Happy Friday everyone!
There’s a lot going on around here today, but I didn’t want the day to pass by without sharing a thought with you for Faithful Friday!
There’s a church in town that has the best quotes on their church sign. They are always very inspirational, encouraging, and sometimes convicting to me.
In light of our troubles lately, this one meant a lot. However, I know our “troubles” are very mild compared to many. I was reminded of this as we met a 17 year old young man in the hospital that had been in there for 3 months with Crohn’s Disease and he hasn’t food during all that time. That pretty much makes me put things in perspective. His name is Brandon. Brandon is a very special young man and without knowing it, he actually encouraged me.
The quote that I saw read:
"Sometimes God lets you reach rock bottom so you can discover that he’s the rock at the bottom."
That’s so true. God is my rock. He’s my rock and my fortress. Without Him, I am nothing. I can’t imagine walking through this world the Lord.
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalm 18:2 (NIV)
Hope this quote, and especially God’s word through scripture, meant as much to you as it did to me and that it brings you encouragement!
Thanks for stopping by for Faithful Friday. You are welcome to join us! Leave Joy a comment here letting us know if you decide to participate. And have a wonderful weekend!
Be Blessed!
~ Tammy ~
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Friday, June 29, 2012
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Pinterest Inspired
I’m kind of hooked on Pinterest. Well, okay, I LOVE Pinterest. And I know we all joke about all the things we pin that we never do or use, and yes that IS true. But….it’s kind of like window shopping or wishing…….. or for just in case, right? It doesn’t cost anything to pin and save it for later. And it’s so fun to look at!
Facebook or Twitter has never interested or enticed me. Guess I’m not that social,(in that way anyway)? Blogging and Pinterest are more my style. I really do refer back to my Pinterest boards (or Joy’s when I tell her to pin something so I can pin it too). So far most of my Pinterest inspired creations that I have actually followed through with have been recipes or educational type activities. And so it is again.
We haven’t actually stuck to this plan with the hospital trip and a/c woes, but Joy and I decided we were going to try to do one fun activity or “out of the ordinary thing” each summer day. Nothing fancy, just something.
So early last week (pre-hospital visit), we referred to our Pinterest board and decided to try milk painting on toast.
You need these three ingredients: Milk, food coloring and bread.
Pour just a dab of milk in small bowls and add your food coloring of choice.
Then you simply paint your toast!
Joy was, of course, more artistic with hers.....
.....but Luke had a ball with his too.
And while Joy was more artistic, Luke definitely won the award for eating more of the finished product than anyone else.
Then the next night, I again referred to my “What’s For Dinner” board and cooked Quick Tortellini Bake. Our dinner was very simple as I only added garlic bread. We had leftovers, so we also enjoyed it the next night. It was delicious! For some reason, I never think about taking photos of food while I’m preparing it. So you can see some is already missing from this dish.
Here’s the pretty photo from Pinterest (Click on the Pinterest link to take you to the pin).
And the recipe:
Don’t you just love Pinterest? This is also your personal invitation to come follow me on Pinterest......you will find the link on my sidebar! :)
I’d love to come check out your boards too! Have a great day and Happy Pinning!
Facebook or Twitter has never interested or enticed me. Guess I’m not that social,(in that way anyway)? Blogging and Pinterest are more my style. I really do refer back to my Pinterest boards (or Joy’s when I tell her to pin something so I can pin it too). So far most of my Pinterest inspired creations that I have actually followed through with have been recipes or educational type activities. And so it is again.
We haven’t actually stuck to this plan with the hospital trip and a/c woes, but Joy and I decided we were going to try to do one fun activity or “out of the ordinary thing” each summer day. Nothing fancy, just something.
So early last week (pre-hospital visit), we referred to our Pinterest board and decided to try milk painting on toast.
You need these three ingredients: Milk, food coloring and bread.
Pour just a dab of milk in small bowls and add your food coloring of choice.
Then you simply paint your toast!
Joy was, of course, more artistic with hers.....
.....but Luke had a ball with his too.
And while Joy was more artistic, Luke definitely won the award for eating more of the finished product than anyone else.
Then the next night, I again referred to my “What’s For Dinner” board and cooked Quick Tortellini Bake. Our dinner was very simple as I only added garlic bread. We had leftovers, so we also enjoyed it the next night. It was delicious! For some reason, I never think about taking photos of food while I’m preparing it. So you can see some is already missing from this dish.
Here’s the pretty photo from Pinterest (Click on the Pinterest link to take you to the pin).
And the recipe:
- 20 oz frozen or refrigerated tortellini
- 1 tbs olive oil
- 1 24-oz jar jar of spaghetti sauce of your choice
- 3 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup skim milk
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
- ½ teas garlic powder
- ½ teas dried basil
- ½ teas dried oregano
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray one large baking dish or two small ones with cooking spray.
Bring a large pot of water to boil. Cook the tortellini as per the package. Drain.
Meanwhile, stir together the spaghetti sauce, cream cheese, milk, 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, garlic powder, basil, and oregano.
Pour the tortellini into prepared baking dish and cover with sauce mixture. Toss a bit to combine. Sprinkle the mixture with the mozzarella cheese and the remaining parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and beginning to brown.
Don’t you just love Pinterest? This is also your personal invitation to come follow me on Pinterest......you will find the link on my sidebar! :)
I’d love to come check out your boards too! Have a great day and Happy Pinning!
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Thirty-One
Time is truly flying by this summer! I can’t believe June is almost gone!
