Jessica's Corner

Giveaway..anyone?!?!

2012-01-25T13:36:00.000-08:00

Don't know about you, but I love giveaways!

My blogging friend, LeAnna has an awesome giveaway over at her blog! I am sure you won't want to miss out...a $20 certificate for Dayspring ;)

Go to her blog and check it out!

Preparations...

2012-01-24T08:16:00.000-08:00

I have been spending ~~some~~ a lot of time this week getting ready for hubby's graduation party. The graduation ceremony and party are on Friday and I am getting soooo excited!

I'll let you have a sneak peek on some of the stuff that's kept me busy this week

We're having a small party after the graduation ceremony at one of our favorite restaurants, so I've been working on thrifty table decor and other little things for the party...as you can see, my ball glass jars have come in handy ;) I love these jars...you can use them for almost anything...endless possibilities!

I am really looking forward to this special party...and I am just so proud of my hubby :) He really is the best...

Handsomeness

2012-01-23T15:57:00.000-08:00

This handsome little guy makes my heart melt! It is impossible to look at this sweet smiling face and not feel so blessed....
blessed to be his mommy, blessed to call him mine...

Have I mentioned I love being a mommy?!?!

Bumba meu Boi

2012-01-19T10:00:00.000-08:00

We live in a old, old town.. it's a small fishing village on the edge of the river. The people that live in our small town are very Catholic and very much into traditions..

This town was the first town my grandparents came as missionaries to in 1970. This is the town my dad's family is from, the place I was born and raised till I was 8 when we moved away to start another church.

One of the many traditions is the "Bumba-meu-Boi" during the Carnival season.. ever since I was a kid, I remember seeing this folkloric event every year.

You can read about Bumba-meu-Boi and Carnival here and here in case you're wondering what it is.

Every evening out in our little town, hundreds of people come together to gather around dancers dressed in several crafted ox costumes. There are usually 6-10 "oxen" and there is always a contest to see who dances best and also has the most colorful and bright ox. They're also out to scare the children and chase after them ;)

The "parade" goes through the whole town with the drummers behind beating their drums and hundreds of people follow it through town...some people (like us) just sit in rocking chair in front of our homes and watch the parade as it passes by...:) Lazy, lazy, huh?!?!

You can see the oxen to your right...

This is the town's main entertainment and it starts in early January and only ends after Carnival which is February 20th this year.

To my amazement, our town is the only one in our state who still has this tradition going. When I saw the parade this week, I was reminded of my childhood days, the parade goes right in front of my grandparents house so we were always able to see it up close. On Tuesday my hubby and son got to experience the Bumba-meu-Boi parade for the first time! I was so glad they were able to see the tradition that has followed me through my childhood days.

I also got a video clip so you can hear the drums and kind of get a picture of what it all sounds like :)

So if you've ever wondered what some of the brazilian people do for entertainment in the evenings, now you know...:)

The rains came down .... and the bugs came out

2012-01-18T11:42:00.000-08:00

That would be the most appropriate song for the rainy season out in the country ...

Just as soon as the rains start, the bugs decide it's time to come out of their hiding places.

Just this week we found this critter in the prince's room (again)...

This scorpion is about as big as my littlest finger...and it causes one a LOT of pain. I was so thankful the prince didn't find it and we could kill it before it hurt someone... we also killed about 10 spiders...no joking...and if you're dying to see a picture of what they look like, just look here and you'll be able to see our regular un-invited visitors. Not to mention the frogs, lizards and bats that show up once in a while... sheesh

Except for the bugs and the laundry taking three whole days to finally get dry, rainy season is not all that bad

The beautiful green and the cool weather are w.o.n.d.e.r.f.u.l for a change...so I guess I can handle the bugs for a while ..

On the good side,

All of our plants are thriving and we've got a huge watermelon vine and some adorable tiny melons coming.. they grow really fast so we are excited about having watermelon from our own yard ...pretty cool!

Then our acerola cherry tree is also loaded with fruit. We've been feasting on fresh juice, smoothies, and just the fruits itself makes a wonderful and healthy snack, can't beat that :)

These are extremely high in vitamin C... 65 times higher than an orange, so they are very good for you...and they're pretty yummy too..
We got in a couple of big batches of the cherries and I used up some and froze the others for future use

And of course, because no post is complete unless there's a pictures of him....

So I am here, enjoying the rainy days... now the critters, I don't really care for, but cooler weather?!?! YES! I will take it ;)

Lil' growing prince

2012-01-12T03:14:00.000-08:00

Look who's 22 months old already?!?! Where has time gone?

Come on out!

2012-01-11T09:12:00.000-08:00

I've noticed that there's been a lot of new comments and new followers join Jessica's Corner so first of all I want to say a big: "Welcome" to the new people....and I think it would be great if you's introduce yourself!

You might be a old follower too, I'd love to "meet" you and get to know you a little bit better.

You already know me, I'm Jessica and this is my blog :) I love chocolate and I am addicted to coke. I also love butterflies!

There ya go....

Something simple, short and sweet...

Not too hard is it?!?!

So start commenting :)

Silent Sunday

2012-01-08T07:35:00.000-08:00

"Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls:

Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation."

Habakkuk 3:17-18

Have a blessed Sunday!

Starting the year off right...

2012-01-04T10:33:00.000-08:00

We decided to start the year taking a day off to relax...we traveled a couple hours to the place where my dad was born and raised... hillbilly land... don't tell my dad I said that ;)
No, really....
The place is g.o.r.g.e.o.u.s....

I find it a little nerve wrecking that the river is right by the house we stayed in...the picture above is from the house's front porch..and I have a very curious toddler, soooo you understand my apprehension. Everything worked out fine though...we watched him constantly and explained to him he was not allowed near the river by himself...shivers... there were alligators on the banks all over...no kidding! Don't you think it's a perfect vacation spot?!?!
In reality we did have fun...expect for the lousy mosquitoes that chewed us up... it IS rainy season, so that was to be expected.

The trip there was quite an adventure itself... the roads are really wide as you will see...

We had to stop several times as the men tried to squeeze the cars past other cars and trucks... ugh...I am glad I wasn't the one driving! I was nervous just watching ...down below to your right is a swamp filled with nice critters...so I wasn't really excited about the possibility of falling in it. On the other side of the road is a jungle so I mustered some courage to hop out of the car to get this picture...aren't you proud of me!?!?
My husband told me I am not a hillbilly girl....thanks a lot, honey!!!

We had quite a time... trying to buy watermelon for cheap... they threw the price way up when they saw my uncle's brand new car.... seriously! Hubby is good at bargaining so he still got some for cheap, cheap...

On the way back home, we got to see the beautiful sunset... it was well worth it all the stickiness, the heat, the mosquito bites...

And I discovered there is a difference between country life and hillbilly country life... I'll definitely take the country life ;)

Playing Catch Up

2012-01-04T05:12:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year...long overdue ;)
This blog has been too long neglected...I apologize!

We're just now kicking back and relaxing from the long and busy holidays! We had a wonderful time though...ate way too much, laughed a lot and just had a lovely time building memories. My siblings were here for two weeks and we really had a blast. The prince got sooo spoiled :) During the two weeks they were here, we shopped together, sang together, had a totally awesome photo shoot and really just enjoyed being together!

Here are my siblings and I ...

And we got family pictures...which are definitely going to get framed sometime soon :)

My siblings are back in the States now, and we're slowly returning to normal schedules... the hubby still has the rest of the week off work, so we're enjoying having him around :) The prince is off his sugar over-load...finally ;) His aunts and uncles spoiled him with candy...way too much candy! He was super hyper...so it's nice to have him back to "normal" again (grin)...

As to New Years resolutions, there are many...just don't know for how long I'll be able to keep 'em up ;) I hope to share some of them with you in the near future, so stay tuned!

Blessings,

This is the life

2011-12-15T15:23:00.000-08:00

I am loving this business of being home more often, having my honey home in the evenings and just really getting to be a home-maker...I feel settled, finally...and right at home.

There really is no sweeter word than HOME!

It may be simple, yet it's home..and this week I have been busy making it cozier..
I "spring cleaned" the entire house, went through every item of clothing, every drawer, had a ton of stuff thrown out, given away...and it feels so awesome to have everything clean and organized!

I made my own version of coffee filters wreaths for our bedroom...

It was a quick craft and super cheap...and we're loving it ;)

I've also been enjoying making meals for my little family, now that we can sit down and eat dinner together every evening...loving this, I really am!!
I am looking forward to trying out new recipes on my two favorite people in the world (contented sigh)..

The hubs started on his new job position this week, it's been hectic and crazy busy for him as he tries to get a hang of the whole business of managing the company's finances, but it's just great that he gets to come home and relax after such a busy day! And...I am just so proud of him :) He's the best!

The prince is growing way too fast... he is talking a lot now, and surprises us with new words every day. It is so much fun to have a small conversation with him, and actually understand what he's saying. I just love being a mommy...

And.. my sibling arrive from the US to spend Christmas with us in just two day...so much to do before then, and we're just getting so excited! I haven't seen them for a year and a half...and I can hardly sleep..because I am sooooooo excited!

This is really the life!

Some free Christmas printables

2011-12-09T08:30:00.000-08:00

The Frugal Homemaker has some sites listed where you can find some free printables to frame and use for Christmas decor! There are some beautiful ones out there. I am sure you will want to check them out. They're beautiful and such a nice compliment to Christmas decorations. There are verses, subway art, and much more there free of charge...ready to be printed out and framed.

I printed out two of them, and I absolutely loved them!

Hop over here and check them out!

Catching Up

2011-12-09T07:01:00.000-08:00

Ahhh, 'tis the busiest season!

This week has been such an emotional week for us. So much going on at the same time...

We wept with dear friends who lost their 6 month old baby daughter in such a tragic and shocking manner. We spent the whole day Saturday with our dear friends, praying with them, helping out wherever needed. It was such a helpless situation, I have never felt sooo helpless before. I know there are no words that we can say that will take the pain and hurt away.. prayers are still being said for the dear family as they grieve the death of their princess.

On, a brighter....MUCH brighter side... the hubby finished school... I am beyond excited!(Now, we just have to wait for graduation on January 27th). In all our 4 years of marriage he's been gone most evening studying, so this is the first time that I know what it's like to have him home in the evenings! It's just awesome!!! I don't know how I survived without him. It's so nice to be able to return to somewhat of a normal schedule for us...We're just thrilled!

Yesterday was the first evening in a loooonnggg time we had ourselves, so we headed out to have fun...go shopping, sight-seeing. It was wonderful...and ever so relaxing!

The prince thought it was awesome that he didn't have to say "good-bye" to daddy!

We saw lots of lights...very pretty...and the prince said it was "pretti"...

One of the stores here in our city went all out and made a cute Christmas village...it was so cute! Inside the store were several different house for Santa...and a choir of "bears" singing...it was very cute and we really enjoyed ourselves.

A nice gentleman offered to get our picture, so we actually have a family picture of our outing :) Not the best, but it will do.

