Saturday, June 