Froelich's Frolics

Valentine's Day Flashback

2012-02-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

I don't remember this particular Valentine's Day, but it was a pretty special one....

Instead of telling the story again, I am posting the link to the original post. Click here!

Music Monday -- You're Not Alone

2012-02-13T23:14:00.000-05:00

This is an older (90's) song by the Kingsmen Quartet. I was reminded of it while listening to the Squire Parsons Tribute CD.

There are a lot of people at church going through different trials right now, and I love the reminder in this song. We are not alone in our trials, Jesus is by our side. Isn't it amazing how He can be by my side, while at the same time, being at the side of a brother or sister in Christ? He can help (and is helping) in my situation while He is taking care of a completely different situation in the life of someone else.

We serve a wonderful loving Savior.

Project 365 -- Week 6

2012-02-12T22:28:00.000-05:00

Week of Sunday, February 5 to Saturday, February 11, 2012

It was a pretty busy week, so I missed three days...:(

Monday, February 6, 2012

I was so busy I had to bring some work home with me.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Dinner from Taco Bell. So healthy, I know...lol.

Friday, February 10, 2012

Valentine treat for the boys in Junior Church.

Thank Pinterest for the idea. Boys thought it was neat today.

Saturday, February 11, 2012

We found cheap tickets on StubHub for the Pacers/Nuggets game.

We went with Jenn and Nate. The Pacers were doing so well in the 1st quarter, but ended up losing. :(

Music Monday -- He's Still On The Throne

2012-02-07T00:02:00.000-05:00

I am so glad that no matter what happens, God is on His throne.

Pinterest Project

2012-02-06T11:37:00.002-05:00

Here is a link to the printable I found on Pinterest. It was an easy project for Valentine's Day. Just print it, trim to fit an 8 x 10 frame, and frame it. I found my frame at Target for less than $4. Easy-peasy.

Source: thegirlcreative.com via Vanessa on Pinterest

Project 365 -- Week 5

2012-02-05T23:35:00.000-05:00

Photos from the week of January 29 to February 4, 2012.

Sunday, January 29

We saw these Super Bowl signs while driving through downtown Franklin.

Monday, January 30

I woke up with a sore and scratchy throat. I took some Get Well Soon, an immunity booster, supplied myself with Vitamin C, and gargled warm salt water. But, I have battled the itchy throat and dry cough all week.

Tuesday, January 31

Carl bought me some pretty pink tulips. I needed some cheering up. January 31 was my Dad's birthday, so I was feeling sad and missing Dad.

Wednesday, February 1

A finished Pinterest project. I found this cute printable on Pinterest. I found the frame at Target.

Thursday, February 2

I was trying to get a photo of the bright blue jay in our back yard. He flew away, so I could only get his mate.

Saturday, February 4

Another Super Bowl sign, this time in Old Town Greenwood

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

2012-01-31T09:00:00.001-05:00

Here is the recipe for the photo I posted in my Project 365 - Week 4 post.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

1/2 cup Hellmann's® or Best Foods® Real Mayonnaise
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 1-1/4 lbs.) (I used about 8 chicken breast tenders.)
4 tsp. Italian seasoned dry bread crumbs (I didn't have bread crumbs, so I used crushed Ritz crackers.)

Preheat oven to 425°.
Combine Hellmann's® or Best Foods® Real Mayonnaise with cheese in medium bowl. Arrange chicken on baking sheet. Evenly top with mayonnaise mixture, then sprinkle with bread crumbs.
Bake 20 minutes or until chicken is thoroughly cooked.

This was really good. I cooked mine for about 25 minutes because the chicken wasn't completely thawed. It was really tender and juicy. Carl loved it.

Music Monday - He's Everything I Need

2012-01-30T23:57:00.000-05:00

This song is by the Kingsmen Quartet. It has a very catchy tune, you will definitely have it stuck in your head after hearing it. I like the words to the song. I am glad that Jesus is Everything I need. If you have Jesus, you really do have everything.

Project 365 -- Week 4

2012-01-29T21:57:00.000-05:00

Sunday, January 22, 2012 to Saturday, January 28, 2012

VBS Catalogs. I use them as guidelines for Junior Church Themes.
Sunday

Tuesday

This a new recipe I tried. It is Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Simple to make, and it tasted really good. I will post the recipe this week. This photo is right before I put the dish in the oven.

Thursday

I found this CD/DVD combo at our local Christian bookstore. We watched the DVD Saturday night.

Saturday

Our nephew is playing basketball through the YMCA. This was his first game.

He did pretty well. He made a couple baskets, although he forgot to dribble down the court. :)

Music Monday -- There Is Nothing Greater Than Grace

2012-01-23T23:50:00.000-05:00

This is on Marshall Hall's solo CD, which is really good, by the way. This is one of my favorite songs. It is a great reminder. There is NOTHING greater than God's grace.

Hereos of the Faith -- In Loving Memory

2012-01-22T21:56:00.000-05:00

This weekend, Heaven gained a new saint. Rosemary Douglas passed from this life to the joys of Glory. She doesn't have to worry about cancer any more. She suffered for so long, but is not suffering any longer. She was one of my "Heroes of the Faith" and I will miss her very much. Sister Douglas was such a great example of a sweet Christian woman, and I pray that I can be half the saint she was. As I was thinking about her the past couple of days, this song came to mind. I am so thankful for the saints God has placed in my life, to be examples and prayer warriors.

Project 365 -- Week 3

2012-01-22T21:36:00.000-05:00

Here are the photos for the week of January 15 to 21, 2012. I did miss Tuesday and Wednesday of this week.

Some of these were taken with my iPhone. (What did we do before camera phones?)

This is what Carl and I had after church on Sunday night. We had my leftover chicken and pasta from Outback Steakhouse and a roll from Texas Roadhouse. Yummy!

I found this idea on Pinterest. Pay yourself a dollar for every day you work out. So, for the week ending January 14th, I worked out 4 days. (I worked out 4 days this past week as well.) When I get to $100, I will reward myself with a shopping trip...:)

I received this catalog in the mail on Thursday. I always like looking through these. I saw that Guy Penrod is coming out with a CD of all hymns in March. Plus, the Gaither Vocal Band will be at Indiana Wesleyan University in October. (Possible birthday present, maybe?)

I bought this candy at Target on Friday. It is for my Junior Church kids. I gave them the challenge of learning an extra Bible verse this month. When they say it, they get to choose one of these. I had two kids say the extra verse today. I love that our group of kids like learning Scripture.

We found this cute wreath at Michael's. Getting ready for Valentine's Day around here.

Music Monday -- Thread of Hope

2012-01-16T23:45:00.000-05:00

I was reminded of this song while thinking of a dear, sweet lady in our church who is going through a lot right now. She has been battling cancer for a while now. She has mentioned a number of times that she feels like she is hanging on by a thread. She says that she is tying a knot at the end of the rope and is going to keep hanging on. She has told us that God will never gives us more than we can bear. Right now, she is bearing a lot. She is still staying true to Jesus and keeping sweet. If you think of it, please pray for Sister Rosemary Douglas, and her family. I know that they would greatly appreciate it.

Project 365 - Week 2

2012-01-15T22:47:00.000-05:00

Here are the photos I took for the week of January 8 to 14, 2012.

The moon on Sunday night after church. Someone mentioned how pretty it looked at church.

I didn't take a picture on Monday...

The stuff in the bottle on the left is one of my favorite hair products, but I ran out of it. It is $36 a bottle at the JC Penney Salon, but they haven't had it in stock the past couple of times I have been there. So, I found the stuff on the right in the blue bottle for $8 at Target. It is alright, but a little more oily, and doesn't smell as good. I may just have to break down and buy the good stuff online.

