Our Arizona Christmas....

Isnt this a beautiful tree!!? Look at all those gifts!

Well........... as you can tell from the title of this post... we are in Arizona! We are spending our Christmas with Ken's family. It has been wonderful seeing them all!!!
The weather has been great! A bit rainy today.. but didnt seem to stop the guys from going golfing... :)
Patrick got to go to his first real live Basketball Game. Grandpa Carlton took him to see Arizona Wildcats vs Kansas Jayhawks. Patrick had a GREAT time!
Today is laundry day for me.... need to get our clothes ready for our trip tomorrow to go see Ken's grandparents in LasVegas.
The boys got all kinds of goodies for Christmas ... happy campers are they!
Grandma and Grandpa spoiled them pretty good!
So far this has been a great trip... the drive was good. Well... for me and the boys we just rode... Ken did all the "driving" but we did make two stops to sleep. I'm just not a good "trip driver".... makes me nervous.... so Ken has to do all the driving. We stayed in very nice Hotels... in very nice suites.... got good sleep and back on the road until we made it here! Ken kept calling out the temperature as we got closer ... and it got warmer. We left -6* and got here to 70*
Well.... I need to get back to my laundry. I'm crocheting while I tend to laundry... working on creating a teddy bear. Its my own pattern.... so I hope it comes out nice... I would like to use it for a toy drive charity I want to donate to... and to make for my grandbabies for next Christmas.
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"...And now, Lord, what do I wait for and expect? My hope and expectation are in You..."
Psalm 39: 7
Our hope and expectation should only be in the Lord. He is the only one in this world that is stable and sure. Everything else is on shaky ground. It’s sometimes hard to have hope, while everything around us seems to crumble, or is uncertain. The Lord is our pillar. He is our fortress. He cannot be shaken, and can be trusted completely. If you have days of feeling lost ... lost hope... in maybe the simplest of things... to what seem to be the most complicated... put your hope in Jesus. He won’t let you down. When hope is placed in Jesus Christ we have more meaning to our lives!

God Bless!!!

hugs and love,
.::Tam::.

**A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.
~ Proverbs 15:1**

Merry Christmas....

Loving Father, help us remember the birth of Jesus, that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and the worship of the wise men.
Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.
May the Christmas morning make us happy to be Thy children, and the Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

“Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)
The first Christmas gift was also the best—a Savior. Through Jesus’ birth and death and resurrection, He reconciled God and man. We no longer have to stagger under the burden of guilt and shame. Our hearts can be clear, because Jesus paid the penalty for our sins. We can be forgiven if we repent and believe in Him.
God’s love overcomes hatred and evil, and enables us to love one another. His kindness to us inspires us to be kind to one another. When we are grateful for His forgiveness, we are moved to forgive others. This spirit of love and kindness and forgiveness lasts not only for the Christmas season, but all life long for those who have accepted God’s gift.
This year as you give gifts to others, remember God’s greatest gift of all—Jesus. His love allows us to “share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and the worship of the wise men.”

Huge Hugs

Lots of Love

Bountiful Blessings,

.::Tam::.

**Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel, which means...God is with us.
~ Matthew 1:23**

Another year coming to an end...

People important to you, people unimportant to you, cross your life, touch it with love and carelessness, and move on. There are people that leave you, and you breathe a sigh of relief, and you wonder why you ever came in contact with them. There are people who leave, and you breathe a sigh of remorse, and wonder why they had to go and leave such a gaping hole.
Children leave parents, friends leave friends, acquaintances move on. You think on the many who have moved into your life with hazy memory. You look on those present and wonder.
I believe in God’s master plan for our lives.
People move in and out of each other’s lives, and each leaves his mark on the other. You find you are made up of bits and pieces of all who have touched your life, and you are more because of it, and you would be less if they had not touched you.
Pray to God that you can accept the bits and pieces in humility and wonder, and never question, and never regret.


Show and Share:

Knitted Stockings for my younger boys! It was time they had handmade 'mommy' stockings.

12 point round beanie for one of my granddaughters.

Gift set of bookmark with books... beanie with crossword puzzle books.

Family Gift set ........ Regular beanie...Snowman beanie... CoffeeCup Cozie... and a Pineapple scarf

PeanutBaby buddy toy.... for my youngest grandson.

My updated design for Coffee Cup Cozies. My boys call these CoffeeCup Coats. hehehee

This is a little tote purse for a little girl that Michael was Secret Santa to in his class! Its a knitted sleeve cover for a little canvas tote bag. So the bag is lined by the canvas tote.

God Bless you all.............. have a wonderfully Merry Christmas!!!

hugs...love...blessings,
.::Tam::.

**I cried out to the Lord, and He answered me from His holy mountain.
~ Psalm 3:4**

Freebie Friday........

CAKE MIX COOKIES

1 box any flavor cake mix

2 eggs

1 stick margarine or butter

Cream Margarine, add eggs and mix well. Stir in cake mix, add additional ingredients (chocolate chips, crushed candy bar etc.) Bake in a 350 degree oven on ungreased cookie sheet for approximately 8 to 10 mins. Great for a quick gift giving idea. Easy for kids to mix and they are delicious!

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Greater love has no one than this that he lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:3

When I was growing up there were many heroes to admire, such as Wonder Woman, Superman, and Lassie, the dog wonder. There was always someone to look up to, whether they were a family member, teacher, or a great fiction character. The people who we admired inspired us to be better, reach higher, and to achieve the impossible. Today, however, I can’t help but wonder, “Where have all the heroes gone?

Standing in line the other day with the end of my Christmas shopping...I was glancing at all the tabloids.... so many of those Hollywood stars have become heros in so many eyes.. and to see the sad stories of their drug filled... abusive lives... with constant run ins with the law .. is just heartbreaking.

I found myself questioning again, “Where have all the heroes gone? Isn’t there anyone we can look up to anymore?”You’ve probably experienced the same kind of let down at some point in your life. Perhaps it was a family member, a friend, or even a Christian leader who disappointed you and led to question, “Is there anyone I can truly trust?” Yesterday while reading a news story.. I was lead to a related older story....A family had been stranded on a rural, snow-covered road in Oregon after spending Thanksgiving with family. The father, attempting to save his family, set out on foot to look for help. The mother and her two young daughters stayed behind. To survive the cold, she burned all four tires, including the spare in the trunk of the car. She nibbled Thanksgiving leftovers and sustained her daughters with breast milk.Days later, an airplane flying above saw the father’s footprints in the snow and landed to investigate. They found and rescued the mother and the two young girls. Immediately a search began in the snow-covered mountains for the missing father, but they were too late. The cruel winter weather had claimed his life while he desperately tried to save the lives of his family.

