Before Mark and I left for Colorado we had been praying for a church to be a part of. A church where we fit in and felt at home. After coming to Colorado we moved into the little town of Golden and we found a church that felt like home, it was a dream come true. Mark and I have been apart of the church for 6 years now and its been wonderful, but something happened. It happened slowly and in ways we didn't catch on to in the beginning. The more we have been listening to other pastors via You Tube, the more we realized what direction our church was going. At first we prayed, hoping this would be enough to change the direction as mainly what has been holding us back from leaving is the relationships we have made. We have been mentioning various things to our friends, but sadly they have not caught on. To some of the obvious things congregation members have spoken out, like extra loud music or the burning of incense at a new building dedication, but the teachings I am only aware of two people. One was a missionary that we liked and the other was a man we did not know. These two men sent a letter to the congregation. At the time I was not aware what they were talking about. It seemed more of a personal thing, but I have kept the warning tucked into my heart. I have also noticed that other people have left the church, they just stopped coming. One person that left, I saw her at a mutual friend's birthday party. I asked why she left and she would not say, only that it was time and still yet another person that left had the same response.
But things came to a head for us just recently as the church decided to start small groups. They had a sign up for it, but did not say what the small groups would be studying. Then our usual update letter from the church came and Mark & I found out why the Lord led us not to sign up. And why the Lord did not lead me to become a more integral part of women's ministries. In that newsletter we were informed that these small groups would be doing "The Purpose Driven Life". That is the moment the Lord called Mark & I out. Last night the Lord sent us a message given through a teacher on You Tube. The message said that we cannot let relationship keep us from separating we must put Jesus FIRST. It spoke directly to our hearts! The Lord told us we cannot be lukewarm and thus have Him spew us out of His mouth. On top of that, the Lord told us it is not only good to remove ourselves, but we must confront. So we are working on what we will say. We are not good at putting our opposition into words and backing it up as all we know is that we want to follow Jesus and His Word. If you read this, please pray for us and those we are confronting. Thank you!
Thursday, December 22, 2016
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
To a certain person...
I've been trying, but there has been so much heartache. There is a certain person who stalks my blog and whenever I share about my experiences regarding this person, I get slammed. I've catered to this person in order to have a better relationship, but it has not helped. So I've made a decision that there is no way to please this person. I've decided that I am going to do whatever I want on this blog and talk about whatever I want. You know that song from the movie "Frozen"? Yes, I am going to "Let It GO!"
But instead of listening to Disney's "Frozen", I rather should investigate what the Bible says about people that have chosen to be an enemy. Matthew 5:43-45 says:
You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.…
Romans 12:17-19 says:
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”…
So dear person who views me as an enemy, I am going to be praying for you. After all this whole thing is a spiritual issue and not of flesh and blood. And I am going to abstain from the temptation to repay evil for evil. When that temptation arises, I will not avenge myself, but rather leave that to the Lord.
But instead of listening to Disney's "Frozen", I rather should investigate what the Bible says about people that have chosen to be an enemy. Matthew 5:43-45 says:
You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.…
Romans 12:17-19 says:
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”…
So dear person who views me as an enemy, I am going to be praying for you. After all this whole thing is a spiritual issue and not of flesh and blood. And I am going to abstain from the temptation to repay evil for evil. When that temptation arises, I will not avenge myself, but rather leave that to the Lord.
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
Life Update
Its a new month so that means its time for an update. October turned out to be loaded with Autumn fun. Oh my!
As for other goings on? Well, my sweet 14-year old Dusty kitty had to have two teeth pulled. She kept yowling through the house at night. I finally looked up why cats yowl and it said sometimes it can be because they are in pain. So I finally scheduled a vet appointment and at the exam it was found that her teeth needing cleaning. Once they got in there they found it was worse. Poor dear kitty, I feel so bad that I let her suffer so long. Now she is eating much better and no longer yowling in the middle of the night.
And yet another going on was me dealing with my laptop. Sigh. The machine was being totally annoying and then all the sudden the battery would not recharge. Once that happened more annoying things went on. Finally the battery died and we just took it out and the machine has been fine. My original battery lasted about 2 1/2 years. Mark got me a new battery and it only lasted 6 months. Anyway, I thought its time for a new laptop as I've been using mine for 3 years nonstop. So we went out and got one of the new solid state Lenvonos. Well, I was just beginning to like how fast and lightweight it was when IT started acting up! It kept going dead. So we took it back and I am just using my old laptop with it plugged in. So that is the saga on that. As the saying goes, "Life happens!" ;-)
We took our grandson to the mountains to see the Autumn colors.
Then to the pumpkin patch to pick out a pumpkin.
Then in the backyard to play in the fallen leaves.
Its definitely been a fun packed Autumn.
And yet another going on was me dealing with my laptop. Sigh. The machine was being totally annoying and then all the sudden the battery would not recharge. Once that happened more annoying things went on. Finally the battery died and we just took it out and the machine has been fine. My original battery lasted about 2 1/2 years. Mark got me a new battery and it only lasted 6 months. Anyway, I thought its time for a new laptop as I've been using mine for 3 years nonstop. So we went out and got one of the new solid state Lenvonos. Well, I was just beginning to like how fast and lightweight it was when IT started acting up! It kept going dead. So we took it back and I am just using my old laptop with it plugged in. So that is the saga on that. As the saying goes, "Life happens!" ;-)
Thursday, October 13, 2016
Looking at Diets/Ways of Eating
Have you heard about the "Starch Solution" diet? Have you heard of the "Ketogenic diet? Both diets are popular and have claims to health. I've tried a little of both. Haven't been a 100% follower of either, but have tried to apply them in my daily living at seperate times.
The "Ketogenic diet" is a low carb/high fat diet. The fat has to be the right kind: Grass-fed butter, coconut oil, olive oil, avocados & nuts. It promotes lots of veggies and a moderate amounts of protein from eggs, meat & dairy.
The "Starch Solution" diet is low fat/high carb. It minimizes fat & eliminates protein and fuels the body with whole carbohydrates in the form of fruits, starchy veggies & grains. Basically, this diet is vegan.
The Ketogenic diet says that "fat" is a better way to fuel your body. It claims that starch is a dirty fuel and causes inflammation because it becomes sugar in your body thus causing a spike in insulin. Where as the "starch" diet claims that humans are meant to thrive on a starch based diet as it is healing and that animal fat and protein are toxic to the body.
As the saying goes: opposites attract? Definitely, these diets are opposite of one another, but they do have things they agree on. 1) that we need to eat plenty of veggies and 2) that sugar & processed foods cause inflammation and need to be severely restricted or eliminated. And there is another interesting tidbit I found in reviewing both of these diets. The Keto diet says that sugar & fat are a lethal combo. Since it promotes "fat" you have to eliminate sugar. And the "Starch Solution" diet promotes the starch (which turns to sugar) and eliminates "fat". Very interesting!
Then I have heard that you can combine the two diets. Eat low carb/high fat for breakfast & lunch and for dinner eat carbs (potatoes, yams, whole grains). This appeals to me as I do enjoy potatoes. And it is my understanding that it is possible to eat starchy stuff (whole carbs) as long as you eat veggie fiber. As the veggie fiber will trap the sugars and help slow the insulin reaction. Then there is the 80/20 rule which says that eating healthy 80% of the time and only straying 20% is enough to keep you in the healthy zone.
Anyway, my personal revelation is still forth coming as I have more eating to do. However, I am convinced that I do need to cut way back on sugary and refined carbs. That will definitely be enough of a project on its own as I am very in love with hot buttered toast with jam and I can assure you that will not be leaving my diet anytime soon. And the jury is still out on how much green stuff my bowel will tolerate. I will keep you posted.
The "Ketogenic diet" is a low carb/high fat diet. The fat has to be the right kind: Grass-fed butter, coconut oil, olive oil, avocados & nuts. It promotes lots of veggies and a moderate amounts of protein from eggs, meat & dairy.
The "Starch Solution" diet is low fat/high carb. It minimizes fat & eliminates protein and fuels the body with whole carbohydrates in the form of fruits, starchy veggies & grains. Basically, this diet is vegan.
