Living 4 HIM2

It's MOVING DAY

2010-03-14T00:01:00.000-06:00

Hi all,

I will no longer be posting here on this blog - I am moving to http://living4him2.com/ I purchased the domain name and I am combining my blogs in one place. But don't worry - they all have distinct areas!!! You will also find my former posts and new ones on this NEW and IMPROVED blog!!! The freebies including the CU Blog Train are there too!!!

To celebrate, I am having a BLOG PARTY - be sure to check it out!!!

KJOI Studios Mothers Day CU Freebies Blog Hop

2010-03-06T00:24:00.000-06:00

Hi all - we are doing a CU blog hop for you! Our theme is for Mother's Day - kind of early, but we want to help you to be ready for it in May....

Please check out each of our blogs - and grab these wonderful CU items....

1. Panda Bear Designs- http://pandabeardesigns.blogspot.com/
2. Katlens Kreations- http://katlen124.blogspot.com/
3. Sandez Creationz- http://sandezcreationz.blogspot.com/
4. Lizard Dau Designs- http://liz-lizarddaudesigns.blogspot.com/
5. Dragons Lair Designs- http://dragonslairdesigns.blogspot.com/
6. Lori Imel- http://living4him2.blogspot.com/
7. Digidesigns by Amberbaz- http://weallhavetostartsomewheredigiscraps.blogspot.com/
8. Designs by Angel- http://scrappingwithangel.blogspot.com/
9. Scrapz 'N Bitz- http://scrapznbitz.blogspot.com/
10. Ayu Ravenwing- http://ayu-dark-dream.net/AyusScrapping/

Here is mine...

Download here

I hope you enjoy this great blog train!!

You Are Loved!

2010-01-25T10:37:00.001-06:00

Do you know that you are precious to God? Do you know that He LOVES YOU?
GOD DOES LOVE YOU! He sent His only Son Jesus to die on the cross for your sins. When did He do this - while you are still a sinner. We did not earn this love, we can do nothing to deserve it. God did it! He loves you so much that HE provided a way for you! Jesus paid the debt for YOUR sin - by dieing on the cross.

We are so precious to God! He loves us so much that He wanted to fix this broken relationship with us.

Have you trusted this truth - that Jesus died for your sin - so that you can know God? You can be forgiven of your sins. You can know God's great love for you. Just believe that Jesus died on the cross for your sin. He is God's Son - who loved you so much that He was willing to die on the cross for you. But He did not stay dead - He rose from the dead and is now in heaven preparing a place for us - so that we can live forever with HIM!

I praise God for His great love!!!
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I just realized that I need to do my MONDAY's MOTIVATION

So here is a list of things I need to do...

* Reflect God's LOVE to everyone around me...
* Make some new file folder games
* Finish Quiet Activity Book (3 done)
* Make some Valentines cards
* Do at least 3 LOs
* Have fun with my kids!!!

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8)
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I am so amazed by God's love - how He takes care of us. We are precious to HIM! It makes me want to share HIS great LOVE with everyone!!! This includes my kids....

I have been having so much fun creating File Folder Games with my youngest! My husband and I have been blessed with 9 wonderful children. Each one of them is precious to us. They are loved by God! So how do we treat them? Do we do everything as parents (Mother's specifically) and nothing for our own families? We are all busy either making LOs, or designing kits, or taking that special photo... BUT are we taking the time to do things for and with our kids???

So lately, I have been making these fun and creative games for my 2yr old. She is loving that I am making something for her! I think of her as I am creating these games. I think of what would appeal to her - what she would enjoy - but yet I am thinking how it will challenge her ever growing / learning mind. I also homeschool my kids - we will be graduating our 3rd oldest this year!!!

So here is one of the games I have recently made.... Time To Play....

I am having so much fun creating these games from the paper packs / kits that I have made, along with the clipart that I have been purchasing from DigiWebStudios. It is so much fun producing quality games for my kids to play. So I have also made them available to you at my store at KJOIs!

After she played the game, I realized I should have added a pocket for the cards... SO here is a pocket for the cards. Plus if you are making this for a gift - I have made you a greeting card and envelope. It is great for any occassion!!! I hope you enjoy this little freebie - and sample of the work I am doing.

Download here

The above matching game is about sports - your kids will match the sports item, with the child that is playing that sport. This is a fun visual discrimination game!!! I hope you enjoy making this fun game for the wonderful children in your life!!!

What Should Life Be Like?

2010-01-19T11:23:00.001-06:00

Hi all - So what should our lives look like? This passage is really neat - some new things hit me, as I read it today....

19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God. 21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. 22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.
26 If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. 27 Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.". James 1:19-27

vs19-20 Are we really taking the time to really listen to others??? Are we being patient?

vs 21 We are to remove all evil (sin) from our lives, and receive the Word. Jesus did it all - He paid the price for our disobedience - He died on the cross for OUR sins - so that we can live in HIM! He SAVED our souls!!!

vs 22 We need to be doing - God's will. How do you know what HE wants us to do - we need to read HIS Word - daily. We need to live a life that is pleasing to HIM

vs 23-24 WOW! Something in these verses just struck me.... the last phrase "goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was". Does this refer to our sinful nature? It is not that he forgets what he looks like - but is this a mirror to our soul? We can take the time to look at what our life really is like.... but then we get busy with life and forget about what we just learned....

vs 25 We need to surround ourselves with God's Word - read it daily - listen to it - in song - have it written on the walls of our houses. We NEED to remember!!! HIS law is perfect - it gives us freedom!!! How will we be blessed? In what we do. What are we doing? What God has commanded us to do?

vs 26-27 These verses show us a bit about our everyday life. 1st if our words don't match what we are trying to do - then it is useless. I have heard that it takes so much more to correct 1 word said in haste.... We need to be careful what we say and how we say it.... We can hurt people so bad by what we say..... It all goes back to verse 19....

In the Bible times - the orphans and widows were often neglected, they were the ones ignored. We need to pay attention to those around us - if we are truly listening to others - we will "see" their hurting - we also need to respond.....

The last phrase - reminds us to be pure....

This passage is so refreshing and a great reminder on how our lives should look. I pray that my life might reflect Christ in all that I do. Thank you God for working in me to make me a better reflection....
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So I missed a lot of days last week - Wednesday I awoke with a migraine that just would not go away.... In fact, the effects have lasted a lot longer. I am having a hard time concentrating on one thing - or should I say - I am having such a hard time concentrating on one thing - that I cannot multi-task..... LOL hard for a Mom with 9 blessings at home.... So it is taking me a lot longer to get things done.... LOL

So I will do Monday's Motivation (of course Bible Time is my 1st activity of the day)

* Make Quiet Activity Book for my youngest - for church & small group (I have 3 of the 8 "games" finished)
* Homeschool
* Make cards / holders for File Folder Games
* Do at least 3 LOs

So how about a Tuesday Twists???
You will never know what I will have you do.... How about your favorite scrapbook blog / website? Post in the comments section - with your favorite link and I will give you a $1 gift certificate to my store. Post a comment with any of my challenges - and I will do the same. (If you go back thru my posts - please contact me privately - so that I know that you posted a comment in previous posts). This will be applied to my KJOI store.

What ARE Your Plans? Are They Flexible?

2010-01-12T12:27:00.001-06:00

Hi all - well let's try this again.... it all disappeared as I was working on it.... something went wonky....

But is that true of things in our lives - they don't go as we plan. We need to learn, especially as parents to go with the flow - be ready to change our plans as needed. Or we will miss great opportunities to teach our children, or to even meet a need - emotionally or spiritually.

This morning as I was having my quiet time with God, my 2 year old awoke. She settled down in my lap for awhile, so all was fine. But after about 5 minutes she became too distracting. So it was time to change my plans - I know as a Mom of 9 blessings, I need to take care of them. That is my responsibility - that is my pleasure. I look at my children as blessings - even when they are driving me crazy at times.... My 2 year old can be hard to keep up with (I will be 46 in Feb) -- and sometimes I think "how am I going to do it" (raising such a young, active toddler) - but then she will give me that look, or a huge hug - and I Praise God for blessing us again!!!

But this got me thinking about life and it's busy-ness....

The Bible tells us.... Matthew 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, this is the main project that Jesus asked for us to do. Pretty much everything is summed up in this command. So how are you sharing your Faith in Christ??? Who are you sharing your faith with??? Your neighbors next door, down the street; people you meet while shopping; your friends, aquaintences, co-workers, etc??? How about your family??? How about your own children???

Sometimes we are busy doing for everyone else that we forget about discipling / training our children. They are important ones that God has blessed us with - they are precious to HIM as well as the world around us. They should be more precious to us - since they are from our own flesh.... I challenge you to take the time to train your children - to share your faith with them. Let them know why you trusted Christ as Your Saviour!!!

Be sure to do this today, look for an opportunity to talk to your children / family!!!

I Praise You God - for Blessing us with a Wonderful Family!!!

Today is Tuesday's Twists (I just updated the names)..... I challenge you to do a LO - but Journal about your faith / something God has been doing in your life lately. But, here is the twist - make it as a kids LO. Write it to your children - explain it so that they understand it....

I will upload mine later - as we are in the middle of school..... I do things, especially in the beginning of our school day - hanging around if they need help with their math etc.... :)

Here is my LO....

I CAN do it!

2010-01-11T22:11:00.001-06:00

Hello - What a glorious morning!!! God is so good to us!!!

I was reading this section of the Bible this morning and I wanted to share it with you...

Romans 8:28-39 ²⁸ And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. ²⁹ For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. ³⁰ Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. ³¹ What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? ³² He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? ³³ Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. ³⁴ Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. ³⁵ Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? ³⁶ As it is written: “ For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”^[c] ³⁷ Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. ³⁸ For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, ³⁹ nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

What a powerful passage!!! Why do we always stop at verse 28??? There are so many verses that POP out at me today. We can overcome any obstacle that is before us - through Christ! I am so thankful that God LOVES us so much that He CARES about the details of our lives. I praise HIM for helping us through everything that we face in our days! GOD IS SO GOOD!!!
So I have been thinking about this blog and the direction I want to see it go. I also was thinking about the Memes (I may just change the name of that....) SO I think I will try and have a digiscrapping goal/ life goal for each day - I will share mine and hopefully motivate you too....

So today is Monday's Motivation....

Life is so busy - not sure I want to write out all that I do during the week.... especially daily LOL

1. Spend time with God / share something here
2. Share some craft inspiration here
3. Homeschool
4. KJOI Studios
5. Scrap a few LOs
6. Make Hybrid items
7. Homemaking

The list could go on - and in NO way is that a list by priority (except for the 1st one) LOL It started off in order, but then many of those things are interspersed....

Where is MY Treasure?

2010-01-09T10:08:00.001-06:00

“[Treasures in Heaven] "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)

My eyes have been opened again...''

I was leaning forward to change my daughter's diaper and I started feeling whoozy - kind of like when I have had a panic attack in the past.... SO I knew I needed to get out and get a breath of fresh air. So I also went into a quiet cool room and discovered a mess. I almost did not go into that room, because of the mess..... but I knew it was cool and quiet. The mess was when my daughter was looking for a clean towel the other day - there was lots of clean sheets etc in the closet now....

Did I actually know where all of these sheets were? Maybe, maybe not.... To take up the slack, while my hubby was deployed, the kids helped me out a lot.... So now, there are things put in places that I am not so aware of....."

But this also got me thinking about other things.... am I spending too much time with my wheels just spinning? Where is my focus??? I need to rethink my day - what I do and why I do it.... It is a good thing to think about what we do and why we do it??? Sometimes what started off as a good thing has turned into needless things....

I know one thing.... I want to continue sharing from my heart!!!

Here are some sweet verses I read today....

Psalm 65... By awesome deeds in righteousness you will answer us.;

Ps 33:4 For the word of the LORD is right, And all His work is done in truth.

I praise God that He is a GOD of detail!!!

Every Day Living

2010-01-07T11:41:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, I wrote and thought about how I need to come to God and remember daily to rest in HIS arms....

This morning, as I was awoken early, had my quiet time with God, then went back to sleep - I was wondering what I was going to share with you.... as I was getting ready to write, I was still wondering.... LOL so I pulled out my devotional book (I had gotten it to help me to write to you - give me ideas etc and it is always great to have someone else to inspire me with God's word as I share with you...)

Well today's devo was on "Daily Bread", you know from the Lord's Prayer - thanking God for providing our daily bread. This is so significant to me, as we have been experiencing that ALL coming from God.... Also the devo mentioned how God provided daily Manna when the Israelites were wandering thru the desert. God knows that we need to come to Him daily....

