The greatest commandment Jesus himself taught us is to Love the Lord with all our heart, soul and mind and to love others as we love ourselves. Love is a multifacitated noun that is broken down for us in 1 Corinthians 13. Over the next few weeks I will continue to go through God's top ten on love.
Last week (actually 2 weeks ago) we saw the attitude of love is patient and now we see that with that attitude there is another attitude with an action. The second attribute of love we find in 1 Corinthians 13 is "kind". The action is to be kind. What does that mean? To be kind is to act with good deeds towards others. To be kind is to expressing goodwill towards someone else. It is to think about what gives someone else pleasure. In order to act kind towards someone we must have an attitude of benevolence. The actions shown in love are intended for benefiting others rather than profiting for ourselves.
The opposite of kind is cruel. This brings to mind the fictional character Cruella de Vil from 101 Dalmatians. Cruella's name is a play on the words cruel and devil. Most of us have watched as she plays the villian in this Disney animated film. Cruella's goal is to steal puppies and then slaughter and skin them. Of course through a series of events, the puppies outsmart the villian and good overcomes evil. Cruella was only interested in her own financial gain without regard to those she was stealing from and the puppies she was disposing of. I share this to paint a picture of what the opposite of kind can look like.
In thinking ahead ask your self the following questions:
1) Who am I to love today?
2) Are my actions benevolent towards this person?
3) What relationships am I not being kind?
Father,
We love and adore you. You are the great "I am". Your ways are perfect and your love is without error. Thank you for always being kind. We know that kindness sometimes is letting us grow through our mistakes and always being present with your hand outstretch for us to reach back up to you. Reveal in my heart today where I am not being kind, change me Lord.
Amen
Loving you all!
Annie
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Savory Smackerels: How does your garden taste? Part 4
We've covered the cucumber, the peach and the tomato. But what's the novelty of "livin' off the land?"
I just got this email and thought it was a little too amazing not to share. Now, how can people not believe in the God of creation? He amazes me.
Oh, and one question. Since we have a rather abundant fig tree in our yard, would that have anything to do with the fact that we have twins when they don't run in either of our families? I shoulda known. It was the fig tree. :) Anybody need some figs? :) Speaking of figs, check out CC's latest fig endeavor (and perhaps you should stay tuned for her upcoming announcement. She did mention something about eating 16). :)
In the meantime, be in awe.
God's Amazing Pharmacy
It's been said that God first separated the salt water from the fresh, made dry land, planted a garden, made animals and fish... All before making a human. He made and provided what we'd need before we were born. These are best & more powerful when eaten raw. We're such slow learners...
God left us a great clue as to what foods help what part of our body!
God's Pharmacy! Amazing!
A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye... And YES, science now shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.
A Tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All of the research showstomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food.
Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.
A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.
Kidney Beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.
Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and many more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.
Avocados, Eggplant and Pears target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight, and prevents cervical cancers. And how profound is this? It takes exactly nine (9) months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit. There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (modern science has only studied and named about 141 of them).
Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility.
Sweet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.
Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries.
Oranges, Grapefruits, and other Citrus fruits look just like the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.
Onions look like the body's cells. Today's research shows onions help clear waste materials from all of the body cells. They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes. A working companion, Garlic, also helps eliminate waste materials and dangerous free radicals from the body.
I just got this email and thought it was a little too amazing not to share. Now, how can people not believe in the God of creation? He amazes me.
Oh, and one question. Since we have a rather abundant fig tree in our yard, would that have anything to do with the fact that we have twins when they don't run in either of our families? I shoulda known. It was the fig tree. :) Anybody need some figs? :) Speaking of figs, check out CC's latest fig endeavor (and perhaps you should stay tuned for her upcoming announcement. She did mention something about eating 16). :)
In the meantime, be in awe.
God's Amazing Pharmacy
It's been said that God first separated the salt water from the fresh, made dry land, planted a garden, made animals and fish... All before making a human. He made and provided what we'd need before we were born. These are best & more powerful when eaten raw. We're such slow learners...
God left us a great clue as to what foods help what part of our body!
God's Pharmacy! Amazing!
A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye... And YES, science now shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.
A Tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All of the research showstomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food.
Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.
A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.
Kidney Beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.
Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and many more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.
Avocados, Eggplant and Pears target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight, and prevents cervical cancers. And how profound is this? It takes exactly nine (9) months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit. There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (modern science has only studied and named about 141 of them).
Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility.
Sweet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.
Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries.
Oranges, Grapefruits, and other Citrus fruits look just like the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.
Onions look like the body's cells. Today's research shows onions help clear waste materials from all of the body cells. They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes. A working companion, Garlic, also helps eliminate waste materials and dangerous free radicals from the body.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Fellow blog love
We are REALLY excited about sharing a sweeeet fellow blog sister, Caroline Simas, with you as a MomPrenuer in the near future. We are also working with her on something really exciting that you'll find out about very soon. In the meantime, you can show her some RWAV love!
First of all, she is an amazing artist who loves Jesus and beautifully incorporates His promises into her work.
She has a line of cuuuute protective covers for your phone and/or computers with SkinIt. Because her designs are selling so well, they have asked her to design 4 skins with scripture to be released in the 4th quarter!!!! Isn't that exciting?! So, she needs to hear what scriptures her audience would most like to see as a reminder each day on their "skin"! Go here pronto and share your verse of choice!
While you're there, she is having a GREAT giveaway that you'll want to enter! She has designed a line of beautiful fabric for Robert Kauffman and is giving away four bundles of her not yet released line entitled Finally Free. Go here to witness the beauty and get in it to win it! Tell her the ladies of the Roof sent you. :)
xoxox
Happy Friday!
First of all, she is an amazing artist who loves Jesus and beautifully incorporates His promises into her work.
She has a line of cuuuute protective covers for your phone and/or computers with SkinIt. Because her designs are selling so well, they have asked her to design 4 skins with scripture to be released in the 4th quarter!!!! Isn't that exciting?! So, she needs to hear what scriptures her audience would most like to see as a reminder each day on their "skin"! Go here pronto and share your verse of choice!
While you're there, she is having a GREAT giveaway that you'll want to enter! She has designed a line of beautiful fabric for Robert Kauffman and is giving away four bundles of her not yet released line entitled Finally Free. Go here to witness the beauty and get in it to win it! Tell her the ladies of the Roof sent you. :)
xoxox
Happy Friday!
Free-for-all Friday: What's so great about blogging anyway?
A former coworker recently shared a blogpost with me that I knew I had to share with you. If you blog, I think you'll shout a resounding, "Amen!" when you read this. If you're not yet a blogger, it may help you understand all the blogging hooplah and maybe even make you want to start a blog of your own.
Background: Mom in Mendon is a mother and grandmother with grown children including daughters that are probably the age of many of us. She does an excellent job articulating the reason why we thought starting a community such as Roof with a View would be significant for moms. I say, "way to blog, Mom in Mendon!" Us moms following in your footsteps always appreciate the wisdom and insight of our foremothers. You are needed in the blogosphere and on the web!
In the 1950's and 60's, my mother prepared her four daughters for The Role of house-wifery and motherhood: "The most mundane, yet most meaningful work." She taught us to cook, sew, iron and economize. But she noted, "Happy mothers seem to have something extra going: a hobby, a creative outlet--something besides the Bendix washer on the service porch and a clothes line in the back yard. Something to ease the pressure of keeping up appearances, so all-important in that era. She told me about her friend. Bernice showed her a little pencil sketch she had done. "It wasn't very good, really," Mother explained, but Bernice said, 'I just need to have something else--an outlet.' " Along with all she tried to teach, Mother gave us permission to have an outlet.
