tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79168489621945977772024-03-13T09:57:03.902-05:00Zsiga What's Happening?Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.comBlogger119125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-3388792509883727752012-08-16T14:49:00.001-05:002012-08-16T14:49:50.691-05:00What to Study?<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summer is over. School starts this week for most kids and the routine changes. It is a great time to begin new habits. One area of my life that can always use improvement: Prayer and Bible study. If that is true for you as well, but you don't know where to start I have a few suggestions for Bible study plans that will keep you accountable and help you to grow!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1.</span><a href="http://www.momstoolbox.com/blog/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Mom's Toolbox</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> hosts the </span><a href="http://www.momstoolbox.com/blog/bible-in-90-days-sign-up-is-open/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bible in 90 Days</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> which begins this Monday, August 20. I completed this program twice last year and by reading through the Bible in a relatively short time it is easy to see the big picture and understand how every part is important in God's plan. This takes abut 45 minutes a day, depending on how quickly you read and is 7 days a week. It is a commitment, but worth it! There are groups with mentors to keep you going! You can sign up at </span><a href="http://www.momstoolbox.com/blog/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mom's Toolbox.</span></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. </span><a href="http://www.goodmorninggirls.org/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Good Morning Girls</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> is beginning their fall Bible study in the book of </span><a href="http://www.goodmorninggirls.org/2012/08/fall-session-sign-ups-start-today/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Colossians</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. </span><a href="http://www.goodmorninggirls.org/gmg-sign-up-form/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sign up</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> is happening right now and the study will begin September 17. It is an 8 week study, Monday through Friday. They follow the SOAP method of studying Scripture. The best part of GMG studies: writing out every verse I study! I read it, I write it. I think about it. I pray about it. I learn and grow! This study can take as little as 10 minutes a day or you can chew and mull over the Word, checking out parallel passages and commentary for as long as you'd like.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. </span><a href="http://store.precept.org/s-197-kay-arthur.aspx"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Precepts Bible Study</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> has taught me to love the Word! And to learn from it myself! Our local group in Branson, MO is studying </span><a href="http://store.precept.org/p-64-2-timothy-precept-workbook.aspx"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 Timothy</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> this fall. Let me know if you want to attend and I will get you details. If you are in another area you can </span><a href="http://classes.preceptnetwork.org/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">find a study near you</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What is your favorite way to study the Bible?</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-49721123496491115032012-02-22T12:45:00.000-06:002012-02-22T12:45:32.771-06:00Overwhelmed<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've been feeling overwhelmed. Nothing major. Just an increasing number of small issues.</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are refinancing our house, so there are phone calls, appointments, faxes, emails, paperwork.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am starting a business venture, {side note: If you or someone you know in the Branson area would like private swimming lessons, let me know!} and with that need part time childcare, advertising, liability insurance.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Somehow we inadvertently made an in-app purchase on the iPod and I don't like to be out money, even if it's only $1.99.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My summer job is, apparently, already starting.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For the last 16 hours I just wanted to cry and sleep, but I have two small children. So I prayed as often as I could remember. Praying without ceasing is a work in progress. In the last hour God has worked out more of my "issues" than I would have thought possible. He truly is faithful. Today I am grateful to see it so clearly in my life.</span><br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-90874036069985984112012-02-21T12:26:00.001-06:002012-02-21T12:26:33.195-06:00Some Motivation for Thought<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last week I <a href="http://zsigawhat.blogspot.com/2012/02/keeping-on.html">bemoaned about being frugal</a>, and some of you are with me. It's hard to keep saving money when it seems like EVERYONE around you is spending it. I came up with a few things that make a difference to me. </span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Recieving the mortgage statement when MORE money was going to principle than to interest.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Student loans <em>one</em> and <em>two</em> GONE in one summer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Seeing the saving account grow little by little every month.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Knowing that there will be hundreds of dollars a month to save and give and invest in just a few years.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">Trusting that being responsible with the material goods I have been entrusted with is acting in obediance to God.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">What are some of the "little" things that keep you going strong on spending little?