The Ketogenic diet says that "fat" is a better way to fuel your body. It claims that starch is a dirty fuel and causes inflammation because it becomes sugar in your body thus causing a spike in insulin. Where as the "starch" diet claims that humans are meant to thrive on a starch based diet as it is healing and that animal fat and protein are toxic to the body.
As the saying goes: opposites attract? Definitely, these diets are opposite of one another, but they do have things they agree on. 1) that we need to eat plenty of veggies and 2) that sugar & processed foods cause inflammation and need to be severely restricted or eliminated. And there is another interesting tidbit I found in reviewing both of these diets. The Keto diet says that sugar & fat are a lethal combo. Since it promotes "fat" you have to eliminate sugar. And the "Starch Solution" diet promotes the starch (which turns to sugar) and eliminates "fat". Very interesting!
Then I have heard that you can combine the two diets. Eat low carb/high fat for breakfast & lunch and for dinner eat carbs (potatoes, yams, whole grains). This appeals to me as I do enjoy potatoes. And it is my understanding that it is possible to eat starchy stuff (whole carbs) as long as you eat veggie fiber. As the veggie fiber will trap the sugars and help slow the insulin reaction. Then there is the 80/20 rule which says that eating healthy 80% of the time and only straying 20% is enough to keep you in the healthy zone.
Anyway, my personal revelation is still forth coming as I have more eating to do. However, I am convinced that I do need to cut way back on sugary and refined carbs. That will definitely be enough of a project on its own as I am very in love with hot buttered toast with jam and I can assure you that will not be leaving my diet anytime soon. And the jury is still out on how much green stuff my bowel will tolerate. I will keep you posted.
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Personal Update
I pray every morning that I will do His will and so I hope the course of my life is pleasing to Him. Right now I don't have much of a social life other than children and their parents. I am still babysitting little Abby. She has grown more comfortable with all of us and so having her around is flowing much better. And I am still taking care of my grandson, Everett. He is more than a handful, but I am enjoying watching him grow. Feel so blessed to be a part of his life. And in another month or so I will be taking care of my new grandson, Myles.
I also serve in the nursery at our church once a month. Only problem is that I keep getting sick after I serve, so I may have to let that go because I get set back on my household chores and I don't socialize when I am sick. And just as I get better from one virus, another one hits so the drama keeps on going pickle style. Then on top of that I can sometimes fall into adrenal fatigue and that causes issues with my muscles. Easier to get pulled muscles, tendonitis or bursitis in those times.
Women's Bible study started up and so far I haven't been able to go because it keeps falling on the Saturdays that I work. And I recently got asked to participate in mentoring young women at our church. It sure sounded like a cool opportunity and exciting. I talked it over with the Lord who was silent leaving me to discover I was feeling more guilt than go. Not good. So I consulted hubby and he was against it because he knows how busy I already am. When it takes all my physical strength to keep going with what I am doing now it isn't wise to add more.
When I do get free time I am finding that all I want to do is be alone to think, unwind and to connect with the Lord. I don't want to have to be anywhere or necessarily have anything to do. I just want to be free and personally, for me, that is really healthy.
I also serve in the nursery at our church once a month. Only problem is that I keep getting sick after I serve, so I may have to let that go because I get set back on my household chores and I don't socialize when I am sick. And just as I get better from one virus, another one hits so the drama keeps on going pickle style. Then on top of that I can sometimes fall into adrenal fatigue and that causes issues with my muscles. Easier to get pulled muscles, tendonitis or bursitis in those times.
Women's Bible study started up and so far I haven't been able to go because it keeps falling on the Saturdays that I work. And I recently got asked to participate in mentoring young women at our church. It sure sounded like a cool opportunity and exciting. I talked it over with the Lord who was silent leaving me to discover I was feeling more guilt than go. Not good. So I consulted hubby and he was against it because he knows how busy I already am. When it takes all my physical strength to keep going with what I am doing now it isn't wise to add more.
When I do get free time I am finding that all I want to do is be alone to think, unwind and to connect with the Lord. I don't want to have to be anywhere or necessarily have anything to do. I just want to be free and personally, for me, that is really healthy.
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
How Close Are We?
How close are we to the end? And the 2nd question in light of the first is: How close are we to Jesus? In an amazing sermon by Pastor Tom Hughes of 412 Church in San Jacinto, California, he talks about the final false religion. This sermon is a must listen!
How Close Are We to the Final False Religion
How Close Are We to the Final False Religion
Thursday, September 15, 2016
Awesome Americans
Don't you wish the nightly news would report on all the awesome Americans that are enduring tornadoes, hurricanes, torrential rain & flooding? God bless all of you who are suffering so much. Then there are the people who are enduring increased crime and shootings in their cities. And others who are enduring contaminated water, job loss and declined economy. There is so much going on in our country, so many people enduring so much and they don't get noticed. Despite all these afflictions, Americans continue marching on. And many Americans are helping their neighbor every single day! Kind, friendly, helpful and loving people living and giving on a daily basis despite what is going down in their life.
But, recently I hear the new word for Americans is "deplorables"? Really? Are you serious? How low can you go? Are we supposed to think that the political dog & pony show posing as the United States campaign for president is serious? Its more like watching Saturday Night Live, the Walking Dead and a crime show all rolled into one. I am thinking that the real "deplorables" are the ones running our federal government. Enough said...I'm outta here!
But, recently I hear the new word for Americans is "deplorables"? Really? Are you serious? How low can you go? Are we supposed to think that the political dog & pony show posing as the United States campaign for president is serious? Its more like watching Saturday Night Live, the Walking Dead and a crime show all rolled into one. I am thinking that the real "deplorables" are the ones running our federal government. Enough said...I'm outta here!
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
Autumn Already?
Here is one of my favorite pictures of Autumn in the Colorado high country.
This is from Autumn 2013.
Since Autumn is coming I've been thinking about all the wonderful comforts of the season. Here below I am going to list my favorites.
Apples
Pears
Pumpkins
Pies
Soups
Warm Bread with butter & apple butter
Pumpkin muffins
Hot coffee or Chai tea
Apple cider, hot or cold
Blankets
Sweaters
Autumn scented candles
Sunflowers & mums
Colored Leaves
Now that I've listed my favorites, what are your favorite Autumn comforts? Leave a comment!
Sunday, September 4, 2016
"Use It Up" Update
Happy Labor Day y'all! I can't believe it is September! Well, being that it is a new month, its time for the "Use It Up" update. I don't think I got through much this past month of August. I was able to finish off the A La Maison Honeysuckle and the Thousand Flowers lotions. Since I finished the lotions I put the soaps in storage and have moved on to other scents. In the shower I am using lemon scented soap. A friend gave me a bottle of South of France liquid soap in the scent lemon verbena. Then I have my lemon scented shower gel from Germany. Then I have a tube of Andalou Body Lotion in Citrus Verbena. I have to say that Andalou body lotion is my favorite brand of lotion, it always smells good and feels so rich and thick, but goes on easily. My skin always drinks it up like dessert.
In my bath I have a "green tea" theme going on. I am using a bar of green tea soap which I really like. It is handmade a la carte soap that I got at Whole Foods, but they don't seem to carry that brand any longer. For lotion I am using A La Maison body lotion in the Green Tea scent.
As for purchases, I caved. Some good things popped up at Marshal's. Here they are pictured below:
I picked up this Autumn hand cream by "deep steep". It is pretty spicy, but what I liked about it is the faint smell of apple. I adore apple scented bath products as well as candles.
I also picked up this strawberry scented body wash and butter by "deep steep". I really like the scent. It is not overly sweet and somehow has a clean smell to it. I look forward to using it in Spring/Summer 2017.
I also picked up this Rose Lilac soap by A La Maison. I am pairing it with a tube of Andalou body lotion in the 1000 Roses scent. Looking forward to using these in Spring 2017.
