Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Someone gave me this recipe about 18 years ago. It was written on a small piece of pink paper. Over the years the recipe got oil and other liquids spilled on it. I copied it onto an index card for safe keeping. I still have the pink piece of paper with the original recipe on it for keepsake. I make this cake every year at Christmas time.

Recipe:

3 cups of cake flour

3 cups of sugar

6 eggs

2 sticks of butter

1 stick of margarine

1 (8 oz.) package of cream cheese

1 envelope of dream whip

1 Tbsp of vanilla flavor

Grease and flour bundt pan. The butter, margarine and cream cheese should be at room temperature. Cream butter, margarine and cream cheese. Add sugar and eggs. Continue to mix. Add cake flour and dream whip. Beat well. Add vanilla flavor and continue beating. Pour batter in pan. You may have to smooth the cake out with a rubber spatula.

Bake @ 325 degrees for one and a half (1 1/2) hours.

After the cake is done, I melt a half a stick of butter and pour it over the top of the cake. Especially in the cracked parts. Enjoy!

The Radiator, Submission and an Unexpectant Blessing

What does a radiator and submission have in common? Nothing really. Unless, you consider the fact that through a broken radiator, I had to decide whether or not I was going to submit my will or His.

Early one morning my husband came home and informed me that something was wrong with the car. With a big heavy sigh, I asked him if he let the car warm up. Then I proceeded to tell him 101 reasons why he should have let the car warm up. 

During the night we had one of the coldest nights thus far. The last thing we needed was a car that was broken. We had just brought it. Things were perfect because I was just issued my driver's license after not driving for some time.

Why would this happen?

Surely, if I get up and go down there the car would start. Yes it started, but idled high and over heated right away.

Don and I talked about what we were going to do. We looked at the money we had in the "car" envelope and there wasn't much there. We didn't know what was wrong with it. He had an idea that it was the radiator. Sure enough, it was.

I asked him if he wanted to have it towed somewhere. He said that wouldn't be necessary because he was going to fix it if I would hold the flashlight.

I just stood there. Outside on a cold November morning watching everything encircle me as I played those words over and over again. My husband has never fixed a radiator, at least I didn't think so.

I opened my mouth to ask him if he had ever fixed a radiator, but before I could finish my sentence, he said, "Honey, because you tell me all the time that I can do anything, I believe I can fix this radiator."

*Side Note: Ladies, please tell your husbands how much you believe in them. Other people can tell him that, but what really matters to him is if you believe in him.

We ordered the radiator. The part came in the next day.

We spent the following morning taking the old radiator out. It was a grueling task. I took the word helpmeet to a whole new level. I did manage to keep my cute skirt clean in the midst of it all.


On the third day, we spent another cold morning installing the new radiator. Got it in but the car wouldn't start. By this time, I was cold, tired and frustrated. Surely he would have someone to come fix it or have it towed.....

We came in and talked about our next move. I had a solution to the car problem. The neighbor next door had just gotten her car fixed by the mechanic down the street. She raved about him. A sister from church highly recommended her mechanic. She really trust him.

I presented my solution to take it to either one of these mechanics. He said no because there's no more money left in the car envelope. That was fine because we could use credit. I don't know why he didn't think of that. If only he would really listen to me. Our car problem could be solved in one day.

My husband said no because he felt that wasn't the answer. That was a quick fix and would put us in debt.

At this point not only did God had to control my tongue. He had to control my neck too. I'm a sistah girl from the ghetto. I know how to roll my neck and tell somebody off. I was very good at it BC (Before Christ).

He asked me to trust him in this situation. I panicked on the inside. I did manage to control my tongue and my neck! My flesh hurt though because I wanted to give into it and usurp his authority as head of our home.

It's easy to submit when you agree. It's when you don't agree that shows what you're really made of. I had to decide if I was going to practice what I teach other women to do. Submit, even when you don't want to or when you feel your husband is wrong. During these times, what's in your heart is really exposed.

Was there something in me that needed to be exposed? I had to step back and pray.....

Day four: We went out there trying to figure out what was wrong with the car. I had to remind myself to not only watch what I said, but my body language. (Note: A whole lot can be said without a spoken word. The body language will say it all.)

Day five: We went out there trying to figure out what was wrong with the car. Car didn't start. I suggested that maybe we should have someone come here to look at it verses towing it to a shop.

