Fastenau Facts

Wednesday Again....

2012-02-01T00:03:00.003-06:00

That's right it is Wednesday again, that is a good thing! That means it is time for Wednesday Hodgepodge. If you would like to join in this fun time just click on the button above and grab the questions, but you know you want to read my answers first. So, what are we waiting for? Let's go...

1. It's that most wonderful time of the year...tax season! Do you complete your own returns or farm that job out to the professionals?

I probably could, but we take ours to a CPA here at Willard. He does a wonderful job and does not charge a horrible amount, and I have no stress!

2. Which do you think has changed you more-love or pain?

Wow, this could get deep. I would say about even for me, let me explain: I went through a lot of pain during my divorce and did not trust anyone. Then I met my hubby and through his love I trust again and am happier than I have ever been. Had you worried for a minute when I said it could be deep, you were afraid I was going to be long winded. To be honest, I even surprised myself! lol

3. Tangerine Tango has been named color of the year for 2012. Your thoughts? Would I find this color anywhere in your house? How about in your closet? If not, will you be adding this color to your life in some way in 2012?

I like the color, it is a fun color. I don't believe I have any of that color in my house except maybe one or two of my sunset picture I have hanging in the office and the sun room. I don't believe I have that color in my wardrobe, I might need to look into that.

4. Are you a collector? What do you collect and does it get admired, used, and/or dusted regularly?

I have a collection of snowmen and I love Coca-cola collectibles. Yes I admire them and they get dusted when the rest gets it. A lot of my Coke collectibles is boxed waiting on my kitchen in Arkansas to get an overhaul. I plan on putting all of it in there.

5. February is National Heart Month... besides a green salad what is one tasty heart healthy dish you like to prepare?

I am not sure what recipes I use that is really heart healthy... shame on me! I know! We love Fruit Salad... will that work? :)

6. When was the last time you had car trouble?

It has been a couple of years, the old caddy had quite a few miles on her. We have not had any problems since we bought this one last year.

7. Have you been more demanding on yourself lately or less? Is that a good trend?

This question is hard to answer since I do not work, and just basically do what I want and enjoy time with my hubby. We have been busy with EBay lately but other than that, each day is a new day!

8. Random

I have a Prayer Request. We attend a very small church on the outskirts of Springfield and as of Sunday night we are without a pastor. There are no hard feelings, he just felt like the Lord was leading him to move on. He had been there 13 years. We found out Sunday morning, so please remember our church in your prayers. Please remember him and his family in prayer also. It is going to be so different...

That's all folks...

until next time... nel

Off With The Old And In With The New...

2012-01-31T16:52:00.000-06:00

I am in the process of making a few changes on my blog. Previously I have had my pictures posted on Webshots, but I have rethought that process and am now going to have them here through my blog. Please be patient with me as I work through this endeavor. I think it will be alot more user friendly and will protect my pictures at the same time. So as they say off with the old and in with the new! I will let everyone know when I have it up and running.
until next time... nel

Hodgepodging Vol. 62...

2012-01-25T00:01:00.001-06:00

That's right it is time for Wednesday Hodgepodge once again. That fun time of the week thanks to Joyce over at From This Side Of The Pond.

Here is my version:

1. The NFL playoffs were held this past weekend and this year's Superbowl lineup will feature The New York Giants versus The New England Patriots. How do you define patriot?

My thoughts are a person or group of people who love, support and defends his or her country, devoted to it above anything else. A good example would be all those who volunteer for the military.

2. What's something in your life right now that feels like a giant?

I really can't think of anything at the moment. Maybe the 4 or 5 book reviews I need to write, I have been procrastinating on those...remember I am the Queen!

3. What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think back to being 18?

Not a care in the world...feeling of freedom. Of course I did not realize it then, but I was living at home, had a nice full time job at A.O.H.A., and the only bill I had was a ninety dollar car payment and insurance. And I thought life was stressful...lolol.

4. Coconut-mashed potatoes-vanilla ice cream-mayonnaise...which white food would be the hardest to give up?

Well if I could change that mayonnaise to Miracle Whip that would be my answer, otherwise mashed potatoes - I love me some mashed taters!

5. Describe an incident or a day you remember as the coldest you've ever experienced?

It was January or February 1979 I still lived at home in Chicago and there was a blizzard. I mean I am talking we had like 3 ft of snow in our yard, (I wish I knew where the pictures were) I was getting ready for work and Dad and I went back out and shoveled the driveway out a 2nd time (the snowplow had come by and blocked the drive again). Then when I finally got to work, I had to walk across a big parking lot and a long sidewalk. I glanced across the freeway at the temperature gauge on one of the buildings and it read -11 and that was without the windchill. It was cold and seeing that just made it that much worse. Maybe that was one of the deciding factors of my moving to Arkansas in May of that year. lol.

6. You're hosting a brunch...what's your favorite dish to prepare and serve?

I make scrambled eggs with cheese, mushrooms and Rotel or salsa added to it and everyone seems to love it, or chocolate gravy and biscuits.

7. How do you combat negative thinking?

I try to find the positive or good in every situation. My glass is always half full. I have always believed if you are having a rough time pick yourself up, dust yourself off and keep on keeping on and pray!

8. Random

I have a lot of random thoughts I could list here but instead I want to share a song with you. You may of heard this before, but yesterday was the first time I heard it. If it doesn't give you goosebumps I am not sure if anything will...

until next time... nel

What A Masterpiece...

2012-01-22T15:50:00.002-06:00

The other night I stood outside watching a magnificent sunset, capturing it with my camera, as it went through all of it's stages, wiping tears and thanking God for what He has given us.

Watching the progression of the sunset it reminded me of how we are as Christians.

As you can see in the picture the sunset is just beginning, it is beautiful, but oh the possibilities. That is how we are when we first give our heart to the Lord. We are so excited and those around us can see and feel our excitement.

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house." Matthew 5:14, 15

As the sun sinks further the sky is constantly changing. The soft blues are disappearing, the colors are getting deeper and taking on almost a rich feeling.

As we get deeper in His word our colors begin to shine so to speak. Our attitudes about things begin to change. The more of His word we read the closer we feel to Him. People can begin to see a change in us.

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." 2 Corinthians 5:17

When He finally finished His masterpiece it was beautiful. He took a plain sky and created something beautiful just for us. It is totally amazing what He can do, and no two are alike. Just like what He did for each of us, with His amazing grace we became a Child of the King, His Child, an Heir to His Kingdom. You can't get much better than that! Amen!

until next time... nel

It's Time For Wednesday Hodgepodge...

2012-01-18T00:01:00.001-06:00

Wednesday already so that means it is time for Wednesday Hodgepodge. Click on the button if you would like to join in. It's a lot of fun and a great way to learn more about your bloggy friends.

So why waste any time here are mine:

1. A new Miss America was crowned on Saturday night-did you watch? If you were a contestant what would your talent be?
No I did not watch and as far as talent, I have no idea. I don't think any of my talents would qualify for Miss America. Perhaps a dramatic reading or something on that line.

2. Do you have houseplants? Real or fake?
I do not have any houseplants real or fake. We do have houseplants in our house, in fact during the winter our sun room is like a jungle. Patt has the green thumb in our house and they are all hers.

3. When you were in school did you speak up or were you more of the hide your face, avoid eye contact, and pray the teacher didn't call on you type of student?
I was definitely the second one, always hiding my face, hoping I would not be called on. I was very very shy and would not talk to anyone at all! Everyone now has a hard time believing that cause now I talk all the time to anyone and everyone.

4. Next Monday marks the Chinese New Year...what do you order when someone suggests Chinese food?
Usually we go to the buffet or I order off the buffet but if I had to choose probably Shrimp Fried Rice.

5. How would you define a miracle? What would it take for you to consider something a miracle?
I think a miracle is anything where you can see the hand of God in it, whether it be someone being healed, or the simple plant growing. If you think about a seed being placed in the ground and it turning into a beautiful flower or plant, is that not a miracle? I have had a miracle a few times financially years ago when I knew there was no way I was going to meet my monthly bills and I ended up with $2 or 3 over what I needed. Praise the Lord!

6. What's your favorite Disney song?
I think my favorite and the one that always comes to mind is "It's A Small World." That just screams Disney!

7. I should have _______ yesterday.
hmmm worked on my book reviews. I have got to get those caught up!

8. Random
It's been a good week! The Lord has truly been blessing us! We have been listing Precious Moments figurines and ornaments on Ebay this week, and it has been doing very well. Keeping us busy shipping them out! If you are looking for anything in particular just let me know. Who knows, we might have it in our inventory!

until next time... nel

Sharing...

2012-01-15T17:09:00.001-06:00

I seen this on Facebook today and just felt like I needed to share it. Perhaps someone is needing to hear it today... Enjoy the pretty pictures but please listen to the words. May it comfort you as it did me.

until next time... nel

Wednesday Hodgepodge Vol 61...

2012-01-11T00:00:00.002-06:00

It really seems like it was Wednesday yesterday and here it is upon us again. Time sure goes by faster the older you get. So once again it is time for Wednesday Hodgepodge. Click on the button above and grab the questions to answer on your little corner of the blog world. Go ahead you know you want to, it is a lot of fun!

So here we go...

1. Lake Superior University has once again published a list of words/phrases they think should be banished from the Queen's English is 2012. Which of these words would you most like to see banished from everyday speech and why?
I think "the new normal" is what I would banish. What's up with that? To me it sounds like a cop-out. An excuse for why people do what they do and a reason not to change things going in a bad direction, since everyone is doing it, it's ok...wrong!

2. Are you easily embarrassed?
I don't think I am easily embarrassed, I am pretty straight forward, not to many things embarrass me. I am pretty much an extrovert, just ask my husband or my kid. lol

3. What is your go-to snack?
Usually something salty... a handfull of chips or a few saltine crackers. Or if I want something a little different a dill pickle spear wrapped in a piece of bread. I know I am strange!

4. Have you ever been to Washington D.C? If you have been, what's your favorite site/attraction?

I have been, but it is hard to pick a favorite. The War Memorials and the Viet Nam Wall touched my heart. I caught a picture of a mom and her child looking at the Wall, and I couldn't help but wonder if it was a grandpa, or uncle maybe a brother or even a dad.

Another spot that grabbed my heart was the "Tomb Of The Unknown." We watched the changing of the guard and it was so impressive. If you have never seen this or read about it you need too. Amazing! It was also quite impressive as many people that were watching you could of heard a pin drop during the changing. Quite humbling.

The whole Washington DC area was mind boggling. There is so much history in that town. The Archives were so interesting. I was lucky enough that a friend was still working there, so I got a personal tour. The memorials were breathtaking especially at night and even the capital. My thought of the capital was: It was 11:00 at night and look at all the lights on in that building, no wonder we have a deficit. lol.

5. Sit ups - planks- lunges - squats... which do you hate the least?

Notice it said least... I would have to say probably lunges. Sit-ups not going to happen, squats the knees won't let me do that, so probably lunges.

6. What's a small act of kindness you were shown that you've never forgotten?

One winter after my divorce, the house my daughter and I lived in had a wood burning furnace and I was running out of wood. A friend of mine who is paralyzed from the waist down brought us a small trailer of wood behind his 4 wheeler that he cut himself. He knew we were running low and knew at the time I was in a financial bind so he came to my rescue. He would not take anything for it just told me that is what friends do for each other. He was my answer to prayer because I really did not know what I was going to do and I had given it to the Lord and asked for His help.

7. Have you ever been a blood doner?

No, I have not...sorry!

8. Random...

Ok... I have to know do you know what Pinterest is? Oh my gosh, I am loving it. It is so addicting. I am seeing so many cool ideas and things I want to try. You can find it here. I am not sure if my hubby is liking it so much...just saying! lolol

Have a great week... They are talking chance of snow here tomorrow evening. I will believe it when I see it...

until next time... nel

Hodgepodging New Year Style...

2012-01-04T00:01:00.003-06:00

Glad you have dropped by. It is time for Wednesday Hodgepodge, you know that fun time of the week where Joyce makes us think. Good brain exercise! It is a lot of fun and a great way to meet new bloggers. If you would like to join in after you read my responses click on the button above and hop over to Joyce's and copy the questions, then of course link up so we can all enjoy your responses too!
Here are mine...

1. What are three words you would use to describe your 2011?
Wow just three, see what I mean about making us think! I would say: roller-coaster, blessed and enjoyable.

2. Do you like shrimp? What's your favorite way to have it prepared?
I love it! Have not had it alot of different ways, but I love breaded shrimp. Also love shrimp dip that I make that you eat on crackers.  It is good boiled too, but I eat it with Tartar Sauce instead of the red sauce.  Patt makes a Stir Fry that has Shrimp in it on Rice. It has kind of a Sweet 'n Sour taste. It is good also.

3. Is your house de-Christmased? If so when did you tackle that job? If not, when will the decorations come down?
No it is not done yet, notice on previous post I am the Queen of Procrastination.  Thinking Thursday looks pretty good!

4. Do you like to watch scary movies?
No - Nope - Notta!

5. Ice skating - sledding - skiing - snowboarding - out of the four listed which wintertime activity do you most enjoy?
It depends are we actively participating or watching? If we are doing it - sledding, although I have not done it in years. The ground is farther away than it used to be! If I am watching, I love ice skating... they look so graceful, or skiing.

6. Did you have a childhood hideout? Describe it.
I remember when I was real little we had one on the farm. It was in the orchard, a fallen tree, that we had put weeds and brush up around.  There was a doorway and we could sit in there. I remember one time leaving my chairs to my table set out there and I had to go get them after dark. It was kind of scary.
With moving as I got older our basement was my hideout. Had my music and a pool table down there. Spent a lot of time there with cousins and friends. Good memories...

7. What's a place or space that motivates you?
Outside, just about anywhere, but I love to sit by a lake. See when I think of motivation I think of creative motivation. Wanting to create something or write something.

8. Random...
I am writing this on the 3rd and it would of been my Daddy's 93 birthday. Yesterday, it was 13 years since he passed, and I still miss him like it was yesterday! Love you Dad!

until next time... nel

Random Thoughts...

2012-01-02T21:08:00.000-06:00

Baby, It's Cold Out There! What is up with that? I know, I know it is January it should be cold, but may I remind you it was 59 degrees yesterday and the sun was shining. At this moment it is 28 degrees and the wind is blowing. I am sitting here in front of my computer with a blanket around my legs. Our office is cool in the winter and pretty stuffy in the summer. We were out today doing our monthly shopping and it was cold!

I have several projects I want to work on this winter we shall see...lol. I mean you are talking to the Queen of Procrastination, I can only accomplish so much and I have a puzzle or two calling my name.

I have got to get caught up with my book reviews, I just have not had the time to read anything through the holidays. We had a wonderful Christmas in Arkansas with the kids. They kept us laughing even though there were some sad times. We baked cookies and made candy, Peanut Butter Blossoms, Chocolate Chip, Snickerdoodles, Peanut Butter Balls, Turtles and Chocolate Covered Pretzels along with a Rum Cake.

After Christmas we tried out the donut maker Papa got me. Eden loved it...she thought that was the coolest. She had several ideas for toppings we will have to try next time. We just tried plain ones and dipped part of them in powdered sugar. They were quite good. Making memories, nothing better!