Without going to God daily - we can get so distracted.... negative things bombard us daily.... things that take us away from God's Truth.... things that discourage us.... things that frighten us....

When we LOOK to the Master, the One who Created it All, Who Holds ALL things together.... we have a HOPE, a REFUGE to turn to!

I thank GOD so much that HE LOVES us so much and that HE CARES about the DETAILS of our lives!!!

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 5:1-2)

The Truth???

2010-01-06T12:13:00.001-06:00

Hi all,

This morning as I was reading Psalm 62 - I was reminded many times that God is our REFUGE!!! This is such a good reminder - I am praying that I can remember this fact every day.....

Yesterday was a bit rough, mostly hormonal - I have been perimenopausal for about 6 years now and things are happening now.... So I have to deal with emotional ups and downs.... plus hot flashes etc.... But there are always going to be things that distract us from the TRUTH. What is the truth....

John 8:32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

Jesus is the TRUTH! We need to rest in HIM - rest in the REFUGE that HE alone can bring.

Well this morning I just received some not so good news, my father is having a lot of problems and they discovered Shingles. In the course of some treatment, he developed some serious problems yesterday.... BUT.... I am resting in the knowledge that GOD IS MY REFUGE!!!

Resolute to Choose Abunant Life

2010-01-04T20:28:00.000-06:00

Hi all,

What a great day! I started my morning off right by spending time with GOD!!! My goal this year is to grow stronger in the LORD and not get so distracted....

Recently, I purchased the book "Lies Woman Believe", to work with a friend through it. But when I started reading through it, plus through a book we were doing in our cell group - I realized that I have a lot of misconceptions as well..... lies that have seeped in.....

A verse that struck me this morning is...

John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

The question was, Am I living an abundant life? Or am I just getting by? WOW!!! Who wants us to fail? Then enemey / thief. Jesus came to give us life - but more specific, an abundant life..... WOW!!! I don't know about you, but I NEED to draw more on HIM who WILL give me this abundance.

I immediately started thinking about the "Armor of God"....

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age,[c] against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplation for all the saints— 19 and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. Ephesians 6:10-20

We need to be prepared - spending time every day with God - reading & studying HIS Word, praying. Also we should surround ourselves with little reminders of God's Power (verses, music, etc)
Here is a freebie I would like to share with you. To help you to remember to draw on God's strength....

Download here

I pray that this bookmark blesses you!!!

What an Amazing Christmas!!!

2009-12-24T20:03:00.001-06:00

HI all,

I hope all of you are having a wonderful Christmas season. We are so blessed.

But it has been difficult at times.... Well my husband was deployed this past year - so we are very grateful that he is home this year!!! But with coming home and going back to work, we discovered that the money we thought he was going to be making was not quite what we thought.... we could pay all the bills, but not have enough to cover food and gas for the cars. So we have turned this over to God - KNOWING that HE WOULD take care of us.... so we have been waiting for our miracle.... Our options, we thought, were a better paying job or sell our house and move out in the country..... but God has a different plan at the moment....

A few weeks ago, we were given some money for food and that and all of the meat I have been stocking up with from Sam's Club - we have been doing good.... But as time is going on (hubby just found out that he was accepted for the 1st stage of a different job), we were still waiting..... It looked like Christmas dinner was going to be simple.... then out of the blue - gift cards, food and money have been coming our way. We are so AMAZED at how GOD is taking care of us!!! GOD IS SO GOOD!!!

And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

I would like to give back to you, so I have set my store to $1 through the end of the year.... hurry up and catch some great bargains....

Here is my newest paper pack...

Here is a LO and QP I have made for you, using this paper pack...

Download here

I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!

KJOIs Calendar Blog Train

2009-12-04T23:27:00.001-06:00

Hi all,

At KJOIs, a bunch of us got together to make you this great 4x6 calendar for you. Go to each of our sites to get this gift from us to you!!!

Here is my Calendar month for September 2010...

Download Here

Check out Creative At School, the paper pack I made this calendar from...

For the month of December, you can get it for only $1 at KJOIs!

Come check out these blogs for the rest of this great 2010 calendar...

Jan * Panda Bear Designs
Feb * Scrapzn Bitz
Mar * SandEz
Apr * Lizard Dau Designs
May * April Dawn Creations
Jun * Christie CJ's Dreams
Jul * KatLen Kreations
Aug * ice princess
Sep * Lori Imel
Oct * CACTUSmango
Nov * Designs by Angel
Dec * KatLen Kreations

DSD Digital Scrapbook Day

2009-11-06T10:54:00.001-06:00

This weekend at KJOIs we are having a big sale and lots of fun activities....

Come checkout our special challenges, chats, games and more!!!

Take a look at our marvelous Collab kit for this month...

Please come join us for all of the fun at KJOIs...
find out how you can receive a fabulous free Brag Book. Here is
the 1st page - to give you a taste...

Download here

Breast Cancer Awareness

2009-10-26T12:07:00.001-05:00

Hi all - At KJOI Studios, we have gotten together and made this gorgeous charity kit to benefit the Komen foundation to research cures for Breast Cancer.

This is dear to my heart since I lost my Grandmother and Mother-In-Law to cancer. They both had breast cancer, but it eventually went through out their bodies.... Please help raise awareness by purchasing this wonderful kit to help support Breast Cancer Research!!! I know I will purchase it - even though I have it all - I want to be able to support the cause!!!

All proceeds of this kit go to the Susan G. Komen Fund...the shop paypal fees are included too, so every cent goes to them! Here is the description in the shop for you to see what we put together for you:

This kit was put together by 13 designers who want to get out the word on Breast Cancer Awareness. ALL proceeds from the sale of this kit will go to the Susan G. Komen Fund to aid in this cause! For more information, or to donate to this cause directly visit: http://ww5.komen.org/. This kit is for all the mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, cousins, friends, grandmothers, and many other loved ones who have ever suffered from this illness and their families.

It is so important to catch this early...and that is the message we want to get out! Check yourselves, be checked by your doctor, and be aware for those that care so deeply about you! To those that haven't survived this...we will remember you forever!! And to those that have survived this...we are amazed by the strength and courage you inspire in those that are around you...THANK YOU!

This kit includes 71 papers, 113 elements, and 2 alphas. All items are 300ppi resolution, and are jpg/png files. The papers are all 12x12 in size.

There is also a generous coupon added by Kara of KjoiStudios for her shop!

The elements include: 12 frames and frame clusters, 13 flowers (1 of which comes in 3 colors), 15 Word Art, 9 individual Breast Cancer Awareness ribbons, 5 bows, 8 ribbons, 5 tags and journaling tags, 4 butterflies, 4 buttons, 2 bottlecaps, 3 doodles, 3 glittered chipboard pieces, 3 borders, 2 crowns, 2 flourishes, 2 mats, 1 marquisite pin, 1 sparkly tree, 1 butterfly trail, 1 scatter of silver hearts, 1 frilly heart, 1 silver swirlie, 1 Breast Cancer Awareness t-shirt, 1 glitter leaf, 1 photo turn, 1 Hope rock, 1 chipboard piece, 1 rose stick pin, 1 eyelet ribbon, 1 Hope charm necklace, 1 lace clip, 1 ribbon pile, and more...

The alphas are: A distressed chipboard alpha (Uppercase only), and A glittered polka dot alpha (Uppercase, Lowercase, Numbers, and Punctuation).

Here is another preview of this kit - in the form of a Brag Book freebie I have created for you....

Download here

Nothing IS Impossible with God

2009-10-05T22:00:00.002-05:00

Hi all,

This morning in my quiet time - I have been studying the names of God, this mornings was about Jehovah Jirah - My God will supply. I was wondering how God was going to show Himself today. Wow I could not have imagined what would happen as the morning progressed.

So I come downstairs and start my morning - checking my computer, reading emails etc and getting ready to start school. Well around 10 am, I get this phone call from my best friend - she had some interesting news to tell me. Last night, we were talking about my daughter's best friend - we had not seen or heard from her and there might be something going on that we don't understand - none of us know - but it sounds weird. You see, my daughter's 19y friend has lung cancer. Everyone is astounded at how SHE could have cancer - there is no exposure to anything that should have caused it....

So my friend's call was about this young lady. Over the weekend, she was having problems breathing etc, so she went to the hospital - to find out that the cancer was now stage 4 - she now had large masses of cancer in both lungs as well as the outside. The cancer had been shrinking - responding well to chemo. But NOW all of a sudden - they were only giving her 2-4 months to live if she only did the chemo. So they were preparing to take her to Texas to the best Chemo treatment center.

This morning she went to go get a PET scan (for the trip) and the cancer was virtually gone. There is only a tiny bit left that should be cleared up within 2 weeks with Chemo. GOD healed her body - it was there yesterday - it is gone today. Needless to say - we all have had a hard time concentrating today - GOD IS SO AWESOME!!!

Today, as little things / itty bitty trials would come up, I would think - "oh this is difficult".... then I would remember how GOD worked in such a wondrous way this morning. ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE WITH GOD. No matter what happens in my life - I am so THANKFUL that GOD KNOWS and CARES!!! I am thankful that nothing is bigger than HIM!!!

____________________________________________________________________________________

I want to start giving away my scrapbook kits. Today I am offering a sampler from my US Army Forever Remix kit. Come to Faith Scraps and get this free mini-kit and see how you can easily get the full kit....

ADSD Blog Train - School Daze

2009-10-01T22:25:00.002-05:00

Hi all,
I am sorry I am late getting these QP's out. I injured my foot last week and it is slowing me down a bit....
So without further ado, here are my QPs....

Download here

See all of the participants below...

October Participants:
http://magsgraphics.blogspot.com
http://mytreasuredscraps.blogspot.com
http://mydigitalfunplace.wordpress.com
http://ppbits.blogspot.com
http://living4him2.blogspot.com you are here
http://deliscraps.blogspot.com

Construction Happening Here....

2009-09-28T10:16:00.002-05:00

HI all,

I just thought I would let you know - you will be seeing some major changes taking place on this blog....

I will see you soon - with some exciting news.....

There Is Love

2009-09-07T23:31:00.004-05:00

HI all,

Today I want to share with you a LO I made today!

kit - Sunshine Artz' My Little World

With the economy being the way it is, I know there is a lot of people out there whose immediate future maybe shaky.... People losing jobs, money not going as far as it used to, cost of gas, food etc..... Sometimes these things can seem so overwhelming. There is only one place we can go for peace of mind - to God. He is the one who is in control! He knows our needs. He can give us the peace that we need to face the Giants that are before us.

I did a Theme Thursday Challenge over at Hummie's World today. The theme was "Blah" and I wondered how I would be able to scrap something blah. I am generally a cheerful person - resting in the Peace that only God can give. But today, I was struggling. In fact, I was in a pretty "blah" mood. But I did not want to scrap about that.... when I started to look at the kits I had, I knew that I had nothing that was blah either.... So as I was thinking about what I could do, I was listening to my Christ Tomlin CD "Hello Love"...... as I was listening I thought about how the blahs were going away - as I listened to how God is with us in everything we do. When I heard the song above, I knew it was the one I needed to do the challenge about....

I thank GOD that HE IS in CONTROL!!! That HE will take care of us - that HE LOVES us so much that HE sent HIS only Son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins, and that He rose again on the 3rd day and lives in Heaven! I thank GOD that Jesus' death completely paid the price for our sin - which was death. Have you trusted in Jesus - that He died for YOUR sins? Please do so today.... we don't know what tomorrow will bring. This might be your last chance to choose HIM....

Come to Faith Scraps and get these Brag Book pages for free...

I Can Do All Things

2009-08-06T11:55:00.001-05:00

WOW!!! I can't believe all that has happened in the past 2 weeks... I had a tooth pulled - took a week to recover completely; had to quickly replace our large upright freezer; had a really bad migraine that lasted off and on for a week.... and other minor things along with these.... BUT - these things did not get me down - at least not for long - because I was trusting in God (And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28) and I have seen HIS hand in everything that has been happening - HE sure has taken me through all of these things victoriously. I praise God from whom all BLESSINGS flow!!!

How do you react when tough things come your way? (I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength Philippians 4:13)

Here are some things that can help you to stand tall when trials come your way....

Remember that God has no limits - there is nothing He can not do! He is in control of everything.

Remember that God's tolerance HAS its limits - there will be a time when God will say "enough". Are you ready to meet God face to face? Have your trusted Him as your Savior? DO you believe that Jesus died and rose again to forgive you of your sins? Judgement day IS coming.