There was nothing I wanted more than motherhood. Happily it arrived. But it was a LOT. Consequently, I kept my mother's counsel. With five young children in Riverside, California, I painted watercolors, I learned cake decorating, I tried writing. And mother was right. It helped. But even then, it wasn't enough. "What lack I yet?" I wondered.
Dad wasn't unaware. He praised the BLT's. "This was a lot of work. You had to toast the bread, slice the tomatoes, etc." He willingly sent me off to painting class while he held down the fort. In addition, of course, there were friends and neighbors, girls to call on the phone.
But despite my best efforts, it was a wistful me who wrote:
Background: Mom in Mendon is a mother and grandmother with grown children including daughters that are probably the age of many of us. She does an excellent job articulating the reason why we thought starting a community such as Roof with a View would be significant for moms. I say, "way to blog, Mom in Mendon!" Us moms following in your footsteps always appreciate the wisdom and insight of our foremothers. You are needed in the blogosphere and on the web!
Rescued
Blogs are genius. Without question they've done more for Today's Woman than psychologists, counselors, and women's magazines who sought to come to the aid of all those mid-century Donna Reid Moms--mothers like mine. Like me.In the 1950's and 60's, my mother prepared her four daughters for The Role of house-wifery and motherhood: "The most mundane, yet most meaningful work." She taught us to cook, sew, iron and economize. But she noted, "Happy mothers seem to have something extra going: a hobby, a creative outlet--something besides the Bendix washer on the service porch and a clothes line in the back yard. Something to ease the pressure of keeping up appearances, so all-important in that era. She told me about her friend. Bernice showed her a little pencil sketch she had done. "It wasn't very good, really," Mother explained, but Bernice said, 'I just need to have something else--an outlet.' " Along with all she tried to teach, Mother gave us permission to have an outlet.
There was nothing I wanted more than motherhood. Happily it arrived. But it was a LOT. Consequently, I kept my mother's counsel. With five young children in Riverside, California, I painted watercolors, I learned cake decorating, I tried writing. And mother was right. It helped. But even then, it wasn't enough. "What lack I yet?" I wondered.
Dad wasn't unaware. He praised the BLT's. "This was a lot of work. You had to toast the bread, slice the tomatoes, etc." He willingly sent me off to painting class while he held down the fort. In addition, of course, there were friends and neighbors, girls to call on the phone.
But despite my best efforts, it was a wistful me who wrote:
1973
Where are all the fans?! Why couldn't someone be there to applaud, or at least nod in admiration...as I deftly, maternally fit a diaper? Or why not a chorus of ooh's and ah's as I place the pot of Spring Garden on the table, with murmured comments around about my ability to balance budget, nutrition and time in one clever meal? I would be modest....[in the face of praise]. An audience is all I require for the maintenance of....patience, wisdom and creativity. In a musical voice I can say to the child bouncing off the couch, "Furniture is not for jumping." The child is bored? "Why, here, Sweetheart. Mother has made this cardboard box into a robot." Exclamations of awe and surprise from the fans. But [the Mom, staying at home in] obscurity has no fans.... If the clean clothes are mounded high on the folding table and the floor goes a few weeks unscrubbed, who will know? If my voice demands harshly, "Get this robe picked up!" no one can condemn.
In fairness to my younger self, I wrote on and explained my conviction that good mothers shouldn't depend on shallow praise for recognition. I ended with a reiteration of my reliance on faith and my certain belief that Eternal Fans watched from beyond the Veil. I still hold fast to those convictions, but it was, nevertheless, a lonely time.
Not so for my grown daughters today. The new Millenium arrived, bringing with it the Web Log. Wow. Precisely meeting their need, blogs provide women with the Audience, with the Fans, with the Recognition. Mothers, wives, single women have been lifted out of obscurity. They don't need a big readership. Mainly, they are no longer alone. That's not to mention the cyber friendships, the fresh ideas, the learning, and the just plain fun they get in online interaction. The internet has filled the void.
I know it's not the answer to everything. We women will continue with our moments of wistfulness. But what a blessing! My daughters are better off. And I'm glad for it.
You can read Mom in Mendon's original post here.
Where are all the fans?! Why couldn't someone be there to applaud, or at least nod in admiration...as I deftly, maternally fit a diaper? Or why not a chorus of ooh's and ah's as I place the pot of Spring Garden on the table, with murmured comments around about my ability to balance budget, nutrition and time in one clever meal? I would be modest....[in the face of praise]. An audience is all I require for the maintenance of....patience, wisdom and creativity. In a musical voice I can say to the child bouncing off the couch, "Furniture is not for jumping." The child is bored? "Why, here, Sweetheart. Mother has made this cardboard box into a robot." Exclamations of awe and surprise from the fans. But [the Mom, staying at home in] obscurity has no fans.... If the clean clothes are mounded high on the folding table and the floor goes a few weeks unscrubbed, who will know? If my voice demands harshly, "Get this robe picked up!" no one can condemn.
In fairness to my younger self, I wrote on and explained my conviction that good mothers shouldn't depend on shallow praise for recognition. I ended with a reiteration of my reliance on faith and my certain belief that Eternal Fans watched from beyond the Veil. I still hold fast to those convictions, but it was, nevertheless, a lonely time.
Not so for my grown daughters today. The new Millenium arrived, bringing with it the Web Log. Wow. Precisely meeting their need, blogs provide women with the Audience, with the Fans, with the Recognition. Mothers, wives, single women have been lifted out of obscurity. They don't need a big readership. Mainly, they are no longer alone. That's not to mention the cyber friendships, the fresh ideas, the learning, and the just plain fun they get in online interaction. The internet has filled the void.
I know it's not the answer to everything. We women will continue with our moments of wistfulness. But what a blessing! My daughters are better off. And I'm glad for it.
You can read Mom in Mendon's original post here.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Thrifty Thursday: Deal and Giveaway
VistaPrint has a current special where you can get 140 address labels free right now. Think out of the box on this! Examples: At one of my recent Fix and Freeze exchanges, my girl Donna had them made to read "Made with love by Donna Graham" and stuck to her dishes. Now, that's creative! Also, our girl Karen posted an idea from this blog to have them made to pre-address envelopes for your Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes so the children that receive your boxes can write you. Sweetness! There are all sorts of creative possibilities.
Update:
I received word from a trustee reader that she was having a hard time getting to the VistaPrint deal. If you have already signed up for VistaPrint, it should take you straight to the offer. You will just need to log in. If you are not a current VistaPrint customer, all you need to do is click on the below link, sign up and you should be taken to the offer OR you may receive it ASAP in your email. Thanks for the heads up, Ellen U.! Ya'll let us know if you still have trouble.
Save up to 80% on custom printed products at Vistaprint. Order today!
BabyElan{Daily} is hosting a timely end of summer giveaway for four tickets to Wet n' Wild Emerald Pointe in Greensboro, NC! You have until tomorrow (Friday) to enter. Get in it to win it!
Happy Thursday! Make it a thrifty one. :)
Update:
I received word from a trustee reader that she was having a hard time getting to the VistaPrint deal. If you have already signed up for VistaPrint, it should take you straight to the offer. You will just need to log in. If you are not a current VistaPrint customer, all you need to do is click on the below link, sign up and you should be taken to the offer OR you may receive it ASAP in your email. Thanks for the heads up, Ellen U.! Ya'll let us know if you still have trouble.
