Get Organized by Nancy Williams

I am highlighting the points that really hit me! Maybe you too can pick up some pointers here.

Get Organized
Remove Life's Clutter
By Nancy Williams, Licensed Counselor and Life Coach

CBN.com – Before we barely finished our eggnog, the festive lights began to dim as the season of goodwill and cheer faded, bringing 2009 to a close. With a collective sigh, we are now packing away memories as we bid farewell to the past year and usher in 2010. It’s now time to carefully box up those treasured decorations to be enjoyed during Christmases to come and discard the worn wrappings, burned candles, and broken ornaments.

Organizing experts advise us to clear out the clutter in our closets to make room for those treasures that will remain, and then let go of those things that are not of value. While some heed their advice, others set it all aside with an “I’ll take care of it later” attitude. After all, we have a busy year ahead and want to get going.

Determined to make it our best year yet, we blend our enthusiasm with hope as we set goals. Then, armed with ‘to do’ lists, off we go. We buy memberships to fitness centers, purchase the latest diet books and personal organizers, and vow to be more diligent in our time of worship. Instead of grabbing whatever we find in the fridge, we turn off the television and gather around the dining table for a healthy dinner and family connection. We develop a budget to get our “financial house” in order, and we read about living a “balanced life.” We’re bound for success, or so we assume.

Wonderful intentions, yet we often seem to have difficulty turning them into positive successes. While the reasons for our achievement struggles may vary, organizing experts, life coaches, and counselors identify a problem area that hinders many of us from reaching our goals: CLUTTER – unnecessary, unorganized, sometimes even unwanted elements that are roadblocks to success.

We have too much around us, physically, emotionally, and perhaps even spiritually; and what we have that we do need is often not organized in a way that helps our lives function well. We’re trying to pile one thing on top of another without thought to what we actually need for this season of our lives. We seem to have a hard time letting go, so we buy more storage containers and bigger homes. We pack our schedules tighter with less and less room to relax. “Yes” seems to flow from our lips so much easier than “no.” We hold onto emotions that drain us and hinder our growth. No wonder so many of us feel overwhelmed, frustrated, stressed, disorganized, and weighed down.

Yet talk to people who are de-cluttering their lives and becoming more organized and you’ll hear them speak about reclaiming their time and space – even their lives. They seem fit physically, emotionally, and spiritually. They are more selective about what they embrace and what they choose to set aside, and they speak about more balance in their lives as they accomplish their goals.

The life lesson is clear: taking time to clear out and clean out will indeed free us up to a more successful approach to the new year.

As we focus on organizing our schedules, our spaces, and our keepsakes, we must also make certain our minds and hearts are ready to embrace the experiences ahead. What memories do we want to savor from the past year and carefully tuck away in the closets of our hearts to be opened and enjoyed in days to come? What recollections to cherish, traditions to pass on, family history to share? Treasures, how will we preserve them?
Taking our personal inventory may also identify emotional clutter we need to clear away: disappointments, hurts, unmet goals, broken promises, and unfulfilled dreams. If left unattended, they take up space in our minds and hearts where peace and joy want to reside. It’s time to repair what needs to be repaired and set aside what needs to be set aside, to make ready for the fresh start that is waiting as the new year unfolds.

Are there relationships to be mended, forgiveness to be offered or accepted? If there are hurts lingering in your heart, perhaps this is the time to ask the Lord to help you let those go and fill that broken place with His healing mercy and grace.

So often we come to the close of the year disappointed that we did not accomplish certain goals. Now is the time to set those unmet objectives aside and ask God to give you wisdom and to guide your mind and heart as you look ahead, to align your vision and your steps with His perfect plan for your life.

As we continue bringing closure to yesterday, it is important to reflect back on the life lessons God has taught us that we need to carry forward. Some experiences were cause for celebration. Others we’ve been grateful to survive. Through them all, He has taught us how to trust Him in all circumstances, to listen to His voice and follow His commandments, to care for ourselves and minister to others in His name. He has stretched us, pruned us, and molded us as we’ve yielded to Him, revealing His mercy, His power, His goodness, and His unfailing love. Through yesterday’s experiences, we can find truths to build on in the days to come. Nothing wasted, but rather wisdom to invest in the future.

