Plunkett Party

Managing God's Money by Randy Alcorn

2011-07-13T21:19:00.004-05:00

If you are looking for one book to answer all your money questions, “Managing God’s Money,” by Randy Alcorn is the book you must add to your library. When I say this book answers all your money questions I am not exaggerating. Rightly so, he starts off with what the Bible actually says about money and stewardship then jumps into everyone’s first misconception about money, “Does the Bible say money is evil?”

This book contains a lot of information. I will admit when I first received it and flipped through the pages I thought it was too much information in one book. But the format of the book is what makes it easier to approach. The book is broke down by sections, each section is broke down by chapters then each chapter is written as if it were the FAQ section of a pamphlet. Some of the questions included in the book are: Is it possible to follow God and money? Why does God prosper us sometimes? What does it mean to store up treasures in Heaven? Should reward be our only motivation? Isn’t tithing legalism? Should we tithe on our gross or net? Are we to blame for people’s poverty? Is gambling okay? The list goes on and on.

This would be an excellent resource for recent college graduates that are potentially going to be at their first full-time job making their own money decisions or a newlywed couple that will be making those decisions together. If this book would have been given to me for either of those occasions I probably wouldn’t read it straight through but instead I would read the Table of Contents and look up the questions I had first and get those answered and keep the book around when I approach different phases of life and need a refresher.

Thanks to Tyndale Publishing for providing a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

Pure Pleasure, by Gary Thomas

2011-07-08T08:47:00.006-05:00

In February I had the opportunity to hear Gary Thomas at a marriage conference that was held at our church. I had never heard him speak and I had only read portions of his books. But I did follow him on Twitter. Does that count for anything? While speaking he referred to the book, “Pure Pleasure.” I couldn’t wait to go home and see if it was possible for me to review it. I could review it! I did review it! It did not disappoint.

The subtitle to this book is, “Why do Christians feel so bad about feeling good?” In typical Gary Thomas fashion he jumps right into answering that question in the very first chapter where he said, “We can build lives of true, lasting pleasure and so fortify ourselves against evil because evil has lost much of its allure—or we can try, with an iron will to “scare” ourselves away from evil while still, deep in our hearts, truly longing for it.” I wonder sometimes if we enjoyed our lives more if more people would come to Christ as a result of that rather than constantly condemning ourselves and others. Asking myself that question I moved on to chapter two where he says, “…our self-imposed misery doesn’t erase someone else’s misery; on the contrary, it may simply increase God’s displeasure.” I could go on and on with quotes from this book but I will let you answer your own questions by reading it.

This book is an easy read while some of the chapters are a little longer than others. It is not an easy book to read if you have a toddler and an infant. But while they are napping it is pretty easy to get a chapter in. I’m always a sucker for books that have discussion questions at the end. Of course, this one does. It could be quite effective in a small group setting for a six week study given you read one chapter a week.

Thank you to Zondervan publishing for allowing me to review a complimentary copy of this book.

To read a sample chapter of this book visit their website here.

Michael W. Smith

2011-06-25T11:01:00.009-05:00

A crazy long time ago when I first started listening to Christian music the top three artists you always heard on Christian radio were Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, and DC Talk. I know I have pretty much dated myself but that's okay. Occasionally I'm a little old school when it comes to my music selections. A couple of days ago Chris told me that Michael W. Smith was going to do a private concert for Dayspring employees at our church and the staff was invited but they couldn't tell anyone because the concert really wasn't opened for the public. I was super excited but I didn't tell anyone...until the day of!

Below I have included my top three favorite Michael W. Smith songs:

Place In This World

This was the first Michael W. Smith song I heard on the radio. To completely let you figure out how old I am I kept a blank cassette in my radio so the next time the song came on the radio I could record it! Yep, I was compiling a mixed tape!

The Giving

This was off his completely instrumental album. This is my favorite Michael W. Smith album ever! This song was actually played at our wedding as our families were walking in.

There She Stands

I grew up with insanely patriotic grandparents and several of my family members have served in the military and I am forever grateful for their sacrifices. The story behind this song is pretty cool too. Perhaps I'll post it for the Fourth of July.

Dug Down Deep, by Joshua Harris

2011-06-21T15:42:00.001-05:00

The perfect sentence to describe, “Dug Down Deep,” by Joshua Harris was written in the introduction by the author himself. He said, “I’ve tried to keep things very simple in the hope that people who never paid attention to theology will find it accessible (and also because simple is the only way I understand things).” I would be one of the people that preferred not to pay attention to theology. I knew what I believed but if someone ever doubted me on it I probably wouldn’t know what to say.

Like most believers the word, “theology,” brings to mind seminary professors and preachers. But in the first chapter the author starts off with why theology and doctrine are important to him and why it should be important to everyone. He states, “We’re either building our lives on the reality of what God is truly like and what he’s about, or we’re basing our lives on our own imagination and misconceptions.” Simply put the remainder of the book builds from that idea. Each chapter focuses on one aspect of Christian doctrine: the Bible, Sanctification, the Holy Spirit, God, Redemption, etc.

Unlike most books on Christian doctrine and theology I didn’t once have to pull out a dictionary. But I also didn’t feel as if Harris was “dumbing down” the gospel either. To make the book even more memorable there is a discussion guide in the back that is perfect for discipleship or small groups.

Thanks to Blogging for Books for a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

To read the first chapter click here.

To watch a video summary click here.

Harper: 2 Months

2011-06-20T15:06:00.000-05:00

Today Harper is two months old! The past two months have gone by so fast. It seems like just yesterday I was super huge and cranky just waiting for her to be born!

Here are the stats straight from the doctor's office today:

Height: 21 inches
Weight: 10.2 lbs
Clothes: 0-3 months
Shoes: 0 (yes, they do make size 0 shoes and yes, my daughter wears them)
Diapers: 1

She is almost sleeping through the night. She gets her last bottle around 7-7:30 PM and usually wakes up between 4:30-6:00 AM. Every once in a great while she'll stay asleep until 7:00 but right now she's pretty determined to wake up at 6:00.

She might also have reflux. Yuck. She spits up A LOT! According to her doctor she was being over fed (my bad). So we're knocking back her feedings to 3 1/2 oz and we'll see how that goes. If she is still spitting up a lot then we'll go for an upper GI to see if she has reflux.

Other than the reflux junk she is perfectly average! Here are some pictures of the cutest 2 month old little girl I know:

For real, have you seen a prettier little girl?!

8 week shots! Not so fun.

Starting to calm down just a little bit.

The Principle of the Path, by Andy Stanley

2011-06-17T11:08:00.000-05:00

I originally volunteered to review, “The Principle of the Path,” because it was written by Andy Stanley and I wanted an easy read. I suppose if I felt I was wandering aimlessly in life I might have gotten more out of this book. The fact that it took me about three months to read it should be some indication of my interest in the book. The reason it took so long was not because I was so engrossed I read it several times but more because it did not catch my interest immediately therefore, it went on the back burner. I was pretty much reading the book just to turn in a review so I could get another book to review.

After slowly reading the book my conclusion is if you feel as if you are wandering around with no purpose or meaning to your life perhaps you should pick up this book (and your Bible). But if you are just going to read it because it’s an Andy Stanley book and you’ve never read it before I suggest you re-read another one.

Thank you to Booksneeze for the complimentary copy of this book for review purposes.

Eli: 20 Months

2011-06-14T10:24:00.000-05:00

That's right! Mr. Mr. (aka Eli, Tornado, etc) is 20 months old today! I can not believe he is almost two years old! AND yes, I have been thinking about his 2nd birthday party. I have a couple of ideas but I haven't landed on one yet. For now, here's the stats on Eli:

Weight: 27 lbs at his last doctor's appt
Height: 35 inches
Clothes size: 18-2T (it depends what brand it is)
Shoe size: 7
Diaper size: 6

Some of Eli's favorite foods lately have been blueberries (fresh or frozen) and beefaroni (I think it's disgusting but he LOVES it)!

Enjoy this picture of the cutest 20 month old around:

Thanks to Mrs. Connie Delphon Eli did get his second haircut!

Sunday Song: Jesus Paid It All

2011-06-13T07:27:00.000-05:00

Jesus Paid It All

(lyrics for this song are written by Hillsong)

I hear the Savior say

Thy strength indeed is small

Child of weakness watch and pray

Find in me thine all in all

Jesus paid it all

All to him I owe

Sin had left a crimson stain

He washed it white as snow

Lord now indeed I find

Thy power and thine alone

Can change the lepers spots

And melt the heart of stone

Jesus paid it all

All to him I owe

Sin had left a crimson stain

He washed it white as snow

It's washed away! All my sin! And all my shame!

And when before the throne

I stand in him complete

Jesus died my soul to save

My lips shall still repeat

Jesus paid it all

All to him I owe

Sin had left a crimson stain

He washed it white as snow

Sin had left a crimson stain

He washed it white as snow

Oh praise the one who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead (x6)

Jesus paid it all

All to him I owe

Sin had left a crimson stain

He washed it white as snow

: Read Jesus Paid It All O Praise The One Lyrics here.

Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young

2011-06-08T09:20:00.001-05:00

I am not normally a fan of short, one page devotionals because they often just scratch the surface and some don't even reference the Bible. They are occasionally motivational one liners under a Christian title. The only reason I was even intrigued by, "Jesus Calling," was because in one week three different people in three different social circles had talked about how great this book was. Clearly, this was something I needed to know about. However, my local Christian bookstore did not have it in stock so I was unable to preview the book before purchasing it off Amazon.

I have to say, as far as one page devotional books go this one is right up there with, "My Utmost for His Highest," and "Streams in the Desert." Granted, they are only one page long but they are insightful, honest devotionals with scripture references. For this mom with two kids under two it is sometimes just what I need to keep my head above water until I have time for a legitimate study which has to wait until nap time.

Sunday Song

2011-06-07T09:56:00.000-05:00

If you read a lot of blogs you know that some blogs have, what they call, "Weekly Standards." It is when the author will post something every week that meets a certain criteria. Some of the weekly standards I see are: Friday Favorites, Meatless Mondays, etc. Well, my weekly standard is going to be "Sunday Song." I will post the lyrics to one song that we sang during church on Sunday. I will attempt to post it on Sunday but don't be shocked if it gets posted later in the week. So...enjoy the first ever Sunday Song:

"Amazed"*

You dance over me while I am unaware

You sing all around but I never hear the sound

Lord I'm amazed by You

And how You love me

You paint the morning sky with miracles in mind

My hope will always stand

For You hold me in Your hand

How deep how wide

How great is Your love for me

"Amazed" is the second song we sang during the May 29th service (we were in Dallas this past Sunday so this is from the week before):

Pinnacle Hills Worship 5/29/11 from Cross Church on Vimeo.

*Christian lyrics - AMAZED LYRICS - LINCOLN BREWSTER

Girls of Summer Reading List

2011-05-25T11:13:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year again! Time to sit by the pool, soak up some rays, and expand your mind. Or in my case, sit in a chair by the kiddie pool in my backyard after I douse my kids in SPF 50 and douse myself in SPF 5. Here are my recommendations for the girls this summer:

Lady in Waiting, by Jackie Kendall. I know it has a cheesy title but it is an excellent book that I highly recommend to any girl not married. Even if you are engaged I would still recommend it! The author does an excellent job of telling real life stories while always going back to the Bible in the end. There is tons of scripture and the most recent version (pictured to the left) even has basically an entire study guide/journal at the end.

The Scent of Water, by Naomi Zacharias. I did a review of this book a couple of weeks ago and loved it! If you want to know more about it you will just have to read the review by going here.

Surprised by Worship, by Travis Cottrell. I also did a review of this book too. This is a good summer reading book because it's small and you can tuck it away in the smallest of purses and read it any time! To read my review of this book go here.

If you are looking for fiction you will have to ask someone else because I don't read much fiction and what I do read is usually suspense type stuff...sorry.

Harper is 1 Month Old!

2011-05-20T10:36:00.000-05:00

Today Harper officially turned 1 month old! She is growing like crazy! Some people still say she is "so tiny." But compared to where she started I think she's doing great.

She drinks about 4 ounces of formula at every feeding. I thought she might have reflux issues but we switched her formula to soy and she seems to be doing much better!

She is starting to out grow her NB Carter's onesies.

She has also gone from newborn diapers to size 1.

April 20, 2011

May 20, 2011

Reason #47 to Get on Pinterest

2011-05-17T11:53:00.000-05:00

Anyone that follows me on Twitter knows that I have been a little consumed with Pinterest lately! It's like a digital To Do Binder. It allows you to "pin" items you see online to a virtual bulletin board while also allowing you to see items other people have pinned! It is really quite addicting! AND there's a Pinterest app for your iphone too!

One of my followers pinned this really cool scarf.

I followed the link because I do love a good scarf and much to my dismay find out it's made out of a t-shirt! And the best part: NO SEWING!

Today during nap time I attempted the t-shirt scarf from a very cheaply made maternity t-shirt.

I used a regular pen and bowl measuring 8 1/2 inches. Tidy Mom recommends 9 inch paper plates but I don't have 9 inch paper plates and this bowl is the closest I could find.

Trace the bowl as many times as you can on the front and back. Cut the circles out.
Then cut all the circles into spirals. The bigger the spiral the shorter the scarf.

Take all the pieces and tie them around your neck. Tidy Mom added the pin to hers to spruce it up a bit.
Sorry, I'm not going to model this on myself because I'm still in my pajamas.

I strongly recommend you follow Tidy Mom's instructions because she has more pictures. This scarf was seriously so easy! AND since it's made out of a t-shirt it is super thin so it could be worn in the summer and not look totally out of season!

Eli-19 Months Old

2011-05-16T17:35:00.000-05:00

May 14th Eli was officially 19 months old! He celebrated by getting a double ear infection. Yuck, for everyone in the house!

Here's the stats for Mr. E at 19 months:
Weight: 27 lbs
Height: 35 inches
Diapers: Just moved up to a size 6
Clothes: 24 months and some 2T
Shoes: 6/7

It seems like he's grown so much since just last month. It's almost time for another hair cut too. So we'll be on the look out for someone to do that too. I think we'll get over the ear infection before we go looking for trouble with another haircut.

The Scent of Water, by Naomi Zacharias

2011-05-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

Being a stay at home mom and hanging out with other stay at home moms I often find myself in a very safe Christian bubble consumed with nap schedules, feedings, and development milestones. “The Scent of Water,” by Naomi Zacharias will bring you out of that bubble or whatever bubble you are in. I am not naïve enough to thing injustices do not happen in our world. But Naomi Zacharias has a way of vividly describing her surroundings so you feel you are there with her while she’s walking in the red light district or entering a brothel.

She tells the story of several women and the brokenness in their lives and how they are trying to get out of their brokenness and live new lives. At first glance you might feel this book could be depressing as you read about the horrid lives these young women have lived and the pits they end up in. But again, Zacharias has a way of bringing it full circle so you see them now and how God’s mercy has shown down on them. Each woman’s story recognizes God’s grace and mercy and they all thank Him for it.

Towards the end of the book Zacharias says, “Life is about fighting through what is painful, what is downright wrong, for the sake of what is right.” You may not have survived life in the red light district or had a husband that turned out to be a pimp but we all have pain in our past that has shaped who we are in our present and, more than likely, will shape our future. The question we must all ask ourselves is if we are going to let God use our past for His future or are we going to attempt to hide it from everyone and pretend it never happened never allowing it to be used for God’s glory.

Thanks to Zondervan publishing for a complementary copy of this book for reviewing purposes. If you are interested in reading a sample chapter or purchasing this book please follow this link.

Boredom, Shutterfly, and Camera Bag

2011-05-11T20:27:00.000-05:00

This afternoon while the kids were alseep I was chatting with my friend and photographer, Liz Chivvis, and ended our chat because I thought both kids had woke up. But in fact Eli was still asleep and Harper was awake. So I decided to take some pictures of just her. I wanted to get some pictures of her with the quilt my mom made and since Eli was asleep it proved to be the best time. I also got a new app on my phone so I had some fun with the colors and cropping too.

Changes, Changes, Changes

2011-04-27T15:02:00.000-05:00

Poor Eli. Not only did we bring home another child but we also promoted him to a big boy bed. This issue has been an ongoing discussion since we found out Harper was coming. We didn't want to buy a second crib but we didn't know if Eli would be ready for a bigger bed or not. Then if we did take him out of his crib did we want to buy a toddler bed or twin bed or just put him on the full size bed in our guest room?

Well, during a 3 AM feeding session with Harper I asked myself, "Self, why not just move the beds now?" Later in the day when Chris woke up we talked about it and decided if we're going to be up already with Harper why not go ahead and make the transition with Eli too. Our fear was always he would never sleep. He would get off the bed and play with his toys. So began musical beds, the pack and play Harper was sleeping in went in the closet, the crib went in Harper's room, and the full size bed went in Eli's room (minus the frame). We left the frame off the full size bed so Eli could get in and out by himself.

