tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71686138700485084032024-03-12T23:37:15.033-05:00Safe in HIS Arms...Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.comBlogger234125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-3319368640220901152012-08-29T17:39:00.000-05:002012-08-29T17:39:01.847-05:00help your friends out and make money.. say WHAT??? :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hello, Friends<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">! I know it's been FOREVER since I've posted.. this one will be short and sweet. I really wish I'd have thought to share this business opportunity with you WEEKS ago. (My bad. So sorry</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">!)</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">At any rate.. there is this wrap.. an AWESOME wrap. It can literally tone and tighten your tummy (or whatever area you wrap) in only </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 2px; color: #222222; white-space: nowrap;">45 minutes. Crazy, right?? It REALLY does work</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">! At any rate.. I'd LOVE to sell you one, but today I'm offering you a chance to become a distributor yourself. See, until September </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">1st, you can buy your It Works! kit for only </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">$99. After that it'll cost </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">$199. It gets better -- in your kit you'll get a box of 4 wraps that will more than pay for itself</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">! NO kidding</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">! Click on the picture above for all the information you'll need to get an idea how much money you can make. (In this case, the sky truly is the limit) The wraps work so well they actually sell themselves. The lady who just signed under me told me this is the easiest job she's ever had. AWESOME</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">Oh, and did I mention that if you get in before the deadline you'll be qualified to earn the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">$10,000 GET OUT OF DEBT BONUS?? They give you four months to earn it - a VERY GENEROUS amount of time. ;) The lady I signed under earned hers in UNDER TWO months. WHOOHOO</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">Okay, so </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">$99 to sign up until </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">September </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">1st.. the ONLY requirement is that you order a minimum of </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">$80 a month each month after to maintain your distributor status. That part is easy - again, invest it in wraps and you'll DOUBLE your investment. This is such a great opportunity for those who work in the public. (Salons, gyms, spas.. ANYWHERE! Of course they also sell like crazy through facebook) ;)</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 17px;">Please check out <a href="https://tonya.myitworks.com/">my personal website</a> if you're interested. You may also email me at wrapwithtonya</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 2px; color: #555555; font-family: arial, sans-serif; white-space: nowrap;">@gmail.com</span><br />
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https://tonya.myitworks.com/HomeTonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-51936413916902571072012-01-20T07:33:00.001-06:002012-01-20T08:35:38.219-06:00<div><br /></div><div>I had actually already written a post, but due to the fact that I hadn't researched the person/blog I was sharing, I decided to pull most of what I'd written. (I don't want to send you off to another blog thinking that because I sent you, that I'm in complete agreement with all of the content on the blog... and I may be, but I've not read it yet so I don't know. LOL!) Now, back to what's left of my original post from this morning. O:)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoOeEXDJBrI/TxlsqPD71BI/AAAAAAAACaw/HlpHGQ7IRYA/s1600/reaching-out-romans-10-9.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoOeEXDJBrI/TxlsqPD71BI/AAAAAAAACaw/HlpHGQ7IRYA/s400/reaching-out-romans-10-9.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699706276267414546" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Romans 10:9 is a beautiful reminder of how God takes us right in the middle of our sin, and does something WONDERFUL! I just love that about Him. I love that He doesn't give us a list of laws to keep and <i>then</i> one ONLY then, offer salvation. Nope. He loves and accepts us just as we are - in all our brokenness.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sending (((Hugs))) and lots of love, </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-54994013797447125472012-01-18T10:50:00.004-06:002012-01-18T12:17:43.784-06:00submission - it's a beautiful thing!Okay, so I said I'd be posting more often and had honestly intended to do just that. However, our internet went down the day after this post and we JUST got it repaired yesterday. (The internet repair guy pointed out that <i>SOMEONE</i> had run over the satellite pole "several times". I was quite surprised that he even commented on this.. I was absolutely under the conclusion that EVERYONE runs over EXTREMELY LARGE objects while mowing?) HA! At any rate.. I'm VERY HAPPY to be able to play online again. <div><br /></div><div>On to more serious things..</div><div><br /></div><div>I'd mentioned in my last post that God has done some TREMENDOUS things in my marriage over the past few years. It all started changing when we finally realized we were about to lose Brent.. Link completely fell apart and apologized for ________. (I'm not going to mention his mistakes/wrongdoings here.. I didn't come to point fingers.. I'm only sharing this because it's a HUGE part of where our marriage began to turn around) I forgave him, and apologized for my failures/shortcomings too. As I mentioned, I'm not here to share my hubby's faults, only my own - in hopes of sharing a truth that I've learned. A truth that breathed new LIFE into my marriage! </div><div><br /></div><div>Fast-forward a bit.. not long after we lost Brent, God brought a couple into our lives. My sweet friend is one of those ladies who quickly speaks her mind - and does not withhold correction/rebuke. We began walking together which of course led to long talks. As we spent more time together she started sharing with me areas that she saw where I was NOT living out my calling as Link's wife. I was NOT a Titus 2 woman at all, at least not when it came to loving my husband the way God called me to. </div><div><br /></div><div>It all boiled down to submission and how I responded to Link in moments of anger. (Back-talking, arguing with him when I didn't agree with what he said, or what he was doing.. the huffing, crossing of arms.. ANY physical symbol of not approving) Am I saying that we don't have the right as wives to express our feelings? Absolutely not! However, there are times for EVERYTHING. I learned that there is much wisdom in learning to practice self-control when I don't agree with my man rather than immediately contradicting him. (I'd seen many, many times in my life where the woman argues almost EVERY point with her man rather than praying and asking GOD to handle things) I'd been so used to arguing that it became my FIRST response even before taking a moment to realize that my hubby was actually RIGHT. (Now THAT'S embarrassing!) </div><div><br /></div><div>The friend that I mentioned earlier gave me the book, <a href="http://nogreaterjoy.org/blogs/createdtobehishelpmeet/">Created to Be His Helpmeet</a>, and was it EVER LIFE-CHANGING! Honestly, next to the Bible itself this is THE BEST book I've ever read! There may be parts of it that one may not agree with, but if you read it with a humble heart - HONESTLY SEARCHING for God's will for yourself, you WILL go away BLESSED and <b>CHANGED</b>! (You can also buy this book on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/1892112604/?tag=googhydr-20&hvadid=5195460749&ref=pd_sl_647819ukp0_b">amazon.com</a>.. the Kindle edition lists for $7.69.) I'm pretty sure that I've talked about this book here before, but it is such a TREMENDOUS part of my story that I just had to share it today.</div><div><br /></div><div>I guess it all boils down to how I've seen the role of submission transform my own marriage. Have I got it down perfectly? Of course not! I'm still learning, I'm still growing, and I still find myself biting my tongue when every fiber of my being is screaming out to say something. I <i>have</i> learned that when my hubs is in the wrong - to start praying IMMEDIATELY! Who is more capable of changing his heart, God, or me? That's a silly question, isn't it? Yet, it's SO HARD to push down the flesh and just let God be God. The Bible says that God is NOT the author of confusion. (1 Corinthians 14:33) It also tells us that, "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; ">the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the <sup class="xref" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29328B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: 0.5em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; "></sup>head of the church, He Himself <sup class="xref" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29328C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: 0.5em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; "></sup>being the Savior of the body." - Ephesians 5:23. This just run so much more beautifully when we do things God's way. Amen? :)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; ">I've just begun reading a new book today and have been encouraged with what I'm reading so far. The name of the book is, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Feminine-Appeal-New-Expanded-Questions/dp/1581346158/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1326907756&sr=8-1" style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; ">Feminine Appeal: Seven Virtues of a Godly Wife and Mother.