Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

August 28, 2012

A peek into my day:

Looking for rectangles for a Beyond Layers challenge - and looking for them from old picture files on the computer...


I took these last fall,  when sweet tweener was having her pictures taken...it was such a good opportunity to snag some great texture...and shapes (as it turns out).

I loved the peeling paint, the crumbling stones in this old alley - and then I noticed the sign on the boxes stacked on the other side of the doors ->...
so many questions remained unanswered when I think of what that sign might mean!

 
Here are some vertical styled rectangles...and a horizontal one above and rectanglish crumbled stones around the bottom...and of course sweet tweener...I can't wait for her pictures this year!

























Outside my window...it was cloudy - and so cool for the dog days of summer here in Texas!  I love the rain we've been having lately!

I am thinking...about this school year - 6th grade already!  And so very Tween...

I am thankful...that she shares so much of her heart with me...I am honored...and for fat hummingbirds visiting our feeder every morning...

In the kitchen...just made another batch of laundry soap (recipe here).

I am wearing...a black T with little ruffles across the yoke and a "carpenter" style smokey blue long skirt.

I am creating...an image gallery on my Wordpress site!  I finally figured it out! (Keep checking back to see the progress).

We are going...to visit David over Labor Day weekend; it will be interesting I am sure...

I am wondering...what will happen with the elections this year - illegal immigration, the health care bill, and the ever extending Federal government's reach...

I am reading...the Audiblox manual (a program for correction of all sorts of learning disabilities).

I am hoping...that the Audiblox program will also help Gary's slight TIA issues...

I am looking forward to...field trips, Texas State Fair, and an upcoming "stitching retreat" with the smocking guild!

From the learning room... from an article here...

Are geniuses really only better stewards then the rest of us? 

What would happen if every Christian used the 4 hours daily spent in front of the television a day (more than 126 hours a month!) or the near hour a day the average American surfs the internet and spent two of those hours developing their skill in a particular domain (woodworking, quantum physics, photography) and one hour more on the spiritual disciplines that lead into a deeper relationship with God, (prayer, memorization, Bible meditation, fasting) – only repurposing three hours a day from the five we spend on passive entertainment

Around the house...I finally have all the paper off of the refrigerator and proper "mini" magnetic whiteboards installed inside the kitchen cabinet doors.

A favorite quote for today...

I carry your heart with me; (I carry it in my heart); I am never without it; (anywhere I go you go, my dear)...E. E. Cummings

 One of my favorite things...white T's trimmed in lace...

A few plans for the rest of the week...going to the Birds, Beasts, and Beauty art exhibit on Thursday afternoon...

A Scripture to meditate on from this morning: 

Salvation belongs to the Lord; Your blessing be upon Your people!  Selah...Psalm 3:8

Lectio Divina:
We read the passage slowly: lectio
We meditate on the Word or phrase: meditatio 

A life of beauty is to be like a psalm, and a psalm needs many selahs. Our selahs will allow us to consider and reconsider what is most important. Our selahs will allow us to be refreshed, to receive and take God to heart, soaking in his love. The Voice of the Lord for Elul 4

We talk with God: Oratio
We are silent: Contemplatio - (Selah)

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here
and
Kim Klassen's Beyond Layers here

Simple Woman's Daybook

Today is a different input to "Simple Woman's Daybook" - a list of simple things that are important to me - every day...
Processed with Pioneer Woman’s “Old West” action (adjusted to be less yellow) and one layer of Kim Klassen’s “Reverie” set at colorburn – love the vintage dreamy effect!

There are so many favorite everyday moments!
Each small event, each hour, each little happening
- these are what builds a life -

(Read the rest of this post here)

Simpl Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

August 7th, 2012

A peek into my day...it's all about the tweener - someday she may be embarrassed about the "bedhead"!

Bed head, 3Ds, "chillaxin'" in the recliner, and fancy knee high tennis shoes - it's a tweener life!

Outside my window... it is dawn - I love how the sky lightens gradually, a slow revelation of the beauty of nature...


In the kitchen...Made an incredible mixed melon salsa - a flavor burst in the mouth!  Who knew onions and serrano peppers complemented melons?  And sweet tweener's mint collection came into play, too.

I am wearing...a white sundress to stay cool in!

I am creating...headbands, bracelets, and chokers out of leftover t-shirt knit from working on sweet tweener's T-Shirt quilt.  It is a tweener world.

I am going...to take sweet tweener to the last free summer movie at the Weatherford theater - Madagascar 2 -

I am pondering...how to make today's scripture reading into art...I can sort of "see" it, but I'm wondering...

From the learning room...Setting the schedule for the coming school year - only 3 weeks of summer left!

Around the house...sewing projects, cleaning out the school closet, planning the fall garden.

