zoe elmore

2012-02-08T14:08:00.000-08:00

"Restlessness and impatience change nothing except our peace and joy.

Peace does not dwell in outward things,

but in the heart prepared to wait

trustfully and quietly on Him

who has all things

safely in His hands."
Elizabeth Elliot

2012-02-08T03:54:00.001-08:00

Broken.....

Sigh..........

Me thinks there is a spiritual lesson here.

Everything on our homes will eventually need to be repaired or replaced.

What is the Lord repairing or replacing in your heart home?

2012-02-07T06:05:00.000-08:00

Ruth 1:16-17, "But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the LORD do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you.”"

Monday's Message

2012-02-06T07:03:00.000-08:00

Zephaniah 3:17

The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."

Quiet Time

2012-02-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

2012-02-03T04:14:00.000-08:00

Happy Weekend

2012-02-02T04:35:00.000-08:00

I've just gotten word that a rainy day is falling in the life of

a precious friend.

When words fail and there's nothing you can do...

Think again...

One of the most treasured gifts we can offer someone is

PRAYER.

I'm praying this verses over my friend today.

What verses encourage your heart?

2012-02-01T05:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunshine Wednesday

my lovelies

I'm gaining so much insight from reading

One Thousand Gifts

The following passages continue to ring in my ears

and resonate in my heart.

"Satan's sin becomes the first sin of all humanity: the sin of ingratitude.

Adam and Eve are, simply, painfully, ungrateful for what God gave."

"Our fall was, and has been, and always will be, that we aren't satisfied

in God and what he gives. We hunger for

something more, something other."

Ann Voskamp

Are you reading this book?

Did the same passages impact your heart?

I hope you will share your lovely thoughts.

Monday's Message

2012-01-30T03:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday my lovelies.

The first month of the new year is coming to a close and I wanted to check in with you.

Are you rereading the same the last chapter of your life

over and over again?

I want to encourage you to turn the page and make yourself ready to

move forward with what lies ahead.

Philippians 3:13-14

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (NIV)

Quiet Time

2012-01-29T04:53:00.000-08:00

Wait for the LORD, be strong and let your heart take courage. Yes wait for the LORD! Psalm 27:14

2012-01-27T05:32:00.000-08:00

Happy Weekend!!

Thursday Tablescapes

2012-01-26T03:47:00.001-08:00

Simple and dramatic at the same time

I'm so Transparent

2012-01-25T06:18:00.000-08:00

I wish I had a prize for each of you my lovelies!

Well... actually I will be having a HUGE give away in about a month to celebrate the launch of my new web/blog site so stay tuned for that.

Any who, back to my Bagology.

Yes, I LOVE me some glitter and sparkle and have in fact in the past I have carried the sparkliest bag I could find.

Now that I'm a bit more... mature shall we say.

I've been carrying the same tote bag for the last 3 1/2 years.

Thanks for posting sweet friends!

Maybe I can find a quiz about what our shoes say about our personalities. If you see one, send it over so we can all enjoy!

I'm sure it will confirm that I have multiple personalities, since I'm know for wearing more than one pair on shoes every day.

Hugs to all of you.

Bagology

2012-01-24T03:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday my lovelies,

I don't think I've ever met a woman who didn’t have an opinion on handbags. If you're anything like me, I bet you have more than three handbags in your closet at any given time.

Have you ever wondered what your handbag says about you?

Anita Daniel published an article in the New York Times in 1945 addressing the science of “bagology”. According to Ms. Daniel's article, a woman’s handbag is of extreme importance to her. It’s the key to who she really is.

Check out the following handbag options and see what your handbag says about you.

Backpack – The backpack-carrier says to the world that she is a practical and genuine person. She is always prepared and not concerned with what others think of her.

Clutch - A woman with a clutch is confident in who she is. She doesn’t feel the need to carry her entire life with her and isn’t afraid to ask a companion to hold any belongings that won’t fit in her clutch.

Under the Arm- The woman who carries her handbag under her arm is seen as the definition of sophistication and class.

Oversized / Tote – Carrying an oversized or tote bag says that you’re a busy bee but also practical and prepared. Those with an oversized/tote are seen as fun-loving and personable.

Fabrics and Frills – It’s not just the style of bag you carry but also its distinguishing features that speak about your personality. Knit bags give off a warm and artsy vibe, whereas metal accessories signal someone with a rebellious streak. Sequins and sparkles aregenerally worn by those who like to be the center of attention whereas neutral colored bags say that you’re friendly and approachable.

I completely agree with this bagology diagnosis, what about you?

Can you guess what type of handbag I carry?

Tell us what you think your handbag says about you?

Monday's Message

2012-01-23T03:35:00.000-08:00

Jeremiah 33:3 Call to Me, and I will answer you, and I will show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.

Having a "microwave life" where everything is ready in a few minutes or even seconds is the desire of most people everywhere (including me).

Contrast that to God's "conventional oven" method.

When my husband and I began dating, I wanted to impress him by baking his favorite sweet treat. While I had never made an Italian Cream Cake, I was confident I was up for the challenge. After gathering the ingredients and following the recipe perfectly, I carefully place the cake pans in my mom's new oven.

When I removed the cakes, they appeared to be done, so I cooled the layers, then iced them with the yummy icing. I could hardly wait until dinner was done, so we could all enjoy the sumptuous dessert. As the slices were cut and served I could see something was terribly wrong! The cake layers which were supposed to be light and fluffy, were grey and uncooked. I was embarrassed and humiliated! "How did this happen?" I squealed?