</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> (The Kindle edition is $7.99) I've been encouraged to re-examine Titus 2 and to step back and look at how I'm loving my husband and children. Believe me, I've learned the hard way that you never, EVER want to have regrets. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One last MAJOR issue that goes along with submission is that of respect. Here again, I find myself recommending ANOTHER book. (Sorry!) This one is called, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/1594153205/ref=asc_df_15941532051864467?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=asn&creative=395093&creativeASIN=1594153205">Love & Respect</a>. (The Kindle edition is $8.99) </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; ">It was so helpful to me to realize that I show my husband love when I show him respect. Just as we (women) crave hugs, compliments, and kisses - our men long to be admired, lifted up, and RESPECTED! It shows a tremendous lack of disrespect when I immediately began to backtalk Link.. to challenge him. He doesn't NEED me to tell him how to do things. HE is the one God put in charge of our home. Again, if I feel he's wrong, I go to <b><i>God</i></b> with it. If I feel that this won't be an issue of contempt, and I feel safe (safe meaning that I feel like my comment/response won't lead to an argument) THEN, I will share my thoughts or opinions. If, however, I do feel that he'd feel challenged by my response --- I take it to God in prayer!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; ">To sum up what I've learned:</span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:85%;">God put the man as the head of the home - therefore he does NOT need woman to correct/rebuke/challenge him at every turn. If I disagree with something I can voice it lovingly, but after that it NEEDS to go to GOD in prayer! (After that it becomes nagging - drip, drip, drip!) :o</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:85%;">My man doesn't need or want me constantly telling him what to do, or how to do it. He is NOT my child, he is <b><i>my MAN</i></b>! (mmm-hmmm!) ;)</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:85%;">I was created to be HIS helper, NOT the other way around!</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:85%;">I should put into practice what I was taught as a small child: If I don't have something nice to say, I shouldn't say anything at all. </span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:85%;">I should never, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, EVER-EVER correct him in public! If we're in public and he's accidentally giving out false information I can and should quietly share the facts. Doing otherwise might lead him to feel disrespected, or cause his friends to feel that way. (I sure wouldn't want him embarrassing me in front of my friends!)</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:85%;">The respect thing seems to be as much a need for a man as the show of love is to a woman.. I should ALWAYS let my sweet hubs know how much I appreciate and love him!</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:85%;">This is random, but since I've learned about that whole love & respect thing - all of those commercials where the woman blatantly disrespects her husband DISGUSTS me! It not only dishonors men, but it dishonors our loving GOD! People are watching us! </span></li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Please hear me say that I DO NOT feel like I have all of the answers. I'm ONLY sharing what I've seen in scripture and what I've seen in my own life. When I began to practice these principles, Link began to feel less defensive with me. We began to argue less and less.. he began to talk MORE.. we started to ENJOY each other on a level that we never have before. I can honestly say that he is a different man (giving GOD ALL the glory!) and I'm blessed with a marriage that I'd only dreamed of before! If you're struggling with the way you respond to your husband the way that I have and sometimes do, I'd like to encourage you to pray and study every scripture you can find on marriage. Study those on love, and respect, and how God instructs us as believers to live. It'll change your life, I promise! ;)</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-45871725784930522262012-01-11T14:50:00.003-06:002012-01-11T15:19:56.976-06:00finally catching up...Hello, my sweet bloggy friends! I've been saying for a while now (give or take a couple of years) that I was gonna attempt blogging again. I'd actually planned on trying during the holidays. I'd planned on journaling Brent's last Christmas with us, but this was the first year since he left us that I wasn't struggling horribly with everything about Christmas and remembering all of the hard memories that come with it. I mostly just wanted to be happy. I wanted to look forward all of the things that I've always loved about this time of year.. besides, Brent would want us to be happy.<br /><br />With that said, we did have a very nice Christmas. I struggled some with New Year's Eve, then the next two days that follow, but as always - getting Jan. 2 behind us seemed to put an end to all of the dread for another year. (That's of course NOT to say that we don't miss Brent with every breath - it's just that all of those hard memories start in October and weigh heavy on my heart right up until the day AFTER he got his Heavenly healing) I can't say all of that without saying how VERY THANKFUL we are to KNOW that life doesn't end here - that stepping over into eternity is REALLY where it all begins. We're SO THANKFUL that we KNOW that Brent is with Jesus! (I'm still thinking I may move some of those last posts from Caringbridge over so that I'll be able to find them quickly. Those were the hardest days of our lives, but def the most miraculous and beautiful as well. <3<br /><br />On to other things.. I realized when I pulled up my blog that I REALLY NEED to update my photos and information on here. Zach is now 14 and Gabe is 11. They both look more like little men now, than the baby-faced pictures that I have posted here. As soon as I have time to play around and see if I can remember how everything works, I'll post new pics. ;)<br /><br />I have so much to tell you. God has done some MIGHTY things in our lives. My marriage is a kagillion times better than it's ever been. (Yes, I know that kagillion isn't a word, and that if it was a word I probably misspelled it, but that's okay.. I'm weird and totally okay with that) ;) I may attempt a post highlighting all of the beautiful ways that God has brought about these changes. With all of that said -- I'm SOOOO CRAZY about my man, and eternally THANKFUL for him!<br /><br />Another major change is that I've lost some weight. (Of course you already know that if we're friends on facebook)<br /><br />At one point I'd lost 65 pounds, but I found a few of them back during the holidays. O:) No, worries, I'm gonna outrun them again soon. Very soon, I hope. The weight-loss thing is yet another answer to prayer. God is faithful!<br /><br />Well, I think that'll wrap me up for today. I'd really wanted to jump back into blogging and truly had no idea where to start. I think I just followed my ADHD around and posted random things as they came to mind. Sorry if it was hard to follow me. HA! Maybe I'll be a little more organized in the future.<br /><br />I'll leave you today with a scripture that we've been memorizing this week..<br /><br />13 You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. ~ Jeremiah 29:13Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-74869357955595272462011-02-04T22:39:00.003-06:002011-02-04T22:45:13.771-06:00checking in..Hello, Friends!<br /><br /><br />It's been SO LONG since I've posted. WOW! I've been thinking that I'd like to try blogging regularly again, but haven't taken the time to start. God has shown me so much over the past few years and I'd love to share some of it with you. (I know that He's brought us down this path not only to draw us closer to Himself, but so that we might also encourage others) I want to be open to whatever God has for me, so I'm prayerfully considering keeping up my blog again. (I stopped because it became so time-consuming.. I've GOT to keep God, then my family first... Amen?) :)<br /><br />I hope to check back again soon. For REAL this time... LOL!Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-12218174681122697452009-10-28T07:03:00.006-05:002009-10-28T11:06:59.583-05:00celebrating Brent and giveaway winners...<u><span style="color:#800080;"></span></u><br /><br />WOW.. I can't believe I didn't even get ONE post in since I mentioned the giveaway.. I'm SUCH a slacker! <img alt="Image hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mhafxh.jpg" /> Oh well.. on with the update.<br /><br />So it was 14 years ago TODAY that God gave us one of our most precious and treasured gifts, He gave us our firstborn son.<br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Sug9ENyoq0I/AAAAAAAACYw/9hZPiPDiKWk/s1600-h/dxbb5c.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397631296034351938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 291px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Sug9ENyoq0I/AAAAAAAACYw/9hZPiPDiKWk/s400/dxbb5c.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Brent was as beautiful and healthy as any new mom could wish for. All ten fingers and toes were there.. he had hair the color of his daddy's, and his skin was as pink and soft as could be. He was PERFECT. We never knew what a short time we'd have to spend with this <strong><em>AMAZING</em></strong> gift, but OH the things he taught us in his short life!