He looked at me and said, "That's a great idea."

Our friend couldn't come for another 2 days.

He came. He couldn't figure out what was wrong.

I wanted to bring up having it towed again. I heard a still small voice say, "Shhh....."

Laid down that night later than usual. We all had to get up early and ride in my sons cars to church.

My silent prayer, "Lord you said that if we would be faithful, you would open up the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing that we won't have room to receive. You said that men would give unto us. You said that I'm to reverence my husband and submit to him. I really don't understand, but I trust You."

I kept saying, "I trust You...."

I had to go back home. On my way back to church, Don called me and said a couple wanted to talk to us.

When I arrived at church, Don and I talked to the couple. They had just gotten a new car and wanted to give us their old one.

Our mouths dropped! Tears started to flow.....

They gave us a car! No strings attached. A nice car too.

Had I not come under the submission of my husband, even when I didn't agree with him, I would have missed out on what God was trying to teach me. He was teaching me to trust Him. Trust what the Scriptures say about my role as a wife.

Also, one can say that my husband should have just taken it to the shop. He decided to trust what God said in His word to owe no man nothing.

As a wife to my dear husband, I can trust him as head of our home because God is his head. There's safety in and submission. The rewards are great. Just look at my new car.

By the way, I named her Ginger because she's golden and very pretty!

Oh, I forgot to mention that the dealer where we brought our car from is sending their mechanic to our house to look at the broken car. I'll keep y'all updated ;)

Words of Wisdom

Today I went to a bridal shower for a precious young lady that I've come to really admire. Her desire to please God and do what's right has captivated the heart of a man. She and her beau will make a covenant to one another on 1-1-11 at 11am.

After the games were played and the gifts were opened, it was time for "words of wisdom." During this time, married women share words of wisdom to the bride to be. Advice on communication, forgiveness, prayer, etc., are shared with the new bride.

Well, it was my turn. I wasn't sure what I was going to say at first. I knew in my heart what I wanted to say, but I didn't know how to convey the words without being accused of bringing condemnation. Flashbacks quickly ran across my mind about the last time I shared my "words of wisdom" at a bridal shower regarding ministering to your husband.

When the video camera came my way, yes they did tape it, I said, "Don't say no."

I breath a sigh of relief after I got the words out. I know that the women knew exactly what I was referring to. Relief didn't last long. Someone asked if I would explain that. I gave a quick version as my heart started to beat at a faster pace. Quickly glancing around looking for tomatoes. I already have enough salsa from the last time tomatoes were thrown at me. Ahhh, no tomatoes in sight. Just love from my sisters in Christ.

I can't remember what I said word for word, but here's my "words of wisdom"....

"As a wife, only you can minister to your husband in a way that no one else is suppose to do. He can go to church every Sunday, listen to the preacher preach God's Word and leave church feeling good. He can go to work 5 days a week and have the boss pat him on his back for a job well done. But what he really needs is for you, his wife, to minister to him by giving yourself physically."

In plain English, I would tell a young lady getting married that her husband will need sex. I would tell her that God has chosen her to minister to this need that her husband will have. A man can get sex from anywhere, but only you, as his wife can minister to him. It's a need that only she was designed to fulfill.

I'm really speaking here to my sisters in Christ. I can't speak to the women in the world. I don't want to pattern my marriage after the world. If we, as Christian wives treat our husbands like the world, we shouldn't be shocked when they act like the world.

I've jumped off the world's bandwagon a long time ago. I no longer string that out of tune guitar while belting out the loud roar of a song that's left many women my age lonely and empty. Instead, I've chosen to embrace God's plan for me. I know my body is not my own. I won't deprive my husband and not minister to him. (II Corinthians 7:4-5)

Words of a Homemaker

God, I want to do great things for you,

And speak to all the nations!

God replies:

That's well and good,

But for now

Fix your children's complications.

Lord, I want to straighten up the world,

Feed the hungry and fulfill someone's wishes!

God says:

Fine, but for the present,

You need to wash the dishes.

Lord, I want to preach, proclaim your name

And bring salvation to the earth!

God says:

Good! Then teach your children

And preach my name to those you've given birth.

At the end of the day,

I think of all I've done.

But as I look it seems,

I've accomplished nothing for the Son!

God I had no time to witness one on one,

I couldn't join my church group,

They said I missed out on lots of fun.