After my last post, our pool began leaking again, so still no swimming in the pool. However, we have a pool guy coming out tomorrow morning. We’re really hoping he can take care of it (without mention of a new pool liner)…..especially so since we have cousins coming down to see us that will be anxiously waiting to swim, I’m sure!
We just got out of the hospital again Sunday. Joy’s pancreatitis flared up again and we ended up being admitted through the ER per her doctor Thursday night. This time her pancreatic enzymes reached even higher (lipase was 4500), yet she bounced back from this episode quicker. They did further testing through a MRCP MRI to take a closer look inside the pancreas and it all turned out normal. That’s good and bad. Normal is always good to hear. However, if they found something there, it could possibly be corrected by surgery or other means. This means still no answer that can be corrected. The other testing they have done is genetic testing. The results from that won’t be back for two weeks. If that comes back positive, then there is really nothing they can do. We will just know the cause. We’re just praying and asking God for a miracle and that He will just heal her pancreas so that she never has any recurring episodes. We do have a follow-up visit with her GI doctor Thursday.
……And our air conditioner is not running properly. My Uncle Jesse is coming Thursday to see about that (all the way from Alabama….. bless his heart). But we just thank the Lord for The Cedar Loft! We are staying up here. We feel like we’re on vacation away from home staying in a cabin. We were actually lying in bed last night, and Jason said, “You know I could live like this.” One thing I know, if we ever move, we will definitely down size and go for a smaller cabin feel.
But through all of these trials, we have so much to be thankful for. We see people with many more trials and problems. We have God on our side and we know He’s in control. That’s the most important thing.
Okay, now for the title of this post. I mentioned it a week or so ago, but my Thirty-One online party is nearing the end of the deadline. Unfortunately, it’s not going that well. Well, I did get one order so far! That’s something! Anyway, I just wanted to remind you all that you still have until Friday to shop. If you’re interested in taking a look, just let me know in a comment or email me here and request it, and I’ll send you the link directly to shop in order for me to get credit as the hostess. Purchases can be shipped directly to you, if you don’t live near me. There is also a special going on right now through the end of this month: you may purchase the large utility tote (really nice) for only $10 when you spend $35.
Thirty-One has a really great organizer that's great for throwing in some magazines or books, snacks/bottle water and much more, for those times that you're waiting (I'm thinking doctor appointments). I will have my stash of Country Sampler magazines in there. I do this now (without a tote) just carrying them with me now for anytime I have down time waiting. My mother laughs about me carrying my magazines or books. Joy is the same way. Anyway, Thirty-One really does have some great totes (and pretty fabrics to choose from too).....so check it out! And thank you! :)
Hope you’re enjoying your summer! Take time to enjoy all the simple moments!
After my last post, our pool began leaking again, so still no swimming in the pool. However, we have a pool guy coming out tomorrow morning. We’re really hoping he can take care of it (without mention of a new pool liner)…..especially so since we have cousins coming down to see us that will be anxiously waiting to swim, I’m sure!
We just got out of the hospital again Sunday. Joy’s pancreatitis flared up again and we ended up being admitted through the ER per her doctor Thursday night. This time her pancreatic enzymes reached even higher (lipase was 4500), yet she bounced back from this episode quicker. They did further testing through a MRCP MRI to take a closer look inside the pancreas and it all turned out normal. That’s good and bad. Normal is always good to hear. However, if they found something there, it could possibly be corrected by surgery or other means. This means still no answer that can be corrected. The other testing they have done is genetic testing. The results from that won’t be back for two weeks. If that comes back positive, then there is really nothing they can do. We will just know the cause. We’re just praying and asking God for a miracle and that He will just heal her pancreas so that she never has any recurring episodes. We do have a follow-up visit with her GI doctor Thursday.
……And our air conditioner is not running properly. My Uncle Jesse is coming Thursday to see about that (all the way from Alabama….. bless his heart). But we just thank the Lord for The Cedar Loft! We are staying up here. We feel like we’re on vacation away from home staying in a cabin. We were actually lying in bed last night, and Jason said, “You know I could live like this.” One thing I know, if we ever move, we will definitely down size and go for a smaller cabin feel.
But through all of these trials, we have so much to be thankful for. We see people with many more trials and problems. We have God on our side and we know He’s in control. That’s the most important thing.
Okay, now for the title of this post. I mentioned it a week or so ago, but my Thirty-One online party is nearing the end of the deadline. Unfortunately, it’s not going that well. Well, I did get one order so far! That’s something! Anyway, I just wanted to remind you all that you still have until Friday to shop. If you’re interested in taking a look, just let me know in a comment or email me here and request it, and I’ll send you the link directly to shop in order for me to get credit as the hostess. Purchases can be shipped directly to you, if you don’t live near me. There is also a special going on right now through the end of this month: you may purchase the large utility tote (really nice) for only $10 when you spend $35.
Thirty-One has a really great organizer that's great for throwing in some magazines or books, snacks/bottle water and much more, for those times that you're waiting (I'm thinking doctor appointments). I will have my stash of Country Sampler magazines in there. I do this now (without a tote) just carrying them with me now for anytime I have down time waiting. My mother laughs about me carrying my magazines or books. Joy is the same way. Anyway, Thirty-One really does have some great totes (and pretty fabrics to choose from too).....so check it out! And thank you! :)
Hope you’re enjoying your summer! Take time to enjoy all the simple moments!