After lunch that day it was time for Eli's nap and Chris went in his room with him and laid him down and said it was time to take a nap. Eli laid right now and went to sleep. We checked on him twice (see pictures below) and he was sound asleep! He has done SO GOOD in his new bed. He does not get out of his bed until we come to get him. In the mornings or after his nap he will sit on his bed and moan or scream just like he did in his crib. When we walk in his room he slides right off as if he was just waiting on us.

I know the beige sheets don't scream, "adorable." Since his room is done in Arkansas Razorbacks I am on the hunt for either super cheap Razorback sheets or red and black sheets.

Harper's Arrival

2011-04-23T15:21:00.000-05:00

Instead of updating you on week 38 I'll be updating you on Harper's arrival! Wednesday, April 20th my mom came to town to watch Eli while me and Chris went to the doctor. After the appointment me, Mom, and Eli were going to do some much needed shopping. However...my blood pressure was 150/100 at the doctor's office (that's super high in case you didn't know). Dr. Martinelli said we could either induce that day or put me on bed rest and probably induce in a couple of days. Chris and I decided induction that day would work instead of just postponing the inevitable.

Off we go to Mercy hospital in Rogers. We checked in around noon. And that's when the chaos started. Apparently, there was a full moon or something because babies were being born too fast for the hospital to keep up. They were having to call nurses in on their days off and call doctors in off stand by to come deliver because it was too much for the doctor that was on call. They did not want to start my induction meds until a nurse could be completely devoted to me to watch me. Fast forward 5 hours to 5:30 and I have induction meds, fast forward to 7:30 epidural FINALLY arrives! Now, let me take a break here. I am a total chicken--I do not like to feel pain. With Eli I had an epidural before I felt any pain at all. With Harper my epidural didn't come until I was feeling WAY MORE pain than I EVER wanted to. My nurse literally had to chase the epidural man in the parking lot so he wouldn't go home. We thanked him repeatedly for not going home and apologized that he would be late for dinner. Fast forward to 10:16 PM Harper arrives!

10:16 PM, 6 lbs, 10 oz, 18 1/2 inches long

The Next Day

Now, Thursday (the day after) started off really good. I had put some make up on, had some pictures taken, etc. One part I left out of Wednesday was the whole blood pressure issue. When you are pregnant and get high blood pressure you might have to get some magnesium so you don't have a seizure after birth. I had avoided the mag bag (as I lovingly call it) up until the actual time of my delivery. The doctor was concerned about the seizure issue so she put a bag on right before I started pushing. The good thing about doing it this way is Harper didn't get any so the effects it had on me it didn't have on her.

Back to Thursday, my blood pressure was still high so they started a second round of the mag bag. Mag makes you feel like you have the flu. It is not good at all. So...let the melt down begin. The combination of hormones, exhaustion, and mag made me insanely weepy Thursday. I feel sorry for anyone that came to see me Thursday because it was not a pretty sight. Around noon my nurse kicked everyone out of my room, turned out the lights and gave me something that basically put me in a coma for about 7 hours. I remember waking up on and off but other than that I don't have any idea what went on during those 7 hours. Thank goodness my mom and Chris were there to inform me later.

This picture was taken the morning after Harper was born before the meltdown started.

The Last Day

Friday was the discharge day! Apparently, a 7 hour coma can really make your blood pressure drop so when the doctor came in Thursday morning he said as long as my blood pressure readings kept coming back low I could go home Friday afternoon! I was a good girl almost all day and laid on my left side for most of the morning so all my reading came back normal!!! We got home around 4:00 Friday afternoon.

Eli is spending the weekend with my parents while we get Harper adjusted to life outside the womb. He'll be back Sunday and I can't wait. He's pretty interested in Harper like she's a new toy or something. We're trying to teach him what "gentle" means. It is still a work in progress.

Thanks to everyone for all the well wishes, visits, and meals we've received so far. We are truly blessed!

Eli at 18 Months

2011-04-18T10:09:00.000-05:00

That's right! Eli's officially 18 months old! Can you believe it?! I can't. I still can't believe in a couple of weeks there will be another baby in our house!

Here's the low down on Mr. Eli Plunkett:
Diapers: 5
Shoes: 6/7
Clothes: 18-24 months (some 2T)
Weight: 28 lbs
Height: 33 inches

I've said it before and I'll say it again: Eli is all boy! A couple of weeks ago I met a friend from high school at a local park with her two boys and Eli didn't really care much for the actual playground. Now, the creek with rocks--that's where he wanted to be. Lucky for us, my friend's sons were also interested in the rocks so we probably spent more time on the edge of the creek throwing rocks than at the actual playground.

Here he is! Running in the backyard!

Harper at 36 Weeks

2011-04-13T13:12:00.000-05:00

I had a doctor's appointment today so this update is hot off the presses!

How far along: 36 Weeks

Size of baby: According to "What to Expect When You're Expecting," Harper is about the size of a watermelon (pleasant thought isn't it) and weighing about 6.5 lbs.
Total Weight Gain/Loss: +23 pounds. Considering I had gained 37 lbs w/ Eli by this point I'm okay with 23 lbs.
Maternity Clothes: It occurred to me a couple of days ago that Easter will be here while I'm huge-o pregnant. That should be interesting I'm sure. Trust me, no cute floral dresses this year! Pretty sure I would look like a flower garden!
Gender: Girl! Harper Lee Plunkett!
Movement: Harper's not really moving around a lot anymore but when she moves it is a big move and super uncomfortable.
Sleep: Sucks. It is getting harder to fall asleep and recently Eli has decided that he wants to start waking up at crazy times so that is no fun.
What I miss: Going a whole night without having to get up to go to the bathroom and not having heartburn 24 hours a day.
Cravings: I don't think I have super weird cravings but sometimes the mood strikes for ice cream or something. And I do love a good Coke Icee!
Symptoms: I have that annoying restless leg junk and the heartburn is crazy! I am not kidding--I get heartburn around 8 AM! Usually, I haven't even eaten anything at that point! It seems everything gives me heartburn, I'm averaging about 8 Tums a day at this point.
Best moment this week: Taking a two hour nap last week!
What's happening next: My next doctor appointment is April 20th. My mom is going to come up that day and watch Eli while I go to the doctor's office.

First Day Trip in NWA: Wild Wilderness Drive Thru Safari

2011-04-04T16:27:00.000-05:00

We took our first day trip in northwest Arkansas. I had heard about this drive thru safari place in Gentry but had never been there. Now, the moms I talked to said their kids really liked it but the nannies I talked to said it was "ghetto." Whatever that means when referring to a zoo atmosphere.

Anyways, my parents came up and went with us. It took about 45 minutes to get there from our house. We did the petting zoo first so Eli could get out of his car seat and walk around.

He had some bread to give the animals but he really wasn't too sure about sharing it.

Eli loves to pick up rocks. Of course he found a rock at the zoo!

He also loves sand, gravel, and dirt!
When we put him in the turtle pen he sat right down and played in the sand.
He could care less about the giant turtles behind him.

Now this peacock perked him right up!
It was just roaming around the park and Eli decided to chase it.

Until it jumped on the fence to get away from him.

Exploring this part of the park took about an hour. Once we finished this we purchased some over priced drinks at the concession stand then hopped in the car for the drive thru safari. My dad was a little paranoid about animals sticking their heads in the car so every time an animal got it's head close to the car he rolled all the windows up. I think he's seen too many YouTube videos about animals going crazy in your car. It was pretty funny to watch some of these animals just walk right up to your car and look in the window!

This fella just stood there because my dad wouldn't roll the window down for him.

I think Eli and this zebra were having a staring contest.

Overall, I'd say it was a success. The cost was 10.00 per person and Eli was free because he was under 2. I do think now is the best time to go because I'm guessing tons of animals pooping in Arkansas heat could be quite disgusting come summer time. We got there around 1:30 and left around 3:30. When we left there was a very long line of cars to get in.

When you go take your own bread and your own drinks.

Harper at 34 Weeks

2011-04-01T16:19:00.000-05:00

I had a doctor's appointment today so this update is hot off the presses!

How far along: 34 Weeks

Size of baby: According to "What to Expect When You're Expecting," Harper is about the size of a pineapple and weighing about 5 lbs.

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +20 pounds. I know right! I was so proud of myself for maintaining that pretty little number of 9 lbs for so long then BAM! A growing baby and little water retention makes for a puffy girl. Which is great when your husband starts a new job and you're meeting new people everyday and their first impression of you is 20 pounds heavier and a puffy face.
Maternity Clothes: It occurred to me a couple of days ago that Easter will be here while I'm huge-o pregnant. That should be interesting I'm sure. Trust me, no cute floral dresses this year! Pretty sure I would look like a flower garden!
Gender: Girl! Harper Lee Plunkett!
Movement: Harper is pretty active. She's usually on my right side and sometimes I think she's trying to stand up! We've reached the stage where she's trying to stretch out and I'm holding her back.
Sleep: Once I fall asleep it is GOOD sleep and some crazy dreams! It is getting harder and harder to fall asleep though. But my doctor says I can take Tylenol PM so if I feel a sleepless night is approaching I will take one.
What I miss: Going a whole night without having to get up to go to the bathroom and not having heartburn 24 hours a day. By omitting some things from my diet my heart burn has gotten better and I also keep Tums in my purse at all times. Sadly, the things that cause heartburn are some of my absolute favorite things, like tomato products (spaghetti sauce, pizza, BBQ), coffee, carbonated beverages, and acidy things (orange juice).
Cravings: I don't think I have super weird cravings but sometimes the mood strikes for ice cream or something. And I do love a good Coke Icee!
Symptoms: I have that annoying restless leg junk and the heartburn is crazy! I am not kidding--I get heartburn around 8 AM! Usually, I haven't even eaten anything at that point! It seems everything gives me heartburn, I'm averaging about 8 Tums a day at this point.
Best moment this week: Taking a nap one day while Eli took a nap. It is the simple things.
What's happening next: My next doctor appointment is April 13th.

Made to Crave by Lysa Terkeurst

2011-03-30T10:42:00.002-05:00

If you are wanting to dive deep inside a person’s life regarding their honest struggle with food you must read, “Made to Crave,” by Lysa Terkeurst. Just as she did in, “Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl,” she writes with honesty and candor. If you are tired of lying to yourself and others about your food struggles you need some honesty and candor in your life.

Gleaning from Terkeurst’s honesty let me be honest with you. I have read several reviews on this book and even thought for myself, “Do we really need another person’s opinion on eating?” Well, yes, we do. Clearly Americans are comfortable with food and sometimes too comfortable. Terkeurst takes a hard look at herself and basically lets you see all the dirty laundry regarding this struggle in her life. It is very refreshing. However, at times I felt like I was reading her diary and needed to apologize for it.

Aside from stepping on your toes and challenging you to change this book is an easy read. Meaning, the chapters are short so if you have kids running around or you are squeezing it in on your coffee break you can read this book. Each chapter ends with questions for you to reflect on. A friend of mine read this book while keeping a journal and answered the questions in her journal so she could go back and see what changes had taken place. This book is also filled with scripture. It is not simply Terkeurst’s opinions but it includes what verses and passages spoke to her and prayerfully will speak to you too.

Lastly, individuals that have never struggled with food will scoff at the idea of this book. Terkeurst makes this statement in the introduction that could sum it up for you, “I’m a simple Jesus girl on a journey to finding deeper motivation than just a number on a scale for getting and staying healthy.”

Thank you to Zondervan Publishing for providing a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

If you are interested in purchasing or downloading this book please visit Zondervan's website.

House Projects

2011-03-29T12:50:00.000-05:00

Once we had an address and each kid was going to have their own rooms I started working on some projects for their rooms. Eli's room is a little difficult to make stuff for because it's done in Arkansas Razorback stuff but he also has old trucks in there too so I'm always looking for something to make that doesn't look too girly for him.

Eli's project board

A friend of mine used window shutters for her daughter a project board but shutters seemed kind of girly so I had to think of a manly project board. Enter--chicken wire! I found this open back frame on clearance at Hobby Lobby for $12.00, spray painted it red and stapled the chicken wire on the back. I have some little clothes pins packed away some where to use instead of that giant clip in the picture.

Harper's door sign

This is an idea I took from an Etsy seller. Her product was just the chalkboard used as a photo prop. I asked my uncle if he could cut the shape out of wood and I would do the rest. Instead he cut two boards and painted them for me! I hot glued the tulle on the front and finished it off! The second board he cut for me is in my kitchen. It's nothing fancy so I didn't take a picture.

Harper's mirror

My same aunt and uncle that did the boards for me had a massive indoor yard sale and once the dust settled I went "picking" (you know the show American Pickers) in what was left over! No one bought this mirror so I took it off their hands. I spray painted it purple and tied some tulle at the top. Right now it's hanging over Harper's dresser/changing table.

Harper's bow board

This is currently the most colorful thing in Harper's room (until her bedding is done anyways). One of my mom's friends made Harper all of these adorable bows! I bought the open back frame at Hobby Lobby for $7.00 (I think), spray painted it green, stapled ribbon to the back then the main fabric from Harper's bedding, and of course, added the tulle!

This is all I have done right now. I still need to re-finish a dresser for Harper's room. I'm planning on doing it this weekend. I'm also on the hunt for a cheap, simple desk to re-finish for our bedroom. I thought I found one on Craigslist but by the time I e-mailed the seller it was already gone! But I'm still hunting!

The Newest Normal

2011-03-23T18:50:00.000-05:00

We made it! The movers arrived with our belongings a day early! They called Saturday while Chris was driving back to my parent's house from Sonic to see if it would be okay if they dropped our stuff off that day?! Of course it was okay! Eli was taking a nap at my parent's house so instead of waking him up we left him there and headed north to meet the movers!

While they were still unloading boxes Chris started unpacking boxes. Once the movers left we worked on Eli's room because we wanted it to be completely done when he arrived Sunday. We got that done, went to MAD Pizza and ate a much needed dinner and took advantage of their wifi so Chris could get his new phone up and running. Then of course, we had to go to Wal-Mart to pick up some things that didn't make the move.

We pretty much worked our tails off Saturday and Sunday so by Monday we only had Harper's room and the garage to finish. By the way, it's Wednesday and we still need to work on those rooms. While Chris was gone to a meeting today I went in Harper's room and then just turned around and walked out. I don't even have the energy to tackle that project yet! However, I do need to refinish her dresser before she arrives...mmmm, I should probably work on that soon.

We still have a couple of things to do to get really settled. One is getting internet at home. Who knew that Suddenlink in Bryan had such good deals on cable and internet?! Right now I'm taking advantage of the Panera Bread that is 5 minutes from our house and their wifi.

Also, if there are any friends in NWA that need boxes let me know because we have a mountain of boxes in our garage that will just get thrown away if no one needs them.

House Pictures

2011-03-16T17:45:00.000-05:00

This past Monday I found a house!! I had a list of three houses in Rogers to look at. When I showed up at the realtor's office two of them were no longer available and one was in a neighborhood he wouldn't live in. His exact words were, "The house looks nice but I wouldn't live there," that's all I needed to hear. So he had three more houses that were located in Bentonville for us to look at. Of the three we looked at we chose the second one, filled out the application, and paid the deposit! I am so glad it worked out that way! When the leasing agent said, "Okay, it's yours," it felt like an actual weigh had been lifted!

I have included some pictures of the house below. These were taken with my cell phone so they are not the best quality.

The front!

The living room.

Whirlpool tub in master bathroom.
Where I'll be this Sunday night after the movers leave.

The dining area

The kitchen.
We'll be looking for a fridge soon. Either black or stainless steel.

Eli & Harper's bathroom/guest bathroom

The back patio area

The packers came to the house in Bryan and packed up everything. The loading truck is supposed to arrive at 7:30 tomorrow morning. Last Chris heard they should be delivering our belongings on Sunday!!!

