to see what I'd won and wowee!!!!!. Tons of make up and skin care for days to come. I was like a kid in a candy store and sounded like one too!!! Thank you Lord, what a blessing!

Glam Girl Layout

2008-07-03T01:03:00.000-07:00

This layout is from my daughter's 7th birthday last Oct. Ok so it took me awhile to scrap them but considering the last birthday of hers that I scrapped was when she turned 1, I'm really doing good!!

For the title I painted the chipboard letters with white paint and then a layer of CTMH create a shade to add iridescence, then I ran them through my xyron sticker maker and then covered them with CTMH prisma glitter. I also did that for the chipboard star as well as add silver stickles to outline it. The bl/wh paper is from CTMH stylin, the glitter paper and pink/silver paper is from the DCWV or whatever those letters are supposed to be, lol. I I used my sizzix to cut the stars and the rhinestone strips are from the Dollar Spot at Target, they are body tatoos.

Scrappin Through my Daughter's Eyes

2008-07-03T00:09:00.000-07:00

Today Lexi decided to start on one of her albums. She was blessed with a stash of supplies last year for her birthday and Christmas. After a very productive day of homeschool, I rewarded Lexi by allowing her to scrap in my craft room and use whatever supplies of mine that she wanted. Fortunately, I held on to an old stash of supplies which contains tons of stickers and embellishments for all occasions. Many of them worked for her. Lexi amazed me today. I sat working on my 2 page layout all day, while she whipped out page after page. She knows what she likes and doesn't waste anytime. No need to look at magazines or online boards for inspiration for this 7 year old. I simply gave her some pictures I had lying around my scrap room and she took it from there. I took a video because I was amazed by her activity. I just need to figure out how to post it. We'll keep you up to date with the progress of her first album. 8x8 is a great size for kids. She even figured out how many was too many pictures for one page. Oh to be as quick as her, that's my goal!

Doubt Your Doubts

2008-07-01T16:26:00.000-07:00

July 1, 2008

Doubt Your Doubts

Mary Southerland

Today's Truth

Hebrews 11:1 Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

Friend to Friend

Billy Graham once said, "Most of us do not understand nuclear fission, but we accept it. I don't understand television, but I accept it. I don't understand radio, but every week my voice goes out around the world, and I accept it. Why is it so easy to accept all these man-made miracles and so difficult to accept the miracles of the Bible?"

Faith is a personal issue and often demands that we give up what we can see for what we cannot see, but just because we can't see it, doesn't mean it isn't there. Let me share some ways to weaken your doubts and strengthen your faith:

Read the bible consistently.

Romans 10:17 Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.

You may have heard the familiar Old Chinese saying, "There is a good dog and a bad dog fighting within each of us. The one that is going to win is the one we feed the most". The same is true when it comes to faith and doubt. We weaken our doubt by strengthening our faith in God. The Word of God feeds the new nature God gives us when we surrender our life to Him. As that new nature grows stronger, the old sinful nature becomes weaker and as that old nature becomes weaker, faith in God grows. A steady diet of the Word produces strong faith. Read the bible each day. Memorize a verse of scripture each week.

Turn to God constantly.

Mark 9:14-29 tells of the man who brings his demon-possessed son to Jesus Christ and pleads, "If you can do anything, take pit on us and help us". Jesus responds, "If I can! All things are possible to him who believes". The dad exclaimed, "Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief!"

Sounds just like us! We believe but we also doubt. In those moments, we must be honest enough to cry out to God! Jesus didn't punish this man for his doubt. He healed his son. God always responds to honesty!

Focus on God continually.

Psalm 34:6 This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.

We focus on the mountain while crying out to God for help, wondering if He really will do anything. We need to remember what God promises and does not promise. God does not promise to remove the mountain or that we will even understand the mountain. However, God does promise to help us climb the mountain and He does promise to climb it with us. We must make the continual choice to fix our gaze on God and our glance on the circumstances. When doubt comes, refuse it.

Seek out faith-builders persistently.

Ecclesiastes 4:12 And one standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer; three is even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.

We need to look for people who will encourage us to be faithful instead of constantly looking for ways to undermine our faith. Did you hear about the farmer that had a brilliant dog? He also had a neighbor that was negative - no matter what. If it was raining, the farmer would say to his neighbor, "Boy, look at it rain. God's washing everything clean." The neighbor said, "Yeah, but if this rain keeps up, it's going to flood." Then the sun would come out and the neighbor would say, "If it keeps that up, it's going to burn the crops." The farmer thought, "What am I going to do with this guy?" He made a plan! The farmer trained his dog to walk on water. He didn't tell his neighbor - just took him duck hunting. Boom! Boom! They got two ducks. The farmer said to his dog, "Go get 'em." The dog sprinted across the water, picked up the ducks and hopped back in the boat, nothing wet, just his paws. With a confident smile, the farmer asked his doubting neighbor, "What do you think of that?" The neighbor quickly replied, "He can't swim, can he?" Do you know people like the neighbor? Run from the doubters in your life. We struggle enough with doubt on our own and should not compound it by investing time in doubters and cynics. Look for people who walk in faith, who believe God and study His Word. They will encourage and build your faith while weakening your doubts.

Women have so much in common. We have the same problems, the same fears and the same doubts. Don't let fear and doubt wreak havoc in your heart and mind. Stay in God's Word. Don't be afraid or ashamed to cry out to Him when you are afraid. Keep your eyes on Him and look for other women who do the same. Will you join me in a new commitment to becoming a woman of faith? Remember, when doubt knocks on the door, just send faith to answer it - and you will find no one there!