Friday, June 22, 2012
Faithful Friday - "Good Morning"
Good morning everyone! :)
It's Friday again! That means it's time for Faithful Friday! And speaking of Faithful Friday, we'd really LOVE for you to join in! We'd love to see this thing grow.....taking one special day of the week to share something God has done for you or a thought or devotion that God has given you to share. We can encourage others by sharing our Christian walk! Faithful Friday was started by my daughter, Joy, a couple of years ago as a way to share our faith with the blogging world. If you'd like to participate, just grab the button below and join in. Leave Joy a comment on her blog (here) and let her know you participated and we'll come visit. By the way, her button was lovingly made by Mandie of Life in the Craft Lane. :) Feel free to add it to your sidebar too if you wish!
This week as I enjoyed this song, Good Morning, (which I love), the Lord just laid it on my heart to share this with you today.
For the most part, I've never been a real morning person. Though I have become more of one within the last 3-4 years (guess it's the older-I-get-type-of-thing). I really used to be a night owl. But there's just something still and reverent about early mornings and I think God wants the best of us when we're fresh in the morning, you know?
I also tend to be somewhat of a worrier too. Even my dreams reflect that. I tend to dream dreams about not being prepared for an upcoming event or trying to solve a conflict, which can make for a fitful sleep. Therefore, sometimes when I wake up in the morning I might wake up dreading something that is coming up. Or I wake up tired even thinking about what the day holds. Instead I should be rejoicing in the new day that God has made and given me to enjoy! After all, I woke up! I'm here! I'm alive! God gave me a brand new day! :) And he does the same for you!
This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 (NIV)
Worry is taking on an added responsibility that God didn't intend for us to have. God doesn't want us to worry. He wants us to be safe and secure in that he will take care of tomorrow and will take of us tomorrow! :)
26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? 28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:26-34 (NIV)
This is something I'm working on....praising God when I get up each morning for the day he's given me; thanking Him for it; and trusting Him with it. I've got a long ways to go, but God knows my day anyway and it's in His hands! Nobody loves me or cares for me like He does!
Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. Psalm 55:22 (NIV)
This song just blesses me everytime I hear it! Listen to the words........and I hope you're blessed by it too! Mandisa wrote it as a reminder for us to start each day praising God and not worrying about what's ahead and to wake up with a positive attitude! God extends His mercy to us everyday that we wake up to a brand new day! :) Plus, if this music doesn't get your blood pumping, nothing will! :)
Enjoy and Be Blessed! :)
Thanks so much for stopping by today and have a great weekend! :)
~ Tammy ~
It's Friday again! That means it's time for Faithful Friday! And speaking of Faithful Friday, we'd really LOVE for you to join in! We'd love to see this thing grow.....taking one special day of the week to share something God has done for you or a thought or devotion that God has given you to share. We can encourage others by sharing our Christian walk! Faithful Friday was started by my daughter, Joy, a couple of years ago as a way to share our faith with the blogging world. If you'd like to participate, just grab the button below and join in. Leave Joy a comment on her blog (here) and let her know you participated and we'll come visit. By the way, her button was lovingly made by Mandie of Life in the Craft Lane. :) Feel free to add it to your sidebar too if you wish!
This week as I enjoyed this song, Good Morning, (which I love), the Lord just laid it on my heart to share this with you today.
For the most part, I've never been a real morning person. Though I have become more of one within the last 3-4 years (guess it's the older-I-get-type-of-thing). I really used to be a night owl. But there's just something still and reverent about early mornings and I think God wants the best of us when we're fresh in the morning, you know?
I also tend to be somewhat of a worrier too. Even my dreams reflect that. I tend to dream dreams about not being prepared for an upcoming event or trying to solve a conflict, which can make for a fitful sleep. Therefore, sometimes when I wake up in the morning I might wake up dreading something that is coming up. Or I wake up tired even thinking about what the day holds. Instead I should be rejoicing in the new day that God has made and given me to enjoy! After all, I woke up! I'm here! I'm alive! God gave me a brand new day! :) And he does the same for you!
This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 (NIV)
Worry is taking on an added responsibility that God didn't intend for us to have. God doesn't want us to worry. He wants us to be safe and secure in that he will take care of tomorrow and will take of us tomorrow! :)
26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? 28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:26-34 (NIV)
This is something I'm working on....praising God when I get up each morning for the day he's given me; thanking Him for it; and trusting Him with it. I've got a long ways to go, but God knows my day anyway and it's in His hands! Nobody loves me or cares for me like He does!
Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. Psalm 55:22 (NIV)
This song just blesses me everytime I hear it! Listen to the words........and I hope you're blessed by it too! Mandisa wrote it as a reminder for us to start each day praising God and not worrying about what's ahead and to wake up with a positive attitude! God extends His mercy to us everyday that we wake up to a brand new day! :) Plus, if this music doesn't get your blood pumping, nothing will! :)
Enjoy and Be Blessed! :)
Thanks so much for stopping by today and have a great weekend! :)
~ Tammy ~
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Two Year Forever Family Day Anniversary
Sometimes our time in China seems like just yesterday and other times like another lifetime. Yet, today is the second anniversary of our Forever Family Day…….the day when Luke literally walked into our lives forever.
Oh my, we were just remarking the other day at how far he’s come! He hardly seems like the same child that wouldn’t dare go into another room without us. He actually asks to go out in the backyard now and ride his bike on the sidewalk or play in the sand box without me…….. OR his Joy. (Gasp)! That really is a huge thing! I can be working in the kitchen and keep an eye on him through the bay windows and he’s fine with that. I notice him from time to time looking at me through there and I just wave or give him a thumbs-up.