I am thankful...35 years of marriage {how did the years add up so fast!?} to the same steady, loyal man...

Our photos already have a vintage, faded look without ANY processing!  But on this one I did add Pioneer Woman's "soft and faded" action, because it really added an overall softness...

A favorite quote for today...

Poetry is when an emotion has found its thought and the thought has found words.                                                      Robert Frost

One of my favorite things...compliments from sweet tweener on what I have cooked.

A few plans for the rest of the week...a birthday party overnight at sweet tweener's friend's house, another get together with another friend later in the week, swimming?

A Scripture to meditate on from this morning: 

"Each man will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in the desert and the shadow of a great rock in a thirsty land." Isaiah 32:2

Lectio Divina:
We read the passage slowly: lectio
We meditate on the Word or phrase: meditatio 

We talk with God: oratio
We are silent: contemplatio

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here
and
Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday here

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

July 25, 2012

A peek outside my window:

Playing with photoshop again, trying to get an image to look more painted rather than a photo...

my sweet dh took this picture earlier this spring - looks like the bushes need trimming!

 (mouse over to see the before)

I used "Canvas Magic" from Kim's collection on this image, along with several adjustment layers...play, play, play!

Another image - I am amazed at how photoshop can be used to take a really bad photo and transform it - doesn't that sound like what the Holy Spirit does in our lives!  I am happier with this picture than with the one above...I think I am getting the hang of the procedure for painterly effects, but I definitely need more practice, too!

I used Kim's "Fall in" texture along with several adjustment layers + the kanji brush and Haiku font for the wording.

I am thinking... about how we learn so much better by example rather than by lecture...by being invited to "walk along beside" a person and gaining access to their lives - witnessing the moments strung together and how those moments are embraced or missed...how honest vulnerability is more impacting than something like "do x, y, z for a closer walk with God"...

I am thankful... for sweet tweener's sweet disposition, for the telephone, for airconditioning!

In the kitchen...I made this recipe last night with a pile of tomatoes from the garden and dh loved it (so did I) - Fresh tomato spaghetti sauce. 

I am wearing... A black tank and wind shorts (it is hot in Texas!)

I am creating... a T-shirt quilt out of sweet tweener's old shirts + headbands and bracelets out of the remaining T-shirt scraps...I am enjoying being back in the sewing mode again!

I am going... to the free movies with sweet tweener later this morning...

I am reading... (actually just finished) a book on creativity by a pastor - an interesting thought from here is that we are responsible to use our creativity just as any of the other gifts He has implanted in us.  The book: CREATE: Stop Making Excuses and Start Making Stuff, by Stephen Altrogge.  He covers all types of creativity and offers us all a holy kick in the pants (really!).

From the learning room...Science summer camp online - ROBOTS!  I am so impressed with sweet tweener as after just one lesson she is now putting together her own robots...
 
I am pondering...  a question a friend and I were discussing this week - how the church presents worship and the differences...how some churches worship with freedom yet order...it is intimate with gifts flowing and no different than what one does at home in their private times with the Lord, and then how some churches worship with a different...what?  Goal?  To lead others into worship or instruct/teach the "how"?  It seems less vulnerable, less risky?  Especially in a corporate setting?  Still listening to what He is saying...

One of my favorite things... the charm of clotheslines.

Instead of a scripture meditation, this is from an old children's book we (sweet tweener and I) found this week.  I love these words from God's heart - it is worth reading all the way through as it sums up beautifully the entire Bible(!):

You're looking for answers?

Then here's what to do:

Just turn to the Bible to find what is true,

And listen to everything I say to you.

You won't find a picture of Me in a book.

There isn't one person who knows how I look.

But don't be upset that you can't see My face.

You can look at My work in this beautiful place.

I've been alive since before time began; 

I made the whole world by My very own plan.

I'm as tall as the heavens; I'm as wide as the sea.

But even your hairs are all counted by me.

My voice can be gentle and silent and still,

And also like thunder that roars through the hills.

I sing with the waves and the whistling breeze.

And joining my song are the hills and the trees.

I'm strong as a fortress, a rock, and a shield.

But as gentle as rain falling softly on fields.

When you are unhappy that makes Me feel sad.

I'm filled with great joy when I make your heart glad.

My anger comes slowly and fades like the night.

There's no darkness in Me, just goodness and light.

I live in the world and in heaven above.

I live in the hearts of My people who love.

For I AM the Maker of heaven and earth.

I spoke, and My Word brought all life into birth.

I AM like a mother who comforts your fears

And tenderly wipes away all of your tears.

I AM like a father who wants to provide, 

 to care for your needs and to stay by your side.

I AM the Creator, the first and the last,

I'm God of the present, the future, the past.

I AM the good shepherd, who cares for each lamb.

I AM the Almighty, I AM WHO I AM.