Let's pray

Father God, I want to become a woman of faith, but I am so weak. I constantly battle fear and my faith seems so small. Please give me a new thirst for Your Word. I choose to focus on You, Father, instead of focusing on my circumstances. Help me to find faith and to be a faith-builder each day. I now turn to You, Lord.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Now it's Your Turn

Make a list of your top five fears.
Choose one verse from today's devotion for each fear.
When that fear comes, cry out to God and pray that verse of Scripture aloud.
Memorize Proverbs 3:5-6 and record it in your journal.
Share your decision to be a woman of faith with other women who have the same desire.

Hugs,

Melanie

2 Wolves

2008-06-30T14:09:00.001-07:00

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people.

He said:
"My son, the battle is between 'two wolves' inside us all... One is Evil: It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is Good: It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith."

The grandson thought about it for a minute, and then asked his grandfather: "Which wolf wins?"

The old Cherokee simply replied: "The one you feed.

Have a great day,
Be blessed
And be a blessing to others

Melanie

Only a few days left!!!

2008-06-27T11:09:00.000-07:00

Only a few days left for STAMPAGANZA!!!! Buy 2 get 1 FREE stamp sets for the month of June only. Don't forget to get your order in before the end of the month. Please call or email me your order if you are local. I'll be placing the order on Sun. Visit my website for further info

Smiles,

Melanie

The Ocean

2008-06-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here's a layout from our recent trip to Delray Beach, Fl. Cameron just loved the ocean, the sand in his toes, the waves and of course his water toys.

The journaling is in black pen around the photos

Supplies

Paper: CTMH Free Spirit paper pack
Accessories: chipboard letters, CTMH chalk, black ZIG pen for journaling, vellum quotes

The Circus!!!!

2008-06-21T22:40:00.000-07:00

Fun with our friends!!!!!! Enjoying those front row seats.
How fun! We ran into Jade at the circus, Great hat!!!!!
Our friends!!!!!!!!!!
The fearless ring master!!!!
I couldn't get any clear pictures because it was so dark, most all the animal ones are too blurry to show, rats!!!
Boys will be boys, that's my Cameron!
They put 7 motorcycles in that cage, it was amazing to see live!
We loved the elephants, they were trained in hip hop, lol, cuz they were dancin and boppin

This is one of the clowns in one of his many costumes

Well, Ringling Bros & Barnum and Bailey came to Vegas!!! We went to the Orleans Arena to see it and it was amazing. God's favor was all over our day today. First we found parking right in front of the arena, which is very rare and then to our surprise we discovered that our seats were the front row on the floor!!! Up close and personal.

To top it all off, Lexi was asked to participate in a skit with one of the clowns!!! It was very fun and for sure will live in our memory forever. God is good and we are thankful for our fun trip to the circus.

Family Love

2008-06-19T16:30:00.000-07:00

Well, my step daughter left yesterday to go back to TN. It was such a great week that we had together and I was sad to see it end, so I took comfort in the Lord and the wonderful memories that He has allowed us to share by scrappin this page. She is truly a lovely young lady and her brother and sister are so blessed to have her in their life. We love you Tori always and forever!!!

Supplies:

Stamps: CTMH Spot on Backgrounds
Ink: CTMH Crystal Blue
Paper: CTMH white daisy, All dressed up paper stack,
Accessories: CTMH buttond, KI memories metallic letters

Girlfriends of God

2008-06-16T18:54:00.000-07:00

I found this to be so comforting for my own personal situation, but don't we all have a situation??? This scripture from Corinthians 12 is so powerful and helps to put life into perspective. Life doesn't seem to get any easier and we know we are going to face difficult times in our lives however with the Lord we don't have to be weak, cast down or defeated. We literally can be empowered and strong in our struggles by the power of His Holy Spirit!!! Amen and thank you Lord. I pray that whatever circumstance that you may be facing that you will see it as an opportunity for God to move powerfully in your life. Enjoy this devotion by girlfriends of God. Their website is on my side bar.

June 16, 2008

The King's Kids

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth

"But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong" (2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NIV).

Friend to Friend

The angels were hovering low in our church on this particular Sunday morning. It was a special day for a group of ten "kids" known as the King's Kids. They were leading worship by singing a special song -- only many of the kids couldn't carry a tune, walk on their own, or even control their limbs. We sat in silence as the unlikely band of worship leaders stumbled onto the stage. Each of these children of God had a disability and visible handicap. The "Kids" lined up on the stage, many with adults standing behind them to support them, both physically and emotionally. Kristen, a young lady with Down's syndrome appeared to be the leader. She stood out in front of the others with confidence and strength of passion.

The sound track began and the King's Kids began to "sing" with their hands in sign language. "Press on," their hands proclaimed. With wide sweeping motions and uninhibited praise, Kristen sang with arms and hands to the One who loved her most.

There was one girl in particular who caught my eye. She was not able to do the signs by herself. Her limbs were much too weak and uncontrolled. I watched as this gal leaned into a woman standing behind her and surrendered her arms and hands. While the others signed the words to the song, the woman moved her young challenged hands in tandem with the others. Beth simply leaned into her helper and relinquished control.

Then God spoke to my heart, That is what I want you to do. Lean into me, relinquish control, and allow me to move your life in a symphony of worship.

We all have disabilities. Some are visible to the naked eye and some are hidden except to the trained eye. While the handicaps vary, God longs for each one of us to do as Beth did on that Sunday morning. Lean into Him, relinquish control, and allow God to move us to His song.

There was not a dry eye in the 2,000 seat sanctuary. Their disabilities were visible, yet those of us who sat in the pews had disabilities that were not visible to the naked eye, but just as real. God turns our "disabilities" into our abilities when we lean into Him and allow His strength to work through our weaknesses.

