Kitchen Tuesday

Hello Everyone!!! I hope you had a wonderful weekend!  I'm sure some of you noticed that I didn't post a blog for yesterday.  I was so busy with the grill and the cooking that I just didn't get it done!  We'll pick up with spiritual gifts next week, I promise!

Today is Kitchen Tuesday.  I'm going to give you a great recipe for a dry rub for ribs -- whew - it's good!  And I'm going to share a few entertaining tips that I've enjoyed.  And then...I have a treat for you at the end...you're gonna love it!

Dry Rub for Ribs -

1/3 cup sugar
1 T. paprika
1/2 T (1 1/2 t.) cumin
1/2 T chili powder
1 t. garlic powder
1 t. cayenne pepper
Sea salt and Fresh Ground pepper to taste

All measurements are approximate -- mix and taste - mix and taste --

Mix all ingredients together and rub all over meat.  Be sure it's fully coated and rub it into the meat. 

Grill or bake according to your preference.  I baked my ribs covered for about 3 hours on 200F in my oven and then dried them out the next day on the grill -- the meat literally fell off the bone -- so so so good!

Easy decorating tips for Cookouts or casual dining.  If you are planning a casual dinner around the grill make the best of your surroundings by dressing them up just a little...easy and inexpensive decor will make it fun for everyone.

For napkins - rather than using paper - I buy themed dish towels at the Dollar Tree or anywhere that has them priced inexpensively.  The dish towels soak up BBQ sauce so much better, look cute and when washed make great napkins or additions to the dish towel collection.  I never buy paper napkins anymore.

For plates -- use your casual dinner ware rather than Styrofoam or paper plates.  This, of course is useful when having a small crowd -- or - buy end of season melamine plates at clearance and start a collection to use for a larger crowd. If you use disposable plates, please use some that are bio-degradable.

Flatware - why not invest in some extra flatware rather than using plastic which will inevitably break?  Clearance items and thrift stores have great buys in these useful tools and if you don't want to use them regularly - just store them in Ziploc bags. 

Glassware - again, discount stores have great buys in glassware and plastic ware or use mason jars.  If you invest in it a little at a time (especially end of season) - you can store everything away and pull it out at party time.


I've just found that disposable dinnerware is just wasteful.  It's expensive and I usually have dishes to wash anyway - so adding a few plates, cups and flatware really isn't much more work.  Putting everything away in a plastic tote makes it easy to pull out and use each time and makes my guests feel much more welcome.

Tablecloths -- There's nothing worse than an old plastic tablecloth that blows into all the food - getting it everywhere!  I like to use old quilts (washable ones), fleece throws or decorator fabric for table cloths.  They are much heavier and in combination can make a cute table!  2 colors of solid fleece throws make a great team party -- quilts and old china make a great outdoor afternoon tea - and remnants of decorator fabric can be purchased so inexpensively and just tie knots in the edges to give it extra weight -- don't bother finishing the edges -- either leave the selvage or trim it with pinking shears.

Centerpiece -- use an old pitcher and fill it with what I like to call "yard flowers" - whatever happens to be growing at the time -- pick in bulk and place in the pitcher and voila!  you have a floral arrangement!  Or if you put your indoor plants outside in the summer -- pick a pretty one and put it in the table.  Use a collection of 3 of most anything and that will make a pretty table centerpiece.  Don't be afraid to use your inside decor outside.  It will make your guests feel so special!

Put canned or glass bottle beverages in galvanized tin pales filled full of ice. They can be purchased at the local feed/seed store or hardware store very reasonably. How wonderful to grab an ice cold soda or water from one of these while playing badminton or volleyball!
As promised - I have a very special treat for you today!  My dear friend Deb, posted something on Facebook this morning that I just loved.  She used some of Jennifer Rothschild's writing and added her own.  I have gotten her permission to print it here for you all to read.  I hope you enjoy it and that it blesses you as much as it did me! 

Gutsy Girlfriends of God say.......

WITH GOD, I CAN...

Elevate my faith more highly than fear.
2 Timothy 1:7

Do all things through Christs strength.
Philippians 4:13

Overcome through faith.
1 John 5:4

SINCE I BELIEVE GOD, I AM...

Gods workmanship.
Ephesians 2:10

More than a conqueror.
Romans 8:37

Beautiful.
Psalm 45:11

BECAUSE I CHOOSE TO BELIEVE GOD'S WORD, I WILL...

Trust God more than my feelings.
Proverbs 3:5-6

Rest in God and not be shaken.
Psalm 62:5-7

Never quit.
James 1:12, Hebrews 10:39

I LOVE YOU ALL....DO NOT BELIEVE ANY OTHER WISE! YOU ARE A BLESSED WOMAN OF GOD THAT HE IS FORMING INTO HIS IMAGE....IT WILL BE DIFFICULT BUT SO WORTH IT ALL.

Deb..

Have an awesome day!! Be blessed...not stressed!  Amy

Friday's Freebies

Happy Friday, Happy Weekend, Everybody!!!  I'm guessing that we're all ready for a great weekend ahead!  Woo Hoo!!

Since today is freebie day, I think I'll give you a few decorating tips.

I need to be in a 12 step program for fabric addiction.  I absolutely love designer drapery and upholstery fabric.  It's so full of life and ideas for me!  I know, I know - it's not for everybody...but for me -- it's just one of life's beautiful things!

There are some great ways to use designer fabrics even if you don't know how to sew or have very basic skills and just like Sandra Lee's Semi-Homemade meals (Food Network) - you can make semi-homemade decor, using ready made products and combining them with gorgeous designer fabrics.

Window Treatments - to the average person, making draperies from scratch seems a daunting task.  But if you add designer fabric or trims to ready made panels, you have a custom look without all the stress and mess.

Here's some basic ideas:

1. Exchange 18" of the plain panel by adding 18" inches of designer fabric across the bottom.  You can get really creative with decorative trims to hide the seams and if you're really good with a hot iron and press-on tape or hook/loop tape - you can have them done quickly without sewing at all!  If you want to make them fancy - add a ruffle of fabric to the panel or pleats -- use your imagination!

2. Rather than cutting the solid panels, simply sew the fabric on top of the panel.  Just press the raw edge neatly and either top stitch or iron on using press-on tape (stitch-witchery is one brand).  You can make stripes, boxes, frames, shapes - the sky's the limit!

3. Simply adding decorative trim to ready made window panels or valences can make a huge difference in the way they look.  Just be sure to measure the panels and allow 2 extra inches on each end for tuck under and finishing.  You must allow for any raveling that WILL occur.  Don't trust the measurements of the panels on the package -- they are mass produced and may be off just a little bit -- take the time to measure accurately and you'll be glad you did.

4.  Just like panels can be embellished, valences can as well.  Using decorator fabrics you can add extra style and color.  Same thing with trim.

5.  This is the easiest of all - buy two different colors or 1 solid 1 pattern pair of panels for each window.  Gather 1 of each color for each side of the window and you'll have a personalized touch in literally the time it takes to put them on the rod and hang them in the window!

I think the point is - you don't have to settle for ready made if you don't consider yourself a decorator.  Just adding some personal touches to the ready made stuff will make it all your own.  Look at magazines that have the same style decor as your home and when you're out shopping for clothing pay close attention to the detailing on the clothes you like.  Add that type styling to your home decor and it's sure to please.

I hope you have a great weekend.

See ya soon!  Amy

Verse of the day:  "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."  Philippians 4:13

Tips and Tricks Thursday

Verse of the Day:  Proverbs 31:15-20 -- "She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy."


Happy Thursday!  Can you believe it's almost Memorial Day weekend?!?  Happy Graduation to all the seniors and college grads!  And to those who serve our Country in the military and their families -- we thank you, appreciate you and salute you for your sacrifice - and to the ones who have fallen - our deepest gratitude and sympathy to your families...may you rest in peace in the arms of God.  Please don't just vacation, grill out and play this weekend -- take the time to remember those who serve to protect the freedom we have to enjoy those things.

Today is Tips and Tricks Thursday -- wow this week has flown by!  Today's tips and tricks have to do with organization.  I have to tell you - I'm really not much of an organizer but I have friends that are and I read a lot about it and over the years, I've adopted some of these and they really do work...so if you're an "organized wannabee", like me, maybe these tips and tricks will be helpful.

Clothing:  When organizing clothing, it's so easy to hang items by color rather than by style.  If you use general color coding, then you'll have a much easier time seeing your clothes, putting them up after laundering, and then knowing on a more regular basis whether you have pieces that are rarely known because they will continually hang in the same spot, with the same color.  This can be done with all articles of clothing whether folded or hung.  I've used this system for over a year now, and I has really made a difference in the time it takes to decide what to wear, keeping a neat closet and discarding unworn items.

