Monday, October 8, 2012
Thursday, October 4, 2012
10 Years
10 years ago today my sweet Papa died. I absolutely adored this man and always felt a sense of calmness and comfort just being in his presence. He was very protective of us gals...never thought any of the boys we used to bring around were ever worth our time (and he would say so - ha). Which is why I experienced a sense of sadness knowing he'd never be able to see I actually finally met one that was worth my time and so much more.
He would have adored Jason as his own, no doubt.
He died before my younger sister and I married...and obviously before we had kids. It was a sudden death - he wasn't even really sick, but I suddenly got a call in California that I needed to fly home. I didn't make it in time, which Amy woul later tell me was a blessing. At that time, it was the worst day of my life.
That day has since been replaced.
But it got me thinking the other day...Papa finally got to meet his first great grandchild. I can see him now with Tucker - telling him all the same silly stories he used to tell us, letting Tucker rest his head on his big belly...I wonder how that meeting went.
He would have adored Jason as his own, no doubt.
He died before my younger sister and I married...and obviously before we had kids. It was a sudden death - he wasn't even really sick, but I suddenly got a call in California that I needed to fly home. I didn't make it in time, which Amy woul later tell me was a blessing. At that time, it was the worst day of my life.
That day has since been replaced.
But it got me thinking the other day...Papa finally got to meet his first great grandchild. I can see him now with Tucker - telling him all the same silly stories he used to tell us, letting Tucker rest his head on his big belly...I wonder how that meeting went.
Good Stewards
As Christians, we're told to be good stewards of the resources we are given...obviously money is the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of resources.
But what does that mean?? I ask that literally...seriously - please reply you answer. :)
I've been in knots with this concept over the years and and it seems the more I delve into Scripture, I find them contradicting each other. We're told to "save" multiple times in Proverbs (21:20; 6:6-8, to name a few), but then in Matthew, Jesus tells us to "not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal" (6:19-20).
So I guess my question is, where's the balance? I know our society tells us to "save,save,save" but it also screams to chase after:
1. making more money
2. building bigger houses
3. driving nicer cars
4. taking elaborate vacations
5. retiring nicely
And then once we attain those things, supposedly we have the American Dream.
But what freedom to let go of those things...to literally pray, "God - where do you want us? What do you want us to be doing?" After all, He created us with a purpose in mind.
The things promised for us in Heaven far outweigh what we can achieve here on earth. I was just discussing this with someone the other day, how our mansions are currently being created by the Father Himself...how unreal to one day soon see it for the first time and know it was tailor designed by the Maker.
Doesn't that just bring JOY?!
So I guess when Jason and I have discussed the notion of "saving" through this lens, also knowing that we're not promised tomorrow, and that God has work that needs to be accomplished now, it just seems silly to us to save sometimes?
Our inheritance is already in Heaven, so saving for retirement seems odd because, well, retirement on earth seems odd...saving for our kids to go to college even seems odd because what if God has different plans for them, and that money could be better spent now?
I guess my point is, if we save, it implies we think we're going to be around for a long time...as if we know. Now I do think saving to buy a car, for instance, so you can pay in cash and owe nothing is a whole different story. But saving for these arbitrary, years down the road things is what has me puzzled. And I'm not saying I'm right by any means, either with this thinking...it just all has me thinking.
I listened to a sermon once by my old pastor from California where he talked about how to be wise with making money. He was speaking to a fairly wealthy population in Orange County, and challenged them to be shrewd in making money - to get good at it. And then give it all away. Make more to give more. He talked about how we often make more to live more lavishly, and challenged us with what it might look like if the good money-makers only lived off what they needed (which I understand is relative - sometimes I think my house is small, but in the grand scheme of it, I know it's even more than I need).
Anyway, the best question I've been able to ask myself that brings the most clarity on this subject is, "Does what I'm about to spend further the Kingdom, or does it further me?" I fail at this question constantly. But it's a good check for me.
Anyway, this post is jumbled and might not even make a lot of sense but thought I'd throw this out here. Would love your conclusions/thoughts n these issues!
But what does that mean?? I ask that literally...seriously - please reply you answer. :)
I've been in knots with this concept over the years and and it seems the more I delve into Scripture, I find them contradicting each other. We're told to "save" multiple times in Proverbs (21:20; 6:6-8, to name a few), but then in Matthew, Jesus tells us to "not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal" (6:19-20).
So I guess my question is, where's the balance? I know our society tells us to "save,save,save" but it also screams to chase after:
1. making more money
2. building bigger houses
3. driving nicer cars
4. taking elaborate vacations
5. retiring nicely
And then once we attain those things, supposedly we have the American Dream.
But what freedom to let go of those things...to literally pray, "God - where do you want us? What do you want us to be doing?" After all, He created us with a purpose in mind.