As God said to Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9NIV). Therefore, I say with Paul, "I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong" (2 Corinthians 1:9-10 NIV).

Today, lean into God and allow Him to move your hands and feet to the song that He is singing for you.

Let's Pray

Dear Lord, thank You that when I am weak, You are strong. Take my hands and feet and move them to Your rhythm of life. I yield myself totally to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Now It's Your Turn

How would you describe your willingness to give up control of your life to God?

What are some areas that you tend to hang onto?

What do you think would happen if you gave control of your life totally to God?

Blessings!!!

2008-06-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hello my friends!! I hope you all had a great Sunday. We went to church and then celebrated Father's Day at our favorite BBQ place. How did you all celebrate Father's Day???? I would love to hear about it!

Yesterday a friend of mine said she had a surprise for me, I thought "hmmn a surprise????" It's not my birthday, it's not Christmas....

After church she pleasantly greeted me with this beautiful gift bag, a smile and hug and then we parted ways. I have been going through a bit of a transition in my schedule and have been in a quiet place lately, seeking direction from the Lord. I have not been very active on my blog and a little unsure of where the Lord is taking me. Being the emotional person that I am I have been experiencing a rush of different feelings. Sometimes a little hug or an encouraging word from a friend can make all the difference. Well the Lord allowed a conversation to take place in which I could share my heart and all of the confusing emotions that have been flooding my heart. I love how when you least expect it, the Lord sets up a divine appointment. To me that was such a blessing. I love the gift of friendship and the way the Lord can bring comfort and healing through those friendships.

So as if this wasn't enough of a blessing, I open the gift bag given to me from my friend and out pops 4 BELLA'S!!!! I took a second look, because I don't actually own any. Yep, they were Bella's!!! I couldn't believe it. Now I get excited over a new pencil, so imagine my retardedness over 4 Bella stamps. WOW! What can I say, I was speechless.

Ya see, the thing that blessed me the most was the fact that my friend knew me! There's nothing sweeter than feeling loved and cared for and that is how I felt when I opened that surprise.

It takes time to know someone and to know the little stupid things that really don't mean anything yet can mean everything. God is so good to allow us to enjoy the little things in life but the gift of friendship is precious and priceless. It takes work, time and interest to truly care for someone and I pray that you all have someone in your life that's worth that investment. I encourage you all to take the time to know someone and to bless someone today. Just a smile, a hug, a handmade card, a lunch date, an encouraging word ..... this just might be what someone needs. See how you can bless someone today, you'll be blessed that you did!!!!

Thanks Becca! I love you stupid head!!!!!!! (trust me y'all she likes it when I call her that don't ya?)

Smiles and Hugs,

Melanie

You Rock!

2008-06-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

How fun!!! Just received this very cool You Rock my Socks award from Aimee, whose blog definitely rocks!!! So you'll want to make sure you check Aimee's blog out on my sidebar under SBS sisters. She always has something rockin and on top of it she is a total sweetie. Gotta love it. I am looking forward to scrappin all these vacation photos so keep an eye out! But for now...

Check out CTMH.com to view some cool project videos as seen on PBS. They feature some great stamping techniques and a mini album made with our card kits. This website definitely rocks!!!

Buy 2 get 1 FREE CTMH stampsets!!!!!

2008-06-12T01:17:00.000-07:00

Stampaganza!

It’s back! Buy two My Acrylix® stamp sets and select a third stamp set of your choice FREE!*

Whether you’re a long-time crafter or brand-new stamper, now is the perfect time to grow your collection of My Acrylix® decorative stamp sets! From June 3–30, 2008, when you purchase two stamp sets at full retail price you will receive a thirdstamp set of your choice FREE*—a savings of up to $22.95! OUR EXCLUSIVE MY ACRYLIX® STAMP SETS are the most innovative in the industry.They’re easy to use, simple to store, and offer you precision and versatility, allowing you to stamp in exactly the right spot time after time. Add to your collection now! BUY TWO, GET ONE FREE!!!

This doesn't come around very often so stock up!!!! To order visit my website and have your order delivered right to your door step!!! If you are local please call me and I can place the order for you and hand deliver it to you!

Don't forget about the stamp of the month, which you can earn for free with your $100 order!!! Happy Shopping!!!

Smiles,
Melanie

Our trip to grandma's and pop-pop's

2008-06-11T22:39:00.000-07:00

Me and my hunny!!!

me, my mom and my brother

my mom, me and my aunt Olga...

me and mom....my mommy!!!!!

me and my brother

Me and my sister in law Silvia at my brother's 40th b-day party!

my mom, me and my dad... we were watching the kids fish with pop pop and daddy.

Lexi and my dad...grandpa

Lexi and pop-pop

Lexi and grandma...always such a sweet reunion!

Me, my mom, Lexi and Cameron enjoying some puzzles from Uncle Mike & Aunt Silvia at my brother's house. Congrats on your first home!!!!

Fishing at grandma's and pop-pops! Sun fish and catfish were the hot fish for the day!!!

Here we are at Delray Beach, it was simply gorgeous!

Cameron always a step behind finding treasure.

Here's our humble little sand castle...such fun for the kids

Daddy thought it would be fun to bury Cameron in the sand and he was right!

No more fear of the ocean, Cameron was having a blast in the water

Here's daddy hard at work!!!

Thank you Lord for your amazing creation and for the simple pleasures in life!!!!

Hello!!!!!

2008-06-10T13:44:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!! Well we made it home. It's a pretty interesting story but I don't have time to go into it now. My step daughter just flew in yesterday and we have a jam packed week ahead of us. My computer is broken but fortunately I have my laptop. I will post pics and lots of stories soon. I have missed seeing everyone's blog and how everyone is doing. Can't wait to catch up. Hope you are all well.