My mom reminded me that I didn't set the oven timer when I placed the cakes in the oven.

Oh friends, I hope you will see the simple truth in my story today. Timing is very important not only in baking cakes, but in life itself. Our desire may be to have what we want when we want it, but waiting patiently on the Lord yields perfect answers in perfect time.

Avoiding a microwave oven mentality is one step toward a life of holiness. Applying God's conventional oven method to our lives, opens the door to blessing and answers we could never imagine.

"Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him." Psalm 34:8 (NIV)

Quiet Time

2012-01-22T03:00:00.000-08:00

2 Corinthians 12:9, "But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me." (NIV)

2012-01-20T04:05:00.000-08:00

ReStore

2012-01-19T11:56:00.001-08:00

Happy Thursday my lovelies.

These are the Before and After pictures from my time with Gwen

today at the

Matthews Habitat ReStore

Sorry for the fuzzy Before picture from the

Left Side of the room and the Bookcase.

The After picture of the styled Bookcase

This is the After Picture from the Left Side of the Room.

The drapes are more clearly seen.

The lamp on the table is one in a set. (See Below)

Close up of those cherub lamps. Someone had painted them pink and

we thought they went with the

Pink Sofa.

We found this Pink lampshade on a different lamp

and reused it here.

The fabric table covering is made up of four cafe curtain panels.

This is the Before picture from the Right Side of the Room.

This is the After from the Right Side.

We hung drapes in the corners and used tiebacks.

The clock doesn't work, but it makes a great piece of art.

We moved this pink antique sofa in front of the window and

brought in another sofa from the room we styled last week.

Assorted pillows from the pillow bin brought the colors together.

This is the coffee Table After we styled it.

The glass had sticky tape residue and multiple attempts

to remove those pesky, sticky pieces of

packer's tape were unsuccessful.

After hunting around the cleaning closet, I tried this product.

Believe it or not, it worked perfectly.

I think I'll add this product to my grocery list.

That's our project for this week, my lovelies.

I can hardly believe how these random items

came together so well.

I'm gaining so much knowledge from Gwen on how to

use what's at hand

create something beautiful and useful

in order to bless others.

All of this is a great reminder

to use what the Lord has placed in our hands

to bless others.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord,

not for men,

since you know that you will receive and inheritance

from the Lord as a reward.

It is the Lord Christ you are serving.Colossians 3:23-24

I hope you'll share your experiences on

creating beauty and blessing others.

2012-01-18T03:28:00.001-08:00

It's Here, It's Here!!

No, I'm not the crazy Christmas Target lady, but I'm so excited!

I just purchased my first copy of the

HGTV magazine.

I sat in my car for 20 minutes perusing each page.

There are so many fabulous pictures and ideas in the magazine.

I think this laundry room is more than fabulous!

Maybe that's because I don't have a laundry room.

My laundry closet is efficient, but this room is a DREAM.

Here are a few helpful laundry tips from the magazine

-A sink for hand-washing: A two minute soak in the sink isn’t enough. You need to soak stains for at least 10-30 minutes to really make a difference.

- Bins for sorting: Don’t just separate by color but also by material. You don’t want to wash fuzzy fabrics like chenille and flannel with corduroy or permanent-press items, which can be magnets for lint.

- Countertops for folding: Don’t fold clothes hot right out of the dryer (we know – we all do it!). You can wind up with creases that are hard to get rid of.

- A rod for hanging: A rod is hey for keeping shirts smooth and crease-free. Take collared shirts out of the dryer a few minutes before they’re dry to prevent the neck from stretching and the collar from getting floppy.

- Did you know: You should clean the inside of your washing machine to keep it and your clothes smelling fresh? You can put the lint screen from the dryer in the dishwasher? Hot pink, bring green, and electric blue can bleed more than other colors in the washing machine? Using too much detergent can actually make your clothes dirtier.

- 3 stain busters to have on hand: Rubbing alcohol for ink. Raise armpit stain remover for getting out touch sweat stains. Blue dawn dish soap for grease.

Speaking of Cleaning

Check out these interesting tips...

When was the last time you cleaned?…

-Your hairbrush: Beauty experts recommend washing your hair brush every two months. First pull out all stray hairs with a comb. Fill a sink with warm water and a squirt of soap or mild shampoo, and soak your brush for 15 minutes. (If your brush has padding, boar bristles, or a wooden handle, swish it back and forth in the sink and then rinse to prevent the brush getting waterlogged.

-The inside of your coffee machine: Clean your machine after every dozen brews. Insert a coffee filter and fill the reservoir with two parts white vinegar and one part water, and run the machine through one full cycle. Then, repeat the process twice with cold water and filters.

- The produce bins in your fridge: Scrub your bins every few months to keep produce flavors fresh. Empty the drawers and remove them from the fridge. Dip a cloth in a mixture of 4 tablespoons baking soda and 1 quart warm water, then wipe down the inside and outside of each bin. Avoid household cleaners, which can make food taste like chemicals. Be sure to rinse the bins in warm water before returning to the fridge.

Happy Laundry and Happy Cleaning

2012-01-17T04:23:00.000-08:00

Hello my lovelies,

I'm putting the priming and painting on hold for the day to clean

and

make our home ready for tomorrow's

Bible Study.

