My Purpose

TLT

2011-04-01T21:41:00.005-04:00

Tempeh, lettuce and tomato is better than a BLT!!!!

Snow and Keys...

2011-04-01T21:17:00.011-04:00

Ring in the new month with heavy wet snow!! Lost power this morning for almost 5 hours...glad it wasn't any longer! It was a nice (probably last) snow for April!

Work was great, learning how to take orders and answer phones....well, not so great. Why can't that just come easy for me?! I am so thankful for an absolutely aMaZiNg boss! She has so much patience. I am now an official key holder and opener! Monday I will be opening, and doing the morning routine by myself as much as I can without help. The goal is for me to open by myself eventually, so hopefully I can remember everything!

Today I tried the unsweetened almond milk, and it wasn't bad at all, just a little bit of palate adjusting. Hey, for 20 calories less....I can adjust for some things :p

Break!

2011-03-26T15:06:00.002-04:00

Ahhh.....the work weekend is over! I get monday off this week and it's school vacation so the family is home. I am hoping we'll be able to do something fun together.
I can't believe it will be April in just six days! That's just crazy how fast my first month of work is almost over. I have to smarten-up, since I'll no longer have "the new girl" excuse!
Tonight I am going to try a pumpkin ice cream (I have looked up some recipes, but none using tofu/soy milk combo), so I am on my on for this one, which gives me a whole world to explore, I love experimenting! If it's a success I'll have to post it!

Work today went really well, I have been getting used to the register/customers/prices/flavors a little more, and I am sure it will get much easier as I do it more. I fear those customers with all the questions (that I don't know)!

Well.... off to prepare dessert!

P.S. Just realized I didn't comment on the tofu "freezing method". It was pretty good however it really absorbs like a sponge, so I suggest marinating in something MILD. Will have to try it again and see what I come up with, that works.

So you think ice-cream for breakfast can't be healthy?

2011-03-22T10:27:00.003-04:00

Ok, so this morning I ended up having oatmeal, w/ a side of ice-cream! No, it's not what you are thinking!

While my oatmeal was cooking this morning, I decided to try a new "one ingredient" ice cream recipe for snack later, can you guess the ingredient? Banana's, yes, that's right!

Take a bunch of very ripe (mine were black) and stick em' in the freezer until frozen (mine had been in there for a couple months) then peel and place in a food processer and pulse until smooth and creamy (several minutes).

I prefer to make this with more pizazz then just banana's, so I added vanilla, honey, cocoa and a last pulse with peanuts for some crunch. This turned out just like ice cream!

I was very skeptical at first, how can frozen bannana's taste anything like ice-cream?? I really don't care for banana's all that much either. But to to my surprise it really doesn't taste very banana-ee, it taste's just like ICE CREAM!! It's definitely a keeper. So after much "taste testing", I put it away in the freezer (for later), and finally had my small bowl of oatmeal! Hey, it's actually not a bad breakfast :) Go ahead try it!

Crazy Monday and the weekend

2011-03-15T10:59:00.003-04:00

What a crazy day at work on Monday!!!
I started learning the cash register and dealing with customers. I was SO nervous, there was a lot to take in and that made my mind draw "blanks" when it came to the customers purchases. I am glad that is over, and now I just have to worry about the time I start answering phones :( Not soon I hope.

Vegan-living is going well, I made it through the weekend and I am lovin' it! I grilled the tempeh from last Tuesdays shopping -after it was marinaded in a honey-soy combo! It's the next best "find" after the almond milk!
The hardest part is coming up with new meals for one person, on a regular basis, so I usually have leftovers -which is great if it's a hit (like the tempeh), but not so much if it's a flop!

Tonight I am trying a new method of preparing tofu, where you freeze then marinade, and bake it. The freezing changes the texture of the tofu, giving it a rougher, chewier (meatier) texture, as oppose to the soft & smooth. If it comes even close to the tempeh I'll be thrilled. For lunch today, I am going to pan roast the spaghetti squash from last weeks leftovers and maybe roast up some veggies to put on top. Should be tasty!

Just over a week!

2011-03-10T19:49:00.011-05:00

It's been just over a week working at the bakery and I am finding it a wonderful opportunity! I haven't been dealing with the customers or answering phones....but I just learned yesterday that I will be as of Monday!! Yikes! As long as I don't get a complicated question or order I should be fine.

I was able to try "firm" tofu yesterday and it was good. I diced it, pan fried it in a little olive oil and light seasonings and added it to my salad, great way to add some protein!

