tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70243172474603754472024-02-06T21:28:11.966-07:00Mama DelightsThe Lord makes firm the steps
of the one who delights in him
Psalm 37:23Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.comBlogger120125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-1887799404933155722012-10-31T11:08:00.001-07:002012-10-31T11:08:17.087-07:00“Mom, I know…”<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HjPagp6zjsA/UJFpBo4YgPI/AAAAAAAAHkY/r4N9okPpFJc/s1600-h/IMG_0255%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0255" border="0" alt="IMG_0255" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Fj3JN7fh24Q/UJFpCe-K6JI/AAAAAAAAHkg/B9GhRZW9x-Y/IMG_0255_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p>This year, I’ve seen my ten year old grow leaps and bounds. I know that there will be times when our kiddos do that, but it seems like ten was a big year for us. It started on Easter. Every year, my sweetie and I decided we wouldn’t buy cheapie pre-made baskets for our kiddos and that we’d make our own. </p> <p>Our family is HUGE on family traditions so I’d make the baskets and set them outside our front door. Believe me, our kiddos know the true reason to celebrate Easter and the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior, however, it is fun to be able to provide them a gift on that wonderful day as well. This picture was from 2010.</p> <p><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCF2713" border="0" alt="DSCF2713" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qa14JiYxRa0/UJFpCn_8keI/AAAAAAAAHko/Gofqc7kr4Kk/DSCF2713%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></p> <p> </p> <p>A week before Easter this year, my Lil G and I were running errands and he said in the car, “Mom, I know…” To which I responded, “what?” Then he dropped the bomb. “I know you’ve been the Easter Bunny and Tooth Fairy all this time.” </p> <p>My heart sank. Is he mad at me? Did he feel deceived? I didn’t know what to expect. I tried to hold back my tears but it just began to stream down my cheeks.</p> <p>Softly he said, “I never wanted to tell you because I knew it was special to you and I didn’t want you to feel bad. I see why you do it and the hard work you put into our baskets and it’s special to me too.”</p> <p>I pulled the car over and we hugged. I told dad what an amazing child we had and how our very mature and amazing son handled it. Over the summer as my sweetie and I reflected, we realized he didn’t mention Santa in his news. Did that mean he still believed? We decided to let it slide. Perhaps we still have a little innocence of make believe in our ten year old baby after all!</p> <p>Then… it happened again.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6_Tox7RRXpA/UJFpDH5-CdI/AAAAAAAAHkw/n798WXUCOg4/s1600-h/Pictures%25252012.21.2009%252520115%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Pictures 12.21.2009 115" border="0" alt="Pictures 12.21.2009 115" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-90F5ciLR3tQ/UJFpDX3JSMI/AAAAAAAAHk4/ISLS17AO4bQ/Pictures%25252012.21.2009%252520115_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>“Mom, I know…” We were heading out to our special date night. We are starting a new tradition of taking each one of our kiddos on a special date night to get to know each one individually better. We wanted to make sure to invest one and one time with each of our blessings and my hubby had Lil Dude and it was my turn with Lil G. “Mom, I know Santa is Daddy.” “How long have you known?” I responded. “Over a year.” </p> <p>Wow. That night as we sipped up our Jamba Juice we laughed and giggled over our new little secret. Lil Dude still believes and Lil G wanted to still have some time enjoying knowing something Lil Dude didn’t. </p> <p>Then I recalled Lil G insisting that we go for another ride on the Polar Express this year. We’ve gone every year since he was 3, but I thought this year we’d skip it (we traveled so much this year, I figured we could bypass it). However, Lil G insisted we go even if it was on a weeknight and wouldn’t be able to stay the weekend. I wondered why he insisted since he already knew Santa wasn’t real? To which he responded, “Mom, it’s a tradition. It’s OUR tradition and that’s what our family is about.”</p> <p><img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-redheart" alt="Red heart" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MRSp74S4jB0/UJFpD66R85I/AAAAAAAAHlA/eLYTGVKSSTE/wlEmoticon-redheart%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800"></p> Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-84287768600522066342012-10-09T07:42:00.001-07:002012-10-09T07:42:34.043-07:00When an exciting Family Joy opportunity goes WRONG…<p>On Saturday, we spent time as a family cleaning up the house and organizing. The boys worked so hard! So my sweetie and I decided we would pull an awesome prank/reward on them for a great family memory. I got the idea from the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00759NJCA/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B00759NJCA&link_code=as3&tag=orozcshomesko-20">Building Family Ties with Faith, Love, and Laughter</a> in which I reviewed <a href="http://mamadelights.blogspot.com/2012/09/building-family-ties-with-faith-love.html">here</a>. Here is an excerpt of the book:</p> <p><font size="5" face="Freestyle Script">“If you have young kids, some of your spontaneous activities will not require much advance planning. Take advantage of that luxury now! Come bedtime, say, ‘Get your PJs on and meet me at the car. We’re going to the drive-through at Krispy Kreme doughnuts.’”</font></p> <p>So at about 9pm we helped the boys get ready for bed:</p> <ul> <ul> <li>Bath/Brush Teeth</li> <li>Pajamas</li> <li>Tucked them in to bed and prayed our bedtime prayer</li></ul></ul> <p>After that, we were SUPPOSED to just close the door and then open it back up again immediately and yell “Surprise, we are going out for ICE CREAM!” That was the PLAN. But somehow, my dear husband didn’t understand the implications of his stalling. Just when I was about to open the door back up again, he said, “hold on, let me put my shoes on” in which he casually went to get his shoes. THEN he went to throw some thing away. THEN he wanted to put a different shirt on because we were heading out. THEN he went to grab a quick drink of water. Wha?! I’m standing at the door thinking, Oh my gosh my sweetie is taking sooo long! I want to do the surprise now! FINALLY he was ready. It seemed like only minutes but apparently they were crucial minutes.</p> <p>I count to three silently and we open the door and yelled, “SURPISE we are going to get some ICE CREAM!”</p> <p>I looked at what I thought would be giggling excited faces… to find that my two boys screaming in a panic and TERRIFIED! I wish I could have recorded this. Lil G screamed so hard he started crying. Lil Dude thought he was getting ROBBED (so he says). Lil G turned ghost white. They trembling and were shaking.</p> <p>Oh My Gosh. I messed up. They apparently were so tired, they were already drifting off when my dear husband decided to stall. I ran over to hug Lil Dude while my sweetie hugged Lil G. We explained what we were up to. We wanted to surprise them and take them out for ice cream. Then we finally got the giggles. Then Lil Dude said, MOM! You are CRAZY!</p> <p>We laughed and got our shoes on and went to get ColdStone. The boys giggled the whole way there. I can’t stop laughing. I keep laughing while I am writing this post. They forgave us and now it’s one of their favorite stories about their crazy mama and daddy.</p> Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-78175900422132715652012-10-05T08:45:00.000-07:002012-10-05T08:45:00.071-07:00Foto FridayWhen the kiddos are quiet, our mama instincts kick in and we try to figure out where our kids are, right? So when I couldn’t hear Lil Dude, I went on a hunt to find him. Where did I find him, you ask? Sneaking behind the coffee table to READ! Yes, my Lil Dude loves to read. So why would he <em>hide</em> to read? Because he is reading his big brother’s old chapter book. Lil G LOVES <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0545027276/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0545027276&linkCode=as2&tag=orozcshomesko-20">Captain Underpants</a> and has his own collection. Lil Dude was afraid he’d be in trouble for reading big brother’s book. Instead Mama was so giddy she had to get her camera. <br />