I'm so excited to be see my sweet Bible buddies

and

to study this wonderful book.

What are you studying?

Monday's Message

2012-01-16T03:29:00.000-08:00

We are well into the January my lovelies and perhaps you need a little

re-calibrating as you continue in your pursuit to read God's word on

a daily basis.

Our pastor recently shared this and I wanted to pass it along to you.

Seven Daily Psalms:

Sunday: Psalm 24... God the Creator-Re-calibrating your life.

Monday: Psalm 48... God in His City-Rediscovering the Church

Tuesday: Psalm 82... God the Just Judge-Reengaging in Justice

Wednesday: Psalm 94... God the Avenger-Remembering the

God of the Covenant

Thursday: Psalm 81... God the Forgiving One-Returning to the God of Grace

Friday: Psalm 93... God the Holy King-Recognizing the Divine Majesty

Saturday: Psalm 92... God of the Covenant-Re-telling the Great Story

Quiet Time

2012-01-15T04:58:00.001-08:00

Micah 5:4-5, And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth. And he shall be their peace.

Fabulous Feature Friday

2012-01-13T03:52:00.000-08:00

Happiest Friday my lovelies,

The weekend has arrived and I'm spending the day with some of the ladies from my Covenant Group.

Laurie, Gwen and I are making a day of it.

We're visiting

The Sleepy Poet

and the newest

Black Lion

here in Charlotte.

While we're checking out some home decor inspiration,

here's a fabulous site from Glidden paints.

You'll find some great inspiration to assist you in choosing colors for your home.

2012-01-12T04:50:00.000-08:00

It's Thursday my Lovelies,

This is where I'll be today; volunteering at my local Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

My friend Gwen is a master at using what's a hand to make something wonderful!

I'm going to lend a hand and my strong back as we decorate and stage one of the "showrooms" today.

Check out the Before and After pictures below

This is Before picture from the right side of the room

This is the After

This the Before from the left side of the room

This is the After

I LOVED my time with Gwen at the ReStore today. I can hardly wait until next week.

2012-01-11T03:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday my lovelies,

If you've ever spent any time in the hospital with family or friends, you know how exhausting it can be.

I'm taking a time out today to lend my best friend Lisa Barlow a hand.

Lisa's dad is in the hospital, and I have the honor and privilege of bringing him a cheery hello, Lisa a bite of lunch and a bit of company.

What would you most like to receive if you are the one standing watch in the hospital?

2012-01-10T05:42:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday my lovelies,

I'm happy to know I have lovely friends tackling the same cleaning and organizing projects.

While I continue to prime and paint the molding in our home, feast your eyes on this lovely collection of silver shimmer.

Small and quaint or large and grandiose, I must say I had no idea just how much molding there can be in any home.

While I'm busy wiping down dust bunnies from the toe shoe molding, send me your best cleaning tips and the products you like to use.

I found a great tip from HGTV on the best and cheapest (less than $1.00 per bottle) cleaning product.

Stay tuned...

... I'll reveal it tomorrow.

Monday's Message

2012-01-09T06:05:00.000-08:00

ORGANIZED

Arrange into a structured whole; order: "organize lessons in a planned way".
Coordinate the activities of (a person or group) efficiently.

I'm knee deep in cleaning out closets, dresser drawers, the kitchen pantry. Anything really in my house that holds anything...

I'm not sure what's happening, but right now I'm obsessed with cleaning and organizing.

Here are a few of my favorite products

I love these honeycomb drawer organizers. They only a a moment to snap together and they have transformed my sock drawer and my foundation drawer.

Having new flatware organizers are not only good in the kitchen, but using them to organize your makeup and toiletries is a great idea.

Of course my favorite organizing tool is the huggable hanger.

What about you friend, what are some of your favorite organizing products?

Quiet Time

2012-01-08T10:15:00.001-08:00

Psalm 16:7-9,I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure,

2012-01-06T05:14:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday my lovelies,

Well... we are about to finish up the first week of the New Year.

... Here's a little scripture encouragement for you.

Wednesday's Words of Wisdom

2012-01-04T06:51:00.000-08:00

If you're feeling like Lucy as you pursue your own baby steps...

... be encouraged...

You might not be the best or fastest or fittest gal on the block...

...but

Remember...

While you're working hard taking those baby steps...

Here are a few pops of pink for you...

I Don't Do Resolution

2012-01-03T03:54:00.000-08:00

I don't do resolutions. There, I said it...

...I believe New Year's resolutions are a set up for failure...

Each of us had resolved to accomplish grandiose and saintly things in the new year...

... and after a few short days we fall right back into old habits and the old way of doing things...

Instead of resolutions, I prefer to take baby steps.

Proverbs 4:12

When you walk, your step will not be hampered, and if you run, you will not stumble. (ESV)

I love the confidence this scripture offers me.

Although this new year is uncharted territory, we can walk with confidence that the Lord will open up the way for us "one step at a time"...

It's not necessary for us to look far in front of us or around corners...

... each of us should just take one step...

... Soon, our wobbly and tentative baby steps will become strong and steady...

Remember the Lord's promise to be with us...

... The Lord will order our steps to help us maneuver around road blocks...

... and He will uncover His path for us...

... as we take one step at a time...

What about you friend, will you share your baby steps?