As the glass ball in Times Square announced the beginning of the new year, our minds swirled with hopes and dreams, questions and curiosities. What will 2010 bring for us? We have suspicions, yet with all our plans and good intentions, we really don’t know what the future holds.
What we do know is this: God has a plan for our lives. He does know what lies ahead and has promised that if we draw close to Him, He’ll equip us with all we need to move through the days to come and He’ll walk alongside us on our journey. The challenge is ours to remove the obstacles that may hinder our walk as we prepare our minds and hearts to embrace all He has in store.
Blessings to you in this new year!

Yeah, the random dozen thing...

1. Do you find it gross to share drinks with family? Friends?

I don't like to share my drink! Sometimes I will let Jerry have a sip of my water, because after all he is my husband. Other than that - no, it is gross!

2. What have you learned this year? (You didn't see a question of that weight coming, did you? At least not for #2.)

I have to agree with Linda - many CHANGES!!! With changes learning is always a given. One thing for sure that I have learned that with a "new boss" comes "new and different work loads". I have to ADJUST accordingly. I for one like change so I say, "bring it on" - really changes happen every day! Every day is a new day!

3. When do you dismantle the Christmas decorations?

This year is a little different - since we didn't put up a TREE. We usually always take it down New Year's Day or New Year's Eve.

4. Something you wish to accomplish before the end of 2009 is:

Go over my journals and see how "my year went" and what I remember. I get to see the "answered prayers" - on my prayer journals too. I like to "reflect back" not to punish myself of what I didn't get done - but what I did do and lessons learned.

5. How do you feel about winter (after Christmas)?

I feel that I have to "bite" the bullet of being cold until the Spring Thaw. I am not totally "fond" of it, but I know "this too shall pass". Then I really appreciate seeing the green come out!

6. Have you participated in after-Christmas sales?

I have in the past - this year no, because I really haven't had a chance to get out and shop. I would like to get out there though because I have a few more gifts that I want to buy - for my cousins in North Carolina. I told them "they would be late".

7. Do you have plans for New Year's Eve?

We have been invited out go to a "church" function thing from another couple from another church, we haven't decided yet if we are going. We usually stay home and go to bed way before midnight - it is not such a big deal anymore.

8. Is there anything special awaiting you in January?

I have a few things that awaits me in January - one thing is not fun - the year end closing of the books at work. BUT I do have the book club that meets in Jan. and another Harbor date - this time at Willie's.

9. If your life this year was a movie, what category or genre would it be? (Romance, Comedy, Drama, Thriller, Suspense, Farcical, etc.)

I would say a "drama comedy" - is there such a thing? If not, a drama for all the changes at work. The comedy side - well I have had some wonderful laughs with my Sisters-in-Christ!

10. How much time per day do you spend blogging? Please do not lie. I will know.

I have never timed myself. I really think it doesn't matter because when I do blog I enJOY myself and I like spending the time reading other's blogs.

11. Who runs your household?

God runs our household. My husband and I try to live a godly life so we go to HIM for all the decisions - praying together - after all it all belongs to HIM. We budget for we can be good stewards of His money. We buy groceries together for I will eat better - Jerry is the "healthier one" and helps me not to buy too much junk - that way we are taking care of HIS temples. Jerry fixes things, I clean up afterwards - a team, hand in hand. BUT if you really read the WORD - MOST of the responsibility falls on Jerry's shoulder in the long run. We can discuss things but when it comes down to it, Jerry has to make the final decision for important matters...and sometimes for the petty matters.

12. Share one hope/dream for 2010.

My hope is to reach out more to others - be a better "witness" and be a better "role model" for Jesus! Not just talk the talk, but walk the walk!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Before and After of my office at home...

Before: I can't believe that I let my office get this cluttered. All the hustle and bustle of Christmas though, I am sure it was a big part of the reason why.After: I think I "have too much stuff" - it is so hard to get rid --much better! I won't tell you where "I hid the stuff".

Here is beside my computer - what a mess! After, still cluttered but better. those boxes hold my calendars and old journals. Can you see those folders underneath the radio - they are folders that contain all the notes that I take from books that I read. I have truly enJOYED doing this. Time to time I bring them out and read them - I find by taking notes on things I remember them better. You wouldn't believe all the notes that I have wrote on the Bible!

