INTERNATIONAL BLEND

Perfect Timing...

2010-05-28T14:01:00.000-07:00

Two years ago a friend of mine knew I was having a difficult time with an upcoming event. She sent me a note card with three scriptures on it and a prayer on the back of encouragement. It blessed my heart so much; her small gesture made a big impact on me in my hardship.
Part two to that story was two years later I was yet again struggling and wouldn't you know it, I found that card in my bible on the exact day she wrote it two years before. Now, let's put this in perspective, I use this bible daily and did not see this card for two years, it was apparently stuck in some obscure place. As Beth Moore puts it, "I could have a garage sale out of my bible," I am one of those types. I was in shock that it was indeed the same day two years later and I needed to heed those same verses again. She empowered me with prayer and encouraged me with scriptures and for that I am grateful.

I have a friend struggling. As women we all know those times when we feel like we just can't get it right. I call it the "And Then Syndrome." You and your hubby have a fight, and then the vacuum breaks, and then your kid gets sick, and then you have a bad hair day, and then you eat a whole pie, and then... you get the picture.
This precious friend can do all things, but her character is being attacked. You can't do ____, you're too ___ to do that, no one cares about your opinions, you're ____, oh and while you're down, I throw a big heapa ____ on you.

The Lord spoke to my heart about you.
This is for you sweet friend. 25 things I love about you!

You are a great listener
You love your husband and children
You know your faults and work on them
You love God's Word
You serve at church
You are very funny
You have beautiful blue eyes
You are adventurous
You are a great role model
You have a gentle spirit
You think before you speak, even though you don't think so
You have a good haircut, haha
You do not let your past hold you back from your future
You are transparent
You are trustworthy with secrets
You stick with people through trials
You are respected by your family and friends
You are weak and know to depend on God
You journal for your children, what a gift
You are full of life and energy
You like a good bargain
You always make meals for others
You are not controlled by your shortcomings
You tell good stories
You comfort and encourage others

I love having you in my life!
NHP

Food "Issues" and recipes

2010-05-25T17:51:00.000-07:00

While some posts are raves, this is a total rant. Prepare yourself.

I have been completely and totally disgusted by certain foods lately.
Specifically- Why does every single label I check have ingredients I cannot read or pronounce. Let alone "know" off the top of my head what those ingredients actually are. I mean I could be eating dog puke under the name hydrothrowupide. Mmm, yum. Add some of that to my yogurt ok?

At my house I try to stay away from three things. (And it is challenging at the store. This is why we have fallen in love with making food from scratch. Yes, we eat out and it is delish, but 75% of the time, I want it fresh with ingredients I can name. Breads, cookies, veggies, etc.)

1. No Partially hydrogenated oils- just google it, it will gross you out.
2. High Fructose Corn Syrup- I stick with good ol' sugar (or butter, cream or as natural as possible ingredients not Crisco or margarine)
3. Soy products. This one is the hard one. It IS IN everything. Go look at your Ranch, soybean oil- first ingredient, or your crackers, rices, cereal bars... soy lecithin or soy protein. Not the type of soy in Asia, minimally processed natural soybeans or soy flour. Were talking genetically engineered foods here people. We are only "supposed" to have 2 tsp a day of soy, yet it is in everything. The hard fact that hit home was my girlfriend diagnosed with breast cancer and the first thing they said, "NO SOY."

I am going more and more granola every day.
What is the world feeding us? What are we putting in our bodies? I am all about enjoying food and eating processed foods in moderation, (Um, yes, I say Bueno!) but day in and day out, what are we eating?
We all need to up the whole wheat, fruits, veggies and making things from scratch- not with the added dangers of over-processed, thick with preservatives, added oils, imitations sugars and in taking things we cannot even name! I am not even going into my thinking on meats. I only eat lean meats, such as chicken. I do not eat red meat. Not a vegetarian or vegan. And I have no "oh don't hurt the animal issues." This is about everything but the meat post.

I follow several blogs of healthy cooking, use allrecipes.com daily and get in the kitchen to make things from scratch- so fun and soooo yummy! What a sweet reward to make a meal or dessert and you know exactly what is in it!

This week my favorite was: Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal
I made it different each day, see what you like best. And Oh my, I cannot wait until the morning I will be having it again!

1 1/2 cups quick oats
1/2 cup brown sugar (or white, honey, guava juice, etc)
1 cup milk (organic cow, almond, rice, etc)
1 TB butter (or coconut, etc)
1 egg (or make a flax egg- 1 TB flaxseed to 3 TB water)
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla (or oh yes try it with pure maple extract)
1/4 c peanut butter (or crunchie, almond butter, etc)
Add-on's
1 TB wheat germ
1 whole banana chopped and stirred in before baking
1/4 c barley quick oats

Bake in a 8 x 8 pan (or easily doubles in a 9 x 13) at 350 for 15-20 minutes.
Serve dry or over warm milk.
OR even better- omit sugars and make a maple glaze to go on top!
1 TB butter
1 1/4 c powered sugar
1 tsp maple extract
2 TB milk

You will thank me.

As for a Ranch-like dipping sauce, here is Natasha's twisted Greek sauce.
1 c plain Greek yogurt
1 TB garlic
1 tsp both sea salt and fresh ground pepper
1 peeled cucumber chopped
8 oz cream cheese
1 TB lemon juice
1 ripe avocado

Add everything to food processor and blend until smooth. Refrigerate and serve on a sandwich or with chips. I had it like prayer today, just about added it to everything! I love making up recipes!

My sugar cookies were a hit this week:
1 c sugar
1 c butter
3 egg yokes
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract
1 c whole wheat flour
1 c unbleached all purpose flour
1/2 oats
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp cream of tarter
1/4 c apple sauce

350 for 10 minutes- they will not look done, pull them out anyway and let them cool.

I put homemade icing and sprinkles on them.

We all enjoy good food, right? Let's make it a mission to enjoy healthy foods more often and take a stand against mysterious ingredients!

What am I trying tomorrow?
SO EXCITED!!!

NHP

A new fishbowl.

2010-05-08T13:29:00.001-07:00

Well, it has been over a month since my last post! Sometimes I can really get on a roll writing and other times, life just gets too busy and something just has to go.
Instead of keeping up with blogworld, I have been busy cleaning, painting, organizing, packing, and oh yea, being a good wife and mommy during the day to my two kiddos...
Why all this fuss??
We have been busy preparing our house to sell.
I have moved many times in my life. Off the top of my head, I counted 10 times. Born in St. Louis, twice in Dallas, four+ places in Tulsa, twice in college and twice in marriage. I am sure I have missed a few. The point is, I felt I was rather good at moving. Boy was I wrong.

When my hubby and I felt God was leading us to move (not a world away, in the same area) I broke down crying. I mean, I just could not let go of this house.

I attended a homeschooling conference recently and the speaker shared how we women can let our homes become an idol that we serve, over the Lord. Ouch- I felt like she said that just for me! I surrendered this to God, then surrendered it again and again. Eventually I went from crying, literally tears flowing every night, to embracing the feeling that the Lord has something really good in store for us and the message was clear: "Get Your House In Order. I have plans for you," declares the Lord.

We are now spending our free time looking at houses and continuing to make our own home, which is on the market now, look as best as possible. And if you ever wanted another full time job, try keeping the house perfect with a two and four year old in toe. But it's getting better and easier. My prayer is for the right family (who wants a garden!) to fall in love with this house and for us to find a place we love as well.

Today was a good house hunting day. We had driven to over 50 homes. We went inside about 10 of them and hated them. I mean like- never wanted to live there. Today we saw inside 5 more. Two of them we liked, realllly liked. It actually got me excited.
Did I review my list as I saw them? Yes. But ultimately I want what God has for us over my list.
Which, if you are curious, includes things (some silly) like: how far is Wal-Mart, how far to church, is there a park close by, 4 bedrooms, school district, etc... You know stay at home mom requirements.

And `sidenote. How come in all those other times of moving, I just moved. No list, no real preferences. The home we are in right now was the third house we saw. Walked in, yep, we'll take it. Oh.so.carefree. Sigh.

In January we posted this verse on our fridge-
Isaiah 43:19
"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland."
It was in reference to my horrible season of unwanted fears and anxiety. The Lord holds me tight and is working on me in this area, but little did I know that so many new things would be springing up...

Getting close to a new kiddo joining our family
Adam's company moved locations this week
Baby explosion- all my family & friends are expecting new little ones
New adventure in homeschooling
New fuel efficient car for commute for Adam (on the back burner though)
New, New, New.
"He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!
And then He said to me, "Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true." Revelation 21:5
NHP

Day 21- THE END

2010-04-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it?? I did it!
And I did not cheat- NOT EVEN ONCE!!! No licking of the fingers while I made my kids food or a even secret nibble. I really felt that I made a covenant with the Lord about the Daniel Fast and I wanted to honor Him in abstaining from certain foods in order to fully rely on Him.
Twenty-One days... no dairy or sugar of any kind, no meat, no fried foods, no white flour and nothing but water or 100% juice.
Sounds easy huh? Well, you go try it, it was hard! Of course it was harder on certain days/moments than others. Day 5 and 14 were especially tough, but each time, I had to die to what my body wanted and choose Christ.
On that note- My husband said that he learned that by focusing on God you can control anything in your life. The example he gave was his thoughts, emotions, food or any area of struggle seem to fade away when you are truly focusing and relying on Him. (I told him, I wished I would get this into my brain!)

What have I learned about food:
-I am a total dipper. I struggled with once I made my food, I wanted to dip it in ranch, ketchup or ANYTHING to make it creamy and yummier. Well, that was not an option here as everything seemed to have eggs or sugar.
-Food is a source of comfort. When I was emotional or mad at the kids, I would want to eat. Irritable, eat. Not hungry, but bored, eat. Well, there is only one true source of comfort and that is Christ Jesus.
- We needed to expand our food repertoire. Even in 21 days I did not have all the veggies/fruit. I did not have green beans or blueberries, there lots of things out there, most people just choose not to eat them or learn to prepare them. We need to keep breaking out. I tend to shy away from new foods or they make me nervous. The word adventurous needs to be my song in many areas, but being adventurous is so challenging!
- The foods we are SO keeping in our house that we did not buy/make before are: hummus, cutie oranges, smoothies, wheat wraps, almond milk, homemade pizza dough (recipe at bottom), Larabar's, fruit preserves, pistachios and all baked chips.
-What did I miss most?- one word- CHEESE!

What have I learned spiritually...Oh boy have I learned a lot!
I pretty much have summarized it daily in my readings. Putting the good stuff in, definitely brought the bad stuff out. I am dealing with some issues, but that is part of life, isn't it? Not going for perfection, but relying on the One who is.

Reading:
The book of Daniel. GO, read it! Cannot even begin to summarize. Read it and let God show you amazing things. It is 12 chapters, I rarely read a book straight through, I challenge you to do it, it helps make so many more connections!

Menu:
Homemade Pancakes w/ apricot preserves and grape juice
Pizza w/ Hummus
Green bell pepper wrap w/ guacamole (I am good at guac now!)
Cereal
Fruit smoothie (I feel good at those now too)

High/Low:
One in the same...
- Preparing our Easter meal for tomorrow, soooo rewarding, looking forward to that!
- Preparing the Easter meal, not licking the cheesecake spoon, icing, having bacon, chicken or anything else until tomorrow. Press on for the prize.

Funniest thing: My girlfriend said, well I guess I should say, "Happy Diarrhea" instead of "Happy Easter." SO true. I am not sure how my body will feel adding all this back in. BUT one thing I know, more than adding food back into my life, is the importance of adding time in with the Lord Jesus.

My Easter prayer is that you too will seek Him and have His peace, His presence and His Word flowing into your life. Amen.

RECIPE
Pizza- (this is my new all-the-time thin crust)
No yeast pizza dough:
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp baking powder
2/3 cup water
1 TB veggie oil

Kneed and quickly roll out a very thin layer on baking sheet.
Poke holes with a fork and drizzle additional veggie oil on top and rub in with fingers.

Sauce: (This is my Daniel Fast sauce, but also a new fav.)
1 can stewed tomatoes undrained
1 TB minced garlic
½ tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp onion flakes
½ fresh ground black pepper
Mix and put onto uncooked pizza dough

Topping: (Any you want, the simplicity of this was unbeatable)
Thaw spinach, wring out until dry, crumble on top
Add a healthy amount of fresh ground black pepper over whole pizza
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil
(I think the EVOO and fresh black pepper are the key at any pizza!)

Bake 425 for 20-25 minutes or until edges are crisp
AMAZING!

Thank you for following along!

Happy Diarrhea, I mean EASTER,
NHP

Day 20

2010-04-03T06:18:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Luke 7:36-50 - Jesus anointed by a sinful woman. Just one of the most beautiful things ever. I read the version of this story in my daughters children's bible and it was soooo amazing- I cried. Then I read it in my NIV Bible and it was good, but the way they put the wording in her's was especially touching.

Jeremiah 39 and 40 -The Fall of Jerusalem. 39:17-18, "But I will rescue you on that day, declares the LORD; you will not be handed over to those you fear. 18 I will save you; you will not fall by the sword but will escape with your life, because you trust in Me, declares the LORD.' " AMAZING. Jeremiah had full favor of the Lord and was given freedom.

Romans 8- v. 4, Do not live according to the sinful nature, but according to the Spirit. This meant a lot to me today as I was very tempted and almost followed through with manipulation.

Luke 6:27-45, v. 36, "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful." v. 42,"You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." v. 45, "The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks."

Menu:
Fruit smoothie
Apple w/ p.b.
Cutie orange
Pizza w/ hummus
Mixed nuts
Juice

High/Low:
- Huge lunches are my staple. I really enjoy getting full from a good meal at lunch time. Its probably the reward for a busy morning and the cause of not much energy in that afternoon- ha!
- Adam and I didn't really eat a good dinner. We, along with the kids, were in major moods in the morning because of our low blood sugar.