Here is a picture (sorry about the glare) of my bathroom where the bathtub is. It also doubles as our guest bathroom. I try to decorate it for the seasons. This is the decor for Fall. The "Love" decal is a scripture verse. The decal is from Dollar Tree. The sunflowers I picked up at Gordman's and the leaves in the center are from Walmart (last year). Then I picked up towels to match at Kohl's (got them on clearance). Really happy with how it turned out. My daughter in-law said she always likes using the bathroom at my house because she enjoys how I change the decor with the seasons.
By the way, that last summer event happened right on time. I became a Grandma for the 3rd time on August 30th. A very healthy 7 lb. boy named Myles. Now I am going to be babysitting two boys while mommy works. That will happen in November.
In my bath I have a "green tea" theme going on. I am using a bar of green tea soap which I really like. It is handmade a la carte soap that I got at Whole Foods, but they don't seem to carry that brand any longer. For lotion I am using A La Maison body lotion in the Green Tea scent.
As for purchases, I caved. Some good things popped up at Marshal's. Here they are pictured below:
By the way, that last summer event happened right on time. I became a Grandma for the 3rd time on August 30th. A very healthy 7 lb. boy named Myles. Now I am going to be babysitting two boys while mommy works. That will happen in November.
Thursday, August 18, 2016
Feeling a bit Autumn-ish?
I am feeling it! I've noticed that the days are getting shorter and the air is feeling a tad cooler. And even some stores have Autumn decor out. Granted, it is a bit early as its only the middle of August. Hello! We haven't even passed Labor Day! I know, but Autumn comes earlier here in Colorado than it ever did in Southern California. And for some reason I love Autumn, it seems to be my favorite season, so I just can't help myself. Don't get me wrong, I have been enjoying summer, it has been fun to wear shorts, skirts and sandals because in Colorado we wear our winter clothes the greater part of the year. Its also been wonderful to feel warm, eat frozen yogurt and drink iced beverages. And I am still waiting on the next summer event to take place and that is the birth of our 3rd grandson!
Anyway, feeling the Autumn-ish mood, I had a rare day off and went to the mall. Oh my goodness, I felt like a queen of leisure! I enjoyed browsing the new decor in stores and actually bought some items. And then that naturally led me to think about bath products. When don't I think of soap? So I had to stop at the Bath & Body Works to enjoy the new Autumn scents. I can't buy their bath products anymore due to my eczema, but that doesn't stop me from enjoying smelling. And then the candles, oh my! I have to say, the displays were gorgeous and the new scents delightful. So when I got home I went through my bath items in storage again, seeing if I have anything for Autumn. Which I only have a couple items so I might be able to make a couple purchases. Yay!
In my process of sorting things out in storage, I was able to throw a few things out. And I was able to reflect while sorting. I realized that I should not be so hard on myself about my purchases. Why? Because when I do purchase items I do it thoughtfully. Even so, I really don't know how the items are going to work out. Once I get the item home the story begins. Some items work and some don't for whatever reason and I can't predict that when I buy it. Some things I enjoy for awhile and that is okay. Some products I buy are a trusted brand, but then I find out they changed hands and thus changed the formula. Other brands I like have been done away with. Sometimes I can take items back and sometimes I can't. Even eating at a restaurant you never know if you are going to really like what you order. So big light bulb turned on in my head that a great majority of shopping is a gamble and anything that works out great is a blessing from the Lord. So there you go!
Well, that is the extent of my ramblings. On an ending note, I have to reflect on the Lord. I am so glad He made seasons. It just goes to show how much fun He is, not to mention creative and just plain awesome. Wishing you dear reader an amazing rest of summer as it slowly fades into Autumn.
Anyway, feeling the Autumn-ish mood, I had a rare day off and went to the mall. Oh my goodness, I felt like a queen of leisure! I enjoyed browsing the new decor in stores and actually bought some items. And then that naturally led me to think about bath products. When don't I think of soap? So I had to stop at the Bath & Body Works to enjoy the new Autumn scents. I can't buy their bath products anymore due to my eczema, but that doesn't stop me from enjoying smelling. And then the candles, oh my! I have to say, the displays were gorgeous and the new scents delightful. So when I got home I went through my bath items in storage again, seeing if I have anything for Autumn. Which I only have a couple items so I might be able to make a couple purchases. Yay!
In my process of sorting things out in storage, I was able to throw a few things out. And I was able to reflect while sorting. I realized that I should not be so hard on myself about my purchases. Why? Because when I do purchase items I do it thoughtfully. Even so, I really don't know how the items are going to work out. Once I get the item home the story begins. Some items work and some don't for whatever reason and I can't predict that when I buy it. Some things I enjoy for awhile and that is okay. Some products I buy are a trusted brand, but then I find out they changed hands and thus changed the formula. Other brands I like have been done away with. Sometimes I can take items back and sometimes I can't. Even eating at a restaurant you never know if you are going to really like what you order. So big light bulb turned on in my head that a great majority of shopping is a gamble and anything that works out great is a blessing from the Lord. So there you go!
Well, that is the extent of my ramblings. On an ending note, I have to reflect on the Lord. I am so glad He made seasons. It just goes to show how much fun He is, not to mention creative and just plain awesome. Wishing you dear reader an amazing rest of summer as it slowly fades into Autumn.
Friday, August 5, 2016
Are You Ready?
Are You Ready is the title of a message given by Amir Tsarfati at Calvary Chapel in Hawaii. Super awesome message and very uplifting. Hope you enjoy it.
Wednesday, August 3, 2016
Use It Up Update
It is the beginning of a new month and so time for the Use It Up Update. Again this month I do not have that much to report. I polished off another bottle of the Renpur Co-wash. I am now using the Renpur Lavender-Rosemary Co-wash that I picked up a couple months ago. So far so good, I am enjoying it. I also finished the A La Maison Coconut scented lotion.
Did not finish the A La Maison coconut soap, still had half a bottle left, so that is on the bathroom sink being used as our hand soap. In the shower I now have A La Maison Honeysuckle scented soap and the matching lotion.
In my tub I still am working on the A La Maison Thousand Flowers scented soap along with the lotion. I am nearly done with the lotion, which by the way smells heavenly. I am getting the last bits out of the bottom of the bottle. Don't you just hate when the pump stops working because the lotion is too low for the pump to suck it up? I don't know why, but that really annoys me.
Looking in my inventory of what I have left, I am still overwhelmed. One of the scents I still have yet to use is the A La Maison Fresh Sea Salt scent.
As far as buying any new bath products, I have managed to resist the temptation. Hooray for me!
Did not finish the A La Maison coconut soap, still had half a bottle left, so that is on the bathroom sink being used as our hand soap. In the shower I now have A La Maison Honeysuckle scented soap and the matching lotion.
In my tub I still am working on the A La Maison Thousand Flowers scented soap along with the lotion. I am nearly done with the lotion, which by the way smells heavenly. I am getting the last bits out of the bottom of the bottle. Don't you just hate when the pump stops working because the lotion is too low for the pump to suck it up? I don't know why, but that really annoys me.
Looking in my inventory of what I have left, I am still overwhelmed. One of the scents I still have yet to use is the A La Maison Fresh Sea Salt scent.
As far as buying any new bath products, I have managed to resist the temptation. Hooray for me!
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Are You Divergent?
As I type this I am watching the movie "Divergent". The heroine
is Tris, who is divergent. In the world that Tris lives in no one is allowed to be divergent (in other words, be a unique thinking for themselves individual). In the movie, anyone who is divergent is done away with. So when Tris takes her test and finds out she is divergent she has to watch her back. After testing the children have to pick a faction, Tris picks the faction of Dauntless (the brave). She is of course dauntless, but within her individuality. At one point in the movie, the hero & boyfriend named
"Four" tells Tris that she is fearless. This struck a cord in me.
Have you been watching the DNC? Did you watch the RNC? To be honest the whole thing scares me. There is a deepening chasm within our nation and the world for that matter. In my mind a great delusion seems to have taken hold. In 2 Thessalonians 2:10-11 it says: "He will completely fool those who are on their way to hell because they have said "no" to the Truth; they have refused to believe it and love it, and let it save them, so God will allow them to believe lies with all their hearts..." As a nation, we have turned away from God and thus it looks like this verse of scripture is happening before our very eyes.