The bulletin board in Junior Church this month. We are learning about forgiveness. We are also reading the book Treasures of the Snow.

The backyard on Thursday at lunch time.

I am trying to choose a song for a special I have to sing later this month.

We used our gift card to Outback Steakhouse on Saturday.

This is a pic of the yummy Blue Cheese Wedge Salad I ordered. Love this salad!

Music Monday - More Than Ever

2012-01-09T23:12:00.000-05:00

Karen Peck and New River

"More Than Ever"

"All the miles of my journey have proved my Lord true, and He is so precious to me."

Project 365 -- Photography

2012-01-07T23:29:00.000-05:00

This year, I am trying to complete Project 365, where you take a photo every day. This is week 1 (January 1 -7).

My attempt at chicken spaghetti. I took it to Grandma's house for Sunday dinner.

Everyone said it was really good.

Gotta love fuzzy socks...:)

I used a gift card I received for Christmas to treat myself for dinner.

Love this place!

I had a horrible headache on Wednesday night. I was thankful for some medicine.

I received these songbooks on Thursday. Looking forward to putting them to use.

I love my bank. They have free popcorn!

We went to the Pacer game on Saturday. Roy Hibbert sprained his ankle and had to leave the game for a while. He got the ankle taped up and returned to the game. He ended the game with the most points for the team.

So, there you go. My first week of photos. Pretty random, I know, but it kinda gives you a different look at my life. Hopefully I can keep up with the picture-taking, and it will improve my photography skills.
Till next week!

Music Monday - Homesick

2012-01-02T20:38:00.000-05:00

Another song in memory of Dad.

"If home's where my heart is, then I'm out of place."

Music Monday - Knowing You'll Be There

2012-01-02T20:27:00.000-05:00

This is in loving memory of my Dad. I miss him so much! Heaven sure has a greater pull every day.

Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-12-29T20:24:00.000-05:00

Along with the Oroe Truffles, I made some chocolate chip cookies. These are the chocolate chip cookies I have made in a while. They truly are ULTIMATE. I found the recipe on the back of a Gold Medal flour sack. If you like chocolate chip cookies, try making these.

Source: bettycrocker.com via Vanessa on Pinterest

Oreo Truffles

2011-12-29T20:16:00.000-05:00

I made these Oreo truffles on Christmas Eve to take to my Grandma's house for Christmas. They are super easy to make, and taste very, very good. I ended up taking the leftover truffles to work with me on Monday. Everyone that tried them, loved them.

Source: thecapitolbaker.com via Melissa on Pinterest

Oreo Truffles

1 package Oreo cookies
1 (8oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 package of almond bark or melting chocolate

Crush Oreos in a food processor or food chopper until crumbled very fine. Mix Oreos with cream cheese until a soft dough forms.
Roll dough into 1 inch balls. Chill in freezer or fridge until firm.
Dip Oreo balls into melted chocolate and place on wax paper lined cookie sheets. Chill again until hardened. Enjoy!

Love this Candle

2011-12-25T22:01:00.000-05:00

I got this candle today from Carl. I am burning it tonight, even though I am breaking my rule of not burning a new scent until I have burned the old candle completely. It smells soooo good! It is from Bath and Body Works.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T08:00:00.003-05:00

From our home to yours, Merry Christmas!

Christmas Card Blessing Ring

2011-12-24T11:21:00.000-05:00

I found this on another blog and decided to try to make one for our Christmas cards this year. I wanted to get more fancy ribbon, but we were in a hurry and didn't have the time to look around. I liked how it turned out though. I also like that I can just hang this on the Christmas tree and our cards are always in sight, instead of being put in a box. I love getting Christmas cards. I hate how it seems to a tradition that is dying out.

I pinned the link to the instructions to Pinterest, so here is the picture.

Source: brodyfrancis.blogspot.com via Vanessa on Pinterest

Music Monday - Your Presence for Christmas

2011-12-19T20:30:00.000-05:00

I heard this song while watching a wedding recently, and then again at the Christmas Program at Union Bible College. I love the words. This is my prayer. I want to have the presence of Jesus near to me and my loved ones this Christmas, for that is the best gift to have. Without Jesus, we wouldn't have Christmas at all.

Music Monday - O Come, O Come Emmanuel

2011-12-12T22:57:00.000-05:00

This is one of my favorite carols.

Music Monday - O Holy Night

2011-12-05T21:30:00.000-05:00

Nobody sings this song like David Phelps...

Pinterest Recipe - Crockpot Italian Chicken

2011-11-28T21:54:00.000-05:00

Source: homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com via Vanessa on Pinterest

Crockpot Italian Chicken:
4 chicken breasts, 1 packet Zesty Italian dressing seasoning, 1 8 oz. cream cheese (softened), 2 cans cream of chicken soup; Cook on low for 4 hours. If sauce is too thick, add a little milk. Serve over pasta.

We tried this a couple of weeks ago and really liked it. It is super easy, and tastes really good!

Music Monday - Count Your Blessings

2011-11-28T21:14:00.000-05:00

Count Your Blessings by the Collingsworth Family

Music Monday -- Thankful For The Change

2011-11-21T21:30:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful for the change that Jesus made in my life.
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. II Corinthians 5:17

2011-11-17T00:33:00.000-05:00

I loved the way these clouds looked tonight as I was leaving work...

Music Monday - Thank You Lord, For Your Blessings On Me

2011-11-14T19:36:00.000-05:00

Continuing with the "Thanksgiving" themed songs, here is "Thank You Lord, For Your Blessings On Me" performed by Gordon Mote and Jason Crabb.

Have You Thanked A Veteran Today?

2011-11-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

Today is 11-11-11.

Veteran's Day.

Do you have any veterans in your family? I do. My husband, my father, my uncle, and my grandpa were all Veterans. I know at least one of my Grandpa's brothers was in the service as well, maybe two of his brothers. I think a couple of my Grandma's brothers served in the miltary as well. My Dad, uncle, and Grandpa were all in the Army, and my husband served in the Air Force.

Grandpa served during World War II, and was overseas in Germany. He talked about his time in the service a lot, especially as the Alzheimer's progressed.

Sorry, these photos are old, and not in the best condition.

Grandpa Miller

Dad and my Uncle Don served in the Army during peace time, as my Dad called it. They Dad was stationed both went to different countries, my Dad to Panama, where he met and married Mom, and my uncle in other countries. Uncle Don spent more time in the service than my Dad did.

My Daddy

Uncle Don with Grandpa and Grandma Miller

I don't have a photo of my husband Carl in a military uniform, but Carl was in the Air Force. He spent time in North Dakota, Alaska (in the Aleutian Islands, very close to Russia) and in upstate New York, after completing his basic training in San Antonio. He did weather observation in the service, which is what he does now at the Indianapolis Airport. He must really enjoy it..hahaha!

We should all take the time to thank a Veteran for what they have done for our country. In the words of a song, "all gave some, but some gave all."

Thankful for the freedoms we have today.

Recent Frolics

2011-11-10T23:36:00.000-05:00

Here are some of the things we have done lately...

After my birthday at the beginning of October, we went to an IU football game...they lost...:( It was a fun experience though.

We went to our nephew's flag football game. It was pretty cute. :)

Carl and I took two of my Junior Church kids to Toys R Us and McDonald's one Saturday. It was a special prize for learning memory verses.

We went to my Grandma's annual bonfire and hayride. I always love going to that. It is one of my favorite things about Fall.

We went to a Booth Brothers concert in Bluffton, IN. We love the Booth Brothers.