God bless,
& Smiles,

Melanie

Longing for you!!!

2008-05-30T22:11:00.001-07:00

A quick card I made with an image Sabrina sent to me from Japan. Thanks Sabrina!! This one will be a cute one for my hubby!I used CTMH markers in shades of yellow to color in the giraffe and cranberry for the hearts. Also used our double sided textured cardstock.

RAK!!!!

2008-05-30T21:57:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm taking a quick break from packing to post this very sweet RAK. OMG, when my hunny came in tonight he had the mail and to my very big surprise was a package from Aimee. She sent me this pretty card and instructions and materials to make this purse album. I was just astounded by her kindness. In the craziness of my day, trying to prepare for our trip to Florida this random act of kindness made me feel warm and fuzzy inside. Aimee, you are such a sweetie!! Those papers are gorgeous and the colors are scrumptious. Be sure to check out Aimee's blog!!!!

I've been tagged!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-30T02:47:00.000-07:00

The rules of the game get posted at the beginning. Each player answers the questions about themselves. At the end of the post, the player then tags 5-6 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know they’ve been tagged and asking them to read your blog. Let the person who tagged you know when you’ve posted your answer.

1. Ten Years Ago
10 years ago I met my husband and I was singing with my band in Las Vegas at Caesars Palace.

2. 5 Things in todays 'To Do List'

1. Read my thru the word
2. finish laundry for our trip
3. get my nails done, go to post office
4. Get food for our last dinner before we leave
5. Pack and clean up the house

3. Snacks I enjoy.
1. Kashi
2. better n butter from Trader Joes with a banana
3. fruit

4. Things I would do If I was a Millionaire
I would do whatever the Lord instructed me to do at the time and pray that I could be a blessing to someone in need.

5. Places I have Lived
1. New Jersey, where I grew up
2. My college years I lived in New Brunswick
3. At 22 I moved to Las Vegas where I have been for the past 13 years

I am now going to pass this fab tag on to some of my blogging pals - hope you haven't already had it!

Cindy
Adrienne
Leslie
Caroline
Sonja
Vicki

Celebrate The Battle

2008-05-29T11:10:00.000-07:00

Good morning friends!!! If you are in need of a good devotion and happen to be going through some trials, check out Girlfriends in God on my side bar. I know so often when the going gets tough it's hard to look up, it's hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel and it's hard to understand what God is doing. Often times we can become downcast and discouraged, we even fail to praise God.

However it is in the midst of these difficult times that God is usually trying to do something amazing. It's then when we must walk by faith and not by sight. We must take our eyes off our circumstances and fix our eyes on God. We must remember that He is the God of all creation, His ways are higher than our ways, He knows the beginning from the end, so does He not know how to handle our circumstance???? Of course He does and much better than we know how to. He wants us to completely trust Him and surrender our will to His so that He can bless us. So while you're going through your trial, remember to praise Him and thank Him for what He is doing in your life even if you don't understand.

Here's an excerpt from the devotion

Praise is not a feeling but a choice, a step of obedience taken without the assurance of a changed circumstance or the elimination of a trial. Praise focuses on God, not the circumstance, and fixes its gaze upon God's truth and God's character instead of the trial at hand or just ahead. That is why we can celebrate the battle before it begins. The outcome is neither our responsibility nor our goal. Praise begins and ends with faith in the very nature, personality and integrity of God...and that never changes.

More from the Girlfriends

Our praises are a gift to God. What an amazing thought! God listens for and longs to hear the praises of His children. Busy schedules, crowded lives and chaotic hearts can keep us from sifting through circumstances to find the seed of victory...to praise Him. What has God done for you, friend? Take the time today to stop and praise Him. He will be pleased and you will be blessed.

Card for a friend!!!

2008-05-29T10:11:00.000-07:00

Here's a little cupcake card that I made for a sweet friend! Again I used my stickles for the icing and some ribbon that Sabrina sent me from Japan, which I lOVE!!!! I also used my new 8x8 glitter pads from DCWV, love that blingy paper,although it doesn't seem to be showing up very well in the photo.

Have a great day everyone!!!!!!!!!!!! I'll try to post some more later!!!

Thanks Tina!!!

2008-05-27T14:56:00.000-07:00

Here's the award that Tina gave me . Check out Tina's blog!! Thanks Tina, so very kind of you!!!
I thought I would post some pics of where I get scrappy! This is my little pink and brown make shift craft room. It's a retreat off of our master bedroom and overlooks the downstairs of my house as well as the upstairs loft and hallway to their rooms. This works out as I'm able to see and hear the kids while I'm in there. It's slowly closing in on me. I need to add cabinets to the other side still, that should help with storage.

So here it is my scrappy haven!!! I painted some peg board pink and covered the whole wall with it to house my tools and embellishments. I love having things out and in front of me. I used my cricut to cut out the names of my stations, Tools/Embellishments. I still need to hang my storage shelves on the left wall for extra storage and display.

Cubes are from Target. They hold my CTMH cardstock and the files have patterned paper all organized by color.
The right side of the desk top is where I hang my embellishments and my cricut. I have a rolling cart that I altered and that has all my immediate tools - adhesives, stamping/chalk supplies, distressing tools, embossing stuff and stickles
This is the other side of the room. I got the canvas baskets from Walmart and have them labeled. One bookshelf has all of my books (bible study, inspirational etc) The other bookshelf houses my sizzix and cuttlebug tools. The baskets on the top shelf hold fabric and flowers, the bottom shelf holds my punches and some albums and kits.
Here's the french doors that open up to my room. I have a small craft table that I love. My mom bought it for me years ago so it is very special to me.