<br /><br />Those of you that have been with us for any length of time have probably already heard me tell of how Brent started telling those he loved how they needed <strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#990000;">JESUS</span></strong>. (This started happening when he was only 4. He was told Zach - who was <strong>TWO</strong> at the time that he should ask Jesus to save him <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em>NOW</em></span></strong>.. ha!) </p><p>Brent "officially" accepted Christ as his SAVIOR on Easter Sunday at the age of 8. Yes, he was something special from the beginning. Our boy is such a treasure! (I hate to speak of him in past tense because he <strong><em><span style="color:#6633ff;">IS</span></em></strong> still ALIVE, AMEN?? He's actually MORE ALIVE in Heaven than we are here) </p><p>Oh, how I'd love to share <em>all</em> the details and all the ways he blessed us, but that might very well take FOREVER. <img alt="Image hosted by TinyPic.com" src="http://tinypic.com/ip0b3l.gif" /> To say he was a blessing to all of us would be a tremendous understatement. </p><p>I'd like to say a SPECIAL "THANK YOU" to all of you that are, and have been celebrating his LIFE with us this month!! It's a WONDERFUL feeling to know that he's remembered. </p><p>My challenge to you today is to ask you to do a random act of kindness for someone today in memory of Brent. He absolutely LOVED to make other people happy. It doesn't take much to bless someone.. it might be as small a gesture as offering a smile to the next person you meet. (You never know what might be going on in the heart of the stranger you meet on the street.. they too may be dealing with the loss, or pending loss of a loved one)</p><p>Yes, our boy was also <em>DELIGHTED</em> by giving gifts to others! That's why I chose to celebrate his LIFE by having a giveaway on his birthday. With that said.. the winners are..............</p><p></p><p><br />for the bloggy makeover... <a href="http://afullheart.blogspot.com/">Erin</a> </p><p></p><p>the Bible on CD - Laura - (I don't have any contact info.. please email me with your mailing info so I can get this out to you!) </p><p></p><p>a set of candles - <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/01847564334928464883">Lisa Shaw</a> </p><p></p><p>a Paula Dean Cookbook (did I spell her last name right?) - <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/16284466678871353733">Nen</a><br /><br />bath & shower gel - <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13114076859455081016">April</a> </p><p></p><p>bath & shower gel - <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/17247824698674815568">Jill</a><br /><br />and finally, a Lunch for Life cookbook. This is a special cookbook put together by families that have/had children with neuroblastoma. There is a picture of Brent and one of his FAVORITE breads inside - <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/05151128140345216126">Teresa</a> </p><p></p><p><br /><br /><br />Congratulations to all of our winners! Would you please email me with your mailing addresses so I can get this out to you? ☺ <a href="mailto:nason5@aol.com">nason5@aol.com</a> </p><p>I SO WISH I could send something to EVERYONE! THANKS again for visiting and for joining us as we remember our sweet little man.<br /><br /><br />(Happy Birthday, Sweet Boy, we love you all the way to HEAVEN and back! We count ourselves BLESSED to have been your parents)<br /><br /></p><p><br /></p>Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com61tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-46837162696740228472009-10-05T08:04:00.005-05:002009-10-06T00:15:26.874-05:00celebrating Brent's life with a giveaway!<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://nason5.blogspot.com/2008/10/my-first-bloggy-giveaway.html"><img alt="[Click here to find out more]" src="http://i35.tinypic.com/29dznti.jpg" align="middle" /></a> </p><br /><br /><br />Yes, it's that time again... It's time to celebrate Brent's life by having a giveaway on his birthday. He would be 14 this year.. man, I can hardly believe it. <img src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mh9jyd.jpg" alt="Image hosting by TinyPic"> <br /><br />Brent had the BIGGEST HEART EVER and absolutely LOVED to give gifts! That's why it seems only right that we celebrate him this way. I would LOVE for you to read (or at least look over <a href="http://nason5.blogspot.com/2008/10/my-first-bloggy-giveaway.html">THIS POST</a> that I did last year announcing last years life celebration) This post will really give you a peek into what a GENEROUS heart our little man had! <img alt="Image hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mh9kjp.gif" /><br /><br />So THIS YEAR I'll be giving away at least two gifts and will challenge you to do a R.A.K. (random act of kindness) in celebration of his amazing life on his birthday, October 28.<br /><br /><br />I'm still working through the details, but one of the gifts will be a blog makeover designed by "<a href="http://designgirlpayments.blogspot.com/">The Design Girl</a>". (She's the lady that designed my blog.. I REALLY LOVE her work!) I've already made the down payment and my name is on the list so the winner won't have a really long wait! YAY!! <img src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mh9jyd.jpg" alt="Image hosting by TinyPic"><br /><br /><br /><br />Another gift I'm really excited about is this...<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsnkLdVSzkI/AAAAAAAACYo/EEbogfsR81A/s1600-h/wop_BibleMedium.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389089314629144130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 100px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 173px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsnkLdVSzkI/AAAAAAAACYo/EEbogfsR81A/s400/wop_BibleMedium.png" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This of course is "The Word of Promise Full Bible".<br /><br />I "<a href="https://seizoom.com/GroupView.aspx?id=a82bf20b-66ef-4614-8ddb-8fdafcea7484">borrowed</a>" the product description.. check it out!<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#000099;">Product Description:<br /><br />"Come experience the entire Bible recorded with an all-star cast led by an all-star cast of actors, including Jim Caviezel as Jesus, Richard Dreyfus as Moses, Gary Sinise as David, Jason Alexander as Joseph, Marisa Tomei, Louis Gossett Jr., and over 600 actors contributing to this timeless work. This audio Bible is produced with state of the art audio technology. Including sound effects and an original musical score. This is a new experience in audio Bible like none before. There are 79 CDs in this set."</span><br /><br /><br />I heard about this while listening to the Rick & Bubba show the other day. The guy that's doing Jesus' voice is the same guy that played Jesus in "The Passion of the Christ". <p></p><p>Now, It seems like this isn't just your regular audio Bible. (It's not some monotone voice going on and on and on... ) It's a WHOLE CAST of people reading/speaking out the WORD just as it appears in the Bible. (It's done in the very trusted NKJV) I've ordered one for ourselves, but haven't gotten it in yet. I'm thinking this is going to be AMAZING! If you want to hear a sample of it for yourself click <a href="http://thewordofpromise.com/">HERE</a>. <br /><br /></p><p>Okay, so the only rule is this:</p><p>Leave a comment for the giveaway on THIS post ONLY. This will keep it simple! (I'll "link back" to this post each time I post to keep it easy for everyone)</p><p>If you want extra entries you can... </p><p>- post this graphic/link in your sidebar - 5 entries <br /><br /><center><a href="http://nason5.blogspot.com/2009/10/celebrating-brents-life-with-giveaway.html"><img src="http://i36.tinypic.com/121fi35.jpg"/></a><p align="center"><br/><textarea rows="4" cols="25" name="Remembering Brent with a bloggy giveaway!"> <a href="http://nason5.blogspot.com/2009/10/celebrating-brents-life-with-giveaway.html"> <center><img src="http://i36.tinypic.com/121fi35.jpg"/></center></a> </textarea></p></center><br /><br /></p><p>- mention this giveaway and in a post - encouraging others to do a "R.A.K." in honor and celebration of Brent's life - another 5 extra entries</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><br />Of course you're free to enter as many times as you'd like! ☺ Remember, the drawing will be held on October 28... if you do anything for extra entries please say so in a comment so you'll get the credit. ☺</p><p></p>Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-53766023161982801372009-10-02T14:19:00.010-05:002009-10-05T08:07:05.240-05:00love, love, LOVE these boys!The last post I did was to encourage everyone that wanted to, to eat at Chili's on a certain day and support St. Jude. (I was asked by someone in the comments if this fundraiser would be at all locations and I never got to answer - SO SORRY! Had sick kiddos and were gone to the docs office.. it was an all day run)<br /><br />Anyway, on to what I wanted to share today.. ☺<br /><br />While our son, Brent, was sick, we met lots of wonderful people, many through his caringbridge site. The two families that I'll be sharing with you today QUICKLY became <em><strong>FAMILY</strong></em> to us.<br /><br />You've probably heard me talk about my friend <a href="http://susan2956.blogspot.com/">Susan</a>? (She's a friend/spiritual mom to me) Then there's <a href="http://www.johnsonparty.blogspot.com/">Jill</a>, she's another sister with an incredibly <strong><em>STRONG</em></strong> faith! she and her son Cooper flew all the way here to take part in "Brent Nason Day" back in September 06..<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsnelGwXkkI/AAAAAAAACYg/iVwPFyE8gKQ/s1600-h/Brent+%26+Boys+184.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389083158175519298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsnelGwXkkI/AAAAAAAACYg/iVwPFyE8gKQ/s400/Brent+%26+Boys+184.