His language skills have sky rocketed. Folks remark about how southern he sounds though. This weekend, my sister-in-law-, Missy was just saying that he cracks her up with his southern drawl. It just seemed funny to her coming from his little Chinese self. He sometimes gets carried away with something he’s heard but doesn’t quite get it right or is just so cute. Here are a few examples:
Me: Luke, Be careful…..you nearly knocked your sister over
Luke: Well……I told Joy scuse me... but she didn’t scuse.
****************************************************************************************
Me: Luke, you are in my personal space, son.
Luke: But mama, I LOOOVE your personal space.
****************************************************************************************
Luke to Joy: You like them beautiful flies?
He was referring to butterflies.
****************************************************************************************
Luke at the supper table: I love this sally!
He loved the salad.
****************************************************************************************
Luke to Joy: Joy, you angerted me up!
She made him mad.
****************************************************************************************
Luke to Joy: Look Joy, I’m making a hench braid.
He was attempting a French braid on one of her dolls.
****************************************************************************************
Luke to me (just last night): Mommy, could you fix me a healthy drink?
Me: (Laughing along with Jason and Joy)…What’s a healthy drink, Luke?
Luke: Water
****************************************************************************************
And some of his words to try to impress:
I have an urgent job for you.
Are you positively?
Nice and steady, now.
I won’t let you down; you can rely on me.
That’s radical.
Are you prepared?
It’s kind of difficult.
****************************************************************************************
His word for lemonade: enomade
His word for computer: pacuter
It will be kind of sad to see those words go. :(
****************************************************************************************
Life around here is never dull; nor would I want it to be. He is full of life. He has the heartiest laugh that just makes you laugh just to hear it. And he’s a loving little guy. He’s also very sensitive too. He loves learning and is constantly asking me if we are “doing school”. (I hope this continues).
Some of his latest accomplishments are learning to say the Pledge Allegiance to the Flag and sing a song we taught him to go with it; memorizing his phone number, days of the week, his birthday; counting to 30; writing his name; and he goes around saying words and emphasizing their beginning sound and proclaiming what they begin with. He’s very good at puzzles. The thing that’s got me stumped is that he still hasn’t learned all his colors. That came easy to my other two so this is different for me. I’m beginning to wonder if he’s color blind! Lol!
Luke has a great sense of direction. He is exceptionally quiet during drives to town paying close attention to where we are going and landmarks. He remembers and tells us where we are! He prefers to get on the interstate because he likes to 18-wheeler watch.
His favorite TV shows to watch right now are Little House on the Prairie, Dora, Bob the Builder, Thomas the Tank Engine, and Curious George.
He’s a big boy, 43 1/4” tall – solid, but not really chunky – all 52 lbs of him!
He comes across as shy and acts a little silly when meeting someone new. That changes when he gets comfortable with that person. The real Luke emerges then.
I can’t imagine life without Luke. We’re so grateful that God chose to bring him into our family. What a blessing he is!
If Luke's up to it (he's running a little fever), we’ll probably go out for ice cream tonight to celebrate two years! I think he would like that.
Thanks for stopping by and for following our Journey to Luke! For anyone new tuning in, you can read more by clicking on the Journey to Luke button on my sidebar. And just for fun, you can read last year’s One Year Forever Family Anniversary Post here and see just how far he’s come in one year!
Thanks for stopping by and for following our Journey to Luke! :)
June 20, 2010 - Our Forever Family Day |
These two were tight from the beginning. And yes, we introduced him to McDonalds the very first day. |
Oh my, we were just remarking the other day at how far he’s come! He hardly seems like the same child that wouldn’t dare go into another room without us. He actually asks to go out in the backyard now and ride his bike on the sidewalk or play in the sand box without me…….. OR his Joy. (Gasp)! That really is a huge thing! I can be working in the kitchen and keep an eye on him through the bay windows and he’s fine with that. I notice him from time to time looking at me through there and I just wave or give him a thumbs-up.
His language skills have sky rocketed. Folks remark about how southern he sounds though. This weekend, my sister-in-law-, Missy was just saying that he cracks her up with his southern drawl. It just seemed funny to her coming from his little Chinese self. He sometimes gets carried away with something he’s heard but doesn’t quite get it right or is just so cute. Here are a few examples:
Me: Luke, Be careful…..you nearly knocked your sister over
Luke: Well……I told Joy scuse me... but she didn’t scuse.
****************************************************************************************
Me: Luke, you are in my personal space, son.
Luke: But mama, I LOOOVE your personal space.
****************************************************************************************
Luke to Joy: You like them beautiful flies?
He was referring to butterflies.
****************************************************************************************
Luke at the supper table: I love this sally!
He loved the salad.
****************************************************************************************
Luke to Joy: Joy, you angerted me up!
She made him mad.
****************************************************************************************
Luke to Joy: Look Joy, I’m making a hench braid.
He was attempting a French braid on one of her dolls.
****************************************************************************************
Luke to me (just last night): Mommy, could you fix me a healthy drink?
Me: (Laughing along with Jason and Joy)…What’s a healthy drink, Luke?
Luke: Water
****************************************************************************************
And some of his words to try to impress:
I have an urgent job for you.
Are you positively?
Nice and steady, now.
I won’t let you down; you can rely on me.
That’s radical.
Are you prepared?
It’s kind of difficult.
****************************************************************************************
His word for lemonade: enomade
His word for computer: pacuter
It will be kind of sad to see those words go. :(
****************************************************************************************
In his sandbox June 2011 |
June 2011 |
June 2011 - Coming back from the Drive-In Movies |
Life around here is never dull; nor would I want it to be. He is full of life. He has the heartiest laugh that just makes you laugh just to hear it. And he’s a loving little guy. He’s also very sensitive too. He loves learning and is constantly asking me if we are “doing school”. (I hope this continues).