</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-89877325799742376202012-02-17T09:38:00.000-06:002012-02-17T09:38:29.523-06:00Keeping On<span style="font-family: Arial;">Andy and I (or maybe</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <strike>just</strike> </span><span style="font-family: Arial;">mostly me) have a lot of steep financial goals. Even without these goals we are on a tight budget. My husband is a junior high teacher and my income is small to nonexistant. I know in the long run I'll be glad, like when our house is paid off before I'm 35. But right now it's hard. Seven years of sacrifice; I feel like Jacob waiting for Rachel.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I want to buy groceries without worrying about the cost of pasta or broccoli.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I want to buy new clothes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I want to eat out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I want everything. I want whatever is easiest and "best".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">But really, I don't. And when I have it all, I am not happy. So how do I stay motivated?</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-21254576249491687422012-02-15T13:31:00.001-06:002012-02-15T13:31:48.739-06:00I am not<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am not the most beautiful person<br />But I am pleasant to look at</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div>
<br />I am not the best wife<br />But my husband adores me</div>
<div>
<br />I am not the most patient mom<br />But my children love me most</div>
<div>
<br />I am not an outstanding vocalist<br />But my Lord loves my praise</div>
<div>
<br />I am not a professional chef<br />But I feed my family and friends</div>
<div>
<br />I am not a seamstress<br />But my loved ones are clothed</div>
<div>
<br /><span style="font-size: large;">I am not</span><span style="font-size: x-small;">I am not</span></div>
</span><div>
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But He is</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">God is all. All I need. All I can ask or hope for.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div>
<br /> </div>
</span><div>
</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-52694192962004592192011-07-14T15:35:00.000-05:002011-07-14T15:35:51.988-05:00Bible in 90 Days<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In January began reading the Bible in 90 days with </span><a href="http://www.momstoolbox.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mom's Toolbox</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. I actually finished in 86 because it is just that great. The Bible is truly the greatest story ever told! The challenge started again this week and I am in the middle of Genesis, the original soap opera! I noticed something new when I read today. (I love learning new things! That's the great thing about the Bible!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Leah, the first wife of Jacob, was not the favorite of her husband. That role belonged to her younger sister, Rachel. Leah wanted to be loved. She had several sons. Smart and strong. Leah would be a good mom, a good wife, and Jacob <strong>would</strong> love her. Leah's focus and perspecive changed with the birth of each son. The first son she named Reuben because "surely my husband will love me now." When Simeon was born she said, "Because the Lord has heard that I am not loved, He gave me this one too." Another attempt when Levi was born; "at last my husband will become attached to me." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">When Judah was born, Leah realized that her hope, confidence, and worth was never going to come from Jacob; only from the Lord. Leah named her fourth son Judah. It means praise. She said, "this time I will praise the Lord."</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">Where does my hope, confidence, and worth come from?</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-91382137576307291752011-03-14T13:53:00.001-05:002011-03-14T13:54:50.327-05:00Winner Purex Complete Crystals!The WINNER is....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Shawna!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Congratulations!</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-47905031470919531912011-03-08T14:43:00.000-06:002011-03-08T14:43:16.911-06:00What a Difference! {{Purex Giveaway!}}<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My husband is a junior high teacher and coach. Last week baseball began. On Tuesday Andy came home and the minute he walked through the door I could smell him! <strong>Ew</strong>. The combination of sweat, dirt, and manure from the pasture next to the ball field is not my favorite scent. Andy changed shirts and put on fresh deodorant before we ate supper and were off to basketball games.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The next day the kids and I met Andy at church after his practice and I was pleasantly surprised when I saw him. He didn't stink. He actually smelled <strong>nice</strong>. <em>Interesting</em>. After a minute I realized why- </span><a href="http://www.purex.com/MXTQEPZOXYOMU6811AXODMQMFIYLHZ"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Purex Complete Crystals!</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I used this new fabric softener on a couple of loads of laundry and apparently it made difference!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't usually use fabric softener for a number of reasons but Purex sent me a sample of their great new product and after reading about it, most of my reasons were obsolete! </span><br />
<ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't like to use fabric softener on the kids clothes because it lessens the flame retardants of their jammies. Purex Complete Crystals does not because the PJs are not coated in oil, instead they are infused with freshness!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The oil in fabric softener makes towels less absorbent, but this does not contain all those oils! That means my towels can smell nice and dry things too!</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My workout clothes! Exercise attire is expensive and fabric softener can mess it up, once again, Purex Complete Crystals does not!</span></li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-iOCtHQQGaZA/TXaUdgyXN6I/AAAAAAAAAYk/ncdN1lvkaTg/s1600/purex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" q6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-iOCtHQQGaZA/TXaUdgyXN6I/AAAAAAAAAYk/ncdN1lvkaTg/s1600/purex.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm still not using it on my cloth diapers and I probably would not use this if I had a newborn. The fragrance and color may irritate sensitive skin. On that same note, I think that if you had sensitive skin Purex Complete Crystals, like other laundry products with additives, could bother you.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">I like this stuff. I think you will to and I want you to try it! That's why I am giving away a coupon for a FREE bottle of the NEW Purex Complete Crystals. To enter the giveaway leave a comment with your name letting me (and Purex) know what laundry issue you need a fix for! <strong>This giveaway ends Sunday, March 13 at 11:59 pm!</strong></span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">I was provided with a complimentary bottle of Purex Complete Crystals to review as well as a coupon to give! I was compensated in any other way and my opinions are my own!</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-2563450197114437632010-12-10T13:55:00.000-06:002010-12-10T13:55:28.193-06:00Book Review: Masquerade<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Masquerade</strong> by Nancy Moser was great book and what made it even better was the originality of the plot. It was not a story I have read a dozen times.</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TQKFdy5wsdI/AAAAAAAAAYM/REIO-Q7ClXg/s1600/masquerade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TQKFdy5wsdI/AAAAAAAAAYM/REIO-Q7ClXg/s320/masquerade.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's the gist: Lottie's society family in 1180's England has status, but no money. Before word of their financial status gets out her parents decide to marry her off to a wealthy American. Lottie is not happy but develops a plan when her mother is unable to make the journey with her because of illness.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Lottie and her maid, Dora, decided to switch places. Dora will marry the wealthy American and Lottie will make her own way equipped with a sufficient amount of money. Of course all does not go according to plan. The girls both have heartache and love as they make their way in a new world.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">I didn't know how the book would end the entire time and enjoyed the ending. I would give the book 4 out of 5 stars. A side note: I love that Moser included fashion from the late 1800's. A bit of 'real' history is always fun!</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I receive this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not compensated in any other way.</span></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-62080228648805045122010-12-01T13:22:00.001-06:002010-12-01T13:23:37.018-06:00From my bookshelf...<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I generally read fiction because I like stories. I especially like love stories. Lately however I have been bored when I read, so I tried switching it up. This is what I have read in the last couple weeks.</span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Simple-Dollar-Wiped-Achieved-Dreams/dp/0137054254/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1291231128&sr=1-1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>The Simple Dollar</strong> by Trent Hamm</span></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/What-Wives-their-Husbands-about/dp/B001PO6676/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1291231166&sr=1-1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>What Wives Wish Their Husbands Knew About Sex</strong> by Ryan Howe, Richard Rupp, Stephen Simpson</span></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mountain-Rain-Biography-Pioneer-Missionary/dp/0877885516/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1291231072&sr=1-2"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Mountain Rain: A Biography of James O. Fraser</strong> by Eileen Fraser Crossman</span></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Still to read...</span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crazy-Love-Overwhelmed-Relentless-God/dp/1434768511/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1291231311&sr=1-1"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Crazy Love</strong> by Francis Chan</span></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hadassah-Night-King-Tommy-Tenney/dp/0764229435/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1291231249&sr=1-1#_"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Hadassah</strong>: One Night With the King by Tommy Tenney</span></a>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-6378532361452522742010-11-15T08:49:00.000-06:002010-11-15T08:49:23.115-06:00Give thanks for recovery<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am thankful that my house is in need of LOTS of work today. I need to clean just about every room and do laundry. I spent the weekend spending time with my Mom and Grammy, so I was not home to straighten.</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-12026366261726952322010-11-11T11:41:00.000-06:002010-11-11T11:41:46.680-06:00Happy 30th Birthday to...<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Andy!</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TNwmcqG-lpI/AAAAAAAAAYI/Do8qu0Bbuoo/s1600/lots+617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TNwmcqG-lpI/AAAAAAAAAYI/Do8qu0Bbuoo/s320/lots+617.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andy at the World Series a couple weeks ago. It was his birthday gift!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My husband is 30 today! I am so glad he was born. He is my best friend and he loves me unconditionally. I have enjoyed spending the last 7 years with him and I look forward to 70 more!</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-65073382736316839972010-11-10T17:51:00.000-06:002010-11-10T17:51:43.790-06:00Give Thanks for puking<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am thankful that Carmody woke up covered in vomit yesterday. It made me realize that I am thankful she is generally healthy and being sick is a rarity.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">You can see what other <a href="http://zsigawhat.blogspot.com/search/label/thankful">unlikely things I am thankful for</a> this month!