I'll love you forever, whatever you do,

For nothing can separate My love from you.

I've loved everything that I made from the start.

My world and My people I hold in My heart.

Kathleen Long Bostrom

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here 

Beyond Layers here

and Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday here

Simple Woman's Daybook - June 26, 2012

FOR TODAY

June 26, 2012

A peek into my day...

Processed with Kim Klassen Textures Musiclovin, and Ugglove with several adjustment layers and "the King and Queen font".  The flowers are an image of lilacs that Kim gave us to process and have fun with...I looked up the meaning of lilacs, and these purple kind mean "First Love" - so I am reminded of how important keeping our love for Jesus fresh and dynamic and relevant so His presence influences our daily life...

Daisies in the kitchen, processed with several adjustment layers and Kim Klassen's texture "Let Go"

Outside my window... Still green vistas - so much needed rain lately, the grass needs to be mown...

I am thinking...about love: God's love towards us; our love (or struggle with loving) Him; and how these dynamics affect our vertical and horizontal relationships...surely this is part of what He meant when He encouraged us to "work out our salvation with fear and trembling"!

I am thankful...for the ability to read and all sorts of reading material at my fingertips...

In the kitchen...this recipe, (made it for Father's Day recently)

Salted Dulce de Leche Swirled Brownies

I am wearing...the usual uniform:  blue jean capris (with black fringe embellishment at the bottom) and a black short sleeved T with sparkly beads at the neckline...

I am creating...mixed media art pieces with an oriental flare to showcase how the Chinese language has the story of Creation from Genesis embedded in certain characters...astounding and exciting...

I am going...to the movies with sweet tweener this morning.

I am wondering...If "The Message" Bible will be the right Bible for sweet tweener to use on her own...

I am reading...outloud with sweet tweener "Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe-rings" - such a fun summer read!

From the learning room...math fact drills!  Ah, summer learning.

Around the house...sewing, playing with pictures, creating, working through a business course

I am pondering...Why the Lockheed strikers think they will effect the bargaining table?  The company is hiring temporary people, who are hungry to work, for a lot less per hour and with no benefits...this situation is only benefitting the company, so why would they succomb to the demands of the union?

One of my favorite things...cross-stitch patterns...I'll never be able to make all that I like...

A few plans for the rest of the week:  Smocking guild on Thursday am...

A Scripture to meditate on from this morning: 

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.   John 10:10

*sigh* - the difference between life and death here...what sweet tweener needs to know, to act as a filter for all the things she might come across and have to make a choice about...it is good to review my life too, to see where I might need to use this filter in my life, to see where the enemy is trying to creep in...

Lectio Divina:
We read the passage slowly: lectio
We meditate on the Word or phrase: meditatio 

We talk with God: Oratio
We are silent: Contemplatio

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here
and
Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday here

Simple Woman's Daybook - May 22, 2012

FOR TODAY 
 May 22, 2012

A peek into my day...
Photoshop play for Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday - this deer and her fawn live in some woods at the back of our property.  I suspect she is the culprit when my garden gets eaten!  Mouseover the image to see the "before" photoshop play. I used Kim's texture "Waterstained Framed" at difference mode, then copied the picture again and set the picture copy to difference, too.  I do like the graphic artsy look this created.  The original was taken at sunset by dear husband, and he gave it to me to see if I could get the deer to show up better...I wish I had kept an image of the ORIGINAL original! 

Outside my window... Sunshiny, cool morning, with the promise of mid-ninety degree heat by this afternoon.  The air is calm - the entire vista hinting at the lazy days of summer to come...

I am thinking...about how many spaces I have to organize and purge in the house (3!! The office/art studio, my garage stained glass area, and my fabric corner in the master bedroom)

I am thankful...3 things from small ones: 1) curiosity over the ordinary; 2) quick to forgive and find goodness in another; 3) the feel of a small hand gripping mine for strength, courage, love, closeness...

In the kitchen...I made crockpot baked potatoes on Sunday - so delicious and beats the microwave by a mile as far as taste goes!

I am wearing...blue jean capris, white T, and it is time for bare feet!

I am creating... a photoshop word art piece, jewelry from silverware, more work on "Finding Sanctuary" (making a journal to accompany the course) - which is the funnest of the projects so far!

I am going...to the vet this afternoon with the little white dog - she probably needs a steroid shot for allergies to get through the summer.

I am reading..."Hunger Games" outloud for sweet tweener.  We are already on book 3!

I am hoping...to get those 3 areas organized by the first of June!

I am looking forward to...summer!

I am learning...how to use my fancy new dremel tool that dh surprised me with {he's so sweet}

Around the house...a quiet, peaceful, contemplative feel

I am pondering...how counting through the Feasts of the Lord helps to make the days stay longer; that the marking of time can mark our lives so deeply.