<br />Here is my forever memory of my second grader reading a fourth grade reading level book!<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4FMQjHjCddI/UG3c0MB1RkI/AAAAAAAAHIU/HxyfTu6wKr4/s1600-h/IMG_2535%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2535" border="0" height="164" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eARZxdKoRmc/UG3c0mLNSCI/AAAAAAAAHIc/_FhSQfSVG4w/IMG_2535_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_2535" width="244" /></a>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-49333608938114948652012-09-28T08:07:00.001-07:002012-09-28T08:07:32.390-07:00Building Family Ties with Faith, Love, and Laughter<p><a href="<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00759NJCA/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00759NJCA&linkCode=as2&tag=orozcshomesko-20">Building Family Ties with Faith, Love, and Laughter (Faithful Families)</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=orozcshomesko-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00759NJCA" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />"><img alt="" src="http://booksneeze.com/art/_140_245_Book.642.cover.jpg"></a> </p> <h3><font face="Jokerman">“Laughter and Joy shouldn’t be guests in your house; they should be permanent residents in your everyday life”</font></h3> <p>I received <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00759NJCA/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B00759NJCA&link_code=as3&tag=orozcshomesko-20">Building Family Ties with Faith, Love, and Laughter (Faithful Families)</a> by Dave Stone from Booksneeze yesterday and read it one day! I just couldn’t put it down. I felt it reaffirmed my own personal parenting purpose. Throughout each day, we have to be intentional and ensure that we are building a joyful, secure home. </p> <p>Here are some book highlights:</p> <p>The book talks about developing a family mission statement and how this will give your family direction, a focus that holds your family together. Secondly, I like how Stone talks about the importance of a family dinner table time. While we do this at home, we are quite lax when the boys want to be excused after eating. Stone through his insightful stories, helped me fast forward in my mind the teen years when our boys might try to get away with this and how that can be risky during those critical years. He gives ideas on how you can establish routines during dinner including developing fun and silly questions ahead of time to create bonds with your family. </p> <p>I’m excited about implementing Stone’s Good, Better, Best principle in our family. It’s a method in which as a family we discuss what is a Good response to a situation encountered and what would be a better or best response? The author gives the example of being a friend’s house for dinner and a good response is, ‘thank you for dinner, may I be excused?’ A better response is, ‘this dinner was really great! I liked the chicken, May I be excused?’ The best response is, ‘Thank you for dinner. I really liked the chicken. Do you need any help cleaning up?’</p> <p>This book is jam packed with stories and ideas of how to develop and strengthen your family. I highly recommend this parenting book. It is a quick read and you can determine which methods to implement. As for me, we might be implementing them all <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UgI5fJC-qbI/UGW83prPF5I/AAAAAAAAHAs/DfnopI_9F00/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800">. </p> <p> </p> <p>I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <<a href="http://booksneeze%c2%ae.com/">http://BookSneeze®.com</a>> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <<a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html">http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html</a>> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</p> Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-27627282857063367982012-09-27T10:15:00.001-07:002012-09-27T10:20:30.770-07:00Pillow Talk First, Fun Pillow Fight Afterwards<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://freedigitalphotos.net/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Image courtesy of photostock/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net" border="0" height="164" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UVCjX-1ZE-Y/UGSJrJhhE8I/AAAAAAAAG_k/IHrjWMFaxoU/pillow%252520fight_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-color: -moz-use-text-color; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="pillow fight" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image courtesy of Photostock / FreeDigitalPhotos.net"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I saw <a href="http://www.imom.com/espresso-minute/20-pillow-talk-questions-for-you-and-your-child/">Pillow Talk Questions for You and Your child</a> on Pinterest the other night and I just had to go and try out these questions with our boys. It was a humbling experience to hear some of their answers. Here are just a few that will forever be engraved in my mind…<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Lucida Handwriting;">What do you like to dream about?</span> </li>
</ul>
Lil Dude: I like dreaming about becoming a super hero and helping people<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Lucida Handwriting;">Who is your hero? Why?</span> </li>
</ul>
Lil G: My hero is my dad. He is wise and I like how he works helping kids.<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Lucida Handwriting;">How would you describe your family?</span> </li>
</ul>
Both: Crazy! Fun! and… sometimes Angry. (Ouch. It was super hard for me to swallow that one.)<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Lucida Handwriting;">If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?</span> </li>
</ul>
Lil G: Being timid and shy. I don’t like people thinking that I don’t want to be their friend...<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Lucida Handwriting;">What are you most proud of yourself for?</span> </li>
</ul>
Lil G: Trying new things like joining a Performing Arts class because I am really shy.<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Lucida Handwriting;">Who is the kindest person you know? Why?</span> </li>
</ul>
Lil Dude: My mom. She snuggles and watches tv shows with me even when I know she has a lot of things to do. (I melted right then and there)<br />
<br />
Afterwards, you can engage in a nice little Pillow Fight <img alt="Smile" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cNTH-LB7IX0/UGSJrpugcGI/AAAAAAAAG_s/oLRGwIFYfZk/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none;" /><br />
One thing for sure is that your kiddos will be honest. <span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Brutally</i></b></span> honest. I’ll admit that my sweetie and I have some work to do on the “Anger Management” department. But it felt really cool to hear their thoughts. These questions were so awesome and we did half of them the first night and the ten on the second night. By the third night they wanted more and I had to search for more ideas! So I encourage you to try this out with your kiddos. They are great conversation starters and you never know what they might say!Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-16006976288560028512012-09-25T08:17:00.000-07:002012-09-25T08:17:00.210-07:00Our Journey to Virtual School<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_R5j9ktlCIo/UFooeTzYjMI/AAAAAAAAGtA/INTX6jvkH_I/s1600-h/Virtual%252520School%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Virtual School" border="0" alt="Virtual School" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-v5tGq_omBZE/UFooihCa5rI/AAAAAAAAGtI/psWc03bIcKM/Virtual%252520School_thumb%25255B16%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="140" height="239"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TSfGsy8NShM/UFooje3YtEI/AAAAAAAAGtQ/RXSHB6jfM-E/s1600-h/virtual%252520school%252520lil%252520g%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="virtual school lil g" border="0" alt="virtual school lil g" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ENuZLJZe6Fo/UFooj3w7B3I/AAAAAAAAGtY/kKE0UNAFU78/virtual%252520school%252520lil%252520g_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> <p>Over the years we’ve homeschooled using a number of curriculums. Sonlight, Apologia, Bob Jones, Teaching Textbooks and… so many more! This past year we made a prayerful decision for our family to find a better balance. We decided to go VIRTUAL. Yep. I said it. We are now official charter school students in a virtual schooling world. </p> <p>We began our new journey in August and now that we are a month in, I have to say, I love it. We’ve been blessed with two amazing co-teachers for each of our boys (I call them co-teachers since I’m still the one teaching the lessons here at home). Connections Academy staff and teachers have been an amazing resource to me. <p>In the past years, I still wanted our boys to take the yearly standardized exams issued by the state. So even with a hodgepodge of curriculum choices, I made sure we were covering the relevant topics and used our state standards as my guide. Guess what?! We received Lil G’s scores last week and he received ah-mazing scores! He even received an “Exceeds” in Science! Insert proud mom beaming face here. So entering Connections Academy I wasn’t afraid that our boys were behind in any way. We just wanted to try something new that might be a better fit for our family. <p>So a quick Pros/Cons: <p>Pros <p>· I didn’t have to pay for the curriculum this year (we’ve spent an average of $700 each year on new curriculum. I know there are more budget friendly ways to homeschool on a shoestring budget, but we averaged this amount) <p>· I didn’t have to PLAN our lessons this year. As a result, I found myself to be WAY more creative. I’ve learned that I seem to have a limited amount of creative juices and after pouring all of it to my lesson PLANNING, I have a little bit of hard time finding extra teachable moments. However, since now the plans are laid out for me entirely, I find extra teachable moments. Sometimes during my very easy planning time (gathering materials for the lessons, reviewing what will be covered, etc.), I’ll pull resource books from our original homeschool library to supplement. This makes our learning WAY.MORE.FUN! <p>· We’ve been more accountable with our lessons. I’d say in the past years we would say… hmmm we’re having one of those days. Why don’t we double our lessons tomorrow? Let’s cut our lessons in half, why don’t we and go to the park ;) <p>· We got an extra FREE computer to use in our home. Yep. Free. <p>Cons (these cons are actually the cons given to me by my old homeschooling colleagues) <p>· We have to stick to “their” curriculum timeline. So not really flexible in jumping around. But hey, it’s all good. I’m finding no stumbling blocks there. <p>· “You are now not official homeschoolers. You are involving the government in your education. With a computer in your home, you now have Big Brother in your home.“ My response: “Um… ok?” <p>· “What?? Virtual schools don’t teach from a Christian Perspective? They don’t have Bible study in their curriculum?” Hmmm. I consider myself a Christ follower. I teach from my perspective. We complete our family bible study together. In our home. Quite frequently might I add. Thank you very much! <p>So, according to my ex-homeschooling colleagues I’m not an official homeschooler anymore according to “their” definition. We are “schooling at home.” I find it so disheartening when people have to judge or find a way of making people feel like they are inferior for personal decisions they’ve made in their lives. <p>Oh and one more thing. Next year, things might change. I love that about us. We find every year that we are evolving and progressing and finding out what works for us. Without compromising our values, of course. So for now, we are checking this Virtual Schooling out. And so far… I am loving it. <p>Anyone else trying out or tried out a Virtual Schooling program? </p> Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-24257550244926861112012-09-24T08:36:00.000-07:002012-09-24T08:36:00.862-07:00So Proud<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ciNj5BZNPqI/TqYzIJuK1cI/AAAAAAAACUA/KwAsxrjiD-U/s1600/My+pictures+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ciNj5BZNPqI/TqYzIJuK1cI/AAAAAAAACUA/KwAsxrjiD-U/s400/My+pictures+013.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
Ever do things as a ritual and don't stop to realize the bigger picture? I was visiting my sweetie at work and realized how crazy it was that he is now able to park in the "Reserved for Principal" parking spot. I stopped and had to take a picture. I know that my sweetie never thought in a million years he would be parking his car in such a spot. Not long ago he called himself a "knucklehead" who didn't know if he was even going to make it to eighteen years old. Even at 21, he was still lost. He told me that he had a life with nothing but prison or early death in his future. Now, he is parking his car in his reserved spot. <br />
<br />
It's amazing how God works, isn't it? I am so proud of my sweetie. He has worked very hard to get there. And while I know that these things are a wonderful testimony, I'm thoughtful about our own reserved spot in heaven. One reserved spot just for us that we don't even have to work hard for! Saved especially just for you! A reserved spot that is eternal.<br />
<br />
<span class="verse 1Pet_1_3"></span><br />
<i><span class="verse 1Pet_1_3">Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who <span class="trans" title="Gal. 6:16; Titus 3:5"></span>according to His abundant mercy</span></i><i> <span class="verse 1Pet_1_3">has begotten us again to a living hope <span class="trans" title="1 Cor. 15:20; 1 Pet. 3:21"></span>through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,</span><span class="verse 1Pet_1_4"><b></b> to an inheritance <span class="trans" title="imperishable">incorruptible</span> and undefiled and that does not fade away, <b><span class="trans" title="Col. 1:5">reserved</span></b> in heaven for you</span></i><br />
<i><span class="verse 1Pet_1_4"> </span></i><span class="verse 1Pet_1_3">1 Peter 1:3-4</span><br />
<br />
<span class="verse 1Pet_1_4">Have you made your reservation yet? </span><i><span class="verse 1Pet_1_4"><br />
</span></i><br />
<span class="verse 1Pet_1_3 selected"><b></b></span><span class="verse 1Pet_1_4 selected"><br />
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<a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=MamaDelights&loc=en_US">Subscribe to Mama Delights by Email</a>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-71313405619767994632012-09-21T09:05:00.000-07:002012-09-21T09:05:00.953-07:00Foto Friday<p>I got an exciting birthday present this past summer and I am still trying to get used to it. There is a steep learning curve with with this Canon Rebel T3i when all I’ve ever had to do with a camera before is point and shoot.</p> <p>I’m determined to take my new DSLR off the automatic mode this fall and I feel like I am studying for a final exam. I’m more of a person who likes someone to show me and teach me with this than trying to understand all the lingo on my own. Until then, I’m thankful for the automatic feature <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fIM36reMNHw/UFoX-pneqZI/AAAAAAAAGsA/h0_wuclr-X4/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800">.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OQvocwgNx1c/UFoX-1cwWEI/AAAAAAAAGsI/fK1Ky7z30qM/s1600-h/IMG_2482%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2482" border="0" alt="IMG_2482" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Iw5r5XLwu8w/UFoX_WD5KdI/AAAAAAAAGsQ/CDBqnGh0c0E/IMG_2482_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-54093594045015605612012-09-20T08:00:00.000-07:002012-09-20T08:00:00.099-07:00The Little Red Book of Wisdom<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OaNWvbqyn24/UFoc-J8cRLI/AAAAAAAAGso/GvCkHxKTbi8/s1600-h/Little%252520Red%252520Book%252520Cover%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Little Red Book Cover" border="0" alt="Little Red Book Cover" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ShtV_ZbsxBQ/UFoc-fhbCTI/AAAAAAAAGsw/7nSXARPZh2w/Little%252520Red%252520Book%252520Cover_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="144" height="219"></a></p> <p>This is a book I decided to try out from BookSneeze awhile ago and my review is long overdue. First of all, the title sounded interesting because wisdom is something I am almost always searching after. In fact, I think it is the one thing I always ask God to give me in my personal prayer life.