</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-38479759716306958992010-11-08T09:06:00.002-06:002010-11-08T09:06:32.188-06:00Give Thanks for sore muscles<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am thankful for the sore muscles in my legs. I am thankful that it hurts everytime I sit or stand. This is because I have been blessed with legs and arms that work! I can run and work my body hard!</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-39640230111546133132010-11-05T13:33:00.000-05:002010-11-05T13:33:50.579-05:00Give Thanks for my kitchen<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am spending the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving practicing being <a href="http://zsigawhat.blogspot.com/search/label/thankful">thankful for things I would normally complain about</a>.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Today I am thankful for my small, messy kitchen. I am thankful for the dirty dishes and food stuck on the stove and the spills on the floor. This means that I had food to eat and a family to enjoy it with!</em></span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-26039051326148219062010-11-03T10:01:00.001-05:002010-11-03T10:11:58.195-05:00Give Thanks for Tiredness<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am thankful that I am tired today. My tiredness is a result of talking to my husband too late, rocking my daughter when she woke up in the middle of the night, and comforting my son when he had a bad dream early in the morning. I am thankful that I have a family to care for.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">You can also see what else I am <a href="http://zsigawhat.blogspot.com/2010/11/give-thanks.html">thankful</a> for!</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-14775976074082235812010-11-01T18:04:00.001-05:002010-11-01T18:04:00.276-05:00Give Thanks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TM8TXyU4FtI/AAAAAAAAAYE/KBfWnhzdyMI/s1600/thankful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" nx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TM8TXyU4FtI/AAAAAAAAAYE/KBfWnhzdyMI/s200/thankful.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sometimes it seems there are many things to complain about in our lives and not a lot to be thankful for.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><u>NOT true!</u></strong></span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today is November 1. Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away and I want to have the right attitude as it as well as the Christmas approaches. Over the next two months I will share what I am thankful for. <strong>I hope you will let me know what things you have in your life to give thanks for!</strong></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><em>I am thankful for the neverending laundry. I am thankful for the pile of clothes covering my bed. This means my family has clean clothes to wear each day. It also means we have a wonderful working washer and dryer, the ability to buy laundry detergent, and are able to pay our electric bill every month. What a blessing.</em></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I appreciate </span><a href="http://thecerretticircle.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Leigh Ann</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> being thankful in her facebook status'. I love the encouragement.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: xx-small;">(<a href="http://www.thestayathomemother.com/">photo credit</a>)</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-83337549713815363392010-11-01T13:38:00.000-05:002010-11-01T13:38:48.466-05:00To Do Today (or soon!)I have a book review I have been meaning to write. I finished the book a month ago. I probably need to read it again now to refresh my memory.<br />
I have another book I recieved several months ago. I was excited to read it, but have yet to finish it. It's boring.<br />
I need to fufill my commitments.<br />
It is my last night of swimming lessons for this session.<br />
<a href="http://zsigawhat.blogspot.com/2010/01/laundry.html">Laundry</a> is NEVERending.<br />
Granola needs to be made. I love <a href="http://zsigawhat.blogspot.com/2009/06/skillet-granola.html">homemade granola</a>!<br />
I hope to find some <a href="http://zsigawhat.blogspot.com/2010/10/markdown-specifics.html">good deals</a> at the grocery store.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-38051881128791805852010-10-29T20:58:00.000-05:002010-10-29T20:58:52.144-05:00Salty or Sweet?<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You know how after you eat something salty, you want something sweet?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And after you eat something sweet, you really need something salty, right?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is a dilemma. My solution: a handful of Dove chocolate with peanut butter and a bag of pepperoni.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TMt7nsPm_rI/AAAAAAAAAYA/893fQZyaQ-g/s1600/dave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" nx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TMt7nsPm_rI/AAAAAAAAAYA/893fQZyaQ-g/s1600/dave.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes, I sat on the couch and read a book with both of these beside me. Wonderful. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(And pathetic.)</span></span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-21131306774861402752010-10-28T06:41:00.002-05:002010-10-28T06:41:00.679-05:00Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred: A Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TMXYI1IEQiI/AAAAAAAAAX4/QNBIWqjPhx8/s1600/shred.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TMXYI1IEQiI/AAAAAAAAAX4/QNBIWqjPhx8/s320/shred.jpg" width="227" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If one completes 30 consecutive days of Jillian's program you will be <strong>shredded</strong>, hence the name! (or so she says...) There are three levels that get progressively harder. Each person should move up as he or she is able. This is a SHORT workout. Each one is about 20 minutes. However it <em>is</em> hard. You move and work the <strong>entire</strong> time. There are no static stretches or weights. The strength segments include cardio as well, because each incorporates upper and lower body and uses light weights with lots of reps.