Harper at 32 Weeks

2011-03-16T09:41:00.000-05:00

Since we are moving I had to find a new doctor that would deliver Harper. Who knew that could be so complicated?! Apparently, when you are 32 weeks along it gets a little tricky. Through some references I found a doctor at the Mercy Women's Clinic in Rogers. Her name is Dr. Martinelli and she is great! My first appointment with her was yesterday. The office staff is so friendly considering we are not only changing doctors but also insurance plans! So here's the low down on Harper:

How far along: 32 Weeks

Size of baby: According to "What to Expect When You're Expecting," Harper is about the size of a honeydew and weighing about 4.5 lbs.
Total Weight Gain/Loss: +12 pounds. I'm okay with 12 lbs right now considering I gained 37 POUNDS total with Eli and there was only one of him!!!
Maternity Clothes: I still wear a couple of non-maternity shirts but all my pants are maternity or extremely stretchy! However, it occured to me a couple of days ago that Easter will be here while I'm huge-o pregnant. That should be interesting I'm sure. Trust me, no cute floral dresses this year! Pretty sure I would look like a flower garden!
Gender: Girl! Harper Lee Plunkett!
Movement: Harper is pretty active. She's usually on my right side and sometimes I think she's trying to stand up! We've reached the stage where she's trying to stretch out and I'm holding her back.
Sleep: Once I fall asleep it is GOOD sleep and some crazy dreams! It is getting harder and harder to fall asleep though. But my doctor says I can take Tylenol PM so if I feel a sleepless night is approaching I will take one.
What I miss: Going a whole night without having to get up to go to the bathroom and not having heartburn 24 hours a day. By omitting some things from my diet my heart burn has gotten better and I also keep Tums in my purse at all times. Sadly, the things that cause heartburn are some of my absolute favorite things, like tomato products (spaghetti sauce, pizza, BBQ), coffee, carbonated beverages, and acidy things (orange juice).
Cravings: I don't think I have super weird cravings but sometimes the mood strikes for ice cream or something. And I do love a good Coke Icee!
Symptoms: I have that annoying restless leg junk and the heartburn is crazy! I am not kidding--I get heartburn around 8 AM! Usually, I haven't even eaten anything at that point! It seems everything gives me heartburn, I'm averaging about 8 Tums a day at this point.
Best moment this week: Finding a house on Monday and having a doctor's appointment on Tuesday. Two big stressors about our move that were taken care of fairly quickly.
What's happening next: My next doctor appointment is April 1st.

Little Star by Anthony DeStefano

2011-03-10T10:01:00.000-06:00

“Little Star,” is actually a Christmas book but I couldn’t resist the opportunity to review it because I love books that have little boys as the main characters because I have a little boy. Anthony DeStefano starts off his children’s book with a boy asking a question and his father spends the rest of the book answering his question, “Dad, which one is the Christmas star?”

I don’t want to say too much about the actual story because it is really good and you need to buy it for your kids. “Little Star,” is the story of the little star’s ultimate gift for Jesus the night He was born. I’m not usually a fan of books covering up the Christmas story to make it something cute and marketable. I don’t feel this book does that. It still tells the Christmas story but it is bookended by the story of the little star’s gift as well.

Might I also add the illustrations in this book are wonderful. Mark Elliott did a great job illustrating this story without it looking like a cartoon or comic book. This book needs to be added to your Christmas book library.

Thanks to Blogging for Books for the complementary copy of this book to review.

We're Moving!!!

2011-03-06T16:07:00.000-06:00

That’s right. The Plunkett’s are moving back to Arkansas! It’s been fun, Texas! Chris has accepted a position at Cross Church, Pinnacle Hills in Rogers to be the Minister to Young Singles. We are so excited about this! We are going to be so much closer to family and it is always exciting to see what God does in the lives of young adults!

Now, don’t get me wrong, we love Texas and Aggies will always have a special place in our heart but on Eli’s list of colleges will be University of Arkansas THEN Texas A & M. It is sad to leave Texas because we have so many good friends but we are looking forward to what God has in store in Northwest Arkansas.

This is my last week here. I’m going to Arkansas Sunday to start looking at houses and finding a new doctor so pray that is a seamless process! Chris will be staying here through Spring Break to tie up some loose ends then he’ll be heading north!

Harper at 30 Weeks

2011-03-03T12:45:00.000-06:00

How far along: 30 Weeks

Size of baby: According to "What to Expect When You're Expecting," Harper is about the size of a head of lettuce.
Total Weight Gain/Loss: +9 pounds. At my last appointment I had only gained 4 lbs. I'm pretty sure by this point with Eli I had gained about 15.
Maternity Clothes: I still wear a couple of non-maternity shirts but all my pants are maternity or extremely stretchy! I did break down and buy a couple new shirts last week.
Gender: Girl! Harper Lee Plunkett!
Movement: Harper is pretty active. Occasionally, she does kick and/or jab so hard I can't sleep or get comfortable. I think we've reached the stage where she's trying to stretch out and I'm holding her back.
Sleep: Once I fall asleep it is GOOD sleep and some crazy dreams! It is getting harder and harder to fall asleep though. But my doctor says I can take Tylenol PM so if I feel a sleepless night is approaching I will take one.
What I miss: Going a whole night without having to get up to go to the bathroom and not having heartburn 24 hours a day. By omitting some things from my diet my heart burn has gotten better and I also keep Tums in my purse at all times. Sadly, the things that cause heartburn are some of my absolute favorite things, like tomato products (spaghetti sauce, pizza, BBQ), coffee, carbonated beverages, and acidy things (orange juice).
Cravings: I don't think I have super weird cravings but sometimes the mood strikes for ice cream or something. And I do love a good Coke Icee!
Symptoms: I have that annoying restless leg junk and sadly, I read that hot baths can sometimes make it worse so for a week I haven't taken a hot bath and I think it is better. I also have started getting heartburn from the moment I wake up. That's just not right especially, when you love Mexican food as much as I do.
Best moment this week: Being able to sleep through the night a couple of days ago without having to get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. At this point it's the little things in life.
What's happening next: Instead of having monthly appointments I'm at the point where I have appointments every 3 weeks now.

Limited TV Week Summary

2011-03-02T12:06:00.000-06:00

Like I said in my previous posts about limited TV was not a life altering week. One thing it did make us realize was how much TV Eli watches. Most of the time he is playing and completely un-interested in anything else but if a song comes on TV he stops what he’s doing and makes his way to the living room to check it out. Cheers, for instance, is a theme song he loves! It is kind of funny to see him “dance” to things on TV but it is also not necessary.

After last week Chris even talked about not having a TV in our living room and putting it either in our bedroom or a guest room just to keep the kids (yes, in May we will have two kids) from watching too much TV. Most of the shows me and Chris watch come on at 9:00 anyways so the kids would be in bed already. You know those 9:00 shows you love: The Good Wife, Blue Bloods, Castle…admit it!

Overall, it was good and I don’t think it would hurt people to make a conscience effort to limit their TV just to see how much they do watch and/or depend on it for things. As I said in the beginning I was using the TV to keep Eli occupied so I could get ready or unload the dishwasher, etc but now I’ve just learned to keep my bedroom more child proof in case little feet come wandering in and I’m getting pretty good at loading and unloading the dishwasher with his “help.”

Limited TV Day 3

2011-02-22T20:32:00.000-06:00

Like I ended my post about day two--there is no life altering revelations taking place. We are just being more productive with our time since we are not sitting in front of the TV. For Eli that means we read more books and practice coloring more. Reading books, alone, makes me realize how old Good Night Moon is getting. Before Eli was born he actually received two copies of that book and they both look like they have been through the ringer. As soon as I start reading one book he'll throw Good Night Moon down in my lap. His own suggestive way of saying he wants that one read next.

This challenge is actually not that difficult for me and Chris because we both like to read so when the TV is off and Eli's in bed we'll just pull out our Bible or another book we're reading. It's not really torture.

One thing I have noticed this week is my sleep pattern. I don't know if it's because I'm seven months pregnant or not over-stimulated by the TV but I have been REALLY tired at night and therefore, I am sleeping so deep I haven't had any crazy pregnancy dreams this week.

Limited TV Day 2

2011-02-21T13:41:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was day one of our little challenge and it went good. There were no major melt downs or desperate pleas for TV.

This morning started off with the news and Eli decided he wanted to be REALLY cranky so he went down for an early nap at 8:30. Once he went down I unloaded and loaded the dishwasher (always a nap time chore), and sorted laundry and started washing the mountain of laundy that had taken over our bedroom closet. Eli ended up sleeping for two hours! When he woke up we played for a little while then it was time for lunch! After lunch I attempted to clean the guest room but with little hands "helping" I didn't get much done. Once I gave up on the guest room we moved on to practicing coloring. We colored some pictures and practiced not eating crayons (it's still a work in progress).

Then, guess what? Eli got super cranky again. Lately, he hasn't been taking two naps but the rule in our house is, "Cranky babies go to bed." I put him down in his bed and we went right to sleep so he must have been tired. During his second nap I worked on some Scentsy stuff and read until he woke up.

There was no life altering revelation on day two. I'm not really expecting there to be but it's nice to know it can be done.

TV Challenge

2011-02-20T13:41:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I read an article about a family that went a week with limited TV viewing. They didn't do it to be super holy but instead to see if it was the cause of their son's sleeping issues. I was intrigued. I asked Chris what he thought about it and he was game to limit our TV viewing. I know of families that don't have TVs or don't have cable and props to them. We have a TV and basic cable in our house. I don't feel that we are addicted to TV. It is merely a crutch we lean on or noise in the background.

There are three main reasons we watch TV in our house:

1. When I want to dry my hair or put make up on I will turn on PBS and as long as someone is singing my son is interested in it leaving me the chance to quickly make myself presentable without having to pull Eli out of the closet or keep my lipstick out of his hands.

2. 3:00 is when Friends comes on TBS everyday and I love Friends. When it was on NBC originally we watched it religiously. 3:00 is usually when I take my good mommy break. Eli is usually eating a snack or playing with his toys and I'm watching Friends.

3. Relaxing. After Eli goes to bed Chris and I have our favorite shows we like to watch and just chill out. There is something to be said for being able to enjoy a TV show with no 1 year old screaming just because he can or the possibility of getting a ball thrown at your head.

After discussing it with Chris we decided that starting today and ending next Sunday we would watch the news in the morning, leave the TV off all day, and then watch only 1 hour at night after Eli has gone to bed. I know, it may not seem like much to you do-gooders that don't watch TV at all but it might turn out to be a pretty big deal for this family.

I think this will probably be hardest for me during the day with Eli. Don't get me wrong, he doesn't sit in front of a TV all day but, like I said earlier, it is often my way to keep him occupied while I attempt to do other things without his "assistance."

So far in Day 1 of our challenge it has not been difficult. We had the news on in the morning, then went to church, came home, ate lunch, and now Eli and Chris are napping and I'm updating this blog. I'll keep you posted how it goes!

Sequin Bible Review

2011-02-19T19:35:00.000-06:00

When I saw the opportunity to review a Bible with sequins I jumped on it! Something about God’s Word with sequins on it made me wish I was 8 years old again and beg my parents for this Bible because it looked so pretty. This was also my first Bible to review so I was pretty excited about that also.

Let me start by telling you what I like about this Bible. First, the International Children’s Bible (ICB) version is very child friendly. I reviewed several types of verses and all would be easy for a child to understand. In the back of the Bible is a simple Bible dictionary. It is not, by any means, a complex dictionary but if your daughter is interested in certain characters but doesn’t know where they are in the Bible, they are listed in this dictionary and also several nouns that are throughout the Old and New Testaments (altar, apostle, fellowship, etc). There is also a section entitled, “Where Do I Find It?” that includes: Advice to Children, The Last Supper, The Ten Commandments, etc. This section simply tells the girl the Biblical reference and page number, there is no definition or explanation. The last two sections include verses that are specifically targeted towards areas such as: Doing Good, My Happiness, Salvation, Scripture Memory, etc.

As much as I liked this Bible I feel Tommy Nelson Publishing missed a huge opportunity to get girls excited about reading their Bibles. This type of Bible would be perfect if it included some heavy weight, glossy pages that had some tidbits of information about young girls in the Bible and perhaps even a devotional or two wouldn’t hurt either. It was also unclear to me what age group they were targeting with this Bible. The cover would imply any girl with good taste but the language would imply it is for a much younger girl. After doing some research online I found that this version is primarily for a high third grade level reader.

In our home we have plenty of Bibles in tons of versions. I don’t agree with giving a child a version that is too complex to understand but I also don’t think a child should have a version that doesn’t really get to the meat of scripture either. I think this Bible would be perfect for an elementary age girl but once they approach middle school and older I think a different version is needed.

Thanks to Booksneeze for the complementary copy of this Bible for reviewing purposes.

The Next Christians Webcast

2011-02-17T12:20:00.000-06:00

A couple of months ago I reviewed a book titled, "The Next Christians," by Gabe Lyons. In an effort to get the word out to churches about this book he will be participating in a webcast with Tim Keller about this book and movement. If you have time today at 1:00 CST watch this conversation between these two men!

WaterBrookMultnomah on livestream.com. Broadcast Live Free

Additional Resources:
Gabe Lyon's Website
Blogging for Books

Harper at 28 Weeks

2011-02-17T11:13:00.000-06:00

Say it ain't so--two posts in one day! Yep! I have to update on each kiddo. Eli's haircut first then Harper's progress!

How far along: 28 Weeks

Size of baby: According to "What to Expect When You're Expecting," Harper is about the size of a head of cabbage and weighing about 3 lbs.
Total Weight Gain/Loss: +5 pounds. I don't weigh myself at home so I won't know if I've gained more weight until my next doctor's appointment.
Maternity Clothes: I still wear a couple of non-maternity shirts but all my pants are maternity or extremely stretchy! This far along in the pregnancy I really don't want to buy any more maternity clothes but I might have too.
Gender: Girl! Harper Lee Plunkett!
Movement: Harper is pretty active. She is not as active as Eli was but she's starting to move more and more. You can also see her move from the outside now.
Sleep: Once I fall asleep it is GOOD sleep and some crazy dreams! It is getting harder and harder to fall asleep though. But my doctor says I can take Tylenol PM so if I feel a sleepless night is approaching I will take one.
What I miss: Going a whole night without having to get up to go to the bathroom and not having heartburn 24 hours a day.
Cravings: I don't think I have super weird cravings but sometimes the mood strikes for ice cream or something. And I do love a good Coke Icee!
Symptoms: I have that annoying restless leg junk and sadly, I read that hot baths can sometimes make it worse so for a week I haven't taken a hot bath and I think it is better. I also have started getting heartburn from the moment I wake up. That's just not right especially, when you love Mexican food as much as I do.
Best moment this week: Getting the results of my glucose screening! "Perfectly normal," is exactly what the nurse said!
What's happening next: March 2nd is my next doctor's appointment.

Eli's Hair

2011-02-17T10:56:00.000-06:00

From the moment Eli was born he's had a full head of hair. It started out as dark brown, then it got lighter and curlier and longer as time went on. The crazier it got the more and more people asked when we were going to cut it. We never had a magic number in mind but we knew it was fast approaching.

Before

During

After

His hair is pretty curly so I'm seeing lots of haircuts in our future. Hopefully, he'll get better at sitting still.

16 Months Old!

2011-02-14T14:14:00.000-06:00

Can you believe Eli is 16 months old?! I can't! Here's the latest info on Eli Plunkett:

Clothes size: 18-24 months
Shoe size: 5-6
Diaper size: 5
Weight: 31 lbs
Length: No clue! At his one year check up he was 31 inches but I don't even want to try to measure him.

He is FINALLY starting to walk! I think he was so mobile before he didn't really need a reason to walk because he could crawl any where and climb on anything so who needs to walk? I was starting to feel bad about this because in his Sunday school class they promoted all the walkers and that left Eli in there with all these little kids--he's at least head taller than most of those kids. But I know if he was in the walker room he might get run over so I'm okay with it. I know he has no idea what is going on so it shouldn't bother me.

Eli is also your typical boy. He plows over anything in his way, throws anything that remotely looks like a ball, and knocks over anything he can reach just because he wants to. Around our house we call him, "Tornado." The other day he realized he could knock over his chair in the living room so now he does it all the time. It wouldn't bother me if the chair wasn't 30 years old already so pretending it's a wrestling bag makes me kind of nervous. If the budget and my conscience can ever line up Eli will have his own living room chair that's not so old.

He also LOVES music! Anytime music is on TV he is "dancing," (bending his knees to move up and down). Drumming is also a favorite activity. Anything with a flat surface gets drummed on. Apparently, Justin Bieber started out as a drummer so we'll see.... Who needs to be President of the United States anyways?

I think that's about it for Eli right now!

Lioness Arising, by Lisa Bevere

2011-02-08T20:58:00.000-06:00

I’ll be honest; this book had been on a list of potential book reviews for awhile. I never chose to review it because the title, “Lioness Arising,” just sounded like such a cheesy title. I still feel that way. Even the women on the back of the book that endorsed it did not make me want to read this book. But what caught my attention on the back cover was, “God did not save you to tame you.” My current stage in life allows me to meet with several college students and occasionally I come across girls that feel as Christian females they are to be doormats--doormats for their future husbands, doormats for their roommates, and even doormats for their church.