I sat there and said to myself, “There’s a hero. Anyone who loves another in such a way that they are willing to give their own life to save another is a hero.” I also thought about those two little girls who will never have to question if there are any heroes left in the world. Their father will always be their hero.

You and I have been loved in the same way. We, too, have a hero. His name is Jesus Christ. Knowing that we live in a fallen, broken world, Christ left His heavenly home and all the comforts there. He took off His royal crown and laid aside His position to come and rescue us from sin and death. Why? Because of His love for us. In Christ’s heart you and I were worth dying for. Jesus willingly gave His life so that we may live. There is no greater love than that!

In this world people may disappoint us from time to time, but remember: We’ll always have the love of our heavenly Father, the greatest hero of all.

Dear Lord, thank You for loving me enough to lay down Your life so that I may have life as God intended. Teach me to live worthy of Your sacrifice. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Have a Fantastic Friday and a wonderful weekend

hugs....love...and blessings,

.::Tam::.

**Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.
~ Proverbs 4:23**

Snowy Tuesday Morning...........

God's blanket..................... isnt it beautiful?!
You know... for being only 6* this morning... I think because there wasn't any wind... it was rather nice out. The drive to school was slow and careful.... but fun to watch the snow fly at the windshield. The snow fall was a big reminder to me this morning that GOD is in control... control of ALL! This week... I have been a bit of a frustrated child stomping her feet because she didn't get her way.... I'm frustrated because although Michael's protein levels are High... the edema has shown itself....he has aches and pains and the doctors say he is in relapse.... I know without a doubt in my head or my heart that he is healed... all these signs and tests are tricks and lies from Satan. I know God has healed Michael. So some of my frustration is ... I know many will look at me as if I have lost my mind... and why has God left me only the one feeling this way? I mean... Praise God... He has given us doctors and medicines to help .... I am so thankful for the 10 extra years I got with my daddy because of doctors... their knowledge and medicines. But for some reason... this is so different for me. I totally trust that God has healed Michael. And if Michael is healed... why has God not stopped us from starting Michael on prednizone? Why did God not show everyone else Michael is fine through the blood tests last week? Am I crazy? Is my heart so full of WANT for Michael to be healed I have convinced myself it to be true? Was I suppose to insist on my feelings before hand and didnt? All this lead me to researching about being frustrated with God.... or being down right angry at Him. Maybe some of you are more than just frustrated and confused.
Have you ever shaken your fist at God over His answer to your prayers, or lack of answers?Have you grown angry with Him over the injustices in your life? If so, you’ll probably be able to know where the prophet Habakkuk was coming from. Gosh.. he lived roughly 600 years before Christ..... right? His book of the Bible starts right off with this complaint: “How long, O Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save me. Why do you make me look at injustice? Why do you tolerate wrong?” (Hab.1:2-3). God answered Habakkuk by telling him to be patient and to watch..... that He will do amazing things and bring in justice....but only in His timing.
Passionate....honest.....gut-level....even angry prayers have been recorded through out the Bible. Habakkuk wasn’t the only one to complain. Moses....Gideon...and Elijah all questioned God. Job even cursed the day God made him and said, “I loathe my very life; therefore I will give free rein to my complaint and speak out in the bitterness of my soul. I will say to God, ‘Do not condemn me, but tell me what charges you have against me. Does it please you to oppress me, to spurn the work of your hands...?’” (Job 10:1-3). In his anguish, Job accused God of afflicting people for no reason (Job 9:17), overwhelming them with misery (Job 9:18), not caring about injustice (Job 9:22, 24), and laughing at the pain of the innocent (Job 9:22).
Of course these accusations are not the case.... but it is true that is how we often feel in times of severe suffering or testing. God knows our deepest thoughts and feelings, so it’s nonsense to think we can hide them from Him. Better to come clean with how we really feel, get it off our chest in prayer, and hopefully clear the way to hear and receive God’s reply or comfort. I’ve complained to God in the past for allowing my loved ones to die or fall deep into sin, for allowing things to be taken from me, for allowing my reputation to be unfairly tarnished, for allowing physical suffering in my body, or for not allowing what I felt I deserved. I have found the best thing I can do is honestly take these feelings to God where they can be traded for His perspective and His comforting assurance. Though God may not always change my circumstances the way I want Him to, He can and does change my perspective on those circumstances and enables me to endure them. God listens when we complain about injustice. He hates seeing the unrighteous prosper, mostly when it’s at the hands of the innocent, as much as we do. He understands when we feel shortchanged or opposed. Read through the gospel accounts of Jesus’ life and you’ll be see just how much Jesus can relate to undeserved opposition. Be honest before God in prayer today. While holding a degree of holy respect for Him and thankfulness for His saving grace, pour out the good, the bad and the ugly of your feelings. Just like Habakkuk, Job and others discovered, God can handle your intense emotions and questions. Though He rarely explains Himself fully to us – perhaps because we can’t fully understand this side of eternity – He does flood us with His power, love and peace when we come humbly and honestly before Him and pour out our heart.
Man is my heart full too............... guess I need to start getting things off my chest.

Dear Lord, it’s hard for me to understand Your ways. It’s hard for me to overlook offenses. It’s hard for me to deal graciously with the difficult situations or people in my life, and sometimes I grow more frustrated with You for allowing them into my life. But I don’t want to be a bitter or miserable person. I dont want to be upset with you or anyone. I want to do as you command... Love you with all my heart .... my soul and my mind ...and to love my neighbors as I do myself. Help me to see through Your eyes, and to endure all that You allow into my life, with Your grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Well........... with that said........... its time for a little show and share. I had participated in a Secret Santa swap... and this is what my Secret Santa Partner sent me.......... Isnt she beautiful? I just love her! I couldnt have gotten anything better! Thank you Sissie... from the bottom of my heart................ She's perfect!

Okay kids.... you know the routine............ I'm off to get some crocheting done before I have to trudge the snow to get my babies from school.

You all have a GREAT day!

Stay warm.

hugs... love and blessings,

.::Tam::.

**“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6 **

Prayers Please...