We're just overflowing with gratitude for all the blessings the Lord has given us this week...
the hubby was promoted as manager of the company he works at. We had somewhat expected this to happen, because his boss had already talked to him about the possibility, but we had no clue it would be so soon! We're just thrilled beyond words! He starts his new position on December 15th. He's really excited...and he has a ton on work to do there, organizing and learning so he can manage well. We thank the Lord for this wonderful opportunity he has to put into practice what he's studied.

Thank-you, Lord for your blessing to us! I feel so un-deserving, yet He is ALWAYS faithful!

Growing fast

2011-12-04T11:48:00.000-08:00

Do you remember seeing this picture before???

I took it just a little over one month ago, we had just gotten little Hero and I think I even mentioned he was a good dog..

WAS ...

He's a little over two months old now and is just growing by leaps and bound..and I wish I could ~~send him back to where he came from~~ (clears throat), I really meant... I wish I could get rid of him.

Yes, he's cute...but he's a H.U.G.E mess and nuisance.

You should see the situation my plants are in. They look like they're barely surviving his biting and chewing. (sigh)
He's just getting too big for my taste...and no, he's NOT an inside dog. I never allow him inside! It's bad enough having him outside!

But enough complaints...

I do like it that the prince enjoys having a puppy ;)

"we're buddies, mommy!"

I can't believe how much that pup has grown in just a month! Yikes...
Did I mention that boys are a mess?!?! Wait...you probably already know that!!!

(grin)
Have a happy week!

Gleanings from shopping in a crazy, crazy world.....

2011-12-02T12:13:00.000-08:00

I went shopping today, and this is what I learned:

For some reason, seems like everyone is stressed out these days! I don't know if it's the business of the season, but everywhere you go, you run into stressed out, angry, and rude people.

Thinking about it,

We can do two things; we can be rude back...or we can smile and try to be friendly..

You never know what the person is going though..

the cashier at the supermarket, the waitress, the people standing in the long lines, or cutting in front of you,

you can scowl and them, complain in a loud voice

or you can sweetly smile and wish they a good day...

it's your choice!

Why not bring some sunshine into their lives?

There are enough problems, enough long faces...don't add up to them!

The Bible says we: "are the light of the world"

How are we going to be a light, if we scowl and complain?

So, take the time to make a difference today...

a smile can speak more than a thousand words!

And if you are stressed out, remember this:

Finally December or Already December?!?!

2011-12-01T11:06:00.000-08:00

Happy December!!!! It's hard to believe Christmas is really just around the corner, and the year is already ending!

Our fall decor has all been put away, and out came the Christmas decor. I love Christmas and I love decorating for it :) This year I had an eager little helper to help sort through the boxes of Christmas stuff and "help" decorate! He thought it was so much fun. Last year he was still too little to help, but this year we had a blast decorating our tree.
This year, my awesome hubby got us a real tree! We love it! It's still smallish, but we plan to plant it by our house as soon as Christmas is over! We're just so excited about it!

And our tree smells wonderful!

I absolutely love walking in the house and smelling it!

Happy December!

Moving on

2011-11-28T16:21:00.000-08:00

And life moves on...Thanksgiving is past, already! Unbelievable!

We had an awesome Thanksgiving. We got together with three other missionary families for Thanksgiving. Everything was perfect, and just beautifully decorated.

And the food was scrumptious...

I won't even mention the desserts! Way too yummy!

I didn't get many pictures of our day, unfortunately, so this will have to suffice :) If you are interested in viewing more pictures of our Thanksgiving feast, the Schrocks have some beautiful ones posted on their blog..go take a peek :)

Life continues to be crazy busy...I feel like I am always on the run! The hubby has been extremely busy trying to finish up school, all the last minute papers to turn in are just overwhelming! I find myself swamped as I try to help him out by typing and reading over his work, I can't even imagine how he feels! He's definitely surviving on coffee and very little sleep! I am thankful this will soon end! I am so ready to have my husband back!

The prince is as busy as ever...talking up a storm. We decorated our home for Christmas today, and had so much fun! Pictures to come soon :)

It's been a busy last couple of months.. On Saturday our car got hit by a truck :( I am thankful we're all safe, and only material damage was done.

Sigh...

It's going to be a loooonnnggg week for us!

Many blessings,

So much to be thankful for

2011-11-24T03:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from our home to yours!

I am so thankful for the many blessing this year! God has been so good to us.

Have a blessed day!

Blue Birdies

2011-11-20T12:16:00.000-08:00

The prince's new all time favorite snack is "blue birdies" as he calls them...

In big people language they're called blue berries ;)

Blue berries here have to be imported so they were expensive and hard to come by, but I just recently discovered one store that has delicious frozen blue berries for a very decent price, so we got some and the prince absolutely loved them! This was the first time he tried them but he can eat handfuls of them at a time

It's a healthy and yummy snack for sure ...

He wasn't pleased when I told him all the blue "birdies" were gone...I used them for pancakes :)

I'm going to have to make a trip to the store this week for more of those delicious blue birdies :)

Week in pictures

2011-11-16T07:01:00.000-08:00

This is a crazy, crazy life...the days and weeks are just flying...I am having a hard time believing Thanksgiving is next week and Christmas will be here soon!

Our life just doesn't slow down either, hubby is as busy as ever finishing up school. He's got a ton of papers to turn in as he finishes in less than a month! I'm just so excited! It's going to be GREAT having him around more. The official graduation ceremony is on January 26th, so we still have a ton of stuff to do in order to be ready for it :)

I am so in the mood to decorate for Christmas! I'm counting the days for Thanksgiving, so I can get all the fall decor out and in with the Christmas ones :) Yes, I am impatient at times!

I made a wreath and just put it out to test the lights...ah, so excited and can't wait to hang it up on my door :) I bought a inexpensive green garland and just decided to make my own wreath, I saw some for sale, but the prices were outrageous and I really didn't want to spend that much. This one came out quite cheap, so I'm happy about that :)

We had some wonderful rainy days lately...I generally love rainy days, that is,until we have some unexpected company trying to get away from the rain, and wanting IN the house :( I'm thankful the hubby was home and took care of ~~killing~~ gently removing the tarantula from our porch. We've found 5 of these just during the last 2 weeks :( Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!

And...this is not the worse....On Friday, there was a snake in the prince's room....and there are no pictures of that, I was too busy screaming and running for my life (shivers).

Oh the joys of country life!

We're all still alive and well, though ;)

Then there was family picture day....sigh

Why is it so hard to get a good picture, where everyone at least looks decent?!?

And I only have one kid ... what are we going to do when there's more? It will sure be chaos!

Any one else have the same problem? We had a ton of fun though, and I'm thankful for a sweet friend who was willing to come out at take our pictures :)

I have to add one of my super handsome guys, of course! I am so blessed ;)

Life is just grand...

Family

2011-11-13T17:18:00.000-08:00

Thankful for family and family pictures :)

About Soapin'

2011-11-11T09:41:00.000-08:00

A couple of you readers asked for tips on laundry detergent making when I posted about making my own powerful cleaner and laundry detergent in this post, and I am just finally getting around to posting this! Sorry for the delay, but here's my two cents worth on soapin'.....
I've been re-searching and asking about, and the recipe I work with probably would not work for you living in America :(

Here in our area in Brazil, most people use this for a washing machine:

It's called a "tanquinho" which translated would mean, "little tank". It is not your normal washer, it just beats the clothes, you have to fill it manually, and rinse the clothing separately in a big tub or something of sorts, yeah I know, big pain....but it is what most of the people can afford so it works just fine, and yes, you should be thankful for the convenience of having a washer and dryer :)

Ahem...

All this to say, I use it to mix up my soap....and I don't know if you all have anything like this in the US...It's been a long time since I've been to the good ole' USA, so please correct me if I am wrong in assuming these "tanks" are not available there?!?! I haven't tried mixing the soap by hand, so I can't tell you if it works out or not, I guess you could always try :)

Just a reminder, this recipe makes a whole bunch of soap....around 15 gallons!!!
....Moving on:
Here's what I use for the soap: ( and this was a pain to calculate since everything here is measured differently.)

About 2 quarts of cooking oil (I buy the cheapest one available)
2 quarts of ethyl alcohol (is that available for you guys?!?)
2 lbs of caustic soda
your choice of essential oils
13 gallons of water from the tap

Again, I don't know if these things are available for you, if it is and if you're brave enough to try, go for it :) If you do want to try this recipe out, shoot me an email (alexejesslima at gmail dot com) and I'd be glad to give you the directions and offer help. I recommend that you research online, there are a ton of recipes for detergent out there. You can surely come across one that will work for you! It will definitely save money, and it just feels awesome to be frugal ;) Here and here are the links to two different recipes that I've come across, again I've never tried them, so I don't know how they would work, but I am sure you can find something.... and remember, If at first you don't succeed, try again! Mrs.Long from Treasures From A Shoe Box also has a post about laundry detergent you might want to check out

Thought? Comments? Questions?
I'd love to hear what you think, and your experience in soap making, if you do make your own detergent or try to make it :)

Many blessings,

Silent Sunday

2011-11-06T17:19:00.000-08:00

And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth. Genesis 9:16

A New Best Friend

2011-11-05T07:08:00.000-07:00

Meet Hero....

He's the prince's new best friend! They have so much fun together, whether it's playing or being photographed, they're always so cute together :)

This was another one of those things that daddy said a boy needs...wonder how many more things boys need?!?!?
Hero was a gift to the prince from his grandpa, and I am beginning to like him, he's a pretty good dog. I will be happy as long as he doesn't tear stuff up :)

Life around here has been busy, it just never slows down, does it?!? And to think it's November already!!!! Wowzers! Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner! I've already started some Christmas shopping and I am so anxious to get it all done and out of the way. I love this time of the year.

I've also been terribly busy trying to get some orders done. With Christmas right around the corner, people are ordering gifts and such, so I have much sewing, and needle-working to do in the next couple of weeks.

Sigh....life's good! And...I get to spend Christmas with my sibling who I haven't seen for a year and a half! Oh joy!!! I'm getting super excited, can't you tell?!?!

Have an amazing weekend, you all!

"Cause every kid needs a swing

2011-11-03T07:01:00.000-07:00

Hubby says every kid just needs a swing, so he decided to use his day off work yesterday to make the prince a swing... and work he did! He used an old tire, and some rope that we had laying around to make the swing...

I don't even have to tell you how much the prince enjoyed his new swing! I will let the pictures tell you....:)

He will now swing under the mango tree for hours...he absolutely loves it and mommy loves hearing his giggles as daddy pushes him on the swing!

Mommy & prince both think hubby's the best daddy E.V.E.R....

And, I am married to the most awesome and amazing man on earth, and who just happens to be a pretty wonderful daddy...just ask the prince :)

Rain Drops

2011-10-30T12:49:00.000-07:00

Rain drops from the clouds and onto trees,

Down the tree trunks and off the leaves.

Down a mountain and into a brook,

Past a chipmunk in a nook.

Into a pond, off a log.

On top of a turtle and onto a frog.

Onto roads, onto the grass,

Onto trains and trucks that pass.

On top of bridges, cars, and boats.

Even onto people's coats.

Onto houses and my windowpane.