NHP

Day 19

2010-04-01T11:10:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Psalm 19- I picked out my favorite verses:
1 and 3, 4: "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world." Isn't that cool to think about? That in every language of the world the skies are proclaiming the glory of God...

8 "The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart." Precept meaning- the rule, law, instruction and direction of the Lord is right and brings joy.

9 "The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever." Probably my favorite. It is amazing to me that 'fear and pure' can be used in the same sentence. Only the fear of the Lord is pure, all other fear is not of God.

10 "They (the ordinances of God) are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb." This is for AB, we had talked about honey for the Daniel Fast. Here is a good reminder, God's ways are sweeter than honey- amen.

11 "By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward." So true. Spend some time with the Word and God's ways and we are truly warned and rewarded- among many other things!

Menu:
Oatmeal cereal w/ strawberries and raisins w/ almond milk
Grapes and o.j.
Homemade pizza- to die for people, I'll share my recipe soon
Cantaloupe and peanut butter
Hummus, chips and cutie oranges

High/Low:
- For sure the crust on the pizza w/ homemade sauce. Ahhh-maze-zing!
- Mediating on Psalm 19 while playing with the kids. Realizing that He is my true honey, not earthly honey.

NHP

Day 18

2010-03-31T10:40:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Nehemiah chapter 1-2, spurred on by the verses that kept coming to mind all day from Nehemiah 8:10, "Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength." and Nehemiah 6:9, "But I prayed, now strengthen my hands."

Chapter 1- Nehemiah (great name by the way, that means "God's compassion") wept over Jerusalem, he fasted and prayed over the condition of the fallen city. V. 9 remembered the promises of God. V. 11, prayed that God be attentive to the prayer of His servant who delights in revering His Name. Asked for success and favor from the King. (King of the land)
Chapter 2- The King noticed his sadness and even though Nehemiah was afraid he told the King about wanting to go to Jerusalem. Verse 7, he made plans to go and men with with him. V. 12, didn't share too quickly what God planted in his heart about rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. V. 17, he shared with them and then everyone began the good work.

We always loved the book of Nehemiah and the meaning of the name, which is why we named our son Nehemiah. When we came home from Vietnam a local Vietnamese pastor prayed for Nehemiah and he said, "May Nehemiah live up to his namesake and rebuild the walls of Vietnam as Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem." Talk about tears!!! Such a precious memory.

Menu:
Pear and o.j.
Coconut Larabar
Sweet potato w/ stir fry and rice
Cherry smoothie
P.B. and Triscuits
Pasta salad

High/Low:
- A super salty soy sauce lunch. Without sugars in my life, I can tell I have enjoyed salty more.
- Most of my food intake is before 3pm (a lot between 8-12pm, like 4 times). I will eat a mini snack about 5ish, but I am so hungry throughout the morning. My low is that I feel bad not eating big meals with family because I just cannot stuff it in. It makes me feel stuffed and frankly, anxious. Its an area to work on...

NHP

Day 17

2010-03-30T10:01:00.000-07:00

Reading:
I had a question posed to me by a fellow participant in the Daniel Fast. She asked, "How is God leading you to the scriptures you are reading?" Thought about this question throughout the day... specifically the "how" part.

I think (more like I know) that I have to have God's Word in me daily to live in victory. I don't have to read the Bible, I want too. It is the only thing that keeps my head sane, my actions appropriate, my words gentle and keeps me focused on Christ instead of sin.
Every morning when I wake up, that is my first priority. I go to my closet. I pray outloud or on my face or on my knees or I write in my prayer journal. I want that intimate time with Him and He will never deny His children when they come to Him. On that note...
Every morning might not be THE BEST quiet time you have ever had, ever! Some day's you may read without thinking you got anything, but other days it is so meaty. Sometimes I want meat and cannot find it, sometimes I want to rush, but God is showing me something huge.

I have one book at a time that I read through and always come back to that when I don't know what my heart wants to read. I may want to read about Jesus' miracles one day, then about the fruit of the spirit the next day, I may need to go to the empowering verses of Romans 8 to conquer the day ahead or cry out to God along with the Psalms. Every day is different for me and I love the ebb and flow of God. I have tried many times to read through the bible in a year and it just does not work for me. Too ridged and structured. My personality is ridged and structured and I need my time with God, to be free and led by God, whatever He pops up into my heart. He is ALWAYS there to direct me into His Word.

Today when I woke up, I only heard one word: Josiah. So, I looked up all the verses about him. Here is what I learned.
Matt 1:11- Josiah is in the genealogy of Jesus Christ.
Prophetic word in 1 Kings 13:2, "A son named Josiah will be born to the house of David. On you (the alter) he will sacrifice the priests of high places (those worshiping idols)..."
Love what is recorded about him in 2 kings 22:2, "He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and walked in all the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left."
Then chapter 23- JOSIAH CLEANS HOUSE! (Removing evil in the name of the Lord)
- Removed and burned articles made for Baal and Asherah
- Did away with pagan priests
- Tore down quarters of the male shrine prostitutes
- Broke the shrines at the gates
- Desecrated the alter to Molech so no one could sacrifice their children
- Demolished, cut down, burned, smashed, defiled all things that were against the Lord
- Rid of mediums, spiritists, household gods and all other idols in the whole town

23:25, "Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him tho turned to the Lord as he did- with all his soul and with all this strength..."

Menu:
Oat cereal w/ walnuts and banana
Grape juice and 1/2 date muffin
Avocado, Rotel, black beans/rice w/ chips
Pear with peanut butter (together, yum!)
Noodles w/ broccoli in tomato sauce

High/Low:
- Today, EVERYTHING tasted good. My husband and I were talking the other day how neither of us wanted to eat anything the last few days. I didn't eat dinner one night because it was like I felt sick that I couldn't have something fattening, so my stomach went on strike. BUT today, everything I ate was like manna from heaven. Full of flavor, very satisfying and a gift from Him!
- Got a little too excited putting our Easter menu together. We are hosting a family lunch and that is when we are breaking our 21 day fast. Don't want to zoom by the good work that God is doing just to focus on eating "real" food in a few days.

NHP

Day 16

2010-03-29T12:20:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Romans 2
Verse 16, "This will take place on the day when God will judge men's secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares."
Verse 29, "No, a man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man's praise is not from men, but from God."

Menu:
Apple w/ p.b.
Orange, banana, pineapple smoothie
Date muffin
Black beans and rice w/ veggies
Chips, hummus and hot sauce
Grapes
Tomato wrap w/ sauce

High/Low:
-Choosing to feel energetic with strength from God instead of energy from food.
-Wanting to go to the store for new foods, but we have food here. It forced me to go through and see what we have and what I can fix.

A NOTE TO ERIN...
Thank for leaving a comment! I cannot figure out your blog or email or contact for you. I know you left a VN question once as well. Could you please leave your info... Thank you! ALSO I wish I was eating Vegan. Vegan's can have all the sugar they want. I ended up not being able to use many of those recipes because of the sugars, but other than that- yes it is close. I will check out those sites.

Day 15

2010-03-28T14:43:00.000-07:00

Reading:
1 Peter 3:3-6, "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight. For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful. They were submissive to their own husbands, like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her master. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear." Amen.

John 5:22, Didn't know Jesus was the final judge in Revelation, "Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son." (Rev 20)

1 Samuel 16:7, "The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."

Menu:
Oatmeal w/ raisins
Lemon Larabar
Beans w/ corn chips (baked) and hot sauce
Date and Banana Muffins w/ raspberry puree
Tomato Pizza

High/Low:
- Having fun in the kitchen again baking Date Muffins
- Realizing how much comfort food really brings me, getting to that place each day saying things like- "Lord, You comfort me more than food. OR You, Jesus, sustain me more than bread."

NHP

Day 14

2010-03-27T17:05:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Phil 4:4-9, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me— PUT IT INTO PRACTICE. And the God of peace will be with you."

Today was a "put it into practice" kind of day. It was hard spiritually and foodwise. What did I learn?
-There are moments when you feel like you are being stretched like a rubber band. Stretching it to its limits yet not breaking, but you can be used to the fullest in this way.
-If I was confident all the time and never anxious, I would not fully rely on Him. I have to be weak so I can be strong in Him. Or rather, let His strength burst forth in me. (2 Corin 12:10, "That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.")
-Don't want people to see the outside anyway, appearances are deceiving, see the dependence on God. Isn't that what I like to see in others? His light shining through them, nothing of their own merit but relying on His strength.
-The voice of the enemy is on repeat. He always uses deception and lies. Must only listen to the voice of my Shepherd and take captive every thought. (2 Corin 10:5, "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.")

Menu:
Fruit smoothie
Avocado Tomato wrap w/ chips
Carrot muffin w/ p.b.
Apple w/ p.b.
Cereal w/ walnuts, dates and raisins w/ almond milk
Smoothie King

High/Low:
-Feeling great about packing a lunch today to head to OKC for an adoption party.
-Having to eat that lunch when they provided free donuts, pizza and pop for everyone at the party. I actually went to the car and shed a tear. I wanted pizza so bad. But God knows my heart and we are doing this fast to get closer to Him. (Heb 11:6, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.")

NHP

Day 13

2010-03-26T11:01:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Luke 11- Jesus teaching us how to pray. Verse 9-10, Ask and receive, Seek and find, Knock and it will be opened to you. 13- Child asks for egg would give them a scorpion? How much more does your Father in Heaven know how to give you good gifts. Never noticed verse 19 before, " Now if i drive our demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your followers drive them out?" ouch- go JC! Also never noted how Jonah was a foreshadowing of Jesus. Three days then brought good news of repentance and a way to God. 46- the Pharisees were "clean" on the outside but really wicked on the inside. They loaded people down with burdens of the law yet they should have shared as teachers.

Titus
1:16- They claimed to know God but denied them with their actions.
2:5- Women be self-controlled, pure, busy at home, kind, subject to husbands and follow the Word of God 2:10- fully trust as to in every way make the teaching of God our savior attractive. 2:11- "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives."
3:3-6, "At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior."

Menu:
Carrot muffin w/ almond butter and kiwi
Hummus w/ Triscuits
Avocado & tomato Cajun wrap
Three pepper salad (WOW)
Apple w/ p.b.
Whole wheat pasta w/ tomato sauce

High/Low:
- Looking forward to sharing the Three Pepper Salad recipe- it was soooo good.
- Waiting too long to eat lunch and totally crashing with irritation. I guess it was a blood sugar dip or something. Even though I am fasting, I do need to eat every 3 hours on this deal. Trust me, the fast is still working, I go to God constantly with, "I love you more than this sausage patty," (as was the case today) or "You satisfy me more than raw cookie dough right now."

NHP

Day 12

2010-03-25T09:57:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Jeremiah 37- Jeremiah thrown into a dungeon. The king comes to him to ask if he has heard a word from the Lord. He also begged the king to release him to the courtyard so he would live and survived the imprisonment.

Jeremiah 38- God sent a guy named Ebed-Melech to save Jeremiah from a muddy cistern. He continued to deliver the Word of the Lord even when it wasn't what people wanted to hear. Sounds like our present day...

Psalm 12- Verse 6, "And the Words of the Lord are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times."

Proverb 12- Good stuff about the consequences of the wicked and protection of the righteous. The righteous flourish, he escapes trouble, overlooks an insult and is truthful. Verse 28, "In the way of righteousness there is life." This can be compared with John 20:31, "Believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His Name." Amen.

Meal:
Homemade Carrot Oat Muffins w/Raspberry puree
Avocado w/ sesame chips
Bean and lettuce wrap w/ hot sauce
Orange Strawberry Pineapple fruit smoothie
Carrot muffin w/ almond butter
Cajun sweet potato fries

High/Low:
-The muffins I made were amazing! Eating something breadish was great.
-I can only wake up so early (6am daily) but my daughter is so early to rise that she always comes in during my quiet time with God. I love her and want to teach her and let her have her own quiet time, but this morning she must have had coffee on the way to my closet (where I read) and I was more irritated than focused.

NHP

Day 11

2010-03-24T11:11:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Community Bible Study on Rev ch. 20.
Wed night bible study with our small group talking about lifestories.
(Yes, the only bible studies I attend and they are both on Wed's! Ahhh)

We posted the following verse on the fridge in January, I have read it everyday for almost 3 months now and today saw a new word in the verse. How is that possible?!

"Forget the former things;
do not dwell on the past.
See, I am doing a new thing!
Now it springs up;
do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the desert
and streams in the wasteland."
Isaiah 43:18-19

The word I had read over and over but just now noticed was the word "NOW". I felt in my spirit that "NOW" it springs up. That was a little precious anchor in my heart.

Menu:
Apple w/ p.b.
Orange and pineapple smoothie
Black bean and avocado wrap
Cherry Larabar
Triscruts and hummus
Veggie soup

High/Low:
-The hummus I made did not look good, but wow it tasted pretty good and was extremely filling! I was not hungry for over 3 hours.
-No one wants to hear a thin person talk about weight loss, I do not want to lose any more weight, but being on this type of fast it is bound to happen. So my low is looking too thin.

NHP

Day 10

2010-03-23T11:12:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Meditating on the thought- Your sin nature vs. Christs Spirit inside you. How they are at war and we have to continually give ourselves over to Him.

Isaiah 2:3, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us His ways, so that we may walk in His paths."

Isaiah 11- Verse 5, "Righteousness will be His belt and faithfulness the sash around His waist." I also love a good descriptive sentence and thought verse 9 was beautiful, "For the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea."