A favorite quote for today...

God say to give thanks, to do this in remembrance of Him — because in the remembering to give thanks, it’s our broken places that are re-membered — and we are the ones made whole.   Ann Voskamp in yesterday's posting

One of my favorite things...strong coffee in the morning...

A few plans for the rest of the week:  Smocking guild on Thursday; end of year water party at Love Street Park on Friday!


A Scripture to meditate on from this morning: 

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8 NASB

Lectio Divina:
We read the passage slowly: lectio
We meditate on the Word or phrase: meditatio 
 If "as a man thinketh, so he is" (Proverbs 23:7), then it is doubly important to think on things that pave the way to hope and a good future...this ancient wisdom - whether from Philippians or Proverbs - is popular across the world in business coaching, in all spiritual disciplines, in counseling.  It is popular because it works!  But not as a perscription for soul health in and of itself, but because this discipline, ultimately, leads us into encountering God, engaging Him when His ways seem not to follow the path of goodness and loveliness, and finally being endeared to Him when we wrestle through to find the ultimate good He has ordained.

We talk with God: Oratio
We are silent: Contemplatio

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here
and
Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday here

Simple Woman's Daybook + Texture Tuesday

FOR TODAY 
May 8, 2012

A peek into my day... I was trying to achieve a Renaissance look on a yellow rose bloom photo I took at our local library - they have a little garden out front...
processed with: a levels adjustment
                           a layer of "Renaissance" by Sarah Gardner at multiply
                           2 layers of KK's "Charmed" at multiply
                           1 layer of KK's "Ugg Love" at multiply
I think it does look old and "reanaissancy" ☺

Outside my window...an overcast day.

I am thinking...a lot about "God as Business Coach"

I am thankful...for transportation, for air conditioning, for technology ☺.

In the kitchen...there is a key lime pie just begging to be made!

I am wearing...white T + my favorite denim capris with 3 studs on the bottom of each leg seam

I am creating...another mixed media piece...sisters...the reveal will be at this week's "Sneak Peek" at Studio JRU!

I am going...to take sweet tweener for her 11 year old check-up later this afternoon

I am wondering...what homeschooling will "look like" next year...

I am reading..."Holy Listening", a book on being a spiritual director...sometimes counseling takes that turn...and it is something to keep me sharp and tuned for the counseling arena...

I am hoping...always hoping, for wisdom, direction, sweet tweener's total healing, etc...

I am looking forward to...everything, as "hope" includes the idea of 'waiting in anticipation'

From the learning room... finishing up the 5th grade school year...

Around the house...art is happening!  Sweet tweener used watercolors to make a blue and red gecko...pretty cool!

A favorite quote for today..."Faith has a sister named Hope" - unknown

One of my favorite things...the ease of watercolors!

A few plans for the rest of the week:  Granbury - exploring antique shops with sweet tweener and checking out SHAPE Academy

A Scripture to meditate on from this morning: 

The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, And rescues them. Psalm 34:7 (NASB)

Lectio Divina:
We read the passage slowly: lectio
We meditate on the Word or phrase: meditatio

We talk with God: Oratio
We are silent: Contemplatio

I do love this verse - but today it really spoke to me that not only does He encamp around me, but He also rescues me...is this a rescue from a problem that happened before I feared Him, before He camped around me?  The image of His encircling me makes me think nothing can come through Him to touch me, to harm me...but then it says "AND He rescues me (them)" - He protects AND rescues...but why do I need rescuing when He is the Protector?  It is stunning to realize I still need rescuing...from myself , no doubt!  A rescue from mindsets that have been entrenched from before I knew Him...perhaps even from basic fears, besetting sins, perceptions...this Old Testament passage makes a good place to refer people when they need convincing that inner healing continues after salvation, in fact, He pursues this inner healing!  I love how He always reveals treasures - both old and new - in His Word...I feel specially embraced by Him this morning...

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here
and
Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday here

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY 

A peek into my day...peace and relaxation!

Taken on the Clark Garden field trip - there is a place in our yard that looks like this; I love the bench, I want the bench!

Outside my window... Trees!  I love mature trees, and I love their fallen leaves in the fall -

I am thinking...about asking for a Dremel tool for Mother's Day...I really do want one!

I am thankful...3 things flat:  1) tortillas - for wrapping up breakfast; 2) flat stones for skipping; 3) flat irons for when sweet tweener wants to straighten those beautiful curls.

In the kitchen...orange chicken and rice for supper tonight!

I am wearing...denim capris and a short sleeved black tee with sparkles and pleats along the neckline.

I am creating...a pair of girls in mixed media - a light piece - a companion to "Arise & Sing"

I am going...to Granbury tomorrow with sweet tweener

I am reading..."Holy Listening" - about the art of Spiritual Direction

I am hoping...to get a fence around my garden!