At church last night the message was about being content. The preacher pointed out that even though Paul was in prison or on house arrest he was content. In Philippians 4:11 he states that very thing. "Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." I have been thinking over these verses today and asking myself "Are you content?" If I honestly answer that question, I would have to say not 100%, there is a part of me that longs to be in Arkansas at times. I know the Lord will help me with this and I need to get deeper in His word. Because the more we have of Him in us the more we are content. Soooo.... this is not a New Year's Resolution because those never get kept, but I am going to try my best to get deeper in His word and closer to Him than I have ever been!

until next time... nel

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13 KJV

Looking back...

2011-12-31T22:52:00.001-06:00

Just wanted to take a few minutes and wish everyone a Happy New Year! My prayer is that God will wrap His loving arms around you this next year and give you peace and that feeling that you know He is there. I pray if you do not know Jesus as your personal savior that this will be the year that He becomes real to you. Trust me there is no feeling quite like it.

Looking back over the year, what a year it was. We had our good times and our not so good times. As most of you know Family means everything to me. My Hubby, grandkids and daughter are my world. We enjoy the time we get to spend with the kids.

We enjoyed a week in Panama City Beach in a condo right on the beach thanks to a cousin and her husband! Our original plans were to spend it with my daughter and her family but as we know at times plans do get changed. Due to Janice’s health her and Clint did not get to join us, but being the wonderful grandparents we are (or maybe a better word is crazy…lol) we enjoyed the week with Eden Jade and Cain. We had a wonderful time, laughed a lot, and cried a little, made memories we will never forget. What more can you ask for? I have to admit Granny and Papa Stan were exhausted when we made it home.

As I said Janice and Clint could not join us due to her health. The first episode she had she thought she was having a heart attack, so off to the ER they went. They could not find anything so they requested that she see a cardiologist. This began a long 4 months of tests, and diet changes and medicines. She was scheduled to have a pacemaker put in, actually was at the hospital, with IV’s in all prepped for surgery when the doctor came in and said he could not do it. She had not passed out completely so the insurance would not pay for it. Yes we were upset, disappointed, agitated, all of the above, but what we did not realize was prayers were being answered. We had been praying that whatever it took please help her to get back her much needed energy and health. After that roadblock she decided to start from scratch and found her a regular doctor. The doctor took a full blood panel and started from square one. From there she did a glucose test… guess what Jan is hypoglycemic and low on Vitamin D. Thank you Lord! With diet change and taking Vitamin D supplements she is feeling so much better. Granted she has a bad day once in awhile but we all do. It is so great to see the spring back in her step and the sparkle in her eye and I have to tell you this momma is smiling a lot. Yes, she still has a problem with her heart, but a lot of people do and never even realize it. If she would have had the pacemaker it would not of made a difference in the way she was feeling. Thank you Lord for always watching out for us.

These last few weeks of the year have been tough, I lost my Aunt Maxine. She was my mom’s youngest sister, the only one that was left. She was like my 2nd mom. She lived at Appleton, where we have our little house (used to be my mom’s); it is our home away from home. She always knew when she passed if the porch light was on we were in town and we would be visiting in a day or two. We had such a good time visiting with her; I already miss that! She was 86 years old, still lived alone and still drove herself wherever she wanted to go. Her mind was sharp, she answered so many questions I had about family history and gave me names for pictures that were mom’s so I could write them on the back. I hope and pray when I am 86 I am as sharp as she was.
When they had the viewing at the funeral home, 130 people signed the book, and we are sure there were several who did not. What a testimony that is, Aunt Maxine was a kind good-hearted woman who loved her family and friends more than anything else. Her husband Doyle Dean passed away in 1985 on December 19, the day before their 40th Wedding Anniversary. Aunt Maxine passed away 26 years later on December 19th. At the cemetery her kids and grandkids gathered to pay their respect and there was not a dry eye anywhere, she will be missed because everyone loved her and she loved everyone.

Don’t you know there was some kind of Reunion going on in Heaven on the 19th!

until next time... nel

Merry Christmas To You...

2011-12-24T00:37:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to wish all my blogging friends and all who read my blog a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We are in Arkansas for a few days enjoying the kids. Hope you have a great one!
until next time... nel

Christmas Hodgepodge Style...

2011-12-14T00:01:00.006-06:00

Christmas Hodgepodge Style, that almost sounds like it needs to be a song or a dance. It is that fun time again, if you would like to join in just click the button above and swing over to Joyce's place. Grab those questions then link up after you answer them so we can all learn more about you too. Of course first you might want to read my answers... or else!

Here we go folks...

1. Do you put Christmas decorations in every room of your house? If not every room, what rooms do you decorate?

The Living Room, Kitchen, Dining Area and sometimes the office gets decorations around here. We did not even pull them all out this year but it still looks festive!

2. If you could visit one of the Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) which one would you choose and why?

I really think probably Sweden. I would like to see the Alps, talk about pictures!

3. What does the word faith mean to you?

Wow... Believing in something you cannot see but knowing with all your heart and soul it is real with no doubts!

4. You can go back to your childhood for one day... what day and age would you choose?

I cannot think of one day in particular, but I would love to go back to life when we lived on the farm. We moved when I was 7 years old. I was 3 years old in the picture and had my best friend Penney with me. We were inseparable, spent a lot of time running around enjoying life not a care in the world! Good times and wonderful memories. When I hear Miranda Lambert's song The House That Built Me it always takes me back to life at home. I know some of you do not like country but if you have never heard this song listen to the words, guarantee it will take you back too.

5. When did you last have 'punch'? If it's not too much trouble share your favorite punch recipe.
Gosh it has been a long time, probably a baby shower or wedding shower 2 or 3 years ago. My favorite recipe was given to my by a dear friend of mine before she passed away in 1999. This is good stuff!

PINEAPPLE SLUSH

2 (46 oz) cans pineapple juice
2 tsp vanilla
½ small bottle lemon juice concentrate
4 cups sugar
4 Tbsp almond extract
Add enough water to make 2 gallons. Freeze. Thaw for 3 hours before serving.

Patsy Athey

6. Do you fill stockings at your house? Are stockings opened before or after the bigger gifts?
No we do not do stockings, I always did before I remarried. We usually always opened them before the bigger gifts. After Jan married we would do them usually sometime on Christmas day.

7. What takes your breath away?
My hubby can walk up behind me and kiss me on the neck and still take my breath away.

8. Random Thought
I would like to thank those who prayed for my Aunt, please continue to pray for her children. She is still in the hospital, however they have called Hospice in. Her body is beginning to shut down. Please continue to remember them.

until next time... nel

Already Monday...

2011-12-12T00:01:00.001-06:00

What? Monday already? I believe it is and it is time for Meet Me On Monday. If you would like to join in just click the button and grab the questions to answer on your blog then link up so we can all enjoy your answers and learn more about you. It is a lot of fun and what a great way to meet new friends. So here we go...

1. Tomorrow I'm going to _________?
I think I am going to try and put our Christmas tree up along with some of the other decorations. Next Monday we will be traveling to Arkansas, our home away from home. I will have to put the little tree up there and the village. You got to have decorations for the grandkids.

2. Pudding or Jello?
I prefer pudding, but I will eat jello as long as it does not have anything in it. My mom was famous for putting fruit cocktail in it, or cottage cheese. YUCK!

3. What book are you currently reading?
I am reading My Life and Lesser Catastrophes by Christian Schofield. It is one of my books for review from Bethany House Publishers.

4. What is the first concert you went to see?
Seals and Crofts - approx 1976 at a theater in the round in a suburb of Chicago. Gotta love some Seals and Crofts...

5. What is your current weather?
Cold but warmer that it was and not near as cold as it is going to get. How is that for confusing you? No Seriously it is... 36 and clear right now, supposed to get up in the 60's by Wednesday with some rain. We never know, it changes all the time.

That's it folks....

until next time... nel

Special Request...

2011-12-07T21:18:00.000-06:00

Please remember my Aunt in prayer. I blogged about her here. She is in the hospital tonight. She had a bad stroke. I am not sure all the details but it does not look good. Please remember her and her family in prayer!
Thank you!

until next time... nel

Am I Supposed To Be Shopping...

2011-12-07T00:01:00.001-06:00

It's time for that wonderful Wednesday Hodgepodge. Joyce tried to convince us it would be a nice break from shopping... gosh Joyce that is already done! And I love it! Yeah I know I can hear all the boos and hisses I am getting but I am finished except for one frame I have to pick up! I am waiting on some packages but they should be here this week. I can't believe it... I might need to check my list again. lol

On to the moment you have been waiting on - Here It Is:

1. Will you be hosting any house guests between now and the end of December? Does that though make you happy or crazy? Do you do anything special for your guest to make them feel at home? How long should a house guest stay?
I am not aware of any guests coming, I wish they were. We will be in Arkansas the week before Christmas and a few days after, I am sure our grandkids will spend some time with us. When I do have guests I try to make them feel at home, and I think how long they should stay depends on the guest. ...just saying! lol

2. Walter Elias Disney was born this week (December 5) back in 1905...what's your all time favorite Disney movie?
Wow this is a hard one, there are so many. I have to admit I have watched more Disney shows as an adult than I ever did as a child. Disney was just not a big deal in our family. We are a member of the Disney Club so we have quite the collection for the grandkids. I think my all time favorite is Lady and the Tramp. I did not realize the first one came out in 1955. I love the movie Tangled and Gnomeo and Juliet. There are so many Disney Movies that are great!

3. What was the last thing you purchased that you realized was a mistake after the fact?
I have a membership with SMC and I placed an order and realized afterwards I used a the wrong ship to address. I must of pressed the drop ship button and it is addressed to my daughter's address so I had to cancel it and reorder. :(

4. What percentage of your Christmas shopping is done online?
I would say probably 95% of it and I must say I am finished, just waiting on delivery!

5. Amaryllis-snowdrop-poinsettia...your favorite winter blossom?
I think poinsettia, there is something about seeing a poinsettia that just screams Christmas.

6. What is one thing on your personal Christmas wish list? I think we all want peace on earth so let's make this answer an actual item.
I actually blogged about this here. Short version Christmas Blessing Bags for those standing on the street corners.

7. If you could only use one word today what would it be?
Thank-you. Notice I used the hyphen to make it one word. lol. There are so many things we should be thankful for. The word Thank-you could be used for so many things and directed to so many individuals. But most of all Thank-you Lord for always being there and blessing my life more than I even realize!

8. Random Thought: Did you notice how I managed to squeeze in more than one Disney movie...lol. Isn't life great? I am so glad my daughter is doing so much better however please remember miss Eden Jade. She went to the doctor yesterday and it seems she has walking pneumonia. Not a real bad case but she is not feeling the best. Hopefully the 3 days of antibiotics will knock it out of her.

I guess that about sums it up. If you would like to join in just click on the Hodgepodge button above and grab the questions to answer. Don't forget to link up so we can enjoy your answers too.

until next time... nel

Trying Something Knew...

2011-12-05T12:54:00.001-06:00

I have seen this before on different blogs and decided I would join in. Kathy at Reflections by Kathy does this one each week. These are always a great way of meeting new friends. So if you would like to join in just click the button above and it will take you over to Never Growing Old and you can grab the questions, then link up. So here goes...

Questions:1. Monday's are _________?
Usually a day of relaxing. A lot of times I do our laundry on Mondays, basically we just do whatever comes our way. I am really getting used to this married life of not having to work. It is kinda nice not to have a schedule and rush through life getting things done. lol What am I talking about I meet myself coming and going... the only difference it is usually fun things, things I want to do.
2. What is your favorite kind of milkshake?
Vanilla, hands down. I am not a chocolate person, at least not a lot at one time. A small Wendy's Chocolate Frosty is about as big as you are going to see me with and sometimes I can't finish that - but ohhh they are soooo good!
3. What monthly bill do you most dislike paying?
The Dish Bill. It just gripes me to pay that much money and when you are looking for something good to watch you cannot find anything.
4. How many email addresses do you use on a regular basis?
Too many! I have 2 with yahoo that I use the most, then I have 2 with GMail for my blogs, then we have one for our Ebay selling.
5. What color lights are on your Christmas Tree?
Usually multi colored, I am sorry to say we still do not have our decorations up, it seems the time slips by before we realize it. I like either multi or the clear, I think the trick is several sets. We even wrap the inside pole, then put the tree together, then the outside lights. What a difference it can make.

Ok that about sums it up, that was fun. As you can tell I love to talk, as my hubby says sometimes too much. Join in and you can have fun too!

until next time... nel

A Moment In Time...

2011-12-03T14:24:00.001-06:00

Once in awhile in the midst of our busy lives something we do or something or someone we encounter takes us back in time. To a Moment in Time, one that for whatever reason has memories that we hold dear to our heart.

I encountered one of these times this last week. I made a doll quilt for Eden Jade. The material has squares of different colors and appears to be a quilt block, so of course that was a lot easier. Instead of quilting it by hand I used my sewing machine and also attached the binding. I did finish it (fold the binding over and sew down) by hand and I must say it turned out really cute. I know Eden Jade will love it. There are a couple of pictures below of the finished product.

While I was working on this project I was taken back to moments in my childhood and in my teen years. Mom was quite the quilter in our family. She was always piecing and quilting. I ran across a box full of pieced blocks not long ago that brought tears to my eyes. She would sit for hours cutting out blocks and sewing them together and eventually quilting them.

As I was growing up I remember thinking if she would only match her colors better she could sell her quilts for mega bucks. But you know what I love my mismatched quilts that cry out my mom's name and I would not take a thousand dollars for any of them.

As I was stitching down the binding on the doll quilt with my hands getting tired holding it, I thought how in the world did she hold those big ones and sew them and never complained. I tell you how, a lot of love went into her quilts. I sat there the other night and glanced at the one I have draped over the chair in our bedroom, there is no pattern to this particular quilt. Each piece is a different size and it is all sewed together to form the quilt. There are some big squares and some smaller ones along with rectangular shapes. Looking closer though I realized each one of those pieces are made from dresses or blouses I remember mom wearing when I was little. It actually is not quilted it is tacked with yarn which goes a lot faster. I am almost sure if I took it apart inside I would find probably an old blanket instead of cotton batting. You see to me this quilt tells a story. A story of a lady who was making covers to keep her family warm during a time when money was tight. She cut up some of her dresses and blouses to make the quilt top and put it together quickly. A story of a lady who would do anything for her family.

I remember as I got older she always wanted me to quilt with her, but it just was not something that interested me. I didn't ever have the patience to do a quilt, it was so big and took so long. I wish now I would of joined in that might of brought us closer. I can also remember those dang quilting frames hanging in the living room. I was so excited when I was in 3rd grade we moved to Northlake and we had a basement. Unfortunately they were hung above the pool table and as I grew up I looked at it as an embarrasement. Ohhh I would give anything to have her and her quilting frames in my living room right now. Funny how our outlooks change as we grow older. I know in my heart as I finished Eden's doll quilt she was smiling from above and I know she will tell me what a great job I did at a later moment in time.

"In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:2-3

until next time... nel

My Christmas List...