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T11:07:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year my lovelies,

Once again we find ourselves at the beginning of a new year and the time we all set about making resolutions or promises to "do things differently".

It's a time to start over, begin things "anew".

The slate has been wiped clean.

We have one more opportunity to do life better than we did last year.

I hope your 2012 will be filled with:

Endless possibilities to ponder God's goodness and faithfulness to us.

Gratitude for the blessings you have and will receive.

A heart and lips full of Praise for the Lord who gives us a fresh start, a clean slate everyday.

"This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness."

- Lamentations 3:21-23

2011-12-25T03:00:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

Favorite Ornaments

2011-12-22T03:00:00.000-08:00

I'll end my favorite ornaments with this one my lovelies,

Yes, that is an actual nativity scene in my tree. I found this one on sale one year and I nestle it inside my tree each year.

It's a wonderful conversation starter and the perfect reminder that our sweet Jesus was born in a manger, but grew to become a man who would voluntarily die on a tree for you and for me.

I'm wishing a Happy Christmas to all of my lovely friends.

Favorite Ornaments

2011-12-21T03:00:00.000-08:00

A sparkly hello my lovelies,

This ornament is a simple chandelier crystal. I found a few of these in a box at my local GoodWill store a number of years ago and they add just the right touch of sparkle to my tree each year.

Favorite Ornaments

2011-12-20T03:00:00.000-08:00

This ornament was a find at my local Habitat Restore store.

I'm not really sure what it is exactly or it's intended purpose, but my sweet friend Gwen Troxell (the one who made my FABULOUS Christmas Wreath) pointed them out to me and suggested I hang them on my tree like "icicles".

Favorite Ornaments

2011-12-19T03:00:00.000-08:00

These Margaret Furlong ornaments are more than 20 years old and I still treasure each one. I began collecting these ceramic shell angels and purchased one each year.

These ornaments are no longer produced, so they hold an ever increasing place of sentiment on my heart.

Favorite Ornaments

2011-12-18T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hopping Greetings my lovelies,

This bunny light cover is still so cute, even after more than 20 years.

I used to collect bunnies of all kinds and when I found a set of these bunny covers you can bet I hopped to it in order to bring them home.

Favorite Ornaments

2011-12-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Day my lovelies,

This ornament is is honor or our beloved pet Max. Although Max is not with us literally, he is always with us in spirit. And yes, he didwear a bow in his hair.

Favorite Ornaments

2011-12-16T04:23:00.001-08:00

Hello my lovelies,

This ornament has special meaning to me for several reasons. First of all, my friend Connie Pratt gave this to me one year as she and I used to meet for tea and would exchange one ornament with one another.

The other reason is the song title painted on this ornament. For more than 10 years I had the honor and privilege to sing this beloved Christmas carol each year with a symphony orchestra and more than 100 choir members. While I'm unable to sing songs of this magnitude, it remains one of my favorite songs of the season.

Favorite Ornaments

2011-12-15T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hello lovelies,

Here's one of my very favorite antique ornaments from my parents. Best guess it's more than 55 years old. There is a partner ornament like this one but a different color.

These two ornaments are our sons favorite ornaments too. They always thought the liquid was poisonous and they loved to help hang them "very carefully" on our tree each year.

Favorite Ornaments

2011-12-14T04:39:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Day Two of my Favorite Ornaments my lovelies,

This was the first ornament Tom and I purchased in 1979. Actually, I picked it out and purchased it. I'm sure your shocked to see that it's shiny and sparkly. HA HA!!!

Favorite Ornaments

2011-12-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday my lovelies,

Today I'm sharing one of my favorite Christmas Ornaments.

This is one of several hand cross-stitched ornaments I did in 1979 for the first Christmas Tom and I celebrated as newlyweds.

Money was VERY tight and we could only afford a 3 foot Christmas tree.

We proudly put it on an end table in front of the picture window of our apartment and from the outside our little tree looked large and majestic.

Monday's Message

2011-12-12T03:00:00.000-08:00

A Baby Changes Everything

Faith Hill

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas

2011-12-10T10:47:00.001-08:00

Happy Weekend my lovelies,

This is what I'm watching this weekend as I put the finishing touches on our home for our neighborhood party tonight.

Happy Weekend

2011-12-09T12:06:00.001-08:00

Happy Weekend my lovelies,

Here's one pictures from last night's ornament exchange.

There were about twenty ladies here and we all had a fabulous time!

My girlfriends are just the BEST!!

Check out Alicia, MaryBeth and Barb showing off the ornaments they took home.

Check this out!

LeAnn Rice is not only gorgeous, talented and brilliant, she is one of the most GENEROUS girlfriends I know.

She is ALWAYS thinking of others.

She just gave me these lovely "sparklys".

I'm going to wear them tonight when we take Joe out to celebrate his birthday.

Party Prep

2011-12-08T04:29:00.000-08:00

Enjoy this lovely picture as I busy myself

with cleaning, dipping a few more cherries and putting the finishing touches on things

for tonight's Ornament Exchange/Food Drive

Easy Decorating

2011-12-07T03:59:00.000-08:00

This is a very easy decoration, although I think I'll be using battery operated candles.

Here's an idea for an easy way to use those vintage ornaments you may have.

2011-12-06T05:33:00.001-08:00

Happy Tuesday my lovelies,

Here are a few images from this years indoor rotating tree.

Check it out on my facebook page.