Some of his latest accomplishments are learning to say the Pledge Allegiance to the Flag and sing a song we taught him to go with it; memorizing his phone number, days of the week, his birthday; counting to 30; writing his name; and he goes around saying words and emphasizing their beginning sound and proclaiming what they begin with. He’s very good at puzzles. The thing that’s got me stumped is that he still hasn’t learned all his colors. That came easy to my other two so this is different for me. I’m beginning to wonder if he’s color blind! Lol!
Luke has a great sense of direction. He is exceptionally quiet during drives to town paying close attention to where we are going and landmarks. He remembers and tells us where we are! He prefers to get on the interstate because he likes to 18-wheeler watch.
His favorite TV shows to watch right now are Little House on the Prairie, Dora, Bob the Builder, Thomas the Tank Engine, and Curious George.
June 2012 - In his sandbox |
He’s a big boy, 43 1/4” tall – solid, but not really chunky – all 52 lbs of him!
He comes across as shy and acts a little silly when meeting someone new. That changes when he gets comfortable with that person. The real Luke emerges then.
June 2012 |
I can’t imagine life without Luke. We’re so grateful that God chose to bring him into our family. What a blessing he is!
If Luke's up to it (he's running a little fever), we’ll probably go out for ice cream tonight to celebrate two years! I think he would like that.
Taken today on his 2nd Forever Family Anniversary - June 20, 2012 |
Outside today on the iPad together - These two are still pretty tight. June 20, 2012 |
Thanks for stopping by and for following our Journey to Luke! For anyone new tuning in, you can read more by clicking on the Journey to Luke button on my sidebar. And just for fun, you can read last year’s One Year Forever Family Anniversary Post here and see just how far he’s come in one year!
Thanks for stopping by and for following our Journey to Luke! :)
Monday, June 18, 2012
Summer Days
I know it’s not officially summer yet, but summer days are definitely here for us!
It’s so exciting to start summer with a new bike! I remember those days! It’s too bad that kids today can’t enjoy the same freedom that we enjoyed as kids riding our bikes. I remember riding all around the neighborhood. Everyone waved at me. I was home at supper, or by dark. No worries. I wouldn’t dream of that for my kids today.
Joy and Luke saved their money and bought new bikes. (Well Luke had to have a little financial help but he didn't do too bad for a 4 year old). :)
I love the vintage flare to Joy’s bike. My brother was here this weekend and asked her, “What old lady did you steal that bicycle from”?
Isn’t it cute? Love the color too!
Luke opted for a Car’s bike. (He likes Lightning McQueen, but Mater is his favorite).
Luke has the bike riding down now (with training wheels of course). He had only ridden a tricycle up until this summer. See………he started cautiously with his helmet, wearing it every single time, taking it slowly.
Now he’s getting more daring…..no helmet......
......riding faster, and wearing his Mr. Cool shades.
This evening Jason, Joy and I went for a two and a half mile bike ride. We’re going to try to build on that and go every evening. Even though Luke is Mr. Cool on his bike, we didn’t think he could keep up with his training wheels, so he stayed with Grandmama and Pop next door.
Oh, and we did get the red mulch in our flower beds in the backyard. It's not all play.
Remember the before?
Much better now:
Unfortunately, there hasn’t been any swimming in our pool yet, because we had a slow leak somewhere that we couldn’t find. Jason and I finally found a few tiny pinhole punctures and got those repaired, thanks to Missy (my sister-in-law). When they were here this weekend, she told us she heard somewhere that if you put a water hose under water near the suspected leaky area, it will bubble on the outside and reveal the leak. It worked! Hopefully, we’ll be swimming in a couple of days! Believe me………. we’re counting down the days, especially the kids!
Luke has been enjoying snow cones (in a bowl). I pulled out my Pampered Chef ice shaver; picked up some snow cone syrup at Walmart, and he’s one happy little boy. Joy’s not a big fan of snow cones. She’s more of a lemonade girl. Come to think of it….I’ll have to pour some lemonade over the shaved ice for her! Don’t know why I didn’t think of that before!
Summer is also band-aid season, especially for little rambunctious adventurous boys! And Luke has a thing about them. You’ll probably notice in many pictures that he’s sporting one!
The other day he came into the kitchen with a band-aid stretched across his ear. He had a mosquito bite on the back of his ear and this (evidently) made it all better! He wouldn’t part with it for a couple of days either!
Luke has also been enjoying his sandbox everyday, which means a lot of sweeping for dear ole mama. :)
It's flip flop weather. (And evidently time to beat occasional boredom and take photos of your shadow). :) Right, Joy?
I’m a bit of a whimp about the hot weather though, especially the older I get. Give me fall weather any ole day! But summer days are especially fun for kids and good for making memories!
Speaking of summer, it’s the season for vacations and family reunions, which means packing and unpacking, trips to the pool or beach, going on picnics, all of which require toting all the necessary equipment along. I recently got the opportunity to look at a catalog from Thirty One. If you haven’t heard of it……it’s a Christian company (based on the principles of Proverbs 31) that specializes and carries the cutest organizational baskets, totes, note cards, purses (and more) with a wide choice of pretty fabrics! I love their products! And they c an be personalized!