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here is a breakdown of the video</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 minutes- warm up</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 minutes- strength #1</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 minutes- cardio #1</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 minute- abs #1</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 minutes- strength #2</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 minutes- cardio #2</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 minute- abs #2</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 minutes- strength #3</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 minutes- cardio #3</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 minute- abs #3</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 minutes- cool down/stretching</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Total= 22 minutes and you're done!</span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Each level follows the same pattern.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><u><strong>Some Considerations</strong></u></span><br />
<ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial;">You might want to do a bit more of a warm up and more stretching. Jog or march in place while the video is going through ads and credits at the beginning. When you are done, keep stretching!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">When this video ended I felt like I was just getting started. Ideally I would like to run for 20-30 minutes after finishing it! There was not enough endurance cardio for what I am wanting to do (run 5ks).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">The girls in the video use 5lb weights. For some exercises this was great, but if you have heavier weights also they can be used for some sets.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">If you only have heavier weights, there are some exercises that can be done with one weight rather than two. Also, feel free to not use weights on the later sets if you are getting sore!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">In level three the cardio activities (jump rope, butt kicks, jumping jacks, punches) are done with the weights in hand and going lighter might be good. I'd like 3lb weights for this!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">Water! Water! <span style="font-size: large;">WATER</span>! Drink it! You will sweat!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">I did not need shoes for the first level, but I did for the second and third. These include mountain climbers and walking push-ups that rubbed my feet!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">Jillian tells you not to stop and to work at max level the whole time. This is great <strong>IF</strong> you have worked out regularly and do not have joint problems. <strong>Listen to your body</strong>!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">If you are like me and this was over too soon, do two (or even three) levels back to back for a more intense workout!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">If you are a beginner, take it slow! Move at a slower pace than Jillian. You can speed up as you build muscle and stamina. Do less repetitions or use lighter (or no) weights. Push yourself, but don't over do it.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">My triceps are weak and there is not an exercise that targets these, although they are worked in several of the chest exercises.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">Jillian uses language that I would not love for my children to hear a couple times throughout the video. There is a menu option to turn off the talking and just have the music.</span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">I am NOT a doctor or a professional trainer. Do not do this program (or any other exercise regiment) without your physician's consent!</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-11235687194087382112010-10-27T12:41:00.000-05:002010-10-27T12:41:33.541-05:00Fitness Junkies<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TMhjleK5RiI/AAAAAAAAAX8/IzvM4nHeVow/s1600/fall+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nx="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TMhjleK5RiI/AAAAAAAAAX8/IzvM4nHeVow/s320/fall+001.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eli with his 'weights' working out! He loves it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am planning to run <strong>two</strong> 5ks in November. I have NEVER done one before! Therefore, I must train. I have not really worked out in about 4 years. Before I got pregnant with my first child. That is not to say I did NOTHING for the last 4 years. I walked at least three times a week and I teach swimming lessons and the occasional water aerobics class. However, that is different than running for a half hour or doing an hour-long boot camp class with Monica at the YMCA.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When Eli started preschool two morning a week in late August, I decided I would go to the YMCA and workout. Boot Camp was not my choice. It just happened to be the class that was going on while I was there. <strong>I love it</strong>. We do a lot of it outside (where there are not mirrors for me to see how uncoordinated I am) and run up hills, do push ups on the ground, jump rope, and many other things in our circuit interval training.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It turns out, two days a week is not enough for me. I am into exercise! I had been running once or twice a week. Still not enough. Exercise videos are the answer! I borrowed A LOT from my friend Kim. I will be posting reviews and commentary on how they are going as I work my way through her collection.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you have any recommendations, let me know. I might <em>work</em> my way there!</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-25741029114424432532010-10-25T09:05:00.000-05:002010-10-25T09:05:48.348-05:00Markdown Specifics<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you missed it, you can read my <a href="http://zsigawhat.blogspot.com/2010/10/grocery-markdowns.html">tips for finding markdowns</a>.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are some of the things I frequently find, the price I pay on average, and how I use them!