I decided to dig deeper, thus I looked up the word "divergent" and found two meaningful definitions by Webster's dictionary. First "divergent" can mean a differing from each other or from a standard. I see more and more that there is a standard rising in this world, a standard that is called "politically correct". Believe it or not, it has become a religion. Of course, as in the movie, if you don't fit into this mold then you are "divergent". Which I realize I don't fit the mold, so thus I am divergent.
Looking back at the second definition of "divergent" (which is mathematical), it refers to an infinite sequence that does not have a limit. My mind had a spark, God is infinite! Thus, could we say that our Lord is divergent? When Jesus walked this earth He was indeed! Looking at the direction of this world I see that more and more it is necessary for a person that calls themselves a follower of Jesus to be divergent. Acts 17:28 says, "For in Him we live and move and having our being...". The world dictates otherwise.
Finally, just like Tris in the movie, we have to watch our backs as our enemy lurks about like a hungry roaring lion. Tris had to be on her game, so we must also be with the armor the Lord has given us as spoken of in Ephesians 6:10-18. And as Tris had Four helping to watch her back, so we have Jesus, as Hebrews 7:25 says, "Therefore He is able also to save to the uttermost those who come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." So knowing He has got us covered, we can keep calm and carry on being divergent in this world and thus be dauntless in Him.
So dear reader I ask again, "Are you divergent?"
If you need more encouragement, here is a link to a great sermon by Pastor Jack Hibbs: Why Should You Believe in the Rapture
Have you been watching the DNC? Did you watch the RNC? To be honest the whole thing scares me. There is a deepening chasm within our nation and the world for that matter. In my mind a great delusion seems to have taken hold. In 2 Thessalonians 2:10-11 it says: "He will completely fool those who are on their way to hell because they have said "no" to the Truth; they have refused to believe it and love it, and let it save them, so God will allow them to believe lies with all their hearts..." As a nation, we have turned away from God and thus it looks like this verse of scripture is happening before our very eyes.
I decided to dig deeper, thus I looked up the word "divergent" and found two meaningful definitions by Webster's dictionary. First "divergent" can mean a differing from each other or from a standard. I see more and more that there is a standard rising in this world, a standard that is called "politically correct". Believe it or not, it has become a religion. Of course, as in the movie, if you don't fit into this mold then you are "divergent". Which I realize I don't fit the mold, so thus I am divergent.
Looking back at the second definition of "divergent" (which is mathematical), it refers to an infinite sequence that does not have a limit. My mind had a spark, God is infinite! Thus, could we say that our Lord is divergent? When Jesus walked this earth He was indeed! Looking at the direction of this world I see that more and more it is necessary for a person that calls themselves a follower of Jesus to be divergent. Acts 17:28 says, "For in Him we live and move and having our being...". The world dictates otherwise.
Finally, just like Tris in the movie, we have to watch our backs as our enemy lurks about like a hungry roaring lion. Tris had to be on her game, so we must also be with the armor the Lord has given us as spoken of in Ephesians 6:10-18. And as Tris had Four helping to watch her back, so we have Jesus, as Hebrews 7:25 says, "Therefore He is able also to save to the uttermost those who come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them." So knowing He has got us covered, we can keep calm and carry on being divergent in this world and thus be dauntless in Him.
So dear reader I ask again, "Are you divergent?"
If you need more encouragement, here is a link to a great sermon by Pastor Jack Hibbs: Why Should You Believe in the Rapture
Monday, July 11, 2016
Use It Up Update
Hello from hot & dry Colorado! It is definitely summer here and thus it feels really good to take a shower or bath at the end of the day. Thus I began thinking that I need to do a Use It Up Update as its been a long while since I have posted one. I can say that I have made progress in reducing my products in storage, but not as much as I would like.
In retrospect, I was using the EO Rose scented body wash and a rose scented lotion. Well I used up the rose scented lotion and by that time was bored. So I decided to switch to A La Maison ~ Coconut scented soap and the matching lotion. I have to say that the soap is great, but the scent is not really coconut smelling to me. It smells good, but seems more on the masculine side. I am nearly done with the lotion (which smells like coconut cream) and once I am I will probably switch again.
In my bathtub I was using the A La Maison ~ Lavender Aloe scent. It is 2/3 gone and I have nearly used up the lavender lotion (3/4 gone), but I got bored and decided to switch to A La Maison ~ A Thousand Flowers and the matching lotion (which is 2/3 gone). I know its probably confusing because I keep switching, but I assure you I am making progress. As for hair care products, I used up a Kiss My Face hair conditioner and I have almost polished off another bottle of the Ren-pur Co-wash.
So in conclusion, during the past two months I only managed to use up a rose scented lotion and a Kiss My Face hair conditioner. The only temptation I had this month was a bar of lemon scented soap. It was such a bright pretty yellow and smelled so good, but I resisted the temptation. I just enjoyed it in the store. So that is my update. Hopefully, the August report will show more progress.
In retrospect, I was using the EO Rose scented body wash and a rose scented lotion. Well I used up the rose scented lotion and by that time was bored. So I decided to switch to A La Maison ~ Coconut scented soap and the matching lotion. I have to say that the soap is great, but the scent is not really coconut smelling to me. It smells good, but seems more on the masculine side. I am nearly done with the lotion (which smells like coconut cream) and once I am I will probably switch again.
In my bathtub I was using the A La Maison ~ Lavender Aloe scent. It is 2/3 gone and I have nearly used up the lavender lotion (3/4 gone), but I got bored and decided to switch to A La Maison ~ A Thousand Flowers and the matching lotion (which is 2/3 gone). I know its probably confusing because I keep switching, but I assure you I am making progress. As for hair care products, I used up a Kiss My Face hair conditioner and I have almost polished off another bottle of the Ren-pur Co-wash.
So in conclusion, during the past two months I only managed to use up a rose scented lotion and a Kiss My Face hair conditioner. The only temptation I had this month was a bar of lemon scented soap. It was such a bright pretty yellow and smelled so good, but I resisted the temptation. I just enjoyed it in the store. So that is my update. Hopefully, the August report will show more progress.
Thursday, June 30, 2016
Sharing Life & Prophecy
Well, today is the last day of June! At the end of May hubby and I went on vacation. Right before we left we both came down with a bad cold. Thankfully the Lord gave me the strength of get all the laundry and packing done as well as babysit kids. Our trip was wonderfully blessed as we fully enjoyed our time with family. However, the down side was that we got sicker once we arrived, not sick enough to stay in bed, but just enough to be annoying. By the time we were going home we were feeling improved, but it took another week to get all better. Now at the end of June Mark & I are sick yet again with another annoying bug. Sigh. I guess that is what happens when you have little ones around 5 to 6 days a week.
I usually post at least once a month, but for some reason I did not until now. I can't say why, only that it seems ever since I got back from vacation I've been busy. When we arrived home we were exhausted from our trip and we both crashed the night we got home. The next day we both jumped right back into work. Its like we did not even have time to come up for air. Right now I am looking at a possible 4-day break from kids. I was just telling the Lord that I need a break and then one presents itself. Wow!
Besides babysitting kids and keeping up with housework since coming home, the Lord has me praying. Praying for people who are sick. Shortly after I got home a friend of mine contacted me and asked me to pray for a friend of hers. A woman who took herbal diet pills and nearly died from them. Thankfully, the Lord has healed her and she is back at home, but she was in ICU with all kinds of IVs. Her liver and kidneys were threatening to shut down. Also found out that a friend's husband has pancreatic cancer. He has been suffering and has lost so much weight. He started kemo this week. Another friend has a 21-year old son who has come down with cancer. He has a tumor behind his right sinus cavity and he started kemo last week. He's been really sick and unable to eat since his first kemo. Our next door neighbor is watching a daughter suffer through terminal cancer. Its in her brain & lungs. Then there is my mother, who was diagnosed with a slow growth tumor in her breast.
On top of all that, I try to keep up with what is going on in the world. It is amazing as well as alarming. I have come across these little videos that sort of catalog what is going down and these videos really shed light on what is going on. The videos move me to tears at times, great music to go with them too. So here I will leave you with a link to Prophecy Update Enjoy!