Today I made "tofu-balls" (meatballs) and spaghetti squash with homemade vegetable spagehtti sauce and a slice of wheat garlic toast.....not bad! I think I will just add tofu in the sauce instead of the tofu-balls, since it didn't quite have the flavor expected, and I don't think there's a way to get that flavor. Oh, and lunch was a roasted, summer squash and tomato wrap! That was fantastic!

"Good eats"

2011-03-04T09:32:00.006-05:00

This morning I tried almond milk for the first time, and I think it's my favorite so far! It's very creamy and rich. I went back for another half a glass it was so good!

Yesterday I made some "Moroccan quinoa", which I think has been my favorite vegan dish so far (I'll post the recipe below). The flavor of the curry, cumin and cinnamon blended so well together. I am going to have the leftovers for lunch this afternoon.....and then I am going to have to make another batch :)

My vegan adaption of "spiced quinoa" (from allrecipes.com)

2 tsp olive oil
1/2 small onion, chopped
1/4 cup shredded carrot
1/2 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup quinoa + 2 Tblsp.
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh spinach
3/4 tsp. curry powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. cumin
1/8 tsp. cinnamon
3/4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 (14 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup toasted almonds
1/4 cup raisins, (optional)
Directions:
1.Stir together the olive oil, onion, carrot, and garlic in a saucepan over medium heat until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the quinoa, curry powder, salt, pepper, cumin, cinnamon, and chicken stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 10 minutes then add spinash and cook another 10 minutes until the quinoa is tender.
2.Once the quinoa has finished cooking, stir in the drained garbanzo beans, and raisins. Garnish with toasted almonds. Serve warm or cold. Enjoy, it's not only healthy, but super delicious!
*this is originally serves 4, but I halved the recipe to serve 2, approx 3/4 cup servings.

Back to the grind

2011-03-03T10:18:00.008-05:00

First day of work went well. It was quite stressful, (I think I just psyche myself up about counting out the flour/sugar etc.) and I had to count 18 CUPS of flour and 20 CUPS of chocolate chips -something I've never done before! But I am giving myself at least 4 weeks to form any opinions :p

I was pleased at all I had accomplished though.... I first had a tour and then jumped right in to fillling canolli's. Then assembled some mini tarts to prepare a "50 piece platter", made cookie dough and scooped it ALL on to pans (and there were 2 + huge sheet pans) , closing tasks which include: wrapping trays, preparing trays of morning foods for opener, sweeping and watching the close-up routine. So it was certainly a long day! I can only hope it will get better from here :) My co-workers are very friendly, and it's great having co-workers again!

Day #1 down and many more to come! Thanks for reading.

New things

2011-02-28T21:00:00.007-05:00

Okay.....now this has been a really LONG time posting! I am sorry this hasn't gone where I wanted in the blogging atmosphere.....maybe I can revive myself just a little and get on regularly.

So I see the last time I came on was just before I left for college in Cali this past fall. I attended one semester, and it was a great opportunity! I was priveleged to have an absolutely A-mazing roomate! I am so glad God blessed our friendship with doing everything together! I wish I could have just been a little more of an encouragement to her as she was to me.
I was also able to take 2 months or so of piano which has been a great starting point. My piano teacher is an awesome lady, and I was able to spend Thanksgiving at her house, getting to know her more was really nice. I am so thankful for the time I had with her, she had me over her house frequently to bake and just have an awesome time away from college, it was a home-away-from-home for me :)

During the time I was away so much went on back home in my family's lives. I am pleased to say a lot for the better, but trials are still among our home, particularly since my dad was recently saved, and there is so much change and growing needed. All I can say is patience is much to be aquired around our home, and I thank God that He's on our side and we can, by His grace, make it through each day!

I have been searching for a job since the new year, and finally the Lord has blessed me with a job at a bakery! I will begin my baking journey this Wednesday (March 2, 2011). This is a new and exciteing step, and I am also nervous at the same time, as I can't believe I am already moving on to my 2nd job! It seems I just began working only the other day!

Great posting! I hope to update or maybe create a new blog with my new adventures....we'll see if that happens :)

Cali in the fall

2010-07-23T16:08:00.003-04:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I have been on here!!I guess facebook has taken priority :)

I am so excited about how the Lord has been moving among me and my family! I will be heading out to Golden State Baptist College in just over a month, my how time flies!!! I am eager to learn all that God has for me, and I can't wait for all the changes to begin. Please pray for the friends I make, that I will chose only God's best, the friends that will draw me closer to Him.