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />(Pictured: Brent and Ash in the chair, starting on the left in the back.. Zach, Gabe, Clay and Cooper)<br /><br /><br />Jill and Susan are also long time prayer warriors for our family.. I SO LOVE these ladies and their precious families!)<br /><br /><br />So our buddy <a href="http://www.caringbridge.org/la/jordanamato/">Jordan</a> (which is Susan's son) and our friend Cooper, who is Jill's son both colored peppers for Brent. (Since Cooper doesn't have a caringbridge site, PRAISE GOD he's HEALTHY!!... I'll link you to his sister <a href="http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/huttonjohnson">Hutton's site</a>.. Hutton is a little MIRACLE baby... you'd be BLESSED to read her story and to get to know their family too)<br /><br />My heart just melted when I saw these!<br /><br /><br />This is Cooper....<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsZTBWW5q3I/AAAAAAAACYQ/zyI3qu-cz5Y/s1600-h/Cooper+for+Brent.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388085286841985906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsZTBWW5q3I/AAAAAAAACYQ/zyI3qu-cz5Y/s400/Cooper+for+Brent.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p></p><br /><p>and this is our buddy Jordan...<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsZTBnINMTI/AAAAAAAACYY/AHnVx527Ds0/s1600-h/Jordan,+for+Brent.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388085291343753522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsZTBnINMTI/AAAAAAAACYY/AHnVx527Ds0/s400/Jordan,+for+Brent.jpg" border="0" /></a> </p><br /><p></p><br /><p>Yes, it's just WONDERFUL to know that Brent is remembered by his friends! I literally "teared up" when I saw these pics. Precious, <strong><em>PRECIOUS</em></strong> boys! </p><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br />Okay, friends.. stay tuned! I'm already working on my next post where I'll be announcing my next giveaway. (This is how we'll be celebrating Brent's life this year on his birthday) ☺<br /><br />Have a WONDERFUL day!!!Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-16691701235233867942009-09-28T08:15:00.005-05:002009-09-28T08:35:16.578-05:00Eat Chili's today - Help St. Jude =-)<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsC6VTJYjII/AAAAAAAACYA/idkMrYLgrOI/s1600-h/chilis.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 258px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsC6VTJYjII/AAAAAAAACYA/idkMrYLgrOI/s320/chilis.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386510029414763650" /></a><br /><br /><br />YIKES! I almost forgot to mention that by eating at Chili's today you'll be helping fund research for St. Jude. Yes, Chili's will be donating <em><strong>100 PERCENT</strong></em> of their profit from today to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital!! <br /><br />I thought that before I go I'd share a picture of Brent from a few years back. We'd gone on out one of these Chili's/St. Jude events to do our part. ☺ In the pic below is our precious Brent with Madelyn Beamon (another "Heaven Healed Neuroblastoma Warrior"), her mom Brandi, her Daddy Neal, and her brother Tyler. It's so hard to believe that so many children we knew from St. Jude are in Heaven now. Research is DESPERATELY needed and funding is the key. What better way to help out than eating at Chili's? Can you think of a better place to eat lunch/supper today? (I mean, if you were eating out anyway.. haha)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsC5zVgvU4I/AAAAAAAACX4/sxpDUhzfgk0/s1600-h/Brent+%26+Boys+138.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsC5zVgvU4I/AAAAAAAACX4/sxpDUhzfgk0/s400/Brent+%26+Boys+138.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386509445934044034" /></a><br /><br /><br />This is a pic of Brent with his cousin Clay, who was also one of his very best friends. ☺<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsC7YE0TB3I/AAAAAAAACYI/lPJ8Ei8zf14/s1600-h/Brent+%26+Boys+139.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsC7YE0TB3I/AAAAAAAACYI/lPJ8Ei8zf14/s400/Brent+%26+Boys+139.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386511176619460466" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Thanks for putting up with me twice in one day.. LOL! I hope you have a GREAT week!<br /><br />Love,<br />TonyaTonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-86961532792436664782009-09-28T07:12:00.004-05:002009-09-28T07:23:58.488-05:00a yummy freebie while supplies last!<a href="http://www.smuckers.com/promotions/"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsCpuWqsacI/AAAAAAAACXo/G6pXMd6Gtxo/s1600-h/uncrustables.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386491768158841282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 184px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SsCpuWqsacI/AAAAAAAACXo/G6pXMd6Gtxo/s320/uncrustables.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Hello, Friends!<br /><br />As much as I'd like to do a heartfelt post this morning, I just don't have the time. I DO however want to let you in on something I just found out about. If you click <a href="http://www.smuckers.com/promotions/">smuckers.com/promotions</a>, you'll have the chance to submit a time-saving idea and get a coupon for FREE uncrustables. When the page opens click on "see details". HURRY, it's only open to the first 20,000 entries! </a>Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-34577628070961255962009-09-19T11:06:00.007-05:002009-09-19T11:21:15.757-05:00zach found a treasure today..Hello, Friends! <br /><br />This will be a quick post because I'm afraid I'd be an emotional mess if I try to put too much into this one. Zach was playing on one of Brent's old laptops and found some video footage of Brent that I don't remember seeing before. <br /><br />It's a TRUE <em><strong>blessing</strong></em> to find these little "footprints" that Brent left behind, but OH SO HARD on the heart! (I just LOVE to hear Brent's voice.. I LOVE the country twang that they all have.. precious, PRECIOUS memories!)<br /><br />I'll end by saying that I'm SO VERY THANKFUL that Brent KNEW our LORD and that we KNOW he's in Heaven waiting for us! What a TRUE JOY it is to have the BLESSED HOPE of an ETERNITY with our JESUS!<br /><br /><OBJECT class=BLOG_video_class id=BLOG_video-62555675c38948bf height=266 width=320 contentId="62555675c38948bf"></OBJECT>Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-18987870691516016002009-09-18T07:02:00.004-05:002009-09-18T07:39:39.441-05:00how to save BIG with coupons..Hello, Friends!
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<br />Okay, so as I mentioned yesterday I will be sharing some money-saving tips I've gleaned from a couple of friends (and of course my sister-in-law who is also my friend). <img alt="Image hosted by TinyPic.com" src="http://tinypic.com/ip0cif.jpg" />
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<br />See, I've not been the most frugal of all folks - in fact, I've hardly been frugal at all. Now, I'll be the FIRST to "google" for coupons when I'm shopping online. It's really just too easy to not do it, but when it came to clipping coupons.. well, I had a BAJILLION excuses NOT to. (Mostly just carelessness)
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<br />The Bible has PLENTY to say about making wise decisions and managing what God has given us. As I thought about what it means to be a helpmeet to my husband and the decisions I make daily, a couple of verses came to mind...
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<br /><strong>Proverbs 31:17-18</strong>
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<br />17 She sets about her work vigorously;
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<br />18 She sees that her trading is <em><strong>profitable</strong></em>,
<br />and her lamp does not go out at night.
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<br />Obviously I have NOT been the most helpful helpmmet, but "PRAISE THE LORD, I SAW THE LIGHT"~ (Sorry, I just remembered watching David Crowder sing this on YouTube) Check it out if you've got a second... <img alt="Image hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mh9kjp.gif" />
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<br /><center><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/uL3Dp0CBJwE&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/uL3Dp0CBJwE&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></center>
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<br />Okay, so I'll stop with the rambling and move on to what I've learned... <img src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mhafxh.jpg" alt="Image hosting by TinyPic">
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<br />First, I got started by checking a few sites online. My FAVORITE is <a href="http://www.thegrocerygame.com/">The Grocery Game</a>. Yes, there is a small fee, but it is BY FAR the EASIEST to use and will pay for itself the FIRST time you shop! (It's the easiest to use for me anyway) Oh, and did I mention there is a <a href="https://www.thegrocerygame.com/con__DollarTrial.cfm">FREE trial membership</a> to The Grocery Game? You can watch this quick video that will give you an idea how this program works....
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<br /><center><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/a2X7i4faG44&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/a2X7i4faG44&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></center>
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<br />I did find another site that helps you plan your shopping list the way the other does, but it just doesn't seem to be as easy to understand and takes a little longer to map out. (A plus for this one is that it's FREE!) It's <a href="http://www.couponmom.com/">couponmom.com</a> I ABSOLUTELY LOVE this site too because from there you can print FREE coupons!! (These aren't the little .25 ones that you get in the newspapers - though I DO clip those too.. MANY of the ones on this site are $1.00 or more!)