Save up to 80% on custom printed products at Vistaprint. Order today!
BabyElan{Daily} is hosting a timely end of summer giveaway for four tickets to Wet n' Wild Emerald Pointe in Greensboro, NC! You have until tomorrow (Friday) to enter. Get in it to win it!
Happy Thursday! Make it a thrifty one. :)
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Wednesday in the Word: There's a sermon in that...#3
A couple of weeks ago, I explained how if my husband had a nickel for everytime I see something and say, "There's a sermon in that!" He would have lots of extra spending money! Shall I share my latest visual?
We recently had a little staycation at a nearby lake. One evening, my hubs was fishing and out of the blue, saw a fish making a ruckus on top of the water. Upon closer look, he realized a snake was escorting the fighting fish to the bank of the lake for suppahtime.
We watched the whole scene for a loooong time...the snake getting the fish right where he wanted him so he could devour him, the fish fighting, the snake getting the fish's head in his mouth, the fish fighting, the snake fighting to keep the fish in his mouth, the fish fighting some more.
It was actually quite creepily amazing as you can see in this video.
After this went on for what seemed forever, the snake caught a glimpse of my husband. Just like that, after all of that fighting and work, that nasty snake released the fish and cowardly reatreated.
What about the fish? Well, his fight was not in vain. He happened to still be alive and swam away to freedom!
I'm sure you know where I'm going with this but my mind couldn't help but make the parallels with what Satan tries to do to us and how we are called to keep fighting. The whole snake/fish scene flashed through my mind again as I was reading this entry from the Daily Light.
We recently had a little staycation at a nearby lake. One evening, my hubs was fishing and out of the blue, saw a fish making a ruckus on top of the water. Upon closer look, he realized a snake was escorting the fighting fish to the bank of the lake for suppahtime.
We watched the whole scene for a loooong time...the snake getting the fish right where he wanted him so he could devour him, the fish fighting, the snake getting the fish's head in his mouth, the fish fighting, the snake fighting to keep the fish in his mouth, the fish fighting some more.
It was actually quite creepily amazing as you can see in this video.
After this went on for what seemed forever, the snake caught a glimpse of my husband. Just like that, after all of that fighting and work, that nasty snake released the fish and cowardly reatreated.
What about the fish? Well, his fight was not in vain. He happened to still be alive and swam away to freedom!
I'm sure you know where I'm going with this but my mind couldn't help but make the parallels with what Satan tries to do to us and how we are called to keep fighting. The whole snake/fish scene flashed through my mind again as I was reading this entry from the Daily Light.
I am with thee to save thee.
Shall the prey be taken from the mighty, or the lawful captive delivered? But thus saith the LORD, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee. And all flesh shall know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob. — Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my rightousness.
JER. 15:20. Isa. 49:24 26. Isa. 41:10.
Keep fighting, sisters. Eventually, the enemy WILL retreat. You have all of the strength, protection and help needed in the Lord!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Train Up Tuesday: Where is That "Harvest of Righteousness and Peace"?!
You may know that my husband & I read through "Shepherding a Child's Heart," by Tedd Tripp sometime ago. It was a wonderful book because it's main resource is God's Word and His way of training up a child. It really has provide us with encouragement for shepherding our boys. BUT, let me tell you, sometimes I just wanna throw in the towel! (Sound familiar?)
Even with being consistent and biblical, sometimes, it just seems like you are making no headway in this thing. I know I don't feel alone. I recently was talking to a dear friend who is going through the same struggles, and doubting her "technique" (which seemed biblical, too). I'll share with you what God spoke to me (both through my wonderful husband and through His Word).
1. Don't forget Hebrews 12:11: (ESV) "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." It seems painful to the kid, sure. But it can seem painful for us as parents, too, I think, especially when it seems to not be getting through. But, if we are patient, just as it takes time for fruit to mature, we will see the "harvest" in due time. It WILL be worth it!
2. Don't forget Hebrews 12:11. "Huh? Didn't she JUST say that?" You don't have to scroll back up, I did say it again. ;-) Don't forget that this verse is God's Word! Not only is it His promise, which can be reassuring, but it is His PLAN. The enemy can cause us to doubt God's Word by working against us...like causing us to focus on not seeing the results as soon as we'd like. It can be easy to lose heart and give up on being consistent to the way that God says to raise, correct, discipline, and love our children and opt for the "modern ways", the ways the "psychologists" (Christian or not), society, pop-culture, or even our well meaning church friends suggest that are more relevant today and seem to be "working". But when that happens we are really saying that we don't value His Word as being relevant to us today! If we choose for an easier, more convenient way out to simply modify behavior, we neglect God's plan for us and our children. If we can't trust His Way as being THE way, then, we in effect teach our children that there are some things where our own experience can trump the Word of God! Be careful of the message that you can send your children by doing that.
So, remember to value God's Word and His way for your family. And remember that His path WILL lead to that "harvest" that we are looking for in our children. Don't lose hope! (I KNOW it's easy to!)
Much love,
Ashlie
Even with being consistent and biblical, sometimes, it just seems like you are making no headway in this thing. I know I don't feel alone. I recently was talking to a dear friend who is going through the same struggles, and doubting her "technique" (which seemed biblical, too). I'll share with you what God spoke to me (both through my wonderful husband and through His Word).
1. Don't forget Hebrews 12:11: (ESV) "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." It seems painful to the kid, sure. But it can seem painful for us as parents, too, I think, especially when it seems to not be getting through. But, if we are patient, just as it takes time for fruit to mature, we will see the "harvest" in due time. It WILL be worth it!
2. Don't forget Hebrews 12:11. "Huh? Didn't she JUST say that?" You don't have to scroll back up, I did say it again. ;-) Don't forget that this verse is God's Word! Not only is it His promise, which can be reassuring, but it is His PLAN. The enemy can cause us to doubt God's Word by working against us...like causing us to focus on not seeing the results as soon as we'd like. It can be easy to lose heart and give up on being consistent to the way that God says to raise, correct, discipline, and love our children and opt for the "modern ways", the ways the "psychologists" (Christian or not), society, pop-culture, or even our well meaning church friends suggest that are more relevant today and seem to be "working". But when that happens we are really saying that we don't value His Word as being relevant to us today! If we choose for an easier, more convenient way out to simply modify behavior, we neglect God's plan for us and our children. If we can't trust His Way as being THE way, then, we in effect teach our children that there are some things where our own experience can trump the Word of God! Be careful of the message that you can send your children by doing that.
So, remember to value God's Word and His way for your family. And remember that His path WILL lead to that "harvest" that we are looking for in our children. Don't lose hope! (I KNOW it's easy to!)
Much love,
Ashlie
Monday, July 25, 2011
Marvelous Monday: This mother wears combat boots!
Are you a little weary today, tired of fighting and just want to throw in the towel? If so, here is some timely encouragment to gird up those loins and pull yourself up by the bootstraps from one of our fav readers and guest writers, Melanie (aka Mella Bella). She has previously shared a fitness post here on the the topic of running but today we are delighted that she wanted to share some of what the Lord is doing in her heart.
For the past few months I've felt like God has me on the "fast track" of refinement. Over and again, opportunities arise in which I see two possible paths. One path is laced with grace. I can extend grace and seek unity and peace not only in my actions which are visible, but in my attitude which I could easily camouflage from onlookers.
The other path is paved with "the right to." The right to defend myself, the right to take offense, the right to quit the game, pick up my ball and go home.