Holiday Decorations:  I don't know if you have noticed, but the big box stores (Walmart, Target, Home Depot, etc) have begun selling storage boxes that coordinate with common seasonal colors.  The plastic containers are either all the seasonal color or the lids are.  I love this!  If you are in the process of re-organizing your holiday decor, try purchasing your new storage containers during each season of decoration -- for instance -- we now are in spring/summer.  The plastic totes are bright colors of greens, pinks. blues and purples...these would be wonderful for organizing Easter, birthday, summer outdoor decor.  If you only purchase new containers during the season when you use the decor, then when it is time to change, you'll have fresh new containers and you can label them according to contents and next time they'll be easy identify.  You might want to purchase a red or blue one for Independence Day, Memorial Day and Labor Day decor.  Oranges, Browns, Greens and Blacks are available in the Fall - so harvest, Halloween, and Fall decor would go in those and then for Christmas, red and green are readily available.  Purchasing them during the month when these items are being used offers you the opportunity to get rid of the unused items, and the old worn out containers and have the new ones ready when it's time to put the decor up for another year.  Just be sure to label your contents.

Linens:  It seems that there's always a dilemma when it comes to organizing the linen closet.  Here's a practical solution -- put the linens in the room where they will be used rather than in a central location.  If you can designate one drawer in a dresser for sheets in each room or an area in the closet, then you'll free up space in your linen closet for other things like cleaning products and tools as well as blankets, quilts, extra pillows and sleeping bags.  Storing sheets is much easier when folding the flat sheet, fitted sheet and one pillow case and put all in the remaining pillow case.  All parts are there and ready for changing the bed in one self-contained package that stores neatly away.  Ironing sheets isn't really necessary anymore either -- take them out of the dryer immediately and fold -- hand pressing as you fold -- store warm and the wrinkles will naturally fall out -- lightly pressing the pillow cases will give a crispness and is much quicker if you simply must press! :)

Kitchen:  Knives will stay sharp longer if they hang on a magnet strip rather than storing them in a drawer.  They aren't as prone to bump other utensils, thus dulling the edge.  Magnet strips may be found at kitchen specialty stores, import stores and larger department stores or online -- they are called Kitchen Magnet strip or Knife magnet strips.  Storing utensils in crocks or jars in the areas where they are used make them so much more accessible when cooking.  They won't get junky looking if you only keep the tools used regularly -- put the lesser used items away in the drawers.  Small appliances can get in the way and take up so much counter space.  Seriously consider how often they are used when deciding whether they need to take up such valuable space and only keep the MOST used items out.  Put the others away in an area where they can be easily accessed when needed and send the rarely used items to another home.  Most small appliances have multiple uses, so feel free to pare down to fewer when you can. 

Fridge and Freezer:  Make use of zip storage bags as much as you can.  If you buy items in bulk, such as meat and produce, and plan to freeze much of it -- place individual pieces on parchment lined trays and cover with plastic wrap.  When frozen, remove pieces and place in zip storage bags and label and date them.  If you'll stack the items neatly, you'll have a lot more room in your freezer than you can imagine. 
For the health conscious - I read an article on AOL recently that said by moving produce drawers up to the middle of the refrigerator, people will be more likely to choose fruits and vegetables for snacks and meals and likewise, placing the more fattening foods on the upper or lower shelves will put them out of eye view and thus people are less likely to snack on those items.

I hope these tips/tricks have been helpful today.  One last common sense tip to consider.  Today's gas prices are so high - but seriously consider how far you need to drive to get a bargain.  If your hometown has gas for $3.66/gallon and the closest large city has gas for $3.63/gallon and you need to drive about 35 miles to save that money -- on a 15 gallon tank -- you'll only save about 45 cents...but you'll use up a lot more than 45 cents worth of gas to save that money.  Do the math, it may not be a real bargain!

Hope you have a lovely day today!! Be blessed...not stressed!  Amy

Wednesdays in the Word

Happy Wednesday Everybody!  If you're reading this, I'm guessing the end of your world didn't come either.  There have been false prophets around for ages and ages and this guy seems to wear the crown right now.  It's so sad to me that fear of death makes people so crazy -- where there is no truth, there is no peace.  I heard an interview with this past weekend on "Nightline" and he compared the errors in his predictions of Christ's return to the mistakes that Thomas Edison made when he invented the light bulb, saying that "Edison didn't get it right on the light bulb the first time around - we may not get it right either."  I'm sorry, but comparing eternity to light bulb invention is about the most ridiculous thing I've heard in quite some time!

So...in light of today's topic, I want to share some beautiful words of TRUTH with you and a few thoughts to encourage you today. 

Let's take a look at Matthew 24:36-44:

“No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son,f but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left. “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."

 I've heard so many say recently that we're in the "last days".  These are people of faith, too.  I personally believe that we've been in the "last days" since Jesus rose from the dead and ascended into Heaven.  I've read some commentary on this latest prediction and there are some who believe that Christians won't be raptured but will endure the suffering of the tribulation period.  Others believe that the Church will be raptured before the tribulation period with a remnant left to bring others into the Kingdom while awaiting Christ's return to reign on earth.  I must say, that I am hopeful that the Church will be raptured but I agree that suffering is part of the work of God and the patterns He has set forth in His Word include His very own Son to suffer so why would we expect to receive any less.
So rather than debate the pre-, a- and post-millennium theories, I'd rather focus on God's Word for today.  The truth of the matter is that if Jesus doesn't know when God will send Him back, then no human has any know and it's not really up for debate or discussion.  If we believe God's Word in any part, we have to believe it in whole.  We can find comfort in knowing the absolute truth of this anytime that someone makes a claim that conflicts with God's Word and we can offer comfort to others by showing this passage and so many others to them that make it clear that Jesus will return but that only God knows when that will happen.  Our job is to tell others about Jesus and how believing in Him and trusting Him as their Savior will eliminate any fear or doubt when "doomsday" predictions appear in the news media.

There's so much to do without focusing on the when's and how's of Jesus' return.  Let's let Him find us busy - using the gifts He has given us to bless others, being vessels of unity rather than division in our churches, workplaces, community and families.  Let's let Him find us faithful - not doubting or worrying, but steadfast, firm and strong in our relationship with Him and our commitment to serving Him.  Let's let Him find us hopeful - anticipating His goodness, His return, believing Him even when things aren't going our way, trusting that His plans are for good and that His plans are for for us to have a hope and a future - not only here but for eternity.  And finally, let's let Him find us truthful -- true to our word, true to ourselves and each other and honest in our actions and deeds. 
Our greatest ambition should be this - for both here and in eternity, we should strive to hear our Savior say, 'Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!'


Have a blessed day ....I will see ya tomorrow!!  Amy

Kitchen Tuesday

Hi Friends!! Thanks so much for your wonderful feedback on the blog.  Please tell others about it and let's get lots of folks reading and commenting!  :)  You are terrific!

Today is Kitchen Tuesday so you know what that means -- recipes and tips from the kitchen!  YAY!!  I had some fun grilling out over the weekend.  There's just something about this beautiful weather that makes me want to turn on the grill -- how about you? 

Today, I think I'm going to give you a few grilling secrets and maybe a couple of easy recipes for side dishes -- but these tips have come in handy for me so I think I'll just pass them along.

First one:  Be sure that your grill is really hot before you add anything to it.  If you can count to 10 with your hand held over the grill -- it's not hot enough -- wait it out and you will have a non-stick surface. 

Second one:  Don't overturn your meat.  If you will be patient your meat will tell you when it's ready to be turned.  How so? It will easily lift off the grill.  If it's trying to stick -- it's not ready to turn.  This is especially true with chicken, steak and hamburgers.  Fish and shellfish should be brushed with olive oil before adding to the grill or you'll never get it turned -- and end up with a MESS!

Third one:  If you want to smoke your meat - use the lid -- if you want to grill your meat -- leave it off (or open). 

Last one:  Cleaning your grill is much easier if you do so when the grill grate is warm.  If you wait until it is cold, you'll have a lot of char stuck on the grill.  Don't clean it while it's hot, but wait until it's touchable and clean it -- you'll eliminate any residue - and if you use an indoor grill doing this will get rid of lingering odor.  Try to use a cleaner like baking soda or salt that is abrasive but won't affect the taste of your food. 