Remember that these problems in your life have a purpose. God will work through them for good - if you are a believer. Who are they affecting? How are they affecting you? What are you doing in them? The purpose is God's wisdom. ( Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trialsof various kinds, ³for you know thatthe testing of your faithproduces steadfastness. ⁴And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4)

Remember that God is allowing these things to happen in HIS WISDOM which HE could easily remove by HIS POWER. God is working behind the scenes, remember Job??? We might not fully understand the why - it might be too heavy of a burden.

I praise GOD that HE loves us enough to work on us! Think of the refining fire - the refiner heats up the metal to remove all of the impurities. God is doing that in our lives.... allows us to go through trials to remove all of the impurities in our lives.

I pray that you can say with me... "I CAN do ALL things through Christ who give ME STRENGTH!!!"

In honor of my husband being home on R&R, here is a patriotic QP for you...
Come to Faith Scraps to get it for free...

Finally Back

2009-07-14T14:03:00.003-05:00

Hi all,

Well I have been gone for a few weeks - we went to a family reunion in MI. We had a great time - but it is good to be home again. I am also trying to recouperate.... lol My middle daughter is at camp this week - had to get up early yesterday to take her to church... and today I am up early to go to the dentist - I have something going on that is causing me to have quite a bit of pain in my cheek bone....

well I have an appt tomorrow morning with an oral surgeon - to see whether I need a root canal or a crown..... hopefully we will figure this out.... LOL

Sunday's message at church was great! Our music pastor preached - he has such a passion for God - all of our Pastors do.... here is a synopsis of this message....

1st, he spoke on Hosea - about how he redeemed his wife Gomer etc.... I am going to share some of his ending points....

1. When we sin - we are sinning against God. We are spitting in His face - saying "I don't want to do the things you want me to do", "I want to do what I want to do - know matter who it hurts".....

2. When we repent - we must turn away from the sin. Are we sorry that we got "caught" in our sin? Or are we sorry about the sin itself - that we committed it??? True repentance realizes the gravity of what we have done wrong. We must recognize how sin is against God. We must truly look to God - He has given us the means to know how He wants us to live - it is so much better than anything we can come up with.....

3. We must seek forgiveness - through the cross. Jesus died on the cross for our sins. He paid the full payment for our sins. There is nothing that we can do to earn forgiveness - except believing in Jesus, Our Savior.

4. We must recognize God's love for us. Yes Jesus loved us so much that He died for our sins! But that is just the beginning - God has now adopted us as HIS own. He could have just forgiven us and left it at that - but He went the next step..,, we are now HIS BELOVED!!!

Have you realized that you are a sinner??? Do you realize how your sin breaks God's heart? Or have you turned your life over to God ??? - trusting in His Son Jesus - knowing that He has paid the full payment for your disobedience!!! Have you experienced the full LOVE of God??? He is wanting for you to totally trust in HIM - today!!!

If you would like to hear this message in whole - please go here....

Come here to Faith Scraps to get this QP for free...

VBS .... busy busy busy

2009-06-16T17:09:00.003-05:00

Wow last week was extremely busy with VBS - and this week I have been recouperating... LOL I was in charge of the 4-5 year olds... we were one of the biggest classes - 23-25 kids each night.... just imagine that many very energetic kids running around..... LOL

We did have a wonderful week - it was a lot of fun teaching them the marvelous truths found in God's Word!!! We studied... Abraham and Isaac; King Josiah; Mary and birth of Jesus; Peter; Good Samaritan... and we went thru the plan of salvation every day as well as play games and do crafts. Our theme this year was Polar Extreme.... it was fun seeing all those people running around in hats / scarves / winter coats etc in the middle of summer.....

I would like to share with you a simple plan of salvation - it is 5 point so you can use your fingers (we learned this a long time ago from one of our pastors).

1 (thumb pointing down) We all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God - Romans 3:23

2 (index finger sweep away) We are separated from God. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life - Romans 6:23

3 (middle finger in front of index - Jesus taking our place) substitution - For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish but will have eternal life - John 3:16

4 (raise ring finger ) resurrection - Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried and rose again the third day according to the Scriptures. 1 Cor 16:3-4

5 (raise pinky) Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. Acts 16:31

This is a fun way to share the gospel - plus it is easy enough that children can easily learn it. It is something that can reinforce and teach the truth to all.....

Come to Faith Scraps to get this QP for free...

Does Your Life Have Meaning?

2009-06-01T16:27:00.002-05:00

I just love today's verse of the day....

“I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” (Revelation 21: 2-4)

Do you know if you will be there at this wonderful occurance? What is the condition of your heart? (These are my notes from the last 2 weeks sermons at church. I just wanted to share these with you.)

John 2:23-25 (English Standard Version)
Jesus Knows What Is in Man
²³Now when he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many believed in his name when they saw the signs that he was doing. ²⁴But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people ²⁵and needed no one to bear witness about man, for he himself knew what was in man.

Jesus knew what was in their hearts. He knows what is in your heart. Do you truly believe that Jesus died on the cross for your sins?

Here are some things to think about...

Do you have a living heart? Are you living for God? Are you sensitive and responsive to God?

Do you have a listening heart? Do you listen and obey the Word of God?

Do you have a transparent heart? Are you hiding from God because of sin? Or are you confessing your sins to God - keeping current?

Do you have a commited heart? Are you hanging in there - even when things get tough?

What does Jesus SEE in your heart?

This message made me want to examine my heart - make sure that I am being a bold witness to Christ and all that He has done and is doing in my life! We need to make sure that we don't fall into the trap of getting "puffed up" with head knowledge - but to apply what we learn and make it heart knowledge - a part of our lives....

If you don't know Jesus as your Saviour, do you know what is in store for you???

Luke 16:19-31 (English Standard Version)
The Rich Man and Lazarus
¹⁹"There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. ²⁰And at his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, ²¹who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover, even the dogs came and licked his sores. ²²The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried, ²³and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. ²⁴And he called out, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.' ²⁵But Abraham said, 'Child, remember that
you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like
manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. ²⁶And
besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in
order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and
none may cross from there to us.' ²⁷And he said, 'Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father’s house— ²⁸for I have five brother -so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.' ²⁹But Abraham said, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.' ³⁰And he said, 'No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.' ³¹He said to him, 'If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.'"

We find out from this passage - that hell is a place of constant torment and anguish. There is no hope of escape or relief.... There will be constant agony in suffering. There will be total awareness of what is going on - bodily and emotionally - it will not be total oblivion. Hell is TRUTH (you will KNOW that who God is) discovered too late. You will die in your sins - you will take them with you forever - and pay the penalty of sin.... Hell is the place where GOD is NOT. It is not a place you want to go....

But YOU have the CHOICE - you CHOOSE where you will spend eternity..... God has given you a way out - "For God so loved the world (you) that He gave His only begotten Son (Jesus) that whoever (you) believes in Him, will not perish, but will have everlasting life." (John 3:16) God is NOT willing that anyone should perish - that means YOU - He wants YOU as a part of His Kingdom.

Will you choose to follow God's way - believe in His Son today - before it is too late....

Come to Faith Scraps to get this free word art...

Is This Your Life?

2009-05-19T12:14:00.003-05:00

There is so much wisdom in the verse for today. (There is so much wisdom in all Scripture verses....)

James 3:17-18
¹⁷But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. ¹⁸And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

God has given His wisdom through HIS Word - we can discover key things that can help us to live good lives....

Purity - "having no faults; sinless"; we need to live lives that are good, we are "holy" - set apart for God.
Peaceable - "freedom from disputes"; we need to live lives where we are making peace with others - no discord.
Gentle - "kindly or tender nature"; we need to live lives that are kind to others - caring, loving - considerate.
Open to Reason - "willing to yield"; we need to live lives where we don't have to get our own way all the time.
Full of Mercy - "not getting the punishment that we deserve"; we need to live lives that are compassionate to others - we were forgiven of much - we need to forgive others so much more....
Full of Good Fruits - we need to live lives that reproduce - are we sharing the love of God with others???
Impartial - "Free from undue bias"; we need to live lives that is fair, loving towards ALL people - no matter what - this is "unconditional" love in action...
Sincere - " In accordance with truth"; we need to live lives that are genuine, are we Sunday Christians only - or does our love for God permeate our whole lives?

If we are living a life that reflects these principles - we will have a happy good life. We will be living in peace with others - we will see this righteous living reflected in peace.

I am so thankful that God loves us so much that He gives us principles to live by. Our lives are so much more pleasant when we are considerate of those around us. We CAN live happy productive lives - with God's help.

Do you have God's help??? Do you know that God loved us so much - even in our sinful, rebellious state - that He sent His only Son, Jesus - to die on the cross for ALL of our sins??? God is waiting, with open arms to welcome you back - He greatly desires to have a relationship with you! Do you also know, that Jesus rose from the grave - He no longer is dead - He is a living Savior - He is God over all the universe? He knows and cares what is happening to you.

Run home - to the God who LOVES you so much....

Come to Faith Scraps to see how to get this Word Art for free...

What Does Your Life Look Like???

2009-05-17T23:02:00.002-05:00

Hi all,

As I was thinking about this week, it has been a hard one in some ways - but a great one in other ways, I came upon a few thoughts that I would like to share with you....

So what does your life look like? What do other people think when you enter a room / place?

"Oh no, here comes that person that drags others down" - or are you an encourager - are you "giving thanks in everything"?

or

"Oh no, here comes that person who makes fun / insults everyone around" - or are you an encourager - But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved
by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation
through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, 2 Thess 2:13

or

"Oh no, here comes the person who thinks they are the only one who is right" - or are you an encourager - Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." 1 Peter 5:5

Jesus warned us to...

Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." Mt 26:41
We need to be so careful in what we do. Do we bring people down? Or do we lift them up? Do you need an attitude check?

I know I do.... I have been feeling down a bit the past few days. It is hard when you see someone else going down the wrong path - and you want to warn them - but when they don't want to listen... it is so hard. But then, we need to just leave them in God's hands. If we have done our part - then that is what we need to do. (I felt God leading me to talk with this person - and I responded.) But I was reminded this morning, in my prayer time.... in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thess 5:18
So... Thank you God, for bringing to mind, this person that I needed to talk to. I thank You for the strength to talk to this person. I thank you that You LOVE us so much -- that you care about what is happening in each of our lives. I thank you that You are in control - and that you KNOW what is going on. I thank You that You are a GREAT and Awesome GOD!!!
So, what does your life look like? I pray that you can encourage someone today.....

Do you like hybrid projects??? How would you like to make this delightful gift bag set?
For a limited time you can get it for free in the KJOI Challenges. Please come join me in this fun challenge. I made mine for a wedding gift - it was a lot of fun!!!

Being Kind to Others

2009-05-11T22:33:00.003-05:00

HI all,

The verse for today is one of my favorites....

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted,^{forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32}

^{It is a great verse on how we should treat others.

First we are to be kind to each other. This is thinking about other's needs. Being highly concerned with others - being nice to others. It is treating others with respect, friendship, in a loving manner...

Next, we are to be tenderhearted to others. Having compassion towards others. Look at their circumstances and try to understand what they are going through.....

In every caring relationship - we will need to forgive others. Things happen, we are in a sinful world - we will get on others nerves. We NEED to have a forgiving heart - remember God forgave us through Jesus Christ of so much more....

If we follow this simple verse - our relationships will be so much happier! We will be at peace with others. We will have very meaningful relationships....

The most important part of this verse is to remember what Jesus Christ did for you....

He came to earth as a baby....

He grew to be a man....

He was tempted in all things - but never sinned....

He - the spotless Lamb of God - became the payment for OUR sins. He willingly died on the cross to save us from the wrath of God. He became the full payment for us - we can live eternally with God - only because Jesus died in our place.

Have you believed in this wonderful thing that Jesus - the Son of God - did for you?

I thank God that He loves us so much.....}

^{______________________________________________________________________________________________}

^{Come to Faith Scraps and see how you can get this Brag Book for free...}

Forgive Each Other

2009-05-10T23:19:00.002-05:00

Hi all,

The verse for today is....

"If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.” (Matthew 18:15)

It was a good reminder of the message we heard in church today. We have been looking at the Lord's Prayer (disciples prayer). Today was on forgiving our sins - as we forgive those who have sinned against us....

It is so important to keep current with those in our lives. To keep any rifts from becoming big - we need to seek forgiveness and offer it. We should always seek to confess our sins / wrongs to each other and to God. If we are willing to have a humble spirit and apologize.... we will definitely see our relationships grow. Also we won't allow bitterness to grow inside of us.... God is so WISE - He knows how to let us have a better life - in HIM!!!