Can I just admit that there are moments in my life in which I find it very hard to be a grown up woman? I'm talking about a grown up woman of God. The kind of woman who speaks the truth in love. The kind of woman whose spiritual branches artfully display the Fruit of the Spirit. The kind of woman who is not jealous, sarcastic or snarky. Oh it's easy when life is easy but when someone steps on your toes? Ouch.
But thank the Lord for THE LORD! His presence in the person of the Holy Spirit reveals snapshots of who I yearn to be, of who I CAN be in Him! And I am not willing to be any less. And He's not willing to let me.
But, I'll tell you, it does not come easy for me. I want to be right. I want to defend myself. I want to shout, "You're not playing fair!" and "You just don't understand!" I want to scrunch up my face, turn on my heel and announce, "I quit!"
God has done too much for me to do that to Him and to His body! I must choose to discipline my flesh, like Paul, who wrote, "But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified" (1 Cor 9:27).
So while I may sometimes hesitate before the path of "the right to," and even take a step in that direction, I'm grateful for the Light of the Word revealing the potholes and quicksand down that path.
Paul teaches us that we are running and competing for a prize and we must exercise self-control if we are going to obtain the imperishable crown. He goes on to say that he fights his own flesh, and not as a shadow boxer but as one who disciplines his self-defeating, fleshly desires.
So I'll keep running and I'll keep fighting and if someone steps on my toes, it'll be okay and I'll choose not to take offense because starting now, this mother wears combat boots!
You can read more from Melanie on her blog here.
For the past few months I've felt like God has me on the "fast track" of refinement. Over and again, opportunities arise in which I see two possible paths. One path is laced with grace. I can extend grace and seek unity and peace not only in my actions which are visible, but in my attitude which I could easily camouflage from onlookers.
The other path is paved with "the right to." The right to defend myself, the right to take offense, the right to quit the game, pick up my ball and go home.
Can I just admit that there are moments in my life in which I find it very hard to be a grown up woman? I'm talking about a grown up woman of God. The kind of woman who speaks the truth in love. The kind of woman whose spiritual branches artfully display the Fruit of the Spirit. The kind of woman who is not jealous, sarcastic or snarky. Oh it's easy when life is easy but when someone steps on your toes? Ouch.
But thank the Lord for THE LORD! His presence in the person of the Holy Spirit reveals snapshots of who I yearn to be, of who I CAN be in Him! And I am not willing to be any less. And He's not willing to let me.
But, I'll tell you, it does not come easy for me. I want to be right. I want to defend myself. I want to shout, "You're not playing fair!" and "You just don't understand!" I want to scrunch up my face, turn on my heel and announce, "I quit!"
God has done too much for me to do that to Him and to His body! I must choose to discipline my flesh, like Paul, who wrote, "But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified" (1 Cor 9:27).
So while I may sometimes hesitate before the path of "the right to," and even take a step in that direction, I'm grateful for the Light of the Word revealing the potholes and quicksand down that path.
Paul teaches us that we are running and competing for a prize and we must exercise self-control if we are going to obtain the imperishable crown. He goes on to say that he fights his own flesh, and not as a shadow boxer but as one who disciplines his self-defeating, fleshly desires.
So I'll keep running and I'll keep fighting and if someone steps on my toes, it'll be okay and I'll choose not to take offense because starting now, this mother wears combat boots!
You can read more from Melanie on her blog here.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Friday Catch Up
Hi ladies!
There was sooooo much I wanted to share with you this week and BOTH of my computers went on the blink-wouldn't even power up. D-E-A-D. Big bummer but the situation has been addressed and we're up and running even better than before. I still have so much to share with you but some of it I'll save for next week. In the meantime, here are a few events and giveaways you may want to check out if you are a Charlotte reader.
This Saturday, July 23 several of our new friends (The Charlotte Moms and Belly Elan just to name a couple) will be involved at USA Baby's Fuss Free Travel with Kids Event where Britax is giving away SIX of their B-Agile Strollers. Be sure to check it out especially if you have any roadtrips planned for the remainder of the summer. You are sure to get some great tips and hopefully go home with a great stroller. :)
We have a very special sister that you are going to be hearing more about in the near future but she recently shared something on her blog that I think many of you may want to be a part of this Monday, July 25 if you have older children heading back to school and live near Charlotte. It involves a free $10 gift card to Gap and colorful Carolina Pad notebook. Thank you, Caroline!
If you have younger children (ages 3 and up), you may be interested in the Teddy Bear Picnic on August 6th. This event is hosted by MommyB Knows Best who is partnering with the North American Bear Company and various other companies. MommyB herself is giving away 7 spots and the winners will also receive their very own teddy bear and some other fun treats. Visit here to enter.
If you are a mom desiring to meet moms just like you, you are invited to mom's Heart to Heart Desert and Coffee on Tuesday, August 31. Childcare is provided free of charge but you must register here by August 26. Don't delay! Mark your calendars and get your tickets today.
Also, if you are needing some solid encouragement and are trying to plan your mornings for the fall, there are some great weekly Bible studies being offered by the Women of Central. We'd especially like to invite you to the one for moms, moms Heart to Heart, which will also provide social and fellowship opportunities outside of the study. If you happen to be a working mom, you can still join the study online and we'll keep you posted on the social/fellowship fun. Oh! And I must not forget to mention that there are some amazing giveaways lined up for every single week which you won't want to miss. We'd like to think of it as not just a study but a COMMUNITY of moms just like you! The hardest step is deciding just to check it out. Once you take the plunge, I promise you'll be glad you did. How do I know? Because I was in those shoes four years ago and it was one of the best decisions I ever made.
Happy Friday!
Love ya'll!
Hannah
There was sooooo much I wanted to share with you this week and BOTH of my computers went on the blink-wouldn't even power up. D-E-A-D. Big bummer but the situation has been addressed and we're up and running even better than before. I still have so much to share with you but some of it I'll save for next week. In the meantime, here are a few events and giveaways you may want to check out if you are a Charlotte reader.
This Saturday, July 23 several of our new friends (The Charlotte Moms and Belly Elan just to name a couple) will be involved at USA Baby's Fuss Free Travel with Kids Event where Britax is giving away SIX of their B-Agile Strollers. Be sure to check it out especially if you have any roadtrips planned for the remainder of the summer. You are sure to get some great tips and hopefully go home with a great stroller. :)
We have a very special sister that you are going to be hearing more about in the near future but she recently shared something on her blog that I think many of you may want to be a part of this Monday, July 25 if you have older children heading back to school and live near Charlotte. It involves a free $10 gift card to Gap and colorful Carolina Pad notebook. Thank you, Caroline!
If you have younger children (ages 3 and up), you may be interested in the Teddy Bear Picnic on August 6th. This event is hosted by MommyB Knows Best who is partnering with the North American Bear Company and various other companies. MommyB herself is giving away 7 spots and the winners will also receive their very own teddy bear and some other fun treats. Visit here to enter.
If you are a mom desiring to meet moms just like you, you are invited to mom's Heart to Heart Desert and Coffee on Tuesday, August 31. Childcare is provided free of charge but you must register here by August 26. Don't delay! Mark your calendars and get your tickets today.
Happy Friday!
Love ya'll!
Hannah
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Train Up Tuesday: Boy, Oh Boy, Oh Boy! Some Thrifty Fun for Boys!
Okay, so not just for boys ;-) (I would have been all about these ideas during my tom-boy years....oh wait, I'm STILL a tom-boy!).