We made a quick trip to Brown County State Park. This was the last Saturday in October, so a lot of the leaves were already off the trees. There were still some beautiful places down there though.

Life is busy...sometimes too busy. I have to constantly remind myself to take time for the important things in life, and not to worry about the small stuff. Easier said than done sometimes, I know. But God is helping me.

I thank God for His multiple blessings on us. We are so undeserving, but He sees fit to supply our needs and even our desires every now and then.

Pumpkin Muffins

2011-11-07T20:26:00.001-05:00

I made these 2 ingredient Pumpkin Muffins this weekend. They are super easy and super delicious. Even Carl kinda liked them and he doesn't like pumpkin.

Source: sweet-verbena.blogspot.com via Vanessa on Pinterest

1 box yellow or spice cake mix (I used a spice cake mix)
1 15 oz can of pumpkin

Beat together cake mix and pumpkin with mixer.
Fill muffin liners 3/4 full.
Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes.
Enjoy!

Music Monday

2011-11-07T20:16:00.000-05:00

During the month of November, all my Music Mondays will be songs on the theme of giving thanks. This one is by Charlotte Ritchie. It is called "In Everything Give Thanks." It reminds us that we can always find something to be thankful for, even in what may be considered bad situations.

DIY T-shirt Scarf

2011-10-31T21:50:00.001-04:00

This scarf how-to has been floating around on Pinterest for quite a while. I thought I would try to make one. It turned out to be very easy. (Which is good, since I get to teach others how to make it at our next church Ladies Night...)

All you need is an XL or XXL t-shirt, a paper plate, pen, and a pair of scissors.

Lay your shirt out on a flat surface.

Take your plate and lay on your shirt and trace circles. You want to get at least 8 circles, preferably 10 to 12.

Once you have traced circles, cut them out. Once you have all the circles cut out, cut the circles into spirals. I'm sorry, I don't have a picture of that.

When you have all the circles cut into spirals, stretch the spirals out to make ruffles. I had 13 circles that I stretched out. I took an extra piece of t-shirt fabric and tie them all together. This is my finished product. I plan on wearing it tomorrow.

Here is the link from Pinterest. (Click on the photo)

Source: thediydish.com via Vanessa on Pinterest

...and here is another link:

Source: tidymom.net via Vanessa on Pinterest

Music Monday -- My Name Is Jesus

2011-10-31T21:11:00.000-04:00

I know the video is not the best, but it was the best I could find of this song. I heard this for the first time with my cousin Jennifer and her boyfriend Nate. I fell in love with it the first time I heard it. The album version has Mark Bishop, Lauren Talley, Ivan Parker and Jon Mitchell singing. I guess Ivan wasn't there the night this was performed.

This video was from National Quartet Convention. I didn't record this. I found it on Youtube.

My Name Is Jesus
Mark Bishop
Possum Run Music/BMI • Chris White Music/BMI • Asheville Music Publishing/BMI

My name is Matthew
You might have seen me
Preaching and singing on these dusty streets
Just one of many who were following Jesus
We were all witness to miraculous feats

Maybe you just heard last week they took Him
On Friday my Lord was hung on a cross
It’s been three days now and I feel so empty
It’s Sunday morning and I feel so lost

My name is Mary
My heart is heavy
I’ve cried so much, I can’t cry anymore
How could this happen? He was so gentle
I’ve never met a man like Him before

How I adored Him how I believed Him
Such a sweet peace when He walked in the room
I washed his feet, oh but lately I can’t sleep
It’s Sunday morning, think I’ll visit His tomb

My name is Peter
Maybe they told you
I had denied Him I’m sorry it’s true
He knew my weakness still He forgave me
I stood up to the soldiers, there were only a few

But I felt His hand come to rest on my shoulder
He lowered my sword
“Is this what I’ve taught?”
That’s when they took Him; later they beat Him
It’s Sunday morning; I wish now I’d fought

I am a soldier
I am a Roman
I saw the wound in His side, cut so deep
I have been stationed all night at his graveside
But it’s Sunday morning, and I fell asleep

There in the darkness the earth shook and trembled
The tomb was found empty the stone rolled away
Mary left weeping on the path was a stranger
In the first light of Sunday, she asked Him His name
She asked Him His name

“My name is Jesus!”

He said “My name is Jesus and I have returned
from the grave in fulfillment of my Father’s plan
I marched into hell, past the gates of that Kingdom
And I have returned with the keys in my hand
I am the Son of God
I’m the Redeemer
I’m the Great Shepherd and I am the Lamb
I was the crucified sacrifice Friday night
But it’s Sunday morning and I am alive!

My name is Jesus! (Tell all the world He’s alive, He’s alive!)
Tell all the world He’s alive, He’s alive!
My name is Jesus! (Tell all the world He’s alive, He’s alive!)
Tell all the world he’s alive, he’s alive!
My name is Jesus! (Tell all the world He’s alive, He’s alive!)
Tell all the world He’s alive, He’s alive!
My name is Jesus! (Tell all the world He’s alive, He’s alive!)
Tell all the world He’s alive, He’s alive!
My name is Jesus! (Tell all the world He’s alive, He’s alive!)
Tell all the world He’s alive, He’s alive!
My name is Jesus!

Music Monday -- Tell The Mountain

2011-10-24T20:34:00.000-04:00

This week, the song that I have been enjoying is by The Collingsworth Family. It is called "Tell The Mountain" and is on their latest album, Part of the Family.

Here is a video of the Collingsworth Family performing the song.

Lyrics:
Words and Music by Lee Black, Sue C. Smith and Keanna West

Verse 1
In the foothills of sorrow
Looking up from the valley of fear
You can see doubt off in the distance
And you’re about to lose heart right here
Don’t ever give in, don’t ever give up
God is with you and you’ll overcome

Chorus
The mountain will tell you
That you can’t make it over
It will try to convince you
That it’s way too high
Though you feel defeated
Know that God keeps His promise
So you tell the mountain
Just how big your God is

Verse 2
Just try to remember
All the trials He has brought you through
When His power gave you strength for the journey
The very hour you needed it to
So don’t be discouraged, ‘cause time after time
God’s never failed you, go on and climb

I would LOVE to get the sheet music for this song and try to sing it as a special at church.
I think we need this reminder that God is bigger than our problems. I know I tend to try to solve the problems myself instead of letting God handle them. I am learning, albeit slowly, to give everything to Him.

Easy Pot Roast Recipe

2011-10-18T19:26:00.000-04:00

This is actually cooking right now. It smells sooo good, making me very hungry for lunch tomorrow.

This is from the Gooseberry Patch "Super Fast Slow Cooking" book.

So Easy Slow Cooker Pot Roast

3 to 4 pound chuck roast
1 (10-3/4 oz) can tomato soup
1 (10-3/4 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
2 (16 oz) cans whole potatoes, drained
2 (14-1/2 oz) cans sliced carrots, drained (I use whole baby carrots)

Mix together all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on low setting for 7 to 8 hours.

So easy and tastes so good, even warmed over the next day. I usually cook it one afternoon/evening, and we have it for lunch the next day.

Music Monday -- Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me)

2011-10-18T19:14:00.000-04:00

This is a day late, but I have been loving this song lately. I know it is an old song found in many hymnals (known as One Day), but Casting Crowns puts their own twist on it.

Making These This Weekend

2011-10-12T22:16:00.004-04:00

EDIT: These turned out great! They were very good.

I found this on Pinterest. They look very easy to make, so I am making them this Saturday for my Grandma's annual hayride and bonfire. I will let you know how they turn out.