I just love to watch the drops,

The drips and drops of rain.

(from themothergoosecaboose)

Tommytoes

2011-10-27T18:19:00.000-07:00

What is my son's favorite snack, you might wonder?!?!

Not cookies,
Not chocolate,
Not yogurt,

Tomatoes....

You read right, tomatoes, of all things are his very favorite snack! Whenever I open the fridge door, he runs to ask for "matoes"

What a crazy kid!

At least they're healthy, right?!?!

Irresistible Chocolateness

2011-10-26T18:25:00.000-07:00

I love chocolate....

I just can't resist chocolate and lately I have been just craving chocolate... if you like chocolate as much as I do, there's nothing yummier than this cake!
It's my new all time favorite chocolate cake... the richness of it's flavor and the moistness is just out-of-this-world... I just gained a bunch of pounds eating this stuff....

Seriously awesome!
Want something sinfully chocolate? Give this recipe a try...I am sure your taste buds will love it!

Hershey' Prize Chocolate Cake
1/4 C. Butter
1/4 C. Shortening
2 C. Sugar
1tsp. vanilla
Cream these till light and fluffy...
add and beat 2 eggs.

in a separate bowl sift:
3/4 C. Cocoa
1 3/4 C. Flour
2/4 tsp. baking powder
1/8 tsp. salt
3/4 tsp. baking soda

Add these ingredient to the cream and alternately mixing in 1 3/4 C. Milk. Blend well. Bake in two well greased and floured 9 inch round cake pans. Bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes. Cool for about 10 minutes and remove from pan.

Frosting:
6 Tbsp. butter softened
cream & add:
3/4 C. Cocoa
2 2/3 C. Powdered Sugar
1/3 C.Milk
1 tsp. vanilla

Mix well, spread on cool cake... put another cake on top and cover....

Enjoy!

Is you mouth watering yet?!?! Mine is! I better run and get another slice!

Free as a bird

2011-10-24T15:15:00.000-07:00

I just love the fact that prince is free out in the country! He loves it too! I captured this picture as he was running out on the soccer field just before a rain storm... please excuse the fact that he is only in underwear (blush)... it's his bathing suit, okay?!?!

The expression on his face is priceless! He's just happy to be free...that means out of the house for him :)

Onto more serious business, some of you asked for pointers on soap making... so I will have a special post on how to make the detergent coming soon. Stay tuned!

Have a blessed week!

A few of my favorite things Sunday

2011-10-23T13:15:00.000-07:00

Pretty flowers....

Playing tag with my little prince :)

A nest....and baby birdies soon.... a wonderful opportunity to show prince God's wonderful creation!

Have a blessed week!

Soapin' business and other randoms

2011-10-22T12:38:00.000-07:00

Since I moved out to the country, I've made acquaintance with many people out there that have taught me so much about country living! I am sure thankful for them. There's one lady in particular that is totally awesome. She happens to be one of my aunts and she has it all.....she knows how to make anything. It's been a privilege for me to pick her brain and learn new recipes, new stuff...I just love it!

One of my new learned things, is soap making...this is homemade laundry detergent, it's one of the most awesome products I have ever used...no kidding! Soooo much better than the store bought ones. It's a very concentrated soap, so I use it for deep cleaning. It cleans like nothing else! I use it for white clothing and white sheets, anything white, cleans like a miracle. I also use it for our tile floors and I've never seen them sparkle so much! And the best part, I'm saving money. When I do my monthly grocery shopping, I don't have to buy so many cleaning products anymore. Hubby used to say I spent more on cleaning products than on food...that's because I love to clean....I love the smell of cleaning products ;) This particular homemade detergent smells like eucalyptus which I love too!

This soap is cheap and fairly easy to make, one recipe makes a whole lot.

Gallons and gallons of them.....

Some ladies from church came over to my house and saw the effects of this awesome detergent, so they asked if I'd make them some...
Why not?!?!
I've sold almost all the ones you see in these pictures, and still have some ordered for this week, so I have to make another batch.
I really love this! Being able to make a little extra money for Christmas shopping, right at home! How awesome is that?!?!

Rainy season is definitely in full swing. I just love it!! The colors of the skies are just amazing! Prince loves to play out when it's almost ready to rain....the coolness of the wind and the rain drops falling feel pretty amazing!

Isn't the color of the sky just beautiful?!?! I could sit and look for hours! God's creation is just perfect!
Happy weekend!

Thankful Tuesday 4/10

2011-10-18T07:22:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for the privilege of taking walks with my son...

We now live out at this beautiful place where there's a ton of room for daily nature walks...this road pictured below is right in front of our property and it's just as peaceful as can be...cars are very rare, and the scenery is just beautiful...
The prince and I enjoy daily nature walks around here

We talk about the beautiful scenery, the birds, and we even get to pick some flowers :) I love being able to spend time talking and teaching my little prince about life.

What if you woke up today with only the things you thanked God for yesterday?

What are you thankful for today?!?!

Fall Cuteness

2011-10-17T17:02:00.000-07:00

Today I was able to take the prince's Fall pictures...
yes, I think I went a little overboard but...
Who can resist being "trigger happy" when you have such a cute subject to work with?!?!?

He was such a great sport about the pictures, and I just can't decide which one is my favorite, so I am asking you readers for help!
I need one for a calendar for the month of November, but I am having such a hard time deciding :)

Help, anyone?!?! Which one is your favorite?

From a proud momma hen :)

A Grandma is

2011-10-16T13:15:00.000-07:00

A Grandma is someone who spoils you

and takes care of you when mama's not near.

She's always happy to see you

and brings plenty of hugs and kisses to share.

Helps you when you're down.

Catches you when you fall.

She'll brighten up your day,

even on the stormiest nights.

She'll tuck you in and read you a book,

till your eyes grow heavy and tired.

But soon enough you'll see her again,

with bright eyes and smiles.

(Poem by Valerie Dupont)

Thankful for such a sweet grandma :)

A Tale of Frogs

2011-10-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

I mentioned that there are several nasty critters and creatures living out where we live now.... this is the bad part of country life.

I hate critters.............. with a passion!

The most common one living out there are these:

I can't even begin to tell you how much I hate this things. They're nasty and just around nightfall they starts showing up....tons of them, everywhere. Now I kind of know what the Egyptians back in Bible times went through with all those disgusting creatures around.
Yes, I am very well aware of the fact that they cause no harm, a ton of people have tried convincing me of that to no avail, but they're so ugly and so disgusting. I hate the fact that they hide in things and behind things and scare the life out of you. I've gotten pretty good at seeing them from far away, I always have a spray bottle with some bleach in them (I discovered that bleach makes them hop for their lives)...and I try to keep them out of the house as much as possible. That still leaves some nasty ones to scare me. Just this week I was cleaning something, when two of them jumped on me... I won't tell you how long I screamed bloody murder ;)
My dad says having these creatures around means no snakes are around because snakes eat them....so I guess that's one thing I should be thankful about! I'd rather have frogs than snakes.....any day!

Now that the rains started, we've had some new creatures visit our house. Just Wednesday my hubby killed a huuugggeee tarantula ... I did not grab the camera, I was too busy hyper-ventilating and screaming! Sad, sad, I know!

This is the bad part of country life. I can't wait till our house is all finished and screened in, so we won't have any un-expected visitors around!

(Shivers)

Now onto some sad news, remember I had mentioned we had seven adorable puppies?!?! Four of them, including the one we had picked died from over-heating this week! We're just so sad.... they wandered away from their house while we were away, and when we got back they were dead, we think from the scorching sun :( So, so sad....

Sigh.... but such is country life!

Blessings,

Friday randoms

2011-10-14T09:23:00.000-07:00

Warning: you're about to read a very random post! Just so you don't think I've gone crazy ;)

Whew! What a long week this has been!

We've had a crazy....busy week... so much going on around here.

The most exciting being.... rainy season has started! I love the rainy season. It's my favorite brazilian season. I love watching the color of the sky as the rain approaches, I love hearing the sound of the rain, the coolness it brings, the freshness and the lovely green that's all around these parts.

We got to play in the rain twice this week....it was so much fun! The prince thought it was the funnest thing ever!

I am thankful for the holiday there was this week..... hubby got to spend more time at home with us, and we had a ton of fun hosting our church family at our home. It rained nice and hard so we had a water balloon fight in the rain...adults, kids and all.....what a blast we had!

I haven't been feeling the best this week.... I had to go to the ER on Thursday after some spells of dizziness, nausea and passing out. I am starting to feel some better today, for which I am very thankful!
I do have many fun pictures to post from our busy week, but it will have to wait till the next time! I'm trying to get as much rest as possible with a busy and energetic toddler in tow. I'm thankful for my amazing family who's been most supportive and helpful with the prince! It's nice to be able to relax and rest a bit..

We've got a time change coming tomorrow, so that's going to take some getting used to. I really hate the thought of losing one hour of precious sleep (sigh)...I don't like time changes....

I told you, this was a random post....
Happy, Happy Weekend!

Thankful Tuesday 3/10

2011-10-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

It's time for another thankful tuesdays....

Today I am thankful for............. the privilege of being a mommy!

There is no sweeter gift than being a mother. I am so thankful that God sent us this precious little prince at just the right timing! I could not imagine our lives without him!

What are you thankful for today?

Silent Sunday

2011-10-09T12:18:00.000-07:00

"All things were made by him, and without him nothing was made..."

John 1:3

Happy Sunday!

Where did the prince go?!?!

2011-10-08T09:28:00.000-07:00

I am constantly asking myself, "where did the baby go?" or "where is the prince?"

He's known for taking off as fast as his chunky little legs will take him, and boy, he can can disappear in a second. He loves being a country boy. He loves the open space and the freedom to roam around. It does give mommy a lot more work, to be constantly watching, constantly wondering where he is and what he's doing.

Can you see what I see?!?!

He's definitely all boy....:)

Happy, Happy weekend!

Strawberry Yumminess

2011-10-06T10:15:00.000-07:00

Today I'm enjoying some delicious strawberry jam... it is so good...on fresh bread or toast... almost heavenly...

My mom found out an easy, easy way to make this yumminess....You know how I love easy :)

This is made in a bread machine, and takes but a few things:

strawberries
1 C. Sugar
Juice from 1 lemon

Then we use the jelly setting on her machine... and when the machine beeps, we have this delicious jam ready for use!

Yummmmmmmmm, too yummy for words.... and super easy, which is right down my aisle! Don't you just love modern conveniences?!?!
Happy Thursday!

"School Time"

2011-10-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

Good morning! Hope you all are enjoying this beautiful day!

I've got my house all decorated for fall and I'm beginning to get in the Christmas mood already... call me crazy, but we've been listening to Christmas music and the smell of the scented candles burning make me in the baking goodies mood...I have a lot of new recipes in the "to try" category, so I just might start some early baking :) Pumpkin pie sounds really good too...who says you have to wait till Thanksgiving, right?!?!

Prince is finally in the phase where he can sit down for a while and color, so we have "school time" in the mornings, we don't do it every morning, but a couple of times a week. It's so fun to watch him learning new skills! He can actually "color" now.... when I say color, I mean scribble, but I'm happy that he's learning.