Have you ever trusted Jesus as your saviour??? Do you know that the penalty for sin is death - eternal separation from God? But do you know how to right your relationship with God? Do you know what you have to do??? NOTHING - you can do nothing to fix your relationship with GOD - but GOD demonstrated His love for us - by sending HIS one and only SON Jesus to die in our place. He died so that we can have eternal life with GOD. All you have to do - is believe that Jesus died for your sins so that you can live.

Have you chosen to believe in Jesus the Christ, The Son of the Living GOD???

What do you do when you are down?

2009-05-09T11:43:00.002-05:00

What do you do when you are down?

Many years ago, I started having "panic attacks". I did not know that is what they were at the time.... I would just get so worried and I would start panicing..... That word describes it so well....
A lot of the time, it was because I was dwelling on some problem and I would just keep thinking and worrying about it.... and then my insides would reak havoc....

How did I combat this with God's help??? I started listening more to Christian music.... especially during these times. I listen to music a lot - I LOVE music. I love singing - I love playing music on piano, violin etc.... (I rarely have the time right now for the latter).... But with a large family, I had gotten away from music a bit.... I was reminded to focus on things of God....

So everytime, I started feeling down, I would turn on my music (or I would ask one of the kids). It does not matter how big a problem it is, or how sad - it does not take long and I am reminded of what a great and powerful God we have....

So this morning - I turned on my music - I needed to refocus.... we have a busy day ahead of us, and I was thinking about this blog post. Here was the 1st song I heard on my Christ Tomlin - "Hello" CD....

Sing, sing, sing
And make music with the heavens
We will sing, sing, sing
Grateful that You hear us
When we shout your praise
Lift high the name of Jesus

What's not to love about You?
Heaven and earth adore You
Kings and kingdoms bow down
Son of God, You are the One
You are the one

You are the love that frees us
You are the light that leads us
Like a fire burning
Son of God, You are the one
You are the one we're living for

Sing, sing, sing
And make music with the heavens
We will sing, sing, sing
Grateful that You hear us
When we shout your praise
Lift high the name of Jesus

What's not to love about You?
Heaven and earth adore You
Kings and kingdoms bow down
Son of God, You are the One
You are the one we're living for

Sing, sing, sing
And make music with the heavens
We will sing, sing, sing
Grateful that You hear us
When we shout your praise
Lift high the name of Jesus

I love the line about God listening to our prayers! So since this week is about prayer - I thought I would share the song with you....

Yes - in times when I am down - I seek out God - because I know HE is the only One who can help me with my problems. He is the only One who will never fail me!!! He is the only One who will love me unconditionally. He is the only One who has power over everything that I may face. He is the only one who could send His one and only Son - to die on the cross - to permanently pay for the penalty of sin - "death" - eternal separation from God.

I PRAISE GOD

What's not to love about You?
Heaven and earth adore You
Kings and kingdoms bow down
Son of God, You are the One
You are the one we're living for

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.” (Romans 8:1-2)

National Day of Prayer

2009-05-07T23:37:00.002-05:00

HI all,

Today was rather busy.... I ended up sleeping later than I planned - my youngest slept fitfully all night... Not sure if she is working on a tooth or not.... SO I awoke about 1/2 hour before our scheduled prayer time (for 24 hours of prayer for our church). I got all 9 kids up in time and even hubby was able to join us on IM. It was such a blessing for us to pray together as a family - even when 1000s of miles separates us....

As I think about this time of prayer, it was pretty special... but it is NOT the only time we pray. Prayer is a part of our lives.....

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (English Standard Version)
¹⁶^{Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, ¹⁸ give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.}

^{We should always pray! There is never a time when we should not be praying - we should in all things go to God in prayer. How can we pray without ceasing, you may ask??? It is an attitude of prayer - always thanking God for what He does - for creation, for safety, etc. As our day goes by, it is recognizing that HE is in control of ALL things!!!}
^{Thank you God for loving us so much!!!}

Meaningful Things

2009-05-06T21:40:00.002-05:00

Hi all,

In my daily devotional, I read John 6:26-27...

²⁶Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. ²⁷Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval."

What are the meaningful things in our lives??? In these areas, what is reflected....

Time??? Money??? Energy??? Think about???

How important are these things? What would you change if you knew that tomorrow was your last day on earth???

I have been really thinking hard about the things that I do and why I do them..... I am so thankful that God loves us and cares about our days. I am thankful that He guides us to do the things that are important.

Are we too busy to invest time in our families lives??? Are we spending time with others??? Are we sharing the Good News???

I pray that everyday, I think about what I do - and that it is of lasting importance....

Come to Faith Scraps to see how to get this template for free...

A New Day

2009-05-04T16:36:00.002-05:00

Today has been busy.... I am making new goals of things to do each day...

Here are the new goals I started today....

* Pray before getting out of bed
* Read / Pray before going downstairs
* Exercise on the WiiFit
* Start diet - using Sparks People
* Blog everyday
* Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day - I am at 7

Some of the above took a bit longer - especially the diet stuff. I needed to figure out what I was going to do.... I ended up creating a new account.... and spent awhile looking around and earning points.... LOL I also started posting at Grace Today a wonderful weight loss forum... I have been there off and on since 2004. I actually lost 70 lbs over there, but I gained back some with my youngest....

We had an awesome service yesterday at church! Watch my blog for some radical changes in my life.... I am really excited about what is going to be happening, but it might be happening slowly.... This is a week of prayer at our church - Thursday is National Day of Prayer - we will have someone praying for 24 hours from our church... We took a slot for our whole family to join together.... hopefully my hubby can join us to through the internet during that time....

We also looked at the Lord's Prayer - a model for us to follow...

We are to pray to Our Father - it is an intimate relationship - the word in Hebrew means "draw near"

We are to Hallow His name - God is Holy, we should recognize who He is!

We are to come to Him in submission - Your will be done - we should joyfully, willingly surrender to God's will.

We are to pray for our needs - the words in the prayer mean - "enough for the coming day"...

How often do you pray??? Everyday??? How often during the day???

The Bible tells us that we are to "Pray without ceasing" and Philippians 4:6
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;

What a great GOD we have that He desires to know us intimately. That He wants us to talk to Him - He wants to help us in all things!!! He wants you to pray for the biggest requests down to the smallest details!!!

I am so THANKFUL for such and AWESOME and LOVING GOD!!!

Yesterday I made this picture / mini poster to go on my wall beside my bed. I still need to hang it up...

You can download it here

Since this is prayer week, here is my Be In Prayer, Remix kit....

You will find my kit here.

2009-04-29T12:00:00.002-05:00

What Is My Focus?
What is My Focus??? Why do I do the things that I do???

“Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross!” Philippians 2:5-8

Jesus gave up HIS all to come to earth to be a servant. He is the God of the universe - He created the world and all that is in it.... He did NOT have to choose to do this.... but HE DID!!! He gave Himself to die on the cross for our sins!!! He loves us so much that HE CHOSE to do this.....

SO what am I to do with this knowledge???

First I must accept / believe that Jesus died for me! He offers me forgiveness for all my sins - all of the bad things I have done. All we need to do is accept his forgiveness - we don't need to DO anything - just believe!

Now that I believe - what am I to do???

Spend time getting to know this wonderful Savior! Find a good church that preaches the Gospel - the Good News about Jesus - that encourages the believer to actively share this Good news, a place to worship (appreciate) God for what He has done, a place to learn about God through His Word - the Bible....

Spend time getting to know this wonderful Savior through personal Bible reading and prayer. God gave us wonderful minds - to think on Him. To discern the truth about Him! We have the ability to think and meditate - to understand Him. We must use this ability by reading the Bible - daily is so important. God has given us the Bible - a gift of love - so that we can get to know Him! We must read it! We must seek to understand it's words.... not just skim over it and call that "reading". We must read to understand - love the words of the Bible.... So we should think on it (meditate) - bring its truth into our lives. Live by the Word of God.... Desire to do God's will - as revealed through the Bible.

We also need to pray to God. Share with Him all of your concerns / needs. God wants you to talk to Him - share with Him. Think of Him as your "best friend"- accept HE will NEVER mistreat you. He will ALWAYS be with you - be there for you! He loves you so much that He died for you. What greater love is there, than this??? He has your concerns foremost in His mind - HE DOES care for you greatly!!! God wants to hear from you.

I pray that my life reflects Jesus....

So how am I doing? What is my purpose with this blog? My blog motto is... "A Little Bit of God in Every LayOut"- Am I fulfilling this goal? Am I being a good witness to those around me? Am I making a difference in people's lives?

As I reflect on these things - I am thinking of how I can improve in these areas. I think that my "free time" can get so bogged down with designing kits that people may or may not buy. I have been contemplating so long on how to make a difference / impact in the scrapping community. It is so easy to get "caught up" in all that is going on around us.... I have seriously been thinking about "formally" quitting designing so that I can focus more on the important things - spreading the gospel through my scrapping and hopefully inspiring others to do "A Little Bit of God in Every LayOut"....

The one problem I have encountered is that I LOVE designing. I have almost quit at times - but yet I go through these down times and come out more inspired in different areas. SO how do I accomplish the above goals and still design. Give out freebies is a good thing.... but I don't just want to be a "freebie" junky enabler.... LOL I WANT people to use the "freebies" they get - not just stock up on freebies and never use them.....

SO how can I inspire you to scrap? Actually I would like your responses! I would love to know what would help you to scrap more!

Also, please pray for me - that I can find a healthy balance with my scrapping time!

Thank you,
Lori

The World Around Us

2009-04-23T08:38:00.002-05:00

I LOVE spring!!!

We live in the midwest - we have snow in the winter - it gets cold etc.... So when spring comes - it is so refreshing!!! The brown grass turns green - the plants start to bloom - and my tulips appear. I love God's creation! He gave us so many beautiful things to look at.

One summer, as we were driving through the back-roads in Nevada / Utah - I was amazed at all of the different scenery. I marveled at how God did not make the world mundane.... He gave us mountains, hills, valleys, deep valleys etc. - and that is just the ground. Take a look at all of the different plants, trees, grasses etc that there are.... You would not believe all of the different varieties we even have in our yard - and we do NOT have a huge property. Take a look at all the animals.

Take a look at all the people - God made us unique! We are made in the image of God. He loves us so much that He made us this special world that we live in....

The Bible verse for today is Romans 1:20...

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.

All of this wonderful things I have been talking about - are not here by accident - they are proof that God created them. This beautify could NOT have just developed by chance - they are made by an intelligent Creator - God!!!

As you look at the wonderful things in nature that GOD has created - I hope that you can praise Him!!!

Even more precious - is how God views you! He sent His only Son to this world - to die in your place so that you can live forever with God! Have you trusted in Jesus as your Savior? Do you believe that He died on the cross for you? Do you know that the penalty for sin is death - and the only acceptable payment - is the blood (death) of Jesus? But do you know the BEST news of all? Jesus did NOT stay dead - He arose from the grave 3 days later - because HE IS GOD!!! He was the perfect payment for our sin!!!

Please accept Jesus' free gift - of taking your place / payment today - while you still have time! You will never know what tomorrow might bring - and it may be too late....

Come to Faith Scraps to get this tulip CU item...

A Busy Life

2009-04-21T15:29:00.004-05:00

Hi all,

Wow April has been really busy. I am not sure if you know, my hubby is deployed - so I am trying to keep up with everything while he is gone. We have 9 kids - I homeschool, design digi-scrap kits etc - so sometimes life gets very, very busy! That is just normal everyday life.... but when we are having to deal with little crisis - ie about $1000 in van repairs - life gets crazy.... LOL

But through all of these crisis etc - I have been doing well this month. What is the secret of my success - a relationship with Jesus Christ! I know that God is in control - no matter what happens - I see God's hand. He provides friends to help replace car parts - safety in getting home etc. I know that whatever happens that God is with me - and He loves me.

Today in "Keys For Kids" - we were reading about the firm foundation we have in Christ. When we believe that Jesus died on the cross for our sins - we have that firm foundation. When the storms / crisis come into our lives we can stand firm - relying on Jesus to take us through. We don't have weak foundation - we have a foundation that will stand firm!!!

I thank God that He loves us so much - that He gave His only Son to die in our place - that He walks with us in all of our storms / crisis!!!

Have you trusted Jesus? DO you believe that He died for your sins, so that you can have eternal life with God? God loves you so much that He does not want for you to perish! Trust Him today!!!

Come to Faith Scraps and get this template for free...

Getting Back into the Swing of Things

2009-04-01T19:07:00.002-05:00

Hi all,

Well wouldn't you know last week, the flu bug hit us.... Almost all of us were sick throughout the week. So we are recovering - but today I got a pretty bad headache - it is a bit better.....