My household is the only thing

That managed to be cleaned,

My neighbor is the only one,

Besides my family I could feed.

The only ones I've read Your Word

Are those within my home.

God I've done so very little

And I feel so all alone!

God says:

I've seen the way you cleaned and cooked

And taught your kids My name.

Tomorrow morning at eight o' clock,

I'll watch you do the same.

The work you do at home,

Though no one really sees,

Is helping to raise little ones

To grow and worship me.

My ways are not your ways,

I don't expect you yet to see,

But the precepts that you've taught your children,

Will help others bow the knee.

Your children will reach out to others,

Your example in their mind.

They'll do great work for Me

And their children will respond in kind.

The hand that rules the world,

Also rocks the cradle.

Because of you, your children love Me,

All their hearts are stable.

Though your house is your domain,

Your tasks seem rather plain,

Your efforts will reach the multitudes,

Though from humble work they came.

I found this on the internet. I tried finding the author of this poem, but couldn't. Whomever wrote this poem, I want to say thank you. 

~~~~~

Yesterday after church, my children were talking about how much they appreciated us for not making them feel like a burden when they were younger. I sat there with a joyful heart as I looked at them while they were eating. The thoughts rapidly raced through my mind of the different times when they reached milestones in their lives.

How quickly they grow up. Cherish your children. Make a memory today. You can never have this day with them again. Watch them and keep them close. They may reach a milestone today. Don't miss it.

~~~~~

I hope and pray that all homemakers feel encouraged today and the days to come. Please know that what you do today, will be your reward tomorrow.

Winner of the "New Life" Apron Give Away is.....

 I just want to say thank you to all the women who left comments about what a new life means to you. Some of the comments really tugged my heart. I prayed and thought about each one of you on a daily basis for the last week. Blessing to you and your families.

 Here are the names ready to be drawn.....

 My hand got stuck in the mason jar. This is a wide mouth jar too. Hmm... :)

Here's our winner! Congratulations Nabila Grace!

*Update: Nabila was so touched by Jill K.'s story, that she giving her gifts to her.
Jill K., your story touched the hearts of many that read your comment. We thank our Father who is the giver of life. We rejoice with you!

Thankful Thursday - New Life

As I look at my beautiful daughter with her "baby bump," I can't help but to be thankful for life.

As my way of saying "thank you" for giving life, I'm hosting a give away. I'm giving away a maternity apron handmade by myself.

If you or someone you know are expecting to bring new life into this world, please leave a comment telling me what life means to you. I will be using the pattern below. Also, you will have a choice of the two fabrics shown. Please feel free to share this give away with others who may want to enter. This give away will end one week from today on Thursday, November 18th. The winner will be announced early Friday morning here on my blog.

*****Update: My friend Tasha over at  He's Everything to Me is joining me in this give away by donating a burp cloth, bib and a nursing cover-up from her etsy shop .

*****Update #2: If you live in/around or plan on visiting the Portland, OR/Vancouver, WA area, another dear friend has join this give away. Debbie at Farrar's Bistro is donating a complementary lunch for 2.

Simply Redeemed

Redeemed = to buy back; to recover; to exchange; to convert; to make amends; to obtain the release or restoration of, as from captivity, by paying a ransom.

Something extraordinary happened to me one day. The day when I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior, is a day that I will never forget. That was many years ago. I've changed. I've grown tremendously. Living the life I'm living now is one that I would dream about, but blocked it out because I wanted to be free and not bound by man.

Blindness invaded my sight to true freedom in the high calling of a wife and a mother.

I was in bondage in my mind and my heart. Struggling to find my identity, only to continue going deeper into the pit that the enemy dug for me. I was buried neck deep in the miry clay. I couldn't claw my way out of the pit. I needed help to get out.

What a day when my Savior came and released me from captivity. He paid the ransom. No longer did I have to live in the pit when my Father is the King. I'm His daughter. Living the life I dreamt about for so long.

Some may say that there's more to life than being just a wife and a mother. True. But I must say from my own experience, besides my relationship with God, there's nothing comparable for me than being a wife and a mother.

I've been simply redeemed and my way of thinking has changed!

Thankful Thursday - Titus 2 Mentors

Titus 2:3-5 "the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things—that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed."