Ok -- now for recipes:  Grilled Fresh Asparagus Salad

1 bunch of fresh asparagus (washed and snipped at break point (to find this hold 1 piece of asparagus with your fingers and bend it until it snaps -- this is your break point - cut the remaining asparagus at this length and you should have tender stalks)
1 1/2 T. Olive Oil (place in a small bowl)
pinch of salt and pepper
pinch of garlic powder
1 or 2 Fresh Tomatoes
2 t. balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic chopped finely
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
sliced olives for garnish (optional)

Lay asparagus in a shallow dish or pan and brush with olive oil.  Sprinkle with salt, pepper and garlic powder and place on hot grill.  Watch carefully and turn as stalks begin to get grill marks.  Remove when tender and bright green...but keep warm.

Wash and slice tomatoes.  Sprinkle with salt and pepper.  Mix Vinegar with remaining olive oil and add garlic to this mixture. 

Assembling Salad:

In a pretty oval or narrow rectangular platter, arrange sliced tomatoes in 2 rows.  Place asparagus down the middle of these two rows and sprinkle olives randomly over both.  Pour vinaigrette over this to coat but not soak the vegetables.  Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over all as if sprinkling fresh snow.

Serve at room temperature.

This salad is great with anything - a fancy grilled salmon or tilapia with rice or as a side dish for a great burger and some grilled corn or potato salad. 

Wish I had a picture for y'all....you'll have to just make it to see just how pretty and delicious this is! 

Here's one more easy side dish:  Grilled Fresh Corn

Shuck and wash as many ears of corn as you'd like
Using softened UNSALTED butter, lightly coat each corn cob and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Place on a hot grill and turn occasionally -- cooks fast if grill is hot.  In NO time, you'll have one of the BEST side dishes on the planet!  Let it get brown in some areas - not burnt - but it just makes the taste richer and summer-y!!

This is one of our favorites!!!

These aren't fancy but I promise you, if you like fresh veggies -- you'll love both of these!

Until tomorrow...be blessed not stressed!!  Bon Appetit!  Amy

Verse of the Day:  Genesis 1:29 Then God said, "I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food."

Meaningful Mondays

Good Monday to you all!  I hope you had a great weekend!  Seems like I was outside all weekend long.  I got a little sunburned and a snoot full of dust as I planted some flowers and dug in the dirt. and rode around in the convertible.  James and I went to see Johnny Depp in the new "Pirates of the Caribbean" to celebrate our anniversary.  It's such a good movie and as always, Johnny Depp is at best in his charming quirkiness!

So today we will continue into the series on Spiritual Gifts.  Last week we touched on the gift of service.  Today I want to take a look at the gift of Administration.

The personality of someone whose primary spiritual gift is Administration is going to be one of numbers and timelines.  They operate best in working with schedules and few details - only the necessary ones.  In the church, these people serve so well in leadership roles, organizational tasks, setting budgets, working with deadlines and delegating tasks to others.  The administrative gift is an overt gift.  This means that this type of gift puts this person in the forefront - on the front line, so to speak.  Administrators can be blunt and to the point without a lot of flowery words or deep conversation - unless it involves planning and action. 

Administrators are "take charge" kind of people who can easily get over-committed if no one else rises to the challenge on their time line.  When operating in the Spirit, an administrator will have an uncanny knowledge of how things need to be done, and will be keenly aware of the people needed to complete the tasks at hand and will be able to deligate authority, receiving a great amount of cooperation for the task.  When operating outside of the Spirit and under the control of Self, an Administrator can be very difficult to get along with.  They can be demanding, harsh and critical and have a need to be served.  They will bark orders and pass judgment quickly and will have difficulty deregating a task but rather will claim supreme knowledge and authority over the matter.  They can also have difficulty with relational intimacy, keeping distance and remaining guarded.  Spouses or children of those with the gift of Administration often complain that they feel more like an "employee" than a loved one.  Just as satan does everything in opposition to the Father, self operates in direct contradiction to the Spirit.  So when you consider an administrator operating outside the Spirit, will work in direct opposition to authority or unity.  Administrators are very conscious of time.  They put deadlines on everything, even themselves.  They want to see a beginning and an end with very little "middle" in between.  They thrive on control - no matter who is actually in charge.  They may have difficulty listening and talk out of turn to get their point across.

In the work force, an administrator can be a force of nature.  Their natural leadership ability puts them in positions that are often powerful and high profile.  Political leaders, judges, corporate decision-makers, top level educators are just a few positions that fit well to an administrative gift -- but there are lower profile positions that fit well for this gifting too.  Military officers, those who manage artists, accountants, bankers, real estate brokers, those who organize and set appointments, office managers, middle management, business owners, chefs, hair stylists, medical administration, company decision-makers, etc. all fit well too. 

An administrator isn't always an extrovert.  Many very successful administrators are introverted.  They may not be as astute at managing people, but they manage operations and structure very well.  Extroverted administrators are comfortable in the spotlight and manage the pressure of the position well.  They may or may not be people oriented but they are passionate about their work and their mission.

These people are necessary and vital to the success of not only businesses and public organization but they are vital to the success and organization of the local church as well.  They are many times viewed by those who don't possess this gift as "power hungry" or controlling when that may not be a fair assessment.  Rules, time and organization allow the administrator to focus on the work or task at hand. 

It would serve the person who has the gift of administration to seek God each day to guide and temper this gift and the use of it.  It is a rare treasure and not a gift that should be hidden.  But as with all gifts, the more mature the believer who holds the treasure, the more useful the gift will be to those the believer touches. 

The verse that would be a good guide for the administrator would be Matthew 6:33 - "But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you."  This verse realigns the focus and sets the tone for Who is really in charge and who grants the gifts and responsibilities that go along with them. 

If you hold this priceless treasure, give this gift back to the Lord each day and ask Him to direct your speech, thoughts, decisions and those who cooperate with you either in the work force, at home or at church and ask Him to bless and increase your gift as you handle it responsibly and according to His good will.  Trust Him and He will direct your path...

Be blessed...not stressed!  Amy

Friday's Freebies

TGIF!!!!  Today is my 22nd Wedding Anniversary....hard to believe it's been that long...Happy Anniversary to my husband, James.  Thanks for putting up with me for such a long time!

Since Friday is our Freebie day, I'm going to let you do the talking.  I'm going to throw out some questions and if you're willing, I'd love it if you'd comment.  Let's not make this a one-sided conversation today, ok!

Here goes....

What is your greatest fear?

How old do you have to be to consider yourself "old"?

What is your favorite month?  Season?  Holiday? and why??

Do you have a favorite song?  What is it and who sings it best?  Why is it your favorite?

If you could pick someone famous to have lunch with (dead or alive), who would you pick and what would you talk about?

Do you think we're living in the "last days"?  Why or Why not?

Ok - so, pick a couple of these questions and put your heart into them and answer them -- not with a 1 or 2 word response, but really answer them.  Have fun with it!  It lets me get to know you better.

hehe -- it's a short one from me -- you do the rest....until Monday...don't be stressed -- be blessed!  Have a great weekend!  Amy

Verse of the Day:  Proverbs 3:5, 6  "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind.  In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths."

Tips and Tricks Thursday 4th Edition

Hello Friends! This post was slated for last week as I travelled home from the Smokey Mountains, but for whatever reason, Blogger went down and this never posted -- it's such a good list of tips and tricks that I've decided to use it for this week -- enjoy!!
So....today is Tips and Tricks Thursday!  I'm going to make it quick but these are GOOD!

Natural mosquito repellent -- Listerine (or the generic form)!  Buy a big bottle of the gold original flavor and pour into a spray bottle.  Don't dilute!  Spray all around the porch, door facings, outdoor furniture and lightly on your clothes and mosquitos and other flying insects will flee!  This will last a couple of days -- and the scent really isn't all that unpleasant.  We tried this on Sunday for Mother's Day and were able to eat outside on the patio for the first time ever and not have to swat flies and mosquitos!

Cutting corn off the cob and dread the mess?  Here's a great tip!  Using your bundt pan, place the corn cob tip side down into the center hole.  Scrape the corn off the cob and it will fall easily into the pan and you'll have an easy stand to hold it while you do.  This is so much faster and much less messy and makes for easy scraping of the "corn milk" off the cob too if you're making that delicious creamed corn!

Want to keep ants away from your garden but really don't want to use pesticides?  Use Baking Soda.  Sprinkle soda around the perimeter edge of your garden (not near or on the plants - will burn them!)  Ants don't like the salt and will leave immediately.  When it rains the soda will soak into the soil and sweeten it to make it healthier. 