Monday's Motivation - March 23, 2009

2009-03-23T09:51:00.002-05:00

Hi all,

Well I need to get motivated - so I thought I would make a list of what I need to do. It has been a hard couple of weeks - but yesterday at church really encouraged me to keep on keeping on....

My goals are...
1 Be regular at posting on my blog
2 Catch up with emails (LOL never ending)
3 Scrap at least 2 LOs
4 Get ready for the Digi-Gathering and hopefully go (we may have the stomach flu.... waiting to see)

In my morning devotion, I just read this....

Though many people historically have made great sacrifices for a greater good, and some undoubtedly still do, we are more likely to act as if avoiding sacrifices is the greater good. We seek safety, comfort, security, and pleasure, often at the expense of doing God's will.

Are we looking for the easy life? One with no complications? One that is smooth and perfect?

Yesterday at church the verse that stuck out at me was....

^{1 corinthians 16:9}for a wide door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.

I have been down lately after having a great week. Things seemed to be going great - and then it was like I was being held down. I kind of forgot the truths of this passage. If we are doing something good for God - the enemy does not like it. He does not want God to be victorious. BUT we KNOW the end of the story - GOD IS VICTORIOUS!!!

“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12)

I for one am going to Keep on Keeping On! I am going to get back up and fight the good fight!!!

How about you??? Will you stand up and make a difference for God? Do you know Jesus as your Savior? He died on the cross for YOU - so that you can enjoy this victory that GOD has done!!!

Come on over to FaithScraps and find out about my new venture making clipart and how you can get this tree for free...

St Louis Digi-Gathering

2009-03-11T21:40:00.001-05:00

Have you heard about the St Louis Digi-Gathering??? Hummie has been working hard on arranging this digi-gathering and the response has been low.... that means she will have to come up with the money herself for the people who dont sign up. Yes she did take a risk in doing this... but that was the only way the motel would allow her to reserve the room....

SO I would like to present to you a special deal. I want to help Hummie get enough money or registrations. SO if you would like to meet in person with other digi-scrappers please check out the digi-gathering.

If you are unable to attend would you consider making a purchase at my FaithScraps store. I will give Hummie all of my sales to go towards the digi-gathering.... I so want to be able to encourage her in this way! It is all of my designs Old and New - they are all at $1 each.... Plus for the next few weeks, you can buy my store for $10 - one time download (put all in your cart at this one time).... or for $20 you can buy my store - but you will get 4 times to download (you can get all of my designs, including new items from now until the end of April). I am going to be going through my store adding more things over the next few days - so if you see something of mine elsewhere, and it is not in my store - let me know and I will add it.... I just want to get this sale up as soon as possible.

Here are some of the things you can get at my store....

What kind of Legacy are you leaving?

2009-03-09T17:35:00.001-05:00

What kind of LEGACY are you leaving behind? What will people remember you by? I know that this is an important to us as scrapbookers - as this is our goal in doing LOs - to leave a legacy of our lives.

But what about more important things - spending time with family, making those meaningful moments with our family. Are we so busy scrapping, designing etc that we miss these opportunities???

How about life / death??? Do you know where you will be when you die? Will you be greeting your Saviour - Jesus Christ?

The verse for today talks about this....

“who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,” (2 Timothy 1:9)

God wants a relationship with us - he planned it before the beginning of time.... He knew that we would need a Perfect payment for our sins - anything less would not suffice. So He sent His one and only Son - Jesus - the only perfect one (He NEVER sinned) to die in our place. He took our penalty for sin - our prison sentence (so to speak) - He took our punishment on Himself so that we could live forever with God. Have you accepted Jesus' great love for you??? - He died for YOU!!!

If you have accepted what Jesus is offering to you, what are you doing with His great love? Are you sharing this Good News with others? Are you spreading His great love with your family, friends? Are you sharing your love in your LOs.

Let's leave a legacy that really counts! Make sure that future generations know where you stood in Christ!!!

Proverbs 3:35
The wise shall inherit glory, But shame shall be the legacy of fools.

Speaking of Legacy... Here is a LO I did of my daughter...

Here is the Word Art I made for you....

Download here

If you like my freebies - please leave me some feedback. I want to know whether or not anyone finds these items useful.... THANK YOU!!!

What About Me???

2009-02-27T14:03:00.003-06:00

God is so good.... I should not be surprised when He amazes me so. It is so neat how His Word, from different sources all link together - today.....

The verse for the day...
Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.” (1 John 3:18)

Goes so well with other verses I have read for today.... I am doing a daily devotional in the morning - as well as other things throughout the day - when time permits. I am being so encouraged & empowered by God!!!

I could have titled today's inspiration as - How could God use me? There are so many others who are equipped more than us - know more - studied more.... but God has chosen each of us to spread the "Good News"..... If we look at the Bible Heroes of the Faith - their great deeds they did for God can be so discouraging.... but look again - they each were sinners. They just let God use them in their weaknesses.

A good friend of mine sent me this last night - it really touches home on this subject....

If we truly believe what God says about our VALUE to Him, (more valuable than many sparrows that God clothes & feeds) our lives will be dramatically altered.
1. Believing our great value to God frees us from much hypocrisy.
- The bottom line of hypocrisy is the need for people to think more highly of us than we really are. Let's face it. It's easier to act than to clean up our act.
2. Believing our great value to God frees us from unnecessary fear.
- If we are in His fold and are called His friends, Christ's word to us is this: don't be afraid; you are worth more.
3. Believing our great value to God frees us to acknowledge Him shamelessly.
- If He is not ashamed of us, in all our imperfections, how can we be ashamed of Him, our Redeemer and our Deliverer?
4. Believing our great value to God frees us from the need for riches.
- If we believe our value to God and believe our life does not consist in the abundance of our possessions, why do we have such an abundance of possessions?
5. Believing our great value to God frees us from much worry.
- Christ's remedy for worry is to be like the ravens and lilies--trust God to do His job.
- Am I going to trust my worries or trust God?

I pray that with this FREEDOM you can be BOLD for God - let's spread the Good News that Jesus died on the cross for our sins!!!

Happy Kite was my very 1st kit - it was inspired my an outfit I had for my little girls....

Happy Kite Kit

Have Mercy....

2009-02-26T13:30:00.003-06:00

What is mercy?

mercy = compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power

In Matthew 9, we find that Jesus went to eat with sinners - and the Pharisees started to complain. Jesus was showing these people mercy / compassion - "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners." He was walking the walk - His actions were reflecting what He talked about. He was not being a hypocrite....

The verse for today is... “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” (1 John 4:9)

Are we sharing this good news to EVERYONE around us - not just who we deem as "good". None of us are "good" - we all have sinned. Jesus was the ultimate example of what He wants us to do.... He ate with sinners, He had compassion on sinners, He healed sinners - He sacrificed His life for sinners..... He LOVES sinners!!!

How are we doing as Christians? Are we true "Christ-followers"? Do we do like Jesus did/does?

Are we afraid of what others might think??? Or are we willing to talk to / fellowship with / those whom Jesus came to die for??? The Gospel - GOOD NEWS is meant for sinners!!!

* Are you willing to know the Good News of God's mercy??? That He sent His only Son to die for your sins....

* Are you willing to make God's mercy an important part of your life??? Study God's Word, memorize it - make it part of who you are - live by it's word....

* Are you willing to tell others how God loves them so much??? "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners."

Come here and read about how you can get this freebie...

Today, I just made this LO of oldest son - I can't believe he will be 17 in a couple of weeks....

What Are Your Plans???

2009-02-24T21:11:00.002-06:00

“For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13

Does you life reflect your faith in God? Do you believe that He wants what is best for you? Do you seek Him with all your heart?

Ask yourself these questions...

* Do I serve as He served? Remember how He humbled Himself as a servant (washed the disciples feet - the lowest of servants had this job).

* Do I forgive as He forgave? Remember how He forgave all sinners (He did not condemn the woman caught in adultery - "He who is without sin, cast the first stone..." He said I forgive you).

* Do I Pray as He prayed? Remember how He would prayed for God's strength (even before the cross - He prayed drops of blood.... earnestly praying to God).

* Do I Sacrifice as He sacrificed? Remember how He gave up HIS throne - to come to earth, become a man, became a humble servant, died on the cross for our sins - NOT HIS (Jesus was sinless).

God loves us so much that He gave us HIS only Son Jesus to die in our stead. He wants us to live with Him in eternity. He cares about us - our lives, what is happening, our needs. We only need to seek Him - look to Him for our comfort during times of trouble - rejoice with Him in times of joy!

I am so thankful to God - and I pray that I can be a good example of Jesus' love to others.

Come here and see how you can get this QP for free...

One thing I am thankful is the relationship that my 2nd oldest and 2nd youngest daughters have. They have always been close.... Here is a LO of a recent birthday celebration....

Blessings of God

2009-02-24T00:01:00.001-06:00

Hi all,

I started a new Daily Devotional book and I want to share with you what I am learning.

Today's reading was on the Blessings of God - how God gives us blessings - so that we can then bless other - and how we can inherit His Kingdom.

How are we blessed?

God promises us that he will provide for us - For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. ³³ But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. ³⁴ Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Matthew 6:32b - 34

Blessings are on the head of the righteous... Proverbs 10:6

He shall receive blessing from the LORD,And righteousness from the God of his salvation. Psalm 24:5

Do you know Jesus, God's Son? Do you know that He died for your sins? Would you like to receive blessing from God? Believe today....

I praise God that He loves us so much - that He cares for all of our needs. He provides for us, He blesses us with all that we need.

It's My Birthday Sale!!!

2009-02-19T18:01:00.000-06:00

Hi all,

I am having a sale at my store at KJOI Studios!!! Guess how old I am LOL.... and you can get 45% off.... Come any time on Friday February 20th!!!

I am also going to start adding "specials" you can only get on my blog....

For the next 2 weeks (ends March 6th) get my newest kit,

The Greatest Is Love

For only $1 - just use this coupon code.... 1c88fa793b

Also - check out my Scripture Challenge at KJOIs.... you still have time to do a LO for it...

Kitchen Almost Done

2009-02-02T10:58:00.001-06:00

Well I am almost done with "remodeling" our play kitchen. I only have a few more things to do, but I became so worn out on Saturday. I also ran out of foam board for the freezer door. All that is left is to install the Kitchen faucet, freezer door and make burners for the stove (I may just paint these).

Play Kitchen Progress

2009-01-31T02:10:00.000-06:00

Hi all - well I am making progress on the play kitchen. Hopefully I can finish it tomorrow. A lot of the painting is done. There is still a few things that need a 2nd coat of paint.

This is the story of our play kitchen....

It was very heavy - if I would have known it was this heavy, I think we would have not gotten this particular entertainment center. When we got it in the house.... we removed all of the doors to make it easier to get it upstairs.

I did most of the work on it - in the girl's room. So they are unable to play in there when there is wet paint. I did end up painting the doors - downstairs. So I painted and repainted....

1st I actually put up the "Princess Paper" - then I realized I would need to paint the rest of the area since there was so much extra space - and I did not want to cut the Princess Paper down to fit....

Next I started painting the rest of the spaces in some pink paint we had leftover from one of the girl's rooms. Originally, the "sink" was going to be on the left, and the stove on the right.

But then when I looked at it again - I realized it would be better to switch these areas. So I needed to repaint.... LOL So I started with adding the shelf on the left side so that it would be the stove. I put it up a little higher so that I could use one of the shelves for the "oven door".

Then I bought some 12x12 floor tiles - cut them and made the "Counter". I also cut strips about 1" tall for the "backsplash". I love how the counter turned out....

Today I was busy painting - I did the top shelf silver - "stove top". Painted the oven door silver - and repainted the pink oven - to this charcoal cover. I also added the backsplash around the oven area. TO the door I added hinges and a handle. Tomorrow I need to put the door on - and add burners and knobs.... The knobs are closet door knobs painted silver - and I will add some markings with black permanent marker.

I also just did a quick 1st coat to the under sink area in blue - the doors were downstairs drying too. I will add new knobs to the door and put them on - after I do a 2nd coat of blue. It was getting to be too much pink - and the blue paint was on sale at Menards....

Busy-ness, LO shares and fun

2009-01-28T14:58:00.001-06:00

Hi all,

Well life is busy. We started school this week - it is going well.