This other table I got from Sam's Club and I use it for my sizzix station as well as for my daughter when she wants to create too. The book shelf to the right holds inspiration books, and the canvas baskets are from Lowes. They fold flat and were only 4.99 each. They hold embellishments of all sorts.
Here's the inside of my cabinets which I got from Lowes, I think. The first one holds all my old woodies. Got the plastic cases at Joannes for half price.The next cabinet holds some more wood stamps as well as my foam stampls which are in the plastic containers and my Xyron machines and adhesives. The top container holds some ribbon spools.
This cabinet holds some embellishment boxes and some misc. supplies. I need to put this cabinet to better use. The last cabinet holds my CTMH acrylic stamps.I also have extra markers adhesive and envelopes in this cabinet. Below is the bench seat my husband built from scratch for me. It was a gift for Valentines Day a few years ago!!! He's the bomb!

The cabinets under the bench seat hold my albums and photos/memorabilia. These jars line the entire length of my counter top. We eat a lot of Better n butter peanut butter from Trader Joe's and the jars are just perfect for holding flowers and ribbon. I used my coluzzle to cut circles of PP to cover the tops. I used CTMH More to Adore as the inspiration for my room.
This was a pink shelf unit for a baby's room I got from Target 7 years ago. I never took it out of the box. It was meant for my daughter's room but instead it wound up in here!

I use it to hang these little $1 baskets from Target to hold flowers and accessories. The shelf holds my cricut cartridges and my beloved Primas.

Well that's it. I am still working on getting more cabinets put up an my window treatment but for now it works and it makes me happy. Hope that inspires somebody!!!

Happy scrappin,
Melanie

My First Bella Card!!!

2008-05-27T02:19:00.000-07:00

I finally got a chance to play with my Bella images that Jenn sent me. Oh what fun!
I used a lot of stickles for the cupcake, prima flowers, CTMH autumn craft buttons, Teen Girl PP (retired CTMH), sunny yellow marker for her hair, bubblegum marker for her dress and shoes, peach whip re-inker with blending pen, chalk with the blending pen for her skin, corner punch to make the round scallop circle and the side scallops, simple stitches for the bubblegum polka dots along the sides, shimmery ric rac attached with liquid glass, and some pink rhinestones for the flower centers.
Thanks again Jenn!!! I just love her!!!

A couple of Cards!!!

2008-05-26T22:30:00.000-07:00

These are the images I am sending out for my SBS 16 image swap. Thought I would show a couple of samples using the images. Used Spot on Backgrounds stamp set to make the pink polka dot paper and my cuttlebug EF for the yellow and black paper.

Simple Beauty and Creative Basics Paper and ric rac. The little bird house is Studio G.

RAK!!!!

2008-05-26T22:08:00.000-07:00

Here's the card Jenn made and sent to me with all of these images. She stamped 4 of each Bella!!!
Ok, so I was so wanting some of these Bellas and lo and behold what came in the mail but these incredible images from Jenn!!!! Check out her blog!!! She's super cool!! I was so touched by her kindness and like a kid at a candy store all at the same time. Check out the beautiful card she sent along with it, OMG!!! I really will need some practice but I hope to have some cards to show with these adorable Bellas soon. Thank you so much Jenn, your a sweetie!!!

Happy Memorial Day!!!! From our Family to Yours!!!

2008-05-26T13:16:00.000-07:00

We just wanted to take a minute on this special day of remembrance to let all of you who serve or have defended our country know how much we honor, admire, and appreciate the sacrifice of your service to this great country, that allowed myself and my children to live our lives in a truly free society. Freedom doesn't come free, it comes from brave men and women like you, who are willing to give their lives for a cause that is greater than any one of us. Also, it came from the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross over 2,000 years ago. We are the only country in the history of the world to declare our allegiance to God and his finished work of redemption through Christ, and because of this he has made us the greatest, strongest, most prosperous nation to ever exist on earth. Once again, thank you for your service and sacrifice, may God richly bless you, and may God bless America!

Kreative Blogger!!!

2008-05-25T23:41:00.000-07:00

Well to my surprise when I got home I saw that I was awarded the Kreative blogger award. My SBS 16 sister Stacy passed this on to me, so please go check out her blog. She's got some great stuff on there!!! I so appreciate all the inspiration that I get from all of you out there. You are all so talented. Thanks again and now I will pass the award on to a few other creative gals.

Vicki, Sonja, Adrienne,
Jenn

CCGV May Crop!!!

2008-05-25T22:31:00.002-07:00

Well, I'm back from the crop and I am alive!!!!! I wish I had a bunch of creative projects to show but I was not able to get anything completed. I was pretty busy manning the store, doing classes and answering questions. Once again it was a blessed time and I hope all the girls enjoyed themselves. However, my scor-pal came in the mail the night before the crop so I took some time on Sat to get acquainted with it and I think I will be addicted to that thing. Oh my, I'm glad I gave in and got it. There are so many awesome projects you can complete with that thing! I started a few things that I am going to try to finish up tonight and tomorrow, then I will post. For now I'll leave you with some pictures from our crop.

Julie, Me and Becca
Me and my pal Cindy, thanks for helping to haul all the stuff to the crop!!!!
Me and Natalie our MC for the weekend!!! Great job!!!
The creative corner store tables
Displaying some swap items for inspiration
I can't do anything without my partner in crime. How does this name tag go on!!!!!!

Showing how to color images using markers and watercolor pencils
Aren't these acrylic stamps the bomb!!!! Here's a cute set "Flower Child"
Showing the girls different distressing techniques
Check out our foam tools they're awesome for distressing and making circles!!!
We used the lockers in the youth room to display some layouts.
Here's my duster from the Dollar Tree, put a little ribbon on it and dust in style!
Here's the card for the card class. It was made by Julie using CTMH Card Confidence program 3, Creative Basics paper kit, and Friendship Word Puzzle stampset

We kicked off our raffles with a little Deal or no Deal. Our contestant won the Cherish book!!!!