Got ants inside?  Sprinkle some ground oatmeal around where they are.  The worker ants will take the oatmeal back to the queen and she will eat, swell, and die -- no queen - no worker ants -- no problem - and no pesticide near your food, children or pets.

Gotta run -- I'll see you on Friday!!! Be blessed...not stressed!  Amy

Verse of the Day:  "When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the LORD your God for the good land he has given you."   Deuteronomy 8:10

Wednesdays in the Word

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."  Matthew 7:13, 14

Home Sweet Home!!  I enjoy traveling so much but I'm always happy to come on home, how about y'all?  My trip to the Smokey Mountains last week was a wonderful trip with lots of adventure, sweet people, and interesting experiences....laced with a little stress, a few wild animals, and a GPS that I've decided really likes city life more than the mystery of 2 lane roads in the mountains....

I've spent some time thinking about all the different roads I traveled this past week.  Some were smooth and new and easily navigated.  Others were old and narrow and filled with bumps and holes and twists and turns.  Some led to absolutely no where and were scary and dangerous.  And some of them were easily navigated and clearly marked.  There were hills and valleys, 2 lanes, 4 lanes and 6 lanes and there were some that had guard rails for protection and others that had no protection at all.  Many were traffic filled and had all kinds of attractions along the way.  Most were long, dark and narrow without anything but trees and rocks and hairpin curves.  A few seemed to lead in the right direction and then suddenly would end with no warning at all and no clues as to what might be ahead.


On some of these roads, I felt very safe.  I had no worries at all because I knew where I was going.  My borrowed GPS gave clear directions and I was certain it was trustworthy.  But there were some roads, my friends, that were deceptive and led me to places of danger and I had no idea what was coming and neither did that GPS.  I saw bears, strange faces, and wild turkeys too.  There were big rocks and hairpin curves and few, if any, streetlights along the way in these areas.  When I found myself on those scary roads, I felt alone, stressed and like I had been lied to -- in fact there were occasions when I called that GPS a big fat liar!


Isn't that just the way in our lives too, though?  The journey of life is filled with all kinds of roads.  Roads that take us exactly where they need to and other roads are deceptive and dangerous even though they may appear to lead in the right direction.  Sometimes the roads are rocky and treacherous and other times our life roads are smooth and uneventful.

If we commit our lives to Christ and follow Him, we have no guarantees of a life without challenge - in fact just the opposite is true...Jesus guarantees that we'll have struggles -- He says, "In this world you WILL have trouble, but take heart, for I have overcome the world." John 16:33  He tells us that people will hate us because of His Name.  So why then would we choose to follow Christ or should we?  Go back to John 16:33.  In this world we WILL have trouble.  If it stops there - and it does if we choose not to believe...because our lives have no relationship with the One who has overcome the world.  But because we choose to believe, our encouragement comes in knowing that Jesus has already paid the price and our physical troubles are just temporary as are our lives here on this earth - eternity awaits us and that's when the real living begins.

Walking with Christ isn't easy and it's filled with ups and downs and twists and turns...but I've yet to meet a person who doesn't know Christ whose life isn't filled with those very same things...the only difference, and it's a major one, is that for that person - there is no peace, no hope, only the certainty that this life is all there is. 

Dear friend, if you are that person.  The one who doesn't have Christ as your guide on these dark and narrow roads of life, I'd like to share with you today that you can have Him as your Light and Savior.  Your life can have purpose and meaning beyond yourself and those dark and scary days don't have to be spent wandering alone and afraid.  Jesus lays out a plan for you that is very easy to understand and easy to accept - all you have to do is believe...For you this day, I'm sending this message of hope.

Step 1 -- First be willing to admit that God exists, that He created this world and that He created you. (Romans 1:20-21 - "For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.")

 Step 2 -- understand that you are not a perfect person and that sin seperates you from God.  Sin is disobedience to God.  (Romans 3:23 - "For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.") 

Step 3 -- Be willing to admit that you have sinned and that this is displeasing to God. To live your life as a sinner, means that you will die and spend eternity in Hell. However, by accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior, and asking forgiveness of your sins, you can have eternal life. (Romans 6:23 - “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”)


Step 4 -- Believe that Jesus Christ is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead and you will be saved! (Romans 10:9-10 “That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.")
Step 5 - tell someone about your decision and determine to spend the rest of your life following, studying, and loving the One who died for you and who was raised from the dead to save you. 

It's just that simple.  Please don't delay -- Choose this day to give your life to Jesus...won't you?
If you've made the decisionwon't you post a comment and let me know.  I'd love to pray for you and share in this most wonderful decision!

Until tomorrow...be blessed...not stressed!  Amy

Kitchen Tuesday

Hi Everybody!  Happy Tuesday!  I made some great stuff over the weekend that I thought I'd share with you -- I didn't take any pictures though....I just forgot!  So sorry!!

Sunday dinner at our house was simple and healthy Italian fare.  I made Chicken Piccata with Wild Rice and a beautiful tossed salad with a Blueberry Vinaigrette and some savory garlic bread...oh and ice cream with caramel banana sauce for dessert....yum yum!

Here are the recipes:

Chicken Piccata -- Easy as Pie!

3-4 large boneless skinless chicken breast halves
1/2 cup flour
2 tablespoons capers
2 lemons
1/3 cup white wine or chicken broth
Olive Oil

Wash and pat dry chicken breasts and place one at a time on cutting board.  Place the palm of your hand on top of the chicken breast and slice crosswise thru the breast (as if butterflying) but cut all the way through.  This will leave you with 2 very thin cutlets for each breast of chicken.  Repeat for each chicken breast.  Lightly salt and pepper 1 side of each cutlet and place seasoned side down in shallow pan of flour.  Salt and pepper the remaining side and lightly dust the chicken in the flour.  Shake off excess and set on plate as you continue this process with each cutlet. 

Heat about 2 to 3 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet (be sure the bottom is lightly coated but not deep in oil.   Scatter cutlets in skillet but don't crowd them.  Saute' them until lightly brown on each side and remove from pan.  Add wine or broth to pan to deglaze (this removes the tasty bits left in the bottom of the pan).  Add breasts back in pan and zest 1 lemon and then squeeze juice over breasts.  Add Capers and thinly sliced lemon.  Bring to a light boil and then remove.  Serve over rice or mashed potatoes.  SO SO Good!!

Tossed Salad with Blueberry Balsamic Vinaigrette

Use fresh baby greens, cherry tomatoes, finely diced celery, carrot slivers, sliced radishes, walnuts and a few blueberries for the salad.  Lightly season with salt and pepper and keep cool until ready to serve

Blueberry Vinaigrette --

1 large clove garlic - minced
1 shallot - finely sliced
Handful of fresh blueberries
1 t. Olive Oil
1/3 cup Balsamic Vinegar
1/2 cup Olive Oil
1/4 cup honey
2 T. sugar

In a small skillet, saute the garlic and shallot until tender.  Toss in blueberries and toss till they pop open.  Add Vinegar and cook until berries are tender.  Pour this mixture in food processer and process until smooth.   Continue processing and pour in remaining Olive Oil, honey and sugar.  Process until smooth.  Add salt and pepper to taste and serve over salad.  This is lightly sweet and smooth -- beautiful purple color.  Delicious!!

Savory Garlic Bread --
1 loaf Ciabatta bread (French or Italian bread will do as well)
1/2 stick unsalted butter, softened
1-2 large cloves garlic minced
1 T. chopped parsley
1 t. Italian seasoning (fresh herbs can be used too (a little thyme, rosemary, sage)
Pinch salt, pinch pepper

Slice bread lengthwise and place on baking sheet cut side up.  Mix butter, herbs and seasonings together and spread on bread.  Place under broiler -- watch closely -- remove when golden brown and bubbly. 

Caramel Banana Sauce for Ice cream -- Great way to use ripe bananas!

3 ripe bananas - mashed
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 T. unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream

In non-stick pan, heat brown sugar over low heat until melted and bubbly brown.  Pour in cream and stir with whisk till thoroughly mixed.  Add butter and stir till melted.  When cooled, pour into banana mixture and add a splash of vanilla.  Stir well and place in fridge to continue cooling.  Serve over vanilla ice cream with some toasted pecans or almonds.   Will make you squeel with delight!  Yummy!!

Hope you enjoy these -- Mom and James and I sure did! 

Verse of the Day:  Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Meaningful Mondays

Hi Everyone -- I hope you had a wonderful weekend!  I haven't switched over to the new page just yet.  Blogger was down some over the weekend and I didn't have a chance to get the new page completely set up -- so we'll give it another week if that's ok with you.