The things promised for us in Heaven far outweigh what we can achieve here on earth. I was just discussing this with someone the other day, how our mansions are currently being created by the Father Himself...how unreal to one day soon see it for the first time and know it was tailor designed by the Maker.
Doesn't that just bring JOY?!
So I guess when Jason and I have discussed the notion of "saving" through this lens, also knowing that we're not promised tomorrow, and that God has work that needs to be accomplished now, it just seems silly to us to save sometimes?
Our inheritance is already in Heaven, so saving for retirement seems odd because, well, retirement on earth seems odd...saving for our kids to go to college even seems odd because what if God has different plans for them, and that money could be better spent now?
I guess my point is, if we save, it implies we think we're going to be around for a long time...as if we know. Now I do think saving to buy a car, for instance, so you can pay in cash and owe nothing is a whole different story. But saving for these arbitrary, years down the road things is what has me puzzled. And I'm not saying I'm right by any means, either with this thinking...it just all has me thinking.
I listened to a sermon once by my old pastor from California where he talked about how to be wise with making money. He was speaking to a fairly wealthy population in Orange County, and challenged them to be shrewd in making money - to get good at it. And then give it all away. Make more to give more. He talked about how we often make more to live more lavishly, and challenged us with what it might look like if the good money-makers only lived off what they needed (which I understand is relative - sometimes I think my house is small, but in the grand scheme of it, I know it's even more than I need).
Anyway, the best question I've been able to ask myself that brings the most clarity on this subject is, "Does what I'm about to spend further the Kingdom, or does it further me?" I fail at this question constantly. But it's a good check for me.
Anyway, this post is jumbled and might not even make a lot of sense but thought I'd throw this out here. Would love your conclusions/thoughts n these issues!
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Let's Get Busy
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”
Romans 10:9-15
Friday, September 28, 2012
Grocery Budget
Okay, so I've had a lot of people asking me recently how we actually do this whole budget thing and how we were able to turn our financial situation around so fast.
I know some might be seriously? she's talking about her finances on here?? and if that's crazy weird and crossing a line for you, no problem (and you may be right). :)
But for those that have asked and might find some useful tips, this one's for you.
And my HUGE disclaimer: I constantly revamp the way we do this stuff and seem to continue finding ways to cut corners and save. We have never been taught a method, just apply common sense as best we know it. SO - please share the things that work for you, as well, and maybe we can pool all our ideas and walk away with better plans for everyone involved! I LOVE input in this area of how I can make it work even better, so please share!
That's a huge reason for writing this post, because I know there are others like me who eat this stuff up. :)
We are on a budget. No doubt. It recycles every 2 weeks (coinciding with paychecks). Of all the budgeted areas, the grocery part is the absolute hardest one for me to contain. I bust it almost every month. When I realized this, I finally upped it $100, but guess what? I now surpass that (which is currently, now a whopping $700/mo).
Epic fail.
But last month, after my first Aldi's trip and some tips I ran across, I started scheming and had the idea that I could REDUCE it by about $250-$300 dollars. WHAT?! 6 months ago I was needing to "up" it...and now I think I can reduce it. Yes, I got motivated.
BTW, saving money is the only area in my life I am competitive. True story.
And our "grocery" budget is everything...anything you buy at Walmart/Target/Sam's is included in this. Which for me, also includes diapers, formula, dog food, cleaning/laundry stuff.
Here's another true story - I think I am actually going to be able to do it this month. Here's some tips of how this is working for me:
1. I take out $200 in cash on the 1st and the 15th.
2. I meal plan for 2 weeks straight and buy everything at once for the 2 weeks. I usually have to go back for more milk and some produce that is only good for a week at a time. And we eat leftovers. :)
3. I make a massive list before I go, getting all ingredients from recipes and such that I will need.
4. I go to Aldi's first. I am able to get about 90% of what I need from there.
****A little about Aldis (and I'm a newbie, so tips here are more than welcomed):
- EVERYTHING is cheaper than GV. (I've tested it all with calculator and receipts)
*The only exception for me has been honey. Walmart has one that is cheaper.
- Even diapers and wipes are a better deal (though pkg is smaller)
- Frozen chicken is cheaper and just as good
- Just bought 3lb frozen hamburger meat for first time. I will tell you if it's good
- Produce is bad, but CHEAP. Take pics of prices, and walmart will pricematch.
- Bread is like cardboard. Buy that one elsewhere. :)
5. Next, I hit up Walmart for the remainder of things Aldi's didn't have:
- Dogfood, formula, roast (for this week), produce, shampoo
6. We run our pantry DRY. Literally. We only buy what we need and eat it gone before the next grocery run.
NOW, I did my 2 week run yesterday (I did it early this time), and here's the totals:
*It used to cost me a little over $300 for 2 weeks when I was just shopping at Walmart.