Our oldest daughter stayed in MI with grandparents - she is almost 21. So we are giving her bedroom to the two youngest girls 16 months and almost 7 years. At least the older one is sleeping in there. The other day, Jessica pulled the small plastic play kitchen on top of her - it is not very sturdy - so I want to get them a new one. Well yesterday, I found this cool play kitchen made out of an entertainment center. SO today I went and bought one for $20 - it is sooooo heavy ( ooops)..... I will be showing before, during and after pics - and I am sure I will be making a LO of it.... I know this will be a lot of fun to make it. I also decided to make some felt food - there are some great patterns on etsy.... plus I found some free ones I am going to try first.... who knows, I may even just make up my own patterns....

I finally was able to do some scrapping - I got 4 LOs done the other day. Well I am on the Digitals Team CT - it is a lot of fun - working with all the different designers. So these are all using Maddy Fernandez' Summer Bloom and Summer Leisure kits. I also used 2 of Hummie's templates - they really inspired me to make these LOs....

It is so nice to get some scrapping done!!! Next, I am going to work on the challenges at KJOI Studios. One is to scrap one photo a week to account for what happened. So I am going to try and do this for January to catch up - there might be a lot of journaling rather than as many photos. I think it might be good to journal our year - especially with hubby being gone....

So now onto doing some LOs ....

Cutting Back

2009-01-26T18:39:00.001-06:00

Hi all,

Well I decided it was time to do a bit of pruning in my life. We recently got back from being gone for 6 weeks. We saw my hubby off at Thanksgiving time - he was deployed and arrived in the middle east on Christmas day. Then we thankfully went to spend the holidays with my family. We had a wonderful time around family.

But now, I am looking at all that I am doing.... as it seems like at times I am spinning wheels.... I was looking at all my new kits (thinking it was many) and realized I have been doing way too many collab kits between the 2 stores I am at. So I decided something has to give.... plus I am getting no time to scrap my wonderful family - and the photos keep stacking up....

So as of the end of this month - I will no longer be selling my designs at Faith Sisters. I will stay at KJOIs for now - unless I am unable to keep up with everything I would like to do.... SO until the end of the month - you can get all of my designs for $1 at Faith Sisters....

Keep an eye on my blog.... I plan on doing a lot more things to help inspire you to scrap your photos. I would like to offer special deals etc I so hope to be able to encourage you as well as be encouraged....

Firm Resolutions

2009-01-03T09:00:00.000-06:00

Hi all - do you find yourself making resolutions at this time of the year? Are you making keepable resolutions? How about joining us in the challenge at Faith Sisters and make Firm Resolutions in Christ!

We have made mini-kits to help you to scrap your resolutions - this is mine...

Here is my LO...

I have made this LO into a QP.

Download Here

I hope you will join us in making Firm Resolutions In Christ!

Busy, Busy, Busy & a Challenge

2008-10-22T09:13:00.001-05:00

Hi all - I am still here... this week has just been real busy....

I don't know if I have shared this with you here, but my husband is
getting ready to deploy. So life can be kind of crazy at times. He
has only been home on the weekends the past month - so are weekends are
real busy as we spend a lot of quality time together as a family!!!
Then since we are so busy, I am kind of tired the 1st of the week....
LOL But I am keeping up with homeschooling and other things....

As you know, I am a new designer at KJOI Studios - so one of my tasks
this week has been loading up my store with my kits.... Have you seen
my brand-new kit....

In The Garden...

I really enjoyed creating this unique kit!!!

Here is a LO I made with it...

So my challenge to you...

Make a LO of a prayer for your children, spouse, friends, family, self, etc. Choose your subject. It can be a simple prayer. This can be a prayer of thanks, prayer of protection, prayer of joy,.... Please leave me a link to your LO in the comments section and I will send you a coupon for a free kit from me. Please email me at digiscraps @ imelville.com (remove the spaces) if you have not heard back from me within a few days. Especially if you are doing this challenge at a later time....

As you do this LO, pray for this loved one. Do you pray daily for your loved one??? Take time today and everyday to lift your loved ones up to the Saviour!!!

Time to Celebrate

2008-10-16T10:17:00.001-05:00

We are having a party at KJOI Studios!!!

The Designer Search is finally over, we have a brand
new server, and we are celebrating KJOIs 1st Birthday!
Come join us in all the festivities!!!

Are YOU Ready???

2008-10-13T15:30:00.000-05:00

Are YOU Ready???

* With all that is going on with the economy, are you ready???

* With all that is happening in the election, are you ready???

* With winter approaching, are you ready???

* Christmas, Thanksgiving are coming soon, are you ready???

All of these are important things effecting our lives. But even more important than these, are you ready for heaven? If you died today, tomorrow, next week.... would you be ready to meet God??? Do you believe that Jesus - God's Son died in your place for ALL the sins you have commited???

Even if you do not die soon, would you be ready for Jesus to return to take us home with him??? When he returns to take his church with Him, will you go or will you be left behind???

If YOU are sure about your salvation... are you telling others??? Do your friends, co-workers, neighbors - know that you are a Christian??? Are you spreading the good news that Jesus died for their sins???

I personally am planning on doing a LOT more sharing about how GOD loves you!!! I think time might be short and I want everyone I know - to know where I stand before GOD!!!

Will you join me???

Isaiah 38:20

“ The LORD was ready to save me; Therefore we will sing my songs with stringed instruments All the days of our life, in the house of the LORD.”

Matthew 24:44

Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.

1 Peter 3:15

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;

Monday's Motivation - Oct 13, 2008

2008-10-13T15:15:00.001-05:00

Hi all - well I thought I might get back into my weekly theme's....

SO Monday is Motivation....

How about a motivation to scrap a LO???

Show me a LO you have done in Oct that gives praise to God - and I will send you a coupon for a kit of your choice in my store!!! This can be any subject that acknowledges God!!!

Here is a LO that I have done recently...

Leave me a link to your LO (in the comments) and I will email you your coupon code!!

SO what is my motivation this week....

* start doing more challenges to get people to "Put a Little God in Every LO"
* start blogging more - inspirational messages
* start working out more on the Wii Fit
* start Learning Adventures this week with the kids....

Thank you for reading,
Lori

While I live...

2008-10-09T09:48:00.001-05:00

Hi all,

While I was doing my Quiet Time with God, one of the verses really popped out at me...

Psalm 146:2

While I live I will praise the Lord; I will sing Praises to my God while I have my being.

The Psalmist continued by talking about how God created us - and everything we see. God IS in control. He KNOWS what is going on in our lives. HE LOVES us - He is there for us....s

This is just a neat reminder - to Praise the Lord - no matter what! I am Alive - isn't that a great thing to Praise the LORD for!!!

I am also reminded of the verses in the NT that read - in All things give THANKS to the Lord.... DO we have an "Attitude of Gratitude"? Are we giving praise / thanks to the One who created us??? For all that HE has done and is doing in our lives???

I pray that You and I will PRAISE the LORD ALWAYS!!!

Round 4 of the contest is posted! 31 free items & voting!

2008-09-29T11:15:00.001-05:00

We are so happy to announce that Round 4 (the final round) in our designer contest has been posted!

Please visit our shop ( http://kjoistudios.net/shop/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=263_309&sort=20a&page=1 ) and download all the entries for free. Pick you FOUR favorite entries for this round and then go here and vote!

You can also visit our gallery and leave comments for the designers
and post layouts with these entries. I know the contestants will LOVE
to hear what you have to say about their work. http://kjoistudios.com/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=395

Round 3 voting is still going on too, so if you haven’t downloaded
and cast your vote for round 3, please do so. You can still pick up
the freebies from Rounds 1 & 2, although the voting is closed for
those Rounds!

I hope that you have enjoyed the contest and I look forward to welcoming our new team members!

Thank you all for your votes, downloads and comments. It really helps to know what our customers think!

KJOI - Round 3 entries are in the shop and the voting poll is OPEN!

2008-09-27T18:37:00.001-05:00

Stop by our NEW shop and pick up your Round 3 entries!

After you’ve downloaded the entries, please take a few minutes to vote for your FOUR favorite entries in our voting poll here.

Then, you can leave comments for the designers in our gallery and post your layouts created with the entries!

Where is Your Confidence

2008-09-24T11:39:00.001-05:00

Hi all - Life can sure get busy and out of control at times... I am trying to get back to things that are good and make good routines - again.... So I am going to try and do a devotional on the Verse of the Day (on the left - by BibleGateway).

Last night, I did not get good sleep - neither did I, 1 year ago.... Jessica was born 1 year ago - last evening. She is such a blessing in our lives. But having a 1 year old at 44 is not so easy. She is so busy - evens runs circles around her 8 brothers and sister. BUT she is truly a blessing from God - she brings so much joy to our lives - all of the time!!!

So how can I be thankful even in the midst of being so tired this morning???

32 But recall the former days in which, after you were illuminated, you endured a great struggle with sufferings: 33
partly while you were made a spectacle both by reproaches and
tribulations, and partly while you became companions of those who were
so treated; 34 for you had compassion on me^[h]
in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods,
knowing that you have a better and an enduring possession for
yourselves in heaven.^[i]35 Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. 36 For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise:
       37 “ For yet a little while,
      And He^[j] who is coming will come and will not tarry.
       38 Now the^[k]just shall live by faith;
      But if anyone draws back,
      My soul has no pleasure in him.”^[l]

What is my confidence??? - it is the confidence of what God has done for me before. It is seeing HIM bring me through easy and hard times. It is knowing what HE has DONE for those in before me - in the Bible. When we see God's awesome power in our lives - what HE has done - how can we but have CONFIDENCE??? "I CAN do ALL things through Christ who gives me STRENGTH!" We can have all confidence in HIM!!!

What is our purpose? We are to praise and worship God. We are to tell the "Good News" of God sending HIS one and only Son to die for our sins. Jesus rose again and is alive for ever-more. He paid the penalty for our sins - the perfect sacrifice - he took our place. We can now be brought back to God - to have perfect fellowship with HIM - only because Jesus!!!

I pray that you can have the confidence to share the good news!!!

In Christ,
Lori

Birthday Celebration

2008-09-17T16:27:00.001-05:00

Hi all - I am having a Birthday Celebration!!!

Look who is turning one!!!

To celebrate my baby's Birthday, I have everything in
my store for $1!!! This sale will be through the end of September. Come browse through my store and pick up some great bargains!!!

Thank you for looking,

Lori

Come Celebrate With ME!!!

2008-08-13T18:52:00.000-05:00

Hi all - I am in a Designer Contest at KJOI Studios!!! We are having so much fun!!!

You can go to the Shop
and download our entries for FREE!!! Then vote here for your favorite designs. There are tons of great things being created - and you can get them all for free!!! Please VOTE!!!

Here is a preview...

My 1st CU FREEBIE!!!
So to celebrate our fun... I decided to give you a free commercial use paper texture. Use it in anyway you see fit - just do not sell or give it away in its present state....

Download Here

How Fit Are YOU?

2008-08-04T13:01:00.001-05:00

Digital Scrapbooking is addicting.... :)

It can keep us glued to our computers as we have fun making LOs and designing. It is such an exciting hobby as we see our photos come to life!!!

But... that can leave us a bit lacking on the physical side of things.... What are you doing to keep yourself active.... Today, I started (again) my 1 mile walk with Leslie Sansone (DVD). I have always loved it, but my back objects a lot of the time.... So now I am trying it again, with my bouncer shoes. Hopefully this will work.

It was hard doing todays walk.... It was a struggle to walk it. I really did not want to do it.... but since having baby, I have gained 25 lbs. A few years ago, I lost 65 lbs in one year, and I still want to loose a lot more. But we were surprised last year with our new arrival.... I am nursing her and it is not recommended to "diet". So I now am seeing the typical weight gain I have when my babies start eating baby food.... But I don't WANT to have to buy bigger clothes ever again.... I am getting close.... ugh

So today I am starting my "Walk The Walk" venture with Leslie Sansone....

I actually feel really good now, after doing it! I walked 1 mile. Walked it well!!!

Are you interested in joining me???

Lori

Verse Of The Day - Have You Believed?

2008-07-31T12:18:00.002-05:00
“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons
of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of
blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of
God.” (John 1:12-13)

Have you ever read the "Left Behind" series? They are all about after the rapture of the church. If you have never trusted Jesus as your Saviour, you will be one of the ones who will be left behind.

God loved you so much that he gave HIS only Son - to die in your place so that you could spend eternity with HIM (John 3:16).

The only thing you need to do is Believe.... "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved!!!" (Acts 16:31)

There is nothing else we need to do.... "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us." (Titus 3:5)

I pray that you will BELIEVE today! If you are already a BELIEVER, are you sharing the good news of Christ?

Lori

Long Time - No See!