2011-12-01T11:55:00.070-06:00

I have something I want to share that has been on my heart lately. First let me make something clear, I am sharing this because it helps me to think things through, it is not for praise. My husband asked me what I wanted for Christmas and I first told him I was not sure. So I started thinking about different things but really could not come up with anything. I am so blessed and he loves to spoil throughout the year, so my list did not amount to anything... and then I received a catalog from World Vision. Yeah it felt like maybe that was the answer. I told him two ducks and three chickens. He kinda gave me that look, you know the look, where they think you have gone off the deep end. I still liked the idea but there was this feeling of needing to do something closer to home.

Yesterday while on Pinterest I seen an idea - Blessing Bags. You can see more information on these at this link: KWAVS. Maybe some of you had heard about these before but I had never seen them. What a great idea! Not only am I going to fix a few special Christmas ones I am going to fix some smaller ones and keep them in the car to hand out at different times. We are always getting soaps and amenities when we stay different places and usually I give those to the Women's shelter, but this would be another great way of using them.

My heart always goes out to the homeless especially during the Christmas season. It would be so sad not to have a family or a home, and yes there are a lot who take advantage of people and for no better word are panhandlers, but among those if there is one person that you can help or touch or witness to isn't it worth it?

So for my Christmas List, I am going to the Dollar Store and buying a few pair of warm socks, and gloves. Maybe some Christmas Candy, some personal items (e.g. deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash) and hopefully a small Bible and place these in a Christmas Bag. If you have any other ideas please include them in the comments. This my Christmas List from my hubby.

"And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then? He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise." Luke 3:11

until next time... nel

Hodgepodge Vol 55

2011-11-30T00:02:00.003-06:00

Gosh I am not even sure I remember how to do this, it has been so long. It sure does feel good to be back. Wednesday Hodgepodge is very entertaining and it is a great way to meet new friends. So just hop in and join the fun.

1. Do you send Christmas cards? If so about how many will you send this year? How do you display the cards you receive? Or don't you?
Yes we usually do. Between the two of us there is probably close to 100. He has several working buddies and family and I have a slew of friends and family from Arkansas. We usually receive around 75 and yes we do display them. I have a stand that has a sleigh and reindeer and has a stiff wire between the two. In this you place the cards. It is very pretty when filled.

2. When do kids become adults?
This is a hard one because I think it depends on the kids, but usually I would say when they turn 18 or 21 it is time to start treating them as adults. They need to learn how to figure life out on their own. I think our job is to be there if they ask for advice or if they need help.

3. Does your beauty regimen change with the seasons?
I would say the only change I really make is more moisturizer and lotion. My skin becomes very dry during the winter.

4. What's something you like to eat that might cause another person to turn up their nose?
If my mom was still living I would probably say turnip greens or poke salad. She loved cooking these and I enjoyed eating them once in awhile with fried potatoes and cornbread, not corncake, cornbread, no sugar added. Nothing like southern cooking. Now I would say probably orange slice candy and saltine crackers. They are so good together, have that sweet and salt thing going on. Ohhh thought of another one, mustard on my scrambled eggs. Don't knock it until you try it.

5. Gloves or mittens?
I have a pair of leather gloves that my hubby bought me that I absolutely love.

6. What's the longest queue that you've ever been in? Was it worth it?
Probably the longest one was waiting to eat at Lambert's Cafe in Ozark MO. We waited for an hour and a half. It was definitely worth it. I might mention Lambert's is the home of the throwed rolls. Here is the link: Lambert's Cafe

7. Besides Christmas, what is one thing you are looking forward to in the month of December?
We are going to take a day trip over to the Precious Moments Chapel at Carthage, Missouri. They have decorations and lights outside in the park area. We have never been there during the Christmas season, so I think it will be exciting. I am like a kid when it comes to Christmas Decorations. We also want to go in and talk to someone about older PM pieces. We are looking for a new book listing all of the pieces. We sell older Precious Moment figurines, and are listed as an secondary-market seller. We receive quite a few calls concerning these so an updated book would be beneficial.

8. Random Thought
I have so many random thoughts rolling around in my head it makes me dizzy at times. I have a picture that I would like to share. It is of my mom's baby sister and Eden Jade. My Aunt was the youngest of nine kids and the only one still living. She is 86 years old and still living and driving on her own. She did have a stint put in 5 days before I took this picture, but is doing great. She is such a hoot, she told her grandkids when they were at the hospital that night that they could all go home. She was not planning on dying yet. I hope and pray when I am 86 I can get around as good as she can and be as sharp as she is. She amazes me at times and holds a very special place in my heart.

That's all folks! Now just click on the button above and join in, you know you want too!

until next time... nel

Put Another Log On The Fire...

2011-11-28T22:29:00.004-06:00

Brrrr... It's cold out there! But it is the end of November, right?  I guess it is time. Christmas is around the corner - 26 days. Where has the time gone? I was always told time flies when you are having fun - dang, I must be having a blast, a whole lot more than I realized. lol.

We had a wonderful time in Arkansas! I would like to thank all of you that were praying for my daughter. She is doing great, like night and day. She found out she was hypoglycemic and was low on Vitamin D. So with changing her diet and taking vitamin supplements she is getting her energy back. She is even getting the sparkle back in her eyes. Praise the Lord! This momma is so happy!

Today I have been working on genealogy. I have been working on a puzzle that appeared to be missing some pieces. However after writing the information on the census sheets and looking at it all together I have figured out part of it. I found out a few years ago from a cousin that my mom's grandma Creacy was actually her step grandma.  No one knew the real grandma's name until my mom's sister found an affidavit of when her real grandma and grandpa married. Her name was Martha Boland. My hubby and I got a copy of the 1883 marriage certificate from the courthouse in Arkansas. It is soooo cool! My mom never mentioned it, or if she did I did not listen. Oh how I wish I would of listened more. Anyway I could not find any information on their grandpa besides his name until today. He was a Henderson. He remarried when my granny was 11. No one knows what happened to her mom Martha, that is another trail I have to follow at a later date.

After my g-grandpa William remarried, my granny lived with her grandpa and grandma and their last name was Plunkett. At first I thought maybe that was Martha's mom and dad, but was not sure where the Boland came in. Looking closer at several census records I am almost positive that Mary Plunkett was his mom.  William was 5 years old when they married. He is listed as the Plunkett's son on several different census'. So John was his step dad.  John is even listed as a witness on my great grandparent's marriage license. My puzzle now is figuring out who Will's dad was. Was his mom previously married?  This is possible since she was 30 years old when she married John. Questions, questions, questions...

That is what is going on in my corner of the world today, how about yours, what is going on in your corner? Genealogy is alot of fun, it does take alot of time and research, and it is very addicting. You should give it a try!

Just a reminder 26 days until Christmas! Is your shopping done?   :)

until next time... nel

Just Wanted To Say...

2011-11-23T22:35:00.000-06:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

A special wish to all those who read my blog and to my special bloggy friends! You are the best! Headed back home Saturday after a wonderful week in Arkansas... yes I am smiling! Have a great day and have fun making memories!

until next time... nel

Over The Top in Kansas City...

2011-11-13T21:25:00.004-06:00

Before I really get started I must apologize for being M.I.A. in blog land. I feel like I have been meeting myself coming and going. What free time I have had I have not felt like sitting in front of the computer, the sewing machine has been my friend lately. Okay enough of that let's get to what this post is really about... and yes it is going to be long, you know how I love to talk!

On November 4th and 5th I had the privilege of attending the Women of Faith conference in Kansas City, MO entitled "Over The Top." What a joy and blessing it was! We were laughing one moment and crying the next.

Unfortunately the speaking schedule had to be changed due to Marilyn Meberg being under the weather. We missed you Marilyn and hope and pray you are feeling better. I have to say your cohorts regrouped nicely and schedules were adjusted.

What a blessing this weekend was from Friday morning through Saturday afternoon it was awesome! The Worship Team consisted of Kara Tualatai, Hope Darst, Michelle Swift and Jovaun Woods. They started us off with praise songs and continued various times throughout the conference. There is something about 6000 women lifting their voices and hearts to God. He was there, you could feel his spirit all around us. On the choruses they would hold the microphone towards the audience so we could be heard. The only way I can describe it is that is how I imagine the angels singing in Heaven sounds. It was beautiful. We were singing praise songs to Jesus but the song that kept going through my head was There's a sweet sweet spirit in this place and I know that it's the spirit of the Lord... as I wiped tears and recovered from cold chills. What a blessing!

Patsy Clairmont was our first speaker. What can I say about Patsy, she can have you laughing one minute and wiping tears the next. Patsy shared her life with us ups and downs.

There are 3 things we need to do every morning: 1) We need to say Yes to God. He has an adventure waiting for us, whatever the day might bring, we need to remember He is with us. 2) We need to Thank God, for all He has done for us and for all he is going to do. 3) We need to be able to say No sometimes, not no to God but no to the people around us who tries to pull us from God's agenda. We need to learn to have a Heart Attitude of Grattitude. We need to remember behavior is louder than what we say! Sometimes we just need to shut up in Jesus' name. We all have stained glass hearts, they have been broken and devastated at times, but when we let God shine through it is beautiful, like a masterpiece.

Andy Andrews thought he was special by being the only male speaker but believe me that is not what made him special. What a man of God! He is a wonderful motivational speaker.
We need to invest in ourselves, we control the input, what we watch, what we listen to, where we go are a vew examples. We need to live our life purposefully. Our purpose is not yet fulfilled, the best is yet to come. As long as we are still breathing that is proof of Hope. We need to remember that everything we do matters but so does everything we don't do. God gave the birds worms to eat but He did not put them in their nest. Instead of sitting back and letting life pass us by we need to find our passion. Perspective is more important than answers, where is our perspective? One of Andy's secrets he shares is you need to always smile while you are talking, this will make a difference in the way people see you.

Lisa Whelchel was a well known figure in our household. I don't think we missed an episode of Facts of Life where she played Blair. Lisa grew up on the set of Facts of Life, that is why she realized when that part of her life was over she did not really have any friends and she wanted so bad to have friends.
Lisa had several important points: 1) To have a friend you have to be one. Do not place expectations on people, just accept what they have. 2) Find a friend who has it all together - then run. If you feel they tend to be perfect they are going to expect you to be perfect too. 3) An imperfect person can turn into the perfect friend. 4) A real friend listens hears and recieves you - they don't try to fix you. We need to remember God sees us, hears us and still draws closer when we mess up if we let Him.

Brenda Warner has a wonderful testimony of God's love and how He has always been there through times of testing and tragedy.
At 18 Brenda was serving as a US Marine Semper Fi. She is married to Kurt Warner who is a retired NFL superstar. Her life has taken her down many roads of sorrow and loss. She has faced many challenges and continues with God by her side. She pointed out that our circumstances to not determine who we are. We have the choice of what we do with those circumstances, how we face them. At times we are faced with choices we have to make; do we wallow in self pity or do we worship God no matter what? Brenda is a wonderful courageous speaker!

Deborah Joy Winans (neice of CeCe) was on the Drama Team. She did a wonderful job and had us laughing and then wiping tears the next moment. She is an extremely talented lady! And we were so excited she announced her engagement to the Women of Faith team on Friday. Congratulations Deborah!

Sandi Patty also shared her lifestory and worshipped with us in song. She is such a talented beautiful lady inside and out.

Mandesa is a talented young lady also. She was a finalist on American Idol and has come a long way since singing in her bathroom using her curling iron for a microphone. She mentioned that she can see the work God is doing in her heart and you can tell by her singing. Wow! You can hear Stronger from her album What if We Were Real here.

Amy Grant one of my all time favorite singers during the time I was a youth leader at our church put on a fabulous concert. She is such a special lady and so down to earth! You can listen to Better Than a Hallelujah from her CD entitled Somewhere Down The Road here. This is one of my favorite songs.

And of course we have to mention Anna Trent, she was our announcer and by the way just happens to be Sandi Patty's daughter. She did a wonderful job! Yeah Anna!

We received an added blessing by meeting Lynda Randle. She is a sweetheart and such a woman of God. She is a wonderful singer and has appeared on several of the Gaither Homecoming Videos. We were so excited to have our picture made with her.

What a weekend! If you ever get a chance to attend a Women of Faith Conference do not let the chance pass you by, grab it! All of you people behind the scenes did a wonderful job getting this together! You are awesome!

I would like to personally thank Book Sneeze a division of Thomas Nelson Publishing for this opportunity. I review books for Book Sneeze and had the opportunity to enter my name in for 2 free tickets. The only stipulation was to review the conference on my blog which is an honor! You guys rock!

Here is a slideshow of the pictures I took. Hope you enjoy them.

until next time... nel

Blog Catch-Up Post #1

2011-10-23T21:03:00.000-05:00

I am going to try my best to catch up on my blog this week. I have not posted about our wonderful anniversary adventure. We had such a good time. I love getting away and just enjoying life. We stayed at a wonderful place; it was nestled in the trees and hills on northern edge of Branson. It was a Bed and Breakfast, but we opted out on the breakfast. You can check it out by clicking on the name: Aunt Sadies Bed and Breakfast.

We stayed in the Hideaway on the end of the main house. The room was beautifully decorated and very clean. The hot tub on the screened in porch was an added amenity, one that we enjoyed every night. Everyone was very friendly and the surrounding area was so peaceful, very homey and country! Here are a few pictures:

This pear tree was close to our room unfortunately it was behind a fence, it just looked so inviting. I am sure that was why the fence was up it looked inviting to the deer also. We did not get to see any deer while we were there, probably because we did not get out of bed early enough…lolol.

This was an old cream separator that they were using for a planter. A nice added touch! The sign on it said “While you’re here as our guest, may you find peace and rest.”

Another touch of country…

I thought this was a beautiful lamp.

The yard was a wildlife sanctuary, especially for the birds.

The hummingbirds were fun to watch. They were going at it all day long. This is one of many pictures I took of them.

This feeder was filled every morning and by dusk it was empty.

Every bird needs a church.

This was a neat flower made out of thin metal.

I loved this; it was on the end of the main house.

We were very pleased with our stay and would recommend it to anyone. Next post will be about the wonderful shows we attended.

until next time...nel

Be still...

2011-10-11T22:28:00.002-05:00

I want to apologize in the beginning for this long post, but I just felt led to share what was on my heart...

Have you ever taken a step back and looked at the situation and realized your prayers were being answered but you were not listening? I am sure we have all done this more times than we would like to admit. We get caught up in the moment and human nature takes over and we forget to listen. We forget to listen to that small but oh so big voice that tries to guide us the way we need to go.
“Be still, and know that I am God:” Psalm 46:10a

As a lot of you know my daughter has been dealing with some health problems. About 4 months ago she was bowling with her family and friends when she started feeling funny. Actually she thought she was having a heart attack, so off to the ER they went. Thank God it was not a heart attack but they did think it was something to do with the heart. After many tests they decided she had this syndrome with a big long name, but basically it is where your brain and heart are not communicating properly and your blood pressure drops and you feel like you are going out. This is one of those syndromes that sometimes people have and do not realize it until it suddenly shows up. Basically there are three ways to correct this, 1) with diet change (lots of salt) 2) medicine or 3) a pacemaker. She had been having other symptoms also: just a yucky feeling, and no energy at all. They tried the diet change, but it did not make a difference, she could not handle the medicine because of the side effects it caused, so all that was left was the pacemaker. There was another important factor several times during this period her potassium level showed up as being low. Unfortunately she did not have a general physician, the one we had used for years had retired.