Last week, I started the new series on Spiritual gifts and I'd like to continue with that for the next few Mondays.  Today we're going to take a look at some of the personalities behind giftings and how you can know if you are operating in your gift set or outside of it. 


Today, let's take a look at the "hands-on" gift of SERVICE. People who possess this gift are typically those who are satisfied to work behind the scenes.  They don't want recognition for their work, but appreciate being thanked for it.  Within the church setting, those with the gift of Service are well suited to work with their hands (running audio or video equipment, setting up and taking down sets and furnishings, keeping the grounds, maintenance, organizing sacraments like Communion and Baptism or special events, etc.).  Those with service gifts do well working in teams but can be just as satisfied working independently. 

We are all called to be servants of God and to serve one another in love.  But the servant who possesses the spiritual gift of service is unique in his/her abilities to serve the body of Christ.  When we serve one another in love or serve God we use our unique giftings to do so.  The person uniquely gifted to serve simply has a natural capacity to be the hands of God in doing so. 
People who possess the hands-on gift of Service are happiest when they are busy.  Idle time doesn't do well for those who like to work behind the scenes.  These gifts are easily overlooked and under appreciated by the body of Christ but they are incredibly important.  Buildings would go in disrepair, facts and figures would be disorganized, worship services wouldn't run as smoothly and the overall organization of the church would be very difficult without those who are willing to use their gift of Service generously.  It's so important to thank those who have this most special gift -- not in a public manner but in a personal "1 on 1 way"...a simple note, a word of thanks or appreciation with a hug or pat on the back will make these folks feel appreciated, needed and wanted.  Ignore these people, and they won't say anything - they will just quietly disappear into the crowd or leave.

God intends for our gifts to be used for good and He enables us to use these gifts especially well when we abide in Him. We we step outside of His direction though, our gifts can help us to know that we have because they become the exact opposite of themselves. Abide in the Spirit - gifts are used for good -- Abide in Self -- gifts become selfish or self directed. For instance, someone whose strong gift is serving when abiding in the Spirit will become needy, co-dependent, selfish and critical when abiding in Self. They will become resentful and withdrawn if their gifts aren't being used effectively, which is direct opposite of their natural gifting. Remember - the enemy always acts in direct opposition to God, so if you have the gift of Service and some of these actions and attitudes are present, then you may be operating outside the spirit of God's direction and in serving self you give over to the enemy's schemes.
I believe that Christians should be sensitive to their spiritual gifts when making career choices and relationship choices too.  We are to use our gifts to build up the church but that's not just the local church -- it's the global church too and if we are to carry out the Great Commission in reaching the lost, we'll be so much more comfortable in doing so if we are operating in our gift set.  It's far reaching and really should be considered in making the major decisions of our lives.


What types of careers are good for those with "hands on" gift of service? 
The best careers for this gift would be service oriented and hands on.  Working independently, without a lot of supervision is great for someone who is service oriented because they are typically responsible and trustworthy.  Working with their hands, tools, technology, equipment, physical type work all fits well with a service oriented person.  Fire, rescue, police/sheriff, paramedics, etc. make great jobs for service oriented Christians.  Cooks, wait-staff, clerical staff, gardeners, farmers, carpenters, tradesmen (plumbing, electrical, masonry, etc.) as well as medical support professions (x-ray, lab tech, research, etc.) all fit into the types of work that someone with the gift of Service might find deeply satisfying.  Of course this list isn't complete, but I hope it will get the ideas flowing if you are someone who is seeking career information or direction or maybe you have an interest in knowing why your current job may or may not bring "soul" satisfaction.

I encourage you to embrace this beautiful gift if God has blessed you with it.  Be satisfied in knowing that what you do, is not done for man's eyes, but for God's. 

Scripture of the Day: "Make a joyful shout to the LORD, all you lands! Serve the LORD with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations." Psalm 100

Until tomorrow...be blessed...not stressed!  Amy

Wednesdays in the Word May 11

Hello Everyone!  I hope you are having a lovely day today!  I'm in Pigeon Forge and having a GREAT time!  Please continue to pray that I find my way back and forth to these events.  Today, I'm going to be in LaFollette, TN at the First United Methodist Church.  I'll be sharing my testimony and singing a couple of tunes.  I absolutely love doing this.

I've decided to simplify my blog address so that when I'm at events, I'll be able to tell others about it and where they can find me.  So beginning next week, my new blog address will be http://amydrinkwater.blogspot.com/.  No Worries, I'll keep reminding you about the change -- but don't make it yet -- there's nothing there yet.  I've just reserved my spot!  :)

Today's devotional is about journey.  It's based on the Scripture of Deuteronomy 8.  http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+8&version=NIV

I love this passage because it's such a beautiful charge to the people of Israel as they anticipated their travel to the Promised Land with Moses as their leader.  It's a favorite because God has led me there so many times as I've walked in the wilderness these last few years.  It has encouraged me and kept me going when I was about ready to drop my sword and give up. 

As Christians, we're all on a journey to the Promised Land.  Heaven is our destiny and this world isn't our home.  In light of all the tragedy, war, hardship, disaster and diseases such as Cancer, AIDS and Alzheimer's, I find myself so grateful that I'm just a temporary resident here but I know that my purpose in being here is much greater than counting down the days till I go Home.  You have a purpose too.  What is our purpose?  To live our lives to glorify the Lord and enjoy Him forever.  Everything we say and do should be done with that in mind.  When God calls us Home, we really should be completely spent up and worn out, shouldn't we!

Deuteronomy 8 recalls God's protection and provision during their deliverance from slavery and journey through the wilderness.  It lays out the promises that God gave not only to the people of Israel as they were facing the last step of their journey out of the wilderness but it also gives them a charge as to their responsibilities in being good stewards of this most amazing gift of promise.  It is laced with warnings of worshipping idols and other gods and the seriousness of not aligning with people of other faiths and how seriously God takes this.  But it's also filled with so much love.

I think I appreciate this passage so much because it's as if my Father sits down beside me and lays out His purposes and reasons for the wilderness season as a father would to an adult child.  It's clearly and plainly spoken and seems to answer so many of my "Why's" and "What should I do's".   And it forces me to look back and see the amazing protection that He has provided to me in my own wilderness journey.  I'm able to re-focus my eyes in looking forward to the future and be thankful even for the discipline that God has placed upon me not because of His anger - but because of His deep unconditional love for me as His child.  It's a reminder not to forget Him in the good times and to praise Him when good things come my way.  And, it gives so much perspective to whatever season in life I happen to be in at the time - because I am able to see that it's temporary and most definitely will change at some point.

So, if I may encourage you in your journey today, regardless of where you may be - whether it's being held captive to some type of bondage or slavery or whether you are entering into the wilderness, in the wilderness or walking out of the wilderness - or whether you are sticking your feet into the soil of your beautiful Promised Land...remember, my friend - God loves YOU!  He loves you so much that He allows these points on your journey to strengthen you and teach you about Himself, His love and to show you just what you are made of.  Hard times are part of living and if you haven't experienced any...get ready -- you will.  Just remember - it's temporary -- it's training -- and it's not Home.  Keep walking.  Keep reading God's Word.  Keep fighting the good fight...finish the race.  Lift up your head and don't walk in shame -- You, my friend, are a child of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

I'll see ya tomorrow....Amy

Kitchen Tuesday - May 8 edition

Hello Everyone -- As you are reading this today, I'll be in Pigeon Forge Tn and singing and sharing my testimony with 2 groups of lovely ladies at their Christian Women's Connection luncheons today and tomorrow.  I'd love it if you'd say a prayer for me - specifically that I'll find my way around, arrive on time, and have enough time to get my thoughts together after everything is set up and ready to go.  I appreciate your prayer support so very much!

So - today is Kitchen Tuesday -- and I've got a very quick and tasty time saving supper for you!  We're celebrating Cinco de Mayo a little later....

Here's the recipe for my Quick and Easy Chimichangas! 