2008-07-31T11:57:00.002-05:00
I started this post a few days ago, but I have been struggling with what to say... I guess I am out of practice.... LOL I can't believe that it has been about 6 months since I have written.... life has gone crazy.

Can you believe our baby is now 10 months old??? The other day she started taking a few steps by herself.... She has been crawling for awhile and practically running around holding onto the furniture.... I can't believe how busy she keep us....

I have been a creative slump for awhile.... I am trying everything to try and get out of it.... I even opened a new store.... Faith Scraps - I have even created a Gallery and a Forum.... but not much happening on any of it yet.... I don't even know if there is any interest.... But I do have a blog coupon for 50% off your purchase.... coupon: AugBlog08.

A few months ago, my Compaq Laptop was severely wounded when XP tried an update. I ended up having to reformat my hard drive. So I am now using Linus OS and GIMP. Well I have been struggling with designing in GIMP - until today.... I finally figured out how to install Eye Candy on GIMP!!! Yahoo!!! I have done some really neat pages in GIMP but was struggling with elements - no good beveling.... now I am on my way to really designing again!!!

I have joined ADS Designers and today I am joining a Designing Challenge at Funky Playground! Hopefully I will learn a lot of new techniques to improve my designing!!! Tomorrow - ADSD will be sharing our newest Mega Kit - come back and get my piece of this kit tomorrow.

I hope to start a more regular habit of blogging once again!!!

Lori

Template Tuesday - January 15, 2008

2008-01-15T10:26:00.001-06:00

Hi all - Have you seen any great templates lately???

Well HummiesWorld has a lot of great templates in both square and rectangular.

She also has a lot of great challenges with more to come in her forum.

Here is one - that if you can complete a LO by tomorrow Wed - January 16th you could win a kit by Tina Williams!!!

See details here.

You can download this freebie template for a limited time....

Monday's Motivation - January 14, 2008

2008-01-14T13:27:00.001-06:00

Hi all - it has been a long time, since I have done one of these....

Life kind of has been crazy with a newborn again....

This past week, we had a lot of sick kids - I have a light case of this cold so far....

So I am going to try going slowly....

THIS WEEKS MOTIVATION -
1. So what do you have planned for this week???
2. January is the time for organizing. How are your Digi-scraps organized? I just got a new external hard drive for my laptop. I have almost finished organizing things, but there is a few more things that NEED to be put in their correct folder.... Do you need to go thru your files? Eliminate junk or things you will never use???

My Week's Goals -
1. Organize a few more areas of my scrap stuff.
2. Scrap at least 7 LOs one for each day.
3. Work on a kit....
4. Participate on HummiesWorld.....
5. Keep things going at home....

So what are your goals for this week???
Also I would love to see your goals!!!
Please share below using Mr. Linky...

Count Down til Christmas - Advent Kit

2007-12-28T19:10:00.001-06:00

Hi all - well I am back!!! Sorry for not finishing out the daily downloads, but I do have the rest of the kit for you today....

I have been having problems with my blood pressure since my baby was born. So on Monday (1 week ago), the Dr put me on BP meds - and I had a bad reaction to it. So I am seeing if I can lower my BP with diet, exercise, & resting in the Lord. So far, my BP has gone down several points. I am hoping and praying that it will normalize....

I hope you enjoyed this Advent Kit. It will be available for awhile. I have some plans for it - making a printable version (for sale) that we can use next Christmas to count down the days.... Thank you for stopping by to download this kit....

Download Here

Link 1

Link 2

Link 3

Count Down 'til Christmas Dec 16

2007-12-16T21:57:00.001-06:00

Hi all - well here is today's download... a mini-kit....

I hope you are enjoying all of these downloads!!! I have been having fun making them for you!!!

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas Dec 15th

2007-12-16T20:38:00.001-06:00

Hi all - yes, this one is really late... Yesterday I went and downloaded the trial version of PSP X2. I ordered it online yesterday from Best Buy for $40. But it may take a few weeks to get here, since it is on backorder.... So I got caught up in playing with this new upgrade!!!

So here is a QP for yesterday and I will have todays download done in a few minutes....

Download Here

Here is a LO I did with this QP...

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 14th

2007-12-14T22:38:00.001-06:00

Hi all - time is really flying.... Christmas is almost here and 2007 is almost gone....

So here is a couple of bells to help ring the holidays in....

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 13th

2007-12-13T19:37:00.001-06:00

Hi all,

Today's freebie represents our outside weather LOL...

We do have quite a bit of snow here...

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas Dec 12th

2007-12-12T23:16:00.001-06:00

Hi all, sorry this was really late. I finished this earlier than we had to run out so that we could shine our "lights" caroling at some nursing homes. What a wonderful time we had ministering to shut-ins!!

May these candle light up your LOs!!!

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 11th

2007-12-11T17:12:00.001-06:00

Hi all - here is today's freebie.

This sheaf of wheat represents the delectable food that we are blessed with Christmas....

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 10th

2007-12-10T12:33:00.001-06:00

HI all - Here is today's freebie - and earlier in the day!!!

I had fun making these candy canes - I hope you like them too!!!

Download Here

Christmas Around The World

2007-12-09T22:51:00.001-06:00

HI all - Welcome to Christmas Around the World!!!

Thank you to FishnMomDesigns for heading this up!!!

You can find the links for the Downloads to this huge Free kit here....

This is a preview of my kit...

Plus some freebies I made for a chat at Hummie's World.

Here are my Downloads

Backs

Elements 1

Elements 2

Elements 3

Elements 4

Chat Freebie

Enjoy this fantastic mega kit - be sure to leave lots of lovin' for each of the designers!!!

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 9th

2007-12-09T22:50:00.001-06:00

Hi all- finally... here is today's freebies.

Today, you can download 3 overlays and a paper...

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 8th

2007-12-08T21:54:00.001-06:00

Hi all- sorry this is so late. I am having problems with PSP - it takes forever to edit the text in these previews....

Enjoy these pieces to today's download!!!

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 7th

2007-12-07T10:40:00.001-06:00

Hi all - Here is a pair of trumpets to herald in your LOs....

I hope you are enjoying my Count Down 'til Christmas!!!

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 6th

2007-12-06T18:51:00.001-06:00

HI all - Here is the 6th Freebie.

You can download these 2 10 Commandments elements.

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 5th

2007-12-05T15:42:00.001-06:00

Hi all - Here are 2 cuddly lambs for today's freebie.

I hope you are enjoying these downloads!!!

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 4th

2007-12-04T20:56:00.001-06:00

This was definitely late today....

So without further ado, here is today's freebie - 4 Overlays.

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 3rd

2007-12-03T16:36:00.001-06:00

Hi all - Here is Day 3!!!

Sorry this is late, but we had to make an unexpected trip to the doctor today...

Today's freebie is of stars....

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 2nd

2007-12-02T10:27:00.001-06:00

Hi all - Here is today's freebie!!!

I thought I would ever get the preview finished - my laptop was having issues... LOL

Enjoy this version of Noah's Ark. It comes with and without trim.

You will also find my Noah's Ark Kit here.

Download Here

Count Down 'til Christmas - Dec 1st

2007-12-01T13:23:00.001-06:00

Hi all - well I decided to do a freebie a day until Christmas!!!

Come back everyday and get a fun Christmas item or two!!!

Today you will find a cute Gingerbread Boy & Girl!!!

Download Here

This is based on the Jesse Tree, a Celebration of Advent...

Themed Thursday - DOTS

2007-11-01T18:04:00.001-05:00

Hi all - This is a LO I did a few weeks ago....

Themed Thursday - Sweet

2007-11-01T17:57:00.001-05:00

Hi all - well I thought I would do a little catching up on the Themed Thursdays.

Right now, I am slowly adding things, as I have way too much on my plate...

I made this LO the other day...

Verse Of The Day - Be of Good Courage

2007-10-18T08:03:00.001-05:00

Psalm 27:14

Wait on the LORD;
         Be of good courage,
         And He shall strengthen your heart;
         Wait, I say, on the LORD!

This is such a great Psalm - I just love the Psalms!!!

Psalm 27 - verse be verse:

We have nothing to fear - because God is our light, salvation & strength

Our enemies are unsuccessful - they stumble and fall - because of God

We have confidence - not fear

Here is a key - we must desire to seek God daily!!!

He will hide us and set us on high - HIS protection

We will be lifted above our enemies - safety... sing praises to GOD!!!

He has mercy on us and will answer our prayers.

Say "yes" to seeking after God

He is there - He will never leave nor forsake us

HE will take care of us

He will teach us HIS way - and lead us

He will protect us

God is good, HE is a living GOD

After all of this protection, love, goodness from the LORD we come to verse 14:

We need to wait on the LORD - we need to rest in HIM, knowing that HE WILL take care of us

We need to be of good courage - we are waiting on HIM, trusting that HE WILL take care of us

We need to draw our strength from the LORD - HE WILL strengthen our heart - HE IS the source of our courage

We need to wait on the LORD...

Where do you draw your strength from??? Job - money??? Friends / Family???

Or from GOD - the only ONE who CAN give you true strength???

Are you courageous??? Are you waiting on GOD - the one who is there for you???

Are you waiting on the LORD??? We have nothing to fear with God on our side!!!

Monday's Motivation - October 15, 2007

2007-10-15T09:33:00.001-05:00

Hi all - I'm back!!!

Jessica is now 3 weeks old! I am slowly recovering - it takes a lot longer when you are 43... LOL

THIS WEEKS MOTIVATION -

1. So what do you have planned for this week???
2. Have you ever used a template??? Have you ever created a template???   Try one this week....

My Week's Goals -
I will definitely be taking tings a bit easier....
1. Do at least 1 LO a day - Digitals Challenges
2. Complete LO for 3S Challenge
3. Do memes

So what are your goals for this week???
Also I would love to see your Journaling LO!!!
Please share below using Mr. Linky...

Verse of the Day - Our Great God

2007-10-15T09:11:00.001-05:00

2 Samuel 7:18-29
18 Then King David went in and sat before the LORD; and he said: “Who am I, O Lord GOD? And what is my house, that You have brought me this far? 19 And yet this was a small thing in Your sight, O Lord GOD; and You have also spoken of Your servant’s house for a great while to come. Is this the manner of man, O Lord GOD? 20 Now what more can David say to You? For You, Lord GOD, know Your servant. 21 For Your word’s sake, and according to Your own heart, You have done all these great things, to make Your servant know them. 22 Therefore You are great, O Lord GOD.^[c] For there is none like You, nor is there any God besides You, according to all that we have heard with our ears. 23 And who is like Your people, like Israel, the one nation on the earth whom God went to redeem for Himself as a people, to make for Himself a name—and to do for Yourself great and awesome deeds for Your land—before Your people whom You redeemed for Yourself from Egypt, the nations, and their gods? 24 For You have made Your people Israel Your very own people forever; and You, LORD, have become their God.
25 “Now, O LORD God, the word which You have spoken concerning Your servant and concerning his house, establish it forever and do as You have said. 26 So let Your name be magnified forever, saying, ‘The LORD of hosts is the God over Israel.’ And let the house of Your servant David be established before You. 27 For You, O LORD of hosts, God of Israel, have revealed this to Your servant, saying, ‘I will build you a house.’ Therefore Your servant has found it in his heart to pray this prayer to You.
28 “And now, O Lord GOD, You are God, and Your words are true, and You have promised this goodness to Your servant. 29 Now therefore, let it please You to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue before You forever; for You, O Lord GOD, have spoken it, and with Your blessing let the house of Your servant be blessed forever.”

The beginning of this chapter is when King David desires to build a temple for God. God promises David, that he will have a son who will be the one to do this.... This passage is David's praise to God.
1st, David acknowledges all that God has done for him, and that HE has revealed Himself to him.
Thus, David acknowledges:

You are great, O Lord God - David makes the right conclusion.

There is none like You - God is God alone

Nor is there any God besides You - He is the one TRUE God

according to all that we have heard with our own ears - we are without excuse, we have / can hear of God personally!!!

"Let Your name be magnified forever!!!" (vs 26)

"O Lord GOD, You are God, and Your words are true, and You have promised this goodness to Your servant." (vs 28)

Have you listened to God's Word??? Have you acknowledged that HE is the one true God???

Praise the Lord that I can serve our GREAT GOD!!!

Verse of the Day - A Future & A Hope

2007-10-13T09:18:00.001-05:00

Jeremiah 29:11-14a

11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13 And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you,

How does your future look??? Do you have hope???

In Jeremiah 29, we find that God is on our side:

He knows the thoughts he thinks toward us - God is thinking of us, we are not forgotten, nor forsaken

His thoughts are of peace and not of evil - God is holy, He is just, He gives us peace

He gives us a future and a hope - there is no need for despair, God has a plan for us....