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">bagged salad- $1 -lunch for me for the next 2-3 days or added to that evening's dinner</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">yogurt- $.25 or less -snacks or breakfast for Andy or the kids. Yogurt is generally good for 7 days past the sell-by date. I usually get the bets deals on the multi-packs.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">milk- $1/gallon -I get organic or chocolate! Chocolate milk is a great snack or dessert, with white milk I usually bake a large batch of waffles or pancakes to freeze.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">refrigerated salsa- $1 -lunch for me, snack for Andy and I, or side dish for mexican</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">whipping cream- $.50 -<strong>rich</strong> baking or </span><a href="http://zsigawhat.blogspot.com/2010/10/heavy-whipping-cream.html"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">alfredo sauce</span></a></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">bread- $2 or less -add to dinner</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">sub-style foot long sandwich- $3 -picnic lunch for the family!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">juice- $.50 -take to morning Bible study for snacks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">cookies, muffins, other desserts- $2 or less -snacks for groups like potlucks and Bible study.</span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Arial;">This is a great way to add variety or add in foods that are normally too expensive!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Have you found any great markdown groceries? What do you use them for? Share your best tips!</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-69651334379075385962010-10-23T21:17:00.000-05:002010-10-23T21:17:49.257-05:00Grocery Markdowns<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;"><strong>FREE!</strong></span> That was the cost of my refrigerator salsa and yogurt drinks today. Not bad! However, I usually have to pay <em>something</em> for markdowns at the store, but it is a small fraction of the price.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Markdown Tips</u></span><br />
<br />
<ol><li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ask! Not every store will mark things down. Wal-mart suppliers give them a guaranteed sale on most items. Some local or chain stores also can return out of date items to the company. You never know unless you ask though. <strong>Many stores are glad to</strong>!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Know what has a relatively short shelf life. I routinely find yogurt, milk and other dairy products, salad and other prepackaged produce, bakery items, meats, refrigerated juice and dough. There may be other things you use!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Look for things already marked down. The meat and bakery departments in my local store are good about marking down items that are close to their sale by dates. These often have <strong>brightly colored stickers</strong> that say <em>managers special</em> or <em>bonus buy</em>.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Check the dates. If it is yesterday, today, or tomorrow I take it with me to the check out line and ask for a manager. On occasion I have been told no or asked to pay more than I think the food is worth, so I don't get it. No big deal.</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Ask yourself if you have a use for this, soon! For example, with a loaf of specialty bread I might decide to change tonight's menu to spaghetti and use the herb cheese bread for $1.</span></li>
</ol><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">It takes a little time, but I have found it to be worth it. </span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TLeZUy8fjUI/AAAAAAAAAXE/4vsaeeQi3C8/s1600/fall+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" nx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TLeZUy8fjUI/AAAAAAAAAXE/4vsaeeQi3C8/s200/fall+055.JPG" width="150" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another posts is coming soon with some specifics like what I find marked down and the price I expect!</span></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-12291784633252107162010-10-19T14:50:00.000-05:002010-10-19T14:50:47.851-05:00Why?<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TL32WAdz3YI/AAAAAAAAAXs/y2wmu_r86aQ/s1600/springbreak+143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_39VPEYI6Urk/TL32WAdz3YI/AAAAAAAAAXs/y2wmu_r86aQ/s320/springbreak+143.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Blogger has recently (in the last few months) added a feature that allows bloggers to check the 'Stats' of their blog. How many hits each month, week, day, and hour receive. You can also see the kind of operating system and browser each visitor used and what country they were in. I can see what posts are most popular and what link a person click on to come to my blog. So fun. A little distracting.<br />
<br />
Today I reflected on why I blog. So I can have hundreds of visitors each month? So every post has many comments? So I know people are interested in what I have to say? Um, it should NOT be any of those reasons. Instead my motivation should be how another is encouraged, even if it is just one person.<br />
<br />
Much thanks to my dear friend <a href="http://brookelynsickler.blogspot.com/">Brooke</a> for reminding me because of her sweet comment!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7916848962194597777.post-14475904268442401062010-10-18T09:56:00.000-05:002010-10-18T09:56:26.628-05:00Perfect<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well, Webster says that perfect means being without fault or defect. The greek word means complete, or having all parts. Those definitions are a little different, huh? I will not, in this life, be without fault or defect, and there is no point in trying. However, I can be complete or have all I need. I am NOT there, nor do I think I will be there any time soon (like in the next decade), but I can take steps towards completeness. There are things I can do everyday in a quest to being 'perfect'.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Today I will practice speaking kindly to my children.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Today I will practice spending my time wisely. (And on that note, I have to get off the computer!)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">What will you practice today?</span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01749144579910285335noreply@blogger.com1