November is the month when we celebrate Thanksgiving. I've decided to share what I'm thankful for each Thursday in November. I have so many things to be thankful for, but I wanted to start off by saying how thankful I am for the Titus 2 women who have imparted in my life. I'm so thankful that I had the chance to experience what it's like to have an older woman to live out the Titus 2 mandate.

My heart cannot express enough thanks for Mother Bradford who saw something in the neighborhood girl running wild and playing "hide & seek" with the boys. She would invite me to come into her home. I loved going to her home. It was so peaceful and pretty. She had a floral paintings and always, always had something baking or cooking. Her house smelt good too.

She got permission from my parents to start taking me to church with her. I would go every Sunday, even when I didn't want to go because it gave me a chance to escape reality. My home life was in such disarray and most of my childhood our family didn't have a car. Going to church gave me an opportunity to leave the "projects (ghetto)" for a minute.

Mother Bradford would teach me about how my body belonged to God and He didn't want me sharing it with anyone else. Oh, how she would embrace me after I would share with her my hurt of abuse and being used while trying to find love. Not once did she judge me. Instead, she would tell me about the man that God will send to me that will cherish me and love me. She prepared me for that man and I'm forever grateful to her.

I remember one day inquiring about why she dresses the way she does. Not that she dressed bad or anything, just different. Different from most women in the neighborhood. She always looked pretty. Pretty, just like her home decor. Simple and pretty, not a lot of glitz and glamour, but yet fascinating. She taught me about modesty. I didn't embrace modesty then. It took some time, a long time!

How blessed my life has been not only with Mother Bradford, but many women who have imparted into my life. If I could go back in time, I would glean even harder because I took it for granted that I would always have a Titus 2 mentor in my life.

I will always desire to have a Titus 2 woman in my life. I'm entering a new season in life. I'm now a Titus 2 woman.

She's Been Watching Me

This morning, my daughter Ruthie and I were texting. As always, it's such a joy anytime I talk to her whether via phone or text. When we are together, we make each other laugh without saying a word.

I realized this morning just how closely she's watched me all these years.

She was helping her husband get ready for work. She made him breakfast and packed him a good lunch. She even found some items he had lost. All this within 25 minutes. Her husband was so grateful that he ran back upstairs a minute after he started the car just to give her a kiss.

Ruthie said it's a great feeling helping her husband succeed even if it's with something as small as getting him off to work in time. Then she texted me this:

"Thanks mom, but I have you to thank. You set the example all these years. 

Little did I realize how much it impacted me!"

All these years of serving my husband were and are not in vain. My children were and are watching. I didn't realize those times when I kept my cool as my husband was scurrying around the house trying to find his keys or glasses would impact my children. But they were watching me. Especially my girls. Now that I look back, I'm so glad that I kept my mouth shut during those times when I wanted to lash out at my husband.

 Sarah and I two years ago having fun.

 Ruthie & I one year ago going to church.

 Me and my girls in April of this year at Ruthie's bridal shower.

Mothers, please know that you're children are watching you, Especially your daughters. Don't dismiss the small things you do in your home while serving your family. Those small things can and will have the greatest impact.

This picture of Ruthie and Sarah was taken yesterday while we were baking. 

I cherish these moments I spend with my girls.

 Mothers please cherish every moment you spend with your children. Make an impact on them today so that they can impact the world tomorrow.

My Son's Encounter

Yesterday I was washing dishes when I heard my son come through the front door huffing and puffing. He has just come from a corporate meeting with the company he works for. He's not part of corporate yet, being only 19 years of age. His hope is to someday make up the ladder with the company he works for. He started out a little over a year ago bagging groceries. My husband encouraged him at that time to move up within a year. He did just that.

The meeting he attended is held once a month. His boss encourages him to attend so that the people in corporate can get to know him. The only problem during this meeting, my son was the only male in attendance. He informed me that the meeting is open to everyone, but it's geared toward women and how women can advance in corporate with this company.

Next word that proceeded from his mouth, "feminist!"

He told me that he couldn't believe what was coming out of the mouths of the women. Over and over again he kept thanking me for educating him about the feminist movement and the dangers that come along with it.

We then proceeded to talking about his wife. He's not married yet, but greatly desires to be one day. Thus the reason for him trying to earn a sufficient living to provide for his future family.