1 package flour tortillas (I used large because I had them)

1 lb. lean ground beef, chicken or turkey

1 pack taco seasoning mix

    (or make your own like I do--salt, pepper, cumin, red

     pepper, chili powder, garlic powder - all according

     to taste)

1 small package - layered fiesta dip (found in deli case - contains, sour cream, beans, salsa, guacamole, etc -- pick what you like)

1 pkg. shredded Mexican blend cheese

1 jar salsa

1 container queso dip

1 bag spinach

1 bag microwaveable Spanish or Mexican rice

Vegetable oil

Brown ground meat in a skillet adding seasoning during browning process.  Drain meat if necessary and cool.  Spread a flour tortilla with a couple of spoons of dip and then sprinkle meat on top of this.  Sprinkle with cheese and roll into a burrito roll.  To do this, fold the side edges over onto the filling and then starting with the edge closest to you gently but firmly roll over and seal with a wetted finger (use just a little water).  Place seam side down into a casserole dish to rest while you make the others.  Continue doing this until you have used all the ingredients.  (This recipe will make 8 large or 12-16 small).  After you have made all the chimichangas, heat oil in another clean skillet enough to flash fry one side at a time.  When oil is hot (placing the end of a wooden spoon in and bubbles form will indicate readiness).  Place a few chimis in the skillet and fry till golden brown on both sides.  Place on paper towels to drain - keep warm. (Note: cook all of them now, and then when cool, wrap and freeze the extras for a quick meal later on! -- all you'll need to do is either microwave them or warm them in the oven.)

Heat Rice according to package directions.  Melt Queso dip too.

To build each serving place a hand full of spinach down on plate, top with a spoon full of rice and place Chimichanga on top of rice.  Pour a small amount of queso over the Chimi and top with a little salsa to make it pretty!

This is a filling, delicious meal -- and if you don't want to fry them, brush them lightly with a little olive oil and bake at 375 degrees until golden brown....I fried mine, so I'm not sure how long it will take!  :)

I hope you'll enjoy these -- my husband ate them for a round 2 dinner and cleaned his plate both times!  He loved that all he had to do was heat the "ready-made" one in the microwave with the extra rice I had made.

Bon Appetit!  I'll see ya tomorrow!   Amy

Meaningful Mondays #4

Happy Monday Friends!! I hope that Mother's day was a blessing to each of you and I hope you have had a wonderful day so far. 

Today marks the first day of our journey into the world of spiritual gifts.  I'm going to begin a series of Monday blogs on spiritual gifts and how important they are in the life of a believer.  It is my personal opinion that spirtual gifts are extremely important in the lives of Christians and guide the believer's usefulness in the kingdom of God not only inside the church but outside the walls of the church and into the global church community.  If you are someone who has never taken a serious look at the gifts you have been given, I'd like to encourage you to take a spiritual gift inventory online at http://www.churchgrowth.org/ and select the free individual spiritual gifts inventory.  I've found this particular spiritual gifts inventory to be so helpful and clear and it doesn't take very long to complete.  Once you complete the survey, reading my blog will be a lot clearer and easier to understand. 

I'm planning to spend each Monday looking at specific gifts and areas of service that fit well for that gift but I want to go deeper.  I want to look at how spiritual gifts truly can help us to find the right career and help us to make good choices when making decisions.  Knowing how we are gifted can help us to resist the urge to get over-extended and be more selective in areas where we serve and grow.  I want to look at how spiritual gifts work and how God will give us primary gifts that stay with us consistently and then He will equip us with gifts as needed on either urgent situations or areas of service where we need to grow and expand our confidenct.  I'd like to explore helping us to understand further how we can assess whether we are operating in the spirit or outside the spirit -- it's really quite easy to determine with just a few quick tips and then I'd like to draw in the Fruits of the Spirit which are different than spiritual gifts - but we have access to them even more powerfully when we are confident in walking in our gift-set. 

I do hope you'll join me as we take this journey.  I believe you'll be enlightened, encouraged and that you'll enjoy learning more about these extraordinary presents from our loving Father and learning how we can be better stewards of them.

To someone who is a new believer, the idea of spiritual gifts may seem like a strange concept.  No worries.  We're going to start at the beginning.  What is a spiritual gift and how can I know what I have?

Spiritual gifts are given to the believer by the Holy Spirit according to God's will and they are meant to serve and build up the body of Christ.  There are many mentions of different gifts in Scripture. The term "spiritual gifts" comes from the Greek words charismata (gifts) and pneumatika (spirits). They are the plural forms of charisma, meaning "expression of grace," and pneumatikon meaning "expression of Spirit." While there are different kinds of gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4), generally speaking, spiritual gifts are God-given graces (special abilities, offices, or manifestations) meant for works of service, to benefit and build up the body of Christ as a whole.  (Reference: http://www.christianity.about.com/)

Here are a few Scripture references that list different spiritual gifts

 •Romans 12:6-8 •1 Corinthians 12:4-11, 28-31 •Ephesians 4:7-13 •1 Peter 4:10

A spiritual gift is different than a talent or skill.  The major difference is that the spiritual gift doesn't really require any training or practice -- just being aware of the gift and willing to use it sharpens the gift into usefulness.  Talent (such as singing, writing, dance, playing instruments, acting, visual arts, etc.) isn't necessarily spiritual though it is God-given.  Talent is a natural ability but to be better, it will take more training and practice.  There are millions of unbelievers who have exceptional talent.  A skill is learned.  (any type of profession, technical or trade skill comes from training and practice - talent may be a part of it, but the training differenciates the skill from talent.  Again, skills aren't spiritual in nature but are God-given.)  Gifts, talents and skills should all be used to serve and benefit the body of Christ but for our purposes we will focus on the Spiritual gifts and their significance.
 
When we meet again next Monday, we'll take a look at "Service" and "Administration".  So if you haven't had a chance to find out what your gifts are, you'll have a week or so before we begin looking at the individual gifts. 
 
I hope you'll enjoy this.  I ask for your prayers as I write this information to share with you.  I am passionate about spiritual gifts, but I don't want this to be about my passion -- I want this to be yet another way to encourage you to know who you are in Christ and just how special and unique you are.  I believe you'll be so encouraged when you become comfortable in your gifting and that will lead to a much more peaceful and confident walk with Christ and in serving the body of Christ with your gifts.
 
SO...know and grow - be blessed and not stressed!   Have an awesome week!!  Amy

It's FRIDAY!!!!!!!!!

Welcome to Friday, Everyone!!!  This has been a long week, but it's been truly wonderful to see the sunshine, blue skies and the outpouring of love and generosity that so many are showing to the storm ravaged cities and victims of last week.  If you are one of those people -- May God return a magnificent blessing according to your generosity!  Thank you!

Since Fridays are our freebie day, I thought I'd share some really wonderful Bible studies that I've had the opportunity to facilitate in the recent past.,.  If you are looking for some ideas to deepen your walk with the Lord or maybe you are interested in putting a group of folks together to study God's Word - these are just terrific and really have made a difference in my own life as well as those who have joined me for the studies. 

The first one I'd recommend is "No Other Gods" by Kelly Minter.  This study focuses on the First of the Ten Commandments and through personal encounters, stories and Scripture, she leads us to a deeper understanding of everyday idols - functional gods - that creep into our lives so subtly and aren't always material, bad things -- but many times they can be the really good things in our lives - but because they require so much of our attention, by definition they become idols.  Upon first glance at this study, I must admit, I honestly didn't think there would be much to it -- but my goodness!  Was I wrong!  The content, depth and combination of Scripture that Kelley uses in this short 8 week study are very powerful and eye-opening.  It's one I would do again and again and never tire of God's teachings.  Check it out at www.kellyminter.com

Second on my list of great studies would be "Fool-proofing Your Life" by Jan Silvious.  Whew!  If you have any type of relationship with anyone who is difficult, inconsistent, full of self, manipulative, has an addiction to anything, or just wears you out in general - then this study is for you!  Centered on the book of Proverbs, Jan uses a Scripture rich text to teach us practical applications of God's Word to gain sanity in dealing with "fools" - as defined in the Bible.  It's confronting, no nonsense, straightforward discussion that allows anyone who is seeking wisdom and sanity in relationship issues.  Jan isn't shy about speaking the truth in love and offers the reader a clear path for digging out of the dangerous behavior patterns in relating to these people.  There is a book, DVD and study guide for this study which is 8 weeks in length (including intro week).  Check it out at www.jansilvious.com 

A third study I'd like to recommend is one by Priscilla Shirer.  It's called "One in a Million" and centers on the time that the Israelites spent in the wilderness, just after leaving Egypt and before entering into the Promised Land.  For anyone who desires to gain an understanding of the purpose of the wilderness journey and try to make sense of things when nothing makes sense, this is the study for you!  Centered around the books of Exodus, Deuteronomy and Joshua, Priscilla takes us on a journey of a lifetime offering practical application to gaining peace, contentment and purpose during those times in our lives when nothing seems to be happening and we seem to be walking in circles in our faith.  Again, this is an 8 week study.  The leader guide is in the back of the workbook and the course may be done with or without the dvds.  Of the studies that I've done by Priscilla Shirer, this is one of my favorites.  Take a look at www.priscillashirer.com