What do we need to do???

Call upon God - we need to turn to HIM, He is already there for us

Go and pray to Me - God wants us to come to HIM, to pray to HIM, to lay our burdens before HIM, to trust HIM

Go in confidence - "I will listen to you" - God will listen to our prayers, HE cares, He loves, He is there waiting...

Seek Me and Find Me - search with all your heart - we need to earnestly desire to seek after God - this needs to be a daily commitment on our part... He is there for us, we just need to tap into HIM!!! WE NEED GOD!!!

How does your future look??? Are you seeking God with ALL your heart??? Are you tapping into the only resource that can give you true hope???

Seek God today!!!

Verse of the Day - My Salvation

2007-10-11T09:56:00.001-05:00

Psalm 62

1 Truly my soul silently waits for God;
         From Him comes my salvation.
2 He only is my rock and my salvation;
He is my defense;
         I shall not be greatly moved.

Where does your salvation come from??? How do you make it through life's trials???

In Psalm 62, we read:

"Truly my soul silently waits for God" - are you waiting on God??? Or are you running around, half-crazy, trying to do everything on your own???

"From Him comes my salvation" - are you relying on God to help you??? Or are you trying to do everything on your own???

"He only is my rock and my salvation" - only God is our true salvation!!! He is our rock - our FIRM Foundation!!! Only HE can provide the stability that we need!!!

"He is my defense;" - How can we lose, with God as our defense??? PRAISE THE LORD - We can't lose!!! The victory is already HIS!!! We ARE on the winning team!!!

"I shall not be greatly moved." - WE HAVE WON!!! We do need to stick with God - HE will stick with us!!! But we must NOT be doing everything on our own!!!

Are you choosing to be on the WINNING Team??? Choose to put your trust in God TODAY!!!

Verse of the Day - Wise Counsel

2007-10-10T10:34:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 19:20-21
20 Listen to counsel and receive instruction,
      That you may be wise in your latter days.
21 There are many plans in a man’s heart,
      Nevertheless the LORD’s counsel—that will stand.

Where do you seek counsel??? Is it from wise sources??? How do you determine wise???

In this passage, we are told to:

Listen to counsel - it is important for us to seek counsel - others advice especially in major decisions

Receive instruction - what use is counsel, if we refuse to listen???

Now, where should this counsel come from:

Many plans are in a man's heart - we have many different thought, but how are we to discern what is wise???

the Lord's Counsel - will stand!!! counsel that is wise and true is from the Lord!!!

So how do we find the Lord's counsel???

Look to God's Word - the Bible

Seek counsel from mature, wise Christians - pastors, leaders....

It is important for us to seek wise counsel - especially for major decisions. We personally have a select group of people that we seek advice. We listen to what they say, weighing their opinions - looking at all of the pros & cons (so to speak). Of course - we first are seeking the Lord in much prayer!!!

Do YOU seek WISE counsel???

Verse of the Day - Fear vs Trust

2007-10-02T10:36:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 29:25

The fear of man brings a snare, But whoever trusts in the LORD shall be safe.

Wow!!! What timing for this verse....

As you may know, On September 23 (8 days ago) I gave birth to our 9th Blessing!!! Well since then, I really did not sleep very much until this past Sunday - a few days ago.... I did not sleep the 2 nights in the hospital and with other things happening at home - I did not sleep very well there either....

On Friday & Saturday nights - I kind of had some huge problems because of this lack of sleep... I was not in the right frame of mind. My blood pressure was sky-rocketing and I just felt physically unwell.... So that led to some panic attacks.... They were mostly a struggle pertaining to this verse.... the fears of man verses trusting in God....

Have you heard Casting Crowns' "The Voice of Truth"???

Chorus:

But the voice of truth tells me a different story
the voice of truth says "do not be afraid!"
and the voice of truth says "this is for my glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth

Well the fears of man - possible medical problems, all kinds of fear - were running rampant in my head.... There were all kinds of fears that the enemy was planting in my head - causing me to become paralyzed with fear.... but the voice of Truth - Jesus - The Word of Truth, was fighting for me..... God is in control, He holds all things in His hands - were some of His promises running thru my head.

Because I had NOT been spending much time fellowshipping with God in the few weeks prior to giving birth - I had allowed some fears to get a tiny foothold in me.... I got distracted.... I was not completely trusting in God..... So these fears tried to take over....

I do praise the LORD - that very soon after I started panicing - I asked for someone to bring me some Praise & Worship music - so that I could hear the truth - to have God's abilities - mentioned in this music to seep thru me - to remind me of the Truths about God's Power. As I listened, I drew strength from God - as I was reminded of HIS Marvelous Power!!! I was able to sleep very peacefully for several hours that night....

Saturday night - my blood pressure was extremely high - both numbers from the lack of sleep and rest.... But I was able to go to sleep somewhat and just trust God that He was in control and would be with me....

On Sunday, we all realized that my body was very much exhausted and that I really need to sleep - I slept 5 hours (several naps) during the day - and that night I was in bed for 14 hours - sleeping most of that time.... (off and on with feeding baby....) LOL

So.... what has this taught me.... I am getting older and it was harder for me to recover after birth... LOL

Actually - I realized that yes, I have come a long ways in this past few years in trusting God 1st - but there is always room for improvement.... We (I) have to daily - every moment, choose to trust in God to be our ALL in ALL. We need to listen to HIS voice and not the voice of the enemy..... We NEED to listen to the Voice of Truth - Jesus....

I thank God for this experience and every time I go thru anything that is HARD - because I know that we have a GOD that truly cares about the minute details of our lives. HE TRULY CARES!!!

Introducing

2007-09-25T13:13:00.001-05:00

Hi all - Our newest blessing finally arrived....

Scrapping Hiatis

2007-09-08T17:13:00.001-05:00

Hi all,

I thought I would give an update.... I am still waiting for baby....

I just thought I would give you all notice that I might not be real consistant right now with my posts....

Most nights I am not sleeping very well, either up real often, or I can't fall asleep. Then I am not to with it during the daytime.... So that makes it hard to think coherently to do the challenges, memes, etc.

SO, if I am with it - I will post, if not - it can wait....

But it won't be long and I WILL BE BACK!!!

Lori

Themed Thursdays - Overflowing

2007-09-06T18:38:00.001-05:00

Hi all,

Here is my take on Overflowing....

At 1st I thought I could do "Overflowing my Clothes" - since I am about out of room in my maternity clothes....

But, I did not want to gross anyone out - including myself.... LOL

When I got to my photos - I saw these showing my weight loss. I have not scrapped these yet....

I knew, especially with me holding out my shorts - that these would be perfect.

At the beginning of this year - I actually had gotten down to a 65 lb loss!!!

Currently, I am only 5 lbs more than in these photos....

As soon as the baby is born - I should be close to the 65 lb loss!!!

I can't wait to scrap those photos!!!

This is one of Simply Sarah's Templates

O.N. Designs Template Challenge & Faithbook #3

2007-09-06T10:27:00.001-05:00

Hi all,

O.N Designs is having a template challenge!!!

I decided that this template would work great for Faithbook Challenge #3 - scrap your favorite song....

I really love how this LO turned out!!!

Thank you for looking!!!

Mondays Motivation - September 3, 2007

2007-09-04T07:58:00.001-05:00

Hi all,

Even though it is Tuesday - I thought I would still post my Motivation Goals for this week....

It is getting soon for my baby to appear - and I am getting a bit restless.... LOL

So how did I do last week??? Well I don't think I did that many LO's - I did NOT do any of the wedding photos.... realistically I think I need to wait until AFTER the baby is born now.... LOL I did ok on the other things, but I found out late in the week that hubby was actually OFF for the 3 days!!! So we did some family type stuff!!!

I also have been crocheting like crazy - I found some neat baby patterns online and have been having fun!!! I will have to take photos when I am done and put them up online!!!

This Weeks Motivation -

1. So what do you have planned for this week???

2. How much journaling do you do in your LO's??? This week make an effort to add more journaling to your LO's!!!

My Week's Goals -

I think I will take it a bit easier this week....

1. Keep up with the Memes - or catch up.... LOL

2. Do some LO's - the new challenges started at Digitals on the 1st - I have made the list and have been doing some planning....

3. Do another Faithbook page - journaling page

Non-scrapping goals:

1. Have a baby???

2. Start school - TODAY!!!

3. Do some crochet stuff to blog etc....

So what are your goals for this week???
Also I would love to see your Journaling LO!!!
Please share below using Mr. Linky...

Verse of the Day - Good News!!!

2007-09-04T07:33:00.001-05:00

2 Timothy 1:13-14

13 Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14 That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us.

The books of Timothy were written by Paul - to Timothy, a young pastor - as words of encouragement.

We are to HOLD FAST (remember, cling to, etc):

to the Pattern of sound words - look to the Scriptures

you have heard from me - again looking to the Scriptures, not to man's advice.

these words are spoken / shared in faith & love in Christ Jesus - again they are from God Himself!!!

We can DO it:

Good thing - the good news of the Gospel - the Scriptures

Committed to you - we all need to be doing this ourselves - sharing the Scriptures with others

we can KEEP this commitment through the power of the HOLY SPIRIT who lives in us!!!

Not only has GOD given us HIS WORD, but HE has given us HIS power through the HOLY SPIRIT to share the Good News of HIS love for us!!!

Do you share this GREAT NEWS with others???

Restlessness

2007-09-04T07:21:00.001-05:00

Hi all,

I just thought I would mention that I am a bit restless now....

The last few days I have been taking a break from anything to do with scrapping....

I have actually been doing a lot more crocheting - found some neat baby patterns....

As you may know, I am in the last days of waiting for baby - so I may not be totally on top of things!!!

Thank you for your patience and continued support.

Lori

Verse of the Day - Worship

2007-08-31T08:59:00.001-05:00

Psalm 95

1 Oh come, let us sing to the LORD!
         Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation.
2 Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving;
         Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms.
3 For the LORD is the great God,
         And the great King above all gods.
4 In His hand are the deep places of the earth;
         The heights of the hills are His also.
5 The sea is His, for He made it;
         And His hands formed the dry land.
6 Oh come, let us worship and bow down;
         Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker.
7 For He is our God,
         And we are the people of His pasture,
         And the sheep of His hand.

What a great Psalm of praise to our God!!!

vs 6 is about us coming to God in reverence:

let us worship

let us bow down

let us kneel before God - who is our maker

vs 7 tells us why:

He is our God

we are His people - here we are likened unto sheep / and He is the Great Shepherd.

So why & how should we worship God:

He is the Rock of our salvation

Be thankful

Shout joyfully

He is a great Go

He is a great King

For He has made creation and has power over it!!!

What an Awesome God that we can Praise & Worship HIM!!!

How often do you take time to worship God???

Themed Thursday - Persuade

2007-08-30T15:10:00.001-05:00

Hi all,

Well this was almost hard to do... but I did one of Jenny.

She has us all wrapped around her little finger - especially when she is being so sweet....

Simply Sarah's Template

Verse of the Day - How Can We Be Blessed???

2007-08-30T13:26:00.001-05:00

Psalm 1

1 Blessed is the man
         Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
         Nor stands in the path of sinners,
         Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
         And in His law he meditates day and night.
3 He shall be like a tree
         Planted by the rivers of water,
         That brings forth its fruit in its season,
         Whose leaf also shall not wither;
         And whatever he does shall prosper.
4 The ungodly are not so,
         But are like the chaff which the wind drives away.
5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment,
         Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
6 For the LORD knows the way of the righteous,
         But the way of the ungodly shall perish.

This is one of my favorite Psalms!!!

So ho can we be blessed???

Do not seek the counsel (advice) of the ungodly

Do not stand in the paths of sinners

Do not sit in the seat of the scornful

We need to be careful of our "friends". Are they people that will lift us up, or bring us down??? Will they influence us to do unrighteous (bad) things??? Friends DO have a big impact on our lives....

If you "need" to spend time with ungodly people, do you shine like a bright light set on a hill??? Don't let your light be quenched!!!

Wacky Wednesdays - August 29, 2007

2007-08-29T15:21:00.001-05:00

Hi all,

It's time for WACKY WEDNESDAYS!!!

I was looking thru my photos the other day and came across these goofy ones.

I was wondering how what I would do with them...

Then when I thought of this weeks Wacky Wednesday, I knew that I would use them for this LO today!!!

Here is my Goofy Girls...

Template by Simply Sarah

So do you have some goofy photos that are just begging to get scrapped???

Please share a LO with us!!!