My son walked away from that meeting wondering if he would ever find a young woman who would know the value of her role in the home. Many say he's asking to much from a young woman and that's the reason why he's still single. Perhaps that's the case. Or maybe he's just choosing not to settle. After all, he's very handsome and passionately loves God. He has a job and a car. Best yet, he's never kissed a girl and does not plan on it until after he's married.

By the way, my son said he wants to marry someone who's anti-feminist.

I say hooray for him!

I want to encourage all young women to look into the feminist movement and the history behind it before calling yourself a "feminist." You can search far and wide to find yourself a place in this world. Only to lose yourself by conforming to what someone else says you should be. 

Homemade Peach Cobbler

Over the years when we've opened our homes to guest, my Peach Cobbler has been a favorite among many. Often times my guest will ask for the recipe. I really don't have a recipe. 

I used to watch my momma make her Peach Cobbler hoping to see how much of this and how much of that she would add. When I asked her how did she learn how to make Peach Cobbler, she said by watching my grandmother (my dad's mom).

So as the tradition continues, here's how I make my Peach Cobbler.

Click on the link below for the pie crust I use.

Crisco Pie Crust 

I boil the peaches. I use can peaches. I normally purchase the big 6lb. 10 oz. can from Costco. I found that it's the right amount of peaches for a 13x9 baking pan. I drain most of the juice from the can and keep it for a peace cake in the near future. While the peaches are boiling, I add butter (about 3/4 stick). During this time I add my spices. Salt (teaspoon), cinnamon, brown & white sugar, a dash of allspice & ginger and a cap full of vanilla extract. After 5 minutes of boiling, you can taste the juice and add more spices to your liking.

Roll out the pie dough and cut strips. If the strips are longer than your baking pan, that's fine. Just tear off the ends and use the scraps to fill in gap.

Before you put the crust inside the baking dish, add enough juice to cover the bottom of the baking pan. Bake the bottom crust for 10 minutes on 350 degrees.

Add half the peaches to the first layer of pie crust. Earlier we drained most of the juice. As you can see in this picture, we still have a lot of juice.

Repeat pie crust layer. *Warning: the aroma from the boiled peaches & spices will draw a crowd into the kitchen. Be prepared to repeat "45 minutes" multiple times because your family will continuously ask when will it be ready. That's about how long it will until the Peach Cobbler is done.

Here's a picture of the Peach Cobbler I serve my husband tonight. It tasted so good he didn't mind the floral print on the plate.

I Didn't Make the List

I shouldn't have been surprised that I didn't make the list, neither should you. The list I'm talking about is CNN's 50 Most Powerful Women. Out of curiosity, I skimmed through the list seeing if I recognized any of the women. Now I'm wondering where I've been because majority of those women I have never heard of.  Just because I've never heard of them, doesn't mean much. After all, they've never heard of me.

How can a woman such as me make a list like that? 

I feel that I'm qualified to some degree. I'm Vice-President of the one of the most powerful and influential companies there is. Maybe next year I can ask the President of the company I work for to nominate me to make the list. He can tell them how hard I work within the company and all the long hours I've spent training the newbies on staff. Just wait until they see the financial spread sheet from last year. They will be wowed by my accounting knowledge. They will marvel at how I kept the company above water without steady income for a whole year and did it without using the companies credit cards. Surely when they find out the company I work for didn't get a bailout, but I still remained loyal to my present employer that would count for something right?

I have no desire to make such a list as that. However, I do want to be powerful in the lives of those in my home and have influence in my community.

My husband constantly reminds me of how valuable I am in our home. I finally came to the realization that he's right. I am valuable. Valuable to my family. I may not have made CNN's list, but that doesn't mean my hard work hasn't gone unnoticed. According to this my annual salary is over $117,000.

But as my husband would say, "You're priceless Honey."

You too my friend are priceless. Don't let society and the mainstream media tell you that you are not valuable. You are. The things you do around your home don't go unnoticed by our Father in Heaven. When you serve your families, do it as unto the Lord.

It's a new season. It's a new day.

I love this time year. The leaves are starting to change colors. The orange, red and yellow leaves are pleasant to my eyes as the sound of my husband's voice is pleasant to my ear as we ride along in the car.

While driving the other day, my husband asked me if I wanted to visit the Roloff Farm. I got so excited! We had planned on visiting last year, but it's always raining here in the Northwest and we didn't have an opportunity to go. So, if the weather man on the local news is correct, the weather will cooperate with our visit here.