Here's the "Beach" Tree on my screened in porch.

Monday's Message

2011-12-05T04:01:00.000-08:00

Are you making room for Jesus as the Christmas Season begins?

12 Days of Christmas Giveaway

2011-12-04T03:00:00.000-08:00

Luke 1:14, "
He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth" (NIV)

Happy Lord's Day my lovelies,

If you're visiting my blog after stopping by

Karen Ehman’s 12 Day of Christmas Giveaway, welcome!

If you haven’t visited Karen’s blog yet, girlie you are missing out one FABULOUS Christmas giveaway!

Not only is Karen an amazing author, blogger, wife, mother, care giver; Karen is one of the smartest, sweetest girls I know and she has a servants heart like no other.

I'm not sure if or when Karen sleeps because she's busier than Christmas elves in December thinking up ways to bless others.

Karen's 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway is celebrating it's fourth year and I'm excited to be participating this year.

In honor of that I've put a tote bag full of lovely treats.

I hope you will experience the power of Jesus as your Joy and delight this Christmas season and I encourage you to discover one new way to serve others.

Weekend Surprise

2011-12-02T04:02:00.000-08:00

Happy Weekend my lovelies,

I'm making my way to Reading, PA today preparing to speak for the lovely ladies

at First Presbyterian Church.

While I'm away, enjoy this lovely decorating inspiration,

Maybe I can decorate a room like this one day.

Stop by my blog and tell your friends to stop by this

Sunday, December 4

There will be an opportunity to win a FABULOUS give away!!!

Weekend blessings to you

Wednesday's Words of Wisdom

2011-11-30T03:31:00.000-08:00

Hostess appreciation, I think every hostess enjoys even a small token of appreciation, and not just during the holiday season. Most of us will be visiting friends and family during the Christmas season and I want to encourage you to find a little something to take.

Speaking of giving, I want to invite you to enter a FABULOUS give away.

My friend Karen Ehman is doing her

12 Days of Christmas Giveaway.

I'll be featured this Sunday, December 4.

Log on to Karen's site everyday to be entered in her give away.

Now, back to hostess gifts...

I'm always on the hunt for things to add to my gift drawer and here are a few things I've added to my hostess gift collection.

Remember, your gesture of appreciation doesn't have to be elaborate or expensive.

Here are a few suggestions.

Fragrant Candles. I especially like giving this particular fragrance during the Christmas season.

I actually found a few of these on clearance at the end of last year.

Thymes - Fir fragrance

Paperwhites. You can plan them in any container yourself or you can purchase a DYI kit for your hostess to enjoy planting with their family.

Monogrammed paper napkins. Anything monogrammed really.

A decorative tray filled with a homemade cheese ball. Add some packaged crackers and a spreader.

I'd love to hear what you like to give or receive as hostess gifts.

Monday's Message

2011-11-28T03:28:00.000-08:00

Happy Thinking my lovelies

Post Turkey Day

2011-11-25T05:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Post Turkey Day friends,

Perhaps you're spending your day like this, shopping for all those Black Friday deals...

Or maybe, you're still sleeping off your turkey coma.

You might be getting a head start on your Christmas decorating...

NOT ME...

I'm at home cooking again today.

I'm getting ready for the last NC State home game tailgate party.

Check out one yummy dessert from Tyler Florence for the

Ultimate Carmel Apple Pie.

I think I'll be adding this one to our menu.

Happy post turkey day!!

Happy Thanksgiving

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

Thanksgiving Tables & Recipe

2011-11-22T06:41:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanks giving my lovelies,

Here are are few ideas for your tables and our recipe for Greek stuffing.

Here's how we enjoy stuffing. I hope you enjoy it too.

Greek Traditional Turkey with Chestnut and Pine Nut Stuffing

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup chestnuts

2/3 cup butter

1/4 cup orange juice

1/4 cup tangerine juice

2/3 cup lemon juice

1 (10 pound) whole turkey

salt and ground black pepper to taste

1/2 pound ground beef

1/2 pound ground pork

1/4 cup chopped onion

1/2 cup uncooked instant rice

1/4 cup pine nuts

1/4 cup raisins (optional)

1/3 cup butter

1/2 cup chicken broth

2 tablespoons brandy

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

1.	Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
2.	Make a small incision on sides of each chestnut, and place in a skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring often, until toasted. Remove from heat, peel, and chop.
3.	Melt 2/3 cup butter in a saucepan, and mix in the orange juice, tangerine juice, and lemon juice. Rub the turkey inside and out with the mixture, reserving some for basting. Season turkey with salt and pepper.
4.	In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, ground pork, and onion until beef and pork are evenly brown and onion is tender. Drain grease. Mix in the rice. Stir in the chestnuts, pine nuts, raisins, 1/3 cup butter, broth, and brandy. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Continue cooking until all liquid has been absorbed. Stuff all turkey cavities with the mixture, and tie in place with kitchen twine.
5.	Place turkey on a rack in a roasting pan, and loosely cover breast and thighs with aluminum foil. Pour about 1/4 inch water into the bottom of the pan. Maintain this level of water throughout cook time. Roast turkey in the preheated oven 3 to 4 hours, brushing occasionally with remaining butter and juice mixture. Increase oven temperature to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) during final hour of roasting, and remove foil. Cook turkey to a minimum internal temperature of 170 degrees F.