Well....... the doctors have officially labeled Michael in relapse. He's been put back on prednizone with the expectations of remission.

I prayed hard for this not to be the answer... that God would heal my baby completely. And I know I had so many of you... my wonderful cyber friends... and family praying right along with me... but I could never shake the feeling I was alone. In the end.. God said, "not today Tammy" So... we move forward with the instructions from the doctors and continue to pray for Michael... that the prednizone does its job and he will be back in remission. I have to be honest and tell you all... I'm quite sad at this decision. I haven't lost my love and trust for my Father in heaven.... but as any child who doesn't get there wish... I'm just really bummed.... and still left feeling alone. All the signs were there... the high protein levels... the edema... upset tummy... but I never let that move me.... I was so confident that God was going to just heal him. I'm still confident... I guess I wasnt expecting it to not be today.

It certainly didnt help me feel any better that there is still this DUMB family issue going on. An invitation to the boys basketball game and Christmas programs was completely ignored AGAIN. So.. guess you could say... yesterday .. wasnt one of my better days. Forgive my venting... but I know thats what friends and family are for..... and I thank you for being here!

Yesterday while driving the boys to school.... as we saw the sun rise... we noticed how first of all beautiful it was... how the sky took on a yellow orange glow... the clouds seem to be so clearly defined with the sun outlining them.... but we also noticed our own shadow. As we drove .. the van cast a shadow on the field next to us. It was so neat to see how one minute the shadow was right next to us... the next... it had drifted off far into the recently harvested corn field. We would be huge.. right next to ourselves... and tiny... far away. We played with the shadow all the way to school. After dropping the boys off... the ride home.... I thought of nothing but our fun all the way to school. This morning as we took our drive ... even thought the sun was up... the clouds had it covered enough... that it wasnt casting a shadow of the van. But we did get to enjoy a Beautiful moon this morning. With the sun hidden... we were able to see it so clearly and almost close enough to touch. Well.. my ride home this morning... was filled with thoughts of yesterdays ride and this mornings ride. So much that God shows us and we ignore. So many lessons He tries to teach us .. .but we dont really listen. He tries to show us He is ALWAYS right there with us.......... no matter what... and we just wont turn around and look.

The shadows from the van............... the van is God! We are the shadow. The van stays firm... the shadow travels near and far. Do you see this? God never changes... we do. We walk close to Him one minute and then let satan and the world pull us away. If we walk long enough at a distance... its harder to find our way back. Its okay to trip and fall once in a while... but dont walk away from God.................... Stay Close!!! He and only He will lead you through a life of joy.... here and after.

The sight of the moon............ God is the sun.......... we're the moon. With the sun being hidden by the clouds.. all thats seen is the moon... clear and bold. Can you see where I'm going with this one? We hide God from ourselves or others and all that is seen is us. The sun comes out... and although the moon isn't as bold and clear... you can still see it..... you can now almost see right though it. The sun shines right through it while defining the outline of it. You dont lose sight of the moon.. you see it with the sun! We let God shine through us... imagine what others will see!!!! Imagine what we can do with God in us. The peace.. the joy... the love... the confident dreams of walking the golden streets of Heaven one day. Walk with God in this life on earth ... and you'll walk with Him forever in heaven. Let Him shine through you...onto others!

I do hope what I'm trying to write is making sense............ My head is full of things I want to share... while satan is trying to cloud my head with doubts... worry and frustration.

God is everywhere.. He is always with us... through our good days and out tough days.

Well............ my crochet projects arent going to crochet themselves.... so ... I'm off to create carefully placed knots in yarn that will resemble a stocking cap! :)

have a terrific today and a wonderful weekend.

hugs....love and blessings to you all!!!

.::Tam::.

**So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord!
~ Psalm 31:24**

Gifts...........

what do you do with them?
You get a gift from someone... do you like it? do you want it? do you use it? As I was taking pictures of the fun stuff I have made lately... it dawned on me that all these things here were made with yarn my Aunt had given me while visiting for Thanksgiving. I was really rather proud of myself.... I was getting use of a gift. The best part... I turned the gift I got into gifts for others............. wow.. huh?

This is a beanie I made for one of my granddaughters......... I think I will add a flower to it.

This is a Baby Blanket made for the Elementary School Librarian's new grandbaby. Michael jumped in the van after school on Friday... and with excitement told me that Mrs. Madsen is a new Grandma. Well.. he didn't ask... but I knew that if he had a gift to give her when they went back to school after the weekend... he would be tickled. So... yup... with yarn gifted to me... 4.5 hours of my time... Michael and David took this gift.

This is a SeaShell Scarf... I made from yet more yarn gifted to me by my Aunt.

Sea Shell Scarf

Remember in a previous post ... I shared a Pineapple Scarf.............. that one and this one ... both from gifted yarn.

Pineapple Scarf

While in prayer this morning.... I kept interrupting myself with thoughts of how cool it was that I had made so many gifts for others through the gift of yarn that was given me. I was starting to get frustrated with myself when I realized God was trying to show me something. Yes.. I was proud of myself for using the gift I was given. And God was also. What He wanted to know is.... do I use the gifts He gives me?

The gift of life. "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Rom. 6:23).

The gift of spiritual understanding. "And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true" (1 John 5:20).

The gift of faith. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast" (Eph. 2:8-9).
The gift of grace. "I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ" (1 Cor. 1:4).
The gift of Healing. "Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the miracles themselves. I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father." (John 14:11-12)

I could go on and on... but I think you get the picture. All these gifts and many more.... what do we do with them? Do we like them? Do we want them? Do we use them?

He gives these things to all of us. What we chose to do with them is up to us. How sad that we tuck our Father's gifts away and not enjoy them. I mean think about it... if I made a blanket for someone ... and they simply tucked it away in a closet of other blankets.. never to use it... I would be sad. I want them to use it.. use it till it falls apart. That's what the gift was intended for. Now think about this for a minute... Many will go to hell because they don't want the free gift of eternal life. Many will live their lives sick and die because they wont use the gift of healing. Many will live their lives in fear... with worry because they don't like to use the gift of faith by being patient.

So as I continued to pray............. I prayed knowing I have these gifts... I took them out of the closet I had tucked them away in ......... and Prayed that God would help me learn more about them.. and use them properly... and to His Glory.

God is good................. He DOES answer prayers!!!

hugs... love and blessings,

.::Tam::.