I know you've probably seen posts about the free Lowe's Build & Grow Clinics for kids, but you REALLY should take your kiddos to these! They are totally free (we've been to 3 and no money so far)! My two big boys have so far made a windmill putt-putt toy, a 4th of July waving flag stand, and a tow-truck (reminds them of "Mater"). The next class is scheduled for this Saturday (July 23rd, 10am in our area).
I think they are making binoculars, which sounds pretty interesting. When you sign up your kiddo for the first time, get them there early so they can get a free apron and goggles. They also receive a certificate and a badge (for the apron) each time they complete a project. What fun! They do actually sell the Build & Grow kits in the store, which is still good for doing things together, but it's hard to pass up on FREE. So, sign up for a class soon!
The boys are having some great Daddy time, and Daddy is having some great boy time! I'm hoping to coax the boys into using some of their handmade items as gifts for their cousins for birthdays or Christmas. I'm sure we'll be running out of room to put 2 of each of these items.
Image by ParentingPress.com
This next idea I'm so excited to share with you. What kid doesn't love a good fort...rainy day or not?! A great gal-pal of mine thought of me (don't you love when someone "thinks of you" and actually gets it right?!) when she saw this post by Emily at Salt Water Kids on a fort building kit. Basically, it is everything you need to build a sheet fort bundled nicely for gift-giving. Wouldn't that be a most awesome gift to give or receive?! Be sure to check the sidebar on the sight for more fort ideas and some other cool homemade gift-giving ideas. I'm becoming her follower ASAP!
So, with 3 boys, I'm always looking for good, wholesome, thrifty fun. If you have a favorite blog or idea, PLEASE post in the comments!
I know you've probably seen posts about the free Lowe's Build & Grow Clinics for kids, but you REALLY should take your kiddos to these! They are totally free (we've been to 3 and no money so far)! My two big boys have so far made a windmill putt-putt toy, a 4th of July waving flag stand, and a tow-truck (reminds them of "Mater"). The next class is scheduled for this Saturday (July 23rd, 10am in our area).
I think they are making binoculars, which sounds pretty interesting. When you sign up your kiddo for the first time, get them there early so they can get a free apron and goggles. They also receive a certificate and a badge (for the apron) each time they complete a project. What fun! They do actually sell the Build & Grow kits in the store, which is still good for doing things together, but it's hard to pass up on FREE. So, sign up for a class soon!
The boys are having some great Daddy time, and Daddy is having some great boy time! I'm hoping to coax the boys into using some of their handmade items as gifts for their cousins for birthdays or Christmas. I'm sure we'll be running out of room to put 2 of each of these items.
Image by ParentingPress.comSo, with 3 boys, I'm always looking for good, wholesome, thrifty fun. If you have a favorite blog or idea, PLEASE post in the comments!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Marvelous Monday: Smashariffic!
Every time I've driven down a certain road in our town, a sign announcing some new burger place has caught my eye. I'll admit my mind was thinking, "just another burger place." Well, this past Saturday, the fam was in that same area to see the new Pooh movie and had our heart set on grabbing a bite to eat at a tex-mex restaurant. As we were making the trek for some burritos, the burger place caught our attention and we decided to change our course to patronize the new, local business...just so we could say we gave it a whirl. I can't say my expectations were all that high.
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BOY! OH BOY! Am I glad we went with our instinct! "That" burger place which happens to be called SmashBurger is one gigantic partay in your mouth! We LOVED it. The customer service was excellent. The menu was unique for a burger place and included all the items that usually catch my eye on a menu (you know the healthy things...all sorts of burger concoctions, an assortment of fry choices, fried pickles, milkshakes, lettuce wedges-I do LOVE a good lettuce wedge) and the prices were very reasonable. On my next visit, I'm anxious to try the freshly made black bean burger which you can order with any of the other burger concoctions. Oh, and if you ain't feeling beef, the have an assortment of chicken and salad options as well.
I'm here to tell you that all the other burger places in town better up their ante because Smashburger is going to take on this nation by a storm. I'm thinking they really are going to meet up to their mission to "quickly become every city's place for a burger."
You are in luck if you live in Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina (YEEEEHAWWWW), North Dakota, Ohio, Texa or Utah because there is a SmashBurger near you!
All this deliciousness gets even more delicious. Be sure to "like" SmashBurger on Facebook so you can get a coupon for a free entree! Go try it pronto and let us know what you think.
BOY! OH BOY! Am I glad we went with our instinct! "That" burger place which happens to be called SmashBurger is one gigantic partay in your mouth! We LOVED it. The customer service was excellent. The menu was unique for a burger place and included all the items that usually catch my eye on a menu (you know the healthy things...all sorts of burger concoctions, an assortment of fry choices, fried pickles, milkshakes, lettuce wedges-I do LOVE a good lettuce wedge) and the prices were very reasonable. On my next visit, I'm anxious to try the freshly made black bean burger which you can order with any of the other burger concoctions. Oh, and if you ain't feeling beef, the have an assortment of chicken and salad options as well.
I'm here to tell you that all the other burger places in town better up their ante because Smashburger is going to take on this nation by a storm. I'm thinking they really are going to meet up to their mission to "quickly become every city's place for a burger."
You are in luck if you live in Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina (YEEEEHAWWWW), North Dakota, Ohio, Texa or Utah because there is a SmashBurger near you!
All this deliciousness gets even more delicious. Be sure to "like" SmashBurger on Facebook so you can get a coupon for a free entree! Go try it pronto and let us know what you think.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Love is Patient
It has been a long while since I sat down to share what the Lord has been teaching me here at RWAV. I am glad to be back with the Roof With a View audience and hope to bring encouragement in your marriage and life journey today!
There are many great things that God has given us but there is one that sums it all up... LOVE. The greatest commandment is love God and loves others as you love yourself - Matthew 22:36-40. Simple.
I would like to start with the first characteristic we find in 1 Corinthians 13:4 "Love is patient." Patient is the "attitude" of love. It is not in a hurry. It is ready when called on. It is calm.
Apply this today. First in your marriage. Second with your children. Third to every other person who falls into the category of "your neighbor" (hint: that is anyone in your vicinity!). Here are a few questions to ask yourself in the context of each of these relationships:
Love,
Annie
There are many great things that God has given us but there is one that sums it all up... LOVE. The greatest commandment is love God and loves others as you love yourself - Matthew 22:36-40. Simple.
I would like to start with the first characteristic we find in 1 Corinthians 13:4 "Love is patient." Patient is the "attitude" of love. It is not in a hurry. It is ready when called on. It is calm.
Apply this today. First in your marriage. Second with your children. Third to every other person who falls into the category of "your neighbor" (hint: that is anyone in your vicinity!). Here are a few questions to ask yourself in the context of each of these relationships:
1) In my attitude toward _______ am I in a hurry or do I slow down and take time to listen?
2) In my attitude toward _______ am I ready when called on or are they "interrupting" my plans?
3) In my attitude toward _______ am I calm or am I anxious?Don't beat yourself up if you are impatient to those you love. Take a moment and ask the Lord to help "prick" you when you do not have an attitude of love and patience towards God and towards others. We must depend on Him daily and know that we will be at His feet often accepting the forgiveness He has freely given us! God is the great example of love and patience. He is outside out time and He is not in a hurry with anything or anyone!
Love,
Annie
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Thrifty Thursday: All sorts of fun info!
I've recently had the privilege of meeting a great group of local bloggers and women in media. One refreshing commonality among us is we want to work together to keep moms like you and me "in the know" and make one another day to day's routine a little easier while adding a little pizazz to the underpaid yet best job on earth called motherhood.