Thought- I do not have to be perfect. Struggling is normal and God loves my dependence on Him. Also the scripture 1 Peter 5:9 came to mind, "Resist the devil, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings."

Menu:
Banana and almond butter w/ cranberry juice
Grapes
Bean dip w/ chips and guac and cucumber
Cinnamon Larabar
Black bean burger w/ couscous

High's:
-My hubby started his Daniel Fast today so it is a bit easier to eat together and talk about food.
-The word I got from the Lord this morning was to trust Him like my kids trust me.

Low's:
-Really hit a wall with so many snackie foods and not any real hot downhome cooked meals.
-First thought this morning was, this is the longest 10 days ever (and it's out of 21!) Press ON!

NHP

Day 9

2010-03-22T19:23:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Rev 20 and answered questions about the text in depth. Love that in v. 3 Satan is thrown into the abyss, locked and sealed inside - why?... to keep him from deceiving the nations.

Parable of the talents- Matthew 25:14-28. There are times in life when we are given much, and much is required. But I am noticing that there are also times when we are handed little and have to work really hard at just handling that. Once that is in order, God starts to multiply what He gives us.

Menu:
Orange
Apple w/ p.b.
Sauteed potatoes
Pickles and cranberry juice
Bean buritto w/ guac

High/Low:
-God's peace
-Missing chicken today

NHP

Day 8

2010-03-21T18:23:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Acts Chapters 1-3. Wow are those jam packed with goodness! 1:8, you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. 1:24, prayed for direction knowing that the Lord knows everyone's heart.
2:25-28, you will fill me with joy in Your presence. 2:38, repent, be baptized and receive the promise of the Holy Spirit. 2:42, devoted themselves to teachings, fellowship and prayer.
3:6, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the Name of Jesus Christ, 'walk'." 3:16, by faith in the Name of Jesus this man was made strong, it is in Jesus' Name and the faith that comes through Him that have given him complete healing.

Psalm 119:11, said as a prayer...
Hide Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You.

Menu:
Strawberries, apple w/ peanut butter and o.j.
Guac and chips
Brown rice and veggie stir fry
Smoothie King

High/Low:
- I'm on repeat here, but my mind clarity when I read is superb
- Going to have to forgo as much free reading to play catch-up with my bible study on Revelation

NHP

Day 7

2010-03-20T13:28:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Luke 21- Widow was giving out of her poverty. Verse 8, watch out that you are not deceived. V 14, make up your mind beforehand how you will handle yourself. Verse 15, love, "For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist." 33, His Words will never pass away. 34, do not let your heart be weighed down.

Prov 5 and 6- 5:3, Stay away from adultery. 15, drink from your own cistern, run water from your own well. Verse 21, "For a man's ways are in full view of the Lord and He examines all his paths."
6:3 Keep yourself humble with your neighbors. 8 Wisdom stores its provision in summer and gathers its food at harvest. 26, great simile, for the prostitute reduces you to a loaf of bread, no one who touches adultery will go unpunished. 32, a man/woman who commits adultery lacks judgement, whoever does so destroys himself.

Menu:
Fruit smoothie
Banana w/ Peanut Butter
Ginger Larabar
Guacamole w/ chips
Pear
Veggie "chili"

High/Low
-Homemade guacamole w/ chips was to die for! I was praising the Lord for a good meal.
-My mind has energy too and I cannot fall asleep easily. And I still wake up early.

Day 6

2010-03-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Psalm 51- So good! Verse 10, Create in me a pure heart O God and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 12- Restore to me the joy of Your salvation. 14- You are the God who saves. 16- You do not delight in sacrifice or I would bring it... the sacrifices of God are a broken spirit.

Rev 20- Martyrs reign with God for 1,000 years then Satan comes yet again with deception to gather his army, but God sends them to the lake of burning sulfur and this begins the day of judgement and looking into the Book of Life.

James 1- Verse 2, you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance and it must finish it's work so you will be mature and complete. 20- For man's anger does not bring about the righteousness of God. 25- Look intently into the law of freedom. Look after orphans and widows and keep oneself from being polluted by the world. Amen.

Menu:
Apple w/ P.B. (#1 filler thus far)
Grapes
Two bean corn wrap w/ rice
Cherry Larabar
Cashews and orange juice
Hash browns and carrots

High/Low:
-Having great energy.
-Hitting a 5:30pm total food crash. Almost cried trying to cook dinner. Needed to eat and couldn't figure out what to have and trying to serve family other foods was hard.

NHP

Day 5

2010-03-18T16:08:00.001-07:00

Reading:
Ephesians 6- The Armor of God. How to be strong- Verse 10, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power." 11- Taking a stand against the devils schemes.

Amos 6- Haughty attitudes got them in trouble. And in the end they still said in verse 13, "Did we not take this by our own strength?" Uh, no, you didn't and either can I.

Proverbs 31- All good! 25, laugh at the days to come.

Matthew 4- After fasting for 40 days Jesus was tempted by satan. He always answered with the Word of God. Then He started His ministry on earth after this trial. Verse 4, "Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God." Verse 10, "Away from me, Satan!"

Menu:
Banana w/ almond butter and grape juice
Coconut Larabar and pineapple
Corn tortilla w/ two bean rotel on wheat rice
Peanut butter & oatmeal "cookies"
Orange Smoothie
Okra and sesame sticks

High/Low:
-Being creative in the kitchen with what you can eat is fun.
-Starving today. Needed to pray through it instead of being irritable.

NHP

Day 4

2010-03-17T11:43:00.000-07:00

Reading:
2 Corinthians Ch 9 and 10- 9:8- God is able... All... go read it. Verse 10- Now HE who supplies seed and bread will increase and enlarge a harvest of righteousness. 15- God is the first gift giver. 10:4-5, using our weapons that really work, 13- not comparing to others.

Jeremiah 36- Verse 9- the whole town fasted, that is amazing.

Psalm 4- All good. 7, "You have filled my heart with greater joy." Verse 8, "I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety."

Prov 4- Verse 5- Get wisdom, do not forget My Words or swerve from them. Again wisdom protects us, watches over us. 13, "Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life." 18- 27, Warnings to keep, guard, put away, look straight, fix, make level, not swerve, all reminds me of Fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith from Heb 12:2.

Menu:
Banana w/ peanut butter w/ grape juice
Pecan Larabar
Avocado & tomato Cajun wrap
Pineapple and walnuts snack
Amazing Orange smoothie! (minus the sugar)
Black Bean & Rotel mix w/ sesame sticks

High/Low:
-Seeing strength come and swoop in at the last second and provide for me.
-Watching my hubby eat Ramen. The salty, chickeny broth with noodles actually made my mouth water. BUT again, the reason for the fast is that God satisfies me SO much more than Ramen ever could. Does Ramen save me, help me, correct me, love me, care and comfort me and listen to my prayers?

NHP

Day 3

2010-03-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

Reading:
Philippians Ch 1 and 2- ALL Good! Especially love 1:12 & 19. Two fold... What happened to Paul served to advance the gospel and what happened to him will turn out for deliverance. Ch 2:9, Jesus has the Name above every other name.

Psalm 3- LOVE (the Michael Gunger song of this Psalm)
Verse 7-8, "Arise, O Lord! Deliver me, O my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked. From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people."

Prov 3- Verse 6, In ALL your ways acknowledge Him and He WILL make your path straight. V. 12- Seek Wisdom! All her paths are peace. Verse 26- "For the Lord will be your confidence."

Menu:
Banana strawberry smoothie w/ rice milk
Peanut butter stirred into grain "cookie"
Avocado and tomato Cajun wrap
Apple sauce oatmeal
O.J. and sesame chips
Couscous (w/ veggie broth instead of water- so good!)
Carrot and pea salad

High/Low:
Enjoying food tastes in a new way.
That means my low is not covering everything in Ranch. I miss you.

NHP

Day 2

2010-03-15T11:08:00.000-07:00

Reading:
2 Corinthians 4- ALL good! 6- "For God, who said, 'let light shine out of darkness," made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ." That is a lot to chew on, but oh so beautiful. He always shines His light into darkness.

Jeremiah 35- God told the story of the Recabite family. How they honored their forefathers yet how Israel could not even honor God though He spoke, sent servants and prophets. The Racab family would never fail to serve God.

Psalm 2- 2- Kings and rulers gather together against the Lord, But God says in verse 6 that He has installed His King and gives warning in verse 10-11 to serve Him and in 12, blessed are those who take refuge in Him.

Prov 2- LOTS of action words... store up, turn and apply our hearts, call out for insight, cry aloud, look and search for God and we will understand the fear of the Lord and find knowledge. 7-12 states that He holds victory for us and gives us wisdom that will save us from the wicked one.

Phil 2:12-13, "Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose."

Menu:
Apple with almond butter w/ o.j.
Avocado and black bean wrap
Salad w/ sesame chips
Lime Larabar
10 grain "cereal" with 1/2 banana and almond milk
Mini-black bean wrap with soy sauce
All natural Raspberry fruit spread on a spoon for dessert

High/Low:
- The clarity of my mind is amazing, no sugar fog!
- Heartburn again and will have a fruit shake tomorrow, needed that pick-me-up today

NHP

Day 1

2010-03-14T15:44:00.001-07:00

For the next 21 days (now- Easter) I will be recording the progress of my Daniel Fast. I thought about sharing or not sharing for a bit and asked my hubby about it. I want to say that these posts are not to be haughty in any way, yet to share my experience through a spiritual fast.
To sum up, the Daniel Fast is a 3 week spiritual fast or spiritual exercise, if you will, following the Biblical example of the prophet Daniel's journey with fasting. Over the course of 3 weeks you fast from certain foods in order to bring strength to your spirit and increase your devotion to God. The naughty things are all meats, breads, dairy and sweets. Daniel fasted from these items for the following reasons: to draw closer to God, to stay pure, to seek the Lord for wisdom, direction and answers to prayer.
Basically you can have fruits, veggies, beans, nuts and bread without yeast/sugar. And when you realllly want it, you pray. Letting the Lord sustain you instead of the food.

Our spirit is fed on the Word of God, so I will be sharing what I read, the menu for the day and how I generally felt physically- high/low (as in the game).

Reading:
Jeremiah 34- In verses 1-3, it is all God's warnings. City will come to ruin, burned and you will not escape. BUT in verse 4 it says, "Yet hear the promise of the Lord." Listening to the promises and not focusing on the disaster.

Psalm 1- Verse 6, "For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous." I am always reminded here that the words Righteous and Christ are interchangeable. Try it anywhere in the Word, its cool. He watches over those in Christ.

Prov 1- ALL good! Verses 7- fearing the Lord, 10- do not give into sin, 23- respond to rebuke and God will pour out His heart and share His thoughts with you, 29- choose to fear the Lord, 33- "But whoever listens to Me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm."

Genesis 3- In verse 13 the serpents methods are always the same... deception. He deceived Eve, she believed it and ate the fruit. Same Same. I want to recognize this easier.

Menu:
Strawberry and almond shake
Apple with peanut butter
Salad with sauteed potatoes
Cinnamon Larabar (OMW- amazing!)
Veggie lasagna

High/Low
- SO MUCH ENERGY today. Truly amazing!
- Had heartburn all day, yuck, new food choices I guess.

NHP

Getaway

2010-03-07T17:37:00.000-08:00

A little summery of our weekend... We had a couples getaway in Branson!

We were thrilled to be invited by a girlfriend whose parents have a timeshare at a condo near Big Cedar Lodge. One of the best parts was that I did not have to plan a single part of the trip (very uncharacteristic of me)! We divided the room rate, the food and gas. We enjoyed our time with the Morris', Butters, Bellots, Wagners and Henslees. They are all amazing couples and we loved our fellowship time with them!!!

We have not had a couples getaway in years and its been over a year since we were without the kids. Everyone's kiddos stayed with family or friends for the weekend and boy does it feel weird to be kidless... for the first couple hours anyway, then its pure heaven. No bottom's to wipe, food to cut, tiff's to break apart and oh, silence is golden.

Here are the two beautiful women who planned and prepared our weekend.
The view from our balcony at sunset. Can't you just feel the peace?
My honey.

Our room. King bed, five spray shower, beautiful view, we surly felt spoiled rotten.

Everyone delighted in playing pool and boardgames and they had a theatre room. The girls watched The Proposal one night and the guys watched Gladiator the next.

The boys playing poker. Did not hear who won this game, well say it was Adam. : )

My favorite place of the house. The Grand Kitchen. There was a full table, breakfast nook and stools at the bar. Everyone enjoyed cooking and eating meals together. And seriously the meals were as grand as the kitchen: Cajun shrimp boil, homestyle breakfasts, steak, turkey and every delicious dessert you can imagine. (Excuse me while I take a blogbreak for some chocolate torte I took home, typing about the dessert was just too much.)

Often the men and women would veer off into groups. It was fun to talk uninterrupted about girly things: marriage, child discipline, God stories and more! I asked Adam what they talked about: "you know, guy stuff." Ha.

The Bellots shrimp boil. As I mentioned before, everyone came with divine food plans that catered to our "educated palates". That is a new phrase I learned this weekend. Along with the true meaning of "big top". Think- large shirt, not circus, along with boardgame confusion.

Our double cooking night in the kitchen. Adam and Michael worked so hard making dinner. Insert whistle- wheewt whhooo!

We played the high-low game driving home. (The way there was couples, the way home was girls/guys.) We had sooo many more highs and maybe one low each, so that shows it was a blessed trip. Everyone stayed up till about 2am each night. It was WILD for me to do such a thing, but it was worth it. We do all agree that our bodies, both from overeating and lack of sleep, are paying for it, but I cannot think of a better way to mistreat ourselves- fun times with friends is a cherished gift from God indeed!

"When Jesus saw their faith, He said, 'Friend, your sins are forgiven.'"