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<br />So whether you decide to go with The Grocery Game or Coupon Mom, the idea is the same. Your goal will be to use your coupons buying ONLY the items that are on sale. Under the <a href="http://www.thegrocerygame.com/con__CustomerService.cfm">FAQ'S</a> on the The Grocery Game they tell you that they know when items are at their lowest price and that's when they recommend you buy them. (Thus NEVER paying full price for anything)
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<br />Since I've started shopping this way, I've knocked a HUGE HOLE in the amount I'd normally spend. For instance, tonight I stopped in Kroger and spent 29.00, but I SAVED $25! Granted, grocery stores are usually much higher than shopping somewhere like Walmart, but the idea is that you ONLY buy the "loss leaders". (Those are the items that the stores cut WAY DOWN just to get you in the store.. THOSE are the items we use our coupons for to get MAXIMUM savings!!)
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<br />It's really fun to shop this way because you'll get items that you might not normally splurge on. For instance, this week I got an AirWick Automatic Spray Kit similar to this one... <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SrLwRRtpZeI/AAAAAAAACXc/p2I1QAAYasg/s1600-h/300.jpg">
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SrLwRRtpZeI/AAAAAAAACXc/p2I1QAAYasg/s1600-h/300.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382628684264465890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/SrLwRRtpZeI/AAAAAAAACXc/p2I1QAAYasg/s320/300.jpg" border="0" /></a> for only .99 and it lists in Kroger for about $13! (Or about $10 at Walmart) It was on my "Terri's List" for the week and I was just beside myself when I got it for UNDER $1! (I know, I'm WAAAYYY TOO EASILY amused) <img alt="Image hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mh9a11.gif" />
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<br />Another cool thing about couponing??? If you have a Kroger Card (you get those in the store by filling out a quick little questionnaire) you can load coupons on it BEFORE you ever leave home. However, what REALLY gets me about this is that it will take the coupon that you've loaded on your card AND a paper coupon on the SAME item! (However, the coupons on the card WON'T double.. but I'm pretty sure the paper ones DO up to .55 and then you STILL get the coupon you loaded from home!) You can do this by going to <a href="http://shortcuts.com/">shortcuts.com</a> and registering your shopping card. Then you pick out the coupons you want and it automatically loads them! Oh, I keep talking about Kroger.. they are one of the major chains in <em>my</em> area.. shortcuts.com works with SEVERAL DIFFERENT stores. You can find a list of their partner stores <a href="http://shortcuts.com/stores">HERE</a>.
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<br />Again, the idea is to buy things that are at their "rock bottom" price. (Avoiding other things unless necessary) Last week Kroger had a 10 for $10 sale. I had coupons on at least two of the items so I paid only .50 per item instead of $1. (I can't remember for the life of me what those items were.. LOL) Kroger doesn't even require you to actually BUY all 10 of the 10 items.. ANY item that's listed within that sale will be $1 each. I REALLY LOVE to find the "buy one get one" sales! With these you can use TWO coupons (one on each item) bringing your total even LOWER!!
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<br />Okay, I think I've rambled enough for one day. If I think of any other major secrets that I've learned I'll share them in my next post. I wish you all HAPPY shopping! <img alt="Image hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mh9cwi.gif" />
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<br />Wait! Before I sign off I wanted to "link" you to my friend <a href="http://mnmspiveyplustwins.blogspot.com/2009/09/i-learned-how-to-save-money.html">Molly</a>. She's one of the friends I've been gleaning from. She also has a post <a href="http://mnmspiveyplustwins.blogspot.com/2009/09/my-amazing-cvs-deal.html">here</a> on how to save BIG at CVS! I think Molly actually explained this MUCH MORE CLEARLY than I just did. <img src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mh9kjp.gif" alt="Image hosting by TinyPic">
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<br />I hope you all have a WONDERFUL weekend! If you're new to this too, don't forget to get your Sunday paper! The larger ones usually have a LOT of coupons in them. (Another heads-up.. the paper on September 27 is supposed to have over $90 in P&G coupons!) Go <a href="https://www.pgeverydaysolutions.com/pgeds/brandsampler.jsp">HERE</a> to sign up for a sample and some GREAT manufacturers coupons!
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<br />Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-78769127589945485752009-09-17T07:20:00.002-05:002009-09-17T14:10:00.238-05:00Wow, I CANNOT believe it's been so long since I've posted here! I have so much to share with you but really have NO IDEA where to begin. I suppose I can start by saying that I've MISSED all of you (my bloggy buddies)! Oh, I'll also go ahead and tell you that I plan to do two posts this morning. I'd promised some friends that I'd give the details on a new hobby I've started, but I don't want to mix that in with all the "blah, blah, blah, blah-blah" that I'll be doing. <img src="http://tinypic.com/ip0cif.jpg" alt="Image hosted by TinyPic.com"><br /><br />(Still fumbling to find a starting place.. heehee)<br /><br />Let's see, summer came and went.. we had a pretty nice garden until the CROWS found it. HA! (They even ate my tomatoes while they were STILL GREEN!) I decided I'd just give up on the yummy red fruit and focus on my bell peppers, cucumbers, and green beans. Guess what?? Our baby cows found a nice ditch under the fence that they could fit through and they ended up finding my green beans! (Seriously, I'm thinking the garden was NOT supposed to happen this year.. HA!) I won't complain, we DID get several pints of bell pepper and green beans in the freezer and were pretty much sick of the cucumbers before they ever went bad, so all was not lost. <img src="http://tinypic.com/aerwup.gif" alt="Image hosted by TinyPic.com"><br /><br />As for more personal details - We really enjoyed our free time and just being together. The boys did what boys do - they STAYED dirty! LOL (Of course that means that I also conquered mountains and mountains of laundry, but don't feel too sorry for me, I make them help a LOT!) <img src="http://tinypic.com/ip0b3l.gif" alt="Image hosted by TinyPic.com"><br /><br />HMMMM... right in the middle of my typing up this post this morning the hubby got up and started getting ready to get out for the day. (Little things like THIS are what keep me from posting.. HA! That's NOT a complaint, there is NOTHING I'd rather do than take care of my family.. I'm just sayin'.. that's all) <img src="http://tinypic.com/ip0cif.jpg" alt="Image hosted by TinyPic.com"> <br /><br />So <em><strong>NOW</strong></em> it's mid-afternoon instead of morning.. I'll TRY to pick up and keep going.. <br /><br />Okay, this will likely be THE MOST scatterbrained post I've done yet, but I'm DETERMINED to get SOMETHING up TODAY! Oh, speaking of.. the "two" that I mentioned earlier are not going to happen. I'll post tomorrow with the deets on my hobby. (Just a hint.. it's COUPONING! I've TOTALLY FLIPPED OUT over this new way to shop!)<br /><br />Before I go, I want to let you in on something I found out this morning. The lady that did my blog makeover is having a <a href="http://designgirlblog.blogspot.com/">giveaway</a> for her birthday. (It's TODAY) She'll be giving away a bloggy makeover for some BLESSED person that enters TODAY! Hop on over and wish her a happy birthday if you'd like and be sure to get YOUR name in the hat! (Click the link just above or the graphic below)<br /><br /><center> <a href="http://thedesigngirlstudio.blogspot.com/"> <img src="http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z104/danielle982/birthdaybutton-1.png"/> </a></center> <br /><br /><br />I'll HOPEFULLY check back first thing in the morning! (Oh, and THANKS SOOOOO MUCH for the sweet nudges to get back out here and start blogging again - YOU are some of my very BESTEST friends, and I ♥ YOU VERY MUCH) <br /><br /><img src="http://tinypic.com/ajow8n.gif" alt="Image hosted by TinyPic.com">Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-10076107501591199642009-06-23T06:38:00.000-05:002009-06-23T06:39:29.661-05:00a COOL "freebie" and a videoI still find myself having a hard time finding things to write about. I'll have these random posting ideas, but not sure if there's enough to be said so it feels like my wheels are spinning and yet I'm going nowhere. LOL.. <br /><br />With that said, I'll keep it "light" today by sharing something neat I found on a friend's blog, and then a video that I "borrowed" from my friend <a href="http://lisashawshares.blogspot.com/">Lisa</a>. <br /><br />So the freebie is this: Brent Riggs over at ...