I had a lot of stuff on the floor - over flow I should say.

This is my devotional area. I really like this space - here is where I read HIS WORD, pray, and write in my journal every morning. Jerry fixed this space for me by adding the countertop when we first moved in - little did he know he was making my little "sanctuary".

Okay enough of that. I mainly put this on here to remind myself that a cleaner area is much better to be able to focus on what I need to be focusing on - which is God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Of course this room is also where I stay in contact with my friends with my computer.

Now - what else can I conquer for today - oh yes, the kitchen...

Christmas Eve and Christmas....

CHRISTMAS EVE: (We had a real nice Christmas Eve Service at VV. Emily, Caleb, and Jerry sang).

Here is Jerry singing - he did such a wonderful job, I was so proud of him. We both knew though that the Holy Spirit was singing through him. "He Was Still Her Little Child". Here you can see he was looking up - knowing he was to sing to Our LORD and KING. Our Cross and Nativity Scene - it is very pretty, especially with the cross shinning over it.

Here at the Pettus' boys, I rarely see them at church, so I had to take their picture.

Here is Jerry getting ready to go on "stage" and smiling at the one that just set down, I can't remember who that was. We had some fantastic readers, reading the Scriptures of "our Prince" being born. Caleb was sitting next to him.

CHRISTMAS:

Our "Christmas with the folks was postponed because of the weather. So it was just Jerry and I. We had invited a few people but with the last minute planning, we really couldn't "expect" them to come. Jerry fixed a fantastic meal. We had smoked turkey, cranberry/apple sauce, onions/potatoes/carrots grilled, sweet potato, a bun from HyVee, and Jerry's wonderful apple crisp for dessert. Oh yes, we had plenty to eat! Plenty of leftovers was the next week too.

I got the house cleaned up - just thinking of company inspires me... ha ha.

The rest of the day, we just relaxed....what a beautiful day it was! Of course we really know that JESUS' BIRTH WAS WHAT IT REALLY WAS ABOUT!

I am looking forward to reading your "blogs" to tell me how your Christmas was!

Working 4 Iowa - Union Style...

Here is my boss, the Business Manager on the left, Mike. Our organizer Jerimie on the right. Of course I am the "cute one in the middle" ha ha. We had so much fun yesterday.


Here I am with Mark - he was a roofer helping me with cookies and drinks - that was really fun! I yelled at the kids and parents - "Get over here and get some cookies!" They said they liked my "EXCITEMENT". Mark is a Christian!

Look at all the gifts that the unions purchased for this event. They gave over 200 gifts to people that were flooded out and ones that were connected with the Jane Boyd Center.

Here you can see what Working 4 Iowa is all about....actually, they do a lot more than giving out gifts - I am sure you will be seeing much more of things that they will be doing to help the community in the future!

I think it was an AWESOME FULFILLING DAY!!! Of course it would have been better if they only knew that it was God giving the gifts instead of "them". I will just keep praying for my union brothers and sisters....

I was able to put KNWS radio station on and let the Christian Songs come through!

PRAISE THE LORD

JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON!!!

My Wonderful Weekend...

Wow did I have a great weekend!

Saturday:

• Helped with the "bake sale" for Sunday, so much fun. Julie W. and I hooked up and made a good team. Deb and Linda did a wonderful job of organizing and putting it together. All of us elves jumped in, bagged and tagged.
• Jerry and I went shopping - yes, Jerry went with me. So glad he did because we bought things for me - like a pair of walking shoes and a new purse. We did get something for his mother and a few things for my friends.
• Then since we were both tired from shopping, we went over to Secret Nails and had a pedicure - Jerry loved it. Of course I did too (I also had a manicure). Did you know they have message chairs there to sit in while you are having this done? I tell you it was GREAT! We both felt so relaxed and good.
• Then we went over to Applebees for dinner. Jerry got the fajitas and really liked them, I got me a bacon cheeseburger - so good!
• Then got home and watched a Hallmark movie "The Three Gifts for Christmas" , I think that is what it was called. One of the little boys looked like Jaimie!