2010-01-12T13:20:00.004-05:00

“Struggling ere the way, God sends us a friend”

Though I find myself alone, I pray to God and find sweet rest. You see when life is dull, and rough the way seems, I always have a friend when I am in need. He sent me a friend for a reminder, of the love He sends me each day. When I am feeling blue and Satan’s power pulls strong, I turn it over to God and find in His power there is grace every hour. You see its not by chance that He gives us a friend its part of His purpose for each child of His. So lift your head high, look up to the sky and when life seems tough remember the friend He has blessed each of us with!

Okay so I LOVE to write, yeah I think I just discovered that! I know this needs touching up, I wrote it up quickly....any criticism would be very much appreciated : ) Thank you!

2009-10-05T16:53:00.004-04:00

Wow, it's been a long time....I have been battling for months on "decisions", college in particular. Well, last night God convicted me, and I realized that although I have been praying for God's direction, I haven't really surrended myself in going back to college, I will admit there is nothing more I DO NOT want to do besides going back, and unless I am truly trusting the Lord in that area, I am not going to get an answer. It was a hard night....trying to sleep....but I am going to let Him decide:-) It's a hard thing! But I know if He wants me to go back, then there is obviously a great reason.

2009-09-18T18:19:00.003-04:00

Weeping Willow Poem

"They cut and carved upon that tree;
Stripped it of blossom and bark.
Then, they made a rugged cross.
That's the day the world turned dark.

As Jesus hung upon that tree,
He was the last fruit it would bear.
For, Jesus was the fruit of God.
He was longsuffering and full of care.

The tree no longer stood proud,
As the blood of the Lamb did stain.
It bent with the weight of its shame
And it wanted to weep from the pain.

Jesus whispered to the tree,
'From this day forth shall you cry.'
Thus grew the weeping willow
That had watched the Savior die."

By Claytia Doran

Remembering 9-11

2009-09-11T14:10:00.005-04:00

Its hard to believe its the 8th year memorial of nine-eleven today.

May the Lord be with those who lost family and friends, and give comfort and more importantly salvation to them! Such a tragic incident and yet more importantly that this is God's country.

9-9-09

2009-09-09T14:28:00.002-04:00

Yep, its that special date:-) Our local news channel is having a viewing of people's photos, but it has to be taken on 9-9-09. No one besides me and the dogs are home now, so I am just going to snap a few of those furry friends now:-)

September

2009-09-01T14:52:00.006-04:00

Wow.... September is here!!! Just the beginning of my favorite time of year, and probably my favorite month. The weather has been so gorgeous this week....looking forward to more of it:)

Been so busy today, baking a cake and putting it together, just have to finish frosting/decorating the outside...yay!

I was asked if I would be interested in helping out with "Patch the Pirate Pee Wee Club" this year, so I jumped for the opportunity to minister.....I will be starting Wednesday, and it will be through to next Summer....just pray the Lord uses me, and helps me, as I have never served in any children's ministries before. I am sure this would be a great learning experience, but I am very nervous about it.

I am also very excited that I will be able to learn the handbells this year, I think it is an awesome ministry, and I am glad to be a part of it! I am so glad that the Lord is giving me opportunities to keep busy. I am dogsitting for a gentleman at church and have another opportunity in October to dogsitt for a couple while they go away for their anniversary.

2009-08-23T08:32:00.003-04:00

Can't believe Summer is nearly over....everyone will be heading back to school in just a few weeks. Although I am excited for the georgeous fall foliage and brisk weather, I am going to be lonely and sad. This will be the first year that I am working and mama and the girls are gone also. I love the time from Sept/Oct.-Dec. putting the potpourri on the stove and baking cookies, especially when it is Christmas and we bake gingerbread creations. I will surely miss spending the time I used to spend at home with my sister's doing crafts and making pretzels or even making them hot cocoa on a snowy winter afternoon.

Surely the Lord will show me what to do next so I wont have such empty days, I seem to have to remind myself about that a lot.

Ooohh....did I see a tennis ball??

2009-07-06T18:23:00.009-04:00

So it doesn't matter what toys I buy Kujo, he always goes for the smallest one. Yoshi got some mini tennis balls a while back and somehow they eventually made it into Kujo's mouth! It's so funny because he manages to chew carefully enough that they last a while. He is so pathetic....all I can do is smile :-)

Independence Day!

2009-07-04T19:27:00.003-04:00

Happy Independence Day!

For some reason this year I really focused on what Independence Day is really all about. I think so much of the time we get caught up in the fact that it is just a day we do something "fun", like cook-outs and fireworks, but its not about a tradition of partying, but rather a tradition in celebrating the declaration, and that's what it's all about.