Anyway, I decided to host an online catalog party that begins today, June 18th, and lasts until June 29th. You may order directly online and pay online and your merchandise will be shipped directly to you. I will get credit for any orders made through the link for my online party. So if you’re interested, drop me an email here and I’ll send you the link to shop (no pressure to buy…if you just want to look, I’ll send you the link). You can even book your own online party if you’re interested so you can earn free and half price items too. Oh, and I have to point out that through the end of this month, they are offering a special that allows you to purchase a large utility tote for only $10 when you spend $35, which is an awesome deal. Thank you in advance for taking a look! :)
Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your summer days! :)
It’s so exciting to start summer with a new bike! I remember those days! It’s too bad that kids today can’t enjoy the same freedom that we enjoyed as kids riding our bikes. I remember riding all around the neighborhood. Everyone waved at me. I was home at supper, or by dark. No worries. I wouldn’t dream of that for my kids today.
Joy and Luke saved their money and bought new bikes. (Well Luke had to have a little financial help but he didn't do too bad for a 4 year old). :)
I love the vintage flare to Joy’s bike. My brother was here this weekend and asked her, “What old lady did you steal that bicycle from”?
Isn’t it cute? Love the color too!
Luke opted for a Car’s bike. (He likes Lightning McQueen, but Mater is his favorite).
Luke has the bike riding down now (with training wheels of course). He had only ridden a tricycle up until this summer. See………he started cautiously with his helmet, wearing it every single time, taking it slowly.
Now he’s getting more daring…..no helmet......
......riding faster, and wearing his Mr. Cool shades.
This evening Jason, Joy and I went for a two and a half mile bike ride. We’re going to try to build on that and go every evening. Even though Luke is Mr. Cool on his bike, we didn’t think he could keep up with his training wheels, so he stayed with Grandmama and Pop next door.
Oh, and we did get the red mulch in our flower beds in the backyard. It's not all play.
Remember the before?
Much better now:
Unfortunately, there hasn’t been any swimming in our pool yet, because we had a slow leak somewhere that we couldn’t find. Jason and I finally found a few tiny pinhole punctures and got those repaired, thanks to Missy (my sister-in-law). When they were here this weekend, she told us she heard somewhere that if you put a water hose under water near the suspected leaky area, it will bubble on the outside and reveal the leak. It worked! Hopefully, we’ll be swimming in a couple of days! Believe me………. we’re counting down the days, especially the kids!
Luke has been enjoying snow cones (in a bowl). I pulled out my Pampered Chef ice shaver; picked up some snow cone syrup at Walmart, and he’s one happy little boy. Joy’s not a big fan of snow cones. She’s more of a lemonade girl. Come to think of it….I’ll have to pour some lemonade over the shaved ice for her! Don’t know why I didn’t think of that before!
Summer is also band-aid season, especially for little rambunctious adventurous boys! And Luke has a thing about them. You’ll probably notice in many pictures that he’s sporting one!
The other day he came into the kitchen with a band-aid stretched across his ear. He had a mosquito bite on the back of his ear and this (evidently) made it all better! He wouldn’t part with it for a couple of days either!
Luke has also been enjoying his sandbox everyday, which means a lot of sweeping for dear ole mama. :)
It's flip flop weather. (And evidently time to beat occasional boredom and take photos of your shadow). :) Right, Joy?
I’m a bit of a whimp about the hot weather though, especially the older I get. Give me fall weather any ole day! But summer days are especially fun for kids and good for making memories!
Speaking of summer, it’s the season for vacations and family reunions, which means packing and unpacking, trips to the pool or beach, going on picnics, all of which require toting all the necessary equipment along. I recently got the opportunity to look at a catalog from Thirty One. If you haven’t heard of it……it’s a Christian company (based on the principles of Proverbs 31) that specializes and carries the cutest organizational baskets, totes, note cards, purses (and more) with a wide choice of pretty fabrics! I love their products! And they c an be personalized!
Anyway, I decided to host an online catalog party that begins today, June 18th, and lasts until June 29th. You may order directly online and pay online and your merchandise will be shipped directly to you. I will get credit for any orders made through the link for my online party. So if you’re interested, drop me an email here and I’ll send you the link to shop (no pressure to buy…if you just want to look, I’ll send you the link). You can even book your own online party if you’re interested so you can earn free and half price items too. Oh, and I have to point out that through the end of this month, they are offering a special that allows you to purchase a large utility tote for only $10 when you spend $35, which is an awesome deal. Thank you in advance for taking a look! :)
Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your summer days! :)
Friday, June 15, 2012
Faithful Friday - "Legacy"
This past week our pastor called to check on us after we returned from the funerals of Uncle Junior and Aunt Betty. As I was speaking with him, he made a remark about what a legacy they left behind. That’s what I want to share today for Faithful Friday.
While we tend to focus on the fact that we lost two people whom we loved dearly and that we will miss them very much, there’s so much more that they left for us. I knew it already, but when our pastor made the remark about a legacy, it drove it home to me. If we could all leave such a legacy as they did, our world would be a much greater place. And we would be doing what God created us to do and intended for us to do.
Uncle Junior and Aunt Betty were a living Christian example and touched many lives. Someone counted over 800 names of people that came through to pay their respects at the funeral visitation.