</p> <p>The book promises small wisdom insights from famous people like Billy Graham and Nelson Mandela and not so famous people as well. The book is split in two with wisdom for professional life and the second half of the book is wisdom for personal life.</p> <p>Some of the wisdom incorporated in the book seemed like common knowledge but the author spins it in a way that can really keep you engaged and pondering. I love stories. In fact, that is how I teach our boys… with stories. So this is great. One chapter in particular that stands out to me is “Technology isn’t everything … learning to use it wisely.” I’m not sure how much I agreed with “Technology isn’t everything” as it seems that this is an era where we can’t live without a smart phone glued to our hand. However, I agree that we have to learn to use it wisely. In a household where each of us carry our own electronic device, I know I need to remind my boys these tidbits of wisdom to create a happy technological balanced life.</p> <p>The book seemed a little more geared toward men so I handed the book to my husband who really enjoys reading leadership books. He enjoyed the short chapters. It probably isn’t a true page turner, but can we can see picking it up to read a chapter a day or maybe a week. Even further, I can see passing down some these stories to our boys throughout life. </p> <p>Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."</p> Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-14774732237614830102012-09-19T09:11:00.002-07:002012-09-19T09:39:19.496-07:00HiatusI know, I know I've taken a hiatus from blogging for awhile. I had a huge work project in the last year and now well, I'm on a hiatus from work :)<br />
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I'm taking the time reconnecting with my roots of being what I love most and that's being mom, wife, homemaker, and planning for our new homeschooling year.<br />
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I'm not necessarily sure when work will pick up again, but in the meantime I'm loving this break. It's taking every ounce of me to not try to fill up my plate again with other things during this work break and focusing on the beautiful things in life.<br />
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This year, we had an AMAZING summer. And that is a lot to say. I will admit that for the past 7 years or so, the thought of summer always made me want to throw up in my mouth. Being a wife of a school teacher and surviving on one income meant we stretched every dime, nickel, penny to make it through the summer. My sweetie always opted for the lump some paycheck at the end of the school year and we would be super diligent in making it last. This is where I learned to be the most super frugal woman shopper and budget stretcher crazy madwoman.<br />
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One summer, my sweetie was working on his residency status on his doctorates degree and I ended up working the summer at Starbucks. I looked at it as a temporary research assignment as I had developed a passion for coffee that year. Amazingly, it almost turned out to be a career when his position as a teacher and his new position as a school administrator was in limbo. Ugh! Just remembering that makes me want to hurl again.<br />
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About 4 summers ago is when I miscarried. The summer before that, my grandfather passed away. Oh and the summer before that, my father passed away. So you get the idea. I never liked our summers.<br />
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But, this past summer was awesome. We had a Washington DC vacation and ended up staying also in Utah and Nevada.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lil Dude in front of White House</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lil G in front of Washington Monument</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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That's what I LOVE about homeschooling ya know? We studied American History all year and got to actually see it in action. Hearing my boys making connections with what we learned and talked about to what they were seeing in person was such a blessing!<br />
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I'm hoping to keep up with the blogging again. For now, reflecting on the past summer has got me all smiles today and I just wanted to share.<br />
<a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=MamaDelights&loc=en_US">Subscribe to Mama Delights by Email</a>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-7733012922823025852011-10-24T20:25:00.000-07:002011-10-24T20:25:35.729-07:00Lil G's Baptism<div>Less than a month ago, Lil G asked if he could be baptized. My heart melted. I pray daily that I don't screw up royally with God entrusting me in raising these little men. I know that I am raising future men and it is so important to me that they know Jesus. I strive daily to go beyond comfort and personal boundaries when it comes to being their mommy. It's moments like this when my heart is filled and I feel like all the daily sacrifices are so worth it. <i>Thank you Lord for blessing me with these beautiful babies. Thank you for guiding me and teaching me how to be a compassionate, loving mama full of grace. Thank you for my lil' delights!</i><br />
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</div>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-91464518010080897002011-10-22T15:11:00.000-07:002011-10-22T15:11:17.117-07:00My brother's WeddingLast week we were busy with my brother's wedding. It was awesome to catch up with family and be part of my brother's special day. On this lazy Saturday, I thought I'd post some pictures... Enjoy!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">dolled up for the occasion</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful cake!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys with their great-grandma</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jQBX_QJBv10/TqM-f-noDzI/AAAAAAAACTo/AB6S9eVmmCU/s1600/wedding+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jQBX_QJBv10/TqM-f-noDzI/AAAAAAAACTo/AB6S9eVmmCU/s320/wedding+044.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcoming our new sister to our crazy family!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My handsome little brother (the groom) waiting for his bride :o)</td></tr>
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<a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=MamaDelights&loc=en_US">Subscribe to Mama Delights by Email</a>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-14263958182977196612011-10-07T15:40:00.000-07:002011-10-07T15:40:56.598-07:00New Milestones!I fondly remember when the boys were little, we would celebrate every little milestone. When they were babies, things like "first smile, first time sitting up, first time crawling, walking..." were such a big deal! As the boys grew, it seems like there weren't so many milestones anymore. Of course there are some (we celebrated going to first grade recently with Lil Dude, and Nani decided to get baptized), it just seems to not happen so often as when it's the baby's first years. You know?<br />
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So, when we went to our well check yesterday, I was excited that the doctor mentioned that Nani will need to see an eye doctor. Since my sweetie and I wore glasses, we knew that it was inevitable that the boys would probably have to too. It was just a matter of when. I totally know my little guy will be rocking those glasses!<br />
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Then, lil Dude declared he wanted to learn to ride without training wheels. With the gorgeous weather we have been having in Arizona, today was a perfect day to do just that. I am so grateful that my amazing friend Julie decided to join us. It was a great excuse to be able to see her and the girls too :o)<br />