Right now we're working on basic colors and numbers...He has the 1, 2, 3 down, but we're still working on new numbers. His favorite number is three. He will repeat it over and over again! It's so much fun to watch him learn! I'm so thankful that I am blessed to be a stay at home mommy! It's such a gift to be able to spend so much time together with him and teach him new things! I pray that I will never take this privilege for granted! I know many mothers who would love to have this privilege that I have!

Yes, it is tiring at times, and yes, I am human and get stressed out and yes, we could definitely use some more money, but I wouldn't change my job for anything else in the world! No money in the world could be more important that the time I spend with my child! I thank the Lord over and over again for His provision for our family! I am thankful for my hard-working hubby and how hard he works so that I can stay at home and take care of our son! There's nothing better than being a mommy ;)

Thankful Tuesday 2/10

2011-10-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for My Sweet FAMILY....

I am so thankful for my amazing husband and for the four wonderful years we've had together! I'm thankful that he's patient with me and takes me shopping even though he doesn't enjoy shopping much :)

I am thankful for our precious prince and for the joy he's brought to our lives! He brings so much laughter and smiles to our home! And...being a mommy is just the greatest gift ever.....

Thank-you, Lord for my family!

What are you thankful for today?!?!

October already?!

2011-10-03T16:03:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe it's October! I love this time of the year. We don't have fall here in Brazil, but I still enjoy this season and I enjoy decorating for Fall!

I worked on a couple items this year to decorate our house...and I was pleased with the outcome :)

I still have the same wreath made of coffee filters from last year, I just added a couple colorful leaves, and here it is, hanging on my door ;)

I also tried my hand at sewing a bunting...this is my first time making one of these, but it was super easy and I really enjoyed making it.. hubby & the prince liked it a lot, prince loves to point at it and say "pretty, pretty".

And here is my table decor...I made a pumpkin and an apple out of toilet paper rolls, newspaper, cloth and some felt! Super simple and easy, yet I like it a lot!

Happy Fall, everyone!

Sweeter as the days go by

2011-10-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

Today hubby & I celebrate four years of marriage....

Four amazing years, which I would not change for the world! I am so thankful for the wonderful husband God gave me! I'm thankful that he loves me just the way I am, understand me like no one else, makes me laugh every day, and is just the sweetest daddy in the world!

These four years have been truly wonderful and I can say that I love him more today than I ever have!

I love you, babe. A girl couldn't ask for a sweeter husband! I thank God for the privilege of being your wife! Happy Anniversary!

I really love being his wife :) I'm a blessed blessed beyond measure!

Silent Sunday

2011-10-02T12:13:00.000-07:00

There are some amazing giveaways over at Raising 4 Princesses today, head on over there and ENJOY!

Have a blessed Sunday!

Grandma's Easy Banana Bread

2011-09-30T17:36:00.000-07:00

I'm attracted to recipes that say "easy" on them. I seriously try out almost every recipe that is said to be easy. Cooking never was my very favorite thing to do, I have to say that trying new recipes has definitely made me enjoy it more, for which I'm thankful! I try to stay away from the complicated recipes that take many hours of work and expertise, I just appreciate the simple, down-to-earth recipes that can be easily made without much strain and with simple ingredients.

I was so pleased when I came across this marvelous recipe for banana bread. My grandmother adapted this recipe for her use when she lived way up in the Amazon and ingredients were very scarce, and I found the recipe while looking at some old recipe card of my mom's. I have to say it's one of the best banana breads I have ever tasted...and the most wonderful part of it all, it was a breeze to make!

Super duper easy, folks...

Here's what you'll need:
(Yields: 2 loaves)

4 C. flour
2 Tbsp. baking powder
1 1/2 C. sugar
Mix these three ingredients in a bowl.

In the blender, throw in:

2 eggs
1 C. butter or margarine
1 C. milk
2 C. bananas ( I usually freeze bananas that are almost too ripe and use them for banana bread later on).

Blend until smooth, mix with dry ingredients.
(If you're a nut lover and have some extra nuts on hand, this would be the time to mix some in for some scrumptious banana nut bread ;)
Find a cute and eager little helper to lick off the spoon :)

Pour into 2 greased and floured loaf pans. Bake in low oven for 1 hour or until done!

If you have a small family and only want one loaf, it's also super easy to make half a recipe, or you can make both and freeze the other loaf for another day, which is what I did!

It was so yummy and so easy to make! Looking for a way to use up those bananas?!?! Give this recipe a try, I'm sure you'll like it!

Country "Bumpkins"

2011-09-29T19:50:00.000-07:00

You ever wonder what country people do all day?!?! Before I moved out to the country, I often times wondered what I would do all day...(we still don't have phones or internet hooked up out there)..

Well, now I know what country people do all day....it's a busy life, but country life is seriously under-rated! It's awesome, people! I'm lovin' every moment of it..yes, I do feel lonely some times, and I do miss having internet access, but it's all good.. I rarely have time to feel down!

Prince and I bake and cook a lot now days. I think it's really great that I have an eager little helper :)
We make doughnuts together... doughnuts are one of daddy's favorites, so we like to surprise him with fresh doughnuts when he comes home from work...and mommy loves making some extras to freeze for a quick snack some other time!

Prince loves to taste things we're making :) He's a good little helper for sure!

After our cooking, baking and cleaning are all done, there are several more things to do....like pruning the rose bush! Prince enjoys watching mommy prune the branches and then he tries to "prune" the roses off :( At least mommy gets some fresh roses to put in a vase.

(Please excuse the prince's homely attire ...blush..blush..)

After taking care of the plants, there are 7 puppies to take care of. The prince loves them puppies...they're pretty cute, I have to admit.. but they sure make a big mess! They're nine days old today and their eyes are still not opened...I'm thinking they will pretty soon, though! It's soon going to be a lively, lively time with seven playful puppies and a toddler!

This is my favorite one from the bunch...I think he's just adorable!

Isn't he cute?!?!

After the animals are taken care of, it's time to sit for a spell and watch the rain storm come our way! It's just beautiful!! We enjoy such a lovely view from our porch, I drink it in every time I walk out and look around. Lovely, just lovely...

After showers and some more clean-up, Prince sits quietly reading a book while mommy gets supper ready....

After supper, it's time for some FUN! Mommy & prince play peek-a-boo while we anxiously await for daddy's arrival from school!

It's been a long and busy day for the prince and his mommy...it's definitely bed time for the country bumpkins...
So, know you know what keeps these country people occupied....country life really is great!

Thankful Tuesday 1/10

2011-09-27T05:51:00.000-07:00

I find it so hard to be thankful sometimes...yes, I have so much to be thankful for, but it's so much easier to ignore those things and find things to complain about.

With Thanksgiving coming up in a couple of weeks, I was challenged, and would like to challenge you, to take out one day a week for the next 10 weeks to be thankful for!

Won't you join me?

Let's find things we're thankful for... let's count our blessing, name them one by one! When you're tempted to complain, think of one thing you're thankful for, it will make such a difference in your day!

Today, I'm thankful for MY SALVATION!

My salvation is by far the most wonderful thing that has happened to me!

I'm thankful that the God loved me enough to send His only son to die for my sins! There could be no greater gift!

Acts 4:12

What are you thankful for today?!?!
If you decide to join me, please let me know! I'd love to read your posts on thankfulness too!
Have a blessed day!

Laundry Monday

2011-09-26T17:03:00.000-07:00

Mondays are my biggest laundry day for some reason...all the clothes used over the weekend are piled high, and I like to have clean sheets, towels and rugs in the house, so I spend most of the morning laundering. The prince loves it when mommy is doing the laundry....he gets to "help" with the rinsing and after the laundry is almost all done, he gets to play in the water!

What fun he has!

Playing in the water is one of his very favorite things, and in this heat we've been having lately...it's close to marvelous!

Happy Monday!

Silent Silly Sunday...

2011-09-25T12:13:00.000-07:00

Just to make your Sunday a little brighter!!!

Happy Week!

Gardening 101 and other miscellany

2011-09-21T09:27:00.000-07:00

We're having another busy week, and I cant believe September is almost over! That means Thanksgiving and Christmas are just right around the corner! That makes me happy, extremely happy! But, enough about that, focus...focus!

Country life is just swell. I think I'm finally adjusting to the new surroundings and the silence...I think I'm actually beginning to like it now! And the critters don't bother me as much now.
Me and the critters, long story...we don't really like each other, but at least I don't go into a screaming-bloody-murder-fit anymore when I see them or they jump on me! Aren't you proud of me?!?! One of these days I will muster up some courage and go take pictures of them for you dear readers, I know you just can't wait to see them!

Onto a more interesting topic, I'm so excited about my new plants. I'd never planted before, so this is my first time. I started out with cilantro, green onions, and jalapenos. I figured if they would grow okay, I would start planting some more...

Check out my plants:

Green onions

Jalapenos

I'm so pleased that they're thriving and I have to say that I really enjoy weeding, watering and planting! I plan on incrementing some other plants soon...tomatoes, lettuce, kale, green peppers, zuchinni, and others are on my list. Gardening really is fun!

The prince loves "helping"...he has some small little shovels and he enjoys poking around while I work on weeding and watering the plants! He's a great little helper!
He hasn't been feeling the greatest, we've had some rough sleepless nights lately. He has 2 molars coming in, and he got a nasty, nasty cold to top it off, so he's been up coughing all night :(

I'm so ready to see him feeling better and to get a good nights sleep again! And........we have new puppies at the farm. 9 of them, to be exact! Too many puppies, too much noise if you ask me. They were born yesterday morning and they're really cute.The prince was in awe when I took him over to see them. I am sure he will love playing with the them.......and his daddy even said he can keep one of them!

Life's good and busy...and I'm going to take a nap because this business being up all night is really wearing me out. Yes, I am thankful for naps today! ZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Sweetness for the sweetest of all!

2011-09-15T09:17:00.000-07:00

The hubby doesn't have a sweet tooth! Definitely different from me! I love sugar...and I love chocolate. The hubby, prefers food...the filling kind of food. It can be simple, but has to be filling. Me?!?! I'd take chocolate instead...any day!
There are very few desserts that the hubby eats and enjoys...this is one of them,
Meet "Pudim de Leite Condensado", a very popular brazilian dessert.
It's super easy to make and I love to see the smile the hubby has on his face when I make this dessert just for him! It makes it totally worthwhile, even though I think chocolate would be so much better (smile)...

It takes simple, simple ingredients:

1 can sweetened condensed milk
measure in the same can some milk
4 eggs
and 3/4 C.Sugar to caramelize the pan!

1. Beat all the ingredients minus the sugar in blender...

2. In a round "bundt" pan melt the sugar over the stove top. Make sure you spread the caramel on the sides too!

3. Pour in the liquid... and bake for 40-45 minutes on a double broiler. It will look like this when it's done: (see below)

4. Let cool. Once it's cool, carefully (this is the trickiest part) turn it upside down on your serving platter. The "pudim" is soft, so if you're not careful it might break and that would just be too sad :)

The hubby likes his "pudim" cold, so I put it in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving...