I finally finished my Fall apron. I was quite pleased with it :)

My pumpkin candle is always burning in my home during the Fall months.

Leave It At the Well

Recently I've been reflecting on the encounter I had with Jesus many years ago. I find myself reading the story about the Samaritan Woman over and over again. Maybe it's because I can relate to her in some way. No, I haven't had five husbands and the man that I'm currently with is my legal husband. I'm referring to living a life of sin.

There was a time in my life when I would sugar coat my sinful past. I never lied about the things I did or didn't do. I just didn't reveal the whole truth. That in itself was sin. I may have been able to fool other people, but I couldn't fool the man who met me at my well. That man is Jesus.

There is one thing I wished I had more in common with the woman at the well. When she left the well, she left all the garbage there with the man that knew everything about her. A man who had become her Savior and redeemed her from a life of shame.

I remember vividly my day at the well. Oh, how my heart was filled with joy because I had received his forgiveness. But forgiving myself and those who hurt me.....I took some of the hurt away with me as I left the well. I heard the sweet voice of Jesus beckoning me to leave it there with Him.....Why didn't I?

I did finally. But it was after years of trial and failure of trying to take care of my own wounds. Only to replace the bandages with the same old dirty bandages from the previous wound. The multiple wounds kept getting reinfected. I would pour my peroxide remedy to get out the yucky stuff. Until I realized it was MY remedy.

Jesus had already given me a remedy to cleanse all my wounds. Just like he told the Samaritan that He would give her living water, that same water He was offering to me.

Maybe you're like me and the Samaritan Woman. You have a questionable past that's hindering you from being the wife and mother that you desire to be. I encourage you to go back the the well and leave everything there.  After you do that, do what the Samaritan Woman did. Go tell everybody about a man who told you about your past and forgave you from the sin you committed and the sin that was committed against you.
John 4:4-22

Here's a Glance of Baby Miller aka "My Grandbaby"

Can you hear me squealing over here? A few weeks ago I mentioned that I was going to be a grandmother for the first time. Just wanted my readers to have a glance at Baby Miller aka "My Grandbaby"

"For You formed my inward parts;

You covered me in my mother's womb.

I will praise You, for I am Fearfully

and wonderfully made.."
~Psalm 139:13-14

"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord,

The fruit of the womb is a reward."
~Psalm 127:3

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you;

Before you were born I sanctified you;

I ordained you a prophet to the nations."
~Jeremiah 1:5

"Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed.

And in Your book they all were written,

The days fashioned for me,

When as yet there were none of them."

~Psalm 139:16

Sharing Life

I cannot count the times I've sat at the table for lunch longing to share a tuna fish sandwich with someone. It wasn't because I was bored or home alone. Quite the opposite. My home is always bustling with noise and boredom doesn't exist due to the many sewing and quilting projects.

The longing I have is more than sharing a sandwich, but it's sharing life. As I look around at the different blogs, I see an influx of young women with a Titus 2 heart and a passion to learn how to be a Proverbs 31 woman. Recently, I've had the honor of connecting with them outside blogland. Some are still in there teens.


While reading the Titus 2 passage of Scripture, I often wonder where is the missing link. Are the younger women looking for us older women and we are no where to be found? Are the older women waiting for an opportunity to pour life's wisdom into younger women but they are so busy running to and fro thus not allowing time to glean? Maybe it's neither, but a fear of being transparent.


When we are transparent, we are made visible by a light shining through us. The result of transparency is exposure. When we are exposed, it simply means that others can see through us. 


I know there are things in the lives of women that we just don't want to expose. For me, there were things that I kept hidden for years. I was fearful. Didn't want to be transparent because that meant that other people would know "my business" and those secret things would be exposed. 


What I didn't realize, it's those very things I kept hidden were the very things that God used to set other women free. 


For years I wouldn't talk about my child birthing experiences. I didn't want other women to know that I felt like a failure. I felt as though I failed as a woman because I didn't birth my children naturally. It wasn't until I had a private conversation with a young woman who confided that she felt as though her body betrayed her too. Exposing how I felt about my experience brought freedom to her. Now when I meet women who birthed by cesarean section, I jokingly ask them if they want to join the "C Club." 