Beth Moore's study of "Daniel" is another one of my favorites.  It's deep, it's challenging and offers so much insight to the past, present and future according to God's Word.  Daniel was so committed to live justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God and provides us with such a great example of how God will use a faithful servant in spectacular ways if we will commit our lives to Him and hold fast even when things just don't seem to go our way.  Daniel seems to "get the big picture" and has no issue with his role in his part of history.  This study has a good bit of homework but is wonderful for the person who has a passion for digging deeper in God's Word and grabbing for nuggets of great truth along the way.  It's 12 weeks and has a workbook, dvds and leader guide.  www.lproof.org 

A couple of books before I go -- I'm reading one now called "Made to Crave" by Lysa Terkherst.  It's her personal account of the journey into self control according to God's Word.  Lysa is very open, honest and laces humor with the Truth of Scripture to show the reader how to step into the fullness of purpose and calling by letting go of the strongholds of addiction (in her case, food) and allowing the Holy Spirit into those empty spaces to heal the hurts that exist in those strongholds.  The book is filled with Scripture and each chapter ends with questions for deeper thought and study.  Would be a great small group study -- it's not a diet book -- it is more of a heart book -- just a check up to see if there are deeper issues with regard self control.  There are dvds available as well as study guides too!  www.madetocrave.org

Last one (well really two!)  Smart Girls Think Twice (SGTT) and Big Girls Don't Whine (BGDW) by Jan Silvious...don't you just love those titles!  These books are awesome!  SGTT focuses on making wise choices and letting the Holy Spirit teach us to be better listeners, seers and speakers as we represent God's Kingdom.  It's a practical guide to searching out God's Word as a handbook for living in our world today -- a must have for anyone trying to make sense out of living!  BGDW has to do with developing confidence as a woman of God and walking in it.  Both of these books are great for small group discussions or for personal reading.

I hope today you'll find blessings in the small things and enjoy those around you.  Get out in the sunshine and laugh a little!  Have an awesome weekend!!

Be blessed...not stressed!! Amy

Tips and Tricks Thursday 3rd Edition

I hope you've all had a good day today!  It was a busy one around here...at one point I had 3 projects going and felt like a juggler!  I love projects and today was one of those days to work on some very needed projects around here. 

For Tips and Tricks Thursday today, I thought I'd just share a few ideas for decorating that have helped me over the years.  Nothing big or earth shattering, just easy fixes and money savers that I use on a regular basis.

Here goes.  I started making my own window treatments many years ago.  As a new homeowner who was working full-time, I had to find ways to save time and money.  If you like to sew, you can save a lot of money and time by using top sheets as lining for your draperies.  The sheets are already finished on one end so you don't have to hem them and most window lengths are at least as long as a standard sheet.  There is plenty of width in a twin sheet for 1 panel and if you are making multiple width panels using decorator fabric using a full, queen or king sized sheet will allow a seamless back side to your window panels which would look nice facing the outside of your windows.  I try to buy a decent quality sheet in white or off white (go with the color of your window trim as a general rule - no colors please) and I turn the finished "top" of the sheet to the inside so that the back of the panel just looks like a nice finished hemline.

If you are making window valences or dust ruffles - sheets work just as well for lining and you won't need to buy a lot of extra fabric -- 1 twin sized sheet will make several 18" long valences and for a dust ruffle, just divide the width of the sheet by the drop of your dust ruffle (top of the box springs to the floor) and add 3" for your seam and hem allowance.

Another quick decorating project is a dust ruffle - my way.  I don't use the platform for attaching the dust ruffle but rather make mine in 3 pieces and attach directly to the box springs using hook/loop tape.  This makes for easy attachment and removal and is far less time consuming to make.  You can make a variety of styles using this method, just adjust your measurements accordingly and let your imagination run wild!

If you use decorator fabrics -- NEVER wash them!!  They are scotch guarded and are manufactured to repel dust and grime so usually just putting them in the dryer (air only) or vacuuming them will remove any dust, spider webs.  Dry cleaning can fade, weaken or remove the sizing and scotch guarding - so it's not recommended at all.

If you use ready made panels, but find them to be lacking fullness or too short.  Buy a contrast panel and cut and add this fabric to your primary panels.  Or you can alternate the panels -- buy 2 of one style and 4 of another and alternate them on your rod -- 1-2-1 on one side -- and 1-2-1 on the other side.  Easy way to add fullness and interest to an otherwise standard boring look.  This is especially pretty with solid color silk panels.  Try putting a solid in between 2 patterned panels -- pretty!  These are fast and easy ways to add personalization to your window treatments without a lot of sewing expertise!

Duvet covers make wonderful masses of fabric that can be used for other purposes.  Cut apart it can be made into a dust ruffle, drapery panels, or decorative throw or throw pillows.  There's a lot of fabric in a duvet -- many times high quality too and much less expensive than buying decorator fabric by the yard.

So, these are just a few decorating tips for today.  Please feel free to add comments and ideas and tell your friends -- it's all about helping each other and I know that some of you are much more creative than I am....so share away friends!!  :)

Verse of the day:  "She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue."

Proverbs 31:22, 24-26

Until tomorrow -- be blessed...not stressed!  Amy

Tuesday-Wednesday Combo this week

Hi Everyone!  We had internet issues last night and I wasn't able to get my blog written and posted so I'm going to combine Tuesday and Wednesday together to catch up! 

Since Tuesday was supposed to be Kitchen Tuesday, I had planned to share some wonderful salad dressing recipes since we're now entering into the best of salad season.  I haven't bought bottled dressing in so long, it's hard to remember the last time I did!  These are just wonderful and so very easy with ingredients right out of the pantry and fridge!

Fresh Lemon Vinaigrette

1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 cup Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice
1 teaspoon sea or kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper (less if you prefer)

Add all in a pretty bottle, cork and shake well.  Store in fridge (2 to 3 days if it lasts that long!)

This dressing is GREAT on baby greens, fresh spinach or as a sauce for grilled fish or chicken!  Very versatile, very easy and very healthy!

Homemade Thousand Island

1 cup Mayonnaise (I prefer Duke's light)
1/3 cup chili sauce (looks like cocktail sauce but does NOT taste the same)
1 tablespoon prepared mustard
1 to 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
Juice from 1/2 lemon

Put all ingredients in a small bowl and mix together with a spoon.  Add more chili sauce if you want it to be sweeter and then add salt and pepper according to your taste.  I don't add salt and pepper myself, but I know some of you might like to do so.

This is a great dressing for a Cobb salad, Reuben sandwiches, lettuce wedges with fresh bacon bits and it's really good on any entree' salads because it's a little heavier.  This is my mom's recipe.  Be sure to keep it in the fridge!  Will last a good while.

Honey-Balsamic Vinaigrette

1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar (I LOVE pomegranate/balsamic vinegar in this!)
2 tablespoons local honey
1 teaspoon sea or kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 crushed and finely chopped fresh garlic clove (may use 1/2 t. garlic powder instead)
1 sprig fresh parsley - remove leaves and chop finely
1 to 2 sprigs fresh lemon thyme -- remove leaves and rough chop

In a small bowl add all ingredients in order listed except herbs and garlic.  Mix well and then add garlic and herbs.  Mix again and serve.  It's just easier to mix the vinegar, oil and honey without the herbs first -- seems to stay together a little better for some reason.  Using a funnel, pour this dressing in a pretty bottle and cork it for storage.  This will keep in the fridge for a few days - if the oil thickens, just let come to room temperature before using.  This is a delicious marinade.  It's great on any salad - especially one that has dark leafy greens.  If you don't like fresh herbs, these can be left out but I find them just divine in salads.  If you want to substitute fresh mint for the parsley, that would be a nice, fresh taste if your salad has berries on it.  I keep this on hand all the time.  It can be brushed on steaks, chicken or fish when grilling too!

I have other dressing recipe concoctions that I use a lot -- I'll add some others later -- but these are my go-to's.  I hope you enjoy them.