I want you to remember this has been 4 months my daughter has been dealing with these issues, and this momma has been worried. Key word worried, why do we worry? God has it under control; there were a lot of people praying for her. But again human nature takes over, I think us mommas just think we should be able to fix everything and if we can’t we worry about it.
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

Let’s fast forward to a week and a half ago, on a Thursday; she was scheduled for a pacemaker in Little Rock. She was ready for the surgery, x-rays were taken, blood was drawn, heart monitor was on, iv was inserted, the nurse came in and said all they were waiting on was the doctor. Five minutes later he came in and told us he was not doing the surgery, when they ran it through their program it kicked out that the insurance would not pay for it because she had not completely passed out. Unbelievable… or that was my thoughts at the time, I bit my tongue while he was talking, just could not believe this was happening. So we did the only thing we could do we left. My daughter handled it very well, she did not get upset, and they made a few phone calls to the insurance hoping to get something worked out.

My daughter and I were talking a few days later and we talked about how we believe that everything always happens for a reason, God is in control. Our prayers were answered, we had been praying that the Lord would take care of her and whatever she needed he would see to it. Evidently she does not need a pacemaker at this time, perhaps that pacemaker would not help with the sluggish worn out feelings, perhaps that has to do with the potassium levels. She has an appointment with a GP Thursday, they are going to start with new blood work ups and check everything.

It is so hard to see your kids hurting and feeling bad and you can’t fix them. But we can do one better we can pray and ask the Master Physician to wrap his arms around them and protect them and help them. But when we do we need to have faith He will answer our prayers if it is His will, we need to just lay it at His feet and give it to Him. A Lesson Learned!

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

until next time… nel

Please continue to remember my daughter and her family in prayer!

Guess Where I Am Going In A Month....

2011-10-03T12:54:00.002-05:00

I am so excited! The timing of this conference is perfect, but then again everything God does is perfect! Life has been so crazy and hectic lately with everything going on with my daughter, I think this is just what I need! And to top it off - I received the tickets through Book Sneeze, a publisher I review for. How awesome is that? Since my daughter has not been feeling well she declined to attend so I offered the chance to my sister-in-law. So we are going to spend two fun filled days praising the Lord! You can't get much better than that!

Here is a tentative listing of the speakers: Patsy Clairmont, Marilyn Meberg, Sandi Patty, Lisa Whelchel, Brenda Warner, Deborah Joy Winans, Amy Grant and Mandisa. Below is a film clip about the Over the Top Conference put on by Women of Faith.

I have always wanted to attend one of these conferences, but the opportunity had never arose until now. Yes I am excited! And yes, you will hear more about this wonderful conference!

"But grow in grace, and in Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen" 2 Peter 3:18

until next time... nel

Hurry Up and Wait...

2011-09-29T15:47:00.001-05:00

What a familiar phrase... that is technically what happened this morning with my daughter's surgery. We were in her room waiting, the nurse had told us we were good to go... just waiting. And folk's she is still waiting. The doctor came in and basically told her that her insurance was not agreeing to pay for the surgery this morning, supposedly because she had never passed out completely. So they did not do it.
Evidently the hospital ran it thru their insurance program and it did not pass. Why they waited till the last moment I am not sure. Jan and her hubby are talking to the insurance and waiting for a reply... they said they did not deny it. Two insurance reps had already approved it. So Jan and Clint went to the doctor's office and got the case numbers from when it was approved. So the insurance representative is trying to figure out what is going on. So....
Again I ask for prayer that this bend in the road be straightened out quickly. My daughter needs to get her strength back. Remember this momma in prayer also... they are messing with my baby!

until next time... nel

Please Remember To Pray...

2011-09-29T07:25:00.000-05:00

My daughter is having the pacemaker put in this morning. Please pray for her and for the Doctors that our Lord will guide their hands! Praying and believing this procedure will restore my daughter's health and she will regain her strength! Thanks for storming Heaven...

until next time... nel

Then Sings My Soul Saturdays...

2011-09-24T00:01:00.001-05:00

I have not been here in some time but I ran across this song. I know a lot of you do not like country music but this is a beautiful song... humour me and just listen to the words!

That about sums it up, what more do you need? Besides 3 nails and a cross!

until next time... nel

Catching up...

2011-09-17T22:16:00.001-05:00

We had a wonderful time in Arkansas as always, a busy time but a good time. Cain turned 10 years old so there was a birthday party. He is getting so big. He had a wonderful time, he received several nice presents and a hand full of money. His dad and Jan got him a notebook computer, he was so excited. Here are a few pictures:

One night Cain played football, well unfortunately he does not get to play a lot this year. It is 5th and 6th graders and he is in 5th, but boy watch out next year, he will be ready for them! Other than that we really did not do a lot. I did some hand sewing while we were there. Eden Jade was invited to a Toy Story themed birthday party. She decided she wanted to be Jessie, at least it wasn't the horse or Buzz. It wasn't real hard just dressed up a white shirt and some jeans. Just for the record I love to sew but I hate hand-sewing and everything was done by hand. It was well worth it though, especially when a little girl looked up at me and smiled that special smile and said, "Oh Granny this is so cool, Thank you so much." Yeah, that did it the fingers quit hurting and I never thought about it again. She looked real cute. Here are a few pictures, you knew I would have pictures, right? lol.

Well it looks like they have finally decided what to do for my daughter. She is having a pacemaker put in on the 29th of this month. Please continue to remember her in prayer for a speedy recovery. Also, that she will get back her strength and start feeling better. She is getting so tired. She will be able to return to work after a few days but will not be able to use her left arm or drive. She will wear a sling to remind her not to use it, I remember that is the hard part. Our plans are we will be there for the surgery, then Stan will come home and I will stay to help my daughter, then later in the month he will come and get me. Please remember us in prayer also, this will be the first time since we married that we will be apart, I am really going to miss him. You do what you gotta do though, and my daughter needs me!

My hubby is so sweet, he knows how I enjoy the internet, and my blogging, unfortunately we do not have internet in Arkansas, so we are getting a hotspot from Verizon for me to take. After I return home we will then cut our DSL off and use the hotspot here at home also. He is soooo sweet!

I think I have rambled long enough.

"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song I will praise him." Psalm 28:7

until next time... nel

It's Hodgepodge Time...

2011-09-14T00:01:00.002-05:00

Wow Where does the time go? I have been planning on posting some pics from our Arkansas trip and write a little about it, but here it is time for the Hodgepodge. I will get it done, eventually...lol. But now it is time for Wednesday Hodgepodge, just click on the button above and grab the prompts from Joyce and share your thoughts with the rest of us. You know it will be fun... trust me!

1. What do you do at the first sign of a cold? Will you get a flu shot this year?
I usually take an over the counter generic cheap pill for a day or two and see if it will take care of the problem. It usually does. I do better now that I take a generic sinus pill every night before I go to bed. Have not been sick enough to go to the doctor in over a year. As far as the flu shot - nope not me, never have, I don't see any reason to start now. I would probably be like my dad he took one once and thought he was going to die... that would be my luck. lol

2. What advice can you give about how to conquer fear?
Pray about it and pray some more!

3. Share two good things about your life right now.
Stan and I are both basically in good health. Secondly, I am happier than I have ever been thanks to my sweet hubby!

4. A hot fall fashion trend in 2011 is a return to sixties style...tunics with pants, shift dresses, pencil skirts, cinched waists, bold prints, high necklines and short lengths to name a few. How does this fashion trend fit with your wardrobe and personal sense of style?
I have never been one to worry about fashion, I wear what I have and what I like, always have, always will.

5. Were you involved in scouting as a kid? How about as an adult?
No I was not involved, was never allowed to join. I did attend a bluebird meeting at a neighbor's house and thought it was so much fun, but my parents still would not let me join. After I was an adult and had my daughter, I would of in a heartbeat, but Jan was never interested, so no not as an adult either.

6. Apple, pear, plum, pumpkin...your favorite fall flavor?
You know I cannot choose just one, so I am going with apple and pumpkin!

7. What characteristics do you think are essential in a good teacher?
The ability to work and accept diverse backgrounds and abilities is essential, along with: a desire to educate, creativity, energy, patience, and the ability to be excited about what they are teaching.

8. Random...
My daughter has an appointment with the cardiologist today. It will be interesting to see what they are going to do. She was unable to take the two medicines they prescribed due to the side effects. She could not function while taking those meds. Please remember her in your prayers, she is so disgusted with the whole thing and this momma wants to go have a talk with them...lol, but that would probably not be a good thing! So I need to pray also and let the Lord have it, for He will take care of it for us!

until next time... nel

Here We Go...

2011-09-02T21:50:00.002-05:00

Yep that is it here we go... On the road again! I think that should be our theme song! We do love to travel even if it is short trips or adventures. We are headed to Arkansas, we have to get some spoiling time in. Plus we have a birthday party to attend, Cain Alan will be 10 years old here in a few days. He was a little bitty guy when him and his dad joined our family. Here he is at 3 years old,

now he is almost as tall as me and weighs in at 109 lbs. He is playing for the Peewee Football Team and I am so excited they have a game Tuesday night! So we know what this Grandma and Papa will be doing on Tuesday! My daughter told me earlier today they were already asking her if they could spend the night tomorrow and Sunday, and her response was Granny may not want you! Eden's reply was huh? Granny always wants us... they know this Granny and Papa pretty good! Not sure how connections will be... so if I am not here see you at the end of next week! Have a good one - we will!

Happy Birthday Cain Alan! We Love You!

until next time... nel

Wednesday Hodgepodge - Number 42...

2011-08-31T00:01:00.001-05:00

It is that fun time - Wednesday Hodgepodge. This is week 42, that is hard to believe! Joyce, I just want to say Thank You, you are doing a remarkable job. I don't know how you come up with so many ideas! If any of you would like to join us just click on her button above and you can get the prompts for this week. It is a lot of fun and a great way to make new friends.

Here we go...

1. Do you think the world became a more dangerous place on September 11, 2001, or did we just become more aware of the danger? How has your own life changed as a result of that day?

Yes I think it did. I think it resulted in terrorists realizing they can get into the United States and cause havoc here. As for me I think I am more conscious of my surroundings and I listen to the news and read reports online more.

2. Did you think your parents were too strict when you were growing up? How about hindsight?

Yes I did, I was not allowed to join in anything at school. Now though, I understand why they felt that way. We were living in the city and they were from the south and did not have a high school education. Some people out in the work place made fun of them and they were protecting me from that humiliation.

3. Share one random but candid fact about yourself.

I am scared to death of roller coasters, the big ones, notta, no way, no how!

4. Would your nearest and dearest describe you as simple or far to complicated?

Simple, I had to ask him, that is what I was hoping he would say. He said I like the simple life and that I do!

5. What is your favorite stadium or carnival food?

I would have to say either popcorn or nachos with a few jalapeno peppers on the side and a great big coke. Actually that would be carnival food, I have never been in a professional stadium except back in 1999 when our Hector Wildcat Football team went to state. I have never been to a professional ballgame...I think I need to change that!

6. Tornado, hurricane, earthquake...how many of these natural disasters have you experienced? Which event do you think would be the scariest?

I was in a tornado on my 19th birthday. It was quite scary. I just searched my blog and cannot find where I have ever really written about it, I need to do that soon. I think an earthquake would scare me to death. I guess it is the unknown, whatever you are not accustomed to.

7. Labor Day weekend is approaching so a work related question seems appropriate. Growing up, did your parents assign you regular chores? Were you paid for doing those chores? If you're a parent do you assign chores to your own children? Why or why not?

I really did not have any assigned chores. When my mom cleaned house I usually dusted. And I usually mowed the yard. I wish now I would of had more to do. I remember when I was a teen they gave me $5.00 a week, and if I wanted something I saved my money to purchase it. If I bought my lunches at school, that also had to come out of that money.

I think my daughter had a few chores probably not nearly enough. And usually I think we gave her a little money for doing them.

8. Random Thought

Can I have three? First... make sure you check out the pictures on my last post of that precious Maci LeAnne. Second... The post before that is about my photo blog NFast Photos. It is finally up and running make sure you check it out. Last but not least... Please continue to remember my daughter. Bless her heart they still are trying to get her fixed. The diet change did not work. They told her they had a couple medicines that usually worked, well guess what... she had allergic reactions to them. She is waiting now to hear from the doctor she called today about the last medicine. We may be looking at a pacemaker and she is only 29 years old. Please remember to pray for her... and pray for this momma that wishes she could fix this!

until next time... nel

Maci LeAnne Melton

2011-08-30T17:25:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to share some pictures of my g nephew's baby. This is Maci LeAnne Melton. Her mommy and daddy are Amanda and Tony Melton.

She was born 8-18-11 at 12:26 pm. She weighted 2 lbs 9ozs and 14 1/2 inches long!

And yes she already has Daddy by the finger...

And here she is snuggling with her mommy! Look how tiny, is she not precious?

She is a little fighter they had to place her IV in her head because she kept pulling it out. As of Sunday she weighed 2 lbs 13oz and only has a feeding tube. They are feeding her thru a tube as a precautionary measure. She is breathing on her own and always has. They are estimating probably about 4 1/2 weeks in the hospital.

She is definitely a miracle baby! Thank you so much for all of your prayers!

until next time... nel

2011-08-26T18:11:00.000-05:00

WOO HOO! I am so excited. I now have my Greeting Card/Photo Blog up and running. Stop by and check it out! NFAST PHOTOS We are open for Business! Would love to hear your comments and thoughts and would love to have your business! Keep me in mind when you need that special card. If you don't see it just ask...

until next time... nel

Hodgepodge Perfection Vol. 41...

2011-08-24T00:01:00.002-05:00

I am so glad to be back this week. This summer has been crazy... in a good way, just busy! It is hard to believe that school has started, before we know it it will be Christmas time. (sorry!)

If you would like to join in click on the button above and grab the questions to answer on your page, then make sure you link up so we can laugh at yours too. Of course you want to read my answers first, you know you do... Right?

1. What is something that bothers you if it's not done perfectly?

Gosh I can think of a few different things, but top of the list would be: Balancing the checkbook with the bank to the penny! It's my job gotta do it! Another thing is when I sew, I have been known to rip things out several times just cause I do not like the way it looks. Nobody else would probably even notice, but I do and it would drive me up a wall to leave it.

2. Do you think a 6th sense exists? Explain.

Yes I do, I think women have a 6th sense, men not so much. Most women especially if they are moms have a way of knowing things. You just get feelings, you know when something is not right.

3. Do you say your goodbyes slowly, quickly, or not at all?

We don't say goodbyes, it is always see ya next time, see you next month or catch you next time. Goodbyes to me are to definite like the last time.

4. On a scale of 1-10, with ten being hot hot hot, what level of spice do you like in your food? What's your favorite 'spicy' dish?