So, that's the hubby's favorite dessert and I love spoiling him, so I make this quite often! After all, he deserves to be spoiled, he's the sweetest hubby ever...yes, I'm in love :)

Be Still

2011-09-15T06:28:00.000-07:00

Isn't it amazing that God always gives us a special boost whenever we need it?!?! It's just wonderful to be able to trust Him and lean on his Everlasting arms!

I was reading my Bible this morning and came across this verse:

It was just exactly what I needed to hear today..

Be still...

In our busy and crazy life it's hard to just take some time and be still. Sometimes the world is crumbling around us and it's unbelievably hard to be still. We want to lash out our hurts and woes on other, we want to occupy our minds in something else but God's call is, "Be still and know that I am God."

I read something the other day and it blessed me so much! Someone said, it is "God's past" that provides calm for "our future"! How true this is!
May we seek today, to be still and know that He is God!

Very special prayer request

2011-09-14T18:09:00.000-07:00

Sigh...where do I begin?

It's been one of those weeks...Our family has been bombarded with so many different things...and it seems like the whole world is falling apart.

I have to admit, I am tired and weary, my heart heavy for so many problems.

Yesterday was one of the hardest days, the hubby had to witness in court against someone very close to his family. It was a hard and heartbreaking day for us. I don't like to go into much details, but the hubby's 9 year old niece was molested and there's a lot more complicated things involved in the story. It is just devastating that a child that young has to go through what she's going through! I write this to ask for you to pray for our family. This is just the beginning of what's going to be a hard and long process. Please pray for all the ones involved.

I feel so helpless in this situation. Please pray that the Lord will give me wisdom to minister to the little girl whose life has been broken! Pray for her emotional healing most of all!

I am anxious for the day that sin and sadness will be gone! What a glorious day that will!
We covet your prayers during this trying time.

Random Monday Ramblings...

2011-09-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

This is probably the most random post ever...

We're laying low today, trying to get rested up from a very busy weekend. It's really nice to take it easy and enjoy some precious time with the prince.. I feel bad that the hubby doesn't get to rest. I'm so thankful for his cheerfulness in sacrificing for the prince & I. He's really the most awesome hubby ever! I can't wait till December when he finishes college and graduates! It's going to be wonderful having him home in the evenings!

I'm really blessed with these two awesome guys!!

Abruptly changing the subject, I'm so excited that my favorite season is just around the corner...and no, it's not fall, I live in Brazil therefore no fall for us ;( Rainy season is coming soon! I hope it starts a little sooner than usually, some places around our town had rain and it's amazing the difference in the scenery, the rain made everything so pretty!

See for yourself:

Isn't this tree totally gorgeous?!?! I love it!

Told you this was a random post...maybe I will get inspired soon, but for now, I think I will just sit back and relax!
Happy Monday

A mommy's mushy post...again ;)

2011-09-09T06:40:00.000-07:00

Today is the prince's 18 month birthday and I can't believe how fast this last year and a half has gone by!
Our lives were blessed and made richer with the birth of our precious son! The joy this little prince has brought to us can't even be described.

Prince just a couple of hours old :)

To our precious son,
Words can't describe the awe and the joy you've brought to our lives! You're a gift from God and your daddy and I are so thankful that God sent you to us! You're growing so fast and it's been so fun to see you growing, developing skills, learning new things! We cannot imagine what our lives would be like without you!
We love you, sweet prince!
Happy 18 month birthday ;)
All our love,
Mommy & Daddy

Prince today ;)

In honor of his 18 month birthday, we're celebrating making cookies...what fun we'll have together!
Thank-you, Lord for the privilege of being a mommy!

Country Life & Cashews

2011-09-08T08:26:00.000-07:00

Country life is interesting and busy...
The amount of work there is to do is unbelievable!
We're enjoying our new home and are adjusting quite nicely to the changes around us. I've been able to start a little garden with some chives, peppers, and cilantro. I plan to plant more, but that will take some time to get the beds ready. It's a busy, busy life!

The prince seems to really enjoy the freedom of country living. He loves playing outside and exploring around. He's also so excited about his little room! I walked in there the other day and look at what I found..

I ran to grab the camera, isn't that just too cute?!?! He was laying on his bed reading a book! The photo isn't very good, but I just had to post it ;)

I'm also learning to make things with the fruit that grows around there. We have plenty of lemons and cashews right now. Mango season is coming soon, so I'll be busy freezing and trying out new recipes with them.

Cashews are in full season here.. and to those who didn't know, yes... cashews are a fruit! (Some people think cashews are only nuts)..
Here's a cashew fruit not quite ripe yet..they are bright red when they're ripe and ready.
See the nut hanging?!?! That's where the cashew nuts come from.

We just throw the nut part out because it's highly acid and you have to have a proper system to remove the toxins and acid from the nut before it can be roasted and eaten. Some say the cashew is from the poison ivy family, thus explaining the allergic reaction it can cause.

Here's a ripe cashew fruit without the nut..

I learned to make a typical brazilian dessert named "Doce de Caju".
Here's the cashews boiling in sugar and water...

It's definitely not my favorite fruit, but the hubby likes it, so I make it for him :)

So this has been my life this week. It's really a lovely life :) I think I'm enjoying everything, except for the critters and frogs..ugh! There will still be some post about these yucky critters that live around us...I'm sure you can't wait ;)

Blessings,

Happy Monday and Labor Day!

2011-09-05T05:16:00.000-07:00

Photo credits: Omar Schrock

Hope everyone has a wonderful Labor Day and an amazing week!

Our new place and pictures..

2011-09-04T09:29:00.000-07:00

We're finally settled in our new place, and it feels so good to have things somewhat organized and "normal' again. We're still adjusting, but we're thankful for a smooth move.
The house is small, but it's just fine for our small family. It's only a temporary place until our real house is finished.

Here's the prince's big boy room:

His big boy bed, he's transitioning from crib to this soon ;)

Mommy & Daddy's room.

My fridge and the awesome magnets I got from Sandra :)

Little kitchen cabinet...

The kitchen..I still plan to get curtains hung up on the windows, but haven't gotten it done yet ;)

So, here's our little cozy place for now...I'm still working on the porch, organizing plants, porch chairs, and stuff to put away, so no pictures of our porch yet :)
So for my friends who have been asking for pictures, there you are!
This is where you'll find me from now on :)

Easy kid friendly craft

2011-09-01T16:02:00.000-07:00

Need a quick craft for your kids or Sunday school class? This one will be sure to make them kiddos smile! And it's super easy!!

I'm making this for my Sunday school students this week. I saw it done at camp a couple of months ago and the kids there loved it! Works wonderful for a fruit of the Spirit tree!

My lesson is about how God takes care of us giving us food, and I thought the kids would enjoy taking this apple with the memory verse reference home...

All you need is 2 balloons for each apple, 1 red balloon and 1 green balloon.
Blow up the red balloon to about the size of a good-sized apple and tie it.
With your pointer finger, poke the nozzle of the balloon toward the other side of the balloon.
Grab the nozzle of the balloon tight and twist it a couple of times, tie with the green balloon.
Wrap the green balloon at least twice around to make sure it holds steady.

You then can remove the finger from the middle of the balloon and adjust minor things like squeezing air around from a bulging side so the apple looks nicely shaped!

Super easy, isn't it? And I'm sure the kids will be very pleased with it!
Blessing,

Happy first day of September!

2011-09-01T08:39:00.000-07:00

It's already September?!?! Wow! Hard to believe...I'm so excited to be starting a new month! As I mentioned before, August was a long month, and I'm looking forward to a new month with a clean and fresh start, and a new house too :)

And the thought that Christmas is fast approaching is just too exciting for words! I love Christmas ...and I get to see my siblings who I haven't seen for a whole year! Wohoo! Only 3 months till I see them again! Oh Happiness...!

We've got a little prince turning 18 months old here soon too! Hard to believe he's already a year and a half old! Time just zoomed by! He's being his active self, as usual and really cracks me up with his new words. He learns new words every day, and keeps this mommy entertained with his funny sense of humor :)

I'm so thankful for him!

" But, MOM! You mean I'm not supposed to be picking these flowers?!?!"

We started September with such nice weather, so much cooler than the last couple of weeks, so I hope it will stay this way throughout the month!

The guava tree pictured above and below has just caught my attention. Every time I walk past it I just drink in the beauty. All the leaves had fallen and new ones are growing back on, and it's just beautiful. Every time I look at this tree I am reminded of the mercy and goodness of the Lord!

" Weeping may endure for a night, but JOY cometh in the morning." Psalm 30:5

"It is of the Lord's mercies that me are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning, Great is thy faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23

Happy September!

Small things

2011-08-30T16:59:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had one of those days that you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders?!?!

Today was one of those days for me.

It's actually been a hard month for me. I've had to cope with the death of my cousin, death of a friend, serious problems in the hubby's family, disappointment in people I never would have guessed would have let me down, harsh words spoken against my hubby, and now our moving process...it's been a long and overwhelming month

Most days were okay, but today was one of the hardest days of all.

I cried out to the Lord: "Please give me something today...something special, something to help ease the pain and the weight I'm carrying right now."

In his amazing grace and mercy, he did just that! He's never let me down, and he's promised to always be with me. I've been teaching the little's Sunday school class about how "He cares" and how timely this study has come! As I prepare for the lessons each week, my heart is comforted knowing He really cares about me!
He cares about even the smallest thing!

Isn't it amazing to know that HE cares?!?!

The words to this song have been running through my mind :

Does Jesus care when my heart is pained,
Too deeply for mirth and song,
As the burdens press, and the cares distress
And the way grows weary and long?

Oh yes, He cares, I know He cares,
His heart is touched with my grief;
When the days are weary, the long nights dreary,
I know my Savior cares.

I was so thrilled to receive a sweet unexpected package from my brother. In there was the sweetest letter, and this beautiful souvenir he got me when he was visiting Niagara Falls! Isn't it beautiful! It was just another simple reminder that God cares for me! I received this beautiful gift on a day that I really needed a boost! Amazing that God let this package arrive in the perfect timing!

We serve such an amazing God! I'm so comforted tonight that He cares for me. When the day is long and hard, He cares for me and He cares for you too, my friend!

"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." I Peter 5:7

Changes

2011-08-30T06:43:00.000-07:00

Our family has been experiencing some changes lately...good changes, that is!
We're finally moving out to the country side where we're building our new home. Our home isn't finished yet, but we hope that living close by, we'll be able to work on it more often and get it done sooner.

So my days have been filled with cleaning, packing, moving stuff...we're partly moved already, but still have most of the things to move on Wednesday or Thursday, depending on the day hubby can get off work.

I'm not very good with change...and I've been a little emotional and weepy, but I know we're going to have a wonderful time there, and it will be the best for our family!

Here's what it looks like around our new place...

This beautiful tree can be seen from my front porch.

The view from the kitchen door...

The view of the side of the house, and my clothesline :)

It's beautiful... but very different from what we're used to, so it's going to take some adjusting to go from city life to country life, but we're excited as we start this new chapter in our lives.