Monday's Message

2011-11-21T03:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday my lovelies,

I found this on a decorating blog I enjoy so much and find great spiritual and decorating inspiration.

Quiet Time

2011-11-20T06:06:00.001-08:00

Isaiah 5:11, “Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and SORROW AND MOURNING SHALL FLEE AWAY!”

2011-11-18T04:17:00.000-08:00

Happy Weekend Lovelies!

I'm wishing you a weekend filled with relaxation and some "you time"

If you have a few minutes, check out the remake of this home in New Hampshire.

Beautiful Treasures

2011-11-17T04:03:00.000-08:00

Oh Lovelies,

I'm so excited to share this amazing project my sweet friend Gwen has put together for me.

Gwen is one of those sweet friends that will help you with anything!!

She is not only gracious and precious, she is one of the most talented women I know.

She can see beauty in anything and everything, no matter how worn or torn it might be.

I've had a large white pre-lit wreath for years, but never knew quite how to decorate it.

I've hung this wreath is different rooms over the years and dressed it in a number of different colors and themes, but I think you will agree that what Gwen has put together

is well... just stunning.

BUT wait, here's the BEST part.

Gwen only spent $24.00. That's right friends, Gwen put this together for less than $25.00.

How did she do that?

Gwen volunteers at a local Habitat Restore and regularly shops our GoodWIll stores where she finds the most wonderful treasures.

That's where Gwen found everything for my wreath.

Before I reveal Gwen's FABULOUS handiwork... think about the spiritual application of what

my friend Gwen did for me.

Seeing beauty in the worn, tattered and torn.

Scouring the "forgotten" and "thrown away" for treasures.

Scooping up throw "aways" to be used for something beautiful.

Isaiah 43:19

"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." (NIV)

Isaiah 64:8

“But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our potter;

and all we are the work of Your hand.” (NIV)

Quick & Easy Decorating

2011-11-16T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hello my lovelies,

I put this together in literally three minutes.

The bowl is something I use everyday on my kitchen table, it's usually

filled with Japanese fishing floats.

Today I added six battery operated LED candles that came with a remote.

I found these at Marshall's Home Goods.

I added colorful strings of beads from Target and leftover ornaments.

Voila!! Instant decor.

Tuesday's Tune-up

2011-11-15T03:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday my lovelies,

It's that time of year again...

You know what I'm referring to, that time of year when each of us drags out the boxes and bins in order to make our home lovely and festive just in time for the holidays.

I did that just yesterday. I'm a bit under the weather and I needed to stay home most of the day waiting for a repairman to arrive, so... I began decorating our home for the holidays.

One thought kept coming to mind as I wrestled with the lights, garland and ornaments.

"Do I spend as much time on my interior "spiritual" life as I do making our home lovely and festive?"

What about you friend, as you begin getting your home ready for family and festivities, how is your "interior life"?

As you ponder your answer, here's another quick recipe to add to your holiday cookbook.

Easiest Cream Cheese Dip

Ingredients:

2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

24 ounces salsa

Directions:

Pour half of the salsa into a food processor, add the softened cream cheese and then add the remaining salsa.

Blend until all cream cheese and salsa is mixed well.

*Refrigerate the dip for 2 to 3 hours before serving. You can make this up to three days before needed.

Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Serve with cut veggies, crackers, tortilla chips or top potato skins with a dollop of dip.

Monday's Message

2011-11-13T14:04:00.001-08:00

Happy Monday my lovelies,

The Armed and Dangerous Conference with the precious ladies at Crossover Community Church in High Point was more wonderful than words could ever express.

Linda Pendry and all the ladies on her team truly gave their all to make this conference just fabulous. I can't thank everyone enough for all of your sacrificial and hard work; I know the Lord was honored by the work of your hands.

A million thank yous for treating me so royally and welcoming me and Tom so warmly.

Rhonda Love, you are named perfectly sister; I can't recall the last time so much love and hospitality was lavished upon Tom and me.

I can't wait to see you and Linda at She Speaks 2012.

Preparing for battle begins on our knees.

What an absolute blessing to meet "Purple Grandma" with her sweet family.

If you want to meet some of God's best girls, you have got to meet this family.

Check out Tammy, her mom Kathy, Rhonda Love, me and Linda Pendry.

These ladies are but a few of the powerful team at

Crossover Community Church.

Here's a yummy recipe to add to you November menu.

Pumpkin Dip

Mix:
Two blocks cream cheese, softened
4 C. powdered sugar
Add in:
30 ounces canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix)
2 t. cinnamon
1 t. ginger
Place in a bowl or small pie pumpkin (not a jack-o-lantern pumpkin) that has had the top cut off and been hollowed out.
Serve with apple slices or gingersnaps, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.

Quiet Time

2011-11-13T06:45:00.000-08:00

2 Corinthians 1:4

(NIV)

(God) who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

2011-11-11T04:38:00.000-08:00

2011-11-10T05:45:00.000-08:00

Hi lovelies,

I'm busy preparing to speak to the awesome ladies at the Crossover Community Church Retreat "Dare to be Armed and Dangerous" in High Point, NC beginning tomorrow.

I can't wait to share all the blessings we will witness.

Wednesday's Words of Wisdom

2011-11-09T03:41:00.001-08:00

Tuesday's Tune-up

2011-11-08T04:05:00.000-08:00

Are you an always on the "go" kind of girl?

Always being on the "go" means it takes some effort and intention to "be still".