Source: dinnerwiththedonnells.blogspot.com via Vanessa on Pinterest

Music Monday -- A Masterpiece of Mercy

2011-10-10T21:12:00.000-04:00

"A Masterpiece of Mercy" -- performed by the Booth Brothers

A Masterpiece of Mercy

He knew what I was when He made me.
He saw the sinner I’d become.
Yet He knew He had grace that could save me.
His latest work of art had just begun.

He started with an old dirty canvas.
My sin had left me tattered, bent, and marred.
Then this artist turned His light upon my sadness,
And began to wash away the blackest part.

When all the stains were gone He started painting
With colors that I’d never seen before.
Then with joy He was ready to display me,
To show the world what the Cross was for

A masterpiece of mercy; a miracle of grace
When the master sees one hurting
And wipes the pain away.
The canvas of the artist
Becomes a holy place
For a masterpiece of mercy; a miracle of grace.

Now I’m getting ready for Heaven.
Every day just makes me want to go.
But the artist hasn’t stopped; He’s still painting,
And when He’s finished, He will take me Home.

A masterpiece of mercy; a miracle of grace
When the master sees one hurting
And wipes the pain away.
The canvas of the artist
Becomes a holy place
For a masterpiece of mercy; a miracle of grace.

The canvas of the artist
Becomes a holy place
For a masterpiece of mercy; a miracle of grace.

Written by Jim Brady and Rodney Griffin; Brady House Publishing/Songs of Greater Vision

I love this song! It is one of my favorites from the latest Booth Brothers album, Let It Be Known. It reminds me that no matter how messed up a person's life gets, Jesus can make that person into a masterpiece of mercy.

Music Mondays

2011-10-03T22:50:00.000-04:00

I am going to try something new. Every Monday, I will do a post about a song that has meant a lot to me that week, or a music video that I liked. This week:

This video isn't the best, but I love this song by Legacy Five. It is on their latest CD, A Wonderful Life. The song is called Ask Me Why.

Here are the lyrics to the chorus:

Ask me who, and I'll tell you it's Jesus.
Ask me how, and I'll say it's the blood.
Ask me where, and I'll take you to Calvary.
Ask me why, and I'll tell you it's love.

So simple, but so true.

Gaither Family Fall Fest Concert

2011-10-03T22:02:00.000-04:00

Saturday night, Carl took me to the Gaither Family Fall Fest concert in Anderson, at the Reardon Auditorium on the campus of Anderson University. The performers were Woody Wright, who, along with Gloria Gaither, hosted the concert, The Brown Family, The Nelons, and Jason Crabb. It was a great concert. Our seats were only 5 rows from the front.

Woody Wright sang a couple of songs to gt things started.

Then, he introduced the Browns onto the stage.

They did an outstanding job. We had never heard them in concert before, and were pleasantly surprised at how much we enjoyed them. The kids are amazing on the violins.

The Nelons were next. I loved the songs that they sang. Kelly Nelon told a story about her daughter, Amber and American Idol. I guess Amber was able to audition and made it pretty far. When she was in front of the main three judges, Jennifer Lopez asked her if she would be willing to dress more seductively, and to sing only secular songs. Amber answered that she would not be willing to compromise her values and beliefs. Amber got a long standing ovation from the crowd for that. It's so good to see young people standing up for what they believe.

Jason Crabb was the last performer. He didn't sing as long as we were expecting him to, considering he was the headliner. But, he did a great job.

It was also neat getting to meet Jason and talk with him for a while.

Thank you, Carl, for a great evening!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2011-10-03T20:49:00.000-04:00

Today is my birthday! I still act like a kid, and I get all excited for my birthday every year. A friend of mine and I say that we celebrate our birthdays all month long. Her birthday is also in October.

I am blessed with family and friends that treat me so well. I don't deserve such good friends and family in my life, but I am thankful for each and every one. Even if I didn't get a sing gift, I am blessed beyond measure!

Speaking of gifts, though, I did get a lot of those. Carl spoiled me as always. He took me to a Jason Crabb concert in Anderson this past Saturday. Today, he gave me a gift set and a candle from Bath and Body Works,

some pretty fall flowers,

tickets to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra with Joshua Bell in June,

and tickets to see the Booth Brothers later this month. The Booth Brothers are one of my favorite Southern Gospel groups, number 2 after the Gaither Vocal Band. :)

I also got some money from Mom, my uncle, and my in-laws, and a gift card to JC Penney and a cute Snoopy doll from my brother. Snoopy plays "Linus and Lucy," which is my favorite Peanuts song. Matter of fact, I think James and I are probably a lot like Linus and Lucy...hahaha!

I also got two neat crosses from my best friend Amy in Texas.

Plus, I got so many birthday greetings on Facebook today...makes a girl feel loved!

I have had a great birthday. It has been pretty much headache-free, so that in itself makes it a good day!

Thank you, everyone for the birthday wishes!

National Quartet Convention 2011 Part 2 (Friday)

2011-09-26T22:08:00.000-04:00

Our second day at NQC started with a showcase featuring Dr. David Jeremiah. We got to the Expo Center around 10AM and the showcase started at 10:30. The Hoppers sang a song before Dr. Jeremiah spoke. His message was from Revelation 2, where God is speaking to the church at Ephesus. The church that had lost its first love. Dr. Jeremiah gave an excellent message. It spoke to me. As Christian workers, we tend to get SO busy working for God, that we forget the REASON we do what we do. (At least, that is what it is like for me.) I have had to ask God to forgive many times for getting too busy doing good things, and not taking the time for Him.

After hearing Dr. Jeremiah, we made our way to Freedom Hall for the Bill Gaither Sing A Long.

The stage was packed with Southern Gospel artists. There were several great songs sung by the whole group, including the audience. A highlight was when Bill Gaither had Mosie Lister join him at the front of the stage. The crowd gave him a standing ovation. This man has written so many good gospel songs.

After the Sing A Long was over, Carl and I went to get some lunch while we waited for the exhibit hall to open up. We walked around the Hall for while, where I purchased some more CDs (I had bought some on Thursday night too.) I also got to meet this guy...Marshall Hall.

He is super sweet and his wife was sweet as well. I bought Marshall's solo CD, and it is very good.

I also met Charlotte Ritchie, (bought a couple CDs)

and Tim Riley of Gold City.

The highlights of the Friday evening concert were hearing Kim Collingsworth play the Hallelujah Chorus (WOW!)

and "He's Alive" by the Gaither Vocal Band. David Phelps is AMAZING!

We loved our time at NQC and look forward to going back again next year!

National Quartet Convention 2011 Part 1 (Thursday)

2011-09-20T22:54:00.000-04:00

This year, Carl and I went down to NQC for two days, Thursday and Friday. The first thing we attended was the Gaither Vocal Band Reunion on Thursday afternoon. It was really good. I was a little disappointed that Guy Penrod was not there, but the concert was very good.

After the GVB Reunion, we left to go check in at our hotel, which was the same one we stayed at last year, Holiday Inn by the Louisville Airport. It is a newer hotel and is really nice. It is also right of the interstate, and easy to get to. After we checked in and changed clothes, we went back to Freedom Hall for the evening concert. We watched part of the concert, and then went out to the Exhibit Hall to walk around a bit. We talked a bit with Ronnie and Michael Booth. They are such super sweet guys.

I got to meet Steve Green as well.

Some of the highlights of Thursday's night concert were:

Collingsworth Family - Fear Not Tomorrow and Tell The Mountain

The Isaacs - I'm Going to Love You Through It

(This was written in honor of Lily Isaacs battle with cancer. They group had cancer survivors come up on stage with them. Touching moment.)

Legacy Five - I've Been Changed.

(Glenn Dustin sounds better each time I hear him sing this song.)

The Booth Brothers - Then I Met The Master

(Love the smooth sound of The Booth Brothers.)