Sharing life. Sharing a transparent life. A life unashamed for all to see because the light that's shining through me is the light of Jesus Christ.

Following him as he pursues Him

Call me a girl who's living in a fairy tale and I'll tell you that this is reality. Reality is that I have this unquenchable desire for my husband and I'm not ashamed to admit it. I must start off by saying, we are not perfect. Far from it. But there's a love so deep. This love continues to be fueled by the passion we have for God. I know my fore-mothers are disappointed in my choice of living a "subservient" lifestyle, as they call it. I call it freedom. Freedom to walk in my calling and live my life as a fascinating woman. Not only am I a fascinating woman, as my husband calls me, but I'm fascinated. Fascinated by a man who strong enough to be a man. Yet gentle enough to understand me, a woman. A man who's confident enough in who he is as man by encouraging me to be a woman. As a woman, God places such a high value on me. God said it wasn't good for my husband to be alone. He values me, a woman, so much that He created me to be a helpmeet to my husband. Now if being a helper makes a woman subservient in the eyes of some, so be it. Although, I must confess.....I love being a helpmeet to my husband.I love waking up in the morning thinking of ways I can help my husband's day go better.
Since I'm confessing stuff, I must confess that I pick up my husbands dirty clothes off the floor. I know he's a big boy, but I love to take a whiff of his shirts after a hard days work. He smells so manly.I must confess that I plan my meals around the foods he likes. There's no better sound in the world to me than my man grunting while eating a delicious meal I've prepared.I must confess that my body doesn't belong to me and I've freely given it to him. With a smile on my face too. Oh how I love reaping the benefits. Freely give. Freely you shall receive. How my heart aches for women who have good husbands, but chose to believe the lies by our fore-mothers. Our fore-mothers told us to follow no man. There are numerous Godly men who are just waiting for there wives to trust them. I encourage my sisters to follow them as they pursue God. 

Laundry or Make-Up?

This was originally written on January 3, 2008. The message behind it is still the same. Create memories that will last a lifetime.

Today Sarah and I were home alone for a few hours. It's rare moments to get that one on one with the kids. Normally our one on one consist of having one of them jumping in the car with us as we go to the corner store.

Sarah wanted to do something fun. All I could think of was the load of towels just out of the dryer that needed to be folded and put away. The load in the washer that just completed the spin cycle. The load that was on the floor that I had to walk over just to get to my bathroom sink.

As I looked into her eyes and saw the excitement on her face, I knew it was an opportunity to create a memory.

Sarah has always wanted to put make-up on me. I asked her if she wanted to play "make-up." She said yes.

There was a problem, at least in my opinion.

"What about the laundry?" I asked myself.

I had the choice to either do laundry and be proud of my daily accomplishments or create a memory that will forever be sketched in the memory of Sarah's mind. I chose to use this time to create the memory. The laundry will be there tomorrow. After all, it was there yesterday. Twenty years from now Sarah will not remember stepping on the clothes that were on the floor. She will remember mom taking the time to play "make-up" with her.

So in your day to day living, remember to create lasting memories with your family.

Guess What?

They started courting in December 2009 with the permission of my husband.

Ryan flew up here in February to surprise Ruthie with an engagement ring. The whole family was in on it! You can read about the proposal under the "Courtship" label.

Ruth at the church preparing for her wedding day.

The big day is finally here! They pray and ask God to be the center of their marriage.

Friends and family celebrated with them.

Now say CONGRATULATIONS to Papa and Mema!
I know it's hard to believe that we are going to be grandparents.
I know you're saying to yourself, "Sandra doesn't look a day older than 21 and that handsome husband of hers is 25 & holding!"

Don and I are overjoyed that we are going to be grandparents for the first time.

A few weeks back, Ryan and Ruthie got confirmation that they are expecting a baby. Some say it was way too soon, but we say God is the giver of life. We applaud this young couple for going against the grain of society and see this baby as a blessing rather than a burden.

Now if you can remember to pray for Don and I as we learn boundaries. We've always said that we would never be those grandparents who spoil grandchildren. I sure wish we can take those words back. We have a plan already laid out for this grandbaby. Don and I looked at each other the other day and I said, "We're gonna be in trouble huh?!"

Shades of Gray

Life would be so much easier if things were black and white. One would be able to tell the difference between wrong and right. There are so many shades of gray that it's hard to define the color. Just like sin. We have turned from the true definition of sin which is a voluntary transgression of a religious law or moral principle.