Share your experience with choosing to be still and the results that followed.

These images always foster my stillness.

Monday's Message

2011-11-07T03:25:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday my lovelies,

I've been in a cleaning, organizing and donating mood lately.

How wonderful to find "long lost" items hiding in the back of closets and dresser drawers, but what has been even more rewarding is to letting things go.

I mean how many pair of black slacks does a girl really need?

Are you holding on to something unnecessarily?

How is that decision affecting the way you live your life?

Maybe your closets and dresser drawers are neat, tidy and organized; perhaps

you're holding onto something from your past.

Maybe you're holding onto a grudge or maybe bitterness is cluttering your mind and your heart.

If you are, I want to encourage you to consider:

Close your eyes - Pray and ask the Lord to help you...

Clear your heart - To make room for the peace of Christ.

Let it go - To experience the wholeness you're longing for.

Please check out Lisa Whittle's newest book [W]hole

I recently completed a study of [W]hole with Lisa Whittle and a group of extraordinary women. Each of us discovered things hiding in our own spiritual closets and [Whole] offers the encouragement to deal with them.

As you ponder your decision, check out these inspirational dream closets.

Quiet Time

2011-11-06T02:38:00.000-08:00

Zephaniah 3:17, For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.”

2011-11-04T04:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Weekend my lovelies,

I'm off to spend the day with one of my sweetest friends. Nancy is preparing for her destination wedding next week, and she's been very gracious to carve out some girl time for me.

Believe it or not, Thanksgiving is only 20 days away, so get your Thanksgiving decorating juices flowing, check out these tablescapes.

Wednesday Words of Wisdom

2011-11-01T16:36:00.001-07:00

I recently ran across this banner on a blog. What a thought provoking phrase...

I know from my life, it can be easy to get so wrapped up in living life I overlook the joy and blessings that are right in front of my face each day.

I'd love to hear how you find the joy and blessing in each day.

What do you do when you slip up and forget to notice?

How do you get back on track?

We are fast approaching the holiday season friends and our daily schedules will soon be filled with even more responsibilities, duties, parties, baking, shopping, singing, traveling, visiting, packing, unpacking, wrapping, unwrapping, cleaning and on and on and on....

If it's easy to overlook the joy and blessing today, how will we ever take notice as we approach the holiest of days ahead?

Here's a wonderful site that is a joy and a blessing for sure.

I hope you'll find some time to find the joy and blessing in this site.

Monday's Message

2011-10-31T03:33:00.001-07:00

Happy Monday my lovelies,

Do you have a (physical) space for inspiration?

I have a favorite chair in our den where I curl up as I read from God's word and spend time in prayer.

Before I share some inspiring places where I believe anyone could be inspired, let me ask if you have made some space in your day to be inspired?

Having an inspiring (physical) space is not enough friends, we must be committed to carving out some "quiet" space in our day.

It's in this quiet space where I believe life changing inspiration can begin.

Quiet Time

2011-10-30T04:43:00.001-07:00

Romans 8:37-39, No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

2011-10-28T06:33:00.000-07:00

Putting the final touches on things as our friends are en route.

Happy Weekend Friends!!

Tickled Pink

2011-10-26T06:20:00.003-07:00

Tickled Pink

2011-10-26T06:20:00.001-07:00

Monday's Message

2011-10-24T03:25:00.000-07:00

"I find it shelter to speak to you" - Emily Dickinson

Happy Monday lovelies,

I hope you have a friend who offers you shelter, I know I do.

My BFF is Lisa Barlow and we've been friends for 23 years. Lisa is a saint to say the least, but she's so much more than that. She has held my hand, wiped my tears, even been my partner in mischief.

She's everything I need in a BFF

Here are just a few of Lisa's BFF qualities:

She listens well and exudes grace.

She sees and speaks the truth in love (always).

She is self-less, giving and a true servant.

She is insightful as well as one of the smartest women I've ever known.

She is an encourager, cheerleader and mentor.

Here she is.

Mallory (our god-daughter), Rudy and the beautiful Lisa Barlow.

Tell me about your BFF.

Quiet Time

2011-10-23T04:57:00.001-07:00

Jeremiah 32: 17-19, “O Sovereign Lord! You made the heavens and earth by your strong hand and powerful arm. Nothing is too hard for you! You show unfailing love to thousands…You are the great and powerful God, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. You have all wisdom and do great and mighty miracles.”

2011-10-21T04:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Weekend lovelies,

To celebrate my little sister

and her birthday...

Here's a little BLING

Happy Birthday Maria.

Happy Weekend friends!

Wednesday Words of Wisdom

2011-10-19T04:20:00.000-07:00

Hello my lovelies,

Are you struggling to recognize and appreciate the REAL you?

Are you pre-occupied with your physical appearance?

What truths have you learned about balancing how you look and how you see?

Just to inspire you, here are a few beautiful images to enjoy.

Tuesday's Tune-up

2011-10-18T04:31:00.000-07:00

Hello my lovelies,

I believe we were made to have a relationship with God and one important purpose of spending time with God is to deepen our relationship with Him. Spending time with God daily will help us to cultivate that relationship. I have found having a continual conversation with the Lord throughout the day is most helpful in deepening that relationship. How do you structure your devotional time to ensure a meaningful, edifying, and purposeful time?