I am looking forward to...the future!?! It has been a long time, I think, since I have felt that way...

From the learning room...feeling the downward slide towards the end of the school year - yet anticipating school through the summer!

Around the house...more organization = more time

I am pondering (contemplating?)...stillness, simplicity, sanctuary

A favorite quote for today...

Within you there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.

~Hermann Hesse

One of my favorite things...simplicity around me

A few plans for the rest of the week:  CASA play on Friday - the last CASA field trip of the year : (.

A Scripture to meditate on from this morning:  From Malachi, Chapter 3...

16Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name.

17“They will be mine,” says the Lord Almighty, “in the day when I make up my treasured possession.^a

Lectio Divina:
We read the passage slowly: lectio
We meditate on the Word or phrase: meditatio

We talk with God: Oratio
We are silent: Contemplatio

            I am contemplating the title He calls us, "treasured possession" - I wonder how I would behave, 
            how my emotions would be balanced, if I truly believed that title...


Diary of 5

I am seeing...trees fully leafed out - spreading branches as if trying to capture sunrays - creating the refreshing shade underneath their full arms.

I am hearing...Birds chirping, squirrels scolding

I am smelling...fresh air - it has such a clean smell this morning!

I tasted...A sausage biscuit from my gentle giant of an adult son...

I am feeling...purposeful.

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here

Simple Womans Daybook + Texture Tuesday

A peek into my day...for processing details click here...

At Clark Gardens on Friday's field trip - Angel and Sophia

FOR TODAY - April 24, 2012

Outside my window... sunshine, green grass - earth is full of lush hope, that new life brings...

I am thinking...about life changes, tweener having a birthday this Saturday!

In the kitchen...red velvet cupcakes for sweet tweener's special day...

I am wearing...blue jeans, white button down shirt, and a black and white floral print sweater.

I am creating...pathways for sweet tweener's success (boundaries, new opportunities, encouragement)

I am wondering...how to "make the most of the days" (from Ephesians 5)

I am reading...a book about sensory processing issues...

I am hoping...for more personal growth throughout the year.

I am looking forward to...summer!

Around the house...more organization - cleaning out curriculum...space!

I am pondering...directions, God's purpose and leadings...

A favorite quote for today...rOne’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things – Henry Miller


One of my favorite things...vintage silverware, vintage dishes, vintage towels and table scarves.

A few plans for the rest of the week: a sit and sew with the smocking guild...


A Scripture to meditate on from this morning: 

You are to come to the place where ADONAI your God will put his name....which is where he will live (Deuteronomy 12:5)

Lectio Divina:
We read the passage slowly: lectio
We meditate on the Word or phrase: meditatio

We talk with God: Oratio
We are silent: Contemplatio

I think about how God places His name on our being, and when we receive Him, He lives in our hearts - and here He invites us to come to the place where He puts His name - an invitation to become comfortable, to come home to, our true self...and He wants this so intensely, He placed the encouragement to come to Him, come to where He is living, come into His Presence - in our own hearts and souls.  And I wonder how that might change us, our perceptions, the perspective from which we speak and act - if we really understood how His Presence is right here, in me, right now...

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here
 and
Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday here

Simple Daybook - April 19, 2012 + Texture Tuesday

FOR TODAY 

Close-up of the next wave of Texas Wildflowers - Antelope Horn comes to maturity just as bluebonnets are waning.  The Antelope Horn is really a softball sized mass of these beautiful lime-green flowers with white stamens and deep purple centers.  To the left of the full faced bloom is a flower bud - I love the lavender tinged star shape!  These are gorgeous and fragrant

Full view of the flower globe - processed with Kim's Texture "Now" with an "overlay" blend mode.

Outside my window... crisp clear air, stunning blue sky, the glory of the sun - antelope horns sending up a sweet, thick scent...

I am thinking...about how to keep the bugs from eating my vegetable garden.

I am thankful...3 things square: 1) abundant paper (8 1/2 by 11 is close to square! ; 2)  Raised garden beds (4' square); 3) a square book about children during the renaissance from the library {smiles}

In the kitchen...accumulating gluten-free recipes - tweener seems to be sensitive (I am finally figuring out!)

I am wearing...jeans (what else?!?) and a 3/4 sleeve black knit top.  My hair is pulled back in a loose ponytail.

I am creating...a list of ideas that are coming:  creating a path of beautiful womanhood for sweet tweener...

I am wondering...how to best keep a calendar to schedule my online pursuits, Angel's writing, and my own...

I am reading...Psalm 119 - a section each day

I am looking forward to...The Clark Garden's Field Trip on Friday

From the learning room...Medieval history!  Knights and princesses!

Around the house...Keeping the kitchen and dining room neat and tidy - goals being accomplished!