As for the prince, he's loving the new adventure! He has a "pool" and he loves being able to play in the water freely! Mommy even joins him in the endeavor to cool off.
I think he's going to like being a country boy!

So join us as we start a new chapter of our lives...I might have to change my blog name to something "countrified" :) What do you think?!?!?!

Picnic Time

2011-08-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

Saturday when the hubby came home from work for the day, we decided to have an impromptu picnic. Out came the disposable cups, plastic plates, and tablecloth. We climbed up to the 3rd story overlook of where we're currently living, and voila....picnic time!

What fun we had! The prince thought it was so much fun to see the cars zooming by on the streets and the people walking by! There was such a nice breeze blowing while we ate our non typical picnic lunch. Well, I guess it would be a typical brazilian picnic...with rice, beans and bifes (like steak)! It was simple, and a spur of the moment thing but we had such a fun time laughing, talking, and just being together.

So grab a tablecloth, some snacks and go have a picnic with your loved ones! It doesn't have to fancy and perfectly planned out, I'm sure your kiddos and hubby will even enjoy the simplest things!
Cherishing the moments,

This child of mine

2011-08-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is another post about my incredibly cute little prince! Go ahead and skip this if you don't want to read all the mushiness and see the many adorable pictures of his little face :)

I think my kid is pretty special, but then what mommy doesn't!?!

The prince is in such a phase of adorableness...and the most difficult, fidgety phase I've ever seen!
He is always on the go!
It really takes a lot of energy to keep up with him. (Not complaining though!)
His attention span is close to zero, so makes it hard to keep him creatively busy...

Today was the first time he actually sat down and "colored" a picture...!!!!
I was getting my lesson ready for Sunday school and he wanted to do something, so therefore I decided to try once again to get him to color. I was soooo delighted when he actually sat down and colored. It was only for about 5 minutes, but hey, that's a start! I can handle more of this!!

Check out his beautiful piece of art!

Yes, it's hanging on the fridge...I seriously couldn't wait for this day to come! I always looked at other mommy's fridges almost falling over with pieces of arts (okay, slight exaggeration there..) and I seriously couldn't wait till I had mine covered with my child's arts :) It's so much fun!

The prince also loves matchbox cars. And I know they say age 3+ but he was given one and it's his very favorite toy for some odd reason. Since he does not put everything in his mouth any more (knock-on-wood), I figured it's okay to let him play with it. Today his grandma gave him another matchbox car and he's just in love with it. He's even taken it to his crib for nap time!

What fun he has with his cars! That's another blessing that will entertain his for a while.
And of course he loves to eat! He will eat anything he can find...even if it's on the floor; to mommy's total disgust. Another reason I have to keep the floors clean at all times! Even when mommy's brownies burn, he thinks they're pretty awesome...

"Yummy! It has SUGAR!"

So mommy's with toddlers, what do you do to keep your little one's mind and hands occupied?!?! Any tips for this phase? What's worked well for your toddler? I'd love to hear your ideas and input on this!
Happy Friday!

A Craft

2011-08-25T06:41:00.000-07:00

I was recently "introduced" to pinterest... (the culprit who introduced me shall remain name-less :)
...and I have to admit that now that I have gotten the "hang" of it, I really enjoy all the ideas there, and have a ton of projects that I'm hoping to do for my new house!

I saw this one, and just fell in love with it. I loved the fact it was super easy to make, and didn't take a long time, it also uses simple things that I can get here, so I was very excited about making this.
Now, I'm not very good at craft and arts, and this was my first try at this, so please bear with me. (This is coming from the girl who flunked art class in high school...no kidding!)

So here's my "piece of art":

Almost finished...

The finished project sitting on my dresser..

I was very pleased with the outcome..although it was a pain to find buttons here and I paid half a fortune for them :( It also was a spur-of-the-moment thing, I hope to make another one with the prince's initial, but I will plan ahead and go into town to get the stuff I need for it. It will be much cheaper, and I will have a lot more options to pick from.

Here's what it looks like on our dresser, I still want to have it hung up, but I have to wait for the hubby to get his drill out :)

So if you're in a mood to do something easy-crafty, this is super fun and super easy....and you can get it done while the kiddos are down for a nap ...I should have done that, I had "help" from a toddler, and it was interesting :)
Have a Blessed day,

My first two days of the week in pictures!

2011-08-23T17:44:00.000-07:00

Howdy! It's been a delightfully refreshing last couple of days for us in our neck of the woods. We've been having amazing weather! It's been awesome...in the 60's and 70's, oh so nice! The prince and I have been sleeping extremely well! Very nice for a change!

This mommy has been enjoying the opportunity to bake every day and snuggle a little longer with the cutest little guy in the planet!

It's so awesome! I love cuddling him...it's a good thing he still enjoys being snuggled, 'cause I'm not about to give my snuggles up, nope, I'm not!

My little cuddle bug trying to stay warm!

And I totally love being a mommy. Truly the best and most rewarding job in the whole universe. Would not change it for anything in this world! Yes, it does have it's hard times, but it's so worth it just to see a little smiling face waiting to be picked up every morning, or a sweet voice saying: "mommy"...too wonderful for words!
I cried today when the prince ran over to where I was washing dishes, and cheerfully handed me his special find! I think he thought it was a flower...it's actually just a small piece of fern, but it meant the world to me! It was the very first time I got a "flower" from the prince, something he hand picked himself. It was just too precious to words!

I have to say it's the prettiest, most special fern I have ever laid my eyes on :)

Yes, I love being a mommy!!!

Happy Saturday!!!!

2011-08-20T06:51:00.000-07:00

After weeks of extremely hot weather, we woke up to a beautiful day!!! I am so excited and just can't get over it! It rained...which is extremely rare for this time of the year and it's 62 degrees! BEAUTIFUL, just PERFECT!

I was reminded of this beautiful verse as I looked out the window this morning...

Hubby is home for the day, and we got to sleep in and have a family cuddle time and "king" of the bed game this morning! I love days like this! I think it's as close to heaven as it can get!

Thank-you Lord for your mercies!!! Than-you for the nice relief from the hot and dry weather! Thank-you for my amazing hubby and baby boy!!!
Happy Saturday to you!

A Heart of Contentment

2011-08-19T15:01:00.000-07:00

I've been dealing lately with contentment. I think we as women tend to be discontented with many things in our lives. We are always wanting more, something better, something nicer, something bigger...Always wishing we had a nicer house, (in my case wishing that the construction of my house would come together sooner), wishing we had nicer furniture, wishing we had air-conditioning (would be nice in this terribly hot weather), and the list goes on and on...plain discontentment.

I have turned to God's word for help in this area...and boy, have I ever felt convicted!

I Timothy 6:8 says: "And having food and raiment let us be therewith content."

Notice, it does not say; be content is you have a nice house, or air-conditioning (ouch), or whatever we're discontent about. It says, having food and raiment ( clothing) let us be content. Sound simple, but oh so hard to grasp, to put into practice.
We have plenty of food around here, and clothing too...so that means I should be content!

What exactly is contentment?!?! My dictionary says:
Con-tent-ment (noun) : The state of being contented (satisfaction), a source of satisfaction.

Another verse yet, Hebrews 13:5 "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."

Once again, it says be content with the things that you have! Very convicting isn't it? I have asked the Lord to forgive me for my discontentment, I want to be content, I want to be a thankful Christian, wife and mommy...I want people to see me as a happy person, not a long faced, complaining christian! So, what has to change???

My heart...

It's a heart issue. It's a decision. A decision that has to be made every day...whether I will be happy and thankful today, or not.

There is one young wife and mommy in our church that has blessed me so much and has been such an encouragement to me as I learn to be content. She is one of the happiest people I know! She always has such a lovely smile on her face. If you would happen to visit her house, you would see that her family doesn't have much.. they live in a tiny, tiny 3 roomed (by three roomed, I mean the house has 1 bedroom, 1 kitchen and living room combined, and a bathroom) house in the back of her mother-in-law's house. They don't have much of anything. Her husband is currently un-employed, and they have two small adorable girls...now put yourself into her situation, I know I would be very worried.. to say the least.
Do you think this took away my dear friend's joy and thankfulness???
Definitely not!
I went to visit her this last week, and I left her house in tears...she encouraged me...she blessed me, she continues to be happy and cheerful although the world around her is falling to the ground. What an example and encouragement she is! My friend and her husband might never be rich, but they're one of the happiest families I have ever met. Their two little ones don't have a nice room, or nice clothing and toys, but they're one of the most contented little children I have ever met...once again reminding us that it's not things that brings happiness...their parents are teaching their children contentment...they will someday make wonderful, happy wives and mommies!

That's definitely what I want for me, that's the legacy I want to leave for my children...I want them to remember me as a happy, contented mommy! I might never get my house as fast or as nice as I want it, I might never get my air-conditioning, but I can still be happy and content because God has already given me so much more than I deserve!

What about you? What have you learned about contentment? Would you care to share?

From a thoughtful and thankful heart,

Cowboy Love

2011-08-17T08:36:00.001-07:00

I have to say that I am in love with the cutest little cowboy...just one of his smiles melts my heart! Such a stinker, he is!

Ain't he as cute as can be?!?!

He's such a good sport about being photographed....sometimes, that is! On this occasion, he was being very photogenic and co-operating with a trigger happy mommy ;) He's a sweetheart for sure! Mommy was happy & the prince was happy...great combo there!

The hours of sitting and posing these poor kids have to bear...no wonder they cringe when they see that camera being pulled out :)

This week has been a miserably hot, kind of kicked back week. It's just way too hot do much on anything. The humidity is below safe levels...making it quite miserable to breathe well. We've kept the prince comfortable with a humidifier and wet towels all through the night. We've been trying to stay as cool as possible...I have to say I have consumed more ~~coke,~~ I mean, soda ..these last few days than I have ever done in my life...it's definitely got to stop, but hey it's one of the only things that makes me feel better ;) And then there is ice cream...and smoothies.. I'm going to turn into a blimp pretty soon...ugh!

Keeping cool,

I (heart) Fridays...

2011-08-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

Fridays have to be one of my favorite days....I love the thought that the weekend is right around the corner and I get to spend some time with the awesome hubby!!!

The week has just zooommmmeeeddd by so fast...Feels like I blinked and it is Friday already..
It's been another busy, busy week...life just doesn't seem to ever slow down

The little prince turned 17 months old on Tuesday and It's so hard for me to believe it! Someone recently asked me something about him when he was a baby, and I seriously could not remember for the life of me...sure made me sad...it's just going toooo fast...and if I can't remember a year later, imagine 20 or 30 years down the road?!?! So sad :(
He's into an unbelievable amount of energy, messing-in-everything kind of fase....keeps mommy always busy and entertained. He babbles and talks a lot...he's started saying phrases now, and I really can't believe how fast he's grown!!!

Isn't he CUTE?!?! (Swoon)

oh come on, I'm not biased, am I??!?!

Changing gears now,
We're trying to get ready for a baby shower tomorrow afternoon, so that has given us a lot of little things to plan and get ready...
Sunday is Father's Day here in Brazil, so we're getting ready for that too...I spent a long time getting together a craft for my Sunday school kiddies to make for the daddas ...it turned out super cute..