NHP

Oregon Trail

2010-03-01T13:37:00.000-08:00

Have you ever woke up one morning and thought, "Who is this person?" And I am NOT talking about a one night stand here, I am talking about... yourself!?
This has been me over the last few months. Going from the old self to the new self. After a season of extreme emotional turmoil and spiritual battles, I am beginning to see the light.
It is almost as if God said to me, "OK, my daughter, you are over there and I want you to be over here. So I am going to move you. It's going to be very painful. I am going to tear up some really deep roots, till the ground and plant many new things."
This came as a revelation after reading John 15. That Jesus is the true vine and God is my gardener. God will cut off every branch in me that bears no fruit. While those that do bear fruit, He will prune so they will be more fruitful. Do you see a trend here? Either way, cutting or pruning, not one part of you gets to just rest, its all being tended too. All... ouch!

What has come out of such intense unrest? A totally different person!
I still know my areas of struggle of course, but I needed to work on other areas as well. Specifically how I prioritize my time, family life, talents and more.

I know the Lord has been working in me to let go of some busyness. Basically the good ol' American standard of life. Just how He did this I am unable to share, but lets just say it was painful and scary and took me to my knees, literally.
When you get to a point that you cannot function, your God becomes really big. And even though I was close to God before, I had slipped in several places and I was on cruise control- meaning self reliance. Prune that away and you will be clinging to Jesus for dear life. Which, by the way, is apparently where He wants us to be.

Oh and something beautiful I have learned... Victory in self pales in comparison to His victory through us.
As I let Him accomplish in me that which I cannot and am incapable of doing, my heart is full of worship and praise to Him. Again, right where He wants us to be.

During this reworking of my mind- which I am still doing and should continue to do as long as I breathe air- came a lot of clarity about priorities.

Here are a few things that are going on in our house...

1. Background: I taught school full time and KNEW that I would teach while having kids. *But God told me in 2006 to obey and stay home. He peeled my fingers away from my job. I let go and have loved my season of stay-at-home-motherhood. Then came the time for my kids to start school. I KNEW that I was an advocate for public school. I KNEW that I would be homeroom mom and PTA volunteer, a light in the darkness and the like. *But God told me to obey in 2010 and homeschool. We have committed to do this in 2010-11 the four year old program, most likely Sonlight. We will take these school decisions one year at a time. SO MANY factors came into play with this decision.
Here are just a two: The older child coming into our home will NEED to be at home. Playing catch-up in many areas and the kiddos in my home are not ready to be out of the home all day (or even half the day, everyday).
Then there is the crazy run around. This is part of the busyness I was talking about. Always on the go, go, go. It just needs to stop. Part of our season right now is time. at. home. playing. and. being. a. family!

2. Planning at-home-time. Everyone plans things out, right? Dinner date, movies, mall, errands, vacations and such. BUT do we ever plan things at home? "Oh, what are you doing on Friday night Natasha?" Well thanks for asking, "We are staying at home to play in the backyard with the kids followed by a macaroni and cheese dinner!" Planning at-home family time on purpose is hardly ever seen in our culture. Play games, make dinner together and enjoying one another at home. It's sticking to the theory of God, spouse, kids, others... not the other way around.
I have also been thinking about taking a vacation this summer. At HOME. You know, no emails, calls, plans, errands... just hanging out with my most precious gifts and doing stuff around the house. What-a-shocker!

3. Focus on lining the "event" up with God and your family first. Ok, let me unpack this. We added up the time we spend as a family during the weekdays. It was 7 hours a week. We are out of the house for volleyball and small group two nights a week, so my hubby only sees the kids on those days for 30 mins. The other 3 days its exactly 2 hours. (Weekend time varies of course)
So if someone calls and wants to have coffee, have a girls night, do this or that, I need to think to myself, "Will I be spending more time with you this week than my OWN family?" And by the way, we are not a super busy family. We have learned to say no, a lot, but still, everyone is pulled in different directions and we have had to say NO this week more than ever (I know we were tested) because we said to ourselves that we will not let anything come between our 7 hours a week of family time. Period. I am not saying we are sacrificing strong family and friendship ties, I am not, this will only make those connections stronger because our time with others will be valued instead of rushed.

4. Like the rest of the world, I love to save money. I love sales, but when it came to couponing and food budgeting, that just didn't seem to apply. February was the first month that this strong intense desire to use coupons just came over me. And made time to make it a priority. I got on line, called trusted friends and am learning to save money, on purpose. And it has worked! We save over $35 dollars this month in groceries.

5. Gardening. I set this as one of my New Year's resolutions and it is on its way. I have the plans drawn out, the size of boards needed, a dirt guy lined up, a highlighted list of veggies and fruits that we will be planting and I CANNOT wait! I feel overjoyed that God would call me to plant a garden. Especially during this time where I am clearly being worked on by my Gardener!
I would rather be in the dirt with my kids than on, let's say, Facebook. I am pro-internet communities of course, I mean I am writing this on a BLOG, but I am not sure this is always the case for many people in our society today. It has convicted me and I choose to be like a woman on the Oregon Trail. Yes, that is my goal. Totally dependant on God for my daily bread, my livelihood, educating my kids, working the land, stopping the unnecessary busyness that leads me personally and our family into a downward spiral.

6. Bringing the TTT. Our pastor did a series over the holidays that talked about what we could bring to the Lord for Christmas. It was three T's. Bringing our Talent, Time and Treasure. I think this is well said because all important things to me seem to fall under these categories. God has obviously been working on some time and treasure issues with me. And now its on with the talent.
My sweetest friend said to me one day, "I know why you have these "issues", you need them to keep you humble, because you can do everything." I am not saying this to brag. Unlike my hubby who exudes the fruit of the spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control) I stumble on these daily, but my talents overflow. I do not know why I can paint, cut hair, adopt, write, organize, teach, cook or do anything else. Trust me, the list of "can't do's" that is thrown in my face daily far exceeds this list. BUT I am focusing on gifts that are from Him. You have many too! What am I DOING with these talents?? If I am too BUSY I know I will not use them. Slow down, unplug and create for Him and for others. In using my gifts I am serving Him. To me it is a form of worship.

7. Be empowered. All the things I do, whether at home or on the go, I must be empowered. "I" just cannot do it because it leads me to those unwanted issues. I have to stay empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Psalm 138

Off to watch my husband hunt game, collect wood to float my covered wagon across a river and pray we are not stricken with dysentery.
NHP
P.S. Here is my hubby's trip to Haiti!
P.S.S. If you made it through this entire blog post- gold star for you!

2010-02-08T12:31:00.000-08:00

This post was inspired by my girlfriend, Evie! She is pretty much amazing at everything and super creative. She has a great blog and lately has been posting things such as this or this, calling them wardrobe refashions. Basically taking old clothes and making them into something fabulous with a little cutting, sewing and creatively thrifty thinking.
SO THIS ONE IS FOR YOU MY DEAR...
Step one- Take teenagery top that I will never wear and do the following:
Take off buttons
Cut binding and uncuff sleeves
Remove waist tie thing
Step two-Voila...
Iron the top and add a cute pen to connect the sweater together.
Then ask your mommy to take a picture (I know not as cool as Evie's lighting and pretty face looking off to the clouds, but oh well, at least I tried...)
Step three- take the buttons and sew them onto a pillow that had a bleach stain.
I bought this pillow last year in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in the silk district. I loved it so much and it is special to me, but somehow it has gotten a bleach stain right in the middle of one of the patches.
I took the buttons from the sweater and covered the bleach stain (it was the top button) then added the other two for balance.
This sits on my living room rocking chair. My mother rocked me in this when I was a baby.

And there you have it!

Thanks Evie for all your inspirational posts. I completed a wardrobe refashion!

Proverbs 31

NHP

He prepares me...

2010-01-27T12:19:00.001-08:00

It's so comforting to know that my God knows exactly how I work. He gently moves me along to where He wants me and often He prepares me through dreams.
This is my FAVORITE thing about God right now. I love how my dreams come to fruition. I love how God gave me a whole novel in a dream. (Which I shared in this post about one of my three New Years resolution's being to write a novel. Update on that- I have written 3 pages. That's a lot people. Probably about 4 hours or so.)
So back to being prepared through a dream... This dream was last week.
I had a dream that Adam was going on a mission trip to Haiti. And I saw it in full detail.
I woke up and way down deep in my spirit I felt joy over this dream. I thought about it a lot, but never mentioned it to Adam.
At church on Sunday our missions pastor comes up to the front and says they are hooking up with a clean water project and wanted to take a team of 8 people to Haiti. My heart jumps and I look at Adam and ask, "Do you want to go?" Considering I have never offered this invitation in the 8 years we have been married he shockingly said, "Yeah, maybe..."
So he went to the meeting and they made it clear that they were looking for people with medical backgrounds. There were over 50 people or so interested, but Adam still signed up for the trip.

We went home and together prayed about it. And again before we went to bed. Asking that if God wanted Adam to go on the trip, make it so, and if not, close the door. But we BOTH just KNEW he was going to go!
Adam got the call yesterday that he has been invited as one of the eight for the trip. The only non-medical person going besides the leader of the group. We were just in awe! I KNEW that Adam was going to be perfect for this trip. He is full of patience, endurance and has a servants heart to help the people of Haiti. I KNEW too, that God prepared me for this.
He will be gone for 7 days. The team will hike into Haiti, sleep in hammocks and we will possibly not have contact the whole time he is in country. Yes, this is pushing our family into places we have not been. The longest time period Adam and I have been without talking in 12 years is less 48 hours. And I have not been away from him for longer that 5 days. BUT I know this is straight from the Lord and I cannot wait to hear his stories and see all the pictures. I know this will change him, in the best kind of way, and I am SO PROUD of him for going!
"God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all." 1 John 1:5

NHP

light and heavy

2010-01-24T13:31:00.000-08:00

Lets start with something light, shall we?...
Started on a new project. I realize this picture is not the best, but you will get the idea. I have been saving my favorite baby clothes of Avi Joy's over the last three years and I have started on her baby clothes quilt. She and I have been cutting, ironing and piecing together the most precious keepsake gift from mama to daughter.

I was blessed to book 6 jobs for Christmas. Here are 3 of the pieces.
Last name, Gibson...
Baby name, Samuel...
Family Tree, Catalano...

Perfect For You Watercolors started eight years ago and my "style" has come a loooonnng way! In all cases my client tells me their desires. The name/design, frame color, exact size, these colors, touching verse, along with any other details. I do not advertise, I just let it ebb and flow and always enjoy when jobs come my way.

Time to share the heavy:

Here are some quotes and verses that are helping me though this tough season. Some from sermons, friends or from counseling. The main verses (not all listed here, its about 60 verses) I am calling it Fear Detox. I am about 75% through them. Some I just need to commit to memory and let them change me from the inside out. If you know that feeling, read on...

Most frequent quote from the Bible is “Do not be afraid, fear not.”
Faith or fear? Fret or lean? Worry or Trust? Worthless or Worthwhile?

We can lose focus of God and put all our focus on the “issue”.
Defeat the issue by doing your job. Loving God. Defeating it with His Word.

Not living in imagination, but whatever is true. (Phil 4)

He gives us Power through the Holy Spirit to Stand against temptation in the battle.

Starts in a thought, plant the seed, takes root becomes a stronghold.
Touching the hem of His garment. Bringing our issue to Jesus. Come to Him.

LIVING UNDER FEAR IS NOT LOVING GOD. PERFECT LOVE CASTS OUT FEAR. (John 4)

Why play at satan’s gates when we are a child of the King?

Its got to be Godward or its just downward.

Why is this allowed in my life?
TO CONFORM ME TO THE LIKENESS OF CHRIST JESUS.
Called: Progressive Santification
And it is painful- but He works ALL things… Romans 8

Hook up with the power source- stay in the vine! (John 15)

Look at this time in our life as a Stepping Stone and not a stumbling block.

Why do something? To overcome? NO, to please the Lord and be empowered to overcome by His Spirit.

All the things I have are in Him. Anything that tells me otherwise is a lie! (John 8)

Not in my abilities but in my dependence on the Lord.

Could make me into a beautiful squash in one season but He wants me as a mighty oak tree!

Darkness has no power over the light. It is overcome by the Light. (word study on Light)

Is That True? Than am I giving in to what is false or trusting my God?

“How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him, but if Baal is god, follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21

God wants the best for my children even more than I do!!!

And my favorite from today:
God always has an agenda for me when I look to Him. Its less of me and more of Him. It is destroying that which destroys me so that He can be elevated to His proper place. If you look to Him, you will become more like Him.

Have a wonderful week,

NHP

Menu...

2010-01-10T14:59:00.001-08:00

I love when I see friends who share recipes and menu ideas, so I thought I would give it a whirl.
We do not have a "set" grocery store time, as in we do not shop for groceries every other week, we just make a list of meals, buy everything, eat it all up, then shop again. It works for us.
It may not be the most organized system, but I like it and we usually only have to make small grocery runs for milk or fresh produce. This list does not include our drinks, which are usually grape, apple, o.j. (100% juice of course, and we are still in the half water phase) and milk. I also didn't include our fruit or vegetable list.

I make two lists.
One with everything I need to buy at the store, the looooong list.
One with the list of meals that we will make. I post it up and know what we have in the house that we can make to eat. I keep these lists in my recipe book and have several to look through if I want an easy month for meal ideas.