I usually post at least once a month, but for some reason I did not until now. I can't say why, only that it seems ever since I got back from vacation I've been busy. When we arrived home we were exhausted from our trip and we both crashed the night we got home. The next day we both jumped right back into work. Its like we did not even have time to come up for air. Right now I am looking at a possible 4-day break from kids. I was just telling the Lord that I need a break and then one presents itself. Wow!
Besides babysitting kids and keeping up with housework since coming home, the Lord has me praying. Praying for people who are sick. Shortly after I got home a friend of mine contacted me and asked me to pray for a friend of hers. A woman who took herbal diet pills and nearly died from them. Thankfully, the Lord has healed her and she is back at home, but she was in ICU with all kinds of IVs. Her liver and kidneys were threatening to shut down. Also found out that a friend's husband has pancreatic cancer. He has been suffering and has lost so much weight. He started kemo this week. Another friend has a 21-year old son who has come down with cancer. He has a tumor behind his right sinus cavity and he started kemo last week. He's been really sick and unable to eat since his first kemo. Our next door neighbor is watching a daughter suffer through terminal cancer. Its in her brain & lungs. Then there is my mother, who was diagnosed with a slow growth tumor in her breast.
On top of all that, I try to keep up with what is going on in the world. It is amazing as well as alarming. I have come across these little videos that sort of catalog what is going down and these videos really shed light on what is going on. The videos move me to tears at times, great music to go with them too. So here I will leave you with a link to Prophecy Update Enjoy!
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
Update
General Update:
Not much to report, life just keeps moving along. I continue to keep up to date with what is going on in the world. Always watching the signs of the times and hoping for His soon appearing. I am continuing to work with the kids and their parents. When I think about all that is going on in the world I feel so blessed to be working with little children. On top of that I keep picking up this virus and that virus. It is annoying, but I am thankful that its just viruses and nothing serious. Have a vacation coming up and I am looking forward to it. At 55, my body isn't what it used to be and the kids wear me out, so it will be nice to take a break.
I did try something new recently. I sold a couple Vera purses on Ebay! I listed one on Ebay a month ago and it didn't sell. Well I thought I would try again and this time it sold quick. It was in a style that didn't work for me. Since that purse sold I listed two other purses, another Vera in a pattern that didn't work for me and a Lesportsac purse. The Vera sold, but still waiting on the Lesportsac. So nice to sell the Vera bags I wasn't using. When I get back from vacation I will probably be listing a couple more Vera bags.
Use It Up Update:
Well, not much to report on this front either. Still using the rose scented EO shower gel in my shower. I think it may be halfway gone. In the bathtub I was using Philosophy's Amazing Grace bar soap, but I started having some skin issues so I switched it to the vanity for hand washing. I started using a glycerin type soap in the tub, but then some other issue developed, so I switched to A La Maison lavender-aloe soap. So far so good. As for lotion I am using the Whole Foods 365 brand in the lavender scent. Remember last month I bought lotion on sale at Whole Foods? Well, I use that lotion to refill my lotion dispensers. I've used up the bottle of lavender filling up my dispensers, so feeling good about that. I spent $1.99 on that bottle of lotion and it looks like it will last me another month. So a dollar a month for lotion is quite a bargain!
I still have quite a bit of goodies in storage, so no need to buy anything more. I have no idea what I will use next, but I certainly have lots to choose from. I think the only thing I bought this month was a bottle of Renpur co-wash. I didn't need it because I already have one in storage, but I found it on sale in a new scent, so I splurged. The way I've been using the co-wash, I have no doubt it will get used up no problem. So other than that I've been behaving.
So there is my update. I hope this inspires you to keep occupying till He comes, using up what you have and keep trying new things when you can.
Not much to report, life just keeps moving along. I continue to keep up to date with what is going on in the world. Always watching the signs of the times and hoping for His soon appearing. I am continuing to work with the kids and their parents. When I think about all that is going on in the world I feel so blessed to be working with little children. On top of that I keep picking up this virus and that virus. It is annoying, but I am thankful that its just viruses and nothing serious. Have a vacation coming up and I am looking forward to it. At 55, my body isn't what it used to be and the kids wear me out, so it will be nice to take a break.
I did try something new recently. I sold a couple Vera purses on Ebay! I listed one on Ebay a month ago and it didn't sell. Well I thought I would try again and this time it sold quick. It was in a style that didn't work for me. Since that purse sold I listed two other purses, another Vera in a pattern that didn't work for me and a Lesportsac purse. The Vera sold, but still waiting on the Lesportsac. So nice to sell the Vera bags I wasn't using. When I get back from vacation I will probably be listing a couple more Vera bags.
Use It Up Update:
Well, not much to report on this front either. Still using the rose scented EO shower gel in my shower. I think it may be halfway gone. In the bathtub I was using Philosophy's Amazing Grace bar soap, but I started having some skin issues so I switched it to the vanity for hand washing. I started using a glycerin type soap in the tub, but then some other issue developed, so I switched to A La Maison lavender-aloe soap. So far so good. As for lotion I am using the Whole Foods 365 brand in the lavender scent. Remember last month I bought lotion on sale at Whole Foods? Well, I use that lotion to refill my lotion dispensers. I've used up the bottle of lavender filling up my dispensers, so feeling good about that. I spent $1.99 on that bottle of lotion and it looks like it will last me another month. So a dollar a month for lotion is quite a bargain!
I still have quite a bit of goodies in storage, so no need to buy anything more. I have no idea what I will use next, but I certainly have lots to choose from. I think the only thing I bought this month was a bottle of Renpur co-wash. I didn't need it because I already have one in storage, but I found it on sale in a new scent, so I splurged. The way I've been using the co-wash, I have no doubt it will get used up no problem. So other than that I've been behaving.
So there is my update. I hope this inspires you to keep occupying till He comes, using up what you have and keep trying new things when you can.
Friday, April 15, 2016
Thoughts on Minimalism, the old days and God...
Does the word "minimalism" appeal to you? How about the phrase "capsule wardrobe"? Or what about "vegan"? These all seem to be the popular buzz words among young people today. Some people even claim it affects them spiritually. I admit these do have a certain appeal to me as well. Living in a affluent society where we have so much it seems a self induced doing without is refreshing. Take for instance the capsule wardrobe, this appealed to me in the fact that I would have less to take care of and it would be easier to get dressed. However, I've had a mental block about actually doing it. Searching for answers, I looked back on my childhood of the 1970's.
We were a family of 7, which was a fairly large family in the 1970's. My parents owned 2 cars, mom was a stay-at-home mom and my dad made a fairly good salary as a purchasing agent for an oil company. However, my parents were not rolling in the dough with 5 kids to clothe, feed and take to the doctor. We had a simple 3 bedroom home, with an old couch, two chairs, a coffee table, an end table, a couple lamps, a record player and a TV. At one point in my life my parents moved into a 4 bedroom home and I got to have my own bedroom. However, my parents did not have enough furniture to fill my room. For a while all I had was a bed and a bookcase made out of 2x4's and cinder blocks. I had to use the bookcase as a dresser to house my undies & pj's. Eventually my parents were able to buy me a dresser and nightstand and let me tell you I felt like a queen! So I've checked minimalism off the list as I've been there, done that.
As for the capsule wardrobe, I had a walk in closet in my bedroom, but it was mostly empty. I remember anxiously waiting for my grandmother to come for a visit. Why? Because she would often bring me hand-me-down clothing from my cousin. I remember at one point I had a 3 or 4 pairs of pants, a sweater or two, two long dresses that my grandmother had made for me, a few tops and blouses, a couple pairs of shorts and maybe 3 pairs of shoes max. How's that for a capsule wardrobe? So I checked capsule wardrobe off the list of pursuits. Been there done that, don't care to do it again.