I am pondering...what the Lord is saying to me today; how He might be "coaching" me!

A favorite quote for today...

"You use a glass mirror to see your face, you use works of art to see your soul.”
George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950)

One of my favorite things...French Pressed coffee - mmmmmm

A few plans for the rest of the week:  Special Olympics Equestrian Competition this weekend - we are volunteers and we have never been before!

A peek into my day...

A Scripture to meditate on from this morning: 

Yod

73 Your hands made me and formed me;

give me understanding to learn your commands.

The Hebrew letter "yod" also has a meaning in and of itself... hand.  - and there is deeper meaning in the fact that every other letter and therefore every Hebrew word contains the yod.  It is the beginning of the sacred name of God (Yahweh) and the name of the Messiah.  Since Yeshua upholds the world by the Word of His power (Hebrews 1:3), and Yod is part of every Hebrew letter (and therefore every word), Yod is considered the starting point of the presence of God in all things - the "spark" of the Spirit in everything. (empasis mine) - Wow! 


Lectio Divina:
We read the passage slowly: lectio
We meditate on the Word or phrase: meditatio

We talk with God: Oratio
We are silent: Contemplatio

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here

and 

Joining with Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday here

Simple Daybook - Holy Week

FOR TODAY 
April 3rd, 2012

   A peek into my day...

Study and creativity - 

A Scripture to meditate on from this morning: 

 "...Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young--a place near your altar, O LORD Almighty...Psalm 84:3"

Lectio Divina:
We read the passage slowly: lectio
We meditate on the Word or phrase: meditatio

We talk with God: Oratio
We are silent: Contemplatio

Outside my window... Perhaps more rain?  Cloudy, cozy, contemplative...

I am thinking...about Passover, about redemption...

In the kitchen...the traditional lamb-shaped cake will be made today, to symbolize the lamb that was brought into the homes of the Israelite that first Passover...

I am wearing...blue jeans, brown loafers, and the neon green T-shirt sweet tweener thought I needed
                          {so sweet!}

I am creating...our first Passover Seder celebration...loving it!

I am going...perhaps to town to get eggs and other ingredients; perhaps nowhere and just staying home - tucked in and contented...

I am wondering...is my life reflecting my faith?  Is sweet tweener able to "catch" and model it?

I am reading...at the present, only reading online blogs of friends...

I am hoping...I stay focused on what He desires especially for this week.

I am looking forward to...the Messianic Seder plate arriving from Dayspring!

From the learning room...delving into Passover and Jewish customs all week long...and pulling from that our subject work.

Around the house...continuing the deep clean and organization - it feels like the tradition of removing the leaven from the home!

A favorite quote for today...

If only you had known what would bring you peace…
You want comfort — and I offer you a Cross.
You want position — and I offer you purpose.
You want ease — and I offer you eternity.
God cries because His people cry for things that won’t bring them peace. - Ann Voskamp

One of my favorite things...rainy days {love them!}

A few plans for the rest of the week:  get the hiding eggs ready, Easter dinner and egg hunt with friends...

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here

and 

Texture Tuesday here

Simple Daybook - March 27, 2012

Some of my vintage dishware collection

 FOR TODAY 

Outside my window...it is still dark as I write this, I am up early this morning...and I can hear the earth rousing from the night's slumber...

I am thinking...about getting sticky notes to do a window gratitude "journal" with sweet tweener...

I am thankful... 1) for His mercies new every morning, 2) night cuddles with sweet tweener, 3) more time, every day, more time for family and love and the giving of self that makes life meaningful...

In the kitchen...the counters are clean! (They tend to attract stacks of school paper, used glasses, and mail.)

I am wearing...camouflage colored loose pants and a white T-shirt.

I am creating...a tutorial for fiber-art bird nests.

I am going...to try out a knitting club that meets at our local library later this afternoon.

I am wondering...how to organize and prioritize all the creative ideas bombarding my mind these days!

I am reading...over the next lesson/chapter for the "Finding Sanctuary" class.

I am hoping...to navigate these tween and coming teen years with wisdom and grace {sigh}...

I am looking forward to...the month of April - so many fun days - Palm Sunday, Easter, Angel's birthday, plus Special Olympics Equestrian competition that we will be helping with this year!

I am learning...more techniques in Photoshop - love the art of that!

Around the house...clutter, always clutter...

I am pondering...on how to decorate each room around more of a theme {instead of early American garage thrift - I think, using the same techniques (thrifting) I could do victorian shabby chic...)

A favorite quote for today...I found a bunch on Tumblr...but, I will only share two:

"We do not remember days; we remember moments" by Cesare Pavese

One of my favorite things...Vintage dishware!

A few plans for the rest of the week...a trip to Hobby Lobby for wooden egg shapes to paint and perhaps some artificial bird nests for a table setting...