<a href="http://www.riggsfamilyblog.com/2009/06/new-reliable-linky-system-free.html">where laughter lives: The Riggs Family Blog</a>, has created a "linky" system that's FREE for the public to use. There is a more well known one, but I hear it's not completely reliable. Anyway, Brent has been using this on the family blog for months and he says it works beautifully. <br /><br />Now, on to the video...<br /><br />This is the description of the video on facebook, "Taking their inspiration the Afro-American church music, the Heritage Mass Choir presents original Korean Gospel music". I've heard Kirk Franklin sing this song, and found it listed as "My Desire".<br /><br />The video is AWESOME! (I'll post the lyrics just below)<br /><br /><center><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kvRO_D5eUOE&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kvRO_D5eUOE&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></center><br /><br /><br /><br />My desire to please you, to be more and more like you Jesus. Each and everyday, <br />I lift my hands and say , I want to be more like you. (Repeat)<br />I give you my life, take me in your arms and hold me Jesus. I give you my <br />heart,I know that you can mend these broken pieces.<br />I'm totally, I'm totally, Totally committed to you.<br /><br />Repeat chorus<br />I give you my life , take me in your arms and hold me Jesus. I give you my <br />heart , I know that you can mend these broken pieces.<br />I give you my life,<br />My heart,<br />My soul,<br />Take control.<br /><br />I love you 4x the whole choir<br />Sopranos (4x I love you)<br />Altos (4x I love you)<br />I love you 4x the whole choir<br />I'm totally (5x)<br />One more time I'm totally , Totally committed to you<br /><br /><br />Kirk Franklin My Desire lyrics<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Alrighty, my friends, I think I'll go now. Whoops.. I almost forgot to tell you THANKS for the Father's Day wishes for Link. I read him each one (from my cell).. he's not a man of many words, but he DID smile.. ☺ I know he REALLY APPRECIATED it! Again, THANK YOU! ☺Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com67tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-32882995190561877232009-06-21T07:01:00.003-05:002009-06-21T07:16:22.080-05:00Happy Father's Day<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Sj4kW_11mtI/AAAAAAAACXU/9lvVQk7nuFQ/s1600-h/fathers_day_graphics_09.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Sj4kW_11mtI/AAAAAAAACXU/9lvVQk7nuFQ/s320/fathers_day_graphics_09.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349753384875694802" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Hello, Friends!<br /><br />I know it's been FOREEEEVVVEEERRR since I've last posted. I'm just FULL of excuses as usual.. LOL! The best one I can offer is that it seems the more behind I become, the less likely I am to want to tackle what I have to do. (Well, that applies in most cases...hehe) <br /><br />ANYWAY.. I thought today was as good as any to come back to blogland. I mean, a day that's set aside to honor our own dads, the father of our children, and most importantly, our HEAVENLY FATHER. <br /><br />So, with that said, I just want to say "Happy Father's Day" to Link, my Daddy, Link's Daddy and to all the other Dads out there. (As if any of the men listed are actually READING my blog.. ha!!!!!!!!!!!!)<br /><br />Now, I'm going to go help the boys find stuff to make Link's card. After we lost Brent we've discovered how TREASURED ANYTHING that their little hands make, becomes to us. <br /><br />I hope you all have a GREAT day celebrating the Dads in your lives - whether they be with us here on earth, or celebrating their new lives with the GREATEST Father of all time.. Our LORD, our GOD, our Heavenly Father!<br /><br />I LOVE You all,Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-61669133906625356892009-05-30T20:38:00.002-05:002009-05-30T20:46:36.918-05:00are women born this way?Now, I hope this won't offend anyone. I personally thought it was HILARIOUS! (My hubby used to tell me that I talked so much during the day that my <em>lips</em> should <strong>SMOKE</strong> when I went to bed at night) <img src="http://tinypic.com/kafm9c.gif" alt="Image hosting by TinyPic"><br /><br />I can STILL hold my own.. HA!!! <br /><br />Anyway, this video was emailed to me by a friend and it gave me a good laugh. It's titled "Are women born this way?" and then just below the video it says, "Apparently so".<br /><br />I hope you enjoy it too. <img alt="Image hosted by TinyPic.com" src="http://tinypic.com/aerwup.gif" /><br /><br /><br /><center><iframe src="http://www.snotr.com/embed/2630" frameborder="0" width="400" height="330"></iframe><br /></center>Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-51662836668686629832009-05-30T00:06:00.001-05:002009-05-30T00:06:00.579-05:00are you ready???Hello, Friends!<br /><br />A sweet friend of mine sent me this video and of course I immediately wanted to share it with you. I had seen part of the video at a different time, but never like this. It's definitely something to make one think. ☺<br /><br /><center><embed src="http://www.tangle.com/flash/swf/flvplayer.swf" FlashVars="viewkey=a7cb6f39621669c2a4b2" wmode="transparent" quality="high" width="330" height="270" name="tangle" align="middle" allowScriptAccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" /></embed></center><br /><br /><br />Oh, before I leave, there is something VERY DISTURBING going on in California right now. If you've not already heard, I invite you to read about it in the post below. THANKS! ☺<br /><br />Have a BLESSED weekend!<br />Love,Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-65241985217297214812009-05-28T23:10:00.009-05:002009-05-29T05:46:04.977-05:00This is SCARY!! Seriously.Hello, Friends..<br /><br />It's been a while since I've done a "real" post here as I tend to take the easy way out and post videos/email when I'm short on time. Well, tonight I'm sharing an email that came from a VERY RELIABLE SOURCE. (It's NOT a forward) If you want to read the article for yourself online click <a href="http://www.10news.com/news/19562217/detail.html"><strong><span style="color:#6600cc;">HERE</span></strong></a>.<br /><br />To say that I was BLOWN AWAY by this story is an understatement. Whether one claims to be a person of faith, or none at all, we should still have the right to meet with anyone we choose in our own homes as long as what we're doing isn't illegal. (The family that's being persecuted is CLEARLY being attacked because they are Christians)<br /><br /><br />I could go on all day about this, but instead I'm going to share the email and invite you to sign a petition at the end. Here goes...<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="color:#6600cc;"><em>"A San Diego pastor and his wife</em> </span><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">have been told they cannot have a Bible study in their home. The couple says they were interrogated by a San Diego County official, then threatened with ever increasing fines if they refuse to stop the Bible study. (<a href="http://www.10news.com/news/19562217/detail.html"><strong>See news article here</strong></a>)<br /><br />According to the couple's attorney, they were questioned about the Bible study. "'Do you have a regular meeting in your home?" The pastor's wife replied, "Yes." "Do you say 'amen'?" the official asked. "Yes," she replied. "Do you pray?" Again she said, "Yes." "Do you say 'praise the Lord'?" Another "Yes." The official told the pastor and his wife they were in violation of county rules.<br /><br />The Bible study usually has an average of about 15 people.<br /><br />A few days later they got a written warning that listed the home Bible study an "unlawful use of land." They were notified to "stop religious assembly or apply for a major use permit," which could cost them thousands of dollars.<br /></span></em></span><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="color:#6600cc;"><em>Could a small poetry club meet regularly in a home? Apparently, yes. What about a Cub Scout meeting? Evidently, yes. What if they meet regularly to watch Monday Night Football? Obviously, yes."</em><br /></span></span><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://secure.afa.net/afa/activism/signpetition.asp?id=1850"><strong><span style="color:#cc0000;">Click HERE to sign the petition</span></strong></a> <em><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#6600cc;">supporting the couple's right to hold the small Bible study in their home. The petition will go to the San Diego Board of Supervisors.<br /><br /></span></em><br />(Email sent by afr.net and they did request it be passed along to everyone in our address book)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Seriously. They whole issue here is Christianity. It's obvious with questions like.....<br /><br /><br />"Do you say 'amen'?"<br /><br />"Do you pray?"<br /><br />"Do you say 'praise the Lord'?"<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Please feel free to copy this and forward it to your friends... and/or post it to your blogs/sites.