….in the mean time. i am pondering the idea of “old, new & used”. God tells us that when we put our trust in Him the “old” is made “new”. this is exciting for me. because “old” me was really bad. “new” me is NOT perfect. not even a little bit. but He is “using” me…for His glory. WOW. this journey is really exciting!

Chicago, IL

 www.gracewired.net

(check out the new lead pastor!)

Today is one for someone I love very much…

…hang in there. And when I say HANG, sometimes that is all, ALL you can do. My friend Wendy, who is now living in CA with her family told me that her husband was injured while working this week….he was hanging by his safety harness 65 up in the air atop a burning mountain. YIKES! That can put things in perspective REAL quick! Wrap your heart around the Loving God who created you and He will direct your path. Thank you God for your promise that you will never leave us or forsake us!

(copied from a website….)

EMPTY TOMB COOKIES
Cookies for Easter to be made the evening before Easter.
You will need to preheat oven to 300 degrees (this is important – don’t wait until you’re half done with the recipe)!

INGREDIENTS & SUPPLIES

1 cup whole pecans

1 tsp. Vinegar

3 egg whites

Pinch salt

1 cup sugar

Zipper baggie

Wooden spoon

Tape

Bible

Place pecans in zipper baggie and let children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested. He was beaten by the Roman soldiers. Read John 19:1-3.

Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 tsp. Vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink. Read John 19:28-30.

Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life. Read John 10:10-11.

Sprinkle a little salt into each child’s hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus’ followers, and the bitterness of our own sin.
Read Luke 23:27.

So far, the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1 cup sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him. Read Palms 34:8 and John 3:16.

Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents — in God’s eyes — the purity of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus. Read Isaiah 1:18 and John 3:1-3.

Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus’ body was laid. Read Matt. 27:57-60.

Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF.

Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus’ tomb was sealed. Read Matt. 27:65-66.

GO TO BED! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus’ followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed. Read John 16:20 and 22.

On Easter morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie.

Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow!

On the first Easter, Jesus’ followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty. Read Matt. 28:1-9

Share The Easter Cookie Story With Friends and Family!

and although my baby is too young to give out Valentine’s…she still wanted in on the action…

SO, with that….Happy Valentine’s Day to you all….we LOVE you!

2 things

1. my family blog is updated

2. for giggles, i have a blog that is kinda “for me” but would still love to share with you…

www.2011reasons.com

LOVE YOU!!!!!

Classic Without Edge 5×7 folded card

Unique party invitations and announcements by Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

yes, please!

i love a good bargin!

Happy New Year!

she is still liking her current home.

After my doctor’s visit today, I actually feel a little better. She will be here for SURE by this time next week! I will be induced on either 2/5/10 or 2/8/10 depending on the stats! SO…
…little one- enjoy your warm, cozy place for a few more days. Your eviction notice has officially been served!

Here is what I am hoping:

1. that she DOES NOT wait 13 more days!

2. that she is healthy

3. that she doesn’t try to come while I am driving, grocery shopping, taking a shower, or out with my “Big Kids”.

4. that she gets to meet her Aunt “M&M” (my sister) while she is in town for a brief visit!

5. that she likes being a part of this, my crazy family

COME ON Piper!!!! WE are SO excited to meet you!