**But I am trusting you, O Lord, saying, "You are my God!"
Psalm 31:14 **

Storm the Gates of Heaven .....

with prayer for Michael.... Please!
For the last 3 years we have been fighting Satan over this issue of Michael being diagnosed with Nephrotic Syndrome. Satan is at it again... Michael's protein levels are very high (not good)... and he's shown signs of edema....(not good) The lies and evil tricks Satan has been placing in our way with Michael's health has been a rollercoaster ride I haven't had any fun on. I'm Done and I'm getting off!
Satan ... your lies and tricks will work NO MORE! I wont be caught in your web of distraction and destruction!!! My Father in Heaven.. Lord our God ... is where the TRUTH is........ and I will stand firm there!!
The Truth is ... God heals. The Truth is ...... God did not make Michael sick. The Truth is...God answers prayers... The Truth is... we are God's Children... Not Satans friends!
God wants us to pray to him for help.
In Luke 18:1 Jesus told his disciples that they "should always pray and not give up." and then Jesus asked "...will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night?"
Pray to God from your heart for healing. Don't stop. Don't give up. God wants us to ask him for help. He loves us.
Over 1/4 of the Gospel is about the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus taught his disciples how to pray and heal. He sent them to carry on his work. Wouldn't Jesus want his followers (us) to pray for healing today?
The Bible actually gives us some directions on how to pray for healing. In James 5:14-15 we are told: "Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15) And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven." and in James 5:16 we are asked to "confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed." and then told that "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." In Mark 11:23-25 Jesus further instructs to forgive when we pray "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, `Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24) Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25) And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
In Matthew 17:19-20 when he said "I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, `Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
So............. I'm reaching out to all my cyber friends/brothers and sisters.
Please................. Prayer for healing over Michael.
Dont just say it... Do it ... and dont stop!
Thank you and God Bless you all!
Huge cyber Hugs............

.::Tam::.

**Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise. Hebrews 10:23**

Faith... Fun...& Freebies.......

"By Faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land…” Hebrews 11:29

I love the Word of God…and how it is truly alive and active when we choose to get into it and allow it to transform our hearts. But this particular scripture has been humorous to me. I thought, “For crying out loud, how much faith could it take to cross the Red Sea? You’ve already seen God’s might by way of parting it! The Egyptians are CHASING YOU, the only common sense thing to do is RUN ACROSS the sea through the path that God has created…or be slain by the Egyptians, or taken captive again! What kind of faith does it take to cross in those circumstances?” Like I said... I found it to be funny... until God made it real to me by relating it to my life. This past year God has called me to *step out* in a variety of ways in my life. This has been uncomfortable. Family issues... health issues with my son... *well and even myself at points*... and financial issues. I had a choice to make. I either had to stay where I was, or cross the Sea. To stay where I was and am means that I am not being an obedient child. There’s a grand reward in obedience. I know that crossing the sea is the way to go. I know its best for me.... I attempt to cross several times... but still seem to never make it all the way across.
Put yourself in the place of the Israelites. Picture yourself standing by the Red Sea. The Egyptians are hot on your trail. Moses raises the staff and the waters part. You’re standing on the shore looking at that. You have to run down a hill to the bottom of the sea..... Can you imagine how high the walls of water would be on each side of you? What about the noise of the wind holding the water back? You’d be thinking, “If I run into this....will the waters stay back until I get across? Can I make it before the waters come crashing back in?” “By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land.” Even when God is offering deliverance or a good path, it still takes faith to accept it! God is so faithful to us. He doesn’t stand on the other side of the sea shouting, “Hurry up and run!” He gently and lovingly stands by our side...takes our hand, and says..... “Beloved....don’t be afraid. I will not leave you nor forsake you, I have summoned you by name, you are mine. When you walk through the waters I will be with you, they will not sweep over you, for I am the Lord your God and I love you…together, let's cross the sea” (adapted from Isaiah 43). Is God calling you to “step out”? It could be getting more involved at church...a new ministry...a new job...learning to leave your worries to Him... sharing God with others...moving to a new area....any number of things. You know what it is... are you ready to cross that Sea with Faith.

Dear Lord....I seek You. Help me not to fear, but to be strong and courageous, standing on the promise that You will not leave me nor forsake me. Together we'll cross the sea. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Show and Share time...........
Well.......... check this out. While visiting Family over the Thanksgiving weekend.... I shared the 12 point round afghan pattern with my Aunt.. she had the idea of it already in her head.. and had attempted it once or twice.. but seemed to feel she was missing something in getting it completed. So after a few minutes of giving her some instructions.. it all fell into place.... and with that............. she let her creative talent take over. She made this lovely Poinsettia Tree Skirt for her daughter from that pattern. Isn't is just beautiful?!!
Coffee Cup Candle Cozy ornament
This comes from a pattern from a sweet lady on C'ville..... pinsandneedles.(freebie #1) Isn't this just too cute... if I do say so myself?!

Pineapple Scarf..........

This pattern came from another talented lady.... mylittlecitygirl (freebie #2)

I had only a bit of this yellow yarn and thought I was only going to be able to get a few pineapples done to practice the pattern... but before I knew it.... I had 6 pineapples done ... yarn gone ... and scarf a good length to actually be a gift. Thank you Alla for the pattern.

These next 2 pics are 12 point round dish cloths drawn up around a 3oz. jar candles. With all the crocheting...sharing of ideas and patterns with my Aunt... I came away with this idea for a gift. Now wouldn't this be a nice little gift for a teacher?

Well................thats it for me today.... I'm off to crochet and knit till my fingers are numb!

Have a Fantastic Friday... and a Wonderful Weekend!

God Bless you all......

Hugs & Love,

.::Tam::.

**Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you.
~ Psalm 9:10**

What God gives you...