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I managed to take video of Lil Dude's first ride all on his own. He learned on the FIRST DAY! Talk about determination! So proud!<br />
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<a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=MamaDelights&loc=en_US">Subscribe to Mama Delights by Email</a>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-87314540735899496482011-09-28T17:20:00.003-07:002011-10-04T22:28:46.244-07:00Homeschool year 2011-2012<div><div>I am finally getting around to posting this year's plans even though we began way back in August! This year we decided to enroll in a homeschool enrichment program and the boys are really enjoying it. They attend one day a week and their classes include: Arizona's plants and animals, Public speaking, Digital animation, PE, Music, and much more. This gives me a chance to (sort of) plan the rest of the week and prepare lessons. Although lately, I have using this time to volunter at hubby's school instead. <br />
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For math, we began using Teaching Textbooks and we <i>LOVE</i> it! I enjoy the fact that I don't have to do the lessons anymore and now I provide more of a support system. We were really beginning to butt heads in math and this helped a WHOLE lot.<br />
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We are also doing some online coursework through our local school district and that's helping too! Lil Dude is doing math and Nani is doing Language Arts. What is really awesome about this is that we get to spend more time doing our sonlight history curriculum when they complete their studies. I almost feel that I split myself into two :-) <br />
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For science we are in a co-op studying sharks. It is a ten week curriculm which will take us through November. We are also in cub scouts so our plates are pretty full. <br />
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</div>Every year I begin to wonder if this will be our last year homeschooling. In the meantime, I make sure to enjoy the moment and realize what a blessing it is to be able to teach my boys!</div>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-19105385614810544992011-09-26T20:55:00.000-07:002011-09-26T20:55:54.883-07:00Women of Faith<div><div>This weekend I got to attend the Women of Faith conference in Phx with my awesome sister. It was such a great experience! Not only have I been applying many of the principles I've learned at the conference, I feel refreshed with a new perspective in life. <br />
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On Friday morning, we began with wonderful music by the WOF worship team. Then, Andy Andrews and Patsy Clairmont took the stage with great principles to live by. Patsy gave us homework and that is to wake up each morning and say "yes" to Jesus and "thank you." Most importantly, it is to say "no" to the people and things that would take away from our important priorities. To help gauge whether it is ok to say no, the litmus test is, "if it divides your heart and use up your energy (not enough for your family), it is a good indication that you need to say no." I must admit that was the hardest lesson for me. But I really like her next advice, "no, is a COMPLETE sentence!" I love that. As many women probably can relate, I feel that I would need to justify my "no" and feel terribly guilty about it. Her last piece of wisdom that will be my new mantra, is that "your will is stronger than your emotion."<br />
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Andy Andrews was equally enlightening! I have been more aware of what I am exposing myself to as a result of his message. It is so true about how whatever you take in is what comes out. I think of all the television shows out there. I would much rather read a great book than mindlessly watch t.v. knowing full well it is not helping me. On a side note, (I easily get distracted lol) have you seen Lowes' new commercial? It is so cute that it always gets me all choked up. Well their new tagline is "never stop improving." Andy Andrews' session really makes me think that way. There is so much about myself I would like to improve. Thanks to his session, I am definitely going to start reading much more :-)<br />
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We had a break for lunch and continued for our sessions. Our lunch was so cute I had to snap a picture.<br />
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We returned that evening to more worship and what would be the higlight of the event for me. We got to hear Brenda Warner speak! Her whole family was in the audience supporting her. As I mentioned in my blog post <a href="http://mamadelights.blogspot.com/2011/09/one-call-away.html">here</a>, I recently read her book. While much of what she spoke about was in the book, I felt we were sitting around the table sipping coffee as she told her story. I love her transparency and humilty! Nobody is perfect and she sure does not claim to be. Though, I wouldn't mind having her as a mommy mentor. I mean, did you know she has 7 kids?! I have 2 and most days I think I am going to be insane. I would love to pick her brain! She mentioned a saying that she makes her kids repeat each morning. I know it comes from the scripture Deuteronomy 28 in reference to blessings. So cute! Now I have my boys recite their life verses each morning. I picked one for each one of our boys that relates to them. For our oldest, it is 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline."<br />
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For little dude, because he has a gift of speaking...(he talks a lot) :-) it is... Proverbs 31:8 NLT <br />
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed."<br />
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Saturday at WOF was wonderful and inspiring as well. It was my shopping day too and I came home with goodies for all three of my favorite boys (my sweetie got a book too). I am grateful for my sweetie for taking the days off so that I can attend. Also, thanks to booksneeze for the free tickets! <br />
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<img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jzk9RXn-zZk/ToE0dcXPnPI/AAAAAAAACS0/JiN254wFlV4/1316805552905.png" /></div>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-59846234243737031162011-09-18T21:34:00.003-07:002011-09-18T21:55:10.231-07:00Hermie the Common Catepillar<div>Tonight while putting the boys to bed, I promised them a special bed time story if they would get to bed early. I had just ordered this book through Booksneeze as an e-book and was anxious to try it out on our e-reader.<br />
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Hermie the Common Catepillar is a classic Max Lucado book. I was introduced to Lucado's books just last year when a homeschool friend was having a book sale. We purchased a few of his books and found them to be great children's stories that incorporated Christian principles. In Hermie: the Common Catepillar, Hermie questions why he can't be special like the others. He feels that he is so common and because of his relationship with God, he communicates this problem with Him. I love how God answers Hermie's question the same way each time. He is told by God that he is loved and that God was not finished with him yet. I feel that this book is a great example of how we are all created for a special purpose and how we do not need to compare ourselves to others. Further, it teaches patience for our little ones. I loved the expression in my little one's eyes as he learns Hermie's special dream fulfilled greater than he imagined. This story is a great read and my boys loved it. We give it five stars for the beautiful illustrations and even more, the lesson and conversation that followed after reading the story. <br />
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http: booksneeze®.com=""> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http: 16cfr255_03.html="" cfr="" nara="" waisidx_03="" www.access.gpo.gov=""> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” <br />