Anyway that was such a good Saturday.

Sunday:

• We didn't have Power Hour class because we were all so busy and had a late start, so we decided to "visit" and get caught up with each other. So much fun to do that.
• The service was good - Ben is such a good preacher.
• Then the BAKE Sale, I really had a blast being an elf! We all did. Boy did we sell baked goods, candy, etc. You should have seen what I bought -- oh my! We ended up raising almost $600 for the building fun. Everyone liked how it was set up - once again, thanks Deb and Linda.
• Then at home all that "sugar high" let me down, so Jerry and I took a nap. So did Sam.
• Then my son came over with his girlfriend. We had a nice visit. I hadn't seen him in so long. I like his girlfriend. They didn't stay long, we are hoping they will come again but to stay longer and have dinner. (While Andy was there, Jerry was out shoveling snow - bless his heart).
• Then Jerry went to the Gathering...I stayed home, I was still tired. I was able to watch two more movies. One was silly and the other was a romantic comedy with some serious parts. I liked that one. (After the Gathering Jerry and the others practiced for Christmas Eve, I bet that service will be GREAT!)
• While I was watching the movies on the couch, Sam was curled up beside me. I do so enJOY moments like these.

THAT WAS MY GOOD WEEKEND. Probably not as exciting as some, but trust me on this, it was one I shall never forget. :)

Reality Check...

Today I got a call from a retiree's wife telling me that one of our Union Brothers died this morning. He was 84 but has been suffering from cancer for quite some time. I was able to go to the hospital last month and see him. He was pretty groggy but he recognized me. We had a small chit chat, and then right before I left I asked him if I could pray for him silently. I told him silently because before he always told me he doesn't believe in prayers. Now, I am sitting here praying for his family left behind. I don't know where John is right now...I can only hope he is in heaven and that God answered my prayers and others that I had praying for him. I don't know what happened in his "last hour".

I was telling the other ladies in this building about John and I mentioned that "I hope he is in heaven" - and one said, "Of course he is, God takes everyone there." Another said, "I don't believe in heaven or hell, you just go to sleep". I automatically disagreed with them both and told them why but both were pretty certain they were right. So, I left from there praying for their salvation.

How many other people believe that "good people go to heaven" 0r there is no heaven or hell? How do we make sure they know that is satan's lies? I try to use the "Voice of the Master" on them and tell them the truth when I have time, the other times like today, I just voiced my heart.

Well, that was my reality check for today. As I close here, I will be praying for my son Andy who doesn't know God YET!!!

Barb's note on Seven beliefs...mainly for myself!

Seven Beliefs that Lead to Holiday Weight Gain
Dec/Jan 2010
Nutrition
Women's Interest
By Barb Raveling
It is commonly reported that the average American gains five to seven pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas. It’s easy to see how this can happen. Great food, parties, and stress all contribute to the holiday weight gain. Throw in a few more months of winter weather and the annual flu season, and we’re often in sorry shape by the time spring rolls around.

It’s easy to think that winter weight gain is inevitable, but it’s not. What I’ve discovered in recent years is that it’s not the holidays and the seasons that make us gain weight—it’s what we believe about the holidays and the seasons.

The idea that beliefs influence behavior is actually a biblical concept. In the Bible we are encouraged, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” It doesn’t say, to be transformed by forcing yourself to do something you don’t want to do. Although there are certainly times in your life when you’ll need to do just that, it’s important not to miss the life-changing principle presented in this Bible passage. Changing the way you think will change the way you act. Renewing your mind will transform your behavior.

This concept applies to all areas of life, including the area of health. This hit home for me personally when I began to look at my own beliefs about food and exercise. What I realized was that my annual winter weight gain was caused in large part by the things I believed about food and exercise. As I worked on changing my beliefs, my desires and habits began to change, and I no longer gained weight every winter.

Perhaps you struggle with some of the same behaviors I did. See if you recognize yourself in the following list. If you do, take the time to renew your mind—because it’s the truth that will transform your behavior.