Stormy

2011-10-17T03:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday my lovelies,

Each of us has experienced the "storms of life" and I'm confident each of us has more than one story to tell. When I think about "storms of life" I think of a number of things our family has weathered. What about you friend, what storms can you share that challenged your spiritual foundation?

Luke 6:46, "He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well

built." (NIV)

Matthew 7:25-27, "The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. ²⁶ But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. ²⁷ The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” (NIV)

I've been studying this parable in these two books of the New Testament and I'm struck by many things. Today I'd like to rest on the fact that both houses were subjected to the same storms.

What words of wisdom can you share on the exhortation to build your house on a firm foundation?

Quiet Time

2011-10-16T07:08:00.001-07:00

John 16:33, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

2011-10-14T07:10:00.000-07:00

I saw this on a decorating site a few months ago and fell in LOVE. I saw it again today on anther blog and it rekindled my enthusiasm for this headboard.

If the headboard I ordered 4 months ago doesn't arrive, I think I'll look into doing something like this.

Happy Weekend my lovelies!

I'm Feeling Blue

2011-10-12T04:08:00.001-07:00

I'm feeling blue today my lovelies,

Tuesday's Tune-up

2011-10-11T04:19:00.001-07:00

Today I'm spending another day searching my house from top to bottom for an important item I've put away but cannot find. I can't say this isn't bringing me "Joy".

I think I'll use these images as inspiration.

What about you my lovelies, what is bringing you "Joy" today?

Monday's Message

2011-10-10T05:24:00.001-07:00

Hello my lovelies,

Monday's message is to spend this week celebrating who God created you to be.

Stop comparing yourself to others and stop wishing you were created differently.

Be GRATEFUL for who you, right where you are, and celebrate!!

I'm a girlie girl who loves everything PINK!

So... I'll be celebrating that fact that I'm a PINKIE girl!!

Here's an idea of what I love and appreciate about PINK.

Quiet Time

2011-10-09T05:33:00.000-07:00

Psalm 121:1-2, “I will lift my eyes unto the hills from where comes my help. My help comes from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.”

2011-10-06T04:08:00.000-07:00

Good morning lovelies,

What verses do you use when praising the Lord?

Psalm 100:2, Worship the LORD with gladness;

come before him with joyful songs." (NIV)

Psalm 117:1-2,

"Praise the LORD, all you nations;

extol him, all you peoples.

^{For great is his love toward us,}

and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD." (NIV)

Monday's Message

2011-10-03T03:00:00.000-07:00

I just love this picture, it reminds me of a scene I witnessed when staying in someone's home.

I was preparing to speak for an event and as I sipped my morning coffee, I tiptoed into the beautiful sunroom and witnessed the morning fog descending to the ground.

At that moment, I heard that small familiar voice whisper, "Baby girl, just as the morning fog is descending to the ground, my spirit is descending afresh and anew to you today."

Immediately, I was awash in perfect comfort and peace. Any nervousness and anxiety seemed to just melt away. Have you ever experienced that peace and comfort? I'd love to hear your story.

Enjoy

Quiet Time

2011-10-02T03:00:00.000-07:00

Exodus 14:13-14, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today…The Egyptians (enemy) you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”

I'm Seeing Green

2011-09-30T05:19:00.000-07:00

Enjoy your weekend!

Taking Steps

2011-09-29T03:26:00.000-07:00

Hello Lovelies,

Since I'm taking steps to shake things up a bit, I thought I'd take those steps in style.

My dream closet would include all of these.

Which shoe would you most like to wear today?

Enjoy!!

Wednesday Words of Wisdom

2011-09-28T04:02:00.000-07:00

Lately I've felt like a few parts of my life have run off the track and landed in a ditch. Maybe it's this time of transition, maybe its just menopause. Whatever the reason, I'm ready to crawl out of this ditch, dust off the dirt and begin shaking things up.

I'd love to hear your story about making changes and the results you experienced.

Here are few pretties to inspire you today.

Tuesday's Tune-up

2011-09-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

Hi lovelies,

I have to admit, I've spent most of my life trying to catch up instead of keep up.

What about you?

Monday's Message

2011-09-26T03:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday lovelies,

I'd love to begin a conversation about GOSSIP.

Gossip is one of those sins that often evade our spiritual radar. We tell friends about others’ faults, offenses, even sins without realizing that by doing so, we're guilty of the sin of gossip. It's easy to dismiss our sin with the excuse of “being concerned”. We forget that engaging in gossip will eat away at our spiritual maturity and devastates our witness before others.

Gossip is not "networking", It's not "sharing concerns" or "bringing someone up to speed".

Gossip exactly what your mother taught you. It is talking about someone behind his or her back. While the subject of our gossip might not be outrageous, our gossip will result in anger, bitterness, hurt feelings, even damaged relationships.

Don’t take my word for it, examine Romans 1:29-30, “They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents;” (NIV)

Look at that, gossip is just as heinous as being a God hater.

Gossip creates a false sense of piety. Behind the “honorable” mask of concern lies the ugly face of selfishness, insecurity and spiritual immaturity.

The next time you’re tempted to engage in gossip:

1. Recognize the truth that gossip is a sin.

2. Exercise the power of words to fortify and edify others.

3. Acknowledge the damaging effect gossip will have on others.

Friends, I've engaged in more gossip than I care to admit and I have experienced every negative outcome this sin brings. I hope you will join the conversation today and share your story.