<img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RJ0ObtTwgFA/TnbJx3miPhI/AAAAAAAACRs/2gYfk5BTLg4/_140_245_Book.456.cover.png" /></http:></http:></div>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-87842266952716266492011-09-14T19:22:00.001-07:002011-09-14T19:22:09.672-07:00One Call Away<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WOFyGhtTUkI/TnFhT5MzKSI/AAAAAAAACRk/Om3_B62RKGM/s1600-h/image%25255B2%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9MOjT4nzmFk/TnFhUDU0qWI/AAAAAAAACRo/pRstwWGU9JE/image_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="144" height="214"></a></p> <p>I just finished reading One Call Away by Brenda Warner and was so fascinated about the resiliency and faith she had throughout her life. A few years ago my sweetie brought home a gift he received which was a book about Kurt Warner. As I thumbed through the book, I loved learning about his passion for Christ, his family, and his career. That was when I truly became a die hard Cardinals fan, and I watched how his leadership brought the Cardinals to the Super Bowl. After he retired, he was part of my favorite show, Dancing with the Stars. I remember shaking my head and thought “How could any wife be ok with their husband dancing with a near naked woman like that?” You would have to read the book, because I love how she explains her growth there.</p> <p>I always say, “behind every good man, there is a great woman” and I knew that Brenda would have a story to go along with Kurt’s amazing story. One Call Away details how Brenda answered <em>every </em>call, as devastating it may be (her son’s tragic injury, betrayal and divorce, and the passing of her parents) with a faith so profound that it made me question my own. Brenda writes this book in such a candid and transparent way, I felt that she was sitting down having coffee with me, telling her life story. While reading the book, there were times that I would laugh… throw my hand over my mouth in shock... and then cry.</p> <p>I crave gleaning wisdom from Christian women who are quick to admit that they aren’t perfect, but that they are loved and learning from our Perfect Lord. It was like Brenda was giving me words of wisdom through her book and I could learn from her experiences. Most importantly, I will always remember that when it seems things are spinning out of control…God is in control. What stood out to me most is the difference from “needing a man” and “wanting a man.” As a domestic violence advocate, I have seen so many women who thought they “needed” a man in their life and therefore would withstand all sorts of abuse. I pray that women everywhere can learn that difference. </p> <p>Her chapters “Giant Letdowns” and “Phoenix Rising” was healing for me personally. I have gone through the pain of a miscarriage and it gave me sense of hope and trust that our God is a God of restoration. It may not seem like anything we had planned or even thought about, but our Lord will restore. In His time, in His hour. I would just need to surrender and Trust in Him so that my Lord can take over.</p> <p>I give the book five stars. I really enjoyed Brenda Warner’s book and now will always be ready to answer God’s divine Calling at any time.</p> <p>Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the <a href="http://booksneeze%c2%ae.com/">BookSneeze®.com</a> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.</p> Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-1310745822414953812011-08-28T08:40:00.000-07:002011-08-28T08:40:34.406-07:00Inked<div><div>For my birthday this summer, I wanted a tattoo. I know, I know it sounds crazy but it was something I had in mind for quite a while. So... This year I did some research.. A LOT of research and mostly had to do with things like safety, referrals, placement... You name it, I researched it. I also asked a lot of questions from people who had tattoos. Things like, regrets, what they would do differently, etc. I loved learning about why people got their permanent inks, and what they would do differently. <br />
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You see, I knew I wanted something extremely signifcant and special. I wanted something to represent my adorable husband of eleven years. But how can I choose what to wear to the grave when I can't even choose what outfit to wear each day? I knew it would have to be something that I absolutely loved.<br />
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I thought a lot about what I loved. I love my family and I adore my hubby. Also, I love birds. My love for birds originates from the scripture found in Matthew 6:26 that deals with worry. "Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are?"<br />
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In AZ we have many beautiful birds, and love to see them soaring. I get so excited and point them out to my boys every time. I was memorized when I saw the rare bald eagle while fishing this summer. When there is a bird around, I love to stop and think about how God made each one. I am so facinated with the freedom of birds. It makes me think how effortlessly they fly and soar through our vast skies. My theory is that it is so easy fo fly when you have no worries :-).<br />
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One bird that has captivated me is the Quetzal. It is a beautiful bird found in Guatemala (where my hubby is from). The quetzal has gorgeous, striking colors and a long, long tail. I have never seen anything like it. The quetzal in particular has been used as a symbol of liberty. This is because it has been said that it would kill itself when in captivity or caged. I relate this to my freedom in Christ. Held in bondage or captivity is like suicide. You see where I am going here?<br />
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So, I decided what I wanted was a quetzal. A quetzal with my sweetie's name on it. I went into a recommended tatto place and chatted briefly with the artist. She smiled and said she knew exactly what bird I was talking about. <br />
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We made an appointment to go over the artwork. I had in my hands a whole bunch of images I googled. I wanted it to look dainty and feminine. I thought I would have to walk in and walk her through what I liked and didn't liked. I went into her office and found her in the midst of sketching some ideas. I was so amazed! I didn't even have to make a single change. She knew exactly what I was looking for and her sketch was perfect!<br />
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I came in the next day for my appointment nervous and excited. I knew it would hurt, but how bad? She estimated it would take 3 hours. I laid on the table, and braced myself. When I heard the sound of the machine, I cringed. I hate needles and here I am getting a tattoo? Man I am nuts! Once she began, I thought, hmmm not so bad. But now there was no going back. I was going to sit here for the next three hours. That's longer than a movie, oh my gosh. 2 1/2 hours later, I didn't think I could take it anymore. It hurt so dang bad! That is when she said, "Ok, you are all done now." What? Seriously? Thank God! She gave me a mirror and I took a look. I remember watching the reaction of people who got their tattoos on the LA Ink show. I would watch it as part of my "research." They always freaked out and would even hug their tattoo artist they just met. I always thought it was cheesy. But when I saw mine, I reacted no different. I squealed with delight and hugged her. I guess I am cheesy too:-)<br />
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My sweetie snapped a picture of the "fresh tattoo." I love it!<br />
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<img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Mt7tEXOokFY/TlmXfXnndDI/AAAAAAAACRc/zK_HwZTAquI/IMG_20110713_164827.png" /></div></div>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-38018220875829324312011-08-27T17:20:00.001-07:002011-08-27T18:39:48.629-07:00Women of Faith in AZ<div>I am sooo excited! Last year, I had the exciting opportunity to attend the Women of Faith Conference. It was a whopping 75 dollars, however, well worth it. I so wanted to attend this year again and when I saw that Women of Faith was offering tickets for bloggers, I threw in my name, never once thinking I would actually be one of the lucky ones chosen. You can imagine my surprise when I found in my mailbox two tickets to this year's conference! I am so excited!