Itinerary:

Fri we started at 4:00, then at 7:00 we had a card class, at 8:00 Technique Time and at 10:00 Deal or no Deal. Lights out at 12:00!

Sat at 10:00 we had a layout class, at 1:30 Faithbooking 101, at 4:00 Faithbooking 102

We had a crop swap table where you could trade your trash for treasure, a snack table 24/7 and breakfast, lunch and dinner on Sat all for $20.00 per person. Did I mention that the card and 2 page layout were free. God is good!!!! We raffled off 20 products from Close to my Heart and had a goody bad at every table on Fri. Calvary Chapel knows how to bless!!!!! The next crop will be in July and will accommodate more ladies so if you think you want to come, let me know!!!!!!

How Sweet!!!!

2008-05-23T10:32:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am so needing to be packing my stuff for the crop but wanted to check my blog really quick and to my surprise I was left a special treat!!! Caroline one of my SBS 16 sisters awarded me the Kreative Blogger Award. Well, there's a first for everything, right.

You must check out Caroline's blog. She has been coloring in images and they are unbelievable, they look like they came right out of a magazine. Check out the technique that she used and give it a try. I know that it inspired me to give it a go.

Thanks Caroline, you're a sweetie and I'll try to live up to the award and post some more "Kreative projects".

Happy stampin!!!!!!!
Happy scrappin!!!!!!

Melanie

Crop at Calvary Chapel!!!

2008-05-22T22:28:00.000-07:00

Well hello everyone!!! Our quarterly crop is finally upon us and I am so excited. Due to the crop I will not be posting anything new until after the weekend, I should have lots to post by then. I pray that you all have a blessed weekend.

Check out some of my friends websites on my sidebar to the left, Becca sells Longaberger which is absolutely beautiful and of the highest quality and Adrienne has a diaper cake business, totally cute gifts for every occasion. And don't forget Leslie's bowtique - 25% off your entire order this weekend!!!

Blessings,
Melanie

SALE!!!

2008-05-21T18:32:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Check out my girlfriend Leslie's bowtique. She makes the cutest hair accessories for kids and everything in your cart will be 25% off in honor of Memorial Day. You can access her site anytime from my side bar, bowsandberry

Have a great day!!

Melanie

White daisy ink

2008-05-20T21:58:00.000-07:00

I had some requests for step by step instructions on how to use CTMH stamps. So for those of you who are new to stamping, what you see is an acrylic peel and self stick stamp on an acrylic block. You can see through these stamps so it's pretty fool proof. You simply peel the stamp off the contact sheet place it on the block, ink it up and stamp away. I love acrylics because they are so space efficient and easy to store! If your stamp seems like it's not sticky, simply rinse it in warm water with liquid soap and it will become good as new.If you would like more info check out my website

Place your acrylic stamp on your acrylic block and ink up your stamp well
Pounce on your pad a few times until it is covered well with ink
With steady firm pressure stamp your image onto your cardstock (CS), don't rock your stamp or it will smudge!
Here's what you'll get. The white daisy ink is very wet so don't touch your stamped image
Take a sponge dauber, that's what's on my finger, and rub it in your chalk, oops I dropped them! Don't do that, lol.
With an up and down motion, dab your dauber onto the white ink until it is covered with your choice of chalk color
Use fan brush or mini duster to brush off any excess chalk, I got this one at the Dollar Tree and added some ribbon to it. I use it whenever I use sandpaper too, it brushes off my surface well.
And here's the finished project. Now use it to create a card. Sorry, didn't have time to do that yet.

Here are some other samples using the chalkboard technique. I used the dot in GROOVY to make the polka dot background, how fun!! See how our stamp sets are packaged???? In a hard plastic envelope that snaps shut. Each set comes with a foam sheet inside. This is for you to place under your paper so that you get a good stamped image, it really does make a difference on detail stamps.

This is It's a Party stamp set, I love this one too!!!! Very fun set.

I hope this helps!!!! Happy stamping and stay tuned for my next tutorial. I'm working on getting my video tutorials set up!!!! Stamping 101 is on it's way....

Thinking of You Chalkboard Technique

2008-05-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

Here' a card I created using the chalkboard technique. I just love this little ladybug baby. It's from CTMH Flower Child stamp set. The sentiment is from this month's SOM Say it in Style. I used my summer chalks and CB embossing folders. I colored in my little baby bug using CTMH ink and my blending pen. Just thought he would be perfect laying in these flowers!!!!

A day in the life!!!!!

2008-05-19T22:31:00.001-07:00

Today we spent some time at the pool and as always the kids had a crazy fun time. Today was extra special because Lexi caught a butterfly. We don't get to see very many here in Vegas, but today we were blessed by a friendly white and black fluttering friend. Lexi crept up slowly and placed her little bug catcher over it and viola, she was able to capture it. She did not keep it for long as she wanted to see her friend flying free. However she kept it long enough to try to feed it and take a closer look.

thankful for simple pleasures,
Melanie

Chalkboard Technique

2008-05-19T15:25:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am so loving this technique. I scoped SCS and found so many inspiring pieces of work. These are inspired by the many creative and talented gals from the gallery.Thought I would try recreating some of them with CTMH products.