There was a quote made in the movie Evan Almighty that we had watched this last weekend while on our Thanksgiving vacation.... it really made me think. God was talking to Evan’s wife and said, “Let me ask you something. If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient? If he prayed for courage, does God give him courage, or does he give him opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for the family to be closer, do you think God zaps them with warm fuzzy feelings, or does he give them opportunities to love each other?”
For my own added thoughts... if someone asks God for more Faith in Him... do you think He gives them Faith ... or does He provide a situation in their life for them to choose to believe His Word... to know in their hearts before they see it with their eyes. If we ask God for more trust... does He just give us trust... or does He place something in our lives that as disheartening as it is... it creates a decision time for us to Trust our Father in heaven and believe He knows what is best for us.
What God gives me...
Patience.... a family issue that to me has gone on WAY TOO LONG. But God has work to do... and I need to continue to be patient and wait on Him.
Courage.... Michael's protein levels are back up ... top of the chart. God is giving me an opportuntiy to be brave.
Closer family.... Though the family issue here at home... God gave us the opportunity to love family we don't normally visit. Which created a closer ... bigger family.
Faith.... I know in my heart before I see with my eyes.... changed hearts will come to my family here that will allow us to reconcile and forgive.
Trust.... with Michael's levels being high.... I am giving the opportunity to trust God with all my heart and soul ... that because He is a loving Father... He will take care of Michael and not let anything bad happen to him.... even though that may mean a little pain and discomfort in the short term. If I trust God with my own life... I have to trust Him with my son's.
Thankfulness.... through all this............ I am so very thankful that God loves me enough... that He would take time to lay out these lessons so individually just for me... to help me learn. My lessons are not anywhere near the same as lessons for anyone else. That alone should show us how much God loves us. He doesn't group lessons together and teach a class... He teaches us one on one. With all that we have done to and with our lives... He still has time to spend with us individually. Hmmm...... we should do the same for Him. Going to church is the best thing you can do for yourself to learn and be with others. But what about one on one time with God?
Try thanking Him for your trials............ you may be surprised at what He does with that.

Show and Share time......
This is just a couple beanies I made. One is about the size for small child/toddler (camouflage). The other is a preemie size (pink/purple stripe). I'm working on sizing right now with beanies... so that I'm ready for my added Challenge next year. :)

Have a wonderful Wednesday!
hugs... love... blessings,
.::Tam::.

Prayers for my family and Michael would be appreciated!

**O my people, trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge.
~ Psalm 62:8**

Learn how to be happy....

Praise the Lord............. What a Blessed Thanksgiving day and weekend!!!

“Happy Thanksgiving!” people wish me repeatedly this last week. Seems like everyone wishes for happiness. Everybody wants some. Many people pretend to have it …yet few seem to truly possess it. Why is happiness so hard to find?
The fourth chapter of Philippians. Look up and read verses six through thirteen.
Check out verse six, Paul gives three clear instructions for finding lasting happiness and contentment. He says:
1) do not worry about anything
2) pray about everything
3) thank God for everything
What if today we took this instruction to heart and put it into practice? What if today we decided not to worry about anything? What if when we found ourselves worrying, we stopped and handed the situation over to God in prayer? What if we then thanked Him for taking care of the issue? In fact, what if we spent most of our mental free time today thinking about what good care our awesome God takes of us? What would happen then?
Paul says in verse seven, if we begin to live this way we will experience amazing peace – a kind of peace we can’t even imagine. Peace that makes no earthly sense! This kind of peace is so powerful that it has a protective function on our hearts and minds – which only makes it easier for us to stop worrying and be thankful. That sounds like a state of happiness to me!
In verse eight Paul shares what to think about instead of our worries – whatever is good, true, honorable, pure, lovely, praise worthy, and right. Many things can fall into these categories, but Christ covers them all! This is not just “positive thinking,” this is “spiritual thinking.”
Further down in Philippians 4:10-13, From behind bars Paul says, “I’ve learned how to get along happily whether I have much or little … I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little" (Phil. 4:11-12). Did you catch that? Paul learned how to be happy and content. It didn’t just happen once he reached his goals. So happy contentedness is not something that comes once our waistlines have slimmed, our wrinkles are erased, our houses are organized, our children are successful, our bosses have thanked us, or our husbands dote on us. Instead it is learned as we become prayerful and thankful, as we practice spiritual thinking and as we trust totally in Christ despite our circumstances.
I can’t think of a better time to start practicing Paul’s process of prayer, thankfulness, and “spiritual thinking” than this Thanksgiving.
I know for me... This Thanksgiving day and weekend were more than could have imagined to be thankful for. Happy? Yes.......... I was very HAPPY! Thankful? Beyond words! Blessed? More than I could have even asked for.

Dear Lord, I’m turning over all my fears and problems to You to handle today. I can’t fix a single thing by worrying about it - but you can fix anything because nothing is impossible for You! Thank You for my blessings, big and small. Thank You for Your loving care for me. Thank You for being in charge of my day and my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

This is a picture of our wonderful Thanksgiving dinner being prepared and set out.
Thats my sweet Uncle Lou in the back.... double checking my Ham to make sure its done just right. Or maybe he's wondering what the world I have in there... hehhehee.... Oh wait... did I see him snitch a taste? I love you Uncle Lou!
This year... Thanksgiving took on a new meaning for me. With the big family *issue* that is going on right now... I really felt I needed to be with other family that ....... well..... I'll just say it.... *wanted me*
So... Ken.. being the most wonderful supportive husband ever.. packed the van and drove us 5 hours to see my Aunt, Uncle and Cousins. We arrived first thing Thanksgiving morning in time spend the morning preparing our Thanksgiving meal. My cousin was able to get the Fellowship Hall/Kitchen at her church for us to have our Thanksgiving. It worked out great... no stress at all.... we prepared the food right there all morning in the kitchen.... we set the food out buffet style for all to fill their plates.... ate till we could pop... visited for quite some time... and clean up was fairly easy due to the church having two dishwashers. We packed up leftovers for each of us to take with us ... and since Ken got us a lovely suite .. it had a nice kitchen for us to have leftovers in.
I went on this trip with a bit of a selfish attitude... that the trip was for me. To be close to family..... feel loved and wanted. I came home from this trip with God showing me that this trip wasnt ALL about me. He showed me that my Aunt, Uncle and cousins needed us as much as I need them. *what satan plans for destruction... God turns to love and healing* This family issue here at home is what satan has been using to destroy me and my family... God took that and completely changed it. Yes.. the *issue* is still there............ but that too will be shown to all of us as a blessing in it... but for now.. we get the blessings from it. Its amazing what simply loving one another can do. I felt so much peace while on this trip. And I have to say... the life that came back to my Aunt while we were there was just amazing. Not to mention the sparkle in my Uncles eye. From the day we arrived to the day we left... it was like two different people. Thank you GOD! Ken and the boys had a great time. Ken was able to just relax for once... and the boys were able to love and enjoy family they hadnt seen in a year. We're already talking about another trip after the New Year.
I learned a great lesson in happiness and thankfulness this Thanksgiving.
Well...............you all know me... time to get back to work.... I have lots of crocheting and knitting to do. Christmas is getting closer and I have gifts to get done.
Have a Magnificent Monday.