If I were to take a survey of 10 people and ask them to give me a definition of sin, each will define it according to his or her own standard.

We have defined sin the way we see it. Not the biblical definition of what sin is.

A couple dating can have a night of heavy petting and sexual gratification occur without intercourse. No sin committed they say, but it depends on who you ask.

Many pro-lifers invest in stocks, bonds, 401k plans, etc. with the knowledge that their investments fund abortion providers. I believe they sincerely believe that life begins at conception, but are more concerned that they retire in comfort.

It's hard to find a decent movie that the whole family can enjoy together. How confusing it is for our children to grasp the context that the Bible says that we are to drink from our our cistern (Pro. 5:15) when we watch adultery and fornication with them.

I try not to complain often. When I do, God is swift to remind me that change has to occur within me first. It starts right here in my heart. Checking my heart to see if I've allowed my eyes to see sin through the many shades of gray. Seeking forgiveness if I've become lukewarm in any area of my life. Especially here in my home.

I can roll my eyes behind my husband's back and no one will ever know. But I would know. Yes I can justify it and say it's really not that big of a deal. Oh yes it is. First, the eyes roll. Second, the lip smacking and the rolling of the neck too. (I'm from the "ghetto" and I know how to do that quite well.) Before I know it, words will proceed from my mouth that will not show reverence toward my husband nor glorify my Father. I have to call it what it is. Sin.

I can not outwardly show respect for my husband while disrespecting him in my thought life.

If my heart is right, my eyes will be focused. If my eyes are focused, I can see things more clear. If I see things clear, I'll know the difference between wrong and right. Biblically speaking that is.

Proverbs 3:7 says, "Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil."

I Only Have One Shot

Some things in life I only get one shot to hit the target. There are many things that I can redo. I can redo the country decor in my home and bring it up to date with a more modern look. Many times I've looked in the mirror to redo my hair because I'm trying to cover up the wisdom that is starting to show through my black hair. One thing I can't redo is the watching my children grow up. I only have this time once.

Sarah is 12 today. She's at a fun age. It seems as though it was yesterday that I held her in my arms and nursed her for the first time. Those past years are gone and I can't redo them. Although sometimes I wished I could. Like the morning when she was 5 years old. I was impatient with her because she didn't read "Dick and Jane" the way she read it the previous day. Reflecting back on it, how silly of me. We live and we learn.

Don and I have spent countless hours late at night talking about our marriage and children. Guess you could say we communicate a lot and I believe that plays a huge part in our success here at home.

He was telling me about the peace he has at work because he knows I'm here taking care of home. We got into a conversation of me working outside the home. Only because I brought it up. It's the farthest thing from his mind. I'm not sure why I wanted to talk about it. Maybe because it's considered the normal thing for a woman to do once her kids are older. After all, my youngest is 12 and I've received enough hits from other woman that it may be time. Struggling to overcome my man pleasing and wanting to fit it, reality hit.

Reality hit when Don reminded me the passage of Scripture in Proverbs 29:15, "The rod and rebuke give wisdom, But a child left to himself brings shame to his mother."

I was so blessed to hear how much he appreciates me and the things I do around here. Things that I thought go unnoticed. He reminded me how valuable I was in the home. He said without me, there would be no home. It would just be a place to live. I couldn't help but blush and bat my eyelashes. He praised me as a mother to his children and remarked that they are the way they are largely due to the sacrifices I've made.

At one point in my life I didn't think I could be a good mom. When I started having children, I was young. Real young. One thing I knew for sure, I wanted the hearts of my children to belong to Christ. Which meant I had to do my part.

God had given me the right arrow (His Word) to target the core of their hearts. It was up to me to do the right thing with the arrow. I only had one shot. I couldn't go back and redo this. I had to take time to study the hearts of each one of my children to make sure I didn't miss the target. I couldn't be wrapped up in myself. The time is at hand right now.

There are so many things trying to capture the hearts of my children. The things of the Earth have their arrows ready. Waiting patiently for their moment to target the hearts of my children. I must take on the role that Jesus did. He became a mediator between God and man. I must be a mediator between the world and the hearts of my children.

I have my arrow in hand. I may miss out on shopping trips, extended vacations and dining out, but I won't miss my target....the heart of my children.