Lisa Bevere’s, “Lioness Arising,” starts off with her awakening while raising children and wondering if there was more for her and the comparison of the lioness begins. In chapter one she states, “I would just smile, content that I was no longer a frightened, timid, domestic cat.” Later on in chapter one you almost get on board with the lioness comparison when she says, “More than any other creature, the lioness makes me proud to be a female. There is no doubting her strength. I also imagine there is no creature that makes a man prouder to be a male than the lion. The lion is the king of the jungle, and there is no question about who is the queen.”

Chapter three is where Bevere addresses the reason I chose to review the book in the first place. Referring to Luke 4:18-19 she states, “ If the Spirit of God was placed on Jesus to do all these things, and if we are born of this same Spirit, then we are to do as he did—preach the good news to the poor, set the burdened and battered free… In light of this charge, God does not need a band of domesticated daughters who spend their days baking and behaving well.” Then she goes on to give biblical examples of women God chose to change history, Deborah, Jael, Tamar, Esther, etc.

Bevere concludes her book a reminder that the lion we are following is Jesus. We are not to fear our future because the author of life is leading us. The last chapter begins appropriately with a quote by Winston Churchill, “I was not the lion, but it fell to me to give the lion’s roar.”

Thanks to Blogging for Books for a complementary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

It's That Time of Year Again!

2011-02-04T22:01:00.000-06:00

Tonight Chris and I are watching a Barbara Walters special about some famous people that have had open heart surgery. It reminded me that February is Heart Health Awareness Month! It also reminds me of the very real statistic that heart disease is the number 1 killer of women. Below is a post I did about this time last year:

So I may not be an uber health freak but one health issue I always keep on my mind is heart disease. A couple of years ago my Granny Lila went in for a simple procedure that turned into quad-bypass that later resulted in her passing away.

The kicker about my Granny Lila dying of heart disease was that on the outside you would never guess she had a heart issue. She was a picture of health for a woman in her seventies. You never know who could have heart problems.

The website that has the most heart information is http://www.americanheart.org/. It is the American Heart Association's website.

Last year I attempted to post something everyday about heart health. Pretty sure I won't be doing that this year but it is no reason at all you can't look into some things on your own. For example, the symptoms women have with heart disease is different than men. Most women never have the infamous chest pains. But they will experience fatigue and breathlessness. I know, what woman is not tired at the end of the day. In my, non-medical background, opinion when women go in for their normal yearly exams they should go ahead and have a physical done. Most insurance companies will pay for a physical. And if heart disease runs in your family paying for a physical is always cheaper than paying for bypass surgery.

#2 (Harper) at 26 Weeks

2011-02-01T19:06:00.000-06:00

How far along: 26 Weeks
Size of baby: According to "What to Expect When You're Expecting," Harper is about the size of a cucumber.
Total Weight Gain/Loss: +5 pounds. Yes, Dr. Anna told me she only wanted me to gain 2 pounds but I was pretty proud that I only gained 5. She was pretty happy too.
Maternity Clothes: My pants are always maternity or belly band but not all my shirts are maternity...yet.
Gender: Our doc says she never goes 100% so she's 95% sure we're still having a girl! Harper Lee Plunkett! No, she is not named after the author.
Movement: Harper is pretty active. She is not as active as Eli was but she's starting to move more and more.
Sleep: Once I fall asleep it is GOOD sleep! It is getting harder and harder to fall asleep though. I just have so many things racing through my mind.
What I miss: Going a whole night without having to get up to go to the bathroom.
Cravings: A couple of weeks ago pound cake was on my mind but that craving got satisfied.
Symptoms: I have that annoying restless leg junk. I don't really remember it with Eli but I know it's pretty annoying.
Best moment this week: Only gaining 5 pounds instead of 15!
What's happening next: Next week I have my diabetes screening--Yuck!

Harper's Wish List

2011-01-31T19:39:00.000-06:00

Don't misunderstand this post. When I found out I was pregnant with a boy I was just so happy he was healthy and we could quit calling him, "it." Then I quickly realized cute boy stuff, that I liked, was hard to find! I love little boy clothes that look like little man clothes and those are hard to come by on my budget. So when I found out I was pregnant a second time I had two sides: 1 side wanted a boy just because we had boy stuff already and 1 side wanted a girl because girl stuff is just so crazy cute and so easy to find! Well, the second side won that battle! Harper's on her way!

I haven't bought a lot of stuff for her but I have been window shopping! On Etsy! Dangerous! Below is some of the cutest stuff I've seen on Etsy for baby girls!!!

Seriously! Bright fabric, ruffles, applique! All in one blanket! Don't worry, I've already warned my mom.

I don't know why but these headbands with feathers just get me everytime!

I'm not really sure how safe this is just because Eli would have figured out how to pull this metal clip off and stick it in his mouth but it sure looks cute!

I know, I know! These shoes are an acquired taste. I've acquired the taste for them!

Another headband with feathers!!

The most dangerous part about all this Etsy window shopping is I have an app for that! When I get bored I just look at my Handmade app and surf Etsy and e-mail my mom all the cute stuff I find.

The Faith by Charles Colson

2011-01-26T09:45:00.002-06:00

A while back I was in the mood to read something with a little substance. I wanted to read something that left me feeling smarter when I finished it. While scrolling through Zondervan’s books I came across, “The Faith,” by Charles Colson. Since I had never read any Colson books I decided to give it a try. When it arrived my husband decided he wanted to read it first.

Reader, be warned, there is a lot of information in this book. I did not finish it near as quickly as I normally finish books. The three main questions the book answers are: what do Christians believe, why do they believe it, and why does it matter. Even though there is a lot of information in the book it is not overwhelming. It is broken into two parts, and then chapters and even the chapters are broken down into sections. Therefore, if you are like me and can’t get through an entire chapter in one sitting you can, at least, get through a section in a chapter.

Colson starts his book off with “God and The Faith,” and draws from personal travels with his wife to discuss church history. Don’t get lost in this section. Keep going. His first chapter ends with the question, “How can a Christianity that is not understood be practiced?” He follows up that question with chapter two discussing who exactly God is. He continues throughout the book discussing the Canon, truth, the Trinity, and the cross. Part II of the book has more application discussing holiness in everyday life, the sanctity of life, justice, and of course the joy of orthodoxy. While reading this book I was reminded of John Piper’s, “Desiring God,” in the way it was written, briefly covering a multitude of topics every Christian needs to be familiar with.

If you are interested in purchasing this book or downloading the free study guide that accompanies it please visit Zondervan.com.

Special thanks to Zondervan for the complementary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

My Favorite {FREE} iPhone Apps

2011-01-16T21:16:00.000-06:00

I postponed getting my iPhone for quite some time simply because I didn't want to pay for it but I finally gave in and paid the extra dough for one. Since I paid a pretty penny for this cell phone I am attempting to get the most bang for my buck so I have downloaded, experimented, and deleted several apps. Here are my current favorites:

All Recipes Dinner Spinner

This app gives you the ability to search their database for recipes and you can save them to your favorites to reference again and again when you need them.

CT Mobile

Christianity Today's app updates daily with articles from their magazine, blog posts, and entertainment reviews. You can also update Twitter and Facebook with what you just read straight from the app.

TV Guide

At our house we only have basic cable so we don't have the fancy guide button on the remote. This app quickly allows you to find out what's on TV. You can also save your favorite TV shows so you know when they come on other channels and also change your location. For instance, we have Suddenlink cable here, in Bryan, but when we went to Arkansas for Christmas I was able to change it to my parent's satellite provider.

Amazon

Anyone that knows me knows I'm a big fan of Amazon! I like their app because you can update and modify your Amazon account from your phone. But my favorite part is you can scan bar codes in stores to see if Amazon has that item cheaper. Yes, I did use this app on Black Friday.

Starbucks

The Plunkett's are big coffee fans so a Starbucks app was bound to be downloaded. There are a couple of things about the app but my favorite is you are able to locate the nearest Starbucks and once you find it you can find out if they are still open, if they serve food, have wifi, or a drive thru.

Focus Daily

The Focus on the Family app allows you to listen to their daily broadcasts when ever you want. I can scroll through the previous week's broadcasts and listen to whatever I want whenever I want. You can also update your Facebook with what you are listening to.

What to Expect: Pregnancy

You can imagine what this app is about. It is the companion to the best selling book, "What to Expect When You're Expecting." If you input your due date you can get daily updates and weekly updates about your pregnancy and how your baby is growing.

Urbanspoon

This app would have been really great before we had kids and we could just go out to eat whenever we wanted. Be that as it may, now we are tied to Eli's schedule but this app is still handy when you want to know more about a restaurant before you get there: Will they deliver? Can I see the menu? What are the prices?

Redbox

Who doesn't love $1.00 movie rentals?! Wouldn't you also love to sit in your recliner, search your local Redbox, and reserve your movie from your phone? Well, with the Redbox app you can do that! Now if you could just have the movie delivered to your house that would be great!

IMDb

You know when you are watching something and you say, "What was the other movie that guy was in?" With IMDb's app you can find out! You can also watch movie trailers and find show times for movies...if you don't have a 1 year old, that is.

AIR 1

When we lived in Arkansas one of the radio stations I listened to was Air 1 Radio. It is actually a nationwide station but, for some reason, we never get it any where in Texas. Basically, you can listen to the radio live from your phone and also set your alarm to be Air 1.

GH @ Home

The Good Housekeeping app allows you to search solutions to clean those gross food stains off your toddler's clothes, search their database of room ideas, and read their Twitter feed. The cool thing about this app is when you look at their room ideas you can save them as a photo to your phone so if you are out and about you can always reference back to your phone instead of going off your memory for that cool idea you saw.

Handmade

Last time I checked you had to pay for the real Etsy app but who needs the real app when you have this great substitute for free. From this app you can update Facebook, Twitter, and also e-mail the items you like.

Talking Roby

If you have kids this is a cool app because it entertains for a little while. This app has a talking robot that repeats what you say and moves when you tap him and eventually if you keep tapping him he will fall down. My son is en awe for a little while when this robot repeats his dada's and mama's.

Pottery Barn

Most people I know that get Pottery Barn catalogs in the mail don't actually order items from Pottery Barn they only get it to fill their house with Pottery Barn knock offs. So instead of toting that catalog in your purse just keep it on the phone for handy reference.

GeoQpons

Sorry, I couldn't find a link that talked about this app but so far I like it. Of the other coupon apps I've seen/used I like this best. You can add your favorite stores to your favorites so you don't have to scroll through the insanely long list for the store you're looking for. Most stores will also scan the actual app instead of making you have a printed coupon...which is the point in having coupons on your phone-right?

Target

Seriously, why wouldn't you have a Target app? You can view/manage your own registries or lists from your phone, view their weekly ads and/or the daily deals.

Of course, I have Facebook and Twitter apps too but I shouldn't even have to talk about those. Right? There are also a ton of cool apps you can pay for but I already paid for the phone why would I want to pay for apps when I already paid for my phone?

I know some of you are thinking you can do all this same stuff from your laptop in the living room so you don't need these apps. But I have an insanely slow computer so the fact that I can do these things from my much faster phone makes me happy.

A Billion Reasons Why, by Kristin Billerbeck

2011-01-14T19:34:00.000-06:00

If you are looking to escape the bitter winter with some Christian romance fantasy Kristin Billerbeck's latest book as your name all over it. "A Billion Reasons Why," follows your typical Christian chick-lit genre: good Christian girl with sketchy past must decide between two Christian guys while getting advice from her good Christian friend. And of course, let us not forget she must choose between a billionaire and an engineer.

What makes this book a little different is the main characters spend most of their time in New Orleans, which always makes for interesting stories in any genre. Billerbeck does a good job of making her characters likable so, at some level, you do feel sorry for the guy she rejects. But not so sympathic you can’t be happy for the choice she makes in the end. Occasionally, I did find it annoying that the main character did appear to be a push-over at times but what would chick-lit be without at least one push-over in the character mix.

I read/review mostly non-fiction books but every once in a while a fiction makes it way into the mix simply for entertainment. This book is not life changing; it did not make me want to better my life in any way what so ever. However, it was a good, quick read on a winter day when I didn’t want to leave the house.

Thanks to Booksneeze for the complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

She Did It!

2011-01-13T11:01:00.000-06:00

Anyone that knows my mom knows she is one talented lady. She can pretty much sew anything! She made both my prom dresses in high school along with a ton of dresses when I was younger. Then she started quilting and has made a ton of quilts too! Enjoy some pictures of things my mom has made for us!

This is a quilt she made Eli before he was born.
Sorry, this picture was taken with my phone so it's not top quality.

Eli's "I'm the BIG brother," t-shirt.
I'm pretty sure he'll need another one when Harper is born though.

Eli's 4th of July shirt.

Eli's name blocks to match the quilt!

Eli's Christmas t-shirt.

We also have diaper bags, bibs, and other shirts but I couldn't find pictures of those things! But never fear! My mom has FINALLY got her blog up and going! If you are interested in seeing more of her handy work check it out at: Gina's Sew Excited!

Tornado

2011-01-10T13:45:00.000-06:00

Unpredictable. Destructible. Those are the words most people use to describe a tornado. Recently Chris and I started calling our son a tornado for that very reason. Eli is not walking yet but who needs to walk when you can crawl anywhere you need to or climb on anything you want to get to.

First up was being able to climb into the rocking chair.
Granted he can't get out of this chair but he's pretty quick about getting in it these days.

The next day or two came the couch.
This was a moment of accomplishment for sure!
We usually keep the remote in the crack of the couch so once he figured out how to get up here guess what the first thing was he grabbed? Look at the right side of the picture.

There is still a recliner Eli hasn't figured out how to climb in but that doesn't mean he doesn't try. Everyday is a new adventure with Eli. He is all boy, without a doubt!

The Next Christians, by Gabe Lyons

2011-01-05T13:28:00.001-06:00

If you listen to certain circles of the media you would believe that Christians are fading into the background and young adults are leaving the Christian faith in droves. As pessimistic as that all sounds Gabe Lyons has written a book that is full of research and interviews that might surprise you.

In “The Next Christians,” Gabe Lyons summarizes research, interviews, and studies to make the case that the next Christians are not necessarily leaving their faith but they want something different. Right off the bat, in chapter one he tells a story of when he met the great Billy Graham and even he said, “Back when we did these big crusades in football stadiums and arenas, the Holy Spirit was really moving—and people were coming to Christ…But today, I sense something different is happening…They are demonstrating God’s love to those around them, not just with words, but in deed.”

Lyons does an excellent job of stating the facts but also remaining optimistic about Christianity’s future. His book is separated into three parts: The World is Changing, The Restorers, and A New Era. The first part seems to be mainly statistics, but the second and third parts seem to be the meat of the book. They explain what is making this new generation different. Not only do they want to learn about the faith and theology but they want to actively participate and “get their hands dirty,” helping other people groups.

Finally, in the last chapter, Lyons ends by optimistically saying, “Ready for tomorrow’s challenges, they turn toward the twenty-first century horizon with grace in their hands and the Gospel as their calling. They are restoring confidence in their faith and turning “Christian” into a label worthy of the one who has called them to restore.”

Reading this book should make you want to join them. Help your local college ministry by choosing to disciple, mentor, and walk alongside these the next Christians.

Thank you to Blogging for Books for providing a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

Picture Updates

2011-01-04T09:56:00.001-06:00

I know, I know! It's been awhile since I've put some pictures on here. Below I have some pictures of various happenings that have taken place recently...in no particular order:

First up: The Christmas card I failed to mail out! We had the picture taken in October but I was in no hurry to get them printed. Then the week before Christmas I got them printed but failed to mail them out. Too bad next year we'll have another kiddo or you know I would use this same picture!!

My husband, the angel. Chris was lowered from our church's ceiling to play the angel Gabriel in our Christmas program. He did a great job!

Eli at Steve's house the night of Christmas!

This is Steve's dog, Josie. Eli's pretty much in awe of any dog that doesn't run away from him like Parson does.

Eli eating Thanksgiving lunch. He had a stomach bug during the week of Thanksgiving so he was eating B.R.A.T food. The food you see in his mouth is a roll--he ate a lot of rolls.

Eli and his Uncle Jared. My aunt bought this shirt for Eli and it looked so good on him...as most things do.

I hesitate to even put this picture on our blog because I don't want a bunch of mean mommies leaving nasty comments. But last night we went to check on Eli before going to bed and this is what we found! He was very soundly asleep. Eli's daddy did move him to the correct position without even waking him up! I know bumper pads would solve this problem but Eli started using his bumper pads as a way to try and climb out of his crib so we took them out.

I think that is a good summary of everything that has gone on around our lives! We hope you all had some happy holidays and are off to a great new year!