But yesterday,
Aldi's bill: $110 (that included diapers for next 2 weeks)
Walmart: $60 (that included formula for 1.5 weeks...which is $20 a pop)
I will still need to buy one more can of formula before the end, and some milk/produce that we will run out of next week. But all meals (including dogs' meals) are accounted for until we re-start the cycle.
So what's on the menu??? (I also have all of these recipes typed up if anyone wants them):
Weekend: Tacos (I make this Saturday and then we eat on them for Sunday, too).
M/T: Bacony Chicken & Rice/Salad
W/T: Beef Enchiladas/Chips &Salsa
F: Grilled Chicken/Baked Potatoes/Veg
S/S: Poppyseed Chicken/Green Beans/Rolls
M/T: Roast/Potatoes/Carrots/Mac & Cheese
W/R: Chicken Spaghetti/Veg
F/Sun: Hamburgers
(We will have dinner with Jason's family Sat).
Something else new I am trying this week, is I bought a huge frozen pkg. of ground beef that was a lot cheaper, and am about to cook it up how I need it in the recipes for the week, and then freeze the portions to pull out on that particular day. We will see how that goes.
So there you have it. I would LOVE to hear additional tips from you guys!!!
And also, just a side note - when it comes to finances, my absolute biggest tip I tell everyone is NEVER NEGLECT TO TITHE.
I never tithed one time until my second year of marriage when we got serious about this stuff. We prayed on an amount that was sacrificial for us, and have it withdrawn first thing every month. When we changed churches, we didn't tithe all summer and yall our budget when nutso-crazy. No joke. And it didn't make sense because we should have had EXTRA money and for the first time in 2 years we were seeing RED. It was the weirdest thing. But we realized we had stopped tithing, repented (Seriously, on our bed...together) and haven't made that mistake again. The first step in getting finances right is recognizing who is Lord over your money and demonstrating obedience in this area. As a former none-thither, I am now a FIRM FIRM believer in this. God will not bestow blessings on your finances if you do not surrender them to Him. I am a witness. :)
I could share tons on this subject alone that we have learned, but I'll stop there for now.
Blessings!!!! :)
I know some might be seriously? she's talking about her finances on here?? and if that's crazy weird and crossing a line for you, no problem (and you may be right). :)
But for those that have asked and might find some useful tips, this one's for you.
And my HUGE disclaimer: I constantly revamp the way we do this stuff and seem to continue finding ways to cut corners and save. We have never been taught a method, just apply common sense as best we know it. SO - please share the things that work for you, as well, and maybe we can pool all our ideas and walk away with better plans for everyone involved! I LOVE input in this area of how I can make it work even better, so please share!
That's a huge reason for writing this post, because I know there are others like me who eat this stuff up. :)
We are on a budget. No doubt. It recycles every 2 weeks (coinciding with paychecks). Of all the budgeted areas, the grocery part is the absolute hardest one for me to contain. I bust it almost every month. When I realized this, I finally upped it $100, but guess what? I now surpass that (which is currently, now a whopping $700/mo).
Epic fail.
But last month, after my first Aldi's trip and some tips I ran across, I started scheming and had the idea that I could REDUCE it by about $250-$300 dollars. WHAT?! 6 months ago I was needing to "up" it...and now I think I can reduce it. Yes, I got motivated.
BTW, saving money is the only area in my life I am competitive. True story.
And our "grocery" budget is everything...anything you buy at Walmart/Target/Sam's is included in this. Which for me, also includes diapers, formula, dog food, cleaning/laundry stuff.
Here's another true story - I think I am actually going to be able to do it this month. Here's some tips of how this is working for me:
1. I take out $200 in cash on the 1st and the 15th.
2. I meal plan for 2 weeks straight and buy everything at once for the 2 weeks. I usually have to go back for more milk and some produce that is only good for a week at a time. And we eat leftovers. :)
3. I make a massive list before I go, getting all ingredients from recipes and such that I will need.
4. I go to Aldi's first. I am able to get about 90% of what I need from there.
****A little about Aldis (and I'm a newbie, so tips here are more than welcomed):
- EVERYTHING is cheaper than GV. (I've tested it all with calculator and receipts)
*The only exception for me has been honey. Walmart has one that is cheaper.
- Even diapers and wipes are a better deal (though pkg is smaller)
- Frozen chicken is cheaper and just as good
- Just bought 3lb frozen hamburger meat for first time. I will tell you if it's good
- Produce is bad, but CHEAP. Take pics of prices, and walmart will pricematch.
- Bread is like cardboard. Buy that one elsewhere. :)
5. Next, I hit up Walmart for the remainder of things Aldi's didn't have:
- Dogfood, formula, roast (for this week), produce, shampoo
6. We run our pantry DRY. Literally. We only buy what we need and eat it gone before the next grocery run.
NOW, I did my 2 week run yesterday (I did it early this time), and here's the totals:
*It used to cost me a little over $300 for 2 weeks when I was just shopping at Walmart.