TUTORIAL:

1. Use white daisy pigment stamp pad and stamp playful petals and celebrate life onto black CS
2. Using sponge daubers, make up applicators or q-tips gently daub summer chalks on top of the white image until it is covered
3. Use a paper piercer to poke holes around the flower petals and then mount on to watermelon CS
4. Mount onto citrus leaf CS

Ok now you try and let us see what you come up with. Post a link to your creation and I'll post it here!!! Here's another one

Supplies: all CTMH unless noted

Paper: pink carnation, citrus leaf, black cs
Stamps: rustic flowers, playful flourishes, for every occasion
Ink: pink carnation, black
Accesories: flower metal rimmed tag, sparkles, white daisy waxy flax
Other: American crafts ribbon, CB swiss dots embossing folder

Thought for Today

2008-05-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

When we find ourselves ready to judge another person’s motives, let’s pause and remember—only God can see the heart, and only His Word can expose its motives. Our responsibility is to let the Lord and His Word convict us about our own hearts.

Click here to read the whole devotional from Our daily bread

— Bill Crowder

SISTERS

2008-05-18T14:58:00.000-07:00

This is one of the layouts hanging from my cabinets in my scrap room. I love it not because it is pink but because it showcases my beautiful step daughter Tori. Lexi just adores her and is so blessed to have an older sister.

Supplies

Papers: CTMH goovy blossoms
Stamps: flourishes Autumn Leaves
Ink: white daisy water based
Embellishments: Heidi Swapp felt stickers, Prima flower, Target chipboard letters, buttons

Mom paper bag album

2008-05-17T23:32:00.000-07:00

I used the rub n write pen with prisma glitter on the left page & CTMH stamps
The right page lifts up to add more pics or journaling, used boutique alphabet for JOY
The left page lifts up by the green clip for additional pics

The left page unties and opens into a trifold
The right page is a pocket page
The left page also lifts up as shown below

The left page unties and unfolds into a trifold, the right page is a library card pocket as well as a pocket that is on the base page with an additional photo mat with green binder clip.

I made this as a special order for a customer. She wanted the album to be very relaxing and serene and told me her mom's favorite colors included light shades of blue and green. I found this 8x8 paper pack at Target last year and it was exactly what she described. I used CTMH adorable backgrounds in garden green to stamp the tag on the cover. Throughout the book I used various CTMH sets, photo hanger, rub n write pen and prisma glitter, mulberry paper, just blooms and prima flowers, organdy ribbon, CTMH cardstock sweet leaf, lilac mist, garden green, spiral clips, buttons...

Blog Candy!!!

2008-05-16T11:53:00.001-07:00

Check out elf creations, there is some blog candy up for grabs!

little license stamp set

2008-05-16T10:23:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone!!!! Well, I just wanted to let you know that both the USB ports are broken on my computer. I was trying to transfer some pictures from my camera and well......... nothing. I'll be creating this weekend in preparation for our crop next weekend. Our church holds quarterly crops and they are so much fun!!! Check out the archives if you want to see the last crop, it was in February. As soon as I get those ports fixed I'll post some pics of all the new artwork. For now I'll just post some things that I have in my files. Hope you all have a great day. Melanie

This is a little matchbook photo album that I made using CTMH CS and patterned paper. I made the plaid paper by adding the lines with our sweet leaf marker to the baby pink PP. I added our retired summer accent beads for the chain and stamped the images with our LITTLE LICENSE stamp set. The baby Pink and Sweat leaf CS is sanded and all papers are ink distressed with bubblegum ink.

The friend card was cased from a book many years ago. I just loved all of the detail and had to make my version of it. I used Little License to make the small flower background as well as the stamped words. The word "Friend" uses swirly strokes alphabet stamp set.

The 3x3 card is all stamped using little license. I just love this little set!!!!

Love For All !!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-15T12:23:00.000-07:00

Hello my friends,

Here are a couple of verses that the Lord pressed upon my heart this morning during my thru the word reading. I pray you all have a blessed day today!!!!!

24 Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. 25 But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. Gal 3: 24-25

16 Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth? Gal 4: 16

God sent His son to free us from the bondage of the law, because we cannot in our flesh keep the law. He knows we are weak and fleshly. We are lustful and selfish by nature. However the law was given to guide his people until the promised one would come, Jesus.

Sometimes I feel like Paul, when you share the truth of God’s word with others, they don’t always seem to appreciate it and sometimes have an adverse reaction. It is easy to feel pretty unpopular and not liked. I can remember as a kid it was so important to me to feel liked and I never wanted anyone to hate me. I was careful not to do anything that would cause someone to dislike me. That was sometimes a lot of pressure, something most kids experience.

However as an adult and a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, I have a freedom that I never had before. I am confident in who I am in Christ. He has shown me that He is enough and that I need not seek to please man but to please Him, for I will not stand before those in the world but before my Heavenly Creator and Savior. He has freed me from myself!!!!!!! Thank you Lord, because I know that I am weak and I cannot keep the law. It’s just like Paul says in Rom 7:15 “For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do.”

I always mean well, but God knew this would be the case and that we would battle sin in our life, so He sent His Son to be that resolution for me. Now because of His great love for me I desire to serve Him, I desire to share Him with others because I know He loves everyone so much and I desire to share the gift of life and FREEDOM with those around me, especially those I love. How could I not, lest I be selfish and keep it to myself. NO, NO, NO!!!! I will not!!!

Friends, I pray that you do not get offended by my sharing. I love that the Lord brings people together for a reason and I simply love all of you and desire only to share this treasure that I feel would be selfish to keep to myself. I know this is a personal decision for everyone.

I pray for all of you because that’s what you do for people that you care about. I am so blessed by the gift of blogging. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it is yet another way that the Lord allows people into your life. People you never would have known existed. So many will touch your lives in some way. Thank you for touching mine!!!!