#2 at 22 Weeks

2011-01-03T20:19:00.000-06:00

How far along: 22 Weeks

Size of baby: According to "What to Expect When You're Expecting," #2 is about the size of a papaya and according to Dr. Anna she weighs about a pound now!
Total Weight Gain/Loss: 0 pounds. I am now back to my pre-pregnancy weight thanks to the holidays and not being sick! My doc says she wants me to only gain 2 lbs before my next appointment. I did laugh out loud when she said that.
Maternity Clothes: My pants are always maternity or belly band but not all my shirts are maternity...yet.
Gender: Our doc says she never goes 100% so she's 95% sure we're still having a girl! Boy, am I glad! We dropped a pretty penny on some fabric for her bedding while we were in Arkansas for Christmas!
Movement: Harper is pretty active. She is not as active as Eli was but she's starting to move more and more. She was also moving a lot during her ultrasound!
Sleep: Once I fall asleep it is GOOD sleep! I have had some pretty crazy dreams too!
What I miss: Going a whole night without having to get up to go to the bathroom.
Cravings: Here lately I've been drinking a lot of red Gatorade. I haven't really had any crazy cravings. I'm just glad eating doesn't make me sick any more.
Symptoms: I'm pretty emotional right now. Once I start crying stopping is hard. And of course it is really dumb things that make me cry.
Best moment this week: Hearing Dr. Anna say, "I'm 95% sure it's a girl."
What's happening next: February 1st is our next doctor's appointment and maybe a diabetes test--I can't remember.

#2 at 20 Weeks

2010-12-20T10:24:00.000-06:00

How far along: 20 Weeks

Size of baby: According to "What to Expect When You're Expecting," #2 is about the size of a large banana.
Total Weight Gain/Loss: -8 lbs from my pre-pregnancy weight. I'm not weighing myself at home, I'm going strictly by the doctor's scales so I won't know if I've gained weight until our next appointment. I'm pretty sure I have because my appetite is back!
Maternity Clothes: Eventhough I have actually lost weight my stomach is getting bigger and I finally broke down and bought a pair of maternity jeans last week. My dependable Gap Long & Leans are starting to give out so I figure I better buy some before I have a wardrobe malfuction.
Gender: Out of the goodness of her heart our doctor went ahead and took peek at our last appointment (3 weeks before she really wanted to) and she said she's 80% sure it's a girl! We'll have another ultrasound in January to confirm. But if it is a girl her name is Harper Lee Plunkett!
Movement: I feel her move more and more but you can't really feel her from the outside yet.
Sleep: Once I fall asleep it is GOOD sleep! I have had some pretty crazy dreams too!
What I miss: Going a whole night without having to get up to go to the bathroom.
Cravings: Me and potatoes are good buddies. Any kind of potato: baked, fried, mashed, whatever!
Symptoms: Instead of being totally exhausted everyday it's just every couple of days now.
Best moment this week: Being able to, without a doubt, feel Harper move!
What's happening next: January 3rd is our next doctor appt and another ultrasound!

I Heart Reading

2010-12-17T11:59:00.000-06:00

Most of my friends know I love to read! I'll read just about anything. My love affair with reading started with literary classics such as Sweet Valley High and Babysitter's Club, of course. My senior year of high school I was introduced to Christian fiction and thus an obsession of Christian book reading began (thank you, Robin Jones Gunn). At some point I started reading biographies and non-fiction books. Since then my fiction reading has become almost non-existent.

I left the "chick lit" genre almost completely because I was meeting girls that were reading these stories of fiction and setting unrealistic expectations for themselves and their future husbands. That's when I moved on to suspense fiction (aka Ted Dekker). I think I like his books because they are quick reads. I can usually read one in a day or two and get my fiction kick out of my system and move on.

Recently, I was in the mood to read some fiction. The books I had been reviewing/reading required me to have a pen in a my hand therefore, they weren't exactly easy reads. Off I went to Barnes and Noble to search for a fiction book. Now, when I get in these moods I have some guidelines:

1. Paperback or clearance-I don't want to pay $20.00 for a fiction book
2. Something I can sell back to Half Price Books because I don't keep fiction books after I read them
3. Not a series-I don't want to get sucked into some crazy long book series

Unlike so many of my friends and family I cannot simply sit and read fiction very often. The entire time I'm reading it I'm thinking, "What else could I be doing? What am I learning from this book? Is this a waste of my time?" Needless to say, my trip to Barnes and Noble did not produce a new fiction book but yet, "Discipline," by Elizabeth Elliott...how appropriate for the beginning of 2011.

#2 at 17 Weeks

2010-12-01T12:56:00.000-06:00

How far along: 17 Weeks

Size of baby: According to "What to Expect When You're Expecting," #2 is about the size of a sweet potato.
Total Weight Gain/Loss: -8 lbs from my pre-pregnancy weight.
Maternity Clothes: Whenever I can't button my pants I pull out the maternity jeans. It's really about comfort!
Gender: Out of the goodness of her heart our doctor went ahead and took peek today (3 weeks before she really wanted to) and she said she's 80% sure it's a girl! We'll have another ultrasound in January to confirm. But if it is a girl her name is Harper Lee Plunkett!
Movement: I haven't felt "her" move from the outside but according to her ultrasound she's moving plenty!
Sleep: Once I fall asleep it is GOOD sleep! I have had some pretty crazy dreams too!
What I miss: Going a whole night without having to get up to go to the bathroom.
Cravings: Me and potatoes are good buddies. Any kind of potato: baked, fried, mashed, whatever!
Symptoms: Instead of being totally exhausted everyday it's just every couple of days now.
Best moment this week: DUH! Being told we are more than likely having a girl! Don't get all huffy! If we found out we were having a boy we would still be excited!
What's happening next: January 3rd is our next doctor appt and another ultrasound!

On This Day in Christian History, by Robert Morgan

2010-11-30T19:33:00.000-06:00

For the history buff in everyone Robert Morgan has written a daily dose of Christian history in, “On This Day in Christian History.” Reading this book everyday is like uncovering a hidden gem in Christian history. Some days will be repeated stories that tend to be more popular than others, such as Martin Luther’s “disputation on the power and efficacy of indulgences,” on October 31st. However, some may not know the story of William Carey on March 12th or Hugh MacKail on November 28th.

Each day is only one page long so there is time to read and enjoy that morning cup of coffee without feeling rushed. However, you might find yourself wanting to read more so give yourself a little time. Each day is written is such a way Morgan gives some background before diving into the day’s history so you won’t feel completely blindsided by empty information.

Thank you to Booksneeze for providing a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

The Questions Christians Hope No One Will Ask, by Mark Mittelberg

2010-11-19T20:55:00.000-06:00

“How could a good God allow so much suffering?” “Why are Christians so judgmental?” “Why trust the Bible? It’s full of myths?” Those are only three of the nine questions asked and answered in, “The Questions Christians Hope No One Will Ask,” by Mark Mittelberg. All nine questions addressed in this book are questions most Christians have heard either directly from someone they know or indirectly on television or in news articles. Sadly, most Christians have no idea how to answer these questions or they will answer using a cliché, canned phrase they heard someone else say, leaving the seeker still seeking for a real answer.

Enter Mittelberg’s book. The author has taken nine questions and answered each one with biblical truth, real life examples, and hard facts. Each chapter also ends with a summary and tips when talking to the person that asked the question. Several books in this genre do an excellent job of explaining the answers but very few give you actual tips and application points.

The final chapter of the book is titled, “The questions our friends need us to ask them.” Mittelberg ends his book with an evangelical message reminding the readers why it is important to have answers for these sticky questions. “I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes. (Romans 1:16).”

Thanks to Tyndale Publishing for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes.

Surprised by Worship by Travis Cottrell

2010-11-16T20:27:00.000-06:00

Reading worship books written by worship leaders is like getting inside the mind of a brain surgeon. They have the “simple” task of leading God’s people to perfect communion with Him…no pressure. Reading, “Surprised by Worship,” by Travis Cottrell (worship leader for Living Proof Ministries) seemed like a backstage pass into his soul.

The beginning of every chapter starts by Cottrell defining a term, such as “surprise,” or “joy,” etc. It only seems fitting that “surprise” is the word defined in chapter one. Cottrell ends chapter one by saying, “Sometimes the most breathtaking surprises are mysteriously sublime, like the beauty of worship in the most unexpected of places.” That sentence seems to set the tone for the remainder of the book.

Throughout the book the reader is reminded of Cottrell’s respect of worship. Some chapters you can hear his voice saying the words and you might even hear a crack in his voice because, by his own admission, he cries a lot. The reader will sense his emotions about the words he defines in each chapter. His emotions ring clear in this book and crystal clear in his last chapter. He ends the book perfectly by defining, “surrender,” and saying, “When we surrender, we might just find ourselves surprised that our offering has brought us where we belonged all along…worshiping at the feet of Jesus.”

Thank you Zondervan publishing for providing a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

My Truth Project

2010-11-16T15:07:00.000-06:00

This semester in our ladies Bible study I'm doing The Truth Project. It is a video series that is sponsored by Focus on the Family and when the video is over we break up into small groups and discuss it. From the beginning of the study I have been praying that God would show me what He wanted me to learn. Doing The Truth Project as a Bible study is a bit complicated for me because sometimes I feel like I need to go read an American History book then I might be ready to discuss what they talk about in the video. I have also been pondering on the small group God put me in. I love hearing different view points about topics and getting to know women I wouldn't meet any where else. I'm sure my husband loves it too because when he comes home I'll rack his brain about our discussions too.

But today was different for me. Like I said, throughout the study I've been wondering what I am supposed to learn from this except the fact that I don't know enough American history. It was as if I finally saw the writing on the wall today. While listening to women speak passionately about Christians not standing up for what they believe my thoughts automatically went to Christ's love. There must be a balance between showing Christ's love and taking a stand. People are often turned off by all Christians because of the hand full that protest at military funerals, bomb abortion clinics, or have book burnings. None of those things show Christ's love. It makes me sad to think non-Christians look at those things and put us all under that umbrella. Even as I typed the words, "non-Christians," I'm reminded they are not simply a people group. They are a people group that will spend eternity away from Christ. The One that can truly love them more than they ever imagined. The One that can bring true peace and hope to their life. The One.

#2 at 14 Weeks

2010-11-08T22:03:00.000-06:00

How far along: 14 Weeks

Size of baby: According to "What to Expect When You're Expecting," #2 is about the size of a naval orange.
Total Weight Gain/Loss: -13 lbs, hopefully, now that the 2nd trimester is in full swing I will start to get my appetite back and stop getting sick!
Maternity Clothes: Whenever I can't button my pants I pull out the maternity jeans. It's really about comfort!
Gender: We'll probably find out sometime in December. But if we are comparing pregnancies I am a lot sicker this time around so it might be a girl.
Movement: Nope
Sleep: Once I fall asleep it is GOOD sleep! I have had some pretty crazy dreams too!
What I miss: Going a full week without getting sick...or better yet a whole day.
Cravings: Those .99 chicken sandwiches at Wendy's are quite tasty these days. Last time around I couldn't stand chicken but this time it's okay.
Symptoms: VERY sleepy in the afternoons!
Best moment this week: Being able to lay down in the afternoons and not feel bad about it.
What's happening next: December 1st is our next doctor's appt.

Sanity

2010-11-04T12:09:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I tweeted about a song that would forever be my anthem during motherhood. The song is called, "Mystery," by Charlie Hall. The first two lines of the song are my favorite:

"Sweet Jesus Christ my sanity

Sweet Jesus Christ my clarity."

It seems lately the lies of the world are infiltrating everything. We hear so often how we need to live for ourselves, make ourselves happy, buy this thing and your life will be so much easier, buy these clothes and you'll feel better about yourself, have this surgery to make you feel good about yourself, read this book, buy this CD, hear this speaker, and on and on it goes. I know the word, "lies," sounds a bit hard core but they are lies. The only satisfaction we can ever have in life will come from Christ.

Throughout my life I have had some awesome opportunities to meet girls in all stages of life. When we lived in Arkansas I taught a Sunday School class with great girls that I still keep in contact with and see God doing great things in their lives. After we moved to Texas I worked with a friend of ours doing Disciple Nows for smaller churches. My friend would organize everything and bring all the help and I always worked with senior high girls. God really blessed those weekends because these girls didn't know me from Adam yet inevitably every weekend God would put a girl in my life that was sadly believing the lies of the world, or some cases the lies her own family told her, and she would be seeking. She was seeking for something, anything to fill the loneliness in her heart. Since moving to College Station I get to walk side-by-side a couple of girls as they search God's will for their lives. I also have the opportunity to meet other mothers through Bible studies and other events. These girls and mothers are no different than anyone else. Christians are not immune to wanting easy answers. We would all love for God to write the answers to our questions on the wall in black spray paint so there would be no wondering if we were doing the right thing.

However desperate we may be in our lives at all ages we are always seeking. Like the song above says to me, "Sweet Jesus Christ my sanity." He is our sanity in this crazy world. He is the one that will bring true clarity to your life. Seek His face and you will find His peace, His comfort, and His hope. I truly believe God wants to see us seek Him because He knows it is where we will find true contentment.

Medical Bills

2010-10-28T14:34:00.000-05:00

So in my former life I was a Collections/Customer Service Lead for St. Joseph, in Bryan. Let me tell you if I heard one story I've heard them all about hospital collection techniques, how mean they are, how dumb they are, how nice they are, on and on. As some of my friends know I am always more than willing to help them with their medical bills because it can be very confusing if you do not know what you are doing or if you are not paying attention. Here are my tips when you are trying to work with a provider (hospital or doctor's office) regarding your bills:

1. Get organized. Keep all your bills, itemized statements, EOBs (explanation of benefits), etc in one folder, or drawer in some cases. For instance, I have all the bills relating to Eli's delivery in one folder in date order and when one is paid in full it goes in a binder clip in the back of the folder. This way only items not in the binder clip are things I need to worry about. Also, if you are disputing something with your bill and you show up at the hospital's business office with nothing but your most recent bill it will take them longer to assist you because they will have to look everything up for you. Occasionally, the patient will receive their EOB before the hospital does so they might not have everything you have.

2. Communicate. If you are struggling financially or just can't afford to pay your bill quickly ignoring it will not make it go away. You need to call the hospital/doctor's office and tell them what is going on and express to them that you are trying to pay your bills. Ask them what the smallest amount they will take to keep it from going to collections. Using my own bills as an example, I explained to all the providers that I am paying everyone the same amount and when one gets paid off I will increase my payment and I tried to give them a date. Example, "I can pay you $25.00 a month until September then I can increase to $100.00 until the bill is paid." Most of the time, if you are able to tell them dates they are more sympathetic about assisting you.

3. Be nice. Believe me, I know it is frustrating to pay large amounts of money to a hospital or doctor when it probably was not an experience you enjoyed, like a vacation. However, I can tell you from experience, customer service reps (and their supervisors) are more likely to assist someone that is nice than someone that starts a conversation off like, "I know you are just trying screw me over!" You would not believe some of the tackiness I encountered from patients that stormed in my office wanting immediate results or free medical care. Before you get upset at me for taking the hospital's side I understand frustration and feeling like you have no options but before you jump to conclusions and assume people are out to get you listen to what they have to say. Again, personal experience, I received a call on Christmas Eve or the day before, I can't remember but it was an agency wanting me pay my bill off that day. Needless to say, in my nicest voice, I explained that I had already mailed a payment that month and I would not be paying my balance off the day before Christmas. I would call them back in January. I could have been very rude to them but I felt sorry for them having to work so close to Christmas and I knew they were trying to increase collections before the end of the year.

4. Ask. If you are confused by your balance or anything on your bill call the hospital/doctor's office. It is their job to know how to help you. If you feel you are not getting the response or the help you wanted feel free to ask for their supervisor and say, "Thank you for explaining that but I might need to talk to your supervisor to understand it better." Do not say, "Well, you are clearly stupid. Let me talk to someone else." Also, if you have some cash stashed up and you are really close to being able to pay your bill off ask them if they can settle it. Sometimes, not always, if you can pay in cash they will settle for 20% or more off your bill. But you will never know unless you ask. Some hospitals have very strict polices on this and might not be able to settle an account but if you don't ask you will never know. One of the doctor's Eli saw while in the NICU gave us 50% off our bill if we could pay it in 10 days. Done!

I hope this helps some people. I know it can be confusing and the more you go to the doctor the more confusing it can be. If you ever need any help or clarification with anything feel free to ask me anytime.

#2 at 12 Weeks

2010-10-27T14:31:00.000-05:00

Technically I won't be 12 weeks until Friday but Eli's taking a nap so why not update a little early?