A peek into my day... 

My "Texture Tuesday" photo for today...processed with a levels adjustment layer, one layer of Kim's texture "Flourish" at Multiply blend mode and 38% opacity; one layer of "Be Still" at Multiply blend mode and 58% opacity; a pink color adjustment layer, and each layer has a mask over the plates and cup...

A Scripture to meditate on from this morning: 

"The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
         For His compassions never fail.
 They are new every morning;
         Great is Your faithfulness." - Lamentations 3:23


Lectio Divina:
We read the passage slowly: lectio
We meditate on the Word or phrase: meditatio

We talk with God: Oratio
We are silent: Contemplatio


Diary of 5

I am seeing... a thick carpet of bluebonnets across our property...

I am hearing...crickets, frogs, morning bird song and an occasional dog barking...

I am smelling...that morning cup of coffee!


I tasted...great food at the new Chinese Buffet in Weatherford on Saturday after we were done volunteering at the ranch.

I am feeling...a tickle in my throat; I think I may be catching Angel's cold...

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here
and 
Texture Tuesday here

Simple Daybook - March 20, 2012

Sweet tweener handing me a wild buttercup...

FOR TODAY - March 20th, 2012

Outside my window... Bright spring sun after a night of storms - the light seems so much more intense, the colors more brilliant, after a storm...

I am thinking...about tweener's educational needs (should we pursue the SHAPE Academy?  Keep homeschooling {my preference, for a few more years at least}).  What is God's will?

I am thankful...three things that make me laugh:  1) listening to old Bill Cosby comedy routines, 2) watching reruns of "I Love Lucy", 3) listening to tweener giggle!

In the kitchen...tonight will be fried potatoes and onion, a lettuce salad, a steak.

I am wearing...camo capris and a black knit shirt with lace at the neck and 3/4 length sleeves...

I am creating...a week's worth of color photos for Beyond Layers + writing and writing for the "Finding Sanctuary" course...so wonderful!

I am going...with sweet tweener to the Arlington Smocking Guild meeting on Thursday morning.

I am wondering...what on my to-do list I should do first...I really need to get a weekly planner in place!

I am reading...an audio book (does that count as reading?) with sweet tweener...

I am hoping...that I can get some of this post-hysterectomy weight off.

I am looking forward to...school being over for the day...

I am learning...more techniques in photoshop - am I addicted?

Around the house...Still cleaning and cleaning out - the home office/art studio is in great need and is on my list for this week...

I am pondering...a business schedule...

A favorite quote for today...
"Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not only in books, but in every leaf at springtime." – Martin Luther.

One of my favorite things...time at home.

A few plans for the rest of the week: - renewing the math and language drills on a daily basis and therapeutic riding on Saturday.

A peek into my day...around the house

A Scripture to meditate on from this morning: 

The Spirit of God has made me; 

the breath of the Almighty gives me life.

Job 33:4 (NIV)

Lectio Divina:
We read the passage slowly: lectio
We meditate on the Word or phrase: meditatio

We talk with God: Oratio
We are silent: Contemplatio


Diary of 5 

I am seeing...Tweener listening to her Science lesson...

I am hearing...Bird song, dogs in the distance, tweener's voice {is she really only 10!?!}

I am smelling...fresh air

I tasted...leftover Irish Creme cake!

I am feeling...peace, deep in the heart keep your life stable no matter what the circumstances peace

Joining with the Simple Woman's Daybook community here

Simple Daybook - Spring Break Edition

FOR TODAY - March 14th, 2012

Outside my window... The tree buds are breaking open, baby leaves, giving a soft green glow to their branches

I am thinking...about what God is doing through the "Finding Sanctuary" class...

I am thankful...for the rhythm of the seasons, spring birds, tweener singing in the shower

In the kitchen...looking for my recipe for cheezy potato casserole + thinking about the Easter menu...

I am wearing...blue jeans and white T-shirt with little ruffles all the way down...

I am creating...word eggs and fiber art nests...probably will post steps to making them tomorrow!

I am going...absolutely nowhere!  Loving being tucked in during this Spring Break...

I am wondering...where those pine needles from the Christmas tree keep coming from?!?

I am reading...Michelle Rusha's Lenten devotional for these 40 days - sweet tweener is doing it with me.  The title is "Grace Changes Everything".

I am hoping...That she grows in her relationship with the Lord in tangible ways during this Lent...

I am looking forward to...The movie "Mirror, Mirror" coming to theaters at the end of March ☺.  (I still love fairytales, and Julia Roberts playing the evil queen!?! It will be so fun!)

I am learning...perhaps it is more of a renewing - of my trust in the Lord and how He has even the smallest detail worked out - He has been reassuring me at every turn that tweener's heart IS in His hands, He is aware, and I need to keep listening, do what He asks me to, and rest in His abilities...truer comfort, confidence, peace and joy I do not know...