Now for the Wednesday portion....I read a devotional this morning by Sylvia Gunter.  I receive it each week and always find them to be such a blessing.  Today she spoke of the storms of last week and the contrast of the royal wedding -- here's the link:  http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs016/1101889363883/archive/1105374896010.html

I was so intrigued at how God showed Mrs. Gunter the connection of prayer and exaltation of God in both the storms and the wedding.  It was something I had not really seen in the midst of it all and yet I felt drawn to both.  God tells us in His Word, that "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me." John 12:32.  We are hearing so many stories of people coming to know Christ through this storm and how His power and His glory are being lifted up in the recovery process.  There were so many viewing the Royal Wedding both in person, on the streets of London and on television and we heard prayer, Scripture and spoken word that magnified and exalted Jesus Christ as King of kings and Lord of lords.  And while one days' events were so very tragic and the other day's events were so very celebratory, the contrast comes together in exalting Jesus and lifting up His Name.  Seeds have been planted into the lives of those who don't know Him and I firmly believe that many of these seeds will grow and there will be a greater hunger to know Christ more intimately and personally in many of those lives.

How can we make a difference in these coming days?  We can give...there are so many organizations who are accepting physical, monetary and donations of goods and services to those who've lost so much...go to http://www.abc3340.com/, http://www.rickandbubba.com/, http://www.samaritanspurse.com/, http://www.redcross.org/, and so many others.  If you are a facebook user -- check out the Toomers for Tuscaloosa page -- they are doing an awesome job at organizing help specific to Tuscaloosa.  If you are local to Pell City - there will be a yard sale at FBC Pell City this Saturday from 7 until Noon -- there will be special care for tornado/storm victims -- and there will be a bake sale too -- please contact the church 205/338-9444 for more information or to donate.

I pray blessings to you this day -- exalt Jesus everywhere you go by action and attitude...He'll draw people to Himself if we'll do that....

Be blessed...not stressed!! Until tomorrow....Amy

Three men and a Fiery furnace

Hello Everyone!  What a week we had last week!!! 168 tornadoes in Alabama, the Royal Wedding, and Osama bin Laden's death...and that was just what the news covered!  If you're like me, last week is merely a blur of events that seemed to have all run together. 

Today's devotional will be taken from the book of Daniel chapter 3.  The story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego is a story that most of us have heard since we were children.  It's truly a wonderful story of God's faithfulness and gives us such a wonderful example of 3 men who did not fear the future but the trusted God regardless of their circumstances. 

If you haven't read the story, please take a moment to do so - I believe you'll find it fascinating! 

What I'd like to focus on from this passage today comes from verses 23 and following.  When Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego refused to bow to the king's statue and resolved that they trusted God and would worship Him and no one else, the first action of the king was to have the men firmly bound.  They were totally incapable of changing their circumstances.   The second scene shows us that the king ordered the fire to be turned up 7 times the normal burn.  It was so hot that the soldiers died who threw them into the fire -- they were consumed by it.  And the next passage shows the king marvelling that there were 4 men walking around in the fire - unbound and unharmed and 1 appeared to be of a divine nature.  The last scene gives us a picture of the 3 men walking out of the fire, a changed king and a newfound respect for God Almighty not only by the king but by the rest of the nation as well.

This amazing story is so full of object lessons for us.  These three men had been ordered to worship an idol.  They refused and faced certain death because of it.  But our first lesson comes in the form of resolve.  King Nebuchadnezzar was a big voice, a major power and had a roaring temper...and these 3 men were his employees - trusted leaders.  To refuse to bow down to this statue caused them to face the wrath of an egotistical, evil man.  But, he was just a man.  Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, knew God's Word and they knew that His very first command was to put NO OTHER GODS before Him and worship no other.  They knew God intimately because they prayed, worshipped and spent time with Him.  They remembered the great things He had done for their Nation and knew of His power and so just a man who happened to be their king and boss really didn't scare them much considering that if they had worshipped that statue they would have faced the wrath of God -- a seemingly greater force to reckon with.  I like their resolve -- respectfully they said, Oh king, we really don't need to discuss this matter with you - for if you throw us into the furnace we know that our God is able to deliver us and protect us from that fire's destruction -- but if He chooses not to, it won't change our behavior in worshipping your statue...we will not bow down to it.

The lesson here is that we have to make a decision in our walk with God.  We must base that decision on God and God alone and not our circumstances, outcome or future.  We must trust God regardless of what is going on inside, outside or around us.  We must believe He is good and He is God and that He always acts for the greater good regardless of the cost.  That is maturity in our faith.  If we can come to this place in our walk with God - then loss or facing the loss of property, people or possessions will not change Who we worship.

In their refusal to worship the statue, these men were bound tightly.  They had absolutely no control over their circumstances.  Have you ever felt like that?  Ever been in a situation where you couldn't fix it no matter how hard you tried?  Did it shake your faith at it's very foundation?  This is a great visual of the same situation.  I'm sure those of you who are reading this who may have experienced those great storms last week can truly relate to feeling completely out of control of your destiny and circumstances.  So many of us are bound so tightly by bad choices, attitudes, past hurts, wounds and unforgiveness that we have literally stunted our growth as Christians.  This is bondage and by letting the enemy take hold of our minds, thoughts and actions, we have assisted him in taking on those bindings - those ropes and chains that paralyze us.  Sometimes, our circumstances have nothing to do with our personal choices - they are affected by others.  Whether it's caring for an aging parent, sick loved one, small children or teenagers - or - whether its living next to a neighbor who gets on your last nerve or being a member of a very dysfunctional family or maybe it's a job loss, difficult work environment, unfaithful or unreasonable spouse - we may not have the ability to change these situations - but we don't have to bow down and let them defeat us.  There's nothing sadder than a Christian who has lost their resolve.  Sometimes things get so hard, we want to give up - that's when we dig in and fight harder.  It's when we let go of control and relinquish our will to God as Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego did in saying - we believe He can deliver us - BUT IF HE DOESN'T - it won't change who we worship.

Notice the next scene where there are 4 men in the fire.  They are unbound and unharmed - only 3 were thrown in the fire and yet the 4th one appears to be a divine being.  We may be in the midst of a fiery trial or a dry wilderness and may feel isolated and alone - but my friends, we are never alone if we have Christ.  He has sent His Comforter...the Holy Spirit - a divine being - to fulfill His promise to never leave or forsake us.  And if we are in the fires of life - guess what?  HE's right there with us.
They are unbound and unharmed.  The fire caused the bondage to burn off.  If we want to be free from the bondage of sin, we will go through suffering, trials, fire, tests.  This isn't punishment, though it may feel as though it is - this is the process of sanctification -- becoming more like Jesus -- loosing our bondage, freeing us to walk in fullness by refining us to be more like Him.  Boiling our "stuff" out of us so that we can come out on the other side stronger and purer and more useful.  If God is dealing with your "issues or stuff" right now, please don't rush this process - let him dig deep and carve out those deep hurts - you'll be the better for it on the other side if you're willing.

In the last scene, we see King Nebuchadnezzar with a change of attitude -- the confidence that Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego showed in God not only preserved their lives, but brought them protection in the fire, released them from their bondage and also changed the heart of a king and the attitude of a nation -- it turned the focus off of a golden statue and on to the One who is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. 

Three men who confidently believed in God and trusted Him beyond their circumstances received promotion in their positions of leadership - God blessed them materially because of their faithfulness and commitment to Him.  Three men didn't let fear paralyze them in holding fast to their commitment to worship only God -- God blessed them by freeing them from bondage, preserving their lives and walking with them in the fire which was 7 times hotter than normal - 7 marks the fullness of God in the Bible.  Three men confidently and respectfully refused to worship an idol but instead were honest with the king and trusted God in His fullness - God blessed them and changed the heart of a king and a nation because of it.

Never doubt that there's a ripple effect on those we influence in the choices we make.  It can be a good ripple or a bad ripple.  If we choose to operate in fear and allow our circumstances or old habits or weaknesses to control us - we can pass down these behaviors to the generation that follows us and it will continue to the next and the next unless someone rises up and agrees with God to do the work.  We might cause someone to stumble in their walk with God or turn their back on Him if we waiver in our trust and depend on our circumstances rather than God's Word to guide us.

We have a choice -- Choose this day, who you will serve.  As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.  Dear friend, will you choose this day to trust God and let His peace, which surpasses understanding be your guide in tough times?  Just as seasons come and seasons go - fiery circumstances come and go too.  If we are willing to walk through the fire and trust God when the heat cranks up 7 times hotter - we will emerge without burn or blemish and without even smelling of smoke into God's fullness.  We will be stronger, purer and more useful to God in the next season and more mature in our walk with Him.  Let's resolve today not to bow down but to trust God to deliver us - BUT IF HE CHOOSES NOT TO - we still will not bow down.

Until tomorrow - be blessed...not stressed!  Amy