It amazes me that everyone now says Happy July 4th, as if its just a "day", we may as well just say Happy June 16th or August 1st and so on, its about the events that took place on July 4th 1776! Just a note in remembrance to our country:-) So on this fine July 4th just remember this country and the people in history God chose to use, and the signing of the declaration!

2009-06-04T18:48:00.003-04:00

The weather has been gorgeous this week, we had a nice breeze yesterday and today which helps keep the house cool. Unfortunately I didn't have many hours at work this week, but it worked out nicely, I was able to spend time visiting with my cousin, who I haven't seen for a very long time. It was really nice! Then, yesterday me and Mel finally got a chance to practice some music together, which was awesome, and tomorrow there is a girls sleepover at our Pastor's home, and I am going to be able to go for a couple of hours, and will be able to get in some good long practicing.....I am super excited!! I am so thankful for our similarities and that we our able to spend some quality time together.

Me and Karlie took this picture yesterday, the bush behind is a bumblebee attraction, so thankfully no humans were harmed in the capturing of this photo :-)

So long for now....

Morning Blessings

2009-05-16T20:32:00.005-04:00

The Lord inspired me to write today so here it is!!!

Morning Blessings

As morning rays peek through the clouds and the sweet smell of lilacs fills the air, what could say good morning like a short stroll through the avenue. No faces to see, because its too early, no voices to hear, because all are still sleeping; nothing could be finer than a walk through the neighborhood with your furry friend. As you ponder many thoughts, and utter several words he looks you in the eye, and seems as though he understands. His curious eyes and wrinkled expressions, seems to make you feel like someone cares. Even though the Lord hears you always and cares for you no matter what, the joy you see through your furry friend is as if the Lord is sending His love through His little creature. As you continue walking the path you realize the Lord is everywhere; and sends little blessings through His botanical aromas, and sparkling sunbeams to get you through each day. As dawn breaks, nothing could be finer than to know that He cares for you .

~~~~~~~ Spring Break!

2009-03-28T19:00:00.012-04:00

Spring break has come to an end, and I leave tomorrow after services, -so happy that Easter break isn't far off, and things should fly by after that, well I am hoping anyway.

I had an awesome time over the weekend especially at the ladies fellowship with guest speaker Mrs. Francie Taylor. She was such a blessing, I am very grateful that the Lord enabled me to be a part of it. I got in a little over 40 hrs. at work, and was able to be home Thurs.-Sun. It was nice spending time back home. We did some shopping, and me and my sister got our haircut, (I got an actual cut), usually mama does the trimming but I got some layers this time. Not sure if I like the haircut yet, the side bangs are bothersome, I can tolerate them better if I hairspray them in place though!! I like the layers, I don't have to do much to make it look nice, which is a plus!

Well I have got to get ready for the "big day" tomorrow. Please keep me in your prayers. Miss you...

College girls

2008-12-26T16:56:00.011-05:00

Here are some pictures of me and some friends at college....

Kendra and Rachel both live about 45 minutes away from where I live! Janicqua lives in PA.

Amber, Me, Kendra (right to left)

Me, and Jenicqua

Rachel and Me

Home again, at last

2008-12-26T16:11:00.009-05:00

Hi Everyone!!!!

So good to be back home for about month!!! I never realized how much I would miss everyone here; I am so glad to be back at Victory! "Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee." -Psalm 67:3

I can't believe that 2009 is approaching. I can't wait for the New Years Eve service on wed night, it is going to be so fun, and quite interesting as well. I am glad to have finished my first semester and am anxious to finish this next one, and be home for the summer. I have learned so much being in school and I am so thankful for everyones prayers.

I still don't know exactly what the Lord would have me do, but I feel that I am called to be in the ministry, just don't know what for sure.

I am also enjoying seeing Kujo, I have missed him so much. Whenever I come back he seems so different at first, but I quickly realize it is just that it has been so long without seeing him. Sometimes it is awkward just holding his leash:-) After all I would normally walk 35+ dogs everyday back to the kennel, (not to mention walking him daily). Change.... it's tough:-)

This verse especially, has been an encouragement to me, and I hope it will be to you as well.

Psalm 145:15 says: "The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season".

Psalm 56:4 In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me. How true these verses are!

November!

2008-11-06T16:14:00.005-05:00

I can hardly believe that Thanksgiving is almost here!

I am home this weekend because college choir is traveling and there aren't many students left in the college, so our Thurs. and Fri. classes are cancelled.

I cant believe how much things are changing in my life, it's really hard being away from home, but I am thankful to be close enough to come home occasionally.