Also, we have started our new homeschool year and I am gearing up to sharing some of the activities we are doing. Stay tuned...
<a href="http://www.womenoffaith.com/overthetop/"><img src="http://www.womenoffaith.com/banners/11/WOF2011_OTT_468x60.png" border="0"/></a>
</div>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-56769297784592434432011-06-12T08:15:00.000-07:002011-06-12T08:15:00.290-07:00Faith SOAP<p>It has been awhile. I know. I don’t want to have fill in all the details, just have been very busy! My SOAP today just made me feel like it is something that needed to be shared.</p> <p>S: Hebrews 11:6 And without Faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe He exists and that He rewards anyone who earnestly seeks Him.</p> <p>O: In this chapter we are reminded of all the people in the Bible who had faith. They were commended for the actions they committed that showed that faith. Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, etc. Even Rahab the prostitute was mentioned. These are people who also didn’t always make the right choices yet they are given to us as examples of commendable faith. Amazing isn’t it? Sometimes Christians think that true Christians have to be perfect and that is so untrue. I love reading how the most impactful people are those that are just plain human.</p> <p>A: I am so grateful that we are reminded how important it is to have faith though we must understand that even those who had the greatest of faith did not receive all that was promised (Hebrews 11:39). I will be different today by reading this because I am going to remind myself that it is important to have faith even when the enemy tries to plant lies and doubts in my head. This particular reading helped me because last night I was beginning to worry about sending my oldest to camp. Will he be ok? What if he gets lost? What if no one watches him like I watch him? What if he doesn’t make any friends? What if… this? What if … that? It was such a sinking and terrible feeling. This reading helped me remember that I must have faith. Sending him to camp is the best investment of $250 we could ever spend. He will receive an experience he will forever remember. My Lord knows my concerns and I must have faith that he will see me through that week. Thank you Jesus!</p> <p>Prayer: Lord, thank you for that whip of reminder that it is not for me to worry but to have faith. Thank you for providing me examples of what faith is and how to have it. I hope that one day I will also be commended for having great faith through everything. I love you Lord, you are so amazing! In Jesus Name, Amen.</p> Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-3517185535885238592011-03-04T15:49:00.001-07:002011-03-04T15:49:54.065-07:00Homeschool Week in Review<a href="http://www.thehomeschoolchick.com/p/about-homeschool-mothers-journal.html" target="_blank"><img alt="The Homeschool Mother's Journal" src="http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz84/SueQGal/HSMJgraphic.jpg"></a> <p><b>In my life this week...</b></p><strong></strong> <p>I’m making progress in my personal Bible study and SOAP time. I get really hard on myself when I get angry easily. I know that it’s more about making progress and not perfection. I’m not perfect but I can work every day to get better and better!</p> <p><br><b>In our homeschool this week...</b></p><strong></strong> <p>Lil Dude didn’t have to do school because he wasn’t feeling well. </p> <p>Lil G decided that he wanted to start school earlier (9am) so that he could finish earlier (about 2pm) and have more playing time. I am proud of his initiative though it means that my mommy time is either cut shorter or I’d have to wake up earlier. That’s ok though, I am super proud of his perseverance!</p> <p>We also celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday by reading every book we own written by him. </p> <p><br><b>Places we're going and people we're seeing...</b></p><strong></strong> <p>We went on our Cub Scout geocaching field trip today! I love taking the boys on field trips to experience the beautiful wonders that our Lord created just for us to enjoy!</p> <p><br><b>My favorite thing this week was...</b></p><strong></strong> <p>Though my little one was sick this week, my favorite part was cuddling with him! I also thanked God that I wouldn’t have to worry about “calling in sick” from work to care for my little one, or wondering if I should send my child to school. I know many moms have to face that turmoil and it breaks my heart because I understand it is very hard. I thanked God for that privilege and choice that we have and prayed for mommies who have to go through that. </p> <p><br><b>What's working/not working for us...</b></p> <p>The Handwriting without Tears curriculum is really working wonders! Lil G’s handwriting is like night and day. We are currently working on our second book now and it is a bit more difficult but that’s ok. Trying to break old habits is very hard and I try to remind him that you don’t form new habits over night. <br><b></b></p> <p><b>Homeschool questions/thoughts I have...</b></p> <p>How does a mom manage their day with homeschooling, cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, etc.? I feel that I am always behind!</p> <p><strong>A photo, video, link, or quote to share...</strong></p> <p><strong></strong> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TXFsjeW5tkI/AAAAAAAACPo/b5RqtKxy5bs/s1600-h/DSCF6606%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="HWT practice" border="0" alt="Lil Dude working on HWT" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TXFsj0j0FtI/AAAAAAAACPs/w_RfBkelPUo/DSCF6606_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>Lil Dude working on HWT <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TXFskajsETI/AAAAAAAACPw/NyTl7yn4PPo/wlEmoticon-smile%5B2%5D.png?imgmax=800"></p> <p><em>The Homeschool Mother’s Journal link up is hosted by </em><a href="http://www.thehomeschoolchick.com/2011/02/homeschool-mothers-journal-6.html#" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Homeschool Chick</a><em></em><em>. You can click the link to see how you can participate or to read other link ups.</em></p> Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-80814443309732237112011-03-01T12:31:00.001-07:002011-03-01T12:31:03.493-07:00Book Review: Same Life, New Story<p>I am so excited! I completed my first book to review. The most amazing thing is that I will forever remember this book as my first one blogger book review and how it personally impacted me. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TW1Jc5B5nMI/AAAAAAAACPc/8UOa8wd6uPE/s1600-h/Same%20Life%2C%20New%20Story%20book%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Same Life, New Story book" border="0" alt="Same Life, New Story book" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TW1Jde_2HnI/AAAAAAAACPg/L5NcBLgRyho/Same%20Life%2C%20New%20Story%20book_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="161" height="244"></a></p> <p>Same Life, New Story by Jan Silvious is a 10-week Bible Study for Women. I loved the women in the bible stories that Jan Silvious chose to make her point. There was Esther (my personal favorite), Naomi, Hannah, Leah, Deborah and even ones I wasn’t too familiar with like Jehosheba, Anna, and Naamon’s servant girl. Each one of these women left a legacy because of their willingness to take risks and change their life story. While the biblical stories in the book helped me think about the way my own personal story is being written, I especially liked the modern stories that were included as well. I am glad that the author chose to include parallel’s to the biblical women heroes with modern women heroes. </p> <p>The personal reflection and group discussion questions were helpful at the end of each chapter. It makes a great option for one to complete the book on their own (like I did) or with a group. As you complete each personal reflection, it allows you to dig deep within your soul and to pull out the weeds that are inhibiting your own personal growth to develop a positive new story for your life. </p> <p>I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. I loved the way it made me think. It made me think about my own life and gave me a fresh look at how God is the author of my story. </p> <p>Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the <a href="http://BookSneeze®.