Update

2011-09-20T22:34:00.000-04:00

I am not doing so great on keeping this blog updated, am I? We get so busy with life that I don't have the time to journal it.

A couple of weeks ago, Carl and I went to Apple Works for the first time this fall. We love going there. Carl loves apples, and you can get a peck of them for only $10, and that is a lot of apples. I love their apple dumplings...yum! We always buy one and share it there. They also have a small farm yard of sorts with turkeys, goats, sheep, chickens, etc. The goats are fun to watch. There is also a pumpkin patch and train ride for little kids. We took some pictures as we walked along a trail. We look forward to going to Apple Works again soon. It is a great place to go in the Fall.

2011-09-05T18:27:00.001-04:00

I don't know how long it has been around, but I have recently come across a website called Pinterest. (I remember it as interest with a P.) It is sorta like Facebook, your Favorites list, and Google all rolled into one. You can find people to follow (the Facebook part), search for anything (the Google part) and "pin" anything that catches your eye to your boards (the Favorites part). You can have as many boards as you like. I have boards like Recipes, For the Home, Hairstyles, Crafts and DIY, etc.

At first, it was a little overwhelming. But I soon got the hang of it, and check it out at least once a day. I also have the iPhone app, so I can "pin" while on the go. You can pin things you find on the web, say a recipe from Taste of Home, to your recipe board. Then, you don't have to go back to the Taste of Home website and search for it again. You can just go to your Recipes board and click on the picture to go to the recipe. Or while looking at the boards and pins of others, you can re-pin anything to your boards for future reference. You can get a lot of ideas for parties and showers, decorating, gifts, you name it.

You do have to be invited to join, but I was able to click on a button that said "Request Invitation" and received an email to sign up for an account.

Check it out...it is a lot of fun! I will warn you, it becomes addicting fast. It can be a huge time zapper. I have to give myself a time limit.

Pinterest

A Birthday Card for Carl.

2011-08-31T23:44:00.001-04:00

This a card that my Mom gave to Carl for his birthday.
Everyone got a kick out of it. They thought it was sooo funny.

Happy (late) Birthday to Carl!

2011-08-29T23:51:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was my sweet hubby's birthday. He is such a wonderful husband to me. I love him so much!

Thursday, I treated him to lunch at Fogo de Chao. He loved it. That place is awesome. Thursday night we went to Columbus to hear Gold City in concert. That was a great concert.

I had bought tickets to the Colts/Packers game this past Friday night a few weeks ago. Friday afternoon, my boss gives me the season tickets the company gets every year. So I was able to give the tickets I bought to someone else to enjoy, and Carl and I were able to enjoy the game, along with my brother James and Carl's mom. Too bad the Colts lost though.

I bought an ice cream cake from Dairy Queen to take to my Grandma's house to have after Sunday dinner.

Carl had a nice birthday. I tend to spoil him...just a little. He does the same thing for me though.

Indianapolis Zoo

2011-08-19T18:54:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, Carl and I went to the Indianapolis Zoo. We had not been in a few years, so it was nice to visit the place again. Plus, the zoo was putting the new baby elephant was out in the exhibit for a few hours every day that starting that week. That little elephant was so stinkin' cute! See?

We watched the sweet little thing for quite a while. There were lots of other people watching the elephants too...along with some other zoo creatures. The cheetahs were next to the elephants. Boy, were they eyeing that little baby. First it was just one of the cheetahs staring at the elephant. Then all 3 were watching its' every move. Then, they all walked over to the fence separating their area from the elephants' area.

Finally, the momma and baby moved out of sight of the cheetahs.

We also enjoyed the new tiger exhibit. I love tigers, so I was especially excited to see this. The tigers now are really close to you. There is only thick glass between you and the tigers. When we were there, the one tiger kept pacing around the area, brushing up against the glass every now and then. It was awesome!

You can see how close he gets to the glass here.

I also love the dolphins at the zoo. We weren't able to go to one of the dolphin shows, but we went down to the Dolphin Dome to watch the dolphins for a little while.

We had a good time at the zoo. Even though it was a little hot, and it rained a little bit while we were there, it was still a good time. We even saw fellow blogger, Katressa, and her family there.

While I was in the bathroom, a little girl was washing her hands at the sink next to me. She turned to me and said, "We are having so much fun here today! I have never been to the zoo before." I told her that the zoo IS really fun. And I believe that. No matter how old you are, going to the zoo is always a fun thing to do.

New Gaither Videos

2011-08-09T19:37:00.000-04:00

I am so looking forward to these videos! Coming out at the end of September...just in time for my birthday! :)

Pandamania in Junior Church

2011-08-05T20:44:00.000-04:00

There was pandamania in Junior Church the month of July. I took the lessons from Group's VBS kit, and tailored it for Junior Church. I didn't actually buy the kit, but based the lesson plans off of the overview page in the catalog for the VBS kit. The theme of the kit was "Pandamania! Where God is wild about you!" This was based on Psalm 139.

The different days were:

God made you. -- God creates the world.

God listens to you. -- God hears Elijah's prayer on Mount Carmel.

God watches over you. -- God protects Jonah.

God loves you no matter what. -- Jesus died for you.

God gives good gifts. -- God gives Hannah a son.

I borrowed the cardboard stand-up from another church my aunt cleans.

They let me use it for no charge. That saved me a lot of money.

I ordered these character posters from e-churchdepot.com

They were cheaper than Group.

I had told the kids if they brought me a picture of a panda or a toy panda, they would get an extra ticket towards a prize. Elizabeth drew me this picture. How sweet of her.

It is not a bamboo tree, but a little panda liked to hide in the leaves.

See? I told the kids he was watching for well behaved children...not sure if they bought that.

I didn't get a picture of my bulletin board for some reason, but the background was bamboo branches. I stapled different pandas all over the board, and my memory verse was Psalm 139:17.

The kids enjoyed the theme this month a lot.

For the months of August and September, we are going to have a camping theme, based off of the SonRock Kids Camp by Gospel Light. Carl and I are going down to the church tomorrow to decorate. I am excited, even though I am so not a camping person. Roughing it to me means going without Internet access for more than a day...lol.

Precious....

2011-08-05T20:10:00.000-04:00

Here is a funny little story from Junior Church a couple weeks ago.

The memory verse for July was Psalm 139:17 -- How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God. How great is the sum of them!

I always like to try to make up motions for the important words in the verse, or at least try to emphasize certain words to help make the verse easier to learn. Well, for this verse, I acted like I was holding something small in my hands, trying to protect it, to explain the wordd "precious." (If any of you have seen The Lord of the Rings movies, you might know where this is going...)

Well, one of the older boys in the class, Jacob, started saying the word precious just like the creepy little character in the movies did, which made me laugh. I mentioned to him that he was freaking me out sounding like the little creature (I don't remember his name, sorry.) which just made him say it more. This, of course, distracted everyone from the memory verse, and those who knew about the LOTR starting talking about it, and those who didn't know about it asked what in the world we were talking about. I guess you needed to be there to get the full effect of the story.

So, the next couple of Sundays, when we would go over the verse, it was just a precious time...lol.

I Just Won 11 Swag Bucks on www.swagbucks.com

2011-08-01T21:27:00.000-04:00

I Just Won 11 Swag Bucks on www.swagbucks.com

You Were Faithful Yesterday

2011-07-27T23:10:00.000-04:00

Love this song. I am thankful we can trust God to be faithful each and every day. He is the same yesterday, today and forever.

Friends Forever

2011-07-26T21:28:00.001-04:00

Love my best friends. Just wish we could see each other more often.