Breakfast: (We always try serve a fruit with breakfast. We use fresh, frozen, then canned as the month goes on.)
Egg and sausage casserole
Homemade banana muffins
Cranberry bread
Cereal
Yogurt with granola and fruit
Oatmeal
Egg sandwiches
Kashi Eggo's
Toast with p.b. and honey

Lunch:
Turkey sandwiches w/ avocado
Chicken Salad
Homemade honey spice pretzels
Roasted garlic and tomato spread
Morning Star's Black Bean Burgers (we love them)
Tuna salad
Cottage cheese
Mac n cheese
Leftovers from dinner

Dinner: (We always try to serve a veggie with dinner as well.)
Cheddar and scallion bread
Spaghetti
Artichoke dip
Almond chicken
Jambalaya
Ravioli
Sour cream cheese puffs
New Potato bake
While Chicken Chili
Bean Burritos
Sloppy Joes
BLT's
Monterey Chicken

Desserts:
Orange chip cookies
Raspberry bars
Date penwheels
Lemon cake delight
Nutella

Other menu items from last month:
Baked potato soup
Ruben's
Balsamic Pasta
Butterscotch cheesecake
Biscuits and gravy w/ eggs
Pizza

We usually use recipes from Taste of Homes magazine (which I LOVE), from allrecipes, or from that we have snatched from family and friends.

In between all these things there will be many snacks of nuts, kashi bars, and yes, even goldfish. One of my favorite things is Almond Butter. I love it on everything. Adam loves pickled okra.

We try to stick to the 75/25 rule of eating. 75% of the time we eat healthy, whole grain, fruits/veggies with every meal, lean meat (no red meat) and small portion sizes frequently throughout the day. Then the other 25% of the time we BLOW IT! Eat whatever we want and go to our favorite restaurants for fried foods and ice cream. Our two favorite places to go out to eat are Taco Buneo and Desi Wok. Party burritos and Indian chicken tikka masala are from God.

If you have favorite food websites or want to post your menu for the month, please leave a comment and let me check it out!

"But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil." Hebrews 5:14

NHP

Happy New Year

2010-01-08T12:03:00.000-08:00

Some quick thoughts on the New Year and resolutions!

I have several friends doing 365 projects. Writing and posting pictures each day of 2010. What I think is crazy about this is that I am going to KNOW these people better than some of my closest friends. These are all "blog-friends" and when you have them plugged into google reader, they pop up as to say, "Good morning, here was my day yesterday." When in reality I don't even know how my best friend, parents or sometimes even husbands day was yesterday! Weird. But I continue to check, right? A few of my favorites (not necessarily daily blogs):

For great musings and story telling I love Lawerish.

Family fun with Amy.

For ALL things Crafty.

Life in Vietnam.

And a host (but more could be added!) of other beautiful families that I so enjoy their lives.

My mom's theme: "Fit and Thin in Two Thousand Ten." I am convinced that I will see this slogan on TV very soon, by someone like Denise Austin. She coined other special catch phrases, such as, "If you don't squeeze it, no one else will."

Some friends are pressing themselves to do new things. Like the Daniel Fast, becoming vegetarian or training for a marathon.

And other general things I have heard this last week: becoming more balanced, saying NO more often and being more generous with our time, talent and treasure.

I will start off by saying that I have done resolutions every year. I went to look for my 7th grade journal where I wrote my first New Year's resolutions, but could only find back to 1998. I think those before that are in the attic and its just too cold for searching! But I remember that was the first year I heard about this type of thing. I pulled out a notebook, jumped on my bed and wrote ten things down to work on that year. I am sure it was things like, make up a dance to Salt n' Pepa or get a spiral perm.

This year was EASY. I am narrowing down on life and what I am passionate about.

1. Getting the novel in my head out on paper. I know this will not be completed this year, but it is going to start this year. I have several novels in my head, but one is on my mind the moment I wake up and throughout my dreams. I heard that out of every ten people who want to write a novel (or as Adam has been teasing me from American Idol auditions, a novella. Which is longer than a noveletta but shorter than a novel) only ONE actually writes the novel. I have decided this will be me.

2. Continuing to learn Vietnamese. I am going to start saving for the, gulp, very expensive Rosetta Stone. I do NOT want to stop lessons for three months in the summer and have the desire to keep exposing my brain (and ears) to the language. Along with this I would like a Vietnamese bible and some children's books.

3. Planting a garden. Yes, in my backyard there will be fruit and veggies. I want to plant, tend, grow and eat what God makes. I am SO excited and know absolutely nothing about how to start, but the passion is there so I am going to do it. I also would like to can. So my grandmother can be expecting a call from me when tomatoes are coming out the wazoo.

Well, that is it.

I could go on and on about adoption and other desires. OR that I need to continuing to work on freedom from fears and anxiety. Or making sure I am a great wife and mom who always has dinner on the table and a clean kitchen... but those things are ever evolving and never ending areas. The Lord has His own areas that He prunes and to Him I am beyond thankful that what does not bear fruit in my life is pruned. I want a life to glorify Him first and foremost. Without His guidance, I am truly nothing.

The word of the year will be Faithful.

The scripture of the year will be Romans 8:28:

"And we KNOW that in ALL things (good, bad and otherwise) God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

Quote of the year: God does not call the equipped, He equips the called.

Have a wonderful 2010,

Natasha

Send off to Africa

2009-12-19T18:43:00.000-08:00

I had the greatest college experience and it is mostly due to my wonderful roommates. We lived together for 2 years in the dorms then 2 years in an apt. They met in high school and we all met the first week of college. We were all 18 years old.

We had a couple other gals that lived with us for a while, but we three were a cord that has not broken. We have watched each other grow up in our faith, cry over break-ups, share our deepest hurts without condemnation and truly rejoice in blessings.
Here we are all youthful looking- atop of bad haircuts, bushy eyebrows, outdated clothes and as you can tell from Shannon on the right- she didn't learn how to smile in a picture until like yesterday. But that is just one of her quirks that we like.
The girls came over this weekend along with their husbands and children. We celebrated our last meal together as the Jones' are heading off to Africa for two years. (I also just noticed we are in the same order as the pic above.) Vanessa is in the middle and their family has committed their lives to God's service and to His people in other countries.
Kyle (top right) is a doctor and will be working at a hospital in Kenya. Vanessa and their 3 boys (all under four) will be doing school at home and ministering to the women of the village.
They also came bearing gifts...
They are all from Amani Ya Juu. All the items on their site are handmade by African women who are in need. The words Amani Ya Juu in Swahili means, "higher peace," which they are learning comes from the Lord. The women made our family an angel, a purse and a kickball. The ball is made of grain sacks from relief agencies. The refugee's in Kakuma make everything from curtains to roofing from these sacks.

We had a wonderful time eating delicious food, letting the kids play and spending time in prayer. Their family has been attacked in many ways, especially in forms of sicknesses, and it was time the enemy knew they have a whole army behind them sending them off to Africa. I look forward to the letters sharing how Kyle was able to pray for someones healing and they were healed and how Vanessa's househelper notices this home is just a little bit "different" because the Lord lives there... you will be missed, but are exactly where you are supposed to be!

RANDOM LANGUAGE THOUGHTS:
We talked about learning Swahili in Africa and I wanted to share a statistic I heard:
To become fluent in a foreign language requires 800 hours of conversation. OH My Word.

As you know we started Vietnamese lessons in August. I REALLY LOVE learning the language and can tell that I am actually learning something. I can say short sentences (like my name is..., hello friend or thank you very much), I know individual vocab, numbers and introductions.
My favorite website for basic instruction is everydayviet. Donna's tones are awesome and you can actually hear the slight tonal differences when she teaches! And of course we love our teachers at language school. We would not be where we are today without their kindness, patience and one-on-one instruction.
I did have my first dream in Vietnamese. I was buying a purse at the market in HCMC and I started talking to her in Vietnamese. "How much Dong is this purse Miss?" I woke up happy!
My next thing to figure out is how to write on our computer in Vietnamese. Like with the accents an everything. I can go to a language converter and do it word by word, then paste it, but yuck! Adam says they have Vietnamese keyboards. I don't know, I want to be able to type... we will see.
Mrs. Anna, Avi Joy's Vietnamese teacher, sent us a Christmas card this year. I loved what it said... "Wishing you a beautiful Christmas season. May your New Year be showered with blessings and steps closer to God's dream for you." Is that NOT precious!

"I will praise You, O Lord, among the nations; I will sing of You among the peoples." Psalm 57:9

Natasha

Spreading a little Christmas cheer...

2009-12-11T13:12:00.000-08:00

Its was Christmas morning... in the early tween years.
I combed my Sun-In'ed hair, got dressed and went into the living room to open all my Christmas presents. Little did I know that it would be the BEST Christmas ever!
This was the year I LOVED every single gift I received...

I put on my new 1, 2, 3 sweater from my aunt and uncle.
My new watch-ring and locket necklace.
Put on my gold, black and white pearl dangle earrings.
Painted my nails with my new Streetwalker Red nailpolish.
Opened my new Estee Lauder make-up kit (which my grandma always got me) and bathed myself in Hot Pink Porsche lipstick and Sunset blush.
I posed next to my frilly lamp and my see through neon colored phone (remember those?)

I am sure I had to make sure that my bangs were just right, my non-plucked eyebrows were not hanging in my eyeballs and everything looked perfect for my Christmas night photo showing off all my new gifts!

Oh yes it was a grand Christmas.
NHP

Advent Adventures Part Hai (2 in Vietnamese)

2009-12-03T12:01:00.000-08:00

Please see previous post for Days 1-10.
I also have a friend who posted about her Advent box for 2009 and she posted her complete 25 day Advent from 2008 (it is SO awesome- check it out!)

We mostly use Avi Joy's "Read with Me Bible" for these stories. They have great pictures and the amount of text is age appropriate.

So on with the show:

Day 11. Heart: Psalm 119:11. I have hidden Your Word in my heart.
12. Nail: Unless the Lord builds the house- Psalm 127:1. Then build and decorate a gingerbread house. (Without nails of course... you may have thought it was for Jesus's hands- we are not ready for that yet!)
13. Candy: Psalm 34:8. "Taste and see that the Lord is good. Blessed is the man who trusts in Him."
14. Map: Mark 16:15. "Go into all the world and preach the good news."
15. Bar of soap: Having a clean heart. Psalm 24:4-5 (she loves taking baths with actual bar-soap, so she will get to use it next bathtime.)
16. Key: Paul and Silas locked in prison and then released. Acts 13 and 16
17. Cotton ball: Psalm 100:3. We are like sheep.
18. Ring: Isaac and Rebekah get married. Genesis 24.
19. Torn piece of paper: Ecc 3. A time for everything. It is torn and she will get to mend it with tape.
20. Net: Matt 4. Called to be fishers of men. (I am using an avocado net)
21. Two silver coins: The good Samaritan gives 2 coins, Luke 10.
22. Little wash cloth: Jesus washes his disciples feet. John 13
23. Empty: the tomb is empty, so nothing will be inside. Matthew 28.
24. Sugar packet: Bake a cake for Jesus.
25. Star: The star of Bethlehem. Matthew/Luke's story of Jesus' birth on Christmas morning and we might even let them eat cake for breakfast- ahhhhhhh!

Again, hope these ideas spur you on in your parenting. I know many of my ideas come from watching and listening to others- the rest come straight from God!

Natasha
P.S. Our Advent box came from Target. I searched many places last year for the right one. Target had the most selection, so many beautiful ones. I leave mine up year round- I love it.

Advent Adventures...

2009-12-01T17:33:00.000-08:00

We are counting down our Advent box this year. We started tonight, December 1st with the first door... Twenty five days until Christ's birth, Christmas Day.
I have seen this done by my friends in many ways...
Some put treats inside.
Some teach scriptures.
Some give their kiddos missions (like bake cookies and give to neighbors)

As I see it there really is no wrong or right in starting an Advent tradition. The goal is to focus more on Christ for Christmas other than shopping and Santa.

My goal (because I am cheap) was to find things around the house for free and tag them along with a story.

I have come up with half and will post the rest in a few days.
I hope you can take this and run with it!

1. Band-aid: Jesus is our healer. Read Jesus heals the 10 lepers in Luke ch. 17 (p.s. this went over really well since she got to put her band-aid on before bed!)
2. Pecan nut: God taking care of animals. Matthew 10 & we have a book with kids thanking God for nuts to feed the animals. (Then she will get to eat the pecan)
3. Leaf: Noah's ark. Dove went out and brought back the olive branch, new life.
4. Butterfly: Read story Hermie and Wormie. Transformation, we are like the caterpillar to the butterfly. (we have a butterfly hair clip)
5. Light bulb: God made the light/dark in Genesis and Jesus is the light of the world.
6. Rock: David and Goliath (her favorite story right now)
7. Hay: Jesus born in a manger. Story of His birth in Luke.
8. Cup: the wedding feast where Jesus turns water into wine for His first miracle.
9. Bread: Give us today our daily bread. Prayer in Matt 15.
10. Q-tip: Sit and listen to Jesus. Mary and Martha with Jesus in Luke 10.

Please share your traditions,
Natasha

construction.

2009-11-14T17:36:00.000-08:00

My life has been under some serious construction. Isn't it just when we think we have mastered an area of our lives it comes back again to bite us where it hurts???

The road I live on is under serious construction. It is being widened from 2 to 4 lanes. God has really been speaking to me about this in relation to my life.
Construction:
1. Takes a lot of workers to accomplish this change
2. Lots of detours
3. The look changes daily
4. Slow signs posted
5. Stop, Bump, drop off signs everywhere
6. New speed limit
7. Double the fines if you go too fast
8. Bull-dozers, jack hammers and shovels required
9. New power lines are going up
10. Traffic is backed-up

IS THIS NOT LIKE US?? This has SO been ME!!! I cannot do it alone. I need God, my husband, family and friends to accomplish changes. It looks different daily and I am constantly having to slow down, stop and take detours to healing. I have to use my "tools" to make the changes. I could GO ON... This construction has been applicable to my life.