<br /><br /><br />Thanks for your time..<br />Love,Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-16391091696653033422009-05-25T10:12:00.000-05:002009-05-25T10:16:40.082-05:00Happy Memorial Day<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Shq2BSybA7I/AAAAAAAACXI/vSdhrsKV5DY/s1600-h/The+price+of+freedom.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 284px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Shq2BSybA7I/AAAAAAAACXI/vSdhrsKV5DY/s400/The+price+of+freedom.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339780441540592562" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Shq2A54FjnI/AAAAAAAACW8/5nP0IjxUenE/s1600-h/REAL+American+Idol.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Shq2A54FjnI/AAAAAAAACW8/5nP0IjxUenE/s400/REAL+American+Idol.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339780434853465714" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Shq2AgYKLwI/AAAAAAAACWw/uyHG0ZfG_-o/s1600-h/Memorial+DAY+2.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 275px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Shq2AgYKLwI/AAAAAAAACWw/uyHG0ZfG_-o/s400/Memorial+DAY+2.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339780428008664834" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Shq2AbXTsSI/AAAAAAAACWk/KbXhGB8D1o8/s1600-h/Memorial+Day.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Shq2AbXTsSI/AAAAAAAACWk/KbXhGB8D1o8/s400/Memorial+Day.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339780426662916386" /></a>Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-55924022109645333852009-05-21T21:47:00.002-05:002009-05-21T21:52:28.763-05:00this is TOOOOO FUNNY!Hello, Friends!<br /><br />I was doing a little blog hopping tonight and one thing led to another and before I knew it I had stumbled upon this video...<br /><br /><center><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ERpIWTh18cY&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ERpIWTh18cY&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></center><br /><br />Seriously. Was that not one of the CUTEST things you've seen in a while??? <br /><br />Zach keeps going from wanting a pet snake to wanting a bird (he REALLY wants a parrot).. this video DIDN'T HELP. <img src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mh9a11.gif" alt="Image hosting by TinyPic"> HeeheeTonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-14636318366088244222009-05-20T10:33:00.007-05:002009-05-20T11:18:28.909-05:00random pics and a blog award..Hello, Friends!<br /><br />I'm FINALLY updating my blog with actual family photos. I enjoy capturing fun memories, but then seldom get them uploaded. (I SO NEED to get MOTIVATED)<br /><br />Anyway, the first pics I'll share with you are of the boys *new* clubhouse. See, the boys have been asking Link FOR-EEEVVV-ER for some sort of tree house, fort, whatever. Well, Link's dad found this 30-something year old camper and it made for a MUCH CHEAPER clubhouse than we could've built. Here, I'll let you see for yourself. LOL!!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQlWc0mnaI/AAAAAAAACVk/0ZTXOF0DdJY/s1600-h/Spring,+Summer+Fun+002.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337932525965057442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQlWc0mnaI/AAAAAAAACVk/0ZTXOF0DdJY/s320/Spring,+Summer+Fun+002.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />The REALLY FUNNY thing about their new ride is that they protect it as if it were made of GOLD or something. Check out this picture.. notice their BOOTS <strong><em>OUTSIDE</em></strong> the camper????? They don't even do that when they come in our HOUSE!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQlWjKvziI/AAAAAAAACVs/Ju36kEOZtTA/s1600-h/Spring,+Summer+Fun+003.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337932527668547106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQlWjKvziI/AAAAAAAACVs/Ju36kEOZtTA/s320/Spring,+Summer+Fun+003.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Here's a shot of Gabe lounging in the top sleeper..<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQlW-T3GdI/AAAAAAAACV0/Tg16LAOO69Q/s1600-h/Spring,+Summer+Fun+004.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337932534954531282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQlW-T3GdI/AAAAAAAACV0/Tg16LAOO69Q/s320/Spring,+Summer+Fun+004.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />this one was made from inside the camper..<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQoPQWVitI/AAAAAAAACWE/WEqZVEDy6KA/s1600-h/Spring,+Summer+Fun+009.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337935700892682962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQoPQWVitI/AAAAAAAACWE/WEqZVEDy6KA/s320/Spring,+Summer+Fun+009.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />and here's Zach....<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQoPUa0T1I/AAAAAAAACV8/t-UXazXhbx4/s1600-h/Spring,+Summer+Fun+007.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337935701985218386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQoPUa0T1I/AAAAAAAACV8/t-UXazXhbx4/s320/Spring,+Summer+Fun+007.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />These next shots were taken yesterday just after the pool people had pulled out the liner. The boys couldn't WAIT to get in there and check it out!<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQqXPPVKKI/AAAAAAAACWU/MRc8b5CnDnU/s1600-h/Spring,+Summer+Fun+068.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337938037057071266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQqXPPVKKI/AAAAAAAACWU/MRc8b5CnDnU/s320/Spring,+Summer+Fun+068.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQqWnUQPoI/AAAAAAAACWM/laBqdhPim3g/s1600-h/Spring,+Summer+Fun+066.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337938026340302466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQqWnUQPoI/AAAAAAAACWM/laBqdhPim3g/s320/Spring,+Summer+Fun+066.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Now how's THIS for GROSS???? This DISGUSTING water is coming STRAIGHT from our pipes! My hubby called the folks that are over our water system last night. They'll be out today to get water samples. We were MORTIFIED! Granted, the water may look like this out of ANY water system when you're seeing this much in one place, but we're not used to seeing it.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQqXRPHGmI/AAAAAAAACWc/ANdi80zGhaM/s1600-h/Spring,+Summer+Fun+074.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337938037593021026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQqXRPHGmI/AAAAAAAACWc/ANdi80zGhaM/s320/Spring,+Summer+Fun+074.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Oh yeah, and before I go.. I wanted to share that I was honored with this blog award </div><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQjwl2FBPI/AAAAAAAACVc/Wj0rIlzo0tE/s1600-h/blog_award_from_southern_girl_.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337930776040506610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/ShQjwl2FBPI/AAAAAAAACVc/Wj0rIlzo0tE/s200/blog_award_from_southern_girl_.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>from my new friend Sarah (<a href="http://www.godsnotfinishedwithusyet.com/"><span style="color:#333399;"><strong>God's Not Finished With Us Yet</strong></span></a>)</div>THANKS SO MUCH, Sarah! You are TOO SWEET! Now, I ALWAYS cheat and NEVER name anyone specifically for the awards I get. I just CANNOT make myself choose <strong><em>just</em></strong> a handful of people. (I'm wimpy like that) I hope you'll forgive me??? <img alt="Image hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mhafxh.jpg" /><br /><br />Until next time...<br />Love,Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-85464045289282127732009-05-19T15:01:00.002-05:002009-05-19T15:09:36.389-05:00stationary giveaway!Hello, Friends!<br /><br />This will be another VERY SHORT post.. today has been another day FULL of all sorts of things. (Our pool liner finally gave way so we had to replace it.. the folks we bought the pool from have been down today taking the old one out and putting the new one in.. I'll post pics of that tomorrow, hopefully)<br /><br />Anyway.. when I stopped in at Danielle's Blog today I found out that she's having a stationary giveaway.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href="http://thedesigngirlstudio.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z104/danielle982/button3-4.png" /> </a></center><br /><br />(She designs these herself.. this lady is T-A-L-E-N-T-E-D!!!) If you'd like to enter her giveaway click <a href="http://designgirlblog.blogspot.com/2009/05/my-first-stationery-giveaway.html"><span style="color:#333399;"><strong>HERE</strong></span></a>.<br /><br /><br />Okay.. I'd better RUN! I just didn't want any of you to miss out! <strong><span style="font-size:180%;">☺</span></strong> (It's COMPLETELY FREE to enter.. you get extra entries for blogging and doing twitter posts.. other than that, no strings attached!)<br /><br />Have a BLESSED DAY!<br /><br />I ♥ YOU!Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-22365501458543784832009-05-18T09:26:00.002-05:002009-05-18T09:31:36.961-05:00clay balls...Hello, Sweet Friends!<br /><br />I don't have much time this morning to chat, but I wanted to share an email with you so I'm doing that instead of the normal rambling. HA!!!<br /><br />So here it is.... (and I wish each of you a WONDERFUL week!) <span style="font-size:180%;">☺</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center">"Clay Balls"<br /><br />A man was exploring caves by the Seashore. In one of the caves he found a<br />canvas bag with a bunch of hardened clay balls. It was like someone had rolled<br />clay balls and left them out in the sun to bake. They didn't look like much,<br />but they intrigued the man, so he took the bag out of the cave with him. As he<br />strolled along the beach, he would throw the clay balls one at a time out into<br />the ocean as far as he could.<br /><br />He thought little about it, until he dropped one of the clay balls and it<br />cracked open on a rock . Inside was a beautiful, precious stone!<br /><br />Excited, the man started breaking open the remaining clay balls. Each contained<br />a similar treasure. He found thousands of dollars worth of jewels in the 20 or<br />so clay balls he had left.<br /><br />Then it struck him. He had been on the beach a long time. He had thrown maybe<br />50 or 60 of the clay balls with their hidden treasure into the ocean waves.<br />Instead of thousands of dollars in treasure, he could have taken home tens of<br />thousands, but he had just thrown it away!<br /><br />It's like that with people. We look at someone, maybe even ourselves, and we<br />see the external clay vessel. It doesn't look like much from the outside. It<br />isn't always beautiful or sparkling, so we discount it.<br /><br />We see that person as less important than someone more beautiful or stylish or<br />well known or wealthy. But we have not taken the time to find the treasure<br />hidden inside that person..<br /><br />There is a treasure in each and every one of us. If we take the time to get to<br />know that person, and if we ask God to show us that person the way He sees them,<br />then the clay begins to peel away and the brilliant gem begins to shine forth.<br /><br />May we not come to the end of our lives and find out that we have thrown away a<br />fortune in friendships because the gems were hidden in bits of clay. May we see<br />the people in our world as God sees them.<br /><br />I am so blessed by the gems of friendship I have with you. Thank you for<br />looking beyond my clay vessel. </div><div align="center"> </div>Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-6328543951748596212009-05-15T08:03:00.005-05:002009-05-15T08:40:43.786-05:00and the WINNER is...Hello, Sweet Friends!<br /><br />I'm running LATE this morning posting the winner of this book...<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Sg1ozVIIvZI/AAAAAAAACVE/vJiTnTIh65o/s1600-h/Love+and+Respect.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Sg1ozVIIvZI/AAAAAAAACVE/vJiTnTIh65o/s320/Love+and+Respect.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336036364557794706" /></a><br /><br />SOOOOOOOOOO... the winner IS..... Jennifer at <a href="http://foreveraserna.blogspot.com/">Life with MY three guys</a>. I'm heading over to Jennifer's in just a sec to tell her that she won. Thanks SO MUCH to those of you who entered! I'll be giving away this book in the next week or so...<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Sg1pxeLTSrI/AAAAAAAACVM/EjjL6BQ9hOw/s1600-h/The+Deen+Family+Cookbook.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 254px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Sg1pxeLTSrI/AAAAAAAACVM/EjjL6BQ9hOw/s320/The+Deen+Family+Cookbook.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336037432138877618" /></a><br /><br />Before I sign off, my SWEET FRIEND, Martha, (<a href="http://flyawaybirdie.blogspot.com/">Fly Away Birdie</a>) has honored me with an award. (THANKS, Martha!) <br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Sg1ri_dasRI/AAAAAAAACVU/DwIi9oCq4YE/s1600-h/super_blog.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 169px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtPZsVTDKhY/Sg1ri_dasRI/AAAAAAAACVU/DwIi9oCq4YE/s200/super_blog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336039382398447890" /></a><br /><br />Martha is just AWESOME! We met through the comment section on another blog, but I was DRAWN to her because of her LOVE for the LORD and the way she takes a stand on ALL that is RIGHT. (She doesn't back down from putting the WORD out there just as is it.. no watering it down with her - love her..<em><strong> LOVE HER</strong></em>!)<br /><br />Oh, to fill you in quickly on what we've been doing the past week...<br /><br />We hosted church in our home on Sunday. I was SO THANKFUL that it was our turn because the busyness of cleaning up around our place in preparation kept my thoughts on positive and happy things. Yes, I thought of Brent and MISSED him like crazy, but it didn't seem to be any worse than any other day. (PRAISE BE THE LORD!! Sometimes 'holidays' can just be too much) We had dinner with my parents and then visited Link's later that evening. The whole day was GREAT! <br /><br />Oh, I can't believe I almost forgot to mention this.. my little guys greeted me Sunday morning with homemade Mother's Day cards and personalized jewelry. I got a silver necklace with a 'family tree' pendant. It's really cute.. there's a tree of sorts in the middle and all of our names are engraved around the top of the pendant. I LOVE to have (and to be able to wear) things with all THREE of my boys' names. <br /><br />Of course Monday was back to school then we cleaned the basement. (Now THAT would be a BEFORE & AFTER pic! HA!!!) Most of the toys are down there and Mr. Gabe had it STREWN EVERYWHERE! It was an all day job in itself.. YIKES! (I can't believe I just admitted that online.. hehee.. oh well, it's best to be REAL isn't it?) <img src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mh9a11.gif" alt="Image hosting by TinyPic"><br /><br />OOHHH.. I also did a PartyLite party. My friend Lindy is selling it. (Lindy is Carter's Mom.. his button is on my sidebar) Man, I wish we were all next door neighbors.. I'd have LOVED to have had you all over! (WE SO NEED to have a giant blog party somewhere in the central US) <br /><br />I think there's been SOMETHING going on with us all week. <img src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mhafxh.jpg" alt="Image hosting by TinyPic"> Anyway.. those are my excuses for not being online as much. I just feel terribly guilty that some of you leave comments so often and at times I'm such the SLACKER! With summer around the corner I HOPE to be a better friend to you all! YOU guys are such AWESOME ENCOURAGERS and I'd like to be that for you as well. <img src="http://i1.tinypic.com/mh9kjp.gif" alt="Image hosting by TinyPic"><br /><br />Okay.. I have rambled ENOUGH for one day! I hope all is well with each and every one of you... I also hope you have an AMAZING weekend!<br /><br />LOVE,Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7168613870048508403.post-49992195115387071482009-05-13T00:13:00.001-05:002009-05-13T00:13:01.094-05:00formula for babies in China.. another giveawayHello, Friends!<br /><br />I wanted to invited you over to <a href="http://designgirlblog.blogspot.com/2009/05/blog-makeover-raffle-for-new-day-foster.html">The Design Girl</a>'s blog to register for her giveaway. She's doing a raffle for the New Day Foster Home's formula project. (This is an organization that helps provide formula for orphanages in China) Please, if you have a minute go over and read about it on Danielle's blog. (Danielle <em><u>IS</u></em> "<a href="http://designgirlblog.blogspot.com/2009/05/blog-makeover-raffle-for-new-day-foster.html">The Design Girl"</a>)<br /><br />I copied this from her blog...<br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;">"To help the formula project, I will raffle off a deluxe blog makeover ($105 value).<br />Raffle tickets are being sold for the following prices.<br /><br />1 ticket - $5<br />3 tickets - $10<br /><br />If you sign up to sponsor formula for a child for one year (the sponsorship is $25 per month), I will give you 5 extra tickets. Do not use the chipin to become a sponsor. You can register here."<br /></span><br /><br /><br />Anyway, the blog makeover (should you be the winner) is valued at <strong><em>$105</em></strong>!! This is the VERY TALENTED lady that did my blog makeover!!<br /><br /> <center> <a href="http://thedesigngirlstudio.com/"> <img src="http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z104/danielle982/button.png"/> </a></center> <br /><br />Okay.. so if you wanna... go.. check it out!<br /><br /><br />Also, I posted just below about a giveaway that I'll have Friday. You can read up on it there or just click <a href="http://nason5.blogspot.com/2009/04/quick-update.html">HERE</a> to enter! <br /><br />Have a BLESSED day, Precious Friends!<br />Love,Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04061703881519814172noreply@blogger.com9