Some verses that have been really helpful and encouraging to me are Ps. 27:14 "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart:wait, I say, on the LORD" Ps. 104:27 "These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat in due season".

I never really realized fully how hard it truly is to wait upon the Lord, I have heard many people say it, but this year I am learning truly how hard it is.

I was so glad to see Pastor and Mrs. for the volleyball tournaments this past weekend, and I was thankful to spend time with them and another family from church. Pastor will be coming back on the 17th for chapel, he didn't end up doing it this week (like originally planned), so that will be exciting :-)

College life...

2008-10-20T16:36:00.004-04:00

Hi Everyone!!! Sorry I haven't kept up with my blog, I am not permitted to go on the website at school.

Hmmm.... where to start-I am learning so much, I am especially learning how to deal with people. I am thankful that the Lord has given me opportunities to help encourage some of the girls who are having difficulties in their lives, and just take time to pray with them.

Something amazing that the Lord has really shown me is that I need to be more "prepared", on Saturday night I had been asked to play a special for chapel on Mon., I had been preparing to play in chapel sometime in the next couple of weeks, -but at the last minute, I thought??- then quickly agreed to do it, and he just opened the door right then, and it it went very well.

I have mid-terms this week and I just finished 2 of the bible courses, so I should just have English now. I am very eager to be back home for the holidays!

I cannot wait until Pastor and Mrs. Messer come for chapel in Nov. I am very anxious to see them, and hear the message that is laid on Pastor's heart.

I have to get going now but, please feel free to post! Mallorie

News...

2008-07-15T16:17:00.002-04:00

Well I recently found out Melanie will be going to GoldenState college this year. I dont really know any details other than it is the Lord's will, and I know she had a strong desire to go there. But I know we will both learn so much this year, and please keep praying for us.

Picture's

2008-07-03T18:43:00.012-04:00

Here are som pictures of the dogs... I finally got some time to put them up :-)

"The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail instead of his tongue."-Unknown

Posing for a picture!

They all really love each other...can you tell? :-)

Yoshi

2008-06-20T18:05:00.002-04:00

Well after how many months, we have finally (I think) decided to name the puppy Yoshi. I think that after such a long time of being unsure, and calling him "puppy", Yoshi is fitting much better, I think partly because they both end with that E sound which we've been calling him by.

I will try and put some pictures up shortly.

Summer weather

2008-06-08T07:01:00.004-04:00

Summer weather is here, wow it was so hot the other day, and continuing as it seems, I cant wait until fall approaches again!!!
I am so excited, Mel told me on Wed. that she will be going to New England Baptist, she wasn't sure after going to Golden State, I am so happy that it is the Lord's will. I think that he was testing me on that as well, to see truly what my reason for going was, either way I was going, it was just a little disappointing if she didn't.
I did a little college shopping on Wed. it was so much fun! I still need to buy lots more though.
I have sent in all my paperwork but found out that I am going to have to get high school transcripts.
See you later...

College

2008-05-25T06:30:00.002-04:00

I talked to Rebecca Powell,from NEBC and she said I just need to get some kind of proof that I graduated high-school, but all my other forms are good to go. We talked with the lady who evaluates us and she is going to write up somthing for me, that is great!!!! I am so thankful that the Lord is working everything out :-) I am so excited to se what he has for me.

Senior Graduation

2008-05-24T17:13:00.005-04:00

What an amazing time!

All the seniors' had excellent speeches, ( I really loved Mel's valedictorian speech). What a great time of fellowship afterwards! So thankful that the Lord allowed me to have the time off from work to be there.

God's hand in our lives

2008-05-19T18:03:00.006-04:00

So excited!! I can't believe what the Lord is doing in our church family and many others I talk with, it's so amazing, but it's also sad to know that people will be leaving :-(
I am almost set for college just need to send in my health form, and check on what else is needed to do to be accepted. Unfortunately I didn't pass the GED, I am hoping that they don't require it. Either way I will finish it....eventually.
I am so excited about the "Deaf Ministry", I hope that they will be having another course for "Sign Language" when I am back home, since I think this one will be in the fall, and I wont be here then. I also wanted to say what a great time it was fellowshipping with everyone on Sunday, can't wait to do it again!

Well I guess that is all for know....

GED, an opportunity

2008-04-30T06:14:00.007-04:00

Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the LORD: for great is the glory of the LORD! Psalm 138:5

I had my GED Mon./Tues. it went well, I am so very thankful that I was able to talk to the two ladies at my table, very sweet women, I got to hand out tracts to both of them, and invited them to church, they seemed thankful. Please keep praying that I get a passable score, and for the two ladies there. I am thankful to have had that opportunity. Praise the Lord!