1 - IT’S A HOLIDAY. IT’S OKAY TO EAT AS MUCH AS I WANT.
Truth: When you eat as much as you want you gain weight and feel uncomfortable. The truth is that your life will be better if you practice moderation—even on holidays. If you eat slowly and savor each bite, you’ll actually enjoy the experience more than if you eat quickly and stuff yourself.
Tip: The night before the holiday, make a list of the advantages and disadvantages of eating as much as you feel like eating. This will help you realize that your life will be better if you eat a reasonable amount.


2 - THIS HOLIDAY SEASON I’M BUSY. I DON’T HAVE TIME FOR EXERCISE.
Truth: If you take the time to exercise, you’ll feel more energetic which will help you get more done.
Tip: Plan some walks during the holidays with friends and family members. You’ll enjoy the visit and get your exercise in at the same time.

3 - THIS HOLIDAY HAS ME STRESSED. A TREAT WILL HELP ME RELAX.
Truth: Although you might relax while you’re eating the treat, in the long run too many treats will add to your stress level. A little exercise or some time spent with God would be a much healthier and more effective way to relax.
Tip: Make time with God a priority during the holiday season. He’ll help you to focus on the true meaning of each holiday, and He’ll give you the peace you seek.

4 - IT IS TIME TO PARTY! I DON’T WANT TO BE THE ONLY ONE NOT EATING.
Truth: It’s dangerous to base your eating decisions on what others are eating. After all, what if someone at the party had six pieces of pie—does that mean you should have six pieces of pie? Your life will be better if you eat what’s good for you, not what everyone else is eating.
Tip: Before the party, try this exercise. List the ways you’ll suffer if you eat a lot at the party, and then list the ways you’ll suffer if you eat a healthy amount at the party. Which is the better choice?


5 - IT IS FLU SEASON – I’M WORN OUT AND TIRED. A SNACK WILL HELP.
Truth: An unhealthy snack might energize you for a short time, but in the long run, unhealthy eating habits will make you feel worn out and tired. The best way to find energy is to exercise and eat well on a regular basis.
Tip: If you’re tired, try doing five minutes of calisthenics or dance to a song or two on the stereo. Even a little bit of exercise can energize you. If you have time for a short nap, that will also help.

6 - IT’S WINTER AND I’M FEELING LAZY. FOOD WILL MOTIVATE ME TO GET SOMETHING DONE.
Truth: Having extra food probably won’t motivate you—it will just make you want more. You’ll feel better in the long run if you jump in and get something accomplished on your list.
Tip: Break big jobs into smaller jobs. Then forget about the big job and focus on the smaller job. This will make the job less intimidating, and you’ll be less likely to procrastinate.


7 - I’M LONELY THIS HOLIDAY. SOMETHING TO EAT WILL CHEER ME.
Truth: A treat will only cheer you up for a short time. After the treat, you’ll still feel lonely plus you’ll probably regret eating the treat.
Tip: If you’re alone for a holiday, find other people who are alone and reach out to them. They’d probably love an invitation to dinner, and you’ll experience the satisfaction of reaching out in love to others—and who knows—maybe you’ll make a new friend.


A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT

The next time you find yourself eating too much, ask yourself, “What am I thinking that’s making me want to eat when I’m not hungry?” When you find yourself neglecting your exercise, ask yourself, “What am I thinking that’s making me not want to exercise?” Recognizing the beliefs that fuel your unhealthy desires and actions is the first step in changing your behavior.

The second step is taking the time to renew your mind—replacing the old thoughts with the new thoughts. Renewing your mind on a regular basis will lead to a transformation in your behavior—and even help you avoid that winter weight gain this year.
Barb Raveling is the author of Freedom from Emotional Eating. She writes about emotional eating on her FREEDOM FROM EMOTIONAL EATING blog.

Holiday Eating - then check her blog...

I hope this isn't illegal doing this, but I came across this on the "Faith and Fitness Magazine" that I have e-mailed to me. I highlighted in blue what hit me the hardest.

Barb Raveling is the author of Freedom from Emotional Eating. She writes about emotional eating on her FREEDOM FROM EMOTIONAL EATING blog.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Seven Beliefs that Lead to Holiday Weight Gain
Read at:www.faithandfitness.net/node/278
Posted by Barb at 10:17 PM 1 comments
Labels: holidays
Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Christmas
Christmas isn’t an easy season for emotional eaters. In a month where we’re surrounded by good things to eat, we’re also surrounded by opportunities for negative emotions that make us want to eat.