I would say I am about a 5 or 6. I do not like it really hot but I do like a little bite to it. I would say my favorite spicy dish is a fried Spanish rice that Patt makes. She puts ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and corn in it. Good stuff! We actually had it tonight, mmmm good!

5. What is one of your all time favorite commercial jingles?

This one was fun, I had to finally stop looking at all of the clips on youtube. lol. I think my favorite was Good and Plenty Candy. Gosh I remember singing that all the time when I was little.

6. Plane, train, boat or auto...your preferred method of travel?
I love to travel by auto, especially if I am not in a hurry. I love to stop and take photos on the way and I prefer to travel the back roads.

7. What is something you take for granted?
I think there is a lot that we take for granted. But probably the biggest is health. We fail to count our blessings if we are in good health. I think we tend to take our family and friends for granted sometimes also, we just get in this mode where we think they will be around forever, time passes too quickly. We think we will tell them how much they mean to us and how much we love them tomorrow... but sometimes tomorrow is gone.

8. Random Thought
I have a special prayer request. My great nephew and his wife had a baby last week, Maci LeAnne. She is a preemie about 9 weeks early. She weighs 2 lbs 9 oz. and is 14 inches long, she is just a tiny little thing. She seems to be doing wonderful. Please remember her momma also, she had a C section because of some complications and is still having problems with her blood pressure. Please remember them in prayer.

until next time... nel

BOOK REVIEW: The Canary List

2011-08-19T01:00:00.001-05:00

The Canary List by Sigmund Brouwer finds Crockett Grey or Mr. G as Jamie calls him mourning the anniversary of his daughter Ashley’s death. This being the one-day every year that Crockett allows himself to drink himself into oblivion. However, he had the feeling he was not by himself and looking up at the window he thought he saw her looking back at him, but of course he knew it could not be. It was Jaime Piper a foster kid from his school.

Jaime was different than a lot of the other kids, she could sense Evil really sense Evil, as in Demons and it scared her to death. Dr. McKenzie was helping her deal with these issues, or was she? She told Jaime they were going to hunt Evil and find it. Jaime finds herself testing the Cardinals in the Vatican – seeing if they were demon possessed. Crockett Grey finds himself in the middle of all the problems, only because he knows too much and he has to clear his name. He was framed. There are a lot of characters in this book and a lot going on, and a lot of mystery.
This was a very good fast-paced book, but could be very confusing at times. It was one of those books that found you sitting on the edge of your seat, one that you wanted the lights on while you were reading it. I highly recommend it if you like a good mystery.

To download Chapter 1 or watch a video about this wonderful book click here.

I received this book free from Blogging for Books the blogger review program for Waterbrook Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

until next time... nel

BOOK REVIEW: A Place Called BLESSING

2011-08-18T22:10:00.003-05:00

A PLACE CALLED BLESSING, Where Hurting Ends and Love Begins by John Trent, PhD with Annette Smith was an eye opener for me. This book is wonderfully written and makes you think about how everything we do has an affect on someone around us. Are you a Blessing to everyone you meet? This is the question you start asking yourself after reading this book. It kind of jumpstarts you and makes you realize everything we do can be a blessing to those around us, and isn’t that a way for us to be more Christ-like.

Dr. Trent has shared the message of the biblical blessing for years but this book shares that same blessing in a story form. This book finds Josh who through unfortunate circumstances lost both his parents in a drunk-driving accident. Josh has experienced it all, at first it was good, him and both of his brothers were in the same foster home, but then after the tragic fire they were separated. Josh blamed himself for this separation; after all he caused the fire, didn’t he? By the time Josh was eighteen he was an angry young man with an attitude. Fortunately, Josh meets up with Mike and Anna who not only gives him a place to stay but offers him unconditional love, for the first time in Josh’s life, but tragedy strikes again? Will Josh remember what he has learned about the blessing? Find out the answers to these questions in this wonderful book.
This is a great book and includes a wonderful study guide and “A Special Message From Dr. John Trent” to help you completely understand “The Blessing,” and perhaps take The Blessing Challenge.

I received this book free from Book Sneeze the blogger review program for Thomas Nelson Publishing. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

until next time... nel

Missing In Action...

2011-08-17T21:04:00.000-05:00

This is how I feel, like I am missing in action. I ended up going to the doctor when we returned home, I had a toe that was bothering me. Yes it was an ingrown toenail, but unfortunately it got really infected and was turning black and blue with stuff draining from it. So yes I decided it was time. For a week I took 2000 mg antibiotic a day, which put me to sleep. I have to say it did clear up the infection, so on Monday of this week I went in for him to look at it. He decided to remove part of it... notice I said he decided. I would love to say Thank Goodness he deadened it, and yes I am glad he did, but those needles hurt worse than anything else. He stuck me five different times, he tried to make me feel better about it, said the one was an extra on him, he put it in the wrong place. Thanks Doc! Needless to say when he cut the nail and pulled half of it off I did not feel a thing. It is a little sore now especially when I have to change the bandage. I have been taking some pain pills, they are working really well, don't feel a thing and can fall asleep at the drop of a hat. I will be glad when I can quit bandaging it up and quit taking any pills. I hate taking medicine!

We have had a pretty easy week here in the Fastenau household. We mess with Ebay some and I listed several things this week. One of them was an old milk bottle with the dairy name on the side. I started it at $25 and it closed at $136, I was pretty excited, I would of been happy with 25 but I was jumping for joy and what it closed at. You just never know with Ebay. I had picked up 3 coffee mugs for 30 cents at a yard sale and sold them for $5.00.

My grandkids started school this week. Eden Jade is in Kindergarten, that is so hard to believe. She is just growing by leaps and bounds and has come so far! Cain Alan is in 5th grade this year, that is hard for me to believe also. He joined our family when he was 3 years old. Nothing like those grandkids! These are taken on their first day of school this year.

Prayers do get answered!

I will try to get back in the blogging groove. I have to get caught up on reading everyone's posts also. Have a great week...

until next time... nel

BOOK REVIEW: The boy who came back from heaven

2011-08-05T00:01:00.001-05:00

“The boy who came back from heaven” is a true story written by Kevin and Alex Malarkey. This story finds Alex and his dad Kevin on their way home from church, after making a few stops. Kevin was talking to his wife and turned to answer Alex as he was pulling into the intersection and the next thing he remembers is the sound of metal crunching and then silence. There was a terrible accident. From all account they did not think Alex would pull through. He was taken to Children’s Hospital by helicopter. Kevin was taken to the local hospital. Kevin left the hospital after he was told he had no broken bones but they were going to keep him for observation. He had different plans; he had to get to his son and the rest of his family. Alex was in a coma for two months, people around the world were praying for him. He had extensive injuries and they were afraid if he did come too there would be brain damage. Little did they know Alex had the Great Physician on his side.

This story talks a lot about the family’s hardships and the trials they were faced with and how their praying and other prayer warriors helped them to overcome. Alex also talks about his time in Heaven. I am sure a lot of people will be skeptical, but there were details of the accident that Alex knew because he was watching from Heaven. Alex describes some things in Heaven but there are some things he is not allowed to share because God told him not to.

There is so much I could say about this wonderful book. Alex is truly a courageous little boy, but he does not want this to be about him. He wants it to be about God, he wants to share Him! There was a statement in the book that I would like to share. This is Kevin the father talking: “Every one of us will, to some degree or another, be faced with a new normal sometime in life. When we embrace it and carry on we tend to be a lot happier.” This is a book you do not want to miss!

You can find more information about Alex, his story and read Chapter 1 here.

I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

until next time... nel

BOOK REVIEW: Stealing Jake

2011-08-04T16:53:00.002-05:00

Stealing Jake by Pam Hillman opens on the streets of Chestnut Illinois in November 1874. Livy O’Brien steps in and corrects the situation of a street kid stealing a watch from a gentleman on the boardwalk. A street kid named Luke. Livy is quite knowledgeable in the ways of the street experiencing it first hand before she turned her life around and Mrs. Brooks took her in. Neither Luke nor the man who happens to be Jake Russell the sheriff’s deputy realized she replaced the watch in the blink of an eye. Livy helps Mrs. Brooks at the children’s home and has made it her mission in life to reach out to the street kids and get them off the street. A lot of things are changing in the little town of Chestnut. A Glove Factory opened in some of the older buildings close to the mine. Street kids are running rampant in the little town and burglaries are on the rise.

Luke is an important character in the book. Luke and his brother Mark had found themselves in some trouble in Chicago for stealing. Expecting to go to jail Luke was quite surprised when money exchanged hands and he suddenly was placed in a wooden crate with three other boys and it was nailed shut. The crate along with others were placed on a train headed to Chestnut to the Glove Factory. However when the crates arrived Luke was able to escape from his captors, thus finding him on the streets of Chestnut. Luke made it his mission to find his brother Mark and help the other street kids. Little did he know Livy O’Brien considered him her mission.

Does Luke ever find his brother Mark? Are the kids on the street committing the burglaries? Does Livy ever fess up to Jake that she was known as Light-Fingered Livy O’Brien on the streets of Chicago? Is there a reason the kids started appearing when the Glove Factory opened its doors? Do Livy and Jake ever realize they are both attracted to each other? Find the answers to these questions along with others in the book Stealing Jake.

This was quite an enjoyable book. I love a book where I can feel what the characters are feeling and Pam Hillman did a wonderful job creating this in her story. I did not want to put it down I wanted to continue reading. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a fast moving read. This was my first e-book.

This book was made available to me for free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

until next time... nel

Time for Hodgepodge...

2011-08-03T00:47:00.001-05:00

I am so excited I get to join in on Wednesday Hodgepodge this week I am actually at home. Woo Hoo! Surely you remember how to do this, just read all of my answers, and then you can click on the button above and be transported over to Joyce’s corner in blog land. She is in charge of this fun meme! Join in you know you want too!

1. Share a favorite song lyric.
Oh Joyce, you should know I could not just go with a lyric. The song that takes me back in time and plays in my head quite often is Simple Things by Carole King. It is a very good song!

Simple things mean a lot to me
Some things only children can see
Simple things like horses running free
And easy acceptance of life.

Simple things never compromise
All things have a rhythm I can't realize
I feel content in my freedom
And I feel my freedom is right

I never want to stop being a child
I want to see the flowers growing wild on the hillside
To see the sun rise in the morning
Sunlight growing, filling the skies

Simple things of the earth don't die
They just grow and change as time goes by
There are no questions without answers
I've found my answer to life is living
The secret of living is life.

2. When was the last time someone yelled at you?
It has been awhile probably 4 months ago, Stan’s niece that lives with us and I had a heated argument to put it lightly.

3. Money, fame, happiness…are they mutually exclusive?
No I don’t think so, money and fame does not buy happiness. Usually wealthy famous people are not truly happy and are very lonely. There is only one thing that can provide true happiness, and that is having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

4. What is your favorite dish to prepare for family and friends that doesn’t require turning on the stove, oven or an outdoor grill?
A nice big salad with all kinds of ingredients is always good especially during the hot summer. Of course a frozen yogurt pie works real well also.

5. The first week of August is National Simplify Your Life Week. What is one thing you could do this week to simplify your life? Will you do it?
They come up with all kinds of special days and weeks these days. It is strange, but I really cannot think of anything that I could do. My life is just pretty simple! No wonder I like the song in #1.

6. On a scale of 1-10 how tuned in are you to your country’s national political scene?
I am ashamed to admit but probably a 5 or 6. I am just not into politics; they are going to do what they want to anyway. Before you start griping at me, I do vote and at that time I do read and research the candidates and find out what they say they believe in and stand for before I make my decision.

7. What are your final parting words to the month of July?
It was a fun ride and I am ready for cooler weather.

8. Random Thought…
My head is full of random thoughts; it needs to slow down…lol. I guess the one I will share here is: I am so happy and so proud of my husband Stan. He has smoked since he was a teenager and he is, well let’s just say he is older than me…lol, and he did not buy any cigs this month. He is using an E-cig that we purchased while in Florida. I am so happy and excited for him. I can only imagine how hard that is, but the E-cig is helping. He said it tastes like a cigarette but there is not the smoke smell. In fact I like the way it smells. It will take awhile, but I am sure he will feel so much better. Please remember him in prayer! WTG sweetie!

until next time… nel

Where did the summer go...

2011-08-01T13:55:00.002-05:00

It is hard to believe it is already the first day of August! Time just keeps slipping by. There were so many things I wanted to work on this summer, but hey they are still there and I will get a round tuit one of these days....lolol.

I am so excited, I mean super excited. As most of you know I read books and do reviews here on my blog. A month or two ago I received an email from BookSneeze stating they were offering tickets to the Women of Faith Conference in the city of your choice. They had a limited amount of tickets for bloggers who review. This was something I have always wanted to attend and entered my name and basically forgot about it, didn't think anymore about it, until... While we were in Florida I received an email stating I was a blogger that had been selected to receive two tickets to attend the conference. Yes, as in free tickets, all I have to do is blog about it twice, once before and once after the conference. I am so psyched! But most of all blessed! Naturally my first thought was asking my daughter to join me, but unfortunately with her health situation and all the time she has been off from work she did not feel like she could make a commitment, so my next choice was my sister-in-law Carol. She was as excited as I was. So for two days in November we will be worshiping and praising the Lord and having the time of our lives. My hubby and my brother James will be joining us in Kansas City and they are going to pal around while we are at the conference. Actually that is kinda scary...lol. I am sure we will all have a wonderful time. And I am sure I will have a lot to blog about!

We had a wonderful time in Florida, the grandkids were so much fun! I will share about our trip later in the week.

until next time... nel

BOOK REVIEW: The Lady of Bolton Hill

2011-07-28T22:02:00.002-05:00

The Lady of Bolton Hill by Elizabeth Camden takes place in Baltimore, Maryland in 1867. The two main characters are Clara Endicott and Daniel Tremain who become very good friends even though they are from different sides of the tracks. They have one common love, the love of music, piano playing and Chopin.

Clara’s father was a very well known upper class Reverend at Bolton Hill. Daniel’s father was from the lower class east side of Baltimore and he worked in the steel mill until the day he died. A boiler blew up and took his life even though Daniel tried his best to save him. This made life difficult for Daniel because he was now responsible for him mother and sisters’ welfare and safety.

Daniel coaxed Clara into meeting him the night of his father’s funeral to play music with him at the Conservatory. She was his only ray of hope, his only way of escaping reality. Clara had to break the news to Daniel that her father was sending her to England.

After Clara left for England and was not returning his letters, Daniel made it his life long mission to make Alfred Forsythe the owner of the steel mill to pay for his father’s death. Daniel became a very wealthy powerful man who also had powerful enemies. Clara became a journalist who provided a voice for the underprivileged finding herself in trouble and difficulties including landing in jail.

Will Clara and Daniel ever find each other again or will Clara be disappointed in the man she finds? Will Daniel’s enemies ever turn against him? Will Clara help Daniel Tremain and Alfred Forsythe work through their past differences using her journalistic abilities? Find the answers to these questions along with many others in this wonderful novel, The Lady of Bolton Hill.

This is a very well written book that kept me on the edge of my seat wanting more. I recommend this to anyone who likes a fast paced book!

You can listen to an interview with the author, Elizabeth Camden, and read an excerpt from the book here.