How far along: 12 Weeks
Size of baby: According to "What to Expect When You're Expecting," #2 is about the size of a large plum.
Total Weight Gain/Loss: -10, don't worry once that 2nd trimester is in full swing it will come back!
Maternity Clothes: I did wear a maternity dress to a wedding this weekend because I needed one dress to wear to two weddings (one, last weekend and the other is in December).
Gender: We'll probably find out sometime in December. But if we are comparing pregnancies I am a lot sicker this time around so it might be a girl.
Movement: Nope
Sleep: Once I fall asleep it is GOOD sleep!
What I miss: Being able to stay fully awake all day long. When the afternoon rolls around I am exausted!
Cravings: Those .99 chicken sandwiches at Wendy's are quite tasty these days. Last time around I couldn't stand chicken but this time it's okay.
Symptoms: VERY sleepy in the afternoons! I get more sick with this one that I did with Eli too.
Best moment this week: Hearing #2's heartbeat! 152 beats per minute--music to my ears!
What's happening next: December 1st is our next doctor's appt.

More Water

2010-10-25T16:20:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for a reason to drink water let me give you one:

10 Days is a campaign one of our adopt a students (Jacob Lofland) is involved in. The premise is to drink water instead of your other normal beverages and instead of buying that drink, put the money towards wells for clean water. For more information visit 10days.cc.

The campaign lasts from October 25-November 3. And it's so easy to do. So far today my total is $1.25 towards the campaign. It's not much but I haven't left the house today.

The Grace of God by Andy Stanley

2010-10-20T20:51:00.001-05:00

“The Grace of God,” is Andy Stanley’s fifth book and some say his best book. Unlike his previous publications, “The Grace of God,“ is for everyone, not necessarily pastors or church leaders. The topic of God’s grace can sometimes be very complicated to explain but, like he does most things, Stanley takes the complicated and makes it uncomplicated.

While making the topic of grace easier for the everyday person Stanley starts at the very beginning—creation. In chapter one Stanley easily states, “We see from the very beginning of creation that God desires what is good for us. That’s grace.” He follows up grace during creation with how we are chosen, surprised, redeemed and finally saved by God’s grace.

The reader might finish chapter 13 and wonder, “What do I do now?” Stanley answers that question in the chapter he calls, “How Sweet the Sound.” He starts by discussing the tensions between laws and grace, justice and grace, and fairness and grace and recaps the story of the Prodigal Son from three view points: the lost son, the son at home, and the father. Stanley finishes off this book explaining grace is a gift. “You were lost and have been found. You were dead, and now you are alive. You were blind, and now you see. You said yes to his offer of grace. That’s the best news God will ever receive about you,” simply put.

Thanks to Thomas Nelson publishing for providing a completmentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes through Booksneeze.

Maternity Shopping

2010-10-20T10:57:00.000-05:00

Next to shopping for swimsuits I loathe shopping for maternity clothes. You would think it would be enjoyable because you get to buy new clothes because you are getting fatter and while you're pregnant is one of the only times it's okay to get fatter.
Here's my 3 pet peeves about maternity clothes:
1. They cost more than non-maternity clothes.
2. If they go on sale it's like 10% off and that's not really a sale in my book.
3. They are made cheap. The fabric they are made out of is thinner and therefore might not last another pregnancy.

Now, when I was pregnant with #1 I was in desperate need of clothes because I was literally out growing non-maternity clothes. I had managed to find some essentials (black pants, a couple of shirts) in College Station but I was tired of seeing the same clothes at my local stores. So off we went to the Houston Galleria. We went to every maternity store in the Galleria and I was empty handed and unhappy then we went to The Gap to look at baby clothes and there it was! My maternity mecca! I loaded up on maternity clothes at The Gap! Thank goodness those clothes will last for #2. The reason I love Gap maternity clothes: simplicity. I'm not really into big floral patterns on my giant stomach and that's what I kept finding at my local Motherhood Maternity. I also don't mind paying a little more for clothes if they are good quality and will last.

For #2 I'm pregnant in different seasons but I'm going to try to make my summer maternity clothes winter maternity clothes with a couple of changes.Being the cheapskate I am my favorite maternity purchase with #1 was the Bella Band! I bought a black one at Target and a white one at Motherhood Maternity. The white is total junk--it is not nearly as secure as the black one from Target. I can't remember how much it cost but the fact that I wore non-maternity jeans during my entire pregnancy with the Bella Band was a miracle all in itself!

#2 at 10 Weeks

2010-10-17T19:20:00.000-05:00

So when I was pregnant with #1 (aka Eli) I attempted to answer some questions on my blog about the pregnancy. Continuing with that tradition here are #2's questions:

How far along: 10 Weeks

Size of baby: At 8 weeks it was the size of a gummy bear and about an inch long
Total Weight Gain/Loss: -7 (thanks to a 2 week sinus infection mostly)
Maternity Clothes: Only when I'm crazy bloated!
Gender: We'll probably find out sometime in December
Movement: Nope
Sleep:  Once I fall asleep it is GOOD sleep!
What I miss:  Being able to take real medicine for a sinus infection
Cravings:  I had a pretty hard core craving for bacon a couple of weeks ago. I solved that dilemma by making bacon, biscuits, and gravy for dinner one night! Yummy!
Symptoms:  VERY sleepy in the afternoons! I get more sick with this one that I did with Eli too.
Best moment this week: Being able to breath out of my nose and not sleep with a humidifier on!
What's happening next: October 29th is a doctor's appt to hopefully HEAR the baby's heart beat!

One Year!!!

2010-10-14T16:19:00.000-05:00

Today is Eli's official birthday! One year ago at 3:20 a.m. our lives changed forever. And now we're in full swing of more change with #2 coming! So here's the scoop on Eli:

Clothes: 12-18 mos
Shoes: 4/5
Diapers: 4
Food: Everything and anything! He now likes bananas so he really does like everything now. He loves macaroni and cheese too!
Milestones: He is not walking but he pulls up on everything and walks along it and speed crawls everywhere! He gets everywhere he needs to go! When he gets excited he bangs his hands on whatever is close. He says, "dada" ALL THE TIME and growls. I think he growls because Parson growls at him so much he thinks it's what you are supposed to do. He can't read yet but he loves to eat books, if that means anything.

I think that's pretty much everything on Eli.

Colds and Parties

2010-10-11T13:11:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago Eli got a cold and then proceeded to pass it on to everyone in the house. As of today, I'm battling sinus headaches and blowing my nose all the time, Chris is on the mend, and Eli's almost 100%. If I wasn't in my first trimester I could take some actual medicine to help me get rid of this but until then all I can take is Tylenol. Which , as you know, does nothing for sinus headaches.

We also celebrated Eli's 1st birthday this past Saturday! Since his birthday was so close to the Aggie-Razorback game we decided to have his party early so we could combine the two. About an hour before kick off we had the birthday festivities and then we watched the game.

Eli wearing 1 year shirt!

Mr Mr in the wagon my parents got him!

He wasn't really sure about everyone singing to him and it was right before nap time.

Not really a fan of this cake either.

The family right before Eli's nap and kick off!

Once Eli went to take his nap it was about time for kickoff! True, we do live in Aggieland and love ministering to Aggies but when the Razorbacks play we have to support them. And the Razorbacks did win!

God and Football by Chad Gibbs

2010-10-06T13:28:00.000-05:00

“God and Football,” by Chad Gibbs is a humorous yet thought provoking book for anyone that enjoys the odd mix of God and SEC football. Gibbs starts the book off with, what he calls, “Preseason,” giving the reader the low down on how football, SEC football in particular, has shaped his life. He gives the reader a glimpse of his love affair with Alabama and/or Auburn football.

The book continues as he travels each week during the 2009 football season to a different SEC school for a home game. He is able to realize first hand he is not the only one obsessed with SEC football. Each week he attempts to meet a local minister in each college town and discuss the implications football has on their church. Several times in the book he mentions many churches don’t plan events on game weekends because they know attendance will not be good.

In Gibbs’ Postseason of the book he has the opportunity to meet with David Nasser, a die-hard Alabama fan, and Nasser ends their conversation by saying, “You know who I pray for? I’m praying for those fans who woke up the morning after the bowl game and realized despite the win, they still lack peace. Football is a great hobby, but a horrible god.”

As funny as this book is it is also a gentle reminder of the idols we all have whether it be Auburn, football, or the SEC.

Thanks Zondervan publishing for providing a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

One Hand, Two Hands, by Max Lucado

2010-09-27T14:15:00.000-05:00

"One Hand, Two Hands," by Max Lucado is a wonderful addition to any child's library. As only the preacher/author Max Lucado can do, this book not only introduces your child to their hands but also has application points for children of all ages. Lucado seamlessly transitions from hand introductions, to things a child does with their hands, to what their hands can do for others such as pick flowers, wipe tears, wash dishes, or pick up toys.

The reader will realize the concept seems a bit simplistic but even adults need a small reminder of things they can easily do for others. The best part of this children’s book is the list of practical tasks your child can do with their hands and the statement Lucado is poses to children and adults alike, “Think of ways your hands can be helping hands.”

Visually speaking, this book is great for kids. There are happy images on every page and even the page that suggests using hands to wipe tears shows a happy little girl hugging an elderly woman. The book was delivered with a dust jacket that, more than likely, will be removed for its own protection.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson publishing for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes.

Yes, He's a Boy

2010-09-22T10:06:00.000-05:00

Since he was in the womb practicing for a soccer tournament I have said Eli is all boy. This truth is more and more evident the older (and more active) he gets. A couple of months ago I read, "Bringing Up Boys," by Dr. James Dobson. In the very first chapter he says, "If a toddler can climb on it, he will jump off it. He will eat anything but food and loves to play in the toilet. He makes guns out of cucumbers or toothbrushes and likes digging around in drawers, pill bottles, and Mom's purse." Eli has done all those things except the gun/cucumber thing.

It's not my purse but he does think his diaper bag is quite interesting.

Playing under his bed just because he can.

Climbing on his pack and play to dig through the white laundry basket. The entire time I was cleaning out his room he was trying to get into this basket.

At his first Aggie football tailgate. Right after this picture was taken he ate a handful of dirt.

October 14th this little boy will turn 1 year old! It is crazy how fast it's gone by but I'm sure it will always be an adventure.

Good Girls Don't Have to Dress Bad by Shari Braendel

2010-09-20T08:57:00.000-05:00

Is this too revealing? Did I pay too much for it? Does it look good on me? Those are only a couple of questions women ask themselves when they get dressed in the morning. In her book, “Good Girls Don’t Have to Dress Bad,” Shari Braendel does an excellent job of addressing the way Christian women can dress to look their best. Immediately in the second paragraph of the introduction she says, “You have a responsibility as a Christian female to make sure that how you dress is a reflection of who you really are.” If you dress sloppy you might appear to other as sloppy. Is that the point you are trying to get across?

This book is full of advice on how to dress your specific body type, how to get the right hair cut for your face shape, even what glasses look good on your face, and yes, swimsuits too. The female reader will also be glad to see an entire chapter dedicated to undergarments and how important the right fit is. Once this book is completed it should take out all the guess work and time you spend getting ready and also once the reader realizes what colors and/or items look best on them there is no need to waste money on anything else.

The author bookends this read with scripture and spiritual wisdom to start you off on the right foot and also leave you with some parting wisdom in the end. In the last chapter she reminds the reader that beauty starts with knowing who God is.

Thank you to Zondervan publishing for providing a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

Comparison

2010-09-04T20:46:00.000-05:00

Let the comparing begin! Now that I'm pregnant a second time I'm already comparing the two pregnancies, "I didn't have this with Eli ... I had this with Eli ... etc." Last week a woman at church told me, "Now that you're going to have two kids you can't compare them with each other." I nodded, "yes," and said with a smile, "I know." Pretty sure that's like parenting lesson #1. But I accept most church lady tips with a smile and nod.

Fast forward a couple of days and I'm sitting in the waiting room (for an hour) at a dentist's office and wondering why all these other people are going back while I'm still sitting here! Again, I'm comparing my situation to theirs. Don't they know my son is with a sitter. Don't they know this waiting room is freezing. Don't they know I made an appointment for 1:30 not 2:30. And on and on.

I believe it is in our sinful nature to compare. However, I came across a series on a blog I read regularly and it referred to comparison as such a dirty word--envy. Ouch. Seriously, comparing myself to that other lady can't be envy...I'm just comparing myself to her. Honey, that is pretty much the exact definition of envy! In the series they talk about the story of Peter comparing himself to John (John 21:20-21) and basically the response Jesus gives Peter is, "what business is it of yours?" Trust me, that is a hard pill to swallow. But there is light at the end of your envy filled tunnel: No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11b

How do you walk uprightly? Well, our good buddy Peter answers that question in 1 Peter 2:1, "So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy, and all slander." Just put it away...just like your shove all that nasty food down your garbage disposal shove your envy in there too.

We can't envy and obey at the same time.

LOL with God by Pam Farrel and Dawn Wilson

2010-08-31T14:16:00.000-05:00

“LOL with God,” by Pam Farrel and Dawn Wilson was obtained out of a moment of boredom and that proved to be a mistake. There are some interesting items in the book such as the Text Helps that remind you to refer back to your Bible for additional guidance and the LOL section that tells the humorous stories women go through every day. It is nice to be reminded all women make mistakes and learn to laugh about them in the end.

What made the book disappointing was the constant reference to text messaging. For some reason I find it disheartening to compare time with God and text messaging valid in any environment. There did not seem to be substance as often as there were text message references. It is discouraging when books that are geared towards women almost seem as if they dumbing down the Gospel for women readers.

While this book was mainly a disappointment to read it was encouraging to read funny stories from other women and, perhaps not feel so bad about yourself.

Thank you Tyndale Publishing for providing a complementary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

It Happened

2010-08-27T13:28:00.000-05:00

Well, the Plunkett's are growing again! I have taken two tests, both saying positive so we're saying we're pregnant! I talked to our doctor today to schedule an appointment for Eli's 1 year check up and she said that she's guessing about 6 weeks along.

We are very excited. About two days after I had Eli someone asked me if I was ready for another one. I think they meant it as a joke but I said, "Sure, I could do that again." Thank you Mr. Epidural. I didn't have a bad pregnancy with Eli (except the 20 days of bed rest). Him being in the NICU was stressful but it was over almost as soon as it began. Now he's crawling all over the place and getting into everything.

Let me answer a couple of questions I know you are probably wondering about:

How far along are you? Probably about six weeks. Our first doctor's appointment is September 8th so maybe then we'll be able to pin point it better.

Do you want a boy or girl? I do not care either way. Part of me wants another boy just because I already have boy stuff and it would save some money but then part of me wants a girl because I see these cute little girls that just sit and play with their hands while my son is biting the ends off door stops. But Chris wants twin boys. He has always thought twins would be fun even after we're around twins he still wants them! I always have a fear of twins because Chris' great grandma had two or three sets of twins and no one has had twins since then.

Do you have names picked out? We do. But we probably aren't going to tell anyone until we know the sex.

Do you have any symptoms yet? What started the whole pregnancy test thing was the fact that I was cleaning house and got really dizzy and nauseous and I had to lay down. When Chris came out of the bedroom I told him what was going on and he said, "Do I need to go buy a pregnancy test?" Off he went to Walgreen's to buy a pregnancy test and Sprite. I took one test that night that was positive and I took another one the next morning and it was positive also.

I'll try to keep you updated!

Mr Mr Update!

2010-08-24T10:56:00.000-05:00

I am so bad about updating this blog when it comes to the boy. I put a lot of pictures on Facebook for his grandparents but I forget to put them on here too.

Here goes:
Eli turned 10 months old August 14th.
He weighs 21 lbs and he's 31 inches long.
He wears 12/18 months clothes.
He wears size 4 shoes.
He still sleeps through the night (7PM-7AM)
He's eating more and more "people" food (mac and cheese, turkey, cheese, Cheerios, corn, peas, green beans, carrots, peaches, applesauce, sweet potatoes, rice, and eggs). There is probably more but that's all I can think of right now.
He has 7 teeth (working on 8 and 9 right now)
He's not walking but he is pulling up on EVERYTHING. Nothing is safe in our house.

Enjoy some pictures of the cutest boy around!

Eli and Dad at a Brazos Valley Bombers game.

Drinking some apple juice.

Drinking some formula.

Getting used to the big boy toothbrush.

Closing his toolbox and realizing he doesn't know how to get it opened.

Standing at our favorite toy!

Brazilian Blowout

2010-08-19T12:22:00.000-05:00

Okay, maybe I'm just behind on the latest hair trends but have you heard of a Brazilian Blowout? Well, let me educate you:

Salons guarantee after a Brazilian Blowout your hair will be frizz free and manageable for 6-12 weeks, depending on how well you take care of it. Apparently, it is also humidity proof. Here is a before and after picture from the Brazilian Blowout website:

When I first read about these I thought that would be great for this mop I'm growing out. Not that I would be getting one anytime soon but I was thinking it would cost about $100.00. Well, guess how much they cost?

Go ahead. Guess.