After the accident, their children (my cousins) found a note that had been left among their things in their home written by Uncle Junior and sealed in an envelope that was to be opened upon his death. It began with, “In the event that my death takes place before the rapture”………I love that! It went on to request that if his kids could sing, he would love for them to sing Amazing Grace, his favorite hymn, and if they didn’t think they could, that was okay too. (Their kids did sing it). But the best part left in his note was this request he made: He asked if they could, he’d really like a sign placed on or near his casket that read, “Not here….Gone Home”! Not only was that a comfort to all those that loved them but what a witness to the security of eternal life in heaven! He also requested that the funeral service be a regular church service with an evangelistic message so that others would clearly hear the Gospel and be given a chance to accept the Lord. And so it was. That service was two hours long as a matter of fact. Because the funeral service took place in Indiana and the burials in Tennessee, there was a second graveside service by a different pastor from Alabama, who didn’t know (or hear) what was spoken at the first service. His message spoken at the graveside service turned out to be a direct continuation of the first service.
As I looked at the large photo on the easel of Uncle Junior (who made you feel like you were the most important person when he spoke with you) and Aunt Betty (who gave really good hugs), I couldn’t help but to think how much I’d miss them both at all the family get-togethers…..especially Uncle Junior asking the blessing. Then I thought how pleased they would have been to know that even in their deaths, they were still evangelizing. The way they lived their lives spoke to the testimony of Christ. Through the way they lived, they left a legacy to all those left behind. That’s the kind of legacy I want to leave!
What kind of legacy ARE we leaving? Are we leaving a legacy that truly matters?
***************************************************************************************
If you’d like to participate in Faithful Friday, leave Joy a comment here on her blog so we can visit your blog! And if you just came by to read, we thank you for that too! Thanks for stopping by! :)
Have a great weekend! Be blessed! ~ Tammy ~
While we tend to focus on the fact that we lost two people whom we loved dearly and that we will miss them very much, there’s so much more that they left for us. I knew it already, but when our pastor made the remark about a legacy, it drove it home to me. If we could all leave such a legacy as they did, our world would be a much greater place. And we would be doing what God created us to do and intended for us to do.
Uncle Junior and Aunt Betty were a living Christian example and touched many lives. Someone counted over 800 names of people that came through to pay their respects at the funeral visitation.
After the accident, their children (my cousins) found a note that had been left among their things in their home written by Uncle Junior and sealed in an envelope that was to be opened upon his death. It began with, “In the event that my death takes place before the rapture”………I love that! It went on to request that if his kids could sing, he would love for them to sing Amazing Grace, his favorite hymn, and if they didn’t think they could, that was okay too. (Their kids did sing it). But the best part left in his note was this request he made: He asked if they could, he’d really like a sign placed on or near his casket that read, “Not here….Gone Home”! Not only was that a comfort to all those that loved them but what a witness to the security of eternal life in heaven! He also requested that the funeral service be a regular church service with an evangelistic message so that others would clearly hear the Gospel and be given a chance to accept the Lord. And so it was. That service was two hours long as a matter of fact. Because the funeral service took place in Indiana and the burials in Tennessee, there was a second graveside service by a different pastor from Alabama, who didn’t know (or hear) what was spoken at the first service. His message spoken at the graveside service turned out to be a direct continuation of the first service.
As I looked at the large photo on the easel of Uncle Junior (who made you feel like you were the most important person when he spoke with you) and Aunt Betty (who gave really good hugs), I couldn’t help but to think how much I’d miss them both at all the family get-togethers…..especially Uncle Junior asking the blessing. Then I thought how pleased they would have been to know that even in their deaths, they were still evangelizing. The way they lived their lives spoke to the testimony of Christ. Through the way they lived, they left a legacy to all those left behind. That’s the kind of legacy I want to leave!
What kind of legacy ARE we leaving? Are we leaving a legacy that truly matters?
***************************************************************************************
If you’d like to participate in Faithful Friday, leave Joy a comment here on her blog so we can visit your blog! And if you just came by to read, we thank you for that too! Thanks for stopping by! :)
Have a great weekend! Be blessed! ~ Tammy ~
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
My New (Johnston Benchworks) Furniture!
I can’t believe after wishing for Johnston Benchworks furniture for so long that it’s finally sitting in my living room! The day after it was delivered, we left to go out of town for the funeral of my aunt and uncle. So I’m really just now soaking it in. It sure was nice to come home to though!
I know it’s the pictures you really want to see, so I’ll just oblige you with those right now. :)
It is all still a work in progress. Now I have the furniture and it’s time to change out some of the wall décor. It will definitely still have an Americana feel but I would like to add more gameboards. I already purchased a George Washington oil painting which needs to be stretched and framed. I will be on the look-out for side tables. And I'm not so sure about the cedar chest in the middle of the room now either. But those things will just be icing on the cake. :)
The sofa is the Chippendale long sofa. The legs on all the furniture are the Wheat Oak grooved. Ever since we built this house (actually before that), I’ve wanted a red checked couch. I LOVE this couch! I can’t stop looking at it. The fabric is in the Steiger Check Red. Did I tell you that I love my red checked couch? :)
The fireside chair definitely needs a throw pillow. I’m working on that too. This chair is the Miller’s Creek Wing Chair and I love the way it envelopes me when I sit in it. It is so comfortable! We purchased extra fabric with the intention of Jason building me a stool that we will have covered in the same fabric, which is Liberty Check. Color is called Brazen.
These two recliner chairs are the Maple Springs Recliners. They are comfortable too. I was a little worried about the comfort since we had never sat in one, but they are comfortable! They only recline to one position but I'm already used to that. Even Jason says they are comfortable. I loved this fabric with the sofa! It is called Colony Mustard. This is one fabric that I was absolutely sure of and didn't waiver from when deciding on color choices with my red sofa. I knew I wanted it in there somewhere somehow.