The funny thing is that we’ve taken a holiday designed to celebrate the birth of Jesus, who came to bring us peace, and turned it into probably the least peaceful time of the year. The stress of all the things on our to-do lists would send us to the refrigerator even if the Christmas cookies didn't! So what do we do? Resign ourselves to the inevitable Christmas weight gain? Get rid of the Christmas cookies? Or use the season as an opportunity to change our focus and see life, ourselves, our to-do list, and even Christmas through God’s eyes?

This Christmas my goal is to keep my focus on God throughout the Christmas season and to avoid getting caught up in the negative emotions that seem to come with the season. Here are a few of the ideas I had to help me reach that goal.

1. Practice the presence of God as much as possible.I think I mentioned before that I’ve been reading the book The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence, a man who lived in the 1600’s. Here’s an excerpt from his book:

I make it my business only to persevere in His holy presence, wherein I keep myself by a simple attention, and a general fond regard to God, which I may call an actual presence of God; or, to speak better, an habitual, silent, and secret conversation of the soul with God, which often causes me joys and raptures inwardly, and sometimes also outwardly, so great that I am forced to use means to moderate them and prevent their appearance to others.

Brother Lawrence said that developing this habit of always being aware of God’s presence no matter what he was doing did more for his relationship with God than anything he’d ever done before. I’ve found that it’s a hard habit to develop, but when it works, it’s delightful. It’s like you’re having a side conversation with God while you’re doing other things. Or like He’s right there with you fellowshipping with you while you do those other things. I’ve also found that it makes things you don’t usually enjoy doing almost enjoyable because you’re doing them with the One you love.

2. Deal with the emotions that come up when they come up.When I find myself craving Christmas cookies, I'll ask myself, Is it the cookies, or is it my emotions? If you have a tendency to eat to procrastinate like I do, you’ll probably find yourself wanting to eat at Christmas. Same with eating for stress. Or relationship problems—often there are more of those at Christmas. What we need to do when we experience those emotion-induced cravings is go to God and work through the emotions.

3. Stick to my eating boundaries faithfully. This is more important than ever at Christmas. It's helpful to get in the mindset of not even one bite outside of the boundaries - because one bite usually leads to lots of bites!

4. Prepare myself for parties and other tempting eating events by renewing my mind before I go. I have to tell you that I don't actually do this one because it's not an area of temptation for me anymore, but I thought I'd write about it in case you might like to try it. I think it would have helped me back in the old days. Here's the idea - before you go to the party, write down a list of things you might tell yourself that would make you want to overeat at the party. Recognize the lies and replace them with truth. You might also make a list of the advantages of eating whatever you want at the party and the disadvantages. This will help you recognize the truth that it really is better not to eat too much.

5. Don’t be a perfectionist or a procrastinator when it comes to holiday jobs. I probably need to give myself this lecture every day. Perfectionism and procrastination lead to stress. Things don’t have to be perfect. Things don’t have to be done all at once. Pace your holiday jobs throughout the month—if you do one thing a day, it will be more manageable. Here’s an example. Today, I’m going to buy my Christmas cards and address the envelopes. That’s a job I don’t mind doing—but if I were to tell myself I have to send a bunch of cards today, I probably wouldn’t even get around to buying the cards because the whole process would seem too intimidating. (Yes, I know, I’m a bit on the pathetic side.) These last three things on the list might seem like they have more to do with practical issues rather than walking with God, but the truth is that every part of our lives affects our relationship with God. When I obsess over food, it affects my relationship with God. When I demand the easy life or the perfect life, it affects my relationship with God. When I get too busy, it affects my relationship with God. That's why I really want to develop this habit of practicing the presence of God - because I can't focus on Him and demand those other things all at the same time. Living in His presence helps me live for Him. Which is exactly what I want to do this Christmas season.
Posted by Barb

A Visit at the Khrose's

BARNAPUSS - HE IS SO CUTE!!! He was rolling all around on their computer table - actually walked on Dale's computer first. Then when he was rolling over he reached out and grabbed Jerry's head with his front claws! That made me laugh so hard - that he ran back into the basement! It was so funny though. His markings are just beautiful.