There's a lot going on out there, and on this Thrifty Thursday, here is what these women want you to know.
Love,
Hannah
There's a lot going on out there, and on this Thrifty Thursday, here is what these women want you to know.
- It's no secret the ladies of the Roof LOVE consignment stores and sales. It seems most of our favs end up clothing our quivers. Now, there is one to clothe US! Green Jeans semi-annual consignment event for women and teens features NEW local boutique fashion and recycled brand name and designer clothing, shoes and accessories from petite to plus sizes, including maternity. In the spring and fall, two sisters host a 3-day shopping event in Lake Norman (Cornelius, NC) and Fort Mill, SC that attracts over 200 consignors and hundreds of shoppers. You can find brands like Seven for all Mankind, Dooney and Burke, Kate Spade, Ferragamo, Milly, Tory Burch,Banana Republic, J.Crew and Ann Taylor LOFT in all sizes. Visit the website here and follow them on Facebook here to stay updated on shopping and consinging for the fall. Green Jeans is also hosting it's Twelve Weeks of Green Jeans giveaway featuring local business artists. They just announced the first week's giveaway winner featuring Celebrate Today but check back here to enter the second week's giveaway.
- Macaroni Kid's Visit Florida campaign is giving away a family travel set including the Britax's brand new baby carrier (retail 129.99) and the new Britax B-Agile stroller (retail $250.00). You have until 9 pm today to enter this giveaway here.
- Speaking of Britax, there is another car seat checking station scheduled for this Friday (weather permitting). See website for details.
- Richelle is hosting a giveaway on her website, The Carolina Clipper, for The Charlotte Summer Pass. This card is designed to keep Charlotte families active this summer by providing twenty fabulous discounts ranging from aquatics to the zoo! Visit here to enter the giveaway
- If you are an expecting mom living in the Charlotte area, you will want to enter Charlotte Mom's fabulous giveaway featuring one big package full of amazing products from green i am, Natural Luxe, USA Baby, Belly Elan, A Drop of Golden Sun, Miss Monkey’s Boutique, EcoMcBaby, and Bella Tunno! Giveaway ends July 21st so visit here to enter now!
Love,
Hannah
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Wednesday in the Word: There's a sermon in that...
A couple of weeks ago, I explained how if my husband had a nickel for everytime I see something and say, "There's a sermon in that!" he would have bookoos of money to support his favorite hobby. Some of these illustrations don't even need words and a picture does more justice. Here is one of my latest visuals, but first, I do need to give a little background.
My sweet one year old baby girl has started a new trend in the crib world. Several times now, I have gone into her room and she has managed to retrieve the "soilage" from her diaper and has been tickled pink to experiment with it as fingerpaint. Perhaps it's to entertain her twin brother who is her biggest fan and loves to egg her on from across the room. The most amazing part is how proud she is and the anticipation on her face that I too will be proud of her. Note the sheet, the crib, the shirt, the smile.
Yes, it's disgusting but, of course, it's hard to be mad at this face. I love this girl and wanted to save her as fast as I could from that nastiness. As an attitude adjustment and I were butting heads during the clean up and sanitizing, I had to stop myself.
He will redeem his soul from...the Pit,
And his life shall see the light.
Behold, God works all these things,
Twice, in fact, three times with a man. Job 33:28-29 NKJV
...he rescued me because he delights in me. 2 Samuel 22:20, NLT
For the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His. 2 Chronicles 16:9
I love that He knows my heart, He loves me, He rescues me and that He gently reminds and quiets me with his love...over and over again. Just a few more reasons that I'm thankful for Jesus. :)
My sweet one year old baby girl has started a new trend in the crib world. Several times now, I have gone into her room and she has managed to retrieve the "soilage" from her diaper and has been tickled pink to experiment with it as fingerpaint. Perhaps it's to entertain her twin brother who is her biggest fan and loves to egg her on from across the room. The most amazing part is how proud she is and the anticipation on her face that I too will be proud of her. Note the sheet, the crib, the shirt, the smile.
Yes, it's disgusting but, of course, it's hard to be mad at this face. I love this girl and wanted to save her as fast as I could from that nastiness. As an attitude adjustment and I were butting heads during the clean up and sanitizing, I had to stop myself.
- How many futile attempts have I made to "please" Lord? (Lots.)
- How many messes have I made? (Lots.)
- How many times has he loved me anyway and rescued me from those messes? (Lots.)
He will redeem his soul from...the Pit,
And his life shall see the light.
Behold, God works all these things,
Twice, in fact, three times with a man. Job 33:28-29 NKJV
...he rescued me because he delights in me. 2 Samuel 22:20, NLT
For the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His. 2 Chronicles 16:9
I love that He knows my heart, He loves me, He rescues me and that He gently reminds and quiets me with his love...over and over again. Just a few more reasons that I'm thankful for Jesus. :)
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Train Up Tuesday: Clean Up, Clean Up! and Check out This Giveaway!
I promise, I'll get to the giveaway soon! FIRST, I have to share a "funny" with you. :) A few weeks ago, in an effort to train my 2 "big" boys (5 & 3) to help with cleaning, during nap time I wrote words and symbols on post-it notes of chores for them to do after nap. Each boy had their own color post-it note. I used words to help the 5 year old learn his reading. I used symbols to help the 3 year old figure out what to do. I took pictures of the notes for what I hoped would be a great idea for Roof readers (yeah, I know, I'm rolling my eyes, too ;-).
Then, the magical moment came. My boys awoke from nap, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed and looked around the living room at the post-its covering walls, tables, windows. It was like CHRISTMAS!!!! I tried to explain what was going on as they looked around the room (note to self: with boys, at least, always explain what is going on before showing ANY pictures....that's why they grow up looking at instruction pictures and not reading directions as adult males). My oldest "got it". He was delighted to spray windows with cleaner and take a rag to wipe it down. He moved pretty well through the room looking for more notes and jobs (and he still asks for me to do this again)....My middle son who I just have to say never fails to unintentionally make me laugh rose to the occasion (of making me laugh, that is). He raced quickly around the room to grab all of HIS post-its...neverminding what they were instructing him to do (I think maybe he wiped down one table leg). I loved it, though. He felt he had really mastered something (I mean he HAD actually cleaned up all those notes!!!). I just smiled, and patted him on the back, and shook my head. Oh well, he'll get the lesson on that another day. Meanwhile, he's been busy playing "trashman" through the house, so I'll take it!
Okay, thanks for bearing with me on my story. That just cracked me up! Now for the "giveaway" part. The whole "teach your child to enjoy cleaning" idea came from my reading "Large Family Logistics," a book I don't actually own but borrowed and bought to give away to one of you guys a while back. Well, head on over to "Life in a Shoe" to learn how you can have SEVERAL chances to enter to win a copy of the book. They are giving away 4 copies across 4 blogs by 4 moms (lots of 4s in there!). And each blog has multiple opportunities to get your name in the hat(s). You only have until Wednesday (July 13) to enter, so stop what you're doing (I mean, after reading this blog entry, naturally) and go enter! ;-)
Hope you have a happy day,
Ashlie
Then, the magical moment came. My boys awoke from nap, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed and looked around the living room at the post-its covering walls, tables, windows. It was like CHRISTMAS!!!! I tried to explain what was going on as they looked around the room (note to self: with boys, at least, always explain what is going on before showing ANY pictures....that's why they grow up looking at instruction pictures and not reading directions as adult males). My oldest "got it". He was delighted to spray windows with cleaner and take a rag to wipe it down. He moved pretty well through the room looking for more notes and jobs (and he still asks for me to do this again)....My middle son who I just have to say never fails to unintentionally make me laugh rose to the occasion (of making me laugh, that is). He raced quickly around the room to grab all of HIS post-its...neverminding what they were instructing him to do (I think maybe he wiped down one table leg). I loved it, though. He felt he had really mastered something (I mean he HAD actually cleaned up all those notes!!!). I just smiled, and patted him on the back, and shook my head. Oh well, he'll get the lesson on that another day. Meanwhile, he's been busy playing "trashman" through the house, so I'll take it!