Gospel Concert at Bill Monroe Music Park

2011-07-26T21:09:00.000-04:00

Saturday, July 9th, we went to a Southern Gospel concert down at the Bill Monroe Music Park. It was actually a 3 day concert, but we only went to the Saturday night concert. The performers were Gold City, Legacy 5 and The Perrys. The Perrys were actually there all 3 nights. We really enjoyed the outdoor concert. We were blessed by the music. It was so nice to just sit back and enjoy some good Southern Gospel music by three very talented groups.

It had been a long time since I had heard Gold City sing live, so it was a special treat to see Tim Riley and to hear his booming bass voice.

Gold City did several familiar songs, many I remember hearing the group sing a long time ago.

Gold City's pianist, Bryan Elliott, did a fantastic job.

The next group was The Perrys. They also did a great job. This is another group that I had not seen live for a while, if at all. I can't remember now.

Then, one of my favorite groups, Legacy 5, hit the stage. I love Legacy 5. They did an awesome job.

This was the first time for us seeing and hearing the new piano player, Trey Ivey. The rest of the group likes to give Trey a hard time since he is a lot younger than the other guys. He is only 21, but does an outstanding job.

All in all, it was a great concert. Like I said above, we had a great time. Looking forward to seeing Gold City in Columbus in August, and spending 2 days this year at National Quartet Convention.

Symphony on the Prairie - 4th of July Style

2011-07-13T23:33:00.001-04:00

Carl and I have been to Symphony on the Prairie several times, but never for the Independence Day performances, until this year. We went to SOTP the Saturday before the 4th, and enjoyed ourselves. Boy, was it a hot day though. The concert started at 8pm, and we got there before 7 to set up our camp chairs and walk around. I noticed this person trying to stay cool:

We also saw some Revolutionary War and Civil War re-enactors.

We loved the music we heard. We enjoyed some delicious kettle corn...yummy! The fireworks were fantastic.

I was wanting to get a photo of the flag, and just I pressed the shutter down, the wind changed direction and the flag was waving like this. Love it!

This was a fun part of our 4th of July weekend.

Deals at Kohl's

2011-07-08T23:36:00.000-04:00

I went to Kohl's last Friday and bought these items:

How much do you think I paid for everything? Any guesses?

Well...I spent $7.70...for everything. I was sooo proud of myself. The blouse was on the clearance rack for $5.50, and the wash towels were on sale for $3.99 each pack. I had a coupon for $5 off any purchase, along with another coupon for 15% off the entire order. Mom was very sweet and gave those coupons to me. My receipt says that I saved $67.00. How cool is that?!

Don't you just love a bargain?

Statue of Liberty -- Ivan Parker

2011-07-04T12:57:00.000-04:00

We had the UBC Sounds of Praise Quartet at our church last night. This is one of the songs that they sang. I am thankful for my country, but most of all, I am thankful for Jesus who died to give me true freedom.

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-04T12:50:00.000-04:00

Evening Sky - 6/30/2011

2011-07-01T12:30:00.001-04:00

I thought it was amazing...

Titanic Museum ~ Monday

2011-06-28T22:09:00.002-04:00

Monday morning of our vacation, we went to the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge. It was really amazing. I learned a lot about that ship and the people on that tragic voyage. The outside of the museum is a replica of the ship itself, complete with iceberg.

The guides are completely in character. Each visitor was given a "boarding pass" with the name and info of an actual passenger on the Titanic.

We couldn't take any pictures while inside the museum due to security and copyright issues, but we took a lot of pictures outside.

I loved this museum. I think this was one my favorite places we visited on our vacation.

Cades Cove ~ Great Smoky Mountain National Park

2011-06-28T22:08:00.000-04:00

Since the first day of our vacation (Saturday) was spent in driving down to Tennessee, I won't bore you with those details. I did a post on the cabin. Check that out below.

Sunday morning, we drove about an hour to the Maryville Pilgrim Holiness Church. We gave ourselves plenty of time to get there. We didn't want to get there late in case we got lost. We had no trouble at all finding the church, and were greeted warmly by Brother and Sister Walden and the congregation there at Maryville. We enjoyed a great service, then made our way back to the cabin to change clothes and have lunch before going to Cades Cove for the afternoon.

Well, we got a little stuck in the driveway at the cabin. Stuck as in one wheel was no longer on the road. We had to have a wrecker come and pull the car out.

We finally made our way to Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We took the scenic route there.

We really liked Cades Cove. I know some people think it is over-rated, but we enjoyed it. We saw some wild turkeys, a deer running across the field, some horses, and even a bear. I wasn't able to get a picture of the bear because there were so many other people trying to see it as well...and the park ranger was making everyone on the road keep moving.

We stopped at the old Methodist church, which had two doors, one for men, and the other for women. We saw the Cable Mill area, with the mill and a couple of houses.

The sun shining through these trees turned out so cool in this pic.

Greenwood Freedom Festival

2011-06-28T14:31:00.002-04:00

Saturday night we went to the Greenwood Freedom Festival. Greenwood always has their fireworks show the last Saturday in June. We have the tradition of meeting up with my in-laws there to enjoy the show. There were a lot if people there this year, I guess because it was such a beautiful day. I remember last year being so hot and muggy.

Greenwood really puts on a great fireworks display. It is one of the best in the area, at least in my opinion.

Here are some fireworks photos I took with my phone.

Tennessee Vacation 2011

2011-06-23T21:14:00.000-04:00

Last week, we were in Tennessee celebrating our 2nd wedding anniversary. We went down there on Saturday, the 11th, and came back home on Friday, the 17th. We had a great time. Carl had never been to the Smoky Mountain area before, and it had been 15 years since I last visited. A lot of new things and places were there, but there were also things that I remembered from 15 years ago.

I thought I would do a few posts on some of the highlights of our trip. This one is on our cabin.

Here are some pictures:

Looking at the cabin from the end of the driveway

Looking into the cabin from the bathroom doorway

Cabinets and kitchen sink

Bed area

Rocking chairs on porch

Looking across the room from the bed

Fireplace

My wonderful hubby on the porch swing

What a view!

We rented our cabin from Bear Camp Realty. Their office is located off the Parkway in Pigeon Forge. We chose the cabin named "Tranquility" when we made our reservation online. We saw that it offered wireless Internet access, it wasn't too secluded, and was very reasonably priced. When we got to the office, we were told there was a maintenance issue with our cabin. They offered us a choice of two other cabins, but they were more secluded and didn't have Internet access. We chose the better of the two, which was named "Pooh Bear." We were given a map, and we headed out to find our cabin.

Well, let me say that this cabin was very secluded. We were a good 15 to 20 minutes away from the Parkway, even though we were only a few miles away. The roads were very winding. My ears were popping like I was on an airplane. We finally made it to the road that led to the cabin. It took 5 minutes to get to the cabin from that road. We kept go higher and higher on the road, and the road kept curving this way and that way. I don't know how many times I said "Oh my goodness" at each new curve. We were definitely on a mountain...Bear Mountain.

The view from the porch was breath-taking, though. The cabin itself was gorgeous on the inside. It was decorated very well. As I was going through the cabin, checking everything out, I found a little surprise in the bathtub. I was expecting to see a spider or some other kind of bug, since we were in the Smokies. Instead, I saw a little lizard/salamander in the bathtub. Carl had to get the little thing out of the tub before I would go back into the bathroom. hahaha. I am such a sissy.

Overall, though, we really enjoyed our stay at the cabin. We would most likely rent from Bear Camp again if we go back to the Smokies.

Biltmore Estate

2011-06-15T13:50:00.002-04:00

We went to the Biltmore Estate today. Huge mansion and expansive grounds.