This is Cammy - she is the Momma cat of the two below. She is one BIG cat! She sure is pretty!

This is Riker I believe is how she spells his name. She is one of Cammy's sons. This one is a little shy around strangers but sure loves Dale and Marlys! He too is a BIG cat.

This is Cammy's other son - man I forgot his name...I hate that! He is so friendly and loving.

This is Trixie a really cute Corgi - her little legs just crack me up. She is so sweet!

Here is Sam their other Corgi - he gets jealous real quick when the cats came by us. He too is so cute and was rolling all around on the living room floor.

We had a real good time at the Khrose's - that is where we went for the Gathering. They are so hospitalble and we dearly love this couple! Of course we love their animals too.

Friends...

I am sitting here and "thinking" of my friends. You know how it is, you think of one then another pops in your mind, and then another. Well, I believe God really wants me to pray for my friends. I asked Him, do I just pray for the "bunch"? Do I pray each by name? Do I put them categories - you know like the ones that need healing?

Well, my answer came - I am to open up a new document page - insert a table and put down each of my friends name and pray for them individually! That is a great idea LORD. (He knows I type faster than I write and I can "save" it to check it from time to time to see if He has answered them -- in HIS timing - that is why I need to save it). Okay LORD, I'm on it! If anyone reading this needs a prayer - let me know - I will gladly add it to "my list". (no one will see the list except the LORD and I). I do care about my friends - I LOVE MY FRIENDS!!!

Daily Dozen - a day late...

1. Which physical trait do you now accept--maybe not love, but accept--and no longer feel extremely self-conscious about?
I have finally accepted my “gut” – I have worked so hard for so many years to have it go down (oh how I wanted a "flat stomach) – so I finally have decided it is okay to have the “Hooper Gut” – it runs in our family. But I still keep trying to “whittle” it away – it keeps me exercising.

2. This week Meredith Baxter Birney, best known as the mom on the favorite 80s sitcom "Family Ties" came out of the closet, which led me to formulate this question: Who do you think is/was the best TV mom?
None of the ones on today that is for sure. They make women look so too “sexy” and families constantly cutting each other down. I would have to say, "Leave it to Beaver’s Mom".
3. Do you speak any foreign languages? Are there any you'd like to learn?
No, not now - sort of wanted to learn French - I love how they "sound".

4. Who is your personal hero?
No heroes in my life – Jesus my Savior is what it is all about for me.

5. What is one holiday food that you find extremely difficult to resist over- indulging in?
FUDGE and Christmas Cookies!

6. Tell me about a Christmas decoration that has special meaning or sentimental value.
My cat ones – I have many that people have bought for me throughout the years. Also the “Real Kathy” made Jerry and I an ornament too – I love that one!

7. How do you feel about snow?
It is pretty at first but by the time winter is almost over, I am quite tired of it! Especially when it is “dirty”.

8. On average, how many hours of sleep do you get each night? Not that I'm jealous of any number over three or anything.
6-7 hours of sleep, but would like to have more.

9. Tell me about your first crush.
Celebrity crush...Moon Doggie of the Gidget Movies. Real life crush, Troy in High School – didn’t know his last name but I so liked just looking at him. Of course he didn’t know I excited.

10. You're stuck in a room for 2 hours with only a chalkboard and chalk. What will you write/draw?
Maybe I would try to write God a letter, erase it and have Him write me back.

11. Do you dress for the current temp or for the day's forecast?
The day’s forecast.

12. Favorite Christmas movie is?
It's A Wonderful Life!

Outside my window - Dec. 9th....

Jerry snow blowed, he shoveled, and he scraped before he could go into work at 10:00 a.m. I stayed inside and took this picture from our window. Notice how good he got the driveway - especially by the road - well the snow plow came after he left and left quite a mess. I went out and tried to shovel some of it - got about a half an hour in, decided that is enough for me. Jerry did say what little I got done made it easier for him, that made me feel good.

This is the house across from us. He has kids that helped him shovel as he snow blowed. He saw me trying to shovel and waved to me.

Her is our neighbor kitty corner from us - it looked like his daughter was out there too. He got his snow blower out.