I know God was helping me through the test, especially when I started Language arts, and the second subject was on dogs!! Thank you all for your prayers.

Mallorie

A devotion...

2008-04-20T07:06:00.004-04:00

Here is a daily devotion from "My Utmost for His Highest" .

CAN A SAINT FALSELY ACCUSE GOD?
"All the promises of God in Him are yes, and in Him Amen..." 2 Corinthians 1:20
Jesus' parable of the talents recorded in Matthew 25:14-30 was a warning that it is possible for us to misjudge our capacity. This parable has nothing to do with natural gifts and abilities, but relates to the gift of the Holy Spirit as He was given at Pentecost. We must never measure our spiritual capacity on the basis of our education or our intellect; our capacity in spiritual things is measured by the promises of God. If we get less than God wants us to have, we will falsely accuse Him as the servant falsely accused his master: "You expect more than You give me power to do; You demand too much of me, I cannot stand true to You where I am placed." When it is a question of God's Almighty Spirit, never say "I can't." Never let the limitation of natural ability come in. If we have received the Holy Spirit, God expects the work of the Holy Spirit to be manifested in us.
The servant justified himself in everything he did and condemned his lord on every point - "Your demand is out of all proportion to what you give." Have we been slandering God by daring to worry when He has said: "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you"? Worrying means exactly what this servant implied - "I know You mean to leave me in the lurch." The person who is lazy naturally is always captious - "I haven't had a decent chance," and the one who is lazy spiritually is captious with God. Lazy people always strike out on an independent line.
Never forget that our capacity in spiritual matters is measured by the promises of God. Is God able to fulfil His promises? Our answer depends on whether we have received the Holy Spirit.

Puppy!

2008-04-10T05:51:00.006-04:00

Ciao!

We finally got the long awaited pug puppy, we got him April 1st he is doing great, finally starting to play with the other two, he was scared of Kujo at first, but they are playing together now. He was 4.5lbs on April 2nd! He is very playful! We are still trying to come up with a name for him, other than puppy!! Mrs. Messer suggested kitty :-) That would be pretty funny!!!
We were originally thinking Yoshi, but are still not sure if we like it enough, I personally don't think it really suits him.
Here are some of the pics.

Nap time....ZZzzz

I like Opie's toys too

Bath time!

Finally updating

2008-04-10T05:47:00.003-04:00

Sorry for not updating sooner.
What nice weather it has been, Kujo has been having a blast!
I signed up for the GED it will be April 28-29. Please keep that in your prayers :-)

Today

2008-03-15T19:52:00.004-04:00

Well I took the test today.... not feeling so good about it, but the Lord can do anything, and seeing how it's his will for me to go to college than I am sure he will help me. I really didn't know much in the math section, but I didn't do that bad (I don't think) in the english section.
Now I have to prepare for the GED.... boy is this stuff stressful though!! I think I was more nervous just being in a public school for the first time. I hope I wont have to go back, at least for testing.
Please remember Mel's testing in May. I am sure she will do great!!! But please pray for her :-)
Thank you all for your prayers, they are appreciated :-) Talk to you later...

SAT's

2008-03-10T19:17:00.003-04:00

I got news that the SAT date is this Sat. the 15th, I am really nervous.

I have to set a date for the GED now! The prep tests are on Monday nights and Wednesday mornings, so I have to figure out what I am going to do for that.

Thank you all for your prayers and please continue to pray that Saturday goes well too, I don't know if Melanie will be able to go because she canceled and signed-up for the May date, but I did give her the phone number to contact them and see about changing it, I hope she can, if it be the Lord's will.

I pray that she is feeling much better, as well as Pastor Messer, and all of those where were not feeling well, they we're very much missed.

Baptist...

2008-03-04T05:36:00.004-05:00

On Sunday March 2, 2008 I was re-baptized as a "Baptist", my 1st baptism was at a Nazarene church, and I was baptized with their beliefs, but after being here at Victory Baptist I believe that I am a Baptist, and now, I know I am.
I am so glad being a part of this church family!

Snow day!

2008-03-02T06:11:00.002-05:00

What a beautiful snow storm it was yesterday!
Unfortunatly the SAT testing was postponed (not sure when), God is so amazing, I am not sure but Melanie might be able to re sign-up because of the change... I really hope she can go w/me!
Thank you all for your continual prayers, still don't know much about what happened to Matthew, but I saw him a last week and he seems very well.
Talk to you later.....

Chocolate...

2008-02-17T06:45:00.003-05:00

We had a Chocolate Extravaganza at church last night.... there was SO MUCH CHOCOLATE, from eclairs to toffee and chocolate p.b. cake (smothered with crushed p.b. cups).
There will be leftovers tonight after the evening service (6:00pm), yummy!!!

Love this chapter!

2008-02-17T06:30:00.004-05:00

Here's a chapter I read and really enjoyed...... thought I'd share :-)