Our next project in the house will be to remove the wallpaper from the foyer/stair area, paint the walls, encase the windows above it in wood, and put wooden treads on the staircase. I think removing the old gray carpet and the dated wallpaper will make a big difference. The plan was to do this before the furniture arrived, but as you know, we’ve had unplanned circumstances these past few months. So we will be covering furniture and digging into another home improvement project. Nothing unusual for us, I suppose. :)
And I'll let you in on a secret because we all know that Johnston Benchworks furniture doesn't come just real cheap......Or at least I didn't know it, but was thrilled to find out! We purchased our furniture through American Heritage Crafters. We stumbled upon their sale in March. Because they are the largest dealers of Johnston Benchworks furniture, they are able to offer a huge sale every March and October. They offer a buy one piece of JB at full price and get the next equal or lesser value piece for free. In our case, we purchased the sofa, and got the fireside chair free. We purchased one recliner and received the other free. We had to pay to have it shipped (and wait for the truck to be in our area), but still saved over $2000. This actually made it not that much more expensive than most furniture.....maybe just a little, but much more within our budget range anyway. Ask for Kathy and tell her I sent you! :) And Kris (the designer there) was also wonderful in helping with color choices from a designer's point of view. They were so pleasant to work with. And the delivery company (Alpha and Omega) did a great job with their "white glove delivery" and were very careful and thorough in moving the furniture in.
And I also want to say that if you are ever anywhere near Clinton, Tennessee, check out The Speckled Hen. Sharon, the owner, is wonderful too. She was very helpful to me as I was deciding on furniture and we had the privilege of visiting her store. She also sells Johnston Benchworks, as well as many other wonderful primitives there! If you are ever near there, don't miss her store! And if you aren't near there, you can still shop with her online. I have a wish list from there now!
As you can probably guess, I’m kind of floating on clouds these days. I am SO thrilled and SO thankful for my Johnston Benchworks furniture! Waiting (forever) was well worth it. :)
Thanks for stopping by......and for waiting so patiently on the pictures until I could get back home and get them posted! Have a great day! :)
I know it’s the pictures you really want to see, so I’ll just oblige you with those right now. :)
It is all still a work in progress. Now I have the furniture and it’s time to change out some of the wall décor. It will definitely still have an Americana feel but I would like to add more gameboards. I already purchased a George Washington oil painting which needs to be stretched and framed. I will be on the look-out for side tables. And I'm not so sure about the cedar chest in the middle of the room now either. But those things will just be icing on the cake. :)
The sofa is the Chippendale long sofa. The legs on all the furniture are the Wheat Oak grooved. Ever since we built this house (actually before that), I’ve wanted a red checked couch. I LOVE this couch! I can’t stop looking at it. The fabric is in the Steiger Check Red. Did I tell you that I love my red checked couch? :)
The fireside chair definitely needs a throw pillow. I’m working on that too. This chair is the Miller’s Creek Wing Chair and I love the way it envelopes me when I sit in it. It is so comfortable! We purchased extra fabric with the intention of Jason building me a stool that we will have covered in the same fabric, which is Liberty Check. Color is called Brazen.
These two recliner chairs are the Maple Springs Recliners. They are comfortable too. I was a little worried about the comfort since we had never sat in one, but they are comfortable! They only recline to one position but I'm already used to that. Even Jason says they are comfortable. I loved this fabric with the sofa! It is called Colony Mustard. This is one fabric that I was absolutely sure of and didn't waiver from when deciding on color choices with my red sofa. I knew I wanted it in there somewhere somehow.
Our next project in the house will be to remove the wallpaper from the foyer/stair area, paint the walls, encase the windows above it in wood, and put wooden treads on the staircase. I think removing the old gray carpet and the dated wallpaper will make a big difference. The plan was to do this before the furniture arrived, but as you know, we’ve had unplanned circumstances these past few months. So we will be covering furniture and digging into another home improvement project. Nothing unusual for us, I suppose. :)
And I'll let you in on a secret because we all know that Johnston Benchworks furniture doesn't come just real cheap......Or at least I didn't know it, but was thrilled to find out! We purchased our furniture through American Heritage Crafters. We stumbled upon their sale in March. Because they are the largest dealers of Johnston Benchworks furniture, they are able to offer a huge sale every March and October. They offer a buy one piece of JB at full price and get the next equal or lesser value piece for free. In our case, we purchased the sofa, and got the fireside chair free. We purchased one recliner and received the other free. We had to pay to have it shipped (and wait for the truck to be in our area), but still saved over $2000. This actually made it not that much more expensive than most furniture.....maybe just a little, but much more within our budget range anyway. Ask for Kathy and tell her I sent you! :) And Kris (the designer there) was also wonderful in helping with color choices from a designer's point of view. They were so pleasant to work with. And the delivery company (Alpha and Omega) did a great job with their "white glove delivery" and were very careful and thorough in moving the furniture in.
And I also want to say that if you are ever anywhere near Clinton, Tennessee, check out The Speckled Hen. Sharon, the owner, is wonderful too. She was very helpful to me as I was deciding on furniture and we had the privilege of visiting her store. She also sells Johnston Benchworks, as well as many other wonderful primitives there! If you are ever near there, don't miss her store! And if you aren't near there, you can still shop with her online. I have a wish list from there now!
As you can probably guess, I’m kind of floating on clouds these days. I am SO thrilled and SO thankful for my Johnston Benchworks furniture! Waiting (forever) was well worth it. :)
Thanks for stopping by......and for waiting so patiently on the pictures until I could get back home and get them posted! Have a great day! :)