Okay, thanks for bearing with me on my story. That just cracked me up! Now for the "giveaway" part. The whole "teach your child to enjoy cleaning" idea came from my reading "Large Family Logistics," a book I don't actually own but borrowed and bought to give away to one of you guys a while back. Well, head on over to "Life in a Shoe" to learn how you can have SEVERAL chances to enter to win a copy of the book. They are giving away 4 copies across 4 blogs by 4 moms (lots of 4s in there!). And each blog has multiple opportunities to get your name in the hat(s). You only have until Wednesday (July 13) to enter, so stop what you're doing (I mean, after reading this blog entry, naturally) and go enter! ;-)
Hope you have a happy day,
Ashlie
Monday, July 11, 2011
Elan Card Giveaway Winners
The winners of our Elan Card Giveaway are:
Happy Monday, ya'll!
- April Hunt
- Tiffany
- SouthernCakeQueen
- Melissa Smith
Happy Monday, ya'll!
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Stay at Home Saturday: Savory Smackerel~The Tomato
Mary, Mary how does your garden taste? is our latest Savory Smackerel series where we are sharing some substantial ways to put your garden and local produce stand purchases to some serious use. So far, we've covered the cucumber and the peach. Today, is a fabulous recipe where you can implement the tomato!
For those of you who have tomatoes coming out of your ears and are sick of putting them in salads, on a sandwich or slicing them to eat with a little dash of salt, here is a good recipe for you! I LOVE tomatoes, but I am the only one in my family of 5 who enjoys them, so I don't get to make this recipe too often. Trust me when I say it's good....it's a Paula Deen, so the origin of the recipe speaks for itself:)
For those of you who have tomatoes coming out of your ears and are sick of putting them in salads, on a sandwich or slicing them to eat with a little dash of salt, here is a good recipe for you! I LOVE tomatoes, but I am the only one in my family of 5 who enjoys them, so I don't get to make this recipe too often. Trust me when I say it's good....it's a Paula Deen, so the origin of the recipe speaks for itself:)
Tomato Pie
4 Tomatoes, peeled and sliced
8 to 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/3 Cup chopped green onion
One 9-inch prebaked deep-dish pie shell (the key is to PREBAKE IT!!!)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 Cups grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese combined
1 Cup mayonnaise---not a big fan of this, but it's good in this recipe!
*Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Layer tomato slices, basil and onion in prebaked pie shell. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix together grated cheese and mayonnaise and spread on top of tomatoes. Bake for 30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Happy Saturday!
Love,
Donna
Remember- If you haven't entered our Elan Card giveaway here or told your friends about it, be sure to today because tomorrow is the last day to enter!
Happy Saturday!
Love,
Donna
Remember- If you haven't entered our Elan Card giveaway here or told your friends about it, be sure to today because tomorrow is the last day to enter!
Friday, July 8, 2011
I looove technology, busy week for ladies of the Roof and prayer request
Ladies! We so apologize that there hasn't been much roof action this week as I've been experiencing some technical difficulties-frustration!
However! The ladies of the Roof are busy and we want to make sure you are in "the know."
Remember our three Mompreneurs featured last week? We were sad to find out that Dana of BabyElan{Daily} lost her father the day after we featured her. Please lift Dana up in your prayers if she comes to mind. She is expecting her third child, a sweet baby girl, any day and was unable to travel to be with her family during this difficult time. Our heart goes out to her! Please visit here to express your sympathy.
Also, Catherine (aka Musing Foodie)'s grandmother went to be with Jesus over the last week. Please pray for her sweet family! You can visit here if you'd like to share your love with Catherine.
Giveaway
Since we've had technical difficulties, we are going to extend our giveaway through the weekend. If you haven't entered, visit here to do so now...oh and spread the word! The five winners will be announced on Monday.
However! The ladies of the Roof are busy and we want to make sure you are in "the know."
- Glenda (Wednesday in the Word) is gearing up for a Fall Bible Study with the Women of Central's moms. This isn't just going to be any Bible Study! It's also going to have a special emphasis on outside fellowhsip with some FUN things planned. If you are a mom in Charlotte or simply online somewhere else, please join us. The beauty is it's not just limited to moms that stay at home. Any mom can join us each week on the www! See here for details and to sign up if you are planning to attend in person and need childcare.
- Catherine (Musing Foodie) submitted her award winning Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe as an entry in the Cookies for Kids Cancer sponsored by Stomp, Chomp & Roll. The result? SHE WON SECOND PLACE!!!!! Congratulations, Catherine! They don't call you Musing Foodie for nothin. You can see a write up here.
- Richelle (Carolina Clipper) had an article featured this week in South Charlotte News on the mindset of budgeting and her venture with The Carolina Clipper. It also mentions an upcoming Seminar on July 14 that you may want to attend so be sure to check out the article here and sign up for the seminar here.
Remember our three Mompreneurs featured last week? We were sad to find out that Dana of BabyElan{Daily} lost her father the day after we featured her. Please lift Dana up in your prayers if she comes to mind. She is expecting her third child, a sweet baby girl, any day and was unable to travel to be with her family during this difficult time. Our heart goes out to her! Please visit here to express your sympathy.
Also, Catherine (aka Musing Foodie)'s grandmother went to be with Jesus over the last week. Please pray for her sweet family! You can visit here if you'd like to share your love with Catherine.
Giveaway
Since we've had technical difficulties, we are going to extend our giveaway through the weekend. If you haven't entered, visit here to do so now...oh and spread the word! The five winners will be announced on Monday.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Stay at Home Saturday: Just PEACHY!
On the day God made fruits and vegetables, I'm so glad He decided to include peaches in the mix. They are my favorite fruit and since we're in prime peach season, delicious recipes are flying around kitchens of The Roof. We had to share a few of our favorites...perhaps you need to make a jaunt to your local farmers market or roadside stand and get in on the action!
The first recipe comes from The Musing Foodie, whose husband is a die hard peach cobbler fan. She made this for his birthday recently and it was gone in two days. This particular cobbler recipe (as not all are created equal) has a chewy top crust and when topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, promises to make you swoon. Jump on over to her site if a swooning cobbler is what you're after! She teaches you how to blanch the peaches and use the natural sweetness of the peaches to avoid excess sugar. Two thumbs up for CC's Peach Cobbler!
We now mosey on over to the delicious website What's for Din Din by our friend Donna! Many amazing cooks have contributed to this arsenal of culinary delight and the Deep Dish Peach Pie is not one you'll want to miss! Jackie Kennedy's personal chef made this...with a cream cheese top crust! It's cobbler style as well, so you don't have to be intimidated by a two crust (from scratch) option. You can do this ladies!
When all else fails, sliced peaches over ice cream are fail proof and spectacular as well. When it comes to peaches, it's a win no matter how you fix them.
Stay tuned for more delicious recipes from the women of The Roof as we explore some creative ideas to use the fresh fruit and vegetables that abound this time of year. This Saturday series will keep you coming back for 2nds!