Hugs......... Love............ Blessings,
.::Tam::.

Philippians 4:6-9, “Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.”

Be Thankful this Thanksgiving...

Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don't know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character.
Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you're tired and weary, because it means you've made a difference.
It's easy to be thankful for the good things. A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks.
Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive. Find a way to be thankful for your troubles, and they can become your blessings.

God Bless you all................
.::Tammy::.

**1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. ~Psalm 23**

A Special Spiderman Blanket...

I have a special request if I may.... If you have been keeping up... you will remember I was asked to make a Prayer Blanket for a special little 10yr old boy named Kasey that has brain cancer. Well... after chatting with Michael (my 9yr old) .. he shared with me that he thought the blanket should be a *hero* blanket. Well... being that all the Prayer Blankets I make are the 12 point rounds... I knew exactly what to make... so I showed Michael some pictures of what others had done in making the Spiderman blanket and he thought it was a GREAT idea. My favor is ... as you take time to peek at this post.. would you say a little prayer for Kasey. I havent mailed it yet as I'm waiting on instructions from my friend who requested the blanket. So I thought I could get it filled with cyber prayers before I mail it off.Thanks so much!


God Bless you all!!

Huge Hugs
Lots of Love
Bountiful Blessings...
.::Tam::.

**"Whoever pursues godliness and unfailing love will find life, godliness and honor."
~ Proverbs 21:21**

Tests...

Patrick comes in from the living room, asking if I would quiz him on his German. He has a test tomorrow. He hands me his flash cards and I start to ask the questions... He did fine... but he gave answers with an unsure tone. He definitely wasn't confident that he knew the answers. He sat down and studied for a bit....a short while later ... we tried the quiz again... and with much more confidence... he answered the questions correctly. The first quiz I gave made Patrick uncomfortable.... he was unsure of himself. He was sad that he wasn’t ready, and sadder that he had to go back and study harder. My intent was certainly not to hurt his feelings, but to reveal the weak areas of his study so he could tighten the gaps and be ready for the real test.Just as I tested my son, God tests me. He often puts me in uncomfortable positions to uncover weak areas. God doesn’t point out my weakness to take advantage of me. Instead, His testing is to reveal areas that need work, so I will be strong enough to persevere and eventually succeed in what He’s called me to do. God uses all kinds of life situations to test us. Testing can take the form of difficult people in our lives, times of waiting, or a challenge to step outside our comfort zone to be obedient. Will we avoid the situation? Will we suffer through it and quit because it’s too hard? Or will we persevere and overcome?We might think God gets frustrated with us when we “fail” a test. I sometimes wonder if God wants to give up on me when I repeat the same mistakes. But just because my son didn’t know the answers on our mini-quiz didn’t mean I would give up on him. Just the opposite! I wanted him to succeed and was willing to give him test after test to make sure he was ready.God’s testing can be to prepare us for something more important, and often more difficult. He wants to see if we can sustain the pressure in preparation for something big. So, the next time your Heavenly Father calls you up for a pop-quiz, consider His desire to see you succeed. If a weakness is revealed, thank Him for helping you move to the next level by strengthening you.
Precious Lord, thank You for caring enough about my character and life to test me. Help me to see Your testing as a sign of Your love, and to be thankful for it. I pray for strength through Your Holy Spirit to walk in obedience and persevere. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


Show and Share time..........

Remember my drawstring Pumpkin candle bags? Well... this one is a drawstring Santa candle Bag.

Christmas Stocking I knitted for a very dear friend. :)

Kasey's Spiderman Blanket is DONE! Just waiting to hear from my friend to see how she wants to handle me mailing it. I'm really happy I was able to get this done in among my other projects!

This is a square I created the other night. I altered my circle square to make it more feminine.
have a wonderful evening..................

Hugs...

Love...

Blessings,

.::Tam::.

**“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” James 1:2-3**

Freebie Friday...

Adam and Eve disobeyed God. Because of their disobedience, sin entered into the world and because of sin, humankind was separated from God. You see, God is pure and Holy and cannot be joined together with sin. It makes no difference how much or how little you've sinned, you still fall short of God's perfection. THE BIBLE SAYS: "For all have sinned; all fall short of God's glorious standard." (Romans 3:23).

This puts us in a bind, because God tells us in the Bible that the punishment for sin is death–not just physical death, but a spiritual death which will cause separation from God and His kingdom for eternity.The good news is that God wants you to spend eternity in heaven with Him. 2,000 years ago God sent His Son, Jesus Christ to come to this earth and die on the cross to pay the penalty for your sin.THE BIBLE SAYS: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)In other words, even though you are separated from God because of your sin, God made a way for you to come back to Him. And, He is offering this salvation to you as a free gift. All you have to do is receive it

How do you receive this gift?

1.Admit your spiritual need, "I am a sinner."

2.Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the cross to take away your sins.

3.Repent. In other words, be willing to turn from your sin.

4.Receive, through prayer, Jesus Christ into your heart and life. Pray:

Dear Lord Jesus,I know that I am a sinner and need Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I now invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my personal Lord and Savior.In Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless you all........

have a Fabulous Friday and a Wonderful Weekend!

hugs...

love...

blessings...

.::T::.

**"I took my troubles to the Lord; I cried out to Him, and He answered my prayer."
~ Psalm 120:1**

Big fun tonight........

Patrick has his first Basketball Game tonight ..... then we are racing off to a TobyMac concert!
I'm really excited.... I cant wait to see my big boy play basketball tonight. Someone please remind me to take my camera!!! :) I need to get pictures of my baby.
Michael has signed up for Basketball too... but hasnt started practice yet.
I love watching my boys! Gosh... I remember the days of my older babies playing baseball... preforming in Show Choir.... playing parts in plays and musicals.... Oh those days of watching them too. *Proud Mommy*

The concert should be great fun! We have 5th row seats in front of the stage. Michael will just spit being that close to Toby. He loves TobyMac!
Sorry for the short post... but I have myself busy today with Crocheting and Knitting.
I have a few projects I will show off hopefully tomorrow.
Have a WONDERFUL day!

God Bless you all,
.::T::.