Recently on a bad night my hubby said: "You are having a runners stitch. Push through."
OH how I needed this thought. I have been having those a lot. I want to quit or cower in fear. BUT I must press on past the stitch.
In Romans 7 Paul talks about for what he wants to do, he does not do, and what he hates he does. YUCK. I understand this and choose to trust God and freedom.

Other things helping me...
Putting on the armor of God and letting God fight for me.
Going to war, "Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be terrified or give way to panic before them. For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory."

Knowing He is faithful (Chapman's song You Are Faithful is amazing!)
And the quote by Eleanor Roosevelt, "You must do the thing you think you cannot do."

Not perfect. Stop striving. Just rest. He provides a way.
NHP
perrymanadoption

So You Think You Can...

2009-11-05T12:15:00.000-08:00

...DANCE!
My cousin Jansen and her boyfriend Brian, Adam and I all have birthdays within 3 weeks of one another. Three of us in the same week! Well us girls wanted to celebrate with going to So You Think You Can Dance. While all my friends were out seeing Wicked or attending the U2 concert, we were out with the other tweens watching the best dancing and choreography ever!

So you think you can?? YES WE DO!
Here are some of our favorite things from the evening.
Kupono's plug for the SYTYCD Workout DVD. So funny I cried. Because the next day was Halloween they all came out in costume as well. Jeanine sucking her thumb totally got me.
Adam's favorite Philip doing his solo. My favorite Janette. I LOVE the whole group water dance. Super hot.
Everyone gave Brandon a standing O for his solo. Amazing.
The closing of the show. It was a super time and our seats were awesome.
We stayed after to take pictures with the top 12 dancers. Kupono is Jansen's other boyfriend so she was thrilled to give him a kiss. Just kidding, she wishes.
I will say they were all so beautiful in person, but truly Jeanine surpassed them all. She was BEAUTIFUL beyond words really.
With Philip...
She took over 200 pics inside and I took tons after... I don't want to completely bore you with all of them. The other dances that stood out for me were The Ballywood number, The Butt Dance and The Disco- if you are a fan of the show you will know all these. We so love Mia, Wade and Sonya. They are our favorite choreographers.
Happy Birthday to us!
Natasha

THIRTYONE

2009-10-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

I am 31 today!
This has been an AWESOME birthday. I think usually birthday's are hit or miss for me depending on my expectations... this year was a BIG HIT!!!
My morning started off with my hubby helping me get the kids ready for the day.
THEN... my mom came over and CLEANED the WHOLE house spotless! Whoo Hoo!
Then I went out and met my precious girlfriend for a birthday lunch at Te Kei's.
After the kids woke up from their naps the weather was perfect! We played in the backyard and cleaned up the backporch.
When Adam came home from work he told me that we were going out to dinner. Two times out in one day! He gave me a few options... I chose Villa Ravenna in the Farm Shopping Center- YUMMO and great ambiance. Here is our birthday self-pic.
He got some smooches for my presents: A replacement c.d. of Memories of a Geisha- one of my favorites that broke, Peony in Love by Lisa See- an author I love and a giftcard for a massage. Adam's parents and my dad gave some cash for cloths and such. I mean was I spoiled or what- a goooooooood birthday!
There was a huge mirror in the waiting area. We took all kinds of funny and silly pictures. This one made us laugh SO hard. Can you see why???
Check out Adam's HORNS! Here we are laughing at his little devil self.
My mom's birthday is in 2 days and she asked for some earrings. I LOVE making earrings (one of many things I have learned from the Perryman family) so I got to work. Fifteen earrings later her gift was complete! I wrapped a cereal box with pretty paper and cut slits for the earrings to slide through- Love you mommy!
Lots has changed since I was 30. It is amazing how much can change in such a short amount of time. Here are just a few...

We traveled to Vietnam and now have a son.
Started a US domestic process for more kiddos.
Gained friends and lost friends.
More serious about the Lord.
Intentional about working on my behaviors.

Oh man, I could seriously flood a boring list here.
But most of all I am very grateful for LIFE. That I am healthy, loved and whole. God shows me everyday that I cannot *cannot* do anything, a.n.y.t.h.i.n.g, without HIM. If you think you can, you amaze me, but I cannot. I cannot think, parent, drive, fly, be still, be brave, love or be at peace without my Jesus.

"For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their Shepherd; He will lead them to springs of living water." Revelation 7:17

A BLOG AWARD!

2009-10-16T13:44:00.000-07:00

A BLOG AWARD!

1. Recognize who sent the award to you and add a link to their page
2. Tell 10 things about yourself
3. Award fellow bloggers

Amanda and I have known each other for over 10 years now. She has a precious family and is an amazing woman. It is my honor to call her my friend. Thank you for the award!

1. I have lots of weird pet peeves, most no one knows. Here is one: Like why some mom’s do not use the diaper to wipe some of the poop off their baby’s bottom before they use wipes? I don’t get that? Why use 100 wipes really…

2. I used to be VERY regimented in the shower. First do this, then this, then that. Always the same. Then I lived with a roommate who told me she took a different shower every day. Now I do too- its so liberating. Wild- I know.

3. I am constantly working on things. I work on things on the outside… like paintings, sewing, crafts with my kids, etc and working on things on the inside like anxiety, anger, irritability and bitterness on the inside every day.

4. I love every color, I mean LOVE, like some colors make me want to scream with joy. But I rarely like purple. I do not own any purple item in my home or wardrobe. And guess what, my daughters favorite color right now is purple.

5. I only liked cooking after a few years of marriage. Adam loves to cook, along with every member of his family, now I think it is the best gift God ever created. A good meal cannot, cannot be beat!

6. I love being a multi-cultural family. I have heard the WORST comments and yet have had the most beautiful comments from strangers, family and friends. I truly think that adoption is a special gift and I cannot believe that our family was chosen to experience its awesomeness.

7. This is my third year being a stay at home mom. I have days I LOVE it. I just look at my kids and go crazy for them. But when they are having a bad day… uhhh, I dream of being elsewhere. Badmommy!

8. I am rarely complimented on my appearance. If I am complimented it is always my eyebrows. I have been stopped many times over by strangers asking me how I do them. Other than that it is usually a comment about my name or something I have made.

9. Adam and I have everything in common and yet are SOOO completely different. Don’t know how it works sometimes but God knew the man for me. Although I will say we did not come in the “package” either of us ever expected for a future spouse. (Looks, job, personality)

10. I have LOTS of dreams. Both at night and those I want to accomplish. God speaks to me through my dreams, its really amazing when things foretold come to pass. And I have a list of dreams I would like to see happen someday, to name a few: live in Vietnam, write a book, speak to 1,000’s of women, raise kids to love Jesus, see the blind set free and have a pixy short blonde haircut.

Well that is off the top of my head. I am sure I could actually sit and think about this for awhile, but there is no time to stop and think! Just write and publish! 

As for others: Hummm. I actually check a lot of blogs so this is hard. I'll tell you what: If you check my blog, you get an award!
Leave me a comment and I will check up on 10 fun things about you.

Natasha

My Week In Prose

2009-10-09T16:53:00.000-07:00

Monday we pampered a precious friend
Along with her 4 day old baby the stork just flew in
Then lunch with a girlfriend talking about adoption
We both agree it is the greatest option

Tuesday little girl was off to school
Where she is praised for following the golden rule
I went off to make homemade baklava
With my sweet friend named Talksalotta

Oh by Wed we were all emotional and down
Family time was spent playing hookie around town
Life can be hard when we spend no time on our knees
Oh my word my dog has FLEES

Thursday Parents As Teachers stopped by
Talking discipline, games and milestones oh my
Then I spent the afternoon cutting and sewing
Their Halloween costumes will be quite a showing

Friday was a Wal-Mart trip
I wanted to beat the cart guy with a whip
Then off to dance, the post office and making dinner
The semi-homemade pizza was a super winner

Saturday is our final DHS adoption training
The gift of a new child we will be gaining
So thankful for our faithful babysitter
No, I have yet to use the program twitter

Sunday no doubt church will be a blessin
Lunch, naps and our Vietnamese lesson
A family birthday party we will be attending
New mercies for the next week God will be lending

Looking forward to some craft updates!
Have a great weekend,

Natasha

Can I put your baby in a basket??

2009-09-27T13:10:00.000-07:00

You gotta love a friend where you can say...
"Ummm... Can I put your week old baby in a basket? Outside? In a pretty blanket? And take her picture? You know this would be fun for me, pleeeasssee?"

Introducing my girlfriends first kiddo, Payton. She was a perfect subject. This was my first newborn photo shoot and I hope to do more... precious!!!

Then Esau looked up and saw the women and children. "Who are these with you?" he asked. Jacob answered, "They are the children God has graciously given your servant." Genesis 33:5

Payton, you are a gift from God!

Natasha
perrymanadoption

Project updates...

2009-09-20T13:31:00.000-07:00

Project update:
Finished all the sewing for the quilt- it is completely pieced together. I sent it off with batting and a sheet to be quilted together. Looking forward to our new kiddos handmade quilt!

Next up:
1. Making a SEMO license plate for my dad
2. Tweaking and painting/distressing the new twin bed
3. Starting on a small qulit for Avi Joy, it will be made out of her baby clothes.

I had the opportunity to do two watercolors this week. Both clients were giving them as baby gifts.
Baby Jaxsen Alexis...
Baby Sadie...
NHP kitchen tip. (I am sure many have tried this, but it was a new idea in my mind and it worked out great!)
Our family tries to stay away from partially hydrogenated oils and high fructose sugar (at least 75% of the time anyway). We love our desserts and fast food, so we are not going for perfection here.
I have used/made several types of crusts, but they either didn't taste good or I could not get over the ingredients.
So... *idea*
When making your favorite Chicken Pot Pie- purchase two healthy deep dish pie crusts (mine come two in a pack) and flip one over. Bake as normal.
Turned out perfect! Yum!

VIETNAMESE LESSONS:
I read the most awesome article. Loved every word. Especially the part about their language. The people at our classes even disagree about how things are said because they are all from different regions.

Today was the churches/language school's 20th year celebration. All in Vietnamese, lots of games and food. They had not met Adam or Nehemiah yet, so that was fun. In the end (after lots of nerves and prayer) we sat down to eat (delicious authentic VN food, my first time to love the fish sauce) and so many people came over to talk to us and hear our story.

Our family lives by the motto... as a multi-cultural family you have to meet people from other cultures on purpose! It is hard and intimidating, but completely and totally worth it. I am falling for these people.
We went to lessons last week and they had asked the congregation if anyone would want to give us personal VN lessons. A beautiful woman named Kim Ahn offered to help us. Her sisters both adopted internationally. One from VN and the other from China. We had lots of laughs with our tones!

Have a beautiful week,
Natasha
perrymanadoption

"One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard: that You, O God, are strong, and that You, O Lord, are loving." Psalm 62:11-12

Free Craft Friday with Mrs. P

2009-09-10T14:52:00.000-07:00

Free Craft Friday with Mrs. P.... MAGIC BAGGIES
* A lesson in color mixing *

Again: FREE & EASY
(barring you have these things lying around your house of course)
SUPPLIES:
Ziplock Baggies
Foam Shaving Cream
Tape
Food Coloring
Markers

STEP 1:
Squirt shaving cream into baggie.
STEP 2:
Drop two different food coloring drops into the baggie.
Let out some of the air and seal the baggie with tape.
Write with colored marker on the tape which two colors (for your non-readers)
Put an = sign (Leave it blank for a real surprise)
Mix the baggie and see the results.
STEP 3:
Repeat with different colors
Examples:
Blue + Red = Purple
Red + Yellow = Orange
Blue + Yellow = Green
EXTRA FUN:
Have your kiddo tell you their favorite color...
Write their name on the back...

Enjoy,
Natasha

Thinking of You Quilt

2009-09-06T13:54:00.000-07:00

I started a "Thinking of You Quilt" for our next kiddo. She/he has been on my mind as we are starting our 35 hours of required classes next week. As I am thinking and praying about our next addition, I wanted something to make for her bedroom. I choose a girl quilt. If it is a boy, I will make a boy one and give this one to my daughter- I think about her a lot too.

I have never quilted, but my mom can sew just about anything and I am convinced I have some of this too- its just lying dormant.
Several years ago for my birthday my dad called and said, "I want to get you a sewing machine for your birthday, because I think you would be really great at sewing!"
I love this about my dad... always encouraging my gifts.

After that, I sewed curtains and a few other things, but the patterns back then were just not as, "ooh-la-la" as they are now.
I CANNOT get over the beauty of the patterns these days. I have found a few local places to buy fabric and over the last month or so have been collecting a few for the "thinking of you quilt."

I chose seven fabrics for the quilt... (I wanted to buy a 100 more, so if you would like to send me some $$ to buy more fabrics, be my guest!)

My version of quilting:
Step one- buy fabric, draw out the design and cut all the pieces

Step 2- layout the design, the kids can watch
Step 3- sew it (have not started on this yet, but it's coming soon)

In other news, I heard the best female speaker of my life... Christine Caine from Hillsong in Australia.
I have heard many speakers, but Christine Caine was totally and completely on fire for Jesus! To say she was amazing is an understatement. And blogs too.
Hear both her messages!!! (week 1 and 2) WOW!

Hungry? Here is a yummy and quick meal.
My mom introduced me to Oroweat Sandwich thins. SO yummy. She uses them for everything from burgers to sandwiches.
I made little pizza's with them, they were perfect!
Toast bread
Cover in sauce-Our favorite marinara sauce- Emeril's or Newman's Own
Mozz cheese
Your favorite toppings
Bake 350 for 15 minutes

Word of the week- SURRENDER!