The Christmas Place

2011-06-14T08:54:00.002-04:00

I could spend days in this place. I love Christmas, and this place has it all. So many different trees and decorations. Absolutely beautiful.

Tennessee Vacation Day 1

2011-06-12T21:02:00.000-04:00

We are on vacation in Tennessee this week. Here are a couple of photos from our first day here.

View from our cabin

Wonderworks

Titanic Museum

More to come...

Thankful on a Thursday Evening

2011-06-09T19:19:00.000-04:00

This week I was reminded of how merciful God is to His children. He is even merciful to people that do not follow His ways. We were reading in the book of Daniel this week about the dream that King Nebuchadnezzar (had to look that name up to spell it correctly.) had with the tall tree that was cut down. If you remember, the tree was actually a symbol of the king himself. Daniel told the king that he was going to be removed from the throne for seven years. Even though God could have taken the kingdom away from Nebuchadnezzar completely, He showed mercy. In the end, the king realizes it is God who really has all the power.

I am thankful for God's mercy to me. It seems like I mess up a lot, but when I go to God, telling Him how I have made a mess of things, He shows such sweet mercy, picks me back up, dusts me off, and sets me on the right path again. I am so thankful He is always there, willing to forgive.

Starbucks Delicious-ness

2011-05-20T19:31:00.000-04:00

I have a new Starbucks love. I have completely fallen for their Birthday Cake Pops. Oh my goodness, they are so good!

I also tried their Red Velvet Whoopie Pie tonight. It was good, but not near as good as the Cake Pops.

I am actually saving these cake pops for Carl and I to have tomorrow...or maybe tonight when he gets home from work. :)

Un-Welcome Guest

2011-05-20T19:19:00.000-04:00

We have a totally UN-welcome guest in our yard. As I was leaving the house to go back to work after lunch on day this week, I saw this near our front porch.

Talk about getting the willies. I hate snakes just about as much as I hate spiders. I think my fear/hatred of spiders is at the top of the list, with snakes being a close second. I know it is probably harmless, but I still don't like it. Fortunately, I haven't seen it anymore. Maybe it went off into the neighbor's yard. (Crossing my fingers!) Or maybe the thing can hide very, very well. We are having some company this weekend, so I hope the snake does not make an appearance.

Trying to Play "Catch-Up"

2011-05-20T19:10:00.000-04:00

I hope all you mothers had a very happy Mother's Day. I put together these flowers for the Junior Church kids to give to their mothers.

I think they liked it, and the moms liked it too.

We are doing an airplane theme in Junior Church for May and June. I got the idea from www.truthquest.net. It is the Flight School VBS, I am just using it as a Junior Church theme. I am stretching out some of the lessons over a couple of Sundays, instead of just one lesson per Sunday. The kids are enjoying it. Here is a picture of the bulletin board.

I also started a new discipline incentive in Junior Church. Every Sunday, the kids can pick one of these

out of a bucket to hold onto during the service. If someone misbehaves, he or she gets two warnings. The third time the child misbehaves, the token is taken away, and they do not get any candy at the end of the service. If they still have the token at the end of the service, they get candy and get to take to token home. The kids love it...they like picking out their own special token. I have done this for almost 2 months and have only had 1 child lose their token. I have to get more of these tokens soon. I have looked at JoAnn's, Hobby Lobby, and a local Dollar Tree, but I haven't been able to find them. Any other suggestions? I don't know where the ones I have were purchased because I didn't buy them.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T08:00:00.001-04:00

I want to wish a Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there. I am so very thankful for my Mom. I don't know what I would do without her. I am grateful for her Christian example, her compassion, her concern for others, and her love for God. Mom means a lot to me, and I love her very much.

I am also thankful for my Grandmas. Grandma Miller is another Christian example to me. I know that she spends a lot of time in prayer for her children and grandchildren. I haven't spent much time with my Grandma Peña, but I do know that she loves her children and grandchildren. I have only seen her in person a few times, but I know she loves me.

I am also thankful for my Mothers-in-Law, and Carl's Grandmas. They welcomed me into the family with open arms, I appreciate that very much.

Happy Mother's Day!

Is this May or January?

2011-05-04T23:35:00.000-04:00

This is the 4th (almost the 5th) of May, isn't it? It certainly does not feel like it out there. I am freezing! I am in sweats and covered with a blanket, and I am still cold. Plus, I have a cold like I typically get in the Winter, not the end of Spring. You know the kind, raspy voice, stuffy nose, sore throat, etc.

I will try not to complain too much, though. If being cold, and having a cold are all that is bugging me, I am blessed beyond measure. There are so many others out there facing much worse. Lord, help me to be thankful for what I have, and to pray for those in need, an be willing to help them in any way I can.

Test post with photo

2011-05-02T17:20:00.001-04:00

Another test with a photo.

This is a photo of the 1611 KJV Bible that was on display at IHC last week.
Pretty cool to see.

Test Post

2011-05-02T17:01:00.001-04:00

I downloaded a new blogging app for my phone. I am just making sure it works. Hey, everyone!

Happy Easter from the Froelichs

2011-04-24T21:19:00.000-04:00

He's Alive!

2011-04-24T07:00:00.002-04:00

Praise the Lord! He's Alive!!!

Happy Easter!

I actually like the GVB (David Phelps) version better, but I already posted a video by David Phelps earlier this week. We saw the above version live at National Quartet Convention last September.

Then Came The Morning

2011-04-23T09:00:00.000-04:00

Another Easter favorite...

In Christ Alone

2011-04-22T21:52:00.000-04:00

I love this song!

Read these lyrics, and really let them sink in.

In Christ Alone

In Christ alone my hope is found;
He is my light, my strength, my song;
This cornerstone, this solid ground,
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My comforter, my all in all—
Here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone, Who took on flesh,
Fullness of God in helpless babe!
This gift of love and righteousness,
Scorned by the ones He came to save.
Till on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied;
For ev'ry sin on Him was laid—
Here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground His body lay,
Light of the world by darkness slain;
Then bursting forth in glorious day,
Up from the grave He rose again!
And as He stands in victory,
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me;
For I am His and He is mine—
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.

No guilt in life, no fear in death—
This is the pow'r of Christ in me;
From life's first cry to final breath,
Jesus commands my destiny.
No pow'r of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home—
Here in the pow'r of Christ I'll stand.

"In Christ Alone"
Words and Music by Keith Getty & Stuart Townend
Copyright © 2001 Kingsway Thankyou Music

Another Easter Video

2011-04-21T13:47:00.000-04:00

I've Just Seen Jesus

Larnelle Harris and Sandi Patty

Love this song! Two powerful voices singing a very powerful song.

Easter Videos

2011-04-19T20:51:00.000-04:00

I wanted to post some music videos of songs that I love to hear during the Easter season. This one is one of my favorite songs by David Phelps. It may not have the "Southern Gospel" sound to it, but I love the message.

I heard this song for the first time at the first Gaither Homecoming concert I attended. I loved it then, and still love it today. I hope you enjoy it.

Thursday Thoughts

2011-04-14T23:22:00.000-04:00

Just some random thoughts for the evening.

* I am so proud of myself. I folded some fitted sheets tonight and they didn't look like a disaster. They actually looked good...not as good as when you bring them home from the store, but a lot better than I usually fold them. I hate folding sheets, especially the fitted sheets. Anyone have a tips on folding them nicely?

* I got my eyebrows threaded tonight after work. It has been a while since I have had them done. They look so much better now. They were getting a little (or a lot) out of control.

* I have a strange obsession with my feet. I can't stand for anything to be touching my feet. I love pedicures...in fact one sounds heavenly right now, but I can't stand for some one's feet to be touching mine. I am always telling Carl "Don't touch my feet!" Anyone else have a weird thing like that going on?