**"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger."
~ Proverbs 15:1**

A week with God...............

Monday WashDay

Lord, wash away all my selfishness and vanity, so I may serve you with perfect humility through the week ahead.

Tuesday Ironing Day

Dear Lord, iron out all the wrinkles Of prejudice I have collected through the years So that I may see the beauty in others.

Wednesday Mending Day

O God, help me mend my ways so I will not Set a bad example for others.

Thursday Cleaning Day

Lord Jesus, help me to dust out all the many faults I have been hiding in the secret corners of my heart.

Friday Shopping Day

O God, give me the grace to shop wisely and to
purchase kindness and compassion for all others in
need of love.

Saturday Cooking Day

Help me, my Savior, to brew a big kettle of brotherly Love and serve it with clean, sweet bread of human kindness.

Sunday The Lord's Day

O God, I have prepared my house for you. Please Come into my heart so I may spend the day and the Rest of my life in your presence. ******************************************************

'Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you Meet is fighting some kind of battle.'

God Bless,

.::Tam::.

Marvolous Monday..................

Praise Adonai... from the rising of the sun ... til the end of every day. ~~~Amen~~~
These are words from a beautiful Praise and Worship song.... Michael has been singing it all day today............ what a sweet sound!!!! Oh... there he went again... walked past me singing... I LOVE IT!

Well.......... a little bit of show and share..................

This is square I tested for Donna (SmoothFox) Its really a neat square. You could use any color with this and create a square for afghans of any age or gender. I made this one a bit on the 'country' side.

This is a Baby Gift Set that I made for a teacher and his wife's new baby.

This is a picture of my newest creation........... *Fabric Labels* Made right here.. with my own computer..printer and design.

Close up shot of the beanie and booties in the Baby Set. Both my own design.

While doing a bit of straightening up this morning... I picked up a couple rubberbands that had fallen out of the infamous *junk* drawer in our kitchen. As I put them away... I got to thinking about those rubberband balls we've all seen or even made ourselves.

For some life problems can be like that rubberband ball. Each one of our life issues are like a single rubberband that gets wrapped on that ball. It starts out small... just a couple issues... you are trying to deal with them... but a few more come about.. so they get added to the ball. Okay... so now you have a few more to deal with.. but you have to deal with the ones most recent in order to get to the ones before. You cant get to the red rubberband without removing the blue.. green and yellow ones first.

You sit in prayer... and seek God to help you.... Of course He does... and look... there goes that yellow rubberband. One issue gone. Uhoh.......... you have been neglecting to spend you time with God lately... and look... more issues. Wow... a bunch of those plain ol' brown rubberbands. Nothing special... but enough to totally cover up those more serious issues that have really been eating at you and now you cant get to them.

My point is....... we need to spend time with God every day!!! Even if its only for a few minutes.... so that our 'issues of life' dont get wrapped up in that rubberband ball that we find ourselves overwhelmed by.... so much so that some give up. They give up on themselves ... and then eventually God.

Lets run down a pretend day... and see how much time we really miss spending with God ...

Wake up... * Say Good Morning Father*

Shower... 15-30 minutes of time you could be talking to God while scrubbing your hair.

Drive to work... 15-30 or 60 minute drive... wow....look at all that time you are missing with God. And dont try to say its because you have other things on your mind. That is EXACTLY what you should be talking to your Father in Heaven about. Or maybe you try the excuse that you just dont think about it. Hmmmm ... really? Can you really drive to work and not see God all around you? That absolutely beautiful sun rise... the trees over there that still have their leaves that are so full of color... what makes them so special that God allows them to hold their leaves longer? The sparkle on the road as you drive... from the dew glistening from the sun.

Your day at work... break times.... why aren't you thanking God for your break? Lucky you.. some folks dont get breaks.

Lunch time.... Dont try the excuse that you work through lunch. Get up... go get your lunch... whether you brought it or need to go get some. Sit in your car and enjoy it. Thank the Good Lord for the food you're eating. Share some of your work issues with Him.. have you been given a problem to solve that morning and you are having trouble finding the answer? What better thing to do that ask you Father for help. And He will!!!!

Drive home.... again.... that whole drive to thank God for yet another day to earn a living... to support your family. And to thank Him for having that home to go to.

Bed time.......... *Good night Father.... thank you for all I have and all you have yet to share with me*

Wow............... look at all that time to spend with God. If we spend time like that with God everyday... we wouldnt have that huge rubberband ball bouncing around creating more havoc in our lives.

Lets try something.......... get 7 rubberbands. Big enough to wear on your wrist. For one week every night when you go to bed.... ask yourself if you spent any time at all with God that day.... if not.. you best do it then. Remove one rubber band. Now do this for the remaining days and I bet.. by the end of the week... you will be spending more and more time with God than you would have imagined. I bet you'll be smiling more too! God loves you... He wants to bring joy to your life. Spend time with Him so that He can.

Well............ speaking of spending time with God... I'm going to go do that now. I have the webbing to put on that Spiderman blanket... and its so mindless..I can have a nice chat with my Father while I do that. I love talking to Him while I crochet... He gives me some of the greatest ideas.

Have a Great today... and a better tomorrow

hugs...

love...

blessings...

.::Tam::.

**I cried out to the Lord, and he answered me from his holy mountain.
~ Psalm 3:4**

Double Stuff Freebie Friday...

Oreo Cookie Scarf...



This is really simple.
You can use any scarf pattern you like. I used the shell stitch from my keyhole scarf.

*The oreos are simply 3 round circles each. Two ‘coffee brown’ and one white.
Rnd 1) Ch 3. 12 hdc in 3rd ch from hook. (ch 3 does not count as a hdc) join to form circle in first hdc. (12 hdc)
Rnd 2) ch 2. hdc in same st. 2 hdc in each st around (24 hdc) tie off.
Stack the three circles together… sew them together through all three.

*Bitten Cookie…
Create in same manner as full cookies leaving last 3 sts undone on row 2.

*The glass is a simple rectangle size and color of your choice.
*The milk is a single row of DC the same size as the width of the glass.
Attach the milk to the inside top of the glass.. sew the glass to the scarf stuffing it slightly with some polyfil or scrap yarn. Not too much.. just enough to give it a 3D effect.



Homemade Oreo Cookies...