Happy Sum Hop Day to my daughter!
Natasha

Free Craft Friday with Mrs. P

2009-08-28T07:46:00.001-07:00

I am an art teacher by trade and love to inspire others to paint and make crafts with their kiddos. I think it is SO important to let them create. Just as a parent into sports would think it is important for their kids to be on a softball team... all parents are created with gifts we pass on to our kiddos. This is my gift. I know I love to watch (and be inspired) by how other families do life so I hope you can be encouraged to create with your kiddo. For free!

FREE CRAFT FRIDAY with Mrs. P...
The Caterpillar
Supplies (ALL from around the house)
An old sock- who doesn't have one of those without a mate
4 wal-mart sacks
4 paper towels
hot glue gun (or needle/thread)
2 buttons
Thread (dental floss, pipe cleaners, yarn, anything)
Put the paper towel into the sack.
Make the sack into a ball and stuff it inside the sock.
Tie it up with thread
Repeat all 4 times. Glue (or sew) the end closed.
Hot glue (or sew) two buttons as eyes.
We added pipe cleaners as the antennae.
Don't have pipe cleaners. Draw/paint them on the sock.
We wrapped some around the body just for fun.
And no they do not have legs. But you could paint them on.
If you would like to add 1,000 legs be my guest and let me know what you used.
Important: Let your child NAME their caterpillar!
Her choice: Kissy Ma-nonda

Have a wonderful weekend!
Natasha

Do you like my fanny pack?

2009-08-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

My mom, Avi Joy and I started Vietnamese lessons this weekend. Talk about...

WE.WERE.THE.ONLY.WHITE.PEOPLE.THERE! It is not often that we find ourselves standing out in a crowd, but in this case, we walked into a Vietnamese language school (about 200 people) and we're definitely noticed!
When I googled "standing out in a crowd" something else came up.
Yes, fanny pack's too will get you noticed. (over a speedo with your shirt rolled up of course)
So we walk in, fully Caucasian, with fanny packs on and a Vietnamese child in our arms. I had major butterflies and felt really nervous. We ended up talking with the language school director, Hai, and he was super nice. While talking with him, several more people came and welcomed us and encouraged us about starting lessons. We were SO thankful for their hospitality.
Avi Joy will be in the 3-5 age class learning ABC's, colors and numbers.
My mom and I will be in the "Advanced 3rd grade class." I LOVE it. Two adults with 8 years olds. Hey, if you want to learn and be apart of a new culture, you have to do uncomfortable things. Nonetheless, we are pumped about learning Vietnamese!!!

On an artistic note my Vietmom-blog-friend posted this and it peeked my interest...

Any opportunity to serve kiddos with art always sounds like a great idea to me... so, I entered a painted step stool for the silent auction.
I painted it red with flower design on one side and a scripture on the other side. Fully distressed it and aged with paint. I love the little mail handle pulls on the sides, so cute.
"Children are a gift from the Lord. They are a reward from Him." Psalm 127:3

A little sip of my life...
Natasha

2009-08-09T12:43:00.000-07:00

One of the most awesome things in life is a divine appointment. Its when you meet someone or something happens that you know is not just chance, it is a divinely planned moment from God.
I have had more this summer than in the last 10 years combined!

I have already shared one, well here are two more... (and there are others, written down in a journal, so I don't forget His goodness.)

MEETING OANH...
While the kids and I were walking in our neighborhood park an Asian lady jogged passed us. I had that voice/feeling/prompting thing that happens- “Ask her ethnicity…” I did not want too, but there it was again- pushing- DO IT.
So I asked her.
She said, "Oh I am Vietnamese."

I introduced our family and we became instant friends.
We had everything in common. We both have a boy and girl, our girls are 2 weeks apart in age. We both graduated from NSU, she has the same degree as Adam, accounting. We have both lived in our neighborhood for 8 years and both gone to beauty school. We are passionate for Vietnam and we both wanted to share our Vietnamese/English lessons with a friend.

After talking for a while she invited us over to her house. We spent about about 30 minutes there then she came over to my house and we hung out a little more...
We could have talked the afternoon away, but long story short, it was a divine appointment. And I so look forward to practicing my Vietnamese bài học with her.

MEETING NIKKI...
All families built through adoption have to face many inappropriate statements or questions that we have to answer. I have shared a few moments before, one here, and we know it goes hand in hand with how our family is built- but that does not always make it easy.
I am REJOICING today because this meeting could not have been further from one of "those" moments, it was rather a breath of fresh air, a beautiful divine appointment!

It goes like this:
We pull up to Lowes to buy a screen for our backdoor as to stop the millions of flies from coming in the house. (We have new outdoor toys- so fun, but the flies must stop.)
I get out, grab Nehemiah and I hear...
"You are a lucky mommy," from behind me.
I turn around and a lady in the row in front of us has her window rolled down with a big smile.
I say, "Are you a lucky mom too?"
She says "Yes (with tears) four times over. Our children are all from Mexico."
From there our families go into Lowes and had The Best conversation.
Our families are so much alike and our passions were in line.
It will be exciting to see where this leads, we are looking forward to a playdate with them.

THANK YOU LORD FOR YOUR DIVINE APPOINTMENTS.
"Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders You have done. The things You planned for us no one can recount to You; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare." Psalm 40:5

NHP

Surprise!

2009-08-04T15:51:00.000-07:00

I am never surprised.
But I was yesterday and loved it.
(I so love being surprised but I tend to catch on to unusual clues.)

Here is what happened...
To start, Adam never comes home for lunch. But he walked in the door at noon (I didn't even hear the garage be/c the dryer was running) with flowers and a new book.
I have been wanting Shanghai Girls be/c I love the author Lisa See, but am too cheap to buy a new book!
Adam has a 'no flowers' rule. I think they became an easy and somewhat unthoughtful gift so they were ixnayed a very long time ago.
Arranging flowers is part of the fun of getting flowers for me.
But DO NOT ask Third Street Flowers in Jenks. I wanted a job there in high school arranging flowers. They waved me off like a fly on their prize winning pie.
I TRIED to tell them I was really creative and a hard worker. They would have none of it. SO now I enjoy arranging flowers even more- HA!

So he walks in and I was truly shocked. Hubby home for lunch, with flowers for me to arrange, with a new book, on our 8th anniversary.
I made myself a Faux Sunrise (o.j. + Grenadine over crushed ice, w/ or w/o Sprite, OMW) as a treat- to you know, thoroughly enjoy my day.

I'm looking forward to jumping into Shanghai Girls. If you have not read Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See, DO IT. So great.

RECIPE TIME:
I threw four things together and it was the best meal ever. Just had to share...
(I realize this pic is not Taste of Homes quality, sorry!)

1 jar Bertolli Organic- olive oil, basil and garlic flavor
1 can artichoke, squeezed and cut up
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
3 chicken breasts cut cup
MIX, BAKE covered with foil, at 350 for almost an hour.
YUMMY!

Yes, you could serve it over pasta or whatever you like. I served it with our squash bake.

Take squash, wash and cut thin
Melt butter and mix with olive oil- both amounts to your liking
Toss together
Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning
Bake covered with foil, also at 350 for almost an hour

They were done at the same time and the best throw together meal ever.
Here is one more just for fun.
My girlfriend Amanda's most requested dish.

"Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him." Psalm 34:8
Natasha
perrymanadoption

Anniversary- 8 years

2009-08-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

We became friends in January 1998.

My girlfriend and I wanted to play a prank on her crush so we asked a guy who lived on his floor to check us in. We ran into his room to reek havoc in his closets. When we opened the closet these two guys jumped out and shot us with waterguns. The check-in guy had snitched on us.

I saw the closet guy next day and said, "Hey, you're the guy. From yesterday. Who shot me? Aren't you?" He said he was. His name was Adam.

We became friends. Not friends that liked each other, just friends, in a big group of friends. It remained that way until Sept 1999. I started to like him first (his character hooked me) and apparently turned on the charm. He asked me straight- "Do you like me?" I told him I did but he said, "We just need to stay friends." : (

That only lasted a month before he came to me and asked if I would like to start dating him.
Our first date in October 1999.

We dated until Feb 2001. Then we got engaged. Do we not look SO young?!
Our rehearsal dinner.
Married on August 4, 2001. It was also the 50th anniversary of Adam's grandparents!
We have both been through so much in these 10 years. We bought a house, we were both laid off, I gained and lost 40 lbs., Adam was diagnosed with "idiopathic nocturnal angioedema", we processed 2 adoptions in four years, lost and gained friends, I went through counseling, we both turned 30 and most importantly we have a love that far surpasses most!
Today, our 8th anniversary and many more to come!
My favorite anniversary present was taking bridal portraits! My mom (who has a spa w/ spray tanning) needed a fair-skinned bride to take before and after pictures. She tried to book other brides but no one had their dress ready, were really white or had a good camera.

It was exciting to be the one who was able to take the pictures for her brochure. I did not have bridal portraits taken so it was a real treat. AND Adam was the one to take all the pictures. On our anniversary week!

She will be using the before and after pictures at her booth at the Tulsa Wedding Show. Here are a few of the thousands we took. (these are not the ones she choose... but you can still see the difference.)

BEFORE (this was the rehearsal dinner dress)

Fair skin...
AFTER
I went to the beach and got some "sun" in my wedding dress.
Even upclose it looked very natural!
I asked Adam what scripture he would like to put for anniversary post. He said, Proverbs 5:19. I had a good laugh. And told him to pick another one. Just another reason I think he is funny.
"Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." Prov 31:30

Natasha
perrymanadoption

Pour Moi { for me }

2009-07-12T13:10:00.000-07:00

As I am always completing projects for others, it actually feels odd to be working on one for myself. The hard part comes when I am not handed a "list" of what the client wants. Usually my client says, "I want it red, with brown stripes, butterflies flying, with the word Joanna in the middle, very girly," or something to that effect. Some are DETAILED and some are just DO WHATEVER you want, but oh, but here is what I like...
So when I got a creative wave a few weeks ago, it was hard to get started as I needed to decide what did I want? WEIRD, but it was a fun challenge.
I decided to paint the white step stool in the kids bathroom. Here is the rundown of the project.
STEP 1- Sand and double coat, I mixed a turquoise green.
STEP 2- Adding bubbles, red trim and a box
STEP 3- double coat everything, add a scripture, feet print and old faucet tops
STEP 4- Splatter with black, distress the edges and add a top coat
UPCLOSE DETAILS
The Wash & Dry between the Hot and Cold old faucets
Bubbles above the little bird on a tree
Baby feet print. You make these with the side of your hand and use your fingerprints for the toes. If you have not done with with your kiddos, its always a hit. Avi Joy steps up on them when getting to the counter, cute.
Add scripture. I chose, "'Heave is My throne & the earth is My footstool, what kind of house will you build for Me?' Says the Lord." Acts 7:49
View of the side. I was pleased with the color, splatter and distressed combo.
Complete and now in the bathroom. Avi Joy is brushing her teeth on her new stool!
Painting pour moi,
Natasha
perrymanadoption

What a difference a shirt makes...

2009-07-07T18:37:00.000-07:00

I was having one of those days when I just could not decide what to wear. (Tag it along with the excess eating, irritability & bloating and you can get the picture.) After several shirts I decided on my Hanoi tee that we bought at the Propaganda Art Shop in Vietnam.

We all head out the door to take Nehemiah to his Dr.'s check up and as I walk up to the counter there is a guy working on the computer.
He asks me, "Have you been to Vietnam?"
I say, "Yes, twice... have you?"
He says, "Yes, twice."
I am in total shock.
Everyone knows this never happens.
I became ecstatic and full of questions.
Come to find out there is a local church that has started taking 2 trips a year to VN to do some work.
He casually says, "Yeah my wife wants to move there. And she is serious."
Adam and I get a big laugh out of this : )
We talk all about what cities we visited and how it is hard to just up and move because all the "details" seem overwhelming. (job, house, school)

AND the funny thing was when I asked the guy his name, he told me, but tagged on, "Oh and I actually don't work here, I was just called in from my company for tech support. I am finished and need to get going." I MEAN WOW.

It was a precious reminder from the Lord that He knows my heart. He knows what makes it sing. We pray for open doors daily to connect us and our children to Vietnam and here was an answered prayer.

Needless to say, I called the churches m-pastor when I got home and we are hoping to go someday - or help send.

I know most families integrate their children's heritage to some extent. Some way more than others. For us, its just a love for our children and their birthland that cannot be separated.

We have hooked up with one of the local VN churches and on August 23rd are starting Vietnamese lessons! Avi Joy, my mom and I will be attending. How awesome is it that my mom wants to join us, The Amazing NanNa!

"And so I will show My greatness and My holiness, and I will make Myself known in the sight of many nations. Then they will know that I am the Lord." Ezekiel 38:23

Wishin I was Sippin some Vietnamese coffee (with condensed milk)
Natasha
perrymanadoption

2009-06-29T08:22:00.000-07:00

Today I took my son to have a "little procedure" as we are calling it. I had a beautiful time caring for him and in one moment my heart overflowed...

As he was waking up from anesthesia he started to cry. I picked him up to comfort him and gave him a bottle. He fell asleep in my arms only to go through bouts of flailing, screaming and sleeping again.

As I kept holding him, all of a sudden a song burst out of my mouth.
(Now I do love to sing, I sing all the time. I am not good at it, but I like too.) Each of my kiddos has a song I made up just for them.
When I was singing to Nehemiah's he was so relaxed. He smiled and gazed at me, babbled and rested. But when I stopped, he was fussy.

Then the holy moment came.
God planted revelation in my heart by reminding me of this verse.
"The Lord your God is with you,
He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing."
Zephaniah 3:17

Then the tears.

To think. I am picked up, comforted, given something to drink, rocked, patted and ultmately sang too. All this so that I will smile, gaze, babble and rest in Him.