* I noticed today that some of my lilies from last year are starting to come up. No blooms yet, obviously, but I am seeing some green stems coming up though the grass. Also, there is a lot of new growth on my rose bush.

* I made a goal/rule for myself this week. Laptop does not turn on until after 8pm. Before, the computer would be turned on as soon as I got home from work. I would then be distracted by Facebook, blogs, YouTube, news sites the rest of the night. I wouldn't get much else done. Now, I can devote more time to my personal devotions, get more things done around the house, exercise, catch up on my reading, and maybe even get some crafting done by not being on the computer ALL the time. I am on the computer almost all day at work, and then coming home to a computer was getting to be too much. Monday and Tuesday, I didn't have a headache at night. (I had a doozy of one Wednesday, but I think that was from lack of caffeine/weird eating schedule.) I haven't had much of a headache today either. I think this new rule will really help me.

* The Indiana Pacers start the first round of the playoffs this weekend. It has been a l-o-n-g time since the team has been in the playoffs. I hope they do well.

Enough thinking for one evening. Later, y'all!

Go Ask

2011-04-12T14:01:00.000-04:00

Mom heard this song on the Moody Radio this past Sunday and really liked it. It is one of my favorites. I could listen to it over and over, and not get tired of it.

"I don't pretend to be so wise, I only know He touched my eyes. And nothing else will ever be the same."

Thoughts of Spring

2011-04-05T20:06:00.000-04:00

I saw this maxi dress on the Kohls website. I think it would be really cute with a sweater or shrug. It is on sale right now, but I may wait until it is on sale and I have a additional coupon to use.

I bought these flowers at Target tonight. I liked how they looked very "springy." Plus, I noticed after I bought the bouquet there is some eucalyptus in it. Supposedly, eucalyptus is stress relieving. (Maybe I should buy a bouquet for my office.)

New Purchases

2011-04-03T22:27:00.000-04:00

Saturday was a more laid-back Saturday than the past Saturdays have been. It always seem like we have so much to do on Saturday, we are constantly on the run. I was glad for a lazy Saturday. All we had planned was buying groceries and decorating the Junior Church room. I had also wanted to go to Cato's to find a new skirt or two. I did find a jean skirt and a gray casual skirt that would still be business appropriate for work. Cato had the cutest suit on display that would have been perfect for Easter, but I didn't see the items on the rack. It was a cute aqua color. I may have to go back and check on it again.

We also found the time to go to Family Christian Store, where I purchased this:

David Phelps is one of my favorite tenors, and I was really looking forward to getting this. I can't wait to watch it.

Carl also was a good sport, and we went to the mall. We only went in to two stores, New York and Co, and Hallmark. NY & Co was having a 50% off everything sale. I had noticed a skirt online and wanted to check it out in person. I didn't like it that much in person, plus they didn't have my size. I did find this cute scarf though. I could wear this with almost any color blouse and a white skirt this summer.

On the way home, we picked up some dinner at McAlister's. We had dinner and watched the Butler/VCU game on March Madness on Demand on the Internet. I also had downloaded the MMOD app for my iPhone, so we were able to watch the games when away from home. It was pretty cool. It was pretty cool that Butler won. I will be cheering for them in the Final game.

Mark Lowry Concert

2011-04-03T22:05:00.000-04:00

On March 26th, Carl and I went to hear Mark Lowry in concert in Indy. It was our first Mark Lowry solo concert, and we really enjoyed it. Mark has Stan Whitmire with him playing the piano for him. I was impressed with Stan's playing. He is really good. Mark was funny as always, and sang several songs that blessed us. It was a really great evening.

Funny story, though. Butler was playing their game against Florida during the first part of the concert, when a group called the 3rd Row Boys were singing. (They were good, by the way.) There was a short break before Mark Lowry came on. There were only a few minutes left in the game as the intermission ended. I was keeping track of the game on my phone (as were several others, I could tell). You could see/hear different people in the crowd whisper to each other as Butler won the game. When Mark finished his first song, people were cheering for Butler. hahaha.

Here are some pictures from the night.

Me with Stan Whitmire during intermission

Mark belting it out.

Mark telling a story.

Best of David Phelps

2011-03-24T22:58:00.000-04:00

This DVD was just released this week. I am really looking forward to getting it soon...maybe even this weekend.

If you go to www.gaither.comyou can watch a shortened version of this. We watched a little bit of it this afternoon at lunch. It is really good.

Shopping anyone?

2011-03-17T23:38:00.000-04:00

I get to go shopping this weekend. I have $20 Kohl's cash, plus a 15% off coupon, a $10 coupon for JC Penney, a coupon for a free trial size bottle at Bath and Body Works, and a 40% off coupon for Christopher and Banks. I am super excited! Carl is not so thrilled...lol!

These are AMAZING!

2011-03-16T23:52:00.000-04:00

Delicious!

New Bedding

2011-03-13T22:34:00.000-04:00

(Photo credit: Kohls.com)

This is our new bedding for our bedroom. We bought the comforter set yesterday at Kohl's. I plan on buying a small pillow or two and the sheet set down the road. Kohl's also has the matching valance and curtains, but I am not sure if I want them.

New wall art

2011-03-10T22:44:00.000-05:00

I ordered this through At Home America. I went to a party hosted by a friend from church. This is my favorite Bible verse. It is a pretty good size, but is very lightweight. It is going to go up in our bedroom...soon, I hope.

Some cute hair styles

2011-03-10T22:42:00.000-05:00

These are not my own videos. I found them on YouTube.
Funnel Cake Updo:

Romantic Messy Bun:

This girl has some good videos. Most are about makeup, so they don't always apply, but she has some hair tutorials every now and then.

Knot Bun:

This woman has some good hair tutorials on YouTube. I actually have been doing a variation of this bun the past couple of Sundays for church. My cousin Jenn showed me how she does a knot bun, which is very close to this one. I took a picture with my iPhone.

I do the knot like in the video, but since I really don't have as much hair as that woman, I make a few roll curls and pin around the bun itself.

What hairstyles/buns have you found to be cute and easy? Let me know.

Thursday Thoughts

2011-03-10T22:08:00.000-05:00

Random thoughts for the evening:

* I am so tired of the cold weather. It was so cold today. Is it ever going to be Spring?!

* Speaking of the weather, the cold and rainy weather has given me a headache. Sunshine, come back!

* Finally purchased Microsoft Office for my laptop. I look forward to using it to make bulletins and stuff for Junior Church.

* I started a new reward system in Junior Church this past Sunday. The children are earning tickets to use at the end of the month to get prizes. They all behaved pretty well on Sunday..let's see if it continues. I got the idea from Bus Convention.

* I am so ready for the weekend.

* I LOVE my iPhone! Just sayin'...

* We have been reading the book of Esther in our devotions before bed. I will have to say the story of Esther is one of my favorites. Love the excitement and suspense. Who says the Bible is not exciting?

That's all the randomness I have for now.

I've Got Joy

2011-03-03T13:42:00.000-05:00

Woke up with this song on my mind. Thank God for Joy.

God IS Enough!

2011-03-02T21:52:00.000-05:00

My God is enough, He proves it o'er and o'er;
He's never known to fail, His power still prevails.
Down through the test of time, God's people always find;
Whatever life may bring, God is enough!
(Words and music by Penny Ford)

I love this chorus! We sang it tonight in church. I am so glad that whatever life throws at us, God is (more than) enough!

2011-02-28T22:05:00.000-05:00

I found these tonight at Walgreens. What a "pick-me-up!" Just what I needed. :)