See for yourselves....

Adorable, isn't it?!?!?! I think the kiddos will have fun with it!

So looks like we're going to have another busy and sweltering weekend...I'm melting here!!!
Hope you have a wonderful weekend!!!

Happy 25th Anniversary to my parents!!!

2011-08-09T08:48:00.000-07:00

Today is my parent's 25 wedding anniversary! I just want to say, I am so thankful for the Godly parents I have! I thank the Lord they were dedicated to their marriage and for the blessing they are to us!

Happy 25th Anniversary, Mom & Dad!

I love you both, and I'm thankful that you're my parents! I wish you many, many more happy years together. Thank-you for putting up with me and for teaching me the way that I should go...

Your grateful daughter,

My sugar ant

2011-08-08T17:55:00.000-07:00

I have the cutest little sugar ant in my house...well, he's not soo little, but he's definitely a sugar ant :)

His love for sweets and sugar is just incredible...no, he did not take after his mommy :) (silly grin)

If there is candy or sugar around the house, he will be sure to find it! He gets really excited when he goes to grandma's house and she is frosting a cake...

I bet you'll never guess what happens!!!!

Yes, quite a mess... sigh What am I going to do with him?!?!

No wonder he's doing somersaults and jumping off the walls and furniture....I better go contain him :)

A little about my Sunday

2011-08-07T17:24:00.000-07:00

Sundays are always a busy day around here.

You see, I'm a Sunday school teacher...I have the little's class.... I have to say, it's nothing like I expected it to be, and it's challenging, but I love every one of the little ones in my class, and teaching them has definitely taught me a lot.

We have anywhere around 10-15 kids depending on the Sunday. I have some awesome helpers...including my amazing hubby! He's just so good with kids! He teaches once in a while to give me a break...and he's really good!

I have the cutest class in the world :) These kids are just way too cute for their own good...and some of them know it (grin)...they sure know how to make a teacher's heart melt!

It's been a blessing and a privilege to teach these little kids and at the same time a huge challenge. Their attention span is very, very limited, so I have to make the stories very simple, short, and sweet!
Would I like to change my "job" on Sunday's??? Absolutely not!!!
Miss all the smiles? The fun and happy chatter? The beautiful singing? Cuddles and sitting on my lap?
Nope...I don't want to miss any of it...
Truth is, I've fallen in love with these kids....but shhhhhh, don't tell them that :)

It's Saturday??? Already???

2011-08-06T13:13:00.000-07:00

It's Saturday...unbelievable.

Where has the week gone??? We enjoyed such a nice week. We had nice weather this week. It got down to the 60's, and was so nice for a change! Yes, you can be jealous :)

This week was mostly a relaxing and catching up week...I'm so thankful for God's grace through the many trials we face! His grace is amazing!!

I got all caught up on my laundry! Hurrah!!!

We got our shopping done this week too...so that is another blessing! The prince thinks shopping is quite boring. He decided to take a nap during our shopping trip. How he can actually sleep through a loud supermarket is beyond me!

So. after this week's sabbatical, I hope to return to normal life ;)
How was your week been?!?!
Hope you all have a amazing weekend,

Slowing Down

2011-08-02T07:29:00.000-07:00

Whew! What a crazy, crazy, crazy week...I'm glad things are finally slowing down and returning to "normal"...whatever that is!

We finished our VBS on Friday! It went great! We had 95 kids on the last day and 10 kids were saved. We're so thankful for the wonderful time we had. After we finished VBS, we cleaned the church and then had a farewell party to Daniel Bishop, who left on Saturday morning to return to the US.

During the farewell party, we received a saddening phone call that my 22 year old cousin had been killed in a motorcycle accident. We rushed to be with my uncle and family...what a painful, painful time for all of us. The family is devastated with the loss of my dear cousin. It's so hard to believe he's gone. He was my closest cousin and it's just been so hard.

What's even worse....we don't know whether he was saved or not...

Nothing can hurt worse than this...not knowing.

How I wish I could have asked him is he was sure of his salvation!!! The whole family who's saved has been so burdened and devastated...trying to take comfort in something...

If the Lord brings the Duarte family to your mind, please pray for them. We're going out to be with my uncle and his family today...please keep Leonardo & Anaide, my cousin's parents in prayer, and his sibling, Naomi and Luiz as they are grieving the loss of their dear son.

These last few days has left me engrossed in so many thoughts....

to enjoy every minute with loved ones...because we never know when we'll see them again...

To witness and pray for the salvation of our unsaved loved ones... before it's too late!

Do you have unsaved loved one?!?! Are you witnessing and praying for them??? I sure hope so... do it before it's too late...

With a burdened heart,

Crazy for Lemon

2011-07-29T08:03:00.000-07:00

I've had this craving for anything lemon lately....and no, I'm not pregnant!
Just to set things straight :)

Anyways, I ate something at a fair here in Brazil and I loved it. Hubby took me back there again and we could not find the people who sold this again, (sadness)....
so I decided to try to make it on my own....and boy, am I pleased with the turnout!?!?!

It was super easy to make and it tastes yummy... it's kind of like a tart thingy... ummmmmmm

Yummy Lemon Tart

Bottom crust:

2 cups all purpose flour

3 Tablespoons of Sugar

3/4 tsp. salt

1 cup cold butter

Directions:

In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt; cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir until dough forms a ball. Press into the bottom and sides of eight 4" tart pans.. (I did not have tart pans, so I just pressed them into muffin pans, and that worked fine. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes. Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.

Filling:

1 can of sweetened condensed milk

1 cup of heavy table cream

1/2 to 3/4 cup of lemon juice (depends if you want a strong lemon flavor, or a light one)

Beat the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and lemon juice in the blender for about 2 minutes or until well mixed. Let it chill for a couple of minutes in the fridge while the little crusts cool. When the crusts are cooled, spoon the lemon cream stuff on. Garnish with lemon wedges or grated lemon peel. Keep in the fridge until time to serve.

Enjoy!!!

I hope you'll give this recipe a try...it cool and refreshing for a h.o.t day, and from what I hear, many people have been experiencing very hot weather!

Hope everyone is staying cool!!!

Happy, Happy Friday!!!!

Is it Friday yet?!?!

2011-07-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

Vacation Bible School is in full steam...and we're starting to feel it!
Don't get me wrong, I love working with kids and it's such a fun and rewarding job, but it's tiring too! I'm definitely ready for some rest :)

Things are going great, though! We have an amazing team who've been such a blessing and huuuggeee help.
We've been having about 60-70 kids come every day. They are so excited about all the prizes and it's been fun to see them memorizing verses to win some goodies that came all the way from the US.

I've been amazed at how they sit quietly through the lesson! Well, at least most of them do ;)

The group of kids who came to VBS yesterday!

Our amazing workers..(minus one who was sick.)

And like I said, our workers are great. They've been such a big help and we're so thankful for them and for the time they've sacrificed to help out, whether helping keep the kids quiet, handing our papers, cleaning the church and the bathrooms, they've been great and I'm so proud of them!

It's been a fun week...I can't wait to see the fruits of this. I am getting ready for a full Sunday school class this Sunday!! Thank-you all who have been in prayer for us during this week. Your prayers have been fully appreciated!

You can read more about our VBS week here and here.

VBS week

2011-07-26T08:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our first day of Vacation Bible School at church. We had a little over 60 kids come. It was very good, and they were amazingly well behaved! It was fun being able to participate and see their excitement over the prizes and competitions! I am really looking forward to seeing how many will show up today and how it goes.

Our theme is "Running the Race of Life".

The "finish" line ..

The kids coloring and working on their activity book.

Coloring

This little guy was so excited to show me his paper :)

Please pray with us that we will be able to reach many children and their families through this ministry!
We're looking forward to an excellent week at church!!!

2011-07-25T08:30:00.000-07:00

Today I'm so thankful for the perfect weekend we had. Hubby was off work on Saturday so we took the day off and just had a ton of fun. We had a wonderful day just going to different places around town, relaxing, talking, playing with the prince, and eating at our favorite restaurant! Sigh...blissful, blissful...

We really needed that. Hubby hasn't had a vacation for too long and we've got quite a busy week ahead of us with VBS at our church, so it was so nice to relax a while.

Thank-you, Lord for my amazing family! You have been so good to me!!!
Have a wonderful week!

More pictures...

2011-07-21T15:55:00.000-07:00

I am sure you're all tired of seeing pictures, but bear with me...I thought these were too good not to share :)

Today we took Dan Bishop (the young man who is doing his mission internship here in Brazil) up to the Chapada mountains so he could get to see some of the beauty of our country.

It was so nice up there, like always. I love how there's always a nice breeze blowing! Sigh...definitely my favorite thing!

We had a nice picnic lunch by some falls. The prince l.o.v.e.d playing in the freeeeezzziiinnng water...crazy kiddo! Mommy wasn't so courageous :) It was fun to watch him, though!

He reminds me of a bear trying to fish :)

My sweet prince and I

a beaaauuuttiifful tree...breathtaking!

We were sad that daddy couldn't go with us :(

Beautiful scenery on the way to the falls.

I'm very thankful for the beautiful country we live in. I love living here!

Aquarium fun and random musings...

2011-07-20T12:01:00.000-07:00

The little prince got to see our town's aquarium for the first time today. We were out and about and decided to stop and see it. It's really small, but the prince sure enjoyed looking at the fish.

A "pira-putanga" fish.

He was in awe!!

The minnows were definitely his favorite fish! He could have stared at them for hours! It was so cute to watch him try to touch them.

After the aquarium, we went out to explore the old town fish market, which is now a museum. It's painted really bright green as you will see in the next pictures. It was pretty and nice to have a place for the prince to waste his huuggee amount of energy while mommy stood in the shade and enjoyed the pretty scenery.

Doesn't he look so small compared to this huge door?!?!

I'm feeling much better today, so I'm so thankful for that!

These next few days, I am just relaxing and taking it easy, as the doctor ordered, praying and hoping I will be feeling up to par for our church's VBS next week! I'm so excited about our VBS, please be in prayer for that. Pray that we will be able to reach many children and their families during the next week. We're all looking forward to a blessed week.

I hear it's been very warm in the US lately. It's been very hot here too...It's 97.9 here right now, and 20% humidity...quite warm! So, how hot is it in your neck of the woods today?!? It's supposedly our winter here, so no, 97 is not acceptable as winter in my book!

Hope you all are enjoying this nice and warm Wednesday!!!

Caught red-handed

2011-07-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Since I became a mother I've discovered that life with children is anything but boring! Can I get a hearty "amen" from the other mommies out there?!?!

Little prince is always into something.

I recently caught him...red-handed... check out the guilty look on his face!!

"But Mom, it's so fun to dump the trash can and play in it!"

I wonder if girls are different??? I don't remember ever playing in the trash..maybe my memory is failing me.