Around the house...Wiping down baseboards, window sills, chasing dust bunnies where they lie crouched in hidden corners - feeling like this is a Passover preparation...

I am pondering...How to implement all course work and spiritual work after spring break is over...

A favorite quote for today..."If you want to be happy, BE" - (Leo Tolstoy).

One of my favorite things...pillow talk with sweet tweener...

A few plans for the rest of the week: - painting, playing in the soil, perhaps planting some blooming plants...

A peek into my day...playing with my "Beyond Layers" assignment - experimenting with black and white and thinking about fear(s) - (Click here to go to my flickr photostream to see all 8 images)

A Scripture to meditate on from this morning:

So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isa. 41:10

Diary of 5

I am seeing...wood eggs painted blue drying on the table
I am hearing...the soundtrack to the first Transformers movie

I am smelling..."Foldger's in my cup" {smiles}

I tasted...home made peanut butter granolas - yummmm!

I am feeling...content, yes, contentment...

Sharing with The Simple Woman's Daybook

Simple Daybook -

 FOR TODAY

March 6th, 2012

Outside my window...

the sun is out, spring is early - temperatures warm...

I am thinking...

a lot about listening to the Lord, about what simplicity truly is,

about the Lord's leadings in "Finding Sanctuary".

I am thankful..

a gift bent - all those tree branches Angel is gathering, stripping, whittling;

a gift broken - the place in my heart that carries the love for the eldest son;

a gift beautiful - the joy of parenting (2nd round!).

In the kitchen...

going to try this recipe for homemade granola bars:

http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/homemade-chewy-granola-bars-without-corn-syrup

I am wearing...

blue jeans, white shirt, black pin-stripe "boyfriend" jacket...

I am creating...

an e-course called "Finding Sanctuary".

I am going...

to TJMaxx to see if I can find a little mug just like this one:

from my flickr friend "ania♥ in Morocco for a while"

 I am wondering...

how I can write better blog posts...

I am reading...

"October Song" by Beverly Lewis.

I am hoping...

I just am {smiles}

I am looking forward to...

specifically that we have a good showing of bluebonnets this year after so much good rain...

I am learning...

to listen to God be my "business coach"

Around the house...

I have been spending just 10 minutes cleaning in each room a day, 

and it is looking much better!

I am pondering...

how simplicity is a result of focus + faith that He can and WILL take care of little details...

A favorite quote for today...

Simplicity is ultimately a matter of focus - Ann Voskamp

One of my favorite things...

blue birds, blue eggs, and nests are consuming my creative thoughts lately...

A few plans for the rest of the week:

Finishing up several units in the homeschooling arena in preparation for spring break coming up...

A peek into my day...

image processed using two layers of "Happy Heart" set at "multiply".  I was looking for some masculine type scenes for some cards and home decor I am creating.  The blossoming trees are so inviting right now!  But in a brown bottle with a little heavy texture they look worthy to be on a gentleman's writing desk or drafting table...

the image directly below is the exact same image,

processed with only one layer of "Happy Heart" set

on "soft light".

I love each of these images!

Joining with Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday

and

The Simple Woman's Daybook

The Simple Woman's Daybook

A picture for thought I am sharing: An ACEO I made a while back...it reminds me of spring!

FOR TODAY
March 29, 2011...

Outside my window...grey rainy skies - we need some rain!  Hopefully it will make the blue-bonnets run wild!

I am thinking...about Angel's curriculum...does it need tweeking? (It's book-fair time you know!)

I am thankful for....another quiet morning around the house.

From the learning rooms...research on forensic archeology(!)

From the kitchen....I was given this great site for slow cooker recipes - http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2008/08/crockpot-pizza-soup-recipe.html.  You'll be glad you visited!


I am wearing...blue jeans and a long-sleeved brown tunic

I am creating...more mixed media panels; and I am sewing up my stash (making slow headway)

I am going...to have to plan Easter dinner soon.

I am reading..."C.S. Lewis" from the Heroes of History series to Angel.  I just finished reading Kelly Rae Roberts' e-book on creative business - wonderful resources!  I have now started a new Kindle book, a free download, titled "Mom's Ultimate Guide to the Tween Girl World" by Nancy Rue and published by Zondervan...another great resource for our stage of life!

I am hoping...to get some garden preparation done this week.

I am hearing...the dog starting to wake up in her kennel.

Around the house...lot's of arts and crafts going on right now!

One of my favorite things...Angel's smile.

A few plans for the rest of the week...ice skating field trip at the Dr. Pepper Center and another Casa Manana play!  And plans in place to see Wanda and the boys on Sunday afternoon!

The Simple Woman's Daybook
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