Have a delicious day!
CC and Donna
The first recipe comes from The Musing Foodie, whose husband is a die hard peach cobbler fan. She made this for his birthday recently and it was gone in two days. This particular cobbler recipe (as not all are created equal) has a chewy top crust and when topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, promises to make you swoon. Jump on over to her site if a swooning cobbler is what you're after! She teaches you how to blanch the peaches and use the natural sweetness of the peaches to avoid excess sugar. Two thumbs up for CC's Peach Cobbler!
We now mosey on over to the delicious website What's for Din Din by our friend Donna! Many amazing cooks have contributed to this arsenal of culinary delight and the Deep Dish Peach Pie is not one you'll want to miss! Jackie Kennedy's personal chef made this...with a cream cheese top crust! It's cobbler style as well, so you don't have to be intimidated by a two crust (from scratch) option. You can do this ladies!
When all else fails, sliced peaches over ice cream are fail proof and spectacular as well. When it comes to peaches, it's a win no matter how you fix them.
Stay tuned for more delicious recipes from the women of The Roof as we explore some creative ideas to use the fresh fruit and vegetables that abound this time of year. This Saturday series will keep you coming back for 2nds!
Have a delicious day!
CC and Donna
Friday, July 1, 2011
Mompreneur Trio, Discount and Giveaway wrapped in one!
Happy Friday, ladies! You know how we love Mompreneurs on The Roof, and today, it is my privilege to introduce you to not one...not two...but THREE Mompreneurs. That's right~a team of three, and what a trio they are. I've recently had the privilege of meeting these three and I think you will find both their individual and collective heart for moms, creative energy and vision for teamwork infectious. They are a great example for us women of how much more you can accomplish when you work together!
Nidhie Dhiman is the owner of Belly Elan, a baby boutique in Charlotte's Blakeney area (formerly of Providence Promenade) and has recently launched an online one stop shop for moms everywhere. She loves meeting with parents, parents to be and friends of expecting mommies on a daily basis do help them determine little luxuries and special splurges while ensuring value and meeting Belly Elan's motto, "because having a baby doesn't mean losing your style!" Be sure to visit the website and "like" Belly Elan on Facebook here so you can stay posted on sales, new products and special events. That place is happenin' and there's always something going on!
Dana Blake is the CEO of BabyElan{Daily}, a website and online resource for new parents, parents-to-be, and gift-givers wading through the offerings of today's booming baby industry. BabyElan{Daily} also offers expertise via personal "inbox" delivery to break down the must-have practical luxuries, simple pleasures, green products and fabulous deals for baby, child, and mother {daily}. Dana and Nidhie's individual knowledge of the industry is a huge asset as they collaborate together supporting one another's businesses. Be sure to "like" BabyElan{Daily} on Facebook here so you can be fully up to date with the latest and greatest!
Sarah Masci is a graphic designer whose "creativity is inspired by the essence of childhood and life's little simplicities." She owns a drop of golden sun, a freelance graphic design service featuring paper goods, stationery, wall decor and more. Fellow bloggers, you may especially be interested that she offers web design and blog template services as well! If you like Belly Elan's and BabyElan{Daily}'s logos, look no further! This girl is the designer. Oh and if you visit her Etsy store, you may just find a creation by one of the Roof's original co-founders, Aundrea (aka Zerbert Baby)-smalllll world! Please "like" Sarah and a drop of golden sun on Facebook here so you can follow her many exciting projects--many of them in conjunction with both Nidhie and Dana.
So, one day last summer, these three were at the pool together and came up with a joint venture called the Elan Card. Basically, it is an exclusive card, currently local to the Charlotte area, giving women and mothers of all ages valuable discounts and promotions to restaurants, stores, social venues and places of entertainment. The card works everytime you shop and has no expiration date. You can see the fabulous list of vendors providing discounts and promotions exclusively for Elan Card holders here and you can purchase one for yourself here. Also, be sure to like Elan Card on Facebook here because it is a great way to find out about giveways and promotions that aren't necessarily exclusive to the Elan Card but offered by Elan Card vendors. Isn't this idea so great? I think it should be in every city.
Here is where the fun begins! We have a discount AND a giveaway generously provided by these three.
Discount
Love,
Hannah
 |
| Nidhie Dhiman, Sarah Masci and Dana Blake |
 |
| Photo by Jamie Lea |
Nidhie Dhiman is the owner of Belly Elan, a baby boutique in Charlotte's Blakeney area (formerly of Providence Promenade) and has recently launched an online one stop shop for moms everywhere. She loves meeting with parents, parents to be and friends of expecting mommies on a daily basis do help them determine little luxuries and special splurges while ensuring value and meeting Belly Elan's motto, "because having a baby doesn't mean losing your style!" Be sure to visit the website and "like" Belly Elan on Facebook here so you can stay posted on sales, new products and special events. That place is happenin' and there's always something going on! |
| Photo by Jamie Lea |
Dana Blake is the CEO of BabyElan{Daily}, a website and online resource for new parents, parents-to-be, and gift-givers wading through the offerings of today's booming baby industry. BabyElan{Daily} also offers expertise via personal "inbox" delivery to break down the must-have practical luxuries, simple pleasures, green products and fabulous deals for baby, child, and mother {daily}. Dana and Nidhie's individual knowledge of the industry is a huge asset as they collaborate together supporting one another's businesses. Be sure to "like" BabyElan{Daily} on Facebook here so you can be fully up to date with the latest and greatest! |
| Photo by Jamie Lea |
Sarah Masci is a graphic designer whose "creativity is inspired by the essence of childhood and life's little simplicities." She owns a drop of golden sun, a freelance graphic design service featuring paper goods, stationery, wall decor and more. Fellow bloggers, you may especially be interested that she offers web design and blog template services as well! If you like Belly Elan's and BabyElan{Daily}'s logos, look no further! This girl is the designer. Oh and if you visit her Etsy store, you may just find a creation by one of the Roof's original co-founders, Aundrea (aka Zerbert Baby)-smalllll world! Please "like" Sarah and a drop of golden sun on Facebook here so you can follow her many exciting projects--many of them in conjunction with both Nidhie and Dana.
So, one day last summer, these three were at the pool together and came up with a joint venture called the Elan Card. Basically, it is an exclusive card, currently local to the Charlotte area, giving women and mothers of all ages valuable discounts and promotions to restaurants, stores, social venues and places of entertainment. The card works everytime you shop and has no expiration date. You can see the fabulous list of vendors providing discounts and promotions exclusively for Elan Card holders here and you can purchase one for yourself here. Also, be sure to like Elan Card on Facebook here because it is a great way to find out about giveways and promotions that aren't necessarily exclusive to the Elan Card but offered by Elan Card vendors. Isn't this idea so great? I think it should be in every city.Here is where the fun begins! We have a discount AND a giveaway generously provided by these three.
Discount
- Sarah is offering the ladies of the Roof 15% off anything at a drop of golden sun's Etsy store. Simply enter RWAV15 upon checkout. There are some cuuuute things so get to shopping, ladies. Thank you, Sarah!
- These three are hosting a RWAV Giveaway and providing Elan Cards for FIVE lucky winners! To enter the giveaway, simply leave a comment on this post. For any of the four Facebook pages mentioned above that you "liked," you will get an additional entry, so be sure to let us know if you showed them some Facebook love. Winners will be randomly selected next Friday. Thank you, Elan Card ladies!
Love,
Hannah
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