The little prince sure knows how to make his mommy laugh, and trust me, I have definitely been needing a few laughs. I was in the ER last night...long story. I've got a severe case of mastitis...for some reason that term makes me feel like a cow! Anyways, this momma has been feeling quite miserable, trying to follow the doctors orders and take it easy, kind of hard to do with an active 16 month old! I'm taking antibiotics so I feel a little better today. I'm very thankful for my hubby and my mom who have been so helpful with the prince so mommy can get some rest ;)

Mommy's gift :)

Hope you all are enjoying a blessed day!!

Giveaway

2011-07-15T11:41:00.000-07:00

There's a giveaway over at "A Country Mix"..go check it out!!!

Friday!!!!

2011-07-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

And the week has zoomed by once again...

This Friday has been a laid back day for the prince and I. We've had so much fun playing together. I love listening to him jabber on and on!

He learns new words every day, his recently learned word is "help". He loves to "help". Every time he sees me doing something, he comes over and offers his help. Who can resist that?!!?

We made cookies today.. oh what fun!

My mixer :)

He thinks it tastes good ;)

I'm so thankful for such a sweet, and good looking helper!
He's sure the best!!!

Happy Friday!

Learning about my God

2011-07-14T08:42:00.000-07:00

A couple months ago, I heard about this book called: "What do I know about my God?" My mom even gave me a copy of it, and to my shame, it sat around for a while before I decided to read it. I don't read a lot since I had Josh, and I hate spending my time on books that really are a waste of time.

This book definitely wasn't!

I read it and about a month later, we had a ladies retreat and guess what the theme was???

"What do I know about my God?"

I don't think it was a coincidence. God was trying to get me to take some time out of my busy schedule to really get to know Him!
What a blessing the retreat was, I was encouraged to continue to seek to know God better!

For those who haven't read this book, first of all, you should! It has blessed my life in so many areas! I am so thankful for it! Secondly, it teaches a system of study...on getting to know God, and it's been just a huge blessing to me as I take time to read verses and write them down in their categories on my binder, especially made just for this!

I look forward to my devotional time, where I can take out my binder, my Bible, pens, and read these awesome verses about my God! It's amazing how many verses I have memorized just from writing down the verses and then reading them.

I really can't begin to express how much this has blessed me! Reading verses after verses of our wonderful God just brings so much joy of being a daughter of such a GREAT and ALMIGHTY God!

As you can see on the second picture (my binder), is in Portuguese. I decided to do it in Portuguese because I can use it a lot more with the people here. I've been using it with a friend from church. We get together once a week and read verses and encourage each other, and we've both been so blessed!

It does take some time, but it's sooo worth it!

So, I encourage you today to read, "What do I know about my God". I know it will bless your life richly as you seek to learn more of who our God really is! I know it sure has blessed me, and I just wanted to share this with you as well.

Bless your flower pickin' heart

2011-07-13T07:40:00.000-07:00

I love flowers, all different colors and kinds...

I think the little prince knows I like them! Every time we go "exploring" or on a walk, I point out the beautiful, colorful flowers, and smell them. When I first started doing that, prince thought he was supposed to eat the flower.. oh oh..
....now he knows how to smell them, he takes a whiff and says "ahhh" :)

See our beautiful flower arrangement?!?! We're mighty proud of it... prince and I hand picked them ourselves!

I just got a cute little jar and "arranged" them in while the prince exclaimed, "priti," "priti",
We enjoyed looking at them all day...

To other mommies out there, you don't necessarily have to do fancy things with your kids...do what you can with what you have. You'll find beauty in the most simple things!!

Have a blessed day!!!

Of aunt bites and such...

2011-07-12T07:29:00.000-07:00

Life with my little prince can be so interesting! He's in the phase where his curiosity is just unbelievable.
He investigates every noise, every sounds, e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g..
He falls at least once a day...on these hard concrete floors...it's really a wonder he's not all broken ;)

This week he learned that ants bite...

And hard!

He was playing out in the yard and when we heard him whimper and start crying, we found he was covered

in fire ants! Poor kid! Those ants sure sting like crazy.

I counted over 80 bites on his body. The ants attacked his hands the worse. They were very swollen the first day, and he ran a fever that night :(

The pictures are of the 3rd day...I wish I'd thought to get a picture on the first day...it looked much worse that it looks on these pictures.

I didn't snap some of the inside of his hands, but they are all chewed up too.
I guess he learned his lesson of never to play close to an ant hill!

Yesterday he saw some ants and he immediately stopped and said: "hot", "hot", "hot" ...and proceeded to say; "no, no, hot!!!"

He's a smart little guy :)

My favorite things Friday!

2011-07-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of my favorite things!!!

Being around the most handsome, most loving and lovable man!

Beautiful & Relaxing scenery..sigh

My adorable little toddler...and his sweet jabbery voice!

Roses...aren't they just lovely?!?!

What are your favorite things???
I can think of a ton, but then this post would be looooonnnggg...

I didn't have a picture of coke to post on here, definitely a favorite thing too :)

Have a lovely, lovely day enjoying your favorite things!!!

Our Independence Day in pictures :)

2011-07-07T08:10:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July! We had an awesome time. We had a picnic in the evening with all the american missionaries in Cuiaba! It was a lot of fun....here are some pictures of our evening.

Our hamburgers being grilled!

The food table...yummy!

Table decoration...C.U.T.E!!!

My food!

Sitting around the fire. Yes, I said, fire...it was freezing :)

Fireworks :)

Daddy & Josh doing sparklers...he loved them :) Such FUN!

Many scrumptious desserts...

Table centerpiece made with colored rice and a flag :) Easy and very pretty!

So, that's a little bit of our day! Hope you all had an enjoyable day!!!

Friends

2011-07-04T09:50:00.000-07:00

"A hug is worth a thousand words. A friend is worth more."

"The better part of one's life consists of his friendships." Abraham Lincoln

"Friends have all things in common". (Plato)(In this case, the boys pictured above,
have the love of dirt in common :)

Happy 4th of July!!!

2011-07-03T08:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Independence Day!!!!

Hope all of you have a wonderful day of rest and relaxation as we celebrate our country!!!

God bless the United States of America!

Random musings

2011-06-30T08:34:00.000-07:00

This blog has had a quiet week but my week hasn't been all that quiet! There's always a lot to do around here, and I feel like I can never get everything accomplished! Anyone else feel that way?!?!

My head is still above water...I think :)

We've had some cold days...when I say cold, I think the lowest it got was in the 50's or so...too cold for me! I much rather have some warm, flip flop weather :) I have to admit it was fun getting to sleep in and cuddle with a warm little guy for a while!! Love, love, love the cuddling part!

It's really a beautiful time of the year, although a little dry...some rain would be nice, but not complaining :) I love watching the colorful sunsets, there's just something special about it! I love sunsets...makes me want to sit and just think for a while! It's amazing to see the beautiful things the Creator made for us to enjoy!!

Now changing gears...

I had the privilege to teach the 11-14 year old girls for camp last week. It went very well. I don't have any pictures though, my camera was not charged! Bummer! It was a lot of fun, and I think I've learned some things about teaching! It's definitely different than the age group I'm used to teaching, but I think it went well...for the first time!

This week has been mostly a catching up week. I had loads and loads of laundry to do, a house to re-organize and clean, and now I've been working on new things for my preschooler Sunday school class! Keeps me quite busy!

Then there's also a busy little prince to take care of :) It's my all time favorite pass time (grin)..
He's sure a busy little feller and he's been waking up extra extra extra early lately! (ughhh) Not good, not good.
He's becoming quite the talker! It's fun to hear his happy chatter through the house!!! I have to say that my house is never clean though, there's always toys and snacks on the floor :) Please tell me your is the same way, so I can feel a little better ?!?!?

He loves teasing the cat!

So, that's a little bit of what's going on here on my side of the world! How's your week?!?!
Hope you all have a wonderful rest of the week!

Family

2011-06-24T14:44:00.000-07:00

Families are just the best!! I am so thankful for my little family! There's nothing sweeter in the world than family! I am very grateful for mine...

"Rejoice with your family in the beautiful land of life!"

"You don't choose your family, they are God's gift to you, as you are to them." (Desmond Tutu)

I'm so thankful for God's wonderful gift to me! I'm glad I can call these two guys mine :)

Smiling a lot these days,

Giveaway Winner!!!!

2011-06-24T12:49:00.000-07:00

It's finally time to announce my June giveaway winner!!!

Thank-you all who participated! I really wish all of you could win, but...

Here's our winner! I hope there will be more giveaway soon, so stay tuned :)

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:12Powered by RANDOM.ORG

12.LeAnna said...

I'm a follower of course! This is beautiful!!

June 14, 2011 5:15 AM

Congratulations, LeAnna!!!
Please contact me at alexejesslima at gmail dot com so we can work out the mailing details :)

Well, that's all for now, folks!!!
Happy weekend!!!

Thankful for my cute lil' soldier :)

2011-06-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

Need I say more?!?!

Happy Monday!!

Couple's Outing

2011-06-21T06:43:00.000-07:00

We had a great time during our Couple's outing on Saturday!!! It was a relaxing and fun time. I'm so thankful we were able to go...

My amazing hubby and I

He gave me a dozen red roses ;) Isn't he so sweet??

The couples from our church who attended the outing ;)

It was a lovely, lovely night... we ate a lot, laughed a lot, had a beautiful serenade and just really had a beautiful time together ;)

This is what I'm looking forward to!!

2011-06-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

Every year in June our church has a special couple's outing to celebrate Valentine's Day ( which was last Sunday).
Today is our couple's outing and we're so excited about it! We go to this amazing Churrascaria and we just have a wonderful time!!

Hubby & I on Couple's Outing 2010

And the best part...I get to have my husband to myself for a little bit :) That is so nice...and I am really looking forward to that! Daniel Bishop is babysitting for us! Thank-you, Daniel! I'm sure we will have a most wonderful time ;)
Happy, Happy Saturday!

Babysitting fun!

2011-06-17T08:35:00.000-07:00

My mom and I had the privilege to babysit 5 adorable little ones yesterday! We had 6 little ones total :) It was such fun! Little ones crack me up! They're always saying funny things!

We had a lot of time on our hands, so what's better than laying a blanket under a shady mango tree and having a "picnic"?!?!

What a fun time! We had chips, drinks and read several stories!

The kiddo's picnic :)

The 3 J's...look out they can be quite a handful together :)

All the bigger kiddo's (the baby was asleep)

I seriously love little kids!
I love all the hugs and "Can I sit on your lap?" "Read me a story, please?"
And they can be even more random than that ... B asked me: "Can I smell your earrings?"
What is so important about smelling earrings?!?! I don't know :)

What a fun, fun time! I love babysitting such cuties :)

Simple things

2011-06-16T06:47:00.000-07:00

It's dry, dry, dry season here in Brazil! The rains have stopped and all we have left is withering grass and dust! Lots of dust.
It's definitely not my favorite time of the year, but I am still thankful that there are still flowers :)

The prince and I went on a walk the other day and I was delighted to see this beautiful bougainvillea! Lovely, isn't it?!?!

I love taking the prince for walks. It's wonderful to see the world through his eyes! He's so excited about littlest things! A flower or an insect brings a delighted squeal! It's amazing...oh to have such a delight for simple things!!!

Have a wonderful day!