I received this book free from Bethany House a division of Baker Publishing Group as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

until next time... nel

Greetings from Panama City Beach

2011-07-22T01:08:00.001-05:00

We are having a wonderful time. The kids are having a blast. Thought I would share a few pictures with you. The sunsets have been awesome, how can anyone not believe in God? This week has gone by too fast, we will head home Saturday morning. All I can say is it has been wonderful, nothing like making memories...

She just thought she had to be buried.

This is the Sea Screamer that we rode on.

until next time... nel

Missing Hodgepodge....

2011-07-13T11:07:00.000-05:00

We are on the road again. In Arkansas then off to Florida on Friday. We are taking the grandkids with us, making memories! Please remember my daughter Janice in prayer. She is wearing an Event Monitor for her heart for 14 days and she has a Tilt test scheduled for Monday. Please pray that the doctors can figure out what is going on and she will begin to feel better. This has been going on for almost 4 weeks. Also praying that with the kids gone for a week she will be able to get some much needed rest.

until next time... nel

Summer Hodgepodge...

2011-07-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

It is that fun time of the week again - Wednesday Hodgepodge. If you would like to join in click on the button above and just hop to it! Joyce does a fantastic job of picking our brains and making us think. It is a great way to make new friends, so what are you waiting for? Oh wait you need to read my answers first, you know you want too!

Here they are:

1. What is the most useful book in your house?

I would say the Bible, other than that I would have to say the little book I have my account numbers, user names and passwords written in. This poor little brain can't always remember them.

2. What's worse being too hot or too cold?

I would have to say too hot. You know there is only so much you can take off and get by with it. You can always add more clothes if you are cold, so yeppers I would have to say too hot.

3. Share something that made you smile this past weekend.

We went to the office supply store and my hubby bought me a laptop. I am sooo excited and I was definitely smiling.

4. How do you like your hamburgers? Or don't you?

I love them grilled. We have been adding a little dry Ranch salad dressing mix to them and oh are they ever good! Then put a little Miracle Whip, tomato and onion and sometimes cheese, mmm good!

5. What's your summer beach read?

I just finished an e-book titled Stealing Jake, working on The Boy Back From Heaven, and I have two more in shipment from publishers. I love to read!

6. How was your birthday celebrated when you were a kid?

I remember having a couple of parties with friends from school but usually it was just family. We usually had a cake and ice cream and I got to choose what supper was. In teen years I usually had a sleep over in our basement with 5 or 6 girls from school. Fun Times!

7. What's something that is totally uncool that you love anyway?

Wow, this is a hard one. Okay I am going to fess up, I enjoy the soap Days of Our Lives. Yes I know, but it has been one of those that I grew up with. I have watched it off and on my whole life I guess. Enough said.... lolol.

8. Random Thought...

I have so many thoughts it is scary sometimes, but my main thought has been on my daughter this week. She had her Echo and Stress Test done and Praise The Lord they did not show any problems, besides a mildly prolapsed valve, nothing to worry about. She found all of this out Saturday and of course being a holiday weekend they did not discuss it completely. He did say that they would schedule her for a Tilt Test, because they had to find out what was going on. However today she received another call and the cardiologist told her to make an appointment with her GP because her thyroid levels had dropped and it needed to be checked first, and could possibly be causing all of her problems. Bless her heart, not long ago she started attending church again, an answer to prayer, and now this is happening. I just pray that this is the root of her problems and they can correct it with medicine and life will be good! Praying and Believing!

until next time... nel

This says it all...

2011-07-02T15:13:00.002-05:00

I seen this on facebook and I just wanted to share...

I think this about says it all! Have a wonderful 4th of July and be safe!

until next time... nel

BOOK REVIEW: Max On Life

2011-06-30T15:12:00.001-05:00

Max Lucado has written another wonderful book called Max On Life. This book gives us Max’s God based input on a variety of subjects. Throughout Max’s ministry he has been faced with questions of his own and of his fans. In this book he has taken 172 of the most common questions and answered them to the best of his ability using the Bible as his basis. The book is divided into seven areas: Hope, Hurt, Help, Him/Her, Home, Haves/Have-Nots, and Hereafter. Each section has numerous questions that Max has answered and has included examples or scripture from God’s Word. Included in the back of the book is a Topical Index and a Scriptural Index along with a special addendum called The Write Stuff which is geared for wanna-be writers.

I highly recommend this book. There were several questions I had been pondering and it was good to read Max’s input. This book will hold a very special place in my library. It would be wonderful for a devotional book or could be used for a group study. Don’t let this one pass you by!

To get a sneak peek of the book click here.

To visit Thomas Nelson Publishing click here.

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishing as part of their Book Sneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

until next time... nel

Another Hodgepodge...

2011-06-29T00:01:00.001-05:00

Wow, where did this week go? I can't believe it is time for Wednesday Hodgepodge already. We would love for you to join in, just click on the button above and hop over by Joyce, she does a wonderful job with this meme! You will be glad you did and remember to link up so we can all enjoy your answers!

Here are mine...

1. What makes you stand to your feet and cheer?

There are several things that have that effect on me. If there is a parade: a flag passing or veterans passing does that for me. Also, just last Sunday at church a man sang "There Is A River" without music and he was amazing. You could feel the spirit and we stood and clapped.

2. What's your favorite patriotic song?

God Bless America. I love this version by Martina McBride. You can listen to it here.

3. Do you believe that opposites attract? If you have a significant other are you opposites?

Yes I do. We have a lot of things we are the same on but a whole lot that we are opposite. For example: I tend to be organized, him not so much; He is always early, I am usually on time or a few minutes late; I read directions, he asks: It had directions? So yeppers I would go with opposites attract.

4. You're going to get a behind the scenes look someplace... where would you like that someplace to be?

This is a hard one, I really can't think of anything. Maybe behind the scenes of a movie set or a concert.

5. How far would you have to travel to ride a carousel(merry-go-round)?
I would think probably the closest one would be Branson. I am sure they have one at Silver Dollar City. Branson is 57 miles from our house and Silver Dollar City is on the other end of town.

6. When was the last time you seen fireworks? What was the occasion? Do you enjoy fireworks?
The last time I seen them was last 4th of July with my sweet hubby. We love watching them and always take our chairs and join the crowd in our little town.

7. Of all the beauty products you own what item do you consider to be the most overpriced?
Moisturizers, a good moisturizer is always overpriced in my book. They know we will not live without our moisturizer!

8. Random Thought.
This has been a crazy week. My daughter has not been feeling well and is having a few tests tomorrow, an echo-cardiogram and a stress test. Please remember her in prayer.

until next time... nel

BOOK REVIEW: Plain Wisdom

2011-06-24T18:00:00.000-05:00

Plain Wisdom written by Cindy Woodsmall and Miriam Flaud invites us into the lives of an Old Order Amish and an Englischer. This book gives the ladies a chance to share their views and their hearts on different subject matters. Some of these include: The Rhythm of Life, Timeless Beginnings, Challenges Great and Small, among others.

Both women realize that even though their lives are different we are all faced with the same trials and obstacles in life. These ladies become close friends despite the differences in their lifestyles. Throughout the book Miriam has included several Amish recipes that look delicious.

This was a good book but it was not quite what I expected. I felt like to many different areas were covered, making it hard to understand and follow what was going on.

I received this book free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing as part of their Blogging for Books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Hodgepodging Summer...

2011-06-22T00:01:00.002-05:00

Once again it is time for Wednesday Hodgepodge. If you would like to join in click on the button above and head over to Joyce's world. It is a fun way to meet some great blogging friends.

So here is mine:

1. What is your favorite sight, sound, AND smell associated with summer?

I think as far as sight, I love to see families out walking together, or at the park together. It seems during summer people do more activities together. I love the sound of the ooohhhs and awws from the crowd watching the fireworks display. Everyone just seems so in sync, too bad we can't stay that way and get along. There are so many smells I love, the smell of freshly mowed grass, barbecues fired up, a summer rain.

2. Fireflies or lightning bugs... what are they called in your neck of the woods?

We call them lightning bugs. Nothing like seeing a field full of lightening bugs!

3. What is something from the past week that reminded you of your childhood?

We passed a peach orchard on our way to Kansas City last Friday and that reminded me of childhood. Mom always canned peaches, they were the best. We would always go to the orchard and get at least 2 bushel baskets full. They were so good, we had to eat on them while she was canning. She always made sure they were "Freestone Peaches.' They were much easier to remove the pit. mmmm good stuff!

4. Define 'the good life'.

I think I am living the good life. We have a roof over our head, food in our freezer, and the man I love most by my side. My daughter is only a phone call away and my grand kids are the best, what more can you ask for. The only thing better is waiting for the other side, and the streets of glory.

5. Tell us what we'd see if you took a snapshot of your desk/work space?

An organized mess... enough said! lolol

6. Peaches or watermelon... yes you have to choose.

Since it is summer I will say watermelon. I love watermelon! We were talking about peaches when we passed an orchard the other day... hmmm there is my answer to number 3. I can go back now and answer that one. lolol.

7. Ever been skinny dippin?

Well I didn't call it skinny dippin, I called it chunky dunkin. There has never been a skinny bone in this girl's body. And yes it was fun, you will just have to believe me, no details here!

8. Random Thought.

I am getting excited about our trip to Panama City. I know it is going to be hot, but cannot wait to walk the beach looking for shells and taking pictures. We are staying in a cousin's condo right on the beach. Can't wait to see the look on Eden's face when she sees all that sand and water. Janice and her family are joining us. Memories in the making!

until next time... nel

Passing Through Filley...

2011-06-19T15:29:00.002-05:00

First of all, I would like to wish all the Dad's out there a Happy Father's Day! Today is always bittersweet for me, I had one of the best Dad's there were and have wonderful memories, but I sure do miss him!

Friday we made a trip to Kansas City and spent the night and drove home yesterday. My hubby had some union business to take care of. He enjoys seeing old working buddies and catching up on each other's lives in general. Kansas City is only 3 hours from our place but on our way home we always take the scenic route. This always proves to be interesting and gives me several good picture taking opportunities. Little towns intrigue me.

This trip we happened through a little town called Filley. I quickly asked him to pull over before we missed it, so I could take a few photos. You know some of the towns if you blink they are gone, and believe me I am not making fun, I love little towns. I sure do get some strange looks when I am out taking pictures at times. There were a couple of men that came out on the porch of a building back the other way, I just kind of waved to them and kept taking my pictures.

This was one of the main buildings in Filley. It looked like it was probably a little store and gas station at one time. Well pretty obvious a long time ago, look at the old gas pump in front. I couldn't help notice the pony on the side of the building. I bet this was a hopping place once upon a time, but now just an abandoned building. If you really use your imagination, you can almost hear the screen door slam as the attendant comes out to pump the gas. There were two or three other buildings also.

This was a sign over a pavilion close to the station. It said Filley Community Park, as you can see the tree has grown a lot since the sign was put up.

Here is the Community Park. It consisted of hand made tables and wooden benches. A lot of work and determination went in to building all the tables and benches. The community probably had a work day and they joined in and made it a fun time. That does not happen much anymore, kinda sad, now you have to hire someone to do the work. At one point in time I bet this was a busy place, the hustle and bustle of the women getting the food ready for the community picnics or potlucks, and of course the sound of the children's laughter and excitement. But now, it looks deserted.

Just beyond the Community park was this old barn. As many of you know I love old barns, and this one was no exception. This barn had so much character, if it could only talk, the stories it could tell. I am sure it has seen a lot of activity in the little town of Filley over the years.

It was a fun day, I love exploring and thinking about what might of been. Thanks for going on my journey with me.

until next time... nel

"Let me pass through thy land: I will go along by the high way, I will neither turn unto the right hand nor to the left." Deuteronomy 2:27

Hodgepodge Again???

2011-06-15T00:01:00.000-05:00

It is that fun time of the week, time for Wednesday Hodgepodge. If you would like to join in, click on the button above and jump over by Joyce and get the original questions, then of course don't forget to link up so we can all enjoy your answers. It really is a lot of fun and a great way to meet new blogging friends. So without further hesitation, here we go:

1. What is one thing on your bucket list? If you don't have a bucket list let's pretend you do.

I would think almost everyone has a bucket list, maybe not an actual written list, but a list in the back of your mind of things you would like to accomplish. I have several, but she just said one... hmmmm. I would love to go on an Alaskan Cruise. Talk about pictures...lolol.

2. What makes a good dad?

I think it is more than making a good living for the family, because not all dads are able due to health issues. I think it is the feeling of security, knowing they are there no matter what. Someone who spends time with his family and loves them and enjoys them. Someone who shows his kids that their mom is a special woman. Someone who listens, and directs without being overbearing, who gives their honest opinion, but does it in a way that shows love. Someone who leads them spiritually also and puts God first.

3. Are you afraid of insects? Which ones?

Not so much, as long as I have my handy dandy wasp spray that shoots from long distance. Although there is one type that gives me the heebie-jeebies. June Bugs... yuck! I hate those things, if they are around the door, I will make a mad dash to get past them. And lo and behold if one lands on me, I will have a runaway. Just saying...

4. We're barbecuing... what's on the grill at your house?

Actually, we are barbecuing tonight (Tuesday), and it would be hamburgers. I love burgers on the grill however, my hubby is getting pretty good with those steaks too. Mmmmmm good!

5. Do you believe that playing is more important than winning?

Yes I do. It doesn't matter who wins, what matters is taking time to do something together.

6. Do you tan? Use self-tanners? Visit tanning salons? See your dermatologist at least once a year?

No, No, No, No. I burn even when I use sunscreen. I probably should try the self tanner, however my skin is so sensitive, it would probably cause problems. And the salons are out, pacemakers usually do not like those kinds of machines. I probably should see the dermatologist, I have problems with a dry scalp and eczema on the back of my neck.

7. Five years ago I would never imagine that today I would ______.

...be married again and living in Missouri.

8. Random.

What happened to Spring? We went from cold weather to summer... I have been busy but did I miss something?

Well... that is it for this week folks. Have a good one!

until next time... nel

Random Monday....

2011-06-13T23:31:00.000-05:00

Just thought I would stop in and let you know I am still around. It seems like I am meeting myself coming and going. It was a busy week and this week is about the same.

We made a trip to Kansas City after we found a car we were interested in. We really liked it, so we brought it home, that was an all day trip. It is a 2004 Cadillac DeVille DHS with only 68,000 miles on it, one owner, clean, a few little nicks and scratches on the outside but not bad, beautiful, and loaded.

We were very happy with the dealer also. They went out of their way to make sure we were happy, including the goody box and we received a Thank You card today. What really impressed me was it is family owned and they are closed on Sundays. You do not find that much anymore. So far we are really enjoying it.

Our old car, bless her heart, I named her Betsy, she was a good car, but has over 186,000 miles and as much as we travel we needed something dependable. She is a Cadillac Deville also, my hubby has a thing about his Caddy's, and I must agree they are nice riding vehicles. He has spoiled me with them. I used to want a VW Bug, not so much anymore. lol

I am still working on my photo blog, it is a slow process. Thanks to all of you that have been checking it out. I really do not have it up and running and I have already had over 500 visitors.