As for diet, nowadays, being vegan is all the rage. I admit it appeals to me as eating more veggies is always a good thing and avoiding GMO's is a good thing too. In the old days people talked about being vegetarian, but mostly that was for hippies. If you were a normal American family you were on the "food we can afford" diet. Therefore, we grew up on Kentucky Fried Chicken, ground beef, Cheerios, whole milk, white bread, baloney, Hostess Twinkies, chips, Hi-C fruit punch and the yucky veggies mom served at dinner. We supplemented with water from the garden hose and fruit eaten off backyard trees. I remember food being more fresh, seasonal and tasty in the old days. As for being vegan, well, I think being a vegetarian appeals to me more than being vegan.
Looking back on my childhood, I can see that I've already experienced minimalism and the capsule wardrobe in my life. As for diet, that maybe could use some further exploration and change, so that may be something to pursue. But, all of these are just outward things. What is more important is our spiritual condition. So spiritually speaking, does any of these ways of living change our spiritual condition? The answer is "No". What we physically have or don't have or what we eat or don't eat doesn't really make the difference. Jesus said in Mark 7:18-20:
And He said to them, "Are you so lacking in understanding also? Do you not understand that whatever goes into the man from outside cannot defile him, 19because it does not go into his heart, but into his stomach, and is eliminated?" (Thus He declared all foods clean.) 20And He was saying, "That which proceeds out of the man, that is what defiles the man.…
So in conclusion, being a minimalist, a vegan or practicing the capsule wardrobe concept doesn't necessarily do anything for our soul. However, God can use these experiences in our lives, no doubt, but they can't make us right with Him. Father God is the giver of good gifts, He makes the sun to shine on the just & the unjust. The greatest gift He has given us is His Son, Jesus. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). So spiritually speaking what we do with Jesus is what makes all the difference in our spiritual condition, nothing else. That is minimalism right there.
We were a family of 7, which was a fairly large family in the 1970's. My parents owned 2 cars, mom was a stay-at-home mom and my dad made a fairly good salary as a purchasing agent for an oil company. However, my parents were not rolling in the dough with 5 kids to clothe, feed and take to the doctor. We had a simple 3 bedroom home, with an old couch, two chairs, a coffee table, an end table, a couple lamps, a record player and a TV. At one point in my life my parents moved into a 4 bedroom home and I got to have my own bedroom. However, my parents did not have enough furniture to fill my room. For a while all I had was a bed and a bookcase made out of 2x4's and cinder blocks. I had to use the bookcase as a dresser to house my undies & pj's. Eventually my parents were able to buy me a dresser and nightstand and let me tell you I felt like a queen! So I've checked minimalism off the list as I've been there, done that.
As for the capsule wardrobe, I had a walk in closet in my bedroom, but it was mostly empty. I remember anxiously waiting for my grandmother to come for a visit. Why? Because she would often bring me hand-me-down clothing from my cousin. I remember at one point I had a 3 or 4 pairs of pants, a sweater or two, two long dresses that my grandmother had made for me, a few tops and blouses, a couple pairs of shorts and maybe 3 pairs of shoes max. How's that for a capsule wardrobe? So I checked capsule wardrobe off the list of pursuits. Been there done that, don't care to do it again.
As for diet, nowadays, being vegan is all the rage. I admit it appeals to me as eating more veggies is always a good thing and avoiding GMO's is a good thing too. In the old days people talked about being vegetarian, but mostly that was for hippies. If you were a normal American family you were on the "food we can afford" diet. Therefore, we grew up on Kentucky Fried Chicken, ground beef, Cheerios, whole milk, white bread, baloney, Hostess Twinkies, chips, Hi-C fruit punch and the yucky veggies mom served at dinner. We supplemented with water from the garden hose and fruit eaten off backyard trees. I remember food being more fresh, seasonal and tasty in the old days. As for being vegan, well, I think being a vegetarian appeals to me more than being vegan.
Looking back on my childhood, I can see that I've already experienced minimalism and the capsule wardrobe in my life. As for diet, that maybe could use some further exploration and change, so that may be something to pursue. But, all of these are just outward things. What is more important is our spiritual condition. So spiritually speaking, does any of these ways of living change our spiritual condition? The answer is "No". What we physically have or don't have or what we eat or don't eat doesn't really make the difference. Jesus said in Mark 7:18-20:
And He said to them, "Are you so lacking in understanding also? Do you not understand that whatever goes into the man from outside cannot defile him, 19because it does not go into his heart, but into his stomach, and is eliminated?" (Thus He declared all foods clean.) 20And He was saying, "That which proceeds out of the man, that is what defiles the man.…
So in conclusion, being a minimalist, a vegan or practicing the capsule wardrobe concept doesn't necessarily do anything for our soul. However, God can use these experiences in our lives, no doubt, but they can't make us right with Him. Father God is the giver of good gifts, He makes the sun to shine on the just & the unjust. The greatest gift He has given us is His Son, Jesus. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). So spiritually speaking what we do with Jesus is what makes all the difference in our spiritual condition, nothing else. That is minimalism right there.
Saturday, April 2, 2016
Update & Use It Up Report
Hello! It is time for a monthly update. I will first start off with the general update. It was my birthday in March. Had a wonderful birthday and I am now 55 and eligible for the senior discount at my local thrift store. Yay! LOL
As far as work is concerned, I think progress has been made with the little girl I babysit. First, my grandson is standing up to her more which I have no problem with. I let the parents know and they are fine with it. I can say she has improved on a one on one basis with me, but when her parents are around she drops little hints that she doesn't like me. However, her father told me that they trust me so she keeps coming.
Otherwise, we have been sick for like the last month. Little colds and tummy bugs one right after the other. My grandson vomited in his crib with the tummy bug (it took a couple days work to get that smell out of the room). My hubby got the tummy bug and vomited too. Thankfully, when I got it, I did not vomit, just had back door issues. Wonderful topic, right? LOL Anyway, right now we are struggling through this weird cold thing. So many of these viruses attack my bowel, even with it being a cold type thing. Anyway, Mark has a cough and we both have the congestion in the head. And the aches and tiredness with this one have been more than normal.
Now on to the Use It Up report. I used up the Andalou Rose scented lotion. I got to the bottom of the tube, but there is still stuff in there. Well, I put the last of it into a pump bottle and mixed it with another lotion (Whole Foods 365 lotion in lavender scent). The other item I used up was the Renpur Co-wash for my hair. So, as my grandson says: All gone!
As for shower gel, I am still using the EO rose scented one. Its a big bottle so it is going to take awhile to get through. As for hair care I am still using the Renpur co-wash. Finished off the one bottle and I am on to my 2nd bottle. Also added a new addition to my routine. I bought a 4 oz bottle of Dr. Bonner's castile soap in the scent Cherry Blossom. I use that to deep cleanse my hair once or twice a week and to wash my face when in the shower. I also went back to using the Shea Moisture deep moisturizer for my hair. My hair got really nasty on me, so I went back to it. I just use it more sparingly and follow it up with the co-wash. Doing it that way is way better as my hair is not as greasy just moisturized. I did use the Shea Moisture as a leg shave cream once and it worked well for that too. As far as bar soap is concerned I have not gotten through the bar of Amazing Grace yet, its still going strong.
I did stock up on 365 brand lotion since it went on sale for $1.99 a bottle at Whole Foods. I picked up the lavender and herbal mint scents. When I got home I found I already had a bottle of mint in storage. Drat! Oh well, I am sure it will get used eventually. I also picked up a bottle of the Ultra Moisture Whole Foods lotion that I liked so well. Remember the Sugar Plum scented lotion I picked up after Christmas? Yeah, well it is the same lotion just unscented. So obviously I now have plenty of lotion in storage. And of course as usual I have too many products just like I have too much clothing and too many purses, but clothes & purses I will save for another post.
As far as work is concerned, I think progress has been made with the little girl I babysit. First, my grandson is standing up to her more which I have no problem with. I let the parents know and they are fine with it. I can say she has improved on a one on one basis with me, but when her parents are around she drops little hints that she doesn't like me. However, her father told me that they trust me so she keeps coming.
Otherwise, we have been sick for like the last month. Little colds and tummy bugs one right after the other. My grandson vomited in his crib with the tummy bug (it took a couple days work to get that smell out of the room). My hubby got the tummy bug and vomited too. Thankfully, when I got it, I did not vomit, just had back door issues. Wonderful topic, right? LOL Anyway, right now we are struggling through this weird cold thing. So many of these viruses attack my bowel, even with it being a cold type thing. Anyway, Mark has a cough and we both have the congestion in the head. And the aches and tiredness with this one have been more than normal.