$411.00! Now if you don't want the take home treatment that makes it last longer it's "only" $250.00. I wish I had a hidden camera when I heard that number. There I was driving along Texas Avenue in the lovely College Station when this very polite girl in a local salon says, "The full treatment is $411.00." Oh. My. Gosh. Are you comprehending that? Four hundred and eleven dollars....for a hair treatment...that doesn't last forever.

Needless to say, I won't be getting one. I think I'll just stick with my flat iron.

Beyond Opinion by Ravi Zacharias

2010-08-18T00:35:00.000-05:00

“Beyond Opinion: Living the Faith We Defend,” is an excellent resource for Christian apologetics. The book itself is very user friendly if the reader is using it for research purposes. The book is broke down in three parts then chapters within the parts. The chapters in the first part range in everything from Atheism to Eastern religions. Most of the chapters have a defined conclusion that reminds the reader of the main points of said chapter and also some application for their everyday life.

The reader of this book will be pleased to know that there are several ways in which to apply apologetics to their life. One chapter states, “Apologetics generally requires a thinking mind. But Christian apologetics demands more: a thinking head as well as a compassionate heart.” Each chapter consistently reminds the reader that Jesus came to love not hate those that were different than Him.

In the conclusion Zacharias approaches the reader as a friend he is having coffee with. While reading this chapter you sense that he is very passionate about his field but also very saddened by the people groups he writes about. The last sentence in this chapter is an excellent summary, “Such passion can only be carried out when it goes beyond opinion to conviction of the mind and soul.”

Thank you to Booksneeze for providing a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

Scentsy Update

2010-08-17T10:54:00.000-05:00

So are you wanting a free warmer?! Well, all you have to do is host a Scentsy party and you can get one! Scentsy has three types of parties you should know about!

1. Basket Party-this is like a catalog party. I give you a basket of all the sample scents, a couple of catalogs, and order forms. You take the basket to your office, break room, cubicle, where ever your little heart desires. You keep the basket for a week and at the end of the week you turn in all your money and orders. You still get all the same hostess rewards as a Home Party but without all the hassle of invitations, cleaning house, etc.

2. Home Party-this is a party that I come to and explain Scentsy products to all your friends one night or day. They will get to touch and smell everything Scentsy has to offer, make their orders and pay that night. Once I enter all the orders in the Scentsy system I will call you and let you know what rewards you earned.

3. Open House Party-this party is great if you have a new house to show off or any holiday you want to celebrate. I come to your house with all the Scentsy gear and display it. You invite all your friends and family for a drop in event and they can see and smell everything without having to listen to me explain it all. Some ideas I've had for Open Houses are: Tailgate Open House (come before the game and order your stuff and you serve some tail gate food), Fall Open House (have your house decorated for fall and we can showcase the fall products Scentsy has to offer), and of course Holiday Open House (all Christmas products will be showcased and all your favorite holiday food will be served). Just like all Scentsy parties you are still eligible for all the hostess rewards.

Lastly, if you want to buy Scentsy but don't want the pressure of hosting a party you can go to my website and order. Currently, I'm hosting a fundraiser for SHIP International. If you wish to support SHIP you can follow this link and order directly from the website. If you are local you can send me an e-mail letting me know what you want to order and you won't have to pay for shipping! I'm closing this fundraiser Friday, August 20 so if you want to order don't wait!

If you want to host a Scentsy party or have a Scentsy fundraiser shoot me an e-mail and we can work out the details!

It's Time to Wake Up!

2010-08-16T16:44:00.000-05:00

I'm going to preface this post with a disclaimer: I have NOT seen "Eat, Pray, Love," or read the book. I do not care to support either with my money.

Now on to the post:
I feel like I have seen the movie, "Eat, Pray, Love," simply because I saw Julia Roberts on Oprah and saw so many movie clips. After hearing about the movie and book I get a little scared that this is what some women think life is about. Watching the previews you get the idea that the main character is having a, what she thinks is, a boring life. What do you do when you're life gets boring? Go to Italy of course! In my life it may be Olive Garden but not Italy. I do notice in my own life when I get in a funk it usually always goes back to how much time I'm spending my Creator, or lack there of.

Julia Robert's character says at one point, "I want to go some place where I can marvel." When you want to marvel at something go outside and see creation, look at your kids and remember where they have come from, marvel at God's creation not man's creation of temples and gods and such. It saddens me to think people will watch this movie and think they can find true happiness by following the example of this book or movie.

If anyone belongs to Christ, there is a new creation. The old things have gone; everything is made new! All this is from God. Through Christ, God made peace between us and Himself. 2 Corinthians 5:17-18

Ultimate freedom comes from Christ...not from world travels or Italian food or hot guys. It comes from the Creator of the universe, the life giver, the faithful Father, the beginning and end...God.

Hair Affair

2010-08-14T19:49:00.000-05:00

So I've been growing my hair out for the charity Beautiful Lengths. I have two more inches to go before I make the big chop! Man, am I ready! I had a dream the other night I got my hair cut really short just to make an eight inch ponytail. I was thinking about having a contest on this blog for my followers to pick my haircut but then that scared me because what if you picked something I didn't really like? Then I thought about just asking the stylist to tell me what they suggest. But then that scared me too.

Stylist recommended haircut

I have only done that one other time in my life and I turned out with the best hair cut ever but it couldn't be duplicated. When I went back to get trimmed the stylist that cut it had to leave for an emergency so this other guy cut my hair and I didn't like it AT ALL!

I'm hoping I will be able to get my hair cut by the end of the year! Don't worry I'll let you all know when I cut it off!

So the saga of hair growth continues...

$827.00

2010-07-28T09:33:00.000-05:00

The other day I was at Target and had the opportunity to witness a mother paying $827.00 to get her daughter set up in her college dorm. I could not believe it! Apparently, I saved my parents a lot of money by going to a local school and living with them. It was crazy. On my way home I was thinking of all the things I could do with $827.00.

1. Pay for a baby's birth. Our responsibility after Eli was born for his medical bills was $751.00.

2. Buy a new couch.

3. Make two car payments. When we had car payments they only equaled $470.00.

4. Buy 48 cans of Eli's formula.

5. Sponsor 21 compassion children for one month OR sponsor one child for 21 months.

Those are just some of the things I thought of. That list, of course, does not include the mindless spending on shoes or clothes that could also take place.

Have a great day!

Chaotic Grace

2010-07-20T06:03:00.001-05:00

These days I'm starting to feel like Maria in the Sound of Music when she's in the field spinning around and around with her arms open. There is so much stuff in my mind and in my life God is really forcing me to take one day at a time. Better yet, one second at a time.

When I think about everything going on around me God really starts putting things in perspective for me because occasionally we humans can be pretty self-centered. It's usually in times of suffering people's true colors shine through--for better or worse. Sadly, during suffering it's usually the worse that comes before the better. In his book, Desiring God, John Piper says, "All experiences of suffering in the path of Christian obedience, whether from persecution or sickness or accident, have this in common: They all threaten our faith in the goodness of God and tempt us to leave the path of obedience." This is so true! It is in days of chaos and suffering that we tend to spend less time with the Creator when, in fact, we should be spending more time with Him.

"Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead (2 Cor 1:9)." By no means, am I saying that my suffering compares to the persecution of Christians in Paul's day but the same God that raises the dead and created the solar system can handle my chaos. If only we would trust Him more and not ourselves.

What Lasts for 32 Years?

2010-07-19T12:38:00.000-05:00

Back in May I did a post about what had lasted the entire time my husband and I had been married (9 years). Well, I'm in Arkansas for a couple of days and decided I would look around my parent's house and see what has lasted them 32 years.

My mom has a set of silverware that was a wedding gift from her Aunt Gladys. I have no idea where this silverware came from and this might be the only piece my mom still has.

This dresser has been around longer than my parents have been married. It was my mother's dresser when she lived at home. I have sanded it down and I'm going to re-finish it whenever I buy the stain.

This is a mirror that was in my room when I was little.
I don't know for sure when my parents bought it but I know that it was in my room for a LONG time.

My parents might kill me for this! This is their engagement picture! In the orginal frame, I'm sure!
Now, when you come over this is not proudly displayed so don't expect to see it again--I had to go looking for it.

While I was looking for the engagement picture I came across this little gem. Again, I don't know when my mom got it but I know it's been on her bathroom counter for as long as I can remember.

Last but not least, the games! Notice the duct tape holding Battleship together! The games used most often were the United States puzzle, Taboo, and Family Trivia Pursuit. Don't ask where the original Trivia Pursuit game is. Why all the games? We lived in the country and didn't get satellite until I was about 16 years old--what else were we going to do?

There is also a Bible story book I was going to get a picture of until the camera died. Because, I did this while my parents were at work I don't really know the back story behind any of this or where they are hiding the really old stuff!

Update Time

2010-07-07T09:24:00.001-05:00

Well, last night I learned that this blog holds some sentimental spot in my husband's heart. Therefore, it will not be deleted. Instead it will be more personal and less informative. For more informative stuff visit my cluttered corner. For family updates and personal ramblings stay here. And always for all things running go to the running blog.

So for things of a personal nature. The only reason most of my family reads this blog: Mr. Eli Plunkett!

He will be 9 months old July 14th!

He scoots all over the place! Nothing is off limits to this mobile little boy!

He has found his bedroom! While scooting around he wanders in here to play with some of his other toys!

He loves his Daddy! While in AR for the 4th of July Chris took him for a ride on the four wheeler. Eli loves being outside so this was right up his alley!

A New Adventure

2010-06-30T19:59:00.001-05:00

Do you ever leave a candle burning when you leave the house? Do you worry about your kids being around an open flame? Do you want people to notice how good your house smells?

If you answered yes to any of those questions Scentsy is for you! I just started selling Scentsy and I want to help you make your environment smell "scentsational!"

Stay turned for my launch party information and any specials I might have.

And for all you Aggies out there I have just the warmer for you!

For more information please see my website: www.scentsy.com/carydeanne

Follow Up

2010-06-27T20:55:00.001-05:00

As I am typing this post I am in pain. You might remember the Plunkett's are attempting to eat a little better.   After eating such a good lunch of fresh vegetables, grilled chicken, and bread we decided to have Taco Bell for dinner because it was cheap and I didn't feel like cooking! Not a good idea. My stomach is pretty much in knots right now as I sip this lovely glass of Sprite.

Besides caving in tonight, what have we done to better our diet? Well, taking tips from my friend, Elizabeth (I quoted her in my previous post about this topic) we are buying things locally. Lucky for us, we have an excellent grocery store where we live that sells meats from local farmers so we buy our meat there. On the topic of meat, my friend sent me this little tip regarding meat: No legs (fish, vegetables) are better than two legs (chickens), two legs are better than four legs (cows, pigs). We have decreased our red meat intake to about once or none a week and increased our fish intake to at least once a week. I have not mastered the art of cooking fish yet so that is a learning process.

We are also growing some of our own food but we don't have any to eat yet. We did get one okra and I did cook that one okra for Chris. The same grocery store I buy our meat at also sells local fruits and vegetables so I do buy those items there also.

Sadly, eating healthy is more expensive than not so these are the things we do to eat healthy on a budget:
1. I buy fresh meats and vegetables at a smaller grocery store in town. The smaller grocery store does have a purchasing program that gives you a $10.00 gift certificate for every $300.00 you spend. It's not much but any little bit helps.
2.  Buy all other items at a larger store in town that is cheaper on other items but does not offer local foods. At this store is where I use my coupons because their original price is lower already.
3. I get coupons from all sources available to me: Sunday paper, internet, All You magazine, and in the mail. I only use coupons for things I would normally buy. I won't use a coupon for Coca-Cola just because I have one because I don't normally buy it. The coupons I use most often are diapers, wipes, household cleaners, and health and beauty stuff.
4. Eat simple for lunch. I stay at home with our son so I usually choke down a sandwich or something simple in order to save the "good" food for breakfasts or dinners with my husband.
5. Don't eat out. My husband and I only eat out if it is our date night. Of course, tonight we broke that rule and look where it got us. My husband does eat out on occasion because of his job but we don't pay for those meals so they don't really count as far as the budget goes.
6. Make my son's baby food. I buy my son's formula but that's it. Everything else I make. It is so simple I don't know why more people don't do it. If you have a stove and food processor you can do it. We did buy a food processor just for this purpose because I didn't have one before and it was taking forever to make his food in this mini food chopper thing. I'm pretty sure we've already paid for the food processor with the money we saved on baby food.

I think that's about it.  We are not total die hards about this but we aren't suffering either. Eating and cooking at home is giving me the ability to learn some new recipes and/or new techniques to make food and sometimes I even hear, "You should make this more often. It is the best I've ever had." Ahhh, music to my ears.

If there is anything I left out or if you have any questions about anything leave me a comment and I'll get back with you!

Opening John's Gospel and Epistles, by Philip Comfort and Wendell Hawley

2010-06-23T11:29:00.000-05:00

Often while reading through the Gospels and Epistles readers have several questions about background things, “Why did they do that, what did he really mean, who was he talking to,” etc. The everyday reader that does not have a seminary education or a set of commentaries on hand would get excellent use out of this book because it answers those very questions.

Philip Comfort and Wendell Hawley wrote this book in such a way that it could be used by seminary educated or non-seminary educated and still be a valid and useful resource. The introduction itself is 12 pages long and gives the reader so much background information on John’s Gospel and even gives the reader information about conflicts in information. Each chapter in the book gives you an exposition of the chapter, breaks down the passages, locks in on key words and phrases and finishes with almost verse by verse notes of the chapter.

This book would be excellent addition for any student of the Bible looking for a concise and valid resource on John’s gospels and epistles.

Thank you to Tyndale publishing for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review.

Summer Movies

2010-06-19T23:55:00.000-05:00

Thanks to my mother I have a special fondness in my heart for old movies or "classics." I remember several times in our house (after we got the satellite) she made us watch TCM because, "they were classics." Esther Williams, Katherine Hepburn, Spencer Tracy, you name 'em we watched 'em. Now, sadly, my husband gets to to also watch old movies with me.

Being the nerd I am, I am in a summer reading program at our local library. In my defense, they have some pretty cool prizes for adults! Anyways, I recently checked out, "The Great Movies," by Roger Ebert. Basically, this book is his list of great movies and with each title he gives a little background into each movie. I'll admit, most of the movies in this book I've never of and after looking them up on Netflix I discovered it's because some of them are foreign movies. For your viewing pleasure I have listed SOME of the movies from his list (*=I agree with Mr. Ebert):
All About Eve * This was the first movie I saw Bette Davis in. I'm pretty sure she was born to play this part.
Apocalypse Now I kind of want to see this because it is a Francis Ford Coppola movie but Chris said I probably wouldn't like it because it is pretty violent.
Beauty & the Beast This is not the Disney version. The movie Mr. Ebert is referring to is the 1946 version of the film.
The Big Sleep * This movie is a little confusing but it gives you a chance to see Humphrey Bogart in something other than Casablanca even though, it seems like the same character in both movies.
Bonnie & Clyde I have not seen this movie but it is in our queue at Netflix to get once I return Valentine's Day.
Casablanca * Does this really shock you? Even if you've never seen it, everyone's heard of it.
E.T. This was the first movie I ever cried while watching. You know the scene where E.T. might be dying?! I love the way Mr. Ebert wrote the chapter on this movie--he wrote it as a letter to his grand kids because he was watching them watch the movie through child eyes instead of movie critic eyes.
Fargo I have not seen all of this movie. I catch it sometimes on TV but I have never actually seen the entire movie.
The Godfather * I love the Godfather trilogy! I don't know why but when I saw the first one we had to go out and rent the second and third installment. Anytime I see it on T.V. I want to watch it all over again!
Gone with the Wind * Is there any doubt this movie is on the list? I remember the first time I watched the entire movie I just kept wondering when it was going to be over because what else could possibly go wrong!?
It's A Wonderful Life It might be un-American but I've never seen this entire movie either! However, I'm not going to put it in my queue because it comes on every Christmas so I'll have the opportunity to watch it.
JFK I have not seen this movie but I want to. Chris was not in the mood to see it a second time so this might be one I watch when he's out of town.
Pinocchio According to Mr. Ebert this movie is said to be one of the best movies Disney ever produced. I do not think I agree with that statement. Sorry, Mr. Ebert.
Pulp Fiction * I remember watching this movie after I saw Kill Bill and Kill Bill 2. I was fascinated by Quentin Tarantino. I think they should make an amusement park ride based on his brain and the working of it. Perhaps it might be a little scary but interesting, none the less.
Schindler's List * I actually read the book before I saw this movie. I remember thinking it was so depressing. But then again, concentration camps are exactly chicken soup for the soul material either. Watching this movie made me feel like I was there, which I'm sure is the goal.
The Shawshank Redemption * This is a movie Chris has actually watched more than once. Movies that make me feel sorry for criminals intrigue me because that is exactly what the directors, writers, and producers want you to do--feel sorry for their characters.
Singin in the Rain * Of course, this is no shocker either. Again, a movie everyone's heard of but not everyone has seen. Go ahead--rent it. You'll be singing that song all day after you do!
Some Like it Hot * Marilyn Monroe is probably not recognized for her acting as much as her looks but when I saw this movie I couldn't really imagine anyone else playing her part.
Star Wars It doesn't shock me that this movie is listed but I'm not really into Star Wars movies but some people are.
The Wizard of Oz * For its time I'm sure this movie was great. But, every time I think of the Wizard of Oz I think of my mom. My mom absolutely hates this movie--apparently, when she was child it scared her and even as an adult she refuses to watch it. Ironically, one year we were on vacation in Missouri and my mom had a seizure and was rushed to a local hospital. The doctors asked her several questions, one of which was, "Ma'am, do you know where you are?" Her response, "Kansas." At the moment I didn't think it was funny but looking back now it makes me laugh.