This is his garage....look how much snow are on those cars!

What a day - our whole building closed here at work - first time ever the Laborers closed down. Like I said Jerry went in at 10:00 had no problem. I was able to clean my kitchen from top to bottom - it sure needed it. I also picked up and put up. Yes, I had time to take a nap! Sweet!!!

I got some Christmas cards out for the people I don't keep in contact with that much. I wasn't even going to do that - but the SNOW motivated me.

It is pretty outside - but like Jerry said it was the "worse" snow he has ever had to snow blow and shovel - I agree....

My "Charlie Brown" tree at work

OK it is not much but it sure makes some of the guys smile when they come in. They will say, "that is pitiful or how nice".

Now if I could just get my "hubby" motivated to go to the attic and get some decorations down for home! He said he might be able to this weekend. If not, at least I have these to look at. ha ha.

I have been seeing some very lovely decorations on other people's post and I am so glad they are posting them! Christmas will be here before we know it.

HOWEVER! The decorations are nice BUT we all know that Christmas is about Christ! I loved Jeanne's post - she tells us like it is on hers.

Random Dozen - I really like doing these...

1. Which Wizard of Oz character are you most like?
I would have to say "Dorothy" - because of my days in the military and once I got to places overseas, I always said I was so homesick - "there's no place like home, there's no place like home".

2. When you're deciding what you're going to wear each morning, which item do you select first? I pick out my "jeans" first - I always wear jeans to work - then I choose my top depending on the weather.

3. What kind of animal do you think the world could live without?
Possums - they are so "ugly" and I really don't know what they do. I always feel bad for them when I see them on the road being "road kill".

4. How many Christmas trees are in your home?
Right now I don't have ANY! I am trying to "motivate" Jerry to get some kind of decorations from up in the attic down. We didn't put up a tree last year - I didn't really miss it - until I see other people's trees! I still doubt if we will put up the tree but we have other stuff - like lighted wreaths....

5. Would you prefer to be emotionless if it meant you didn't have to feel a heartbreak?
NO WAY! I am an emotional basket case - and I am thankful that God gave us emotions - He never wanted robots and emotions sets us apart. We learn from heartbreaks like everything.

6. Do you ever experience holiday let-down or depression?
I admit I do get a little down because I miss my brothers in California - and then I start thinking of the "past". Then I read Scriptures that tell me not to "dwell in the past" and know that I am where I am supposed to be NOW! Then I count my blessings and "slowly but not always" I snap out of it and be grateful for where I am - which is with my husband, church family, and his family!

7. Do you like Michael Jackson's music?
No.

8. Why is it that we never judge people who have their teeth fixed for cosmetic reasons, but every other cosmetic procedure has a stigma?
I can honestly say I don't judge them because I had cosmetic surgery in the Army. Didn't God make "plastic surgeons"? I know sometimes it is about PRIDE and that is when it becomes wrong - but in my case - I was a "training device" so I actually helped a lot of "learning doctors" - I know that is justifying.

10. Shoes--practical or stylish?
PRACTICAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

11. What was the name of your first pet?
I can't remember - we always had pets. I can tell you this my favorite was always a cat! We always had one dog and one cat.

12. What percentage of your Christmas shopping is done?
Depends on how you look at it. Most of the "ones" I have to get yet want MONEY - so I guess I am 3/4's done.

PHILIPPIANS CHAPTER 4 - ONE OF MY FAVORITES!!

I am coloring my favorite words from this wonderful chapter and adding my comments!!! What a blessing it was for me to read this chapter this morning, so I just had to share. Philippians 4
1Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, (Stand firm in love) dear friends!

Exhortations

2I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord. 3Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. (So true, so true)

6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (keep my eyes on Jesus and meditate on the good) 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Thanks for Their Gifts

10I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances (With God's help, I am "working" on this). 12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

14Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 15Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; 16for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. 17Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. 18I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

20To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Final Greetings 21Greet all the saints in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send greetings. 22All the saints send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar's household.
23The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

Reading this Chapter this morning just gave me such a peace and "can do spirit". What a beautiful day this is! Of course everyday is right? Right! Even when we have to "embrace pain" - we can learn to be content!