James 2:1-26
1My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.
2For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment;
3And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:
4Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?
5Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?
6But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?
7Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?
8If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:
9But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.
10For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.
11For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.
12So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.
13For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.
14What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
15If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,
16And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?
17Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
18Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
19Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
20But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
21Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
22Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?
23And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.
24Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
25Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?
26For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

More info

2008-02-13T06:27:00.002-05:00

Hey there!
I just got news that Kim's son was having tumors removed from his legs, so please be praying for him. I will try to update when I get more information.
As always thank you for your prayers.

Kujo's 1st. Birthday!!

2008-02-09T17:55:00.001-05:00

Today is Kujo's 1st. birthday, I can't believe I've had him almost a year already, and yet it seems like I've always had him :-)

I still wonder how big he's going to turn out, because from what I've heard he will continue to "fill out".

............................................ Now that's puppy love!!............

Back to work

2008-02-05T06:15:00.001-05:00

After a nice long week back to work I go....please pray that I would have a positive attitude about it, and that I would be an example to those around me.
Kujo is a bit more excited about it than I am, but I am happy that when we return home he will be exaughsted!!
Well I will see some of you on Saturday!

Birthday Pug!

2008-02-02T13:29:00.003-05:00

I can't believe it, today it is Opie's birthday, he is 4 already.

It's a cuddle-pug!

February...already!

2008-02-01T08:27:00.000-05:00

Mama has been home for a couple days now, and is feeling pretty good considering.
She took her band-aid's off yesterday morning, she still has some dissolvable butterfly-type stickies on, so they aren't completely open.
She is feeling so much better that she is actually going to cook Chili for the "Chili Chill Out" tomorrow, (with some help, of course) I am a stir fanatic, anything that needs to be stirred I will be right beside it :-)

Also, could you please be praying for my friend Kim, her dog had bloat which is quite serious, and her son went in for surgery a couple weeks ago (not sure for what), but he is only about 8 yrs. I e-mailed her but she is usually really busy so she hasn't replied yet. I will update if I find out anymore info on the situation. Thank you very much!

Prayer

2008-01-28T07:14:00.000-05:00

Update: 10:15pm
Mama is doing fine, she came out of recovery at approx. 9:00am and got to her room around 12:00pm, she said she was a little clueless, because no one really came to explain anything to her, so she really didn't know anything except that the opperation went ok. Finally a nurse came in and put curculation cuffs on her legs, so she asked him if she could have some ice chips, he said that she could, and he asked her if she was cold (because the other nurses wrapped her head all up in blankets) and she said no, and asked if she could remove the blankets, and he said yes, it just seemed as though no one was taking any initiative there.
We visited her around 6:30pm and she said she still wasn't in any major pain, she did feel the "pressure" when full, which is regular for Lap-Band patients. Hopefully she can get a good nights sleep.
She should be home around noon tomorrow. Thank you for your prayers!

My mother has gone in for surgery today, it's for 7:30am. She is having the Lap-Band put in.
I am so excited for her, she has tried so MANY diets, but can never keep the weight off. I told her last night to just think she'll only be skinnier from here on. Hallelujah!
She will be very much missed today! I have my vacation until next Monday, so this will be a very nice week.
Yesterday, I signed-up for my SAT's they are on March 1st. Lord willing I will get a "passable score" :-) I am so thankful that the Lord provided Melanie to accompany me, we were both really nervous about going to a public school alone.
Well until another day, farewell!

Musically speaking :-)

2008-01-23T11:49:00.000-05:00

Hi all!
Sorry it's been a while posting....

While watching a tv show last night, I discovered a new and amazing instrument, it sounds almost like the bagpipes, it's called a "Hurdy-Gurdy" which I think I may have heard of before, but never saw/heard one before.

You can listen and learn more about it here: http://www.hotpipes.com/hgchant.html