Thursday night we are having supper with a couple from our church. I am sure it will be a fun night. It is always nice to spend time with Christian friends.
Friday we are headed back to Kansas City, Stan has some union business to take care of. We will spend the night and then come home on Saturday. It is always nice to get away for a night once in awhile.

Next month we are back on the road again, birthday celebrations in Arkansas, then off to Florida for a week. Panama City, I cannot wait, it should be a lot of fun. And I am sure I will find something to take pictures of. Ha-ha!

until next time... nel

Wednesday HodgePodge...

2011-06-08T00:16:00.001-05:00

It is hard to believe it is Hodgepodge time again. They say time flies when you are having fun... I must really be having some fun! Cause it is flying! After you enjoy reading my answers (you know you will) click on Joyce's button to get all the questions and to link up. We would like to read your answers also (you know we do). And here we go...

1. Do you and your family enjoy camping? What do you enjoy most/like the least when it comes to family camping? When was the last time you camped?
I grew up camping and as Janice was growing up we went quite often. I think the closeness that sitting around the campfire brings is one of the things I always loved. Probably the last time I camped was around my birthday in 2000. Lots of memories, good and bad. Nowadays our camping consist of an EconoLodge or some kind of motel. Rough stuff...lolol.

2. Did you attend a summer camp when you were a kid? Is that a happy or not so happy memory?
No, I always wanted to go, but never was allowed to go.

3. Over the course of your life, what have you probably spent more time pondering than anything else?
Why adults mistreat children mentally or physically.

4. Which of the seven natural wonders of the world would you most like to see?
I have seen the Grand Canyon but would love to go again, and go completely around it and even down in it but not walking or by burro. lolol

5. What was your first real job?
I worked at A.O.H.A. (American Osteopathic Hospital Assn.) between my junior and senior year, then again after I graduated. We published their magazine and put alot of meetings together. I was the gopher and chief flunky... and loved it!

6. Lemonade or Sweet tea... which do you prefer on a hot summer day?
I love Sweet Tea, I am from the south. All though, homeade fresh lemonade can't be beat either. My mom used to make the best!

7. What is something that always brings a smile to your face?
Talking to my daughter or my grandkids. Eden Jade saying Granny I love you, or singing our song, You Are My Sunshine!

8. Random Thought...
Sorry I have two... First of all is anyone else having problems leaving comments sometimes. I cannot leave a comment on Joyce's or a couple other blogs. It just keeps going to the log in page. Just wondering.
And ... I would like to invite all of you over to catch a glimpse of my new blog N Fast Photos. It is a work in progress. I have got the greeting cards loaded on the Anniversary, Birthday and Congratulation pages along with Inspirational Posters. Would love to have any comments or suggestions. Thanks to those who have already ventured over there! Appreciate your sweet comments!

until next time... nel

Catch A Glimpse...

2011-06-05T21:27:00.000-05:00

Hope all of you had a wonderful weekend! We are enjoying life in the Fastenau household. Life has been kind of quiet lately, so I have had time to work on my photo project. I am no where close to being done but I had to share it with my bloggy friends and family.

So Here Is Your Chance... Hop over to NFast Photos, leave me a comment so I know you have been there and share with me what you think. Hope you enjoy!

until next time... nel

Wednesday Hodgepodge Once Again...

2011-06-01T00:01:00.002-05:00

It is Hodgepodge time again, that fun time when we all have to answer these wonderful questions that Joyce comes up with. I have no idea how she does it! If you would like to join in just click on the button above and you will be transported over to her corner in Blogsville where you can get her list of questions and of course link up. You know before you leave though, you want to read what was on my mind this week, well here it is:

1. Have you ever been to the US Capital - Washington DC? If so what's your favorite site?

Yes my husband had to make a trip to DC for Union business three years ago. It was my first time, what an experience! I was lucky a friend of mine worked at the National Archives, so she gave me a personal tour, what a treat! Very impressive, I would love to spend some time there researching. The whole city is just full of history and I don't think it ever goes to sleep. It is so hard to pick just one site. I loved seeing the Capital, we did not get to take a tour, but just from the outside was spectacular. The monuments were wonderful but the Viet Nam Wall just grabbed my heart.

National Archives under construction.

White House

I wanted to know why all the lights

were on at 10:00 p.m.?

This one grabbed my heart!
I am sure they were looking at a relative's name.

2. When did you last attend a wedding? Are there any weddings on your summer calendar? Were you a summer bride?

I guess the last one I attended was mine in September 2006. That has been awhile...lol. I do have a nephew getting married this summer, but I will not be able to be there.

3. What is your favorite way to eat strawberries?

Either fresh out of the garden or sliced up with a little sugar on them, and cake and whip cream could be added. lolol.

4. What is one thing you are especially looking forward to this summer?

We are making a trip to Florida. We have a condo (thanks to my cousin) for a week. Right on the beach at Panama City. My daughter and family are joining us and my partner in crime Kathy is supposed to go with us. I cannot wait till Eden Jade sees all the sand and water... Hoping we get to make a day trip to Disneyworld while we are there...not sure.

5. Do you use/like the self-checker at the grocery store?

I have used it a time or two if I am in a really big hurry. I prefer to use the line with an attendent. If we get to reliant on self checkers and such people's jobs might be cut, that is just my opinion.

6. Share a favorite piece of common sense advice.

Don't sweat the small stuff! And it is all small stuff unless it is life or death! We have to remember God has it in control!

7. Barefoot, flip flops, tennis shoes, sassy sandals, your first coice for summertime?

If I am at home I am barefoot! (I lived most my life in the south, what can I say?) Otherwise sandals.

8. Random

I have been working on another blog trying to get it together. It is for my greeting cards and posters. There is so much that goes into it, especially if you want to prevent pictures from being taken. I will let you know when it is up and running!

HAVE A GREAT WEEK!

until next time...nel

Random Thoughts on a Sunday Afternoon...

2011-05-29T16:35:00.001-05:00

This is just a Random Post. It has been awhile! Sorry for all the book reviews, I had to get caught up. We have limited internet while in Arkansas, so things tend to get behind. We had a wonderful time in Arkansas, it was so good to get away and enjoy our kids.

What a beautiful day God has given us! The sun is shining, it is 88 degrees out, if the wind was not blowing it would probably feel quite hot. What a wonderful day!

We are grounded at home for a little over a month unless short little trips come up. We might actually get a few other projects caught up.

I have a picture I want to share. This is my Aunt Maxine with Eden. My aunt is the youngest of my mom's family and the only one we have left. She was 86 this year, don't tell her I just told the world how old she is. She is a very special lady and we get such a charge out of her. She still lives by herself next door to her daughters, and is still driving. While in Arkansas I made homemade pizzas and had her and one of her daughters over.

Eden loves her Aunt Maxine and was so glad to get her picture taken with her and was happy to spend some time with her. Bless her heart, believe it or not Eden's hair had been combed, it is so curly especially if it is humid. She will probably hate it when she reaches her teen years.

On one of my other posts I mentioned the doll house that I have that was my mom's. I took a couple pictures of it while we were at our home away from home.

This may not seem like much to a lot of people, but I consider it an heirloom. This was my mom's, her dad made it for her. I am not sure how old she was when he made it, but I do know it is over 72 years old because he passed away in 1939. I was told he made it from an old piano. The door even has a little handle on it and it is attached with little hinges. I am not sure about the rocking chair that may have been carved by one of the uncles, but every southern porch has to have a rocking chair.

When I look at this house I wonder what my grandpa was really like. I know I have heard stories, not good ones, he was an alcoholic, but when I see this house I know in my heart he had a soft side also. The patience and skill it took to build a house like this tells me alot. I wish I would of asked my mom more about it, like why did he decide to build her a house? And how old she was when he gave it to her? I treasure the dollhouse like I know my daughter and her daughter will eventually, something special to pass down through the ages. I also have the old kitchen table that he made along with the bench that my mom sat at when growing up. Memories...

I hope you are having a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!

"I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands." Psalm 143:5 KJV

until next time... nel

Book Review: I Shine NLT Bibles

2011-05-28T21:15:00.002-05:00

The I Shine NLT Bible is geared for the young person. The boys’ bible is a dark blue with a guitar-playing boy embossed on the front. The girls’ bible is two shades of pink with a bouquet of stars and sparkles and three girls embossed across the bottom. They are both made of soft leather-like material and are the New Living Translation, which makes it easier for the Tween to understand.

Following is a list of three sections taken from these Bibles.
They are:
Section 1: You have Value. What matters to you? You are created by God and he cares – you can’t get more valuable than that.
Section 2: Who are you? Your identity is not just about who you are but whose you are.
Section 3: Why are you here? What’s your purpose?

These bibles also have a wonderful section in the front that deals with finding your identity in Jesus and a section with different things the Bible talks about. There are approximately 78 different headings with anywhere from one to four different scriptures and subheadings explaining and discussing the different subject matter. These bibles seem very kid friendly and will be easy for them to understand.

My grandson is nine years old and I cannot wait to give him the boys’ bible. He is at the age where he is asking questions and curious about things. I believe he will love it.

I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

For more information on the Tyndale Website click here

until next time... nel

FYI: I gave this bible to my grandson last week, he loved it. He told me he was going to carry it in his backpack so he can read it on the bus. Nothing like making a grandma proud!

BOOK REVIEW: Nick of Time

2011-05-28T20:17:00.001-05:00

What a wonderful book. Tim Downs managed to capture my attention throughout this book and the ending totally blew me away. I did not want to put it down. Now that I have said that, let’s get into the story.

Nick Polchak is a strange sort of character; his colleagues call him the Bug Man. He is a Forensic Entomologist; he studies the bugs on decomposing bodies, determining the time of death. Believe it or not he does have a fiancé, Alena Savard; she is pretty much a recluse, living on a mountain alone with her dogs that she trains as cadaver dogs to find human remains. She also trains them to sniff for drugs and bombs and trains tracking dogs, along with security dogs.

Alena is all about planning their wedding and expects Nick to participate in these plans. However, Nick is having a problem thinking about all of these preparations, they are making him crazy. A week before the wedding Nick needs to leave town for a day to attend a Vidocq meeting in Philadelphia. The Vidocq Society is compromised of over seventy forensic specialists and detectives who help with cold cases. Nick received a special invitation from an old friend Peter who requested his presence; he needed his help with a case he had been working on.

All of this did not help the way Alena felt about his leaving a week before their wedding. She was not happy with his decision to leave and even questioned his love for her. Nick had a present for Alena, a cell phone, so they could talk to each other while he was gone. Their plans were to talk at 9:00 every night; Alena would have to come into town since there was no reception on the mountain.

At the meeting Nick was congratulated by all his colleagues but Peter, who was not there. Following the meeting Nick drove to Peter’s house. Nick found everything quiet, almost too quiet, Peter’s car was in the garage but he could not rouse anyone to the door. The only thing he found was blowflies, the kind that collect when there is something dead around. Nick immediately called the police.

Is Nick’s friend Peter really dead? Will Nick be able to help with the investigation? How about Alena will she receive a call from Nick at 9:00? Will Alena track Nick down? Will Nick make it back in time for his wedding? Will there be a wedding? Which is more important to Nick finding his friend’s killer or marrying his fiancé? Find the answers to these questions and oh so many more by reading Nick of Time by Tim Downs.

I highly recommend this book!

I received this book free from Book Sneeze a division of Thomas Nelson as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

You can read more about this book here.

until next time... nel

BOOK REVIEW: Paradise Valley

2011-05-27T21:20:00.007-05:00

Life is quickly changing for the Amish in Eastern Ohio. Part of the Amish life is work on the farm; there are many chores to do from gathering eggs to milking cows, feeding all of the animals and then of course gardening. The Amish belief was what needed to be learned came from the parents and the farm along with God. However, the government in Ohio began to see things differently, thus passing the Bing Act requiring all children ages 6 – 18 to attend public school 5 days a week, with the exception of a work exemption at the age of 16.

Five Amish fathers were taken to jail because they refused to send their children to the public worldly school. After a week in jail these same men were brought before the judge and asked how they pleaded, they were then asked to sign a paper stating they would send their children to public school and they refused. The judge sentenced them to sixty days.

With the fathers away from home the rest of the family had to take up the slack. In the Bender household the girls had to work alongside their brother. Rachel was working in the field beside her brother when they saw an Amish boy running towards their house. Rachel recognized him as Jake, the boy she was secretly fond of. They decided he must have been bringing important news so Aaron being the oldest sent Rachel to see what was going on. Unfortunately, it was not good news; the sheriff was making his rounds, taking the school age children into custody and placing them in a home. Rachel and two of her sisters were taken to the home along with other Amish children, from that moment on their lives began to change.

When the Amish fathers heard of this they decided they had no choice but to send their children to the public school, it was the lesser of two evils. The children along with their fathers were allowed to return home, providing they started attending school. The school was nearly three miles from the Bender home, but if they timed it right Jake and Rachel could walk to school together. They were becoming quite fond of each other but had to keep quiet about it because they were not dating age yet.

Caleb Bender was at a loss of how to get his family passed these hardships that they had encountered. He tried his best to follow God’s leading and one day after praying about it he turned and there it was; a flyer staring him in the face with the words: MEXICO – Land for Sale – Paradise Valley – 5000 acres of prime flat fertile farmland. Caleb felt like this might be his answer so he promptly went to talk to the land broker. Everything seemed to good to be true including the fact there was no public school system, a dream come true.

Will Caleb Bender uproot his family and travel across country to Mexico? Will any of the other Amish families follow? Will Rachel’s sister Emma marry her beau Levi and travel to Mexico? How will Rachel react to leaving Jake behind? Will they ever find each other again? What perils will the Amish families face in traveling to Mexico? Will Paradise Valley live up to its name and description? Find the answers to these questions and many more in Paradise Valley!

This is a great book, a lot happening throughout the book, very fast paced but easy to follow! I recommend it to everyone.
To read an excerpt of Paradise Valley click here.

I received this book free from Bethany House a division of Baker Publishing Group as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

until next time... nel

BOOK REVIEW: Larkspur Cove

2011-05-26T16:51:00.000-05:00

After living in Houston for years Andrea Henderson finds herself coming home to Larkspur Cove across from Moses Lake, Texas, an area familiar to her but completely foreign to her son Dustin. Andrea is trying to make a new life for her and Dustin after a painful divorce; unfortunately her new job requires daily travel into godforsaken areas leaving Dustin on his own. Andrea trusts Dustin on his own; he has always been a good responsible young boy, however divorce does sometimes have a negative effect on children. Andrea realizes exactly what kind of effect it is having on Dustin when Mart McClendon the game warden shows up early one morning after Dustin had been in some trouble on the lake. Dustin did not quite tell his mom just how much trouble he was in or what his choices of punishment were. Andrea and Mart find themselves on the same side of the law when they begin searching for the identity of a homely little girl who is keeping company with the town recluse.

Will Dustin ever recover from his parents’ divorce or will he find himself in constant trouble? Will Andrea and Mart find the identity and the truth about the little girl? Does Mart ever face his painful memories that he has been running from? Do Andrea and Mart ever find happiness again? Find the answers to these questions and many more in Larkspur Cove by Lisa Wingate.