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">BookSneeze®.com</a> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.</p> Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-17531215932345374432011-02-28T18:17:00.001-07:002011-02-28T18:17:59.022-07:00Melting Mama MomentUnfortunately, we've been hit again. This weekend my Lil Dude came down with croup. It's been a long time since he had croup and the last time he was sick (which was only less than a couple weeks ago), it wasn't as bad as what he has come down with now. I feel like I have a toddler again and I am certainly enjoying the moment. He only wants mama and nothing else will do. While I feel so badly that he doesn't feel well, I am loving being needed and snuggling with my "baby."<br />
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Last night, while we were cuddling on the couch, he looked at me in the eye and said, "Mama, I'm so glad to have you taking care of me. You are the best."<br />
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I melted right then and there. <br />
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<a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=MamaDelights&loc=en_US">Subscribe to Mama Delights by Email</a>Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-36838061523807313332011-02-23T08:10:00.001-07:002011-02-23T08:10:54.550-07:00Salt Writing<p> </p> <p>We’ve been working our way through the Handwriting Without Tears Curriculum and I noticed Lil Dude still having trouble on where to start his letters. The HWT curriculum has a great CD with a song that reminds you to start your letters at the top and we sing that all the time. But even though we sing it, point to the Happy Face on our door corner, and much more, Lil Dude always wants to start his letters at the bottom! </p> <p>So, I decided to break away from writing on paper and go back to some preschool basics. I brought out a cookie sheet and poured salt on there. This was <font size="5">way</font> fun. To erase, you only have to shake the cookie sheet just a little. It reminded me of the old school Etch a Sketch toys, only better!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TWUjeS2jWUI/AAAAAAAACPA/THMcEwocG_E/s1600-h/DSCF6602%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCF6602" border="0" alt="DSCF6602" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TWUjeuoKYQI/AAAAAAAACPE/BDTG4r-J5Bk/DSCF6602_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TWUjfPBeciI/AAAAAAAACPI/K3O5r5E2_sg/s1600-h/DSCF6601%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCF6601" border="0" alt="DSCF6601" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TWUjfeb7MjI/AAAAAAAACPM/vkRSk0crMD4/DSCF6601_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>Lil Dude had fun with the salt cookie sheet activity. He even says he doesn’t remember doing this when he was smaller!</p> <p>Which serves as my homeschool reminder for the week. Just because my kiddos aren’t preschool aged anymore, it doesn’t mean that all those fun activities I did when they were smaller doesn’t apply anymore. I can always bring back the basics when I need them!</p> Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7024317247460375447.post-66331564083764728662011-02-17T09:11:00.000-07:002011-02-17T09:11:14.766-07:00Homeschool Frog Unit StudyThis week the boys and I worked on a Frog and Toad Unit Study and it was a whole lotta fun!<br />
We read:<br />
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and completed a study on Frogs with this fun activity book and Frog model:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-86yB2IVvOno/TV1Hc7Ni6MI/AAAAAAAACO0/G7kgSejmmPE/s1600/DSCF6609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-86yB2IVvOno/TV1Hc7Ni6MI/AAAAAAAACO0/G7kgSejmmPE/s320/DSCF6609.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TV1GHTBz6GI/AAAAAAAACN0/SfDGhJNCApY/s1600-h/DSCF6609%5B7%5D.jpg"><br />
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Lil G and Lil Dude spent an hour putting this model of a Frog together…<br />
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Lil Dude also helped me make a map on the feelings of Toad throughout the stories.<br />
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And began to write about his favorite Frog and Toad story.<br />
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He mentions that he did not like the ending of the story called, “A swim” because the way his own friend laughed at him. So he decided to tell me a new ending for the story in which Frog apologizes for laughing at Toad in his bathing suit and they begin to read a book together <img alt="Smile" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TV1GKhabdbI/AAAAAAAACOU/xZSQzqqQDA0/wlEmoticon-smile%5B2%5D.png?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none;" />.<br />
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Lil G worked on a booklet on Parts of a Frog to put in his lap book.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TV1GK2GaEXI/AAAAAAAACOY/rHvdMKg0Yo8/s1600-h/DSCF6621%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSCF6621" border="0" height="184" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TV1GLBiQszI/AAAAAAAACOc/ez8gnYk9VFs/DSCF6621_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px none; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSCF6621" width="244" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TV1GL8cv1gI/AAAAAAAACOg/wh-AfiD0Nwo/s1600-h/DSCF6620%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSCF6620" border="0" height="244" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PoS2MTh3ZcE/TV1GMMedS8I/AAAAAAAACOo/HZPen7RaZaA/DSCF6620_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px none; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSCF6620" width="184" /></a></div>Lil Dude also did math addition problem with buttons that correlated with the story, “The Lost Button” from the frog and toad book.<br />
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Lastly, we watched videos about frogs in Arizona and learned more about a very special frog that is near and dear to my heart. Which is called the Coqui. This is a special Puerto Rican frog that can be heard throughout Puerto Rico.<br />
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A fun homeschool week for us! We more than made up for being sick last week. I think after the kind of week we had last week, we were anxious and ready to get back into our homeschool routine!Carmenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04532438742198949904noreply@blogger.com3