Now on to the Use It Up report. I used up the Andalou Rose scented lotion. I got to the bottom of the tube, but there is still stuff in there. Well, I put the last of it into a pump bottle and mixed it with another lotion (Whole Foods 365 lotion in lavender scent). The other item I used up was the Renpur Co-wash for my hair. So, as my grandson says: All gone!
As for shower gel, I am still using the EO rose scented one. Its a big bottle so it is going to take awhile to get through. As for hair care I am still using the Renpur co-wash. Finished off the one bottle and I am on to my 2nd bottle. Also added a new addition to my routine. I bought a 4 oz bottle of Dr. Bonner's castile soap in the scent Cherry Blossom. I use that to deep cleanse my hair once or twice a week and to wash my face when in the shower. I also went back to using the Shea Moisture deep moisturizer for my hair. My hair got really nasty on me, so I went back to it. I just use it more sparingly and follow it up with the co-wash. Doing it that way is way better as my hair is not as greasy just moisturized. I did use the Shea Moisture as a leg shave cream once and it worked well for that too. As far as bar soap is concerned I have not gotten through the bar of Amazing Grace yet, its still going strong.
I did stock up on 365 brand lotion since it went on sale for $1.99 a bottle at Whole Foods. I picked up the lavender and herbal mint scents. When I got home I found I already had a bottle of mint in storage. Drat! Oh well, I am sure it will get used eventually. I also picked up a bottle of the Ultra Moisture Whole Foods lotion that I liked so well. Remember the Sugar Plum scented lotion I picked up after Christmas? Yeah, well it is the same lotion just unscented. So obviously I now have plenty of lotion in storage. And of course as usual I have too many products just like I have too much clothing and too many purses, but clothes & purses I will save for another post.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Big Wet Snow
We are expected to get even more snow Friday night and into Saturday. Can't imagine anymore snow than this. Its going to be a wintery Easter.
Monday, March 14, 2016
Nightly Face Care Routine for Older Gals
I thought I would post my very simple nightly face care routine. I am in my 50's and prone to eczema. It took me awhile to discover products that work well for my stage in life. I've been using these same three products for quite awhile now and thought I'd share them.
Step one is cleansing the skin. This Cetaphil soap is great! I've been using it since 2014 and it is very gentle and never dries my face out. I only wash my face once a day and when I do I use this soap.
Second step is moisturizing, which is a two step process for me. Pictured above is the first step in my moisturizing process. It's like a fat chapstick, so it is very easy to apply where I need it. I use this on my eyelids and underneath my eyes. I also apply it around my mouth, around my nose area and upper lip and the bottom of my chin. I used to get dry patches in these areas, but since using this very convenient stick everything has cleared up and is staying that way. I also use this stick on my chapped lips and it works wonders.
This is the second step in my moisturizing process. Out of Africa Shea Butter Hand Lotion has been a blessing. From the first time I used it I fell in love. I use it all over my face after applying the Emu oil stick. In the couple of years that I have been using this lotion I have not had any negative reaction and my skin has stayed nicely moisturized. Oh, yes, it works well on hands too. LOL Anyway, I highly recommend it.
So these are the three products I use in my nightly face routine. Its a very simple and low maintenance skin care routine that has kept my skin healthy for a few years now. I hope this helps. Take good care & God bless!
So these are the three products I use in my nightly face routine. Its a very simple and low maintenance skin care routine that has kept my skin healthy for a few years now. I hope this helps. Take good care & God bless!
Saturday, March 5, 2016
Updates
This is going to be a general update and a "Use It Up" update combined.
General Update
I have been busy taking care of my new daycare client. Its been an adjustment getting used to the hours. I've been working 9 1/2 hours 2 to 4 days a week. The parents are very nice people, however, their little girl is a challenge for me thus far. She is an only child and doted on so that may explain some of her behavior. My grandson is 6 months younger than her and he has been great about sharing his toys and playing with her. He's had times where he has needed correction, but that comes with any child. However, this little girl seems to have a different dimension. The first day she played with my grandson she punched him two times and bit his finger. Her parents had a talk with her and she was better for a bit. Then one day out of the blue she hit my grandson upside the head. Today my grandson was sitting on the sofa reading a book and she pushed him off the edge. None of these things were provoked by my grandson. All I can say is that I have to keep it in prayer. I know kids do these things, but I don't want to have my grandson picked on just so I can earn a few dollars.
Use It Up
Well, I don't think there has been much progress. I did use up all of my Moisture Max Sugar Plum lotion. As pictured below.
I went to Whole Foods to purchase some more Moisture Max lotion, but for some reason decided against it. I think because I had just purchased two tubes of A La Maison brand lotion for $4.99 a tube at Marshall's. I found Sea Salt & Coconut scents and I have the soaps in those scents in my storage.
And I also purchased more of the Renpur Co-wash which has been working really well for my hair. I did purchased a deep hair conditioner by Shea Moisture prior, but it leaves my hair too greasy. So no more Shea Moisture products for my hair, they just don't work for me, going to stick with Renpur.
I got bored of the Philosophy body wash in my shower. I was hunting around in my cupboards and came across my EO Rose scented body wash (as pictured below). Completely forgot I had it in there!
I also found a new Andalou 1000 Roses body lotion in my cupboard too (pictured below). So using that and the Rose Petals Rosewater spray also. Still using the Rose scented bar soap as decoration in my bathroom.
So there you go, that is my update. Thanks for stopping by and catching up with me. God bless!
General Update
I have been busy taking care of my new daycare client. Its been an adjustment getting used to the hours. I've been working 9 1/2 hours 2 to 4 days a week. The parents are very nice people, however, their little girl is a challenge for me thus far. She is an only child and doted on so that may explain some of her behavior. My grandson is 6 months younger than her and he has been great about sharing his toys and playing with her. He's had times where he has needed correction, but that comes with any child. However, this little girl seems to have a different dimension. The first day she played with my grandson she punched him two times and bit his finger. Her parents had a talk with her and she was better for a bit. Then one day out of the blue she hit my grandson upside the head. Today my grandson was sitting on the sofa reading a book and she pushed him off the edge. None of these things were provoked by my grandson. All I can say is that I have to keep it in prayer. I know kids do these things, but I don't want to have my grandson picked on just so I can earn a few dollars.
Use It Up
Well, I don't think there has been much progress. I did use up all of my Moisture Max Sugar Plum lotion. As pictured below.
And I also purchased more of the Renpur Co-wash which has been working really well for my hair. I did purchased a deep hair conditioner by Shea Moisture prior, but it leaves my hair too greasy. So no more Shea Moisture products for my hair, they just don't work for me, going to stick with Renpur.
I got bored of the Philosophy body wash in my shower. I was hunting around in my cupboards and came across my EO Rose scented body wash (as pictured below). Completely forgot I had it in there!
I also found a new Andalou 1000 Roses body lotion in my cupboard too (pictured below). So using that and the Rose Petals Rosewater spray also. Still using the Rose scented bar soap as decoration in my bathroom.
Sunday, February 14, 2016
Use it Up Update
Well, it has been exactly a month since I last posted. I really don't have much to report in the way of "using it up" because I have not used anything up. For the month of February I usually use anything rose, but this year I am not doing that. The Andalou "Aloe Mint" shower gel and lotion have a little bit more to go, but I got bored with them and put them away. In my shower, I've been using a body wash by Philosophy that I got from a friend a couple Christmas' ago. It is in the scent "Peace on Earth", which has sort of an orchid scent. In my tub, I am using a bar of Philosophy bar soap in the scent "Grace" which I got as a gift more than a couple years ago. Usually, I am a stickler for matching my scents (soap & lotion), but this month I am not doing that. I've been using that "Moisture Max" lotion in Sugar Plum that I picked up last month. I have been enjoying that lotion a lot and I am planning on purchasing the plain scent of it when I am done with the "Sugar Plum". I think I am starting to move away from the matching thing.