I enjoyed this book. It was a very fast paced book and there was a lot going on. It was hard to put it down.

You can read an excerpt from this book here.

If you would be interesting in purchasing the book directly from Bethany House click here.

I received this book free from Bethany House a division of Baker Publishing Group as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

until next time... nel

Book Review: Amish Prayers

2011-05-26T01:08:00.001-05:00

Beverly Lewis who is a fantastic author of Christian Fiction and Amish Fiction, has compiled a devotion book titled Amish Prayers. These prayers have been translated from the German prayer book Die Ernsthafte Christenpflicht that Amish and Mennonites both hold as precious possessions even today. With each prayer is a bible scripture that is relevant to the prayer. The prayers are conveniently divided into categories such as: Prayers for Comfort, Prayers for Strength, Prayers of Humility, Prayers for Unity along with eight other categories.

This book is well organized and beautifully illustrated. It is a wonderful devotional for personal use or group study. It will be an asset to any library, I am glad to have it in mine.

I received this book free from Bethany House a division of Baker Publishing Group as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review.

You can see an excerpt from the book and purchase the book from Bethany House here.

until next time... nel

Hodgepodge...

2011-05-25T00:26:00.000-05:00

It is that fun time again where Joyce gives us a random list of questions and we answer them to the best of our ability. If you would like to join in click on the link above and slide over to her spot in blog land so you can join in on the fun. It is a great way to meet new friends.

Here is my version:

1. What is something about living in this country that you value? This country is whatever country you call home.

I think one of things I value the most above everything else is our freedom to worship the way we want. Little by little we are seeing changes but hopefully we will always be able to worship our Lord and Savior.

2. What is a favorite something you own that is red, white, and/or blue?

I would have to say my flag. I cannot pass a flag without taking a picture, to me it represents what we are about. I get upset when I see someone not respecting our flag.

3. Do you fly a flag at your house on patriotic holidays?

You betcha! As long as it is not raining.

4. What ingredients do you think should be included in a great picnic basket?

It does not have to be extravagant. We have had a lot of wonderful picnics by throwing a loaf of bread, Sam's chicken salad, chips, and a few cookies, along with plates and a spoon in the basket and taking off for the day, of course we put the salad and cokes in a cooler. Or even mayo, bologna or turkey and cheese in the cooler with the basket ingredients makes a great quick picnic. If you are with the right person it does not matter what is in the basket... just saying!

5. What is one interesting piece of trivia you know?

My brain is not working tonight, that is not my piece of trivia, just a fact. Sorry can't think of anything.

6. Wednesday, May 24th is National Escargot day... have you ever tried them? Eww or ohhh?

Can't say that I have or that I am going too. Yuck!

7. What is one thing that you know for sure?

I probably should of waited and answered these questions on Wednesday morning after a good nights sleep. My answers may not make a whole lot of sense.

8. Random thought!

We need to remember the people that have been affected by the tornadoes this last week. Joplin is 70 miles from our house, a little close for comfort. We need to pray for everyone involved. The seasons seem to be shifting, the weather is changing...we all need to read our bibles and pray for those who do not know the Lord as their personal savior! Enough said.

until next time... nel

Wednesday Hodgepodge...

2011-05-11T00:02:00.002-05:00

It is Hodgepodge time, if you would like to join in just click on Joyce's button above and it will transport you over to her corner of blogland, there you can find the prompts for this week. However, you know you want to read my answers to her wonderful questions first, right?

Here we go:

1. How many times in your life have you moved house?

Wow, since I was a baby 11 times. By the time I was in 3rd grade we had moved 3 times. When I was 22 years old I moved to Arkansas, stored my belongings and stayed with my aunt and uncle for 6 months. Then I rented an apartment in town for about 18 months. My parents were then moved to Arkansas and I put a small trailer on their property. After marrying and having my daughter we purchased a doublewide and moved it in where the small trailer was. Years later we bought a house that was probably 3 miles away and moved there. After my daughter married and they were able they bought my house and I moved back to Appleton in my mom's house. My kids and I switched houses. Then shortly after I married Stan, I moved to Willard, however most of my things are still in Arkansas, at our home away from home. I never moved a great distance but sometimes I think those short moves are the worst because it seems like you never get completely done and it takes forever.

2. What subject would you study if you had a year to devote to it?

This is a hard question, decisions, decisions, decisions. Probably genealogy. There are so many places you can find information. I would love to be able to go to the National Archives and take my time and do research and learn where to look things up.

3. What in this world breaks your heart?

I hate when I see parents with young children and they are short with them, or walking and almost dragging the kids. We live in such a busy society, it is so hard to make time to enjoy life. Kids are only small for such a short time and parents tend to think I will have time tomorrow, and before you know it tomorrow is gone and their babies are no longer babies.

4. What is one item that symbolizes the times in which we live? Why?

Computer or internet. Look how far we have come! Almost everyone is exposed to a computer of some sort. And the internet blows my mind at what and how much is available, good and bad.

5. Share a favorite bumper sticker or t-shirt slogan.

Hope is faith holding out its hand in the dark.
This too shall pass...
There are no strangers here, only friends we haven't met.

6. How do you like your spaghetti?

I really prefer Angel Hair spaghetti and I like to put my own sauce on the noodles and then top it with parmesan cheese.

7. What is one piece of advice you would give a recent, or soon to be recent, graduate?

Believe in yourself and always believe in God! Treat other people like you would want to be treated. And remember everyone starts somewhere. Don't be afraid to step out in faith.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

We have attended two graduations of our grandkids this last week. Eden Jade graduated from preschool and Michael, Stan's grandson graduated from college. We had a wonderful time at both events and was glad we got to spend some time with family. Stan actually had 3 other grandkids graduate this year, Jennifer and Tim along with Tim's wife Jackie. I looked at his grandkids and it made me realize how quick time will pass before Eden and Cain are their age. Here are a few pictures we took.

Our Preschool Graduate - Eden Jade

Eden and Mawmaw, Granny and Nanna

Leave it to my kids...

Michael after getting diploma.

Michael - Glad it is over

Stan and the 3 graduates - Jennifer,

Michael and Tim Price

Good looking group of kids if I do say so myself. Wish Tim's wife Jackie would of been there to be in the picture, then it would of been complete.

Another random thought - Please remember my husband Stan in your prayers. He has been having problems with his knees and we found out he has severe arthritis in them. He will begin cortisone shots tomorrow. Please pray that these will help and he will find some relief and comfort.

until next time... nel

Graduations Galore...

2011-05-05T14:32:00.001-05:00

We are in Arkansas, believe it or not Eden Jade is graduating tonight from Preschool. She will be a kindergartener come September. Where does the time go? I am sure a few pictures will follow.

We are headed home tomorrow then off Saturday morning to Kirksville MO for another graduation. Stan's grandson Michael is graduating from college, since it is closer to home we will be able to attend!
Stan's granddaughter Jenny, grandson Tim and his wife Jackie all graduated from college. Unfortunately they were in Utah and we were not able to make the trip. We will get caught up on Congratulations shortly! We are proud of all of them!

After a few days of resting at home we will be off and running back to Arkansas. Decoration where my Mom and Dad are buried is the 15th. Plans are already made to be there and visit with family we do not see all the time.
Life is good and I believe Spring is finally here, what more can you ask for?

until next time... nel

BOOK REVIEW: when sparrows fall

2011-04-30T22:19:00.000-05:00

Miranda Lambert has found herself in quite a predicament. Her husband, Carl, had a nasty fall off of the roof two years ago and left Miranda the sole provider for their six kids. His life insurance and charity from the church keeps them afloat, and Miranda sells a photograph from time to time, even though she has been reprimanded about such things. Pastor Mason always seems to keep her in line, with threats or comments about her losing her children. The last time being at a meeting called by the pastor after the other widows left, Miranda informed him she and her kids would not be moving when the church did, needless to say Pastor Mason was not pleased. She did not believe it was God’s will for her to leave Slades Creek. On top of all of these two weeks later Miranda has landed herself in the hospital, she took quite a fall off of the cliff behind the house while trying to get a picture. Her oldest, Timothy found her and called the ambulance. Timothy also found the letter his mother had previously told him about in case anything happened to her.
Timothy did as the letter instructed and called Jack Hanford. Jack was Carl’s half-brother; Carl had run Jack off when he stopped to visit. At that time Jack had met and visited with Miranda and the two kids, then Carl came home. Now this letter was saying that if anything happened to Miranda Jack was left guardian of the kids. He was overwhelmed and Timothy was scared. Jack instructed Timothy that he would be there as soon as he could get there.
Jack found quite a few surprises when he arrived, the main one being there were six kids instead of two. Jack quickly realized life was different for this family. They dressed differently, they did not attend public school, they were not aloud to read fiction, they had never been to the library, they did not know what Frosted Flakes were, they had never ate out and those were the most obvious differences. He felt these kids were being deprived all to succumb to a religion or was it a cult? Does Miranda recover and make it home? Does Jack overstep his bounds by introducing these children to the real world? Do Pastor Mason and the church back off or do they try to cause problems? Can Jack reach Miranda or does she detest him for interfering? Read when sparrows fall to find out all the answers to these questions and many more.

I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It kept my interest and I wanted to see what was going to become of this young family. I fully recommend it.

To read an excerpt from this wonderful book click here.

To read information about Meg Moseley the author click here.

I received this book free from Waterbrook-Multnomah Publishing as part of their Blogging for Books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

until next time...nel

BOOK REVIEW: DEEPER into the WORD

2011-04-29T15:33:00.001-05:00

Deeper into the Word by Keri Wyatt Kent is a welcomed addition to my library. This book is a wonderful study guide for the New Testament. The author has taken 100 words from the New Testament and studies the words in depth looking first at their original language and then delving farther into the actual meaning. At times when necessary the author will revert to the Old Testament to understand fully the meaning of the word. In the contents she lists the 100 words that is studied and the Greek index is in the back along with a list of helpful Web Sites.

Whether you use this book as a Study Help, for Reference or a Devotion to read, there is a lot of valuable information inside. This little book can give new meaning to the passages in your Bible, by fully understanding certain words bringing them to life.

A valuable asset to everyone, Keri Wyatt Kent did a fantastic job, do not pass this one by.

To read an excerpt from the book click here.

Click here to go directly to Bethany House Publishers.

until next time... nel

The Real Hodgepodge...

2011-04-27T00:03:00.001-05:00

It is that fun time of the week when we get to answer all kinds of random questions. Joyce at From This Side Of The Pond does such a good job hosting this meme. If you would like to join us just click on her button above and you can get the questions and then link up so we can enjoy your answers too. Of course you want to read mine before you do all that, right? Sure you do!

So here we go:

1. What is something that bothers you if it is not done perfectly?

You know to tell you the truth I never have considered myself much of a perfectionist but when I started thinking about this question I guess I am to a certain point. I couldn't tell you how many seams I have ripped out when sewing only because I could see the mistake, no one else would of probably even noticed, but I knew it was there. Then there is crocheting, I have been known to rip out a lot of rows just because I do not like the way it looks. The other situation that crosses my mind is balancing the checkbook. I have spent quite a while just looking for a few pennies. It has to balance to the penny before I stop looking. Usually I am jumping for joy because it balances the first try, but sometimes... So I guess that is my main three things, and maybe I do lean towards the perfectionist side. hmmm who would of thunk it?

2. What is one of your best childhood memories?

I think our family camping trips. I was probably around 8 or 9 when we started camping. My mom's two sisters and their families would also camp. We would set our campers up in a big circle and have a big campfire in the middle. Most of the time there were 5 or 6 campers. Usually each family would do their own cooking but sometimes we would put it all together and have a potluck. We would roast marshmallows at night and sometimes hot dogs on the fire. We also made pies. The sisters all had pie irons, that you used buttered bread with a spoonful of pie filling and when you shut them you cut the crust off. You then would brown them on the fire. Oh were they good, we would sometimes do pizza filling, those were also delicious. There were several different campgrounds around the state that we enjoyed. Such good memories...

3. Do you plan to watch the Royal Wedding and when was the last time you wore a hat?

No, the Royal Wedding really does not interest me, to much glitter and glitz. It was probably in the 70's when I stood up in my best friend's wedding. We wore big floppy hats with a train of tuille and flowers.

Of course I remember when I was little we always made a trip to Arkansas in May for decoration where grandparents were buried. I always got a new dress for that occasion and usually always had a hat.

4. Where do you fall in the birth order in your family? Do you think this has influenced your personality?

I am the youngest of three and the only girl. Now why on earth would I think that had an influence on my personality?

5. Where do you think you spend most of your money?

Probably at Sam's Club. We go once a month and stock up on our groceries and staples. We also have started buying our meat there, and have not been disappointed so far.

6. When you need to confront someone would you rather communicate in person, on the phone, by email or by letter? Why?

In person, you can tell a lot by peoples eyes and their actions!

7. Dodge ball, freeze tag, kickball, or jump rope? You have to pick one.

Gosh we played them all, all the time. Probably jump rope. We used to play jump rope on the playground and under the street lamp at night. Double Dutch was the most fun!

"I like coffee, I like tea,

I like (name inserted) to jump with me.

It was fun to see how many could jump at the same time.

8. Random Thought.

I am so tired of rain, I am sure everyone else is too. Arkansas has been hit pretty hard with thunderstorms and tornadoes. I talked to my daughter tonight, they were all okay, even though there were a few scary moments. Praise The Lord they are safe. The sun will shine again!

until next time... nel

Easter...

2011-04-24T00:03:00.001-05:00

HAPPY EASTER!

Can You Imagine...

2011-04-22T00:01:00.001-05:00

It is time for Flashback Friday, if you would like to join in click on the button above and get the complete prompt from Linda. Its that wonderful time of Easter and our prompt this week concerns the real reason we celebrate Easter.

I have often sat and read the story in my Bible and pondered over everything. Can you imagine how Mary actually felt when she went to the tomb and he was no longer there. Wow, usually I end up wiping tears when I really start thinking about what Jesus really did for us. I want to share something that took place back when I was Youth Leader while my daughter was a teenager. I am not sure how many of you have ever heard of "The Great Passion Play" at Eureka Springs, AR., you can click here for more information. I have watched the play numerous times and each time see something I had not seen before. If you are ever in Arkansas I highly recommend stopping in here, you will not be sorry.

Okay, back to my story, one of our visits to the area I made arrangements with the directors for my teen youth group to be extras in the play, if they wanted to participate. We divided them and participated on a Thursday and Friday night. My daughter was one of the participants, all of them played villagers. There were mentors for every 2 kids. My daughter and a friend actually were able not only be part of the crowd, but they were able to wave the palms when Jesus came into town on the donkey. She said "It was strange mom you know it is a play, but it is so real, you feel like it is really happening, that you are really there." And later when Jesus is tied to the post and they are beating Him, she said she wanted to yell, "Stop, stop." She said she actually teared up. There were several different scenes they were in and it definitely had an impact on those kids. So I can't help but get emotional when I am studying His word and thinking about all He went through just so we can have a home in Heaven! What an awesome God!

I Hope All Of You Have A Wonderful Blessed Easter!

until next time... nel