I am not sure if I will have to have a secondary instrument at college, but I would really like to learn another, although I really am not sure which one to pick, I really like the Cello and Double Bass, I also love harpsichord, (but I think it would be too expensive for that).

I don't know I'll see what God wants for me.

I am really looking forward to learning more about music and theory... fun!!

Fellowship in the Spirit!

2008-01-06T06:53:00.000-05:00

I am so excited, it is Sunday, the Lord's day! Off to church for another amazing sermon, then out with Melanie, lots of fun there, and then back to church for yet one more amazing sermon!
Me and Melanie have been waiting for about a month to get together to talk about college, we haven't been able to talk much due to the very busy Christmas season!
I am so glad that I have a blog now, it will be really nice when I am away at college.
Well I better go eat breakfast now, I am spending just a little to much time on this "blog".

My dear friend, and our story

2008-01-03T14:50:00.000-05:00

Carolyn and I have never met in person, she saw a post of mine on Stringworks two years ago, and wrote me, and we have been friends ever since. We share so many similarities, and both strive to serve the Lord as best as possible, (even though we all make mistakes).

Maybe if it be God's will we can meet in person someday!

Carolyn shares a love for music and plays violin, harp, and piano, she also went through the Suzuki method, and teaches violin.

In April 2006 Carolyn started getting extremely bad headaches, and went to doctor after doctor, and had lots of tests, bloodwork, you name it, finally after 14 long months she was cured. She had something called an "Atlas Reset", (read more about the procedure here http://www.atlasprofilax.ch/eng/index.php) She "gives all the glory and honor to our dear Lord", for the whole experience, and is currently taking a 9 mo."Massage course". Through all her enduring, she has found God's plan for her life. It is so amazing to hear what God does, and is doing in others lives :-)

She has worked with that same Doctor who did the procedure on her, and helped others with similar problems.

Antonio Vivaldi

2008-01-02T09:13:00.000-05:00

Vivaldi is one of my all time favorites.

Antonio Vivaldi (1678-1741), a towering figure of the late Italian baroque, was the son of a violinist at St. Mark's Cathedral in Venice. He became a priest, but left the ministry after about a year because of poor health; for most of his life, he was a violin teacher, composer, and conductor at a Venetian music school for orphaned and illegitimate girls. It was for the school's all-female orchestra--considered one of the best in Italy--that he composed many of his finest works. Though he was famous and influential as a virtuoso violinist and a composer, his popularity waned shortly before his death in 1741; he died in poverty and was almost forgotten until the baroque revival of the 1940s and 1950s.
Vivaldi is best know for his 450 or so concerti grossi and solo concertos ( a solo concerto is a piece for a single soloist and an orchestra). He exploited the resources of the violin and many other instruments and is noted for fast movements with vigorous, tuneful themes and impassioned, lyrical slow movements.
Vivaldi's most popular work is the concerto La Primavera (Spring) from The Four Seasons, a set of four solo concertos for violin, string orchestra, and basso continuo. Each of these concertos depicts sounds and events associated with one of the seasons, such as the bird songs heard in spring and the gentle breezes characteristic of summer. The descriptive effects in the music correspond to images and ideas found in the sonnets that preface each of the four concertos. To make his intentions absolutely clear, Vivaldi placed lines from the poems at the appropriate passages in the musical score and even added such descriptive labels as the sleeping goatherd and the barking dog. The Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter concertos are examples of baroque program music, or instrumental music associated with a story, poem, idea, or scene. They are forerunners of the more elaborate program music that developed during the romantic period.
Like most of Vivaldi's concertos, Spring has three movements: (1) fast, (2) slow, (3) fast. Both the first movement and the last are ritornello form.

My Niece's

2008-01-01T15:57:00.002-05:00

Meet my two nieces Jordynn 2 1/2 & Hailey 8 mos.

Here is Hailey with Kujo, she's wont be afraid of dogs that's for sure!

This is Jordynn, the little munchkin, she loves having her picture taken!

Jordynn is really starting to talk a lot more now - and jabber!!! Hailey just creeps around, still hasn't learned to crawl, lazy girl!

Meet Kujo

2008-01-01T12:36:00.002-05:00

Here is "Kujo" at 16 wks. He was born on February 9, 2007. He weighed only 20 lbs!

He was flown in from Oklahoma to Massachusetts, when he arrived I took him out of his crate and he was really shy, but by the time he got home and met his friends (Nemo, shown, and Opie) he warmed up quite a bit. As of August we lost Nemo very unexpectedly at 7 mos. old.

It was SO sad, and hard for all of us, Kujo was 7 months also, he was still young enough not to fully understand what happened.

We are planning to get another pug puppy this spring.

from the front, Kujo, Opie, Nemo

Kujo & Nemo, taking a snooze :-)

Here is Kujo now enjoying his first snow! He weighs about 55 lbs. now, and I am hoping he wont get much bigger, because he is already a big lap dog.