This month I got hired to take care of a little girl who is 6 months older than my grandson, Everett. I don't get paid to watch my grandson, so it will be nice to earn some cash again. I don't know what it is about having people come to the house, but it always motivates me to start cleaning out the clutter. Since I gained weight from being able to eat again, I had to revamp my wardrobe. I went from XS to S/M. I've had two storage boxes sitting in the baby room filled with my clothing that doesn't quite fit right anymore. Well, with having a 2nd child around I thought it was time to go through those clothes. So I went to town on it and eliminated one whole box of clothes. I tried to sell some of my clothing at a consignment shop. Ugh! I am SO done with consignment shops! For some women those shops work well, but for me, NO! So my clothing will be going to benefit charities from now on. They need it more anyway and it is better to help the needy than the "in need of nothing" crew.
This month I got hired to take care of a little girl who is 6 months older than my grandson, Everett. I don't get paid to watch my grandson, so it will be nice to earn some cash again. I don't know what it is about having people come to the house, but it always motivates me to start cleaning out the clutter. Since I gained weight from being able to eat again, I had to revamp my wardrobe. I went from XS to S/M. I've had two storage boxes sitting in the baby room filled with my clothing that doesn't quite fit right anymore. Well, with having a 2nd child around I thought it was time to go through those clothes. So I went to town on it and eliminated one whole box of clothes. I tried to sell some of my clothing at a consignment shop. Ugh! I am SO done with consignment shops! For some women those shops work well, but for me, NO! So my clothing will be going to benefit charities from now on. They need it more anyway and it is better to help the needy than the "in need of nothing" crew.
Thursday, January 14, 2016
Use It Up Update
It is time for the "Use It Up" Update. First, I will report on items I bought this month. I bought a new lotion. It was 50% off, so I could not resist. Besides, the type of lotion (Maximum Moisture/Whole Foods brand) is great for winter. It is thick and rich and really helps with that winter itch. Here is a picture of the lotion from the internet.
Andalou Aloe Mint shower gel is halfway gone, and the lotion is nearly gone. Maybe by the end of the month both will be all gone.
Remember the pump on the above pictured soap broke? Well, I put the soap into a different bottle and have been using it in my kitchen. I just poured the last of it into the new bottle, so it is on its way to being used up. Hopefully by the end of this month.
Oh, I have forgotten to mention, another thing I purchased this month, pictured above. This is a perfume I use. Kuumba fragrance oils are all natural, very fragrant and long lasting. A little goes a long way. I get many compliments, so if you want to try them I recommend it. I get mine at Whole Foods Market. I have been using this one little bottle of Arabian Rose for about a year or more and it is finally gone. I bought a new bottle in the scent Lavender Lace (hubby approved).
So that is my update for this month. I hope that I have inspired you and that you are using up what you have. But most of all that you are enjoying what you have.
The scent I picked is Sugar Plum and it smells delightful.
As for using my supply up. I did use up a bar of peppermint soap (pictured below in the glass soap dish). I got that bar of soap as a birthday gift.
The next items that are close to being used up are pictured below.
So that is my update for this month. I hope that I have inspired you and that you are using up what you have. But most of all that you are enjoying what you have.
Friday, January 8, 2016
Where has the beauty of life gone?
"And who is the greatest liar? The one who says that Jesus Christ is
not Christ. Such a person is antichrist, for he does not believe in God
the Father and in his Son." 1 John 2:22.
There seems to be a gloom that has taken over the earth. Have you noticed? I can hardly describe it, but to say it seems something out of a book written by C.S. Lewis titled, The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe. He wrote about a country called Narnia, where winter had taken over and would not leave. And I suppose that is what has happened in our world for it seems the hearts of men have grown cold in this day in age. Many people have chosen to believe a lie and in that lie is darkness. Thus as the world grows darker it also grows cold. But the good news of the story is that there is a hero named Aslan, a mighty lion. In the story, Aslan's servants are waiting for him to return. When he does, winter melts away. So in real life those of us who have a renewed heart wait for our King, Jesus, who will burn away all the darkness.
Right now though, we weep for the beauty of life that has faded away. Many of our Christian brothers & sisters are suffering or have passed away. This breaks our hearts, but the happiness is that the Lord adds to His church daily. Many are yet being saved! And still yet, as the gloom grows deeper and tension grows tight, it is our time to shine. We are salt, the city set on a hill, a light reflecting His glory. We are ever His servant, ready to do whatever He places before us. And we can be sure that He will provide whatever we need to shine His light. And we can also be sure that He is with us always, even to the end of the world. (Matthew 28:20)
Beloved, it appears, our redemption is drawing nearer than ever before, so look up. Look for our bridegroom, for in Him there is salvation, strength, wisdom, love and peace. Everything of beauty is with Him and this is where the beauty of life resides.
There seems to be a gloom that has taken over the earth. Have you noticed? I can hardly describe it, but to say it seems something out of a book written by C.S. Lewis titled, The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe. He wrote about a country called Narnia, where winter had taken over and would not leave. And I suppose that is what has happened in our world for it seems the hearts of men have grown cold in this day in age. Many people have chosen to believe a lie and in that lie is darkness. Thus as the world grows darker it also grows cold. But the good news of the story is that there is a hero named Aslan, a mighty lion. In the story, Aslan's servants are waiting for him to return. When he does, winter melts away. So in real life those of us who have a renewed heart wait for our King, Jesus, who will burn away all the darkness.
Right now though, we weep for the beauty of life that has faded away. Many of our Christian brothers & sisters are suffering or have passed away. This breaks our hearts, but the happiness is that the Lord adds to His church daily. Many are yet being saved! And still yet, as the gloom grows deeper and tension grows tight, it is our time to shine. We are salt, the city set on a hill, a light reflecting His glory. We are ever His servant, ready to do whatever He places before us. And we can be sure that He will provide whatever we need to shine His light. And we can also be sure that He is with us always, even to the end of the world. (Matthew 28:20)
Beloved, it appears, our redemption is drawing nearer than ever before, so look up. Look for our bridegroom, for in Him there is salvation, strength, wisdom, love and peace. Everything of beauty is with Him and this is where the beauty of life resides.
Friday, January 1, 2016
Happy 2016!
I hope you are enjoying the first day of 2016. Mark and I are just relaxing and enjoying eating. We have been sick for weeks, especially me. Mark took 3 weeks of vacation and we had plans to have fun, but that got dashed. First our grandson came down with Hand, Foot & Mouth disease. He got sores in his throat and on his body. Mark was not affected by the HFM, but it did affect me in that I got white blisters in the back of my throat. That lowered my immune system enough that I then came down with a bad cold and was very sick on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day. A week later I am still feeling weak, blowing my nose and coughing. Our grandson has recovered from the Hand, Foot & Mouth, but now has a bad cold. We took him to the doctor and the doctor said the cold does not have anything to do with HFM.
Anyway, I was thankful I got my Christmas shopping done before I was so ill. I was scheduled to meet with a couple friends and go to a Christmas party, but had to cancel all. Instead I stayed home for days working on getting well. We had to reschedule Christmas with Everett due to being so ill.
Okay, back to the new year! Here we are at the beginning of 2016 a whole year of wonder ahead. A new calendar on the wall, a new date book to fill up. I wonder what this year has in store? As I look forward, I know where my strength comes from. It comes from the one who I have given my heart to...Jesus. Without Him there is no meaning, no joy & no strength to carry on. So with that, I wish each and every person who visits my blog a blessed 2016.
Anyway, I was thankful I got my Christmas shopping done before I was so ill. I was scheduled to meet with a couple friends and go to a Christmas party, but had to cancel all. Instead I stayed home for days working on getting well. We had to reschedule Christmas with Everett due to being so ill.
Okay, back to the new year! Here we are at the beginning of 2016 a whole year of wonder ahead. A new calendar on the wall, a new date book to fill up. I wonder what this year has in store? As I look forward, I know where my strength comes from. It comes from the one who I have given my heart to...Jesus. Without Him there is no meaning, no joy & no strength to carry on. So with that, I wish each and every person who visits my blog a blessed 2016.
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