I have not seen all the movies listed above but I would like to. Thanks to Netflix and being able to watch instantly we did watch The Big Sleep the other night. I agree with Mr. Ebert that it was very confusing and after reading the chapter on this movie I think it's humorous that even the director of the movie had to call the original author of the book to understand the plot.

If you get bored this summer and need to expand your mind a little watch an old movie.

Happy viewing!

Jesus Manifesto, by Leonard Sweet and Frank Viola

2010-06-16T15:48:00.000-05:00

Jesus Manifesto: Restoring the Supremacy and Sovereignty of Jesus Christ, by Leonard Sweet and Frank Viola, is a book you will want to read more than once. The authors did an excellent job of capturing their readers in the very first chapter and making them stay through the end to truly restore Christ in our hearts and minds. This book is not a deep theological read; it is a smooth ride reminding the reader why they accepted Christ in the first place.

Simply put, this book is about Jesus. The beginning of the book to the end of the book is about Jesus. While reading you will be challenged to pick up your Bible and read the Gospels again to remind you of Jesus. In today’s Twitter, Facebook, and Starbucks filled days it is hard to remember why we are here and who we are here for. The authors of this book truly allowed God to use them to bring it all back.

If you are looking for a book to restore your relationship with Jesus, put your focus back on Jesus, remind you what He did for you, or illuminate the truths in your life—this is the book for you.

Thank you to Booksneeze for providing a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishing.

The Garden

2010-06-15T10:35:00.000-05:00

Some time ago my husband and I planted some fruits and vegetables in this small flower bed in the back of our house. I'm pretty sure it is against our lease to plant an actual garden in un-broken ground so we used the small flower bed that was already there. To anyone worried about curb appeal it is in the back so you can't see it from the road.

CURRENTLY:

When we started the garden we planted carrots, watermelons, lettuce, cucumbers, and canteloupes with seeds. Tomatoes, more cucumbers, okra, and lettuce were planted with starter plants. As of today, we have some tomatoes on their way and a little okra that's not quite done yet! I'm so excited! Everything has sprouted but not everything has produced growth yet.

IN THE FUTURE:
I want to figure out a way to plants some herbs, potatoes, and green beans next time. Like I said earlier our space is limited so I'm trying to figure out some ways to have some container gardens.

RESOURCES:
Garden Helper, published by Ferry Morse (I picked up this little booklet at a market in Bryan, TX)
From Dirt to Dinner Blog
Total Mom Haircut Blog-the woman that writes this blog has a campaign called "Dirt to Dinner" about growing your own vegetables for your own family.
Aggie Horticulture Living in Aggieland I should have known this existed however I didn't know it until I did a google search for "container gardening."

My previous post on this site was about some cancer prevention stuff. Well, the common thread among all that I've read is to know where your food came from and stay away from processed foods. What better way to know where you food came from than to grow it yourself.

Facebook, Free Radicals, and Farmers Markets?

2010-05-27T08:41:00.001-05:00

The Plunkett's, like most Americans, have been impacted by cancer on all sides of our family and, it seems, even some of our friends. After learning that one of our young friends might have cancer we started the discussion about cancer prevention in our home (which is where it starts). The one health book we own is, "What the Bible Says About Healthy Living," by Rex Russell. I love this book. It is my go to book on biblically living. The main principle in this book is eat food closest to the way God intended. That means stay away from processed foods. My personal research landed me at my local library checking out three books on cancer prevention.

The Cancer Prevention Good Health Diet by Martin Katahn
Anti-Cancer: A New Way of Life by David Servan-Schreiber
Food for Life by Richard Bohannon

When I got home I remembered a friend from high school that I recently caught up with on Facebook. This friend of mine is soon to be a guru on things chronic disease (she's in the process of getting her PhD at the University of Arkansas). She is very passionate about the topic so I couldn't wait to get her opinion and suggestions.

"The closer the food was grown to you, the better. And that's the bottom line. If you're able to grow your own, then, of course that's the best. The only foods that I personally buy are cheese blocks, meats, beans, and crackers, for the most part. I eat everything else from my garden, eggs from my chickens, and make my own bread. Processed foods are SUCH bad news."

Her book suggestions were:

In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan
Food Rules by Michael Pollan (He gives really amazing advice on how to shop for food and also explains exactly what and why you're trying to avoid when shopping.)
The Nutrition Bible by Anderson & Deskins

"...all the health books are pretty much going to tell you the same thing: eat right, sleep well, and exercise. Period. People understand the sleep well and exercise part, but the eating right is sometimes hard to grasp in our Western world full of fast and processed foods. So, just know that growing your own veg is the best, buying the foods grown closest to you is second best, and thirdly, stay away from stuff that you can't pronounce or have never heard of on the ingredients list. Those long-word things are the preservatives and "processing" parts. I'm not one to tout "Organic Only," by any means, but natural is the way to go. It doesn't have to be organic, so don't get fooled into that money trap of a market."

What about when you need to eat out (traveling, meeting, etc)?
"The only thing I can say for healthy options on the go is that there are ALWAYS healthier options when you're dining out or forced to eat fast food. Wendy's has been shown to be a heart healthy fast food option for many years now. And Jason's Deli is pretty good stuff too; they also use local foods. Try to steer clear of places that don't have a bigger refrigeration section than their freezer. This means that a majority of their foods are processed and not fresh. Sonic is the first place that comes to mind with this, for some reason. As much as I love their drinks, they lack almost all nutrition on their menu. Some other quick rules of thumb for fast food that are almost always stead fast but not 100% are: Chicken over beef, almost always (by the way, chicken nuggets are a stay-away item in most fast food places). Greens over potatoes, always. Fast food over gas station, always (unless you've got a gourmet gas station down there)."

What does all this mean for the Plunkett's? It's a work in progress. Will I eat at Chic-Fil-A? Without a doubt, I can say yes! Will I eat there every day? No. Also, as I read through these books I will fill you in on some of things I learn. I will also keep you posted on how I do this within our budget because sadly, when you buy natural products they seem to be more expensive even if they are better for you in the long run. If you are interesting in reading more about what the Plunkett's think about health feel free to read my February posts when I discussed heart health almost every day.

Preserving Salsa and Your Soul

2010-05-25T09:54:00.000-05:00

Recently, I started canning, or preserving as some people call it. Actually, the only thing I've canned is salsa. We eat a lot of salsa at our house and it is so annoying to run out. So one afternoon I made three batches of salsa which filled 13 small cans. I have given some away and we have opened two cans at my house. One day we are out and I asked my husband to get another jar from the cabinet. "What did you put in this salsa?" He asks with a weird look on his face. I explain nothing out of the ordinary, then I look in the jar and there is mold! How could this be? All the cans popped when I put the lids on, there should not be mold there. We opened another jar and there was no mold and it smelled like salsa. All is well with the world. Except I did give about 4 cans away and I'm hoping none of them had mold in them.

"As for you, O Lord, you will not restrain your mercy from; your steadfast love and your faithfulness will ever preserve me!" Psalm 40:11

According to dictionary.com, preserve means to keep safe, to maintain, to keep from harm. When you preserve food you are keeping it safe, keeping it from mold (except my one can). When God preserves you He's keeping you safe, He's maintaining you, He's keeping you from harm, and sometimes He's just keeping you company. The tricky part about God preserving you is He wants to do it. He truly loves you and wants to help you. BUT you have to let Him, you have to let Him in, You have to let your guard down and be willing to give up control. Often, we don't want to do this because, like in my case, you are admitting defeat. You are admitting you can't handle it. In my own life I know if I keep feeling I can do it all alone God's going to do something to bring me flat on my face begging for Him to take over.

As I read through Psalm 40 this morning I was thanking God for that passage almost after reading every verse. If you get a chance today prayerfully read through Psalm 40.

Motherhood

2010-05-24T13:38:00.005-05:00

Since I've been a mother all of 7 1/2 months I have learned A LOT! Not just about my son but about other mothers (and women in general).

1. It's hard. People joke around that stay at home moms don't do anything but watch their kids. There are some days I would like to sit in my old office and close the door. That's what I did when I needed a break from my co-workers. Now, I can't really just shut the door. My son is mobile and therefore, nothing is off limits to him...until I snatch it out of his hands.

2. It's wonderful. As hard as it is being my son's mom it is also wonderful. I love for him to wake up from a nap and smile at me through his crib. It is as if he's had the most wonderful dream and can't wait to tell me about it.

3. Women are mean. I was reading this blog about Julia Roberts being a mom and the stuff she liked about her kids. My first reaction when reading it was, "Ahhh, that is so sweet." I scrolled down and read what other people put as comments. Let me just say, they are mean. What ever happened to, "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all?" I think that's a pretty good rule to stand by when leaving comments on blogs. Seriously? We have so people people and things trying to bring us down why do we need to do it to each other?

4. We are different. Praise the Lord for that! I hang out with a wonderful set of friends at least once a week and we are all different but we are all excellent mothers to our children and wonderful wives for our husbands. I thank God for this set of ladies in my life. Our children are about the same ages and we just swap stories and compare baby products and just hang out. I love our times together!

I leave you now with two videos Christy Nockels did about motherhood:

Being A Mom {Part 1} from christy nockels on Vimeo.

Being A Mom {Part 2} from christy nockels on Vimeo.

Hair Update

2010-05-24T10:24:00.003-05:00

Regular readers will know that I am growing my hair out to donate it to Beautiful Lengths. Beautiful Lengths is a charity run by Pantene that makes wigs for American Cancer Society wig banks to give away to women who have lost their hair during their battle with cancer.

Once I said I was doing this I had friends tell me they wanted to join in. It takes 6 pony tails to make one wig and, lucky for me, I had 5 friends tell me they would do it! I am so excited about it because the six of us are doing something that can be a pain for us (especially in Texas heat) to help a woman recieve a wig to help her during a battle.

Here are the updates:

Me: I have 4-5 more inches to go. If I cut mine at my neck like I have 4 inches but a little longer than that is 5 inches.
Sarah Elizabeth: She has a couple more inches to go. She is predicting the big chop will take place in July.
Amber: She has a couple more inches to go. She wants to have shoulder length hair when she cuts her off.
Tiffany: She has a few more inches to go. She is also predicting the big chop for July.
Lindsay: She is on a mission to grow her out and also donate 8 inches of it. She is predicting her hair cut to take place in the fall sometime.
Brooke: (Lindsay's daughter) She has about 4 more inches to go before she gets her hair cut.

Stay tuned for more updates and posts by the girls when they get their hair cut.

Radiance

2010-05-19T09:40:00.004-05:00

I love the word, "radiant." I don't know why but I love it. Disclaimer: If I ever write a book it will be titled Radiance. A prayer I pray often is that God would make me radiant. I love the way Christy Nockels sings it in her song, "Life Light Up," "Let my life light up like the city lights."

Living in Bryan the city lights are not that bright but when we lived in Plano we would travel to Dallas often for hockey games or concerts and those city lights are crazy bright. Those are the kinds of lights you want to shine like. I think we often make our radiance hinge on our moods. I believe radiance, just like our moods, is a choice. Now, before you quit reading this. Hear me out. I know we all have sucky days but ultimately we are the ones that choose our mood for the day. Even if you are having a bad day you should not hide Christ's radiance behind your crabby mood. He gave you this day so let His love shine from within you.

Here's the deal. In the Bible when it talks about radiance it is always God's radiance. It's His. Not ours. If we are living in the flesh we cannot be radiant. We must be living with God to even have radiance as an option for us.

"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden." Matthew 5:14

I Am Hutterite by Mary-Ann Kirkby

2010-05-15T13:35:00.001-05:00

You have heard people say that unless you know where you came from you will never know where you are going. In I Am Hutterite Mary-Ann Kirkby tells the story of where she came from. She starts off giving you a little history on the Hutterite colony. A Canadian colony of individuals very few people have ever heard about. Then she tells the story of how her parents met and everyday life at the colony as a child. As she gets older she starts to witness the politics that thrive in the colony which ultimately left to her parents leaving the colony life all together. Leaving the colony proved to be an obstacle for a family that had always lived in colony life. Mary-Ann learns the lessons of forgiveness, influence of family, and maturity through her life on the colony and afterwards.

If you are looking for a book to read on a nice day and just relax—this is the book you need to read. While reading it you will forget it is non-fiction simply because it reads like a novel.

Thank you to booksneeze.com for a complimentary copy of this book to review for Thomas Nelson non-fiction.

What Lasts for Nine Years?

2010-05-12T22:26:00.000-05:00

Today my husband and I celebrated our nine year wedding anniversary. It just seems so crazy to me that we have been married for nine whole years! I started thinking about everything we've been through together and then my mind slipped to our things. I started looking around the house for things we have had the entire time we've been married. Enjoy.

Oneida silverware. Chris' Granny told us she would buy our silverware for us...until she found out we registered for it at Pier One then she told me to look at JCPenney for "real" silverware.

Correll white dishes. Every time I think about getting new dishes I always go back to how versatile these are. Notice there are only 4 red plates--I couldn't bear to buy a whole set--I wasn't ready to replace my white ones.

This is a tote bag I bought on our honeymoon. You guessed it--Disney World!

American Eagle shoes. I bought these on clearance right after we got married for $9.99! It was a deal I just couldn't pass up!

Last but not least, my wedding band. I love this ring! My husband designed it using all the rings he'd given me. The small hearts came from a promise ring he gave me about 2 years before we got engaged, the diamond came from my engagement ring, and the wedding band was bought to complete the set. Sometimes we talk about getting me another set for the big anniversaries (you know 25, 50, etc) but right now I don't think I can ever replace this ring. It really is one of a kind. A Chris Plunkett original!

I remember the first item we had to replace after we got married. Bath rugs. Chris got really sick when we had been married for about 3 months and he threw up on everything in the bathroom. I mean EVERYTHING! I couldn't stand to clean the rugs so I just threw them away. Sorry, to who ever bought them for us.

Teething

2010-04-30T22:20:00.003-05:00

The other day at Target a woman told me every time her kids were cranky she would tell people they were teething--even when they were 6 years old and old enough to get upset about it.

I feel like that. I feel like Eli has been teething since Christmas. He finally cut two teeth over Easter and I really think he's working on more but they have not appeared yet.

Being the nerd I am I've read a lot of blogs and websites about teething and what to do about it.

Tylenol Done it and I guess it works.

Baby Orejel Done it and probably didn't work.

Teething pacifier Bought one. He's not a fan.

Frozen teething toys Did it. The cold made him cry more.

Frozen waffles I'm a little scared to do this simply because he doesn't really chew stuff yet.

Frozen pacifier I haven't tried this one yet because he was so against the other frozen things I didn't even want to try it again.

That's pretty much it. I think my philosophy on teething will be the same as my pregnancy philosophy: Heaven is forever--not teething.

Un-discipleship?

2010-04-28T13:38:00.006-05:00

If you are a regular reader of this blog you know that I have formatted a structured series of questions for discipleship using only the Bible (and commentaries). I often feel this is too structured that girls might not get very much from this method or get bored with it. However, I was affirmed recently. I heard a speaker say, to a group of women, when they were in between Bible studies offered by their local churches they should read their Bible. Now because I think about discipleship a lot I assumed this was a given. It made my heart hurt to think women, without the structure of a regular workbook Bible study, would flounder about spiritually until something else came along.

Ladies, with the same fervor you use to teach your child to use a sippy cup or mind their manners at the table--read God's Word! You don't have to be the next Beth Moore or Denise Glenn to read His word. His Word is for the educated and uneducated, loved and unloved, skinny and fat, Aggies and Razorbacks...it's for everyone.

If you don't know where to start, start with some short books: Phillipians, Colossians, Ephesians, James, etc. Don't let Satan win the battle for your time and your soul.