OH LORD, you are so good. What would I do without believing that my God comforts in this way.
If you have not experienced this kind of comfort. Run to Jesus. "Come near to God and He will come near to you." James 4:8

We had our 5th To Be Free Women's Ministry this weekend!
The speakers did an awesome job and I know seeds of freedom were planted in every heart.
Pictured with Bernadette and April, co-leaders in the ministry.

Sippin QT half hot chocolate/ half decaf with flavor. Try it!
Natasha
perrymanadoption

Its gettin hot in here

2009-06-08T13:24:00.000-07:00

I am one of those who refused to get an email account until starting college when they required me to get one. I was actually mad about it. But now, come on, I can't live without it.

I was stubborn about starting a blog because it seemed like too much work. But I loved reading my friends' blogs, so I did it. And it's so easy and a great way for family/friends to see your kiddo's growing and share your thoughts! (and now that you can print your blog in a book, its better than scrapbooking.)

I DID NOT want to get into the Facebook thing because it was introduced to me by my very cool college aged cousin who said it was, "like, all the rage." I wasn't going to go there. But after some real poking by some friends, I joined and yes, I ... well you will have to read on to see what I think.

I have not texted or used twitter. I do not plan too. But you can see from my past history here, things aren't looking good for me.

So like yo' Facebook me. My issue with facebook.
First I want to say I like it. I really do. I like the 'today' part of it. Seeing what is going on now.
But what I do NOT like is...
The quizzes, votes and polls.
I have tried to get into them, but just can't. Again, check my past history, you will probably see "what celebrity would play you in a movie" quiz tomorrow on my facebook.

Obvously I know all the people taking them, so it is interesting, but some polls are just wanting to add gas to a fire. Namely, vote yes or no to gay marriage.
This one really got my goat. By the nipples. and twisted. then pierced them.

Here is why.
I know God's Word says we are not to judge. I am not judging here. We are told to stick to what the Bible says so I will. Our personal opinions are now subject to His standards.
If you are not in Christ, I don't expect you to hold to His teachings, but if you are, I do.

In general we do not want people living in a harmful lifestyle...
We do not want people to murder, have orgies, lie, commit adultry, live in rage, or fear, molesting or abusing, having a jealous heart, full of greed, lust, I could go on and on here.

But WHY? Because it is NOT what is BEST for the person.

We want what is best for someone. God wants us to be free from sin through Jesus and depend on Him to NOT LIVE in that sin. Daily dying to our desires and choosing to live for Him. Hard? Ummm, YES!!!
Its the whole "love the person, hate the sin" thing.
I want someone to love me and hate my sin.

So... born that way? This is the great rebuke. Yes, we are all born that way. A slave to sin. In bondage to the world. Loving delicious sin that is not God's best.
People say," just love them the way they are." I am supposed to love my neighbor as myself, not the choices they make. Those who want to break free, its totally possible. I have to believe we can break free from ANY sin that holds us captive. If I didn't, where would my faith in God lie?

OK, OK, off the soapbox. Basically I am just disappointed. I am hurt. When people I know who love Jesus do not take a stand for what God's Word says, its like a slap in the face. Confusing. And they are airing it with the facebook world. I know there is someone on the fence about it and they see someone they trust vote Yes to something and now they will too.

P.S. I KNOW I continually get tangled in sin -and struggle in many areas, but do not want to remain in the sin. I have also been rebuked by fellow believers to keep me in check. (Gossip, hateful, controlling, just to scrape the surface) And you know who you are- thank you. This blog is not to check anyone, it is to air my heart and what is going on in my life.
Leviticus 18:22

Sippin some hot tea!
Natasha

a bit self indulgent

2009-06-01T12:05:00.000-07:00

As Simon from American Idol would say, "I think it was a bit self indulgent." Well that explains this blog post. But its my blog and I'll be indulgent if I want too.

From the 5th grade when I got my hands on my first bottle of Sun In, my haircolor has not stopped changing color. I recently made it back to natural color, but then one day thought- I want to go dark red, then all that hard work was instantly changed with my five dollar bottle of hair dye.
In high school I stuck with the blonde shades. In college the reds/oranges and in the last few years the darks shades of brown/black. If haircolor made a wife, Adam has been married to many different women. Thank goodness he doesn't have any favorites (or so he says).
Here was the super short almost black. This is my personal favorite.

I had the best time in beauty school. Thanks to being laid off from teaching, my unemployment paid for me to accomplish one of my dreams, being a "beauty operator." That is the official term, ask anyone over 70 yr's old and that is what we were called.
During those 9 months I, the beauty operator, was able to perm, streak, color, style and seriously do anything my heart desired to my hair and my girlfriends hair. So much fun!

This month marks 2 years that I decided to let my hair grow long. I had not had long hair for about 10 years and so I made a pact with myself to just do it. Now thats it is long, my thoughts: girly, don't have to wash it everyday, easy to wear up, looks "pretty" but not necessarily cool.

I have been looking like this... fairly normal
Summer is here and now I look like this... (a few more blonde highlights are still needed) but basically its strawberry with blonde highlights and a little shorter. Fun for a season, then who knows, maybe I'll cut it into a faux hawk or section off some dreadlocks.
"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are still full of greed and self-indulgence." Matthew 23:25

Enjoying something new,
Natasha

2009-05-26T12:50:00.000-07:00

I HEART PLANNING.

It's really just part of how God made me. I love planning anything, the nitty-gritty details of it all, planning parties, playdates and everything in between.

I am SO excited about our plans over the summer.

Here are some of the high-lights I am looking forward too:

June is our missions month for our LifeGroup (we will be supporting Dillon's OrphanCare)

Heading to the Tulsa Zoo

Teaching two Creative Kids Art Camps

Vietnam Family Camp

Nursery coordinator for India, China, Korea Camps

Adam's Texas business/family trip

To Be Free Women's Ministry

Tracy coming to visit

Time at the splash pad and pool

The funny part is, my husband (& his family) are complete non-planners!

Which works out good, at least for Adam and I, because I get to do all the planning and he just comes along for the ride : ) (I would like to add he does have the gift of hospitality.)

Oh and one important sidenote. I am not busy. So please do not say, "Oh you're just so busy." Nope. Sorry. That is the beauty of planning. I know how to not over-schedule, I do not over-commit, I say "no" a lot and schedule things far in advance. That is just one beauty of planning, for me it = less stress.

Here is a little on-the-fly poem for you...

Planner O Planner

How I do love thee

You allow me to enjoy life

And schedule so thoroughly

What would I do

Without you O little planner

I would be hungry

But would have missed my dinner

You keep me balanced

And entirely in check

This is just the way God made me

Without it I'd be a wreck

So for those non-planners out there

Who remember without writing a word

Come join me by the pool

You spontaneous freebird

"Where there is no vision, the people perish." Proverbs 29:18a

Lets plan a sip sometime,

Natasha

something fun, something hard

2009-05-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

My goal of getting some creative juices out has been so fun. I have enjoyed spending some time making beautiful earrings. (And I have just about doubled my earring collection.)

This creative time has been a blast, but God has really convicted me about another, lets just say an "unhealthy addiction" area.
If you have issues when thin people talk about weight, stop reading now, if you want to read what I have to say, please continue.
Change does not happen overnight. Affairs start with the first flirt, success with hardwork, you get the point. During our first three years of marriage I put on about 40 lbs. It did not appear on my body overnight, it was many gradual decisions that increased my weight. When I was ready for it to disappear, it took 18 months of hard work-outs and changing my eating habits to shed those 40 lbs.
I have noticed lately that I have become addicted to bread and sugar. Can't make it a day without many cravings, that must be satisfied or I lose it.
Breads being: cereal, pasta, rice, bread, biscuits, cornbread, tortillas and the like.
Sugar being: raw cookie dough, cake, and basically any thing I can get, pronto.
For me it really got bad when I didn't want to read Avi Joy a nap-time story because ice cream was screaming my name in the kitchen. Ummm, food over child? not good.

I took the matter up with the Lord and completed a 5 day bread and sugar fast.
OH MY WORD. People who eat like this all the time, you are amazing. When you are addicted to certain foods that you cannot eat, it hurts.
BUT I learned so much!!!
All things are possible with God's help. I never cheated, not even once.
I had SOOOOO much more energy.
There are delicious healthy (non bread/sugar) foods.
I had more time to do other things instead of eating.
Adam noticed I enjoyed my 'real' food more than normal

If you are curious, here were my meals each day:
Day 1- plain oatmeal, carrots, chicken breast, apple w/almond butter, salad and watermelon
Day 2- plain oatmeal, 1/2 protein bar, salad w/chicken, pineapple juice, 1/2 banana w/almond butter, veggie burger w/cheese, strawberries and watermelon
Day 3- cheese omelet, veggie salad, chicken salad w/ edamame, 1/2 protein bar, chicken cordon blue and spicy squash
Day 4- banana, grape juice, 1/2 protein bar, chicken salad w/ edemame, 1/2 apple w/almond butter, sausage/egg/cheese, milk
Day 5- orange fiber shake w/strawberries, 1/2 banana, tuna salad, apple w/peanut butter... then dinner was freedom (off to a wedding: dinner & cake!)

It was hard, but I felt a sense of victory that I can make good decisions and not let food control me, or my behavior. Since then, I have had dessert and bread each day and I know they are a gift from God.

"So I commend the enjoyment of life, because nothing is better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. The joy will accompany him in his work all the days of the life God has given him under the sun. " Ecclesiastes 8:15

sweet sips,
Natasha

Major Flaw

2009-05-09T17:05:00.000-07:00

I have a major flaw. I am easily offended. I wish I was a let it roll of my back kind of person, but I am not, getting better, but not great at it. I will say once I am over something, I am over it. I rarely hold bitterness or resentment, but it takes a bit of thinking and prayer to get over an issue.

I was offended today.

Our family was at Hobby Lobby enjoying a Mothers Day treat. I have been having serious creative withdrawl so my treat was beads for making earrings and a canvas. I plan on vearing from my usual watercolor mode and doing an acrylic painting. I am sure Vietnam inspired, but we shall see.

We had a great time shopping and as we proceed to checkout, the cashier says...

"Where are your children from?"

I say, "Vietnam."

She says,"My grandson is from Kazakhstan, but three years after they got home, they had their own child. Its weird how that happens."
I say, "Well, all children are a blessing from God." Then walk away or I would have said...

"OK, here's the deal. You do NOT say that to a family built through adoption. All I hear and all my children hear is 'You are second best to a biological child and you are not really their own child,' you need to watch your words you idiot."

Obviously if I am blogging about it, I am not over it yet. I KNOW it comes with the territory and I try to handle it the best I can, today it was just hard for some reason. I mean I was there celebrating MOTHERS DAY, I am a real mom for crying out loud. Which is what I did on the way home.

I was reading a book about women's widsom and this woman in her 90's was giving advice.

I think this really says a lot about life...

"If it bothers you, let it go. Just let it go."

sip, sip,

Natasha

2009-05-07T14:45:00.000-07:00

I have a new favorite TV show. I got hooked on it last season and this season does not disappoint. It's Locked Up Abroad. Have you seen it? I LOVE it!

It is very well made and I appreciate their vulnerability.

I am not an advocate of being hooked on TV, but when I do fall in love with a show, I am hooked. We all know how easy it is to watch mindless TV, but is that really good for us? There are so many better things to do with our precious time...

In our house we have never seen Lost, Gray's Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, House or Dancing w/ the Stars... It is weird when I hear people talk about their love for certain shows and I am totally out-of-the-loop. But that is ok, I have my own few fav's.

I mainly stick with shows on Food Network or girly reality TV (So you think you can dance). I pick and choose my fav's and stick with them. Part of this is that I am not a night person. I want to crawl in bed by 9:30pm so my after kiddo time is limited. (Cause I am up at 5:30am)

I enjoy that Adam and I have a few we watch together. A new one is Dhani Tackles the Globe its very guy-ish, but I like the culture thrown in. And one of his favorites is Top Gear and their season finale this year was outstanding ... it was the three hosts motorbiking from south to north Vietnam!

As you can tell I have been thinking about TV-life since my own has been pretty challenging this week. The challenging part is keeping myself together (patient, non-violent) while my 3 yr old is having major 'tude and my 1 yr old is cutting every tooth in his mouth. It is not the most fun I have ever had.

(But this Oreo cheesecake with a side of ice cream is helping the pain while they are both sleeping!)

"A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense." Proverbs 19:11

Word study on Patience.
A few sips of my life,
Natasha

oh how we forget

2009-05-03T17:56:00.000-07:00

My name is hard to remember, mostly I get, "Its nice to see you again Natalie," or just a blank stare in the hopes that I will not remember their name either. I always reintroduce myself, even if I think they should know my name. So if you are in the right place, I am Natasha, welcome to International Blend... lets just jump right in shall we. My lesson: Remember.

For some weird reason I have had a string of people forget me lately. A couple of stand-ups here, a few forgotten get-togethers there, a gift that never showed up and other you're-just-not-that-important-to-be-remembered moments.

Let me just declare- I am NOT perfect. I have overlooked others and forgotten things hundrends of times, if you are one, sorry. Now were even, I have had my turn.

All these moments have led me to meditate on what it means to be remebered. We remember the Titans, a smell, someone in heaven, a memory, our prom, the arrival of our children, thousands of things in our little brains.

When you go to God with something that hurts, you will receive encouragement. Failing to remember is all throughout the Bible. Mostly everyone forgets God. Today even if we are not remembered in the way we would like, let us not forget about the Lord. For it says in Psalm 115:12, "The Lord remembers us."

"I remembered You, Lord, and my prayer rose to You, to Your Holy Temple."
Jonah 2:7
Word study on Remember.

A few sips of my life,
Natasha