Smiles & Hugs,

Melanie

Learning to say "no"

2008-05-14T08:17:00.000-07:00

Moses' father-in-law replied, "What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone" (NIV). Ex 18:17-18

Moses was going to work every day as the sole judge over all the tribes of Israel. The number of people demanding his time was so great he worked from dawn until dusk without making a dent in the workload. His father-in-law, Jethro, saw this and immediately recognized a man who could not say "no" to requests for his time. He suggested Moses focus on only two things - representing the people before God, and handling the most difficult of the disputes. The rest of the work could be delegated to capable men he appointed. Moses listened, delegated, and found himself doing far more than he had ever done before, but in much less time. If this advice worked for Moses, will it not also work for us?

Appropriate boundaries are important for everyone in the family. As the parent, you have the responsibility to set limits for your children and for yourself.

With all of the demands on our time I thought this might be helpful for some of us. I know that it is sometimes so hard for me to say no. I myself find myself committed to many things this month and need to define those boundaries to assure that I don't fall out of balance. Where can I delegate? What can I live without? What should I politely decline! PRIORITIES PRIORITIES PRIORITIES!!!!

I pray you all find balance in your schedule this week and are blessed beyond measure. Thanks again for your friendship!!!!!!!!!

Smiles,

Melanie

parentingbydesign

CTMH Dream Team Tri Annual Swap

2008-05-13T22:25:00.000-07:00

Game On - DeAnn Buser

Sarsparilla - Lisa Sargent lovin the circle window charm for the flower center and the new clear inspiration tags! Its the acrylic tag on the 3x3 card
Blue Ribbon - Diane Crawford Gotta love the new designer ric rac collection and watermelon stamps!
Whoops a daisy - Carol Thompsom Take a closer look. The frogs eyes are our new bitty brads! That frog stamp set is too cute and love the clear buttons too!

This swap was to feature the 5 new My Reflections Kits in the catalog. I did boom di ada which you can find in the post labeled boom di ada. Click to enlarge to get a closer look there are a lot of details you can't see from far! Great job girls!!!!

Like what you see???? Visit my site and you can have it all!!!!!!! You can view the new catalog on line and order to your hearts content. Don't forget to check out the stamp of the month only available for this month and the Magic Moments promotion.

Thanks for stoppin by, I so appreciate all of you!!!!

Smiles,
Melanie

Limited Resources???

2008-05-12T23:41:00.001-07:00

Well, hello! I hope you all had a wonderfully blessed Mother's Day. Thank you to all of you who stopped by to wish me a blessed day! It truly was a wonderful day, filled with love and gratitude. However, today I received a very precious and tender gift. For those of you who follow my blog, I recently posted a prayer request for my step son Dusty. He has been struggling for some time and he found himself in jail. He's been in there for 7 weeks. While in jail he has sought to find peace in the Lord and has been in a very vulnerable place. For many years he's been rebelling against the Lord and has tried to do things his way and now has found out that the enemy is just a big liar and deceiver and wants nothing good for his life. There is nothing other than God that can fill the God shaped void in all of us and sometimes it takes a little longer for some to figure this out.

I have been writing him every day and sending him whatever the Lord has instructed me to write. He lives in TN and has had little to no contact with us for years. However, as the word says, the Lord can restore the years the locusts have eaten... You don't have to stay where you're at or live in the past. It's simply a decision we must make, we either follow Him or follow the ways of man. Well, I believe that God has allowed Dusty to be where he's at to get his undivided attention and to save him.

In jail he has only access to a pencil and paper. He wanted to send me a Mother's Day Card and doggonit he did!!!! Let me show you what you can do with limited resources. No eyelets, no hole punch, no decorative ribbon, no cardstock, no stamps, no adhesive???????? No problem. Here's a solution
He folded the paper to make it a trifold and tied it shut to make a tall card, so no need for adhesive (not sure where the string came from but I thought it was so clever). Remember he has no scissors and had to fit his card in a long envelope. He used his pencil as his paper piercer and the lead left a nice black looking eyelet hole. And how about those stamps?????????? Great sentiment for the front and hallmark couldn't have said it better. The graphics inside just can't be beat.

So the next time you look around at your supplies and think you don't have enough, I hope you will count your blessings and think of this beautiful card sent to me from my step son from a lonely prison cell.

Trust me he had all the supplies he needed, and it couldn't have been any better for me!!!!!

Thank you Lord for the work you are doing in his life and I pray that you will use him one day for your glory!!!!

Thanks for your prayers and please pray for him, his hearing is on THURS and he will find out if he will get to go home or not. GOD'S WILL BE DONE!!!

Happy Mother's Day !!!!!!!

2008-05-11T09:58:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to say Happy Mother's Day to all of you who are mommies, whether you have little ones at home or older children who are out on their own. God has given us all the gift of motherhood and has supplied us with all that we need to accomplish this sometimes daunting task. But how awesome is it when that child of yours looks at you and says, "I love you mom!" or "you're the best mommy ever!" even when you know you just lost your cool or didn't take enough time to play with them. It's that unconditional love that is so amazing and children seem to know and understand it well. They don't care what you just did, they just know that they love you.

How precious and beautiful a job we have been given. I pray that you all will enjoy your families today and take the time to truly appreciate the gift of motherhood.

"Behold, children are a heritage form the Lord, The fruit of the womb is a reward.
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of ones youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them..."

Have a blessed day and enjoy being called "MOM",

Melanie

P.S. A little gift for all my mommy friends!!!
Here is a wonderful website which contains a monthly newsletter filled with encouragement for moms www.momsinbloom.com

You can view Wendy's past newsletters and get on her mailing list. She just sent out the last issue and will be taking the summer off to enjoy her family. Her writings are a blessing, I hope you will enjoy them too!