But yesterday,
Aldi's bill: $110 (that included diapers for next 2 weeks)
Walmart: $60 (that included formula for 1.5 weeks...which is $20 a pop)
I will still need to buy one more can of formula before the end, and some milk/produce that we will run out of next week. But all meals (including dogs' meals) are accounted for until we re-start the cycle.
So what's on the menu??? (I also have all of these recipes typed up if anyone wants them):
Weekend: Tacos (I make this Saturday and then we eat on them for Sunday, too).
M/T: Bacony Chicken & Rice/Salad
W/T: Beef Enchiladas/Chips &Salsa
F: Grilled Chicken/Baked Potatoes/Veg
S/S: Poppyseed Chicken/Green Beans/Rolls
M/T: Roast/Potatoes/Carrots/Mac & Cheese
W/R: Chicken Spaghetti/Veg
F/Sun: Hamburgers
(We will have dinner with Jason's family Sat).
Something else new I am trying this week, is I bought a huge frozen pkg. of ground beef that was a lot cheaper, and am about to cook it up how I need it in the recipes for the week, and then freeze the portions to pull out on that particular day. We will see how that goes.
So there you have it. I would LOVE to hear additional tips from you guys!!!
And also, just a side note - when it comes to finances, my absolute biggest tip I tell everyone is NEVER NEGLECT TO TITHE.
I never tithed one time until my second year of marriage when we got serious about this stuff. We prayed on an amount that was sacrificial for us, and have it withdrawn first thing every month. When we changed churches, we didn't tithe all summer and yall our budget when nutso-crazy. No joke. And it didn't make sense because we should have had EXTRA money and for the first time in 2 years we were seeing RED. It was the weirdest thing. But we realized we had stopped tithing, repented (Seriously, on our bed...together) and haven't made that mistake again. The first step in getting finances right is recognizing who is Lord over your money and demonstrating obedience in this area. As a former none-thither, I am now a FIRM FIRM believer in this. God will not bestow blessings on your finances if you do not surrender them to Him. I am a witness. :)
I could share tons on this subject alone that we have learned, but I'll stop there for now.
Blessings!!!! :)
Sunday, September 23, 2012
It's For the Kids
This past weekend we got the privilege of getting all fancied up with some of our good friends and going out. My friend Meredith and her husband participate in this same charity event every year and invite us all to tag along and fill up the table. Honestly, I'm not even entirely sure about what the event was we attended (I know golf was involved at some point, along with an auction, and something about kids in crisis), but what I do know is:
1. babysitter for all kids
2. great great friends
3. free delicious food & drinks
4. fancy dresses dug up from the bottom of the closet (my choice, of course, had mysterious stains that thankfully came out)
5. makeup and no ponytail
6. PHOTOBOOTH. need I say more...
It was a blast.
It was great to make numerous references to the show "Friends" throughout the night and everyone actually get it. ***Yes - I now live in a circle (i.e.working with youth/college) where I've made such references and get blank stares*** But then they make Twilight ones and I *blank stare* them back. Anyway, so in light of the auction, there were many "Joey" remarks of "I WON!!!" and "Phoebe" remarks of "I'm doing it for the kids!" Yea of 30-something know what I'm talking about.
And here's some proof us busy mommies wear makeup and clothes beyond sweatpants/work-out gear. :)
1. babysitter for all kids
2. great great friends
3. free delicious food & drinks
4. fancy dresses dug up from the bottom of the closet (my choice, of course, had mysterious stains that thankfully came out)
5. makeup and no ponytail
6. PHOTOBOOTH. need I say more...
It was a blast.
It was great to make numerous references to the show "Friends" throughout the night and everyone actually get it. ***Yes - I now live in a circle (i.e.working with youth/college) where I've made such references and get blank stares*** But then they make Twilight ones and I *blank stare* them back. Anyway, so in light of the auction, there were many "Joey" remarks of "I WON!!!" and "Phoebe" remarks of "I'm doing it for the kids!" Yea of 30-something know what I'm talking about.
And here's some proof us busy mommies wear makeup and clothes beyond sweatpants/work-out gear. :)
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Ukrainian Orphans
So this is not some arbitrary mission.
It is dear to my heart and I've been able to see first hand these precious children and the lives that await for them once they're out of the orphanage and on their own. It's terrifying.
Her organization is launching a campaign to grow on social media so that more can be aware of the need, how God is already working, and how you too can also get involved! If you like their facebook page, you'll be aware of many different events that take place throughout the year...even opportunities for you to go be involved in their summer camps at the Pravda orphanage - which is life-changing people. :)
So click on this link and like their page today!!! You'll be blessed to see God at work in this part of the world!
I'll leave you with a picture of the little Ukrainian orphan that stole my heart on my very first trip on 2004.
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