::Quick and Easy way::

1 package devil's food cake mix - Chocolate or German Chocolate (If you are going to use the German chocolate mix be sure to press cookies to slightly flatten then immediately after removing them from the oven - this will insure a perfectly round cookie)

2 eggs

1/2 cup oil (or butter flavored shortening)

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Roll dough into balls (a little larger than a quarter). Place on greased cookie sheet. Bake for 8 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool on sheet (until warm). Remove cookies from sheet and place on cooling rack.To assemble the cookies, in a pastry bag with a 1/2 inch, round tip (you can always use a zip lock bag with a round tip or just use a butter knife)add about a tablesppon of filling into the center of one cookie. Place another cookie similiar in size on top of the filling. Lightly press, to work the filling evenly to the outsides of the cookie. Continue this process until all the cookies have been sandwiched with cream.

::Oreo cookie filling::

1 stick butter

1 block of cream cheese (8 ounces)

3-4 cups confectioner's sugar (depending on desired consistency)

1 tsp vanilla extract

*cream butter (about 2 mins). Add cream cheese and mix well. Add confectioner's sugar slowly until you reach your desired consistency.

::REAL homemade oreos::

For the chocolate cookies:

1¼ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup unsweetened Dutch process cocoa

1 teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

1 to 1½ cups sugar

½ cup plus 2 tablespoons (1¼ sticks) room-temperature, unsalted butter

1 large egg

*Set two racks in the middle of the oven. Preheat to 375 degrees.In a food processor, or bowl of an electric mixer, thoroughly mix the flour, cocoa, baking soda and powder, salt, and sugar. While pulsing, or on low speed, add the butter, and then the egg. Continue processing or mixing until dough comes together in a mass.Take rounded teaspoons of batter and place on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, or greased sheet, about 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten the dough. Bake for 9 minutes, rotating once for even baking. Set baking sheets on a rack to cool. Use filling recipe and directions above.Makes 25 to 30 sandwich cookies**Store cookies in fridge**

hugs...

love...

blessings...

.::Tam::.

**So be strong and take courage, all you who put your hope in the Lord!
~ Psalm 31:24**

Putting on a brave face...

You may not be able to tell from this picture ... but my little man was putting on his best happy face for me so that I could get a picture of the scarf I made him. He was grieving over his pet mantis (Rex) at the time.. but agreed to take this picture for me. Mommy loves you David!

This is a close up shot of the scarf. If you cant tell what is on the scarf. Its Oreo cookies and a glass of milk. David loves the scarf. Thinks mommy is silly though... but loves his scarf.

How many times have you known someone to be putting on a 'brave face'? Or maybe you yourself have done it.
Have you ever sat at a school event/program and noticed a handful of children seeming to hang there heads in sadness? As you sit in the stands watching ... you overhear one mom tell another how little Bobby is sad because his father didn't show up for this event. You then watch as the children go on ... that little Bobby seems to put on his brave happy face to hide his hurt and perform for his mom who is so proudly taking tons of pictures.

We carry this behavior into our adult life. Putting on the brave face.. not telling anyone what is really inside. What we're really hurting from. It will all eventually get the better of you. Remember little Bobby... watch as the years go by ... his grades will slip... he will start to hang with the wrong kids... seem to find himself in trouble alot. He hurts his mom... and doesn't mean to. He just never knew how to deal with something that was troubling him. Its not easy to talk to another human sometimes... let alone someone we cant see. We know God is there... but as for me personally... I find myself wanting to see God... wanting Him to talk to me ... face to face. Needing to just cry in His arms. Bobby was feeling left out ... abandon. There are things we have happen in our adult life that leaves us feeling that same way.

Summer time... you spend alot of time with other parents during summer activities for your kids.... Swimming.. baseball.. riding bikes..etc. School starts and you lose all your friends. You don't see those parents on the weekends or evenings anymore. There is work.. .school and homework to be done. A really good friend gets a really awesome job. You find your conversations are all about their new world and you're feeling left out. Its like feeling alone in a room full of people. But you put on your brave/happy face and even though you are really happy for them... you're still hurting alone... you don't want them to know how you feel... you smile and nod your head in agreement. Feeling left out... abandoned is a tough thing to deal with.

The Holidays approach.... you've had a falling out with family members.... you wont be spending time with them for the holidays. They have given things of yours back to you... taken other things away... all while you have done nothing but love them and pray for them. That can sure leave you feeling abandoned.

Now ... for a minute... pile all these things together.... you have no one to talk to. Your friends are busy... your best friend has their own new world .. and your family has washed their hands of you. WOW... that can really build up... fester and cause heart ache/anguish!
Where is God in all this? He's sitting right next to you.... wanting so much for you to share this with Him. Give this grief to Him. Let Him make a difference in all these lives. You know... its good to sit in prayer with God. But sometimes... its better just to *talk* to Him. Share exactly how you're feeling with Him. Tell Him how hurt you are... Tell Him that you feel slightly jealous... Tell Him that you are even angry. Come on...you can do it. You've sat and talked to yourself before..and even answered yourself...So this should be cake. You sit and tell God all your troubles... and first of all... it will just feel physically good to get it out of your system... second ... if you give it to Him to deal with... the situations will become much better! As long as we hold on to these feelings... God cant work. You have to let Him have them.
So... lets try that today.. shall we. Pick one thing and one thing only. Talk (yes out loud) to God. Get it off your chest and let Him deal with it. *Whew* that's better. Tomorrow is a new day and you can let go of another issue. Before you know it ... you're completely free and you now feel LOVED and not abandoned. Don't let Satan spin you into a world of hopelessness. Let God take you to the wonderful open skies of HOPE.

huge hugs
lots of love
bountiful blessings...
.::Tam::.

**5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. ~ Romans 5:5**

Veterans Day...

"Dear Lord Jesus Christ,

those whom we honor today

are examples of your words:

"Greater love than this no one has:

that he lay down his life for his friends.

They gave up their lives in the defense of freedom

for their loved ones and their country.

Teach me to appreciate the virtue of patriotism

-- a true and Christian love of country.

Let me love my country, not to follow it blindly

but to make it the land of goodness that it should be.

Let my patriotism be such that it will not exclude

the other nations of the world,

but include them in a powerful love of country

that has room for all others too." Amen!


Thank you to my daddy who served in the Air Force

Thank you to my husband who served in the Air Force

Thank you to my son who joined the Navy.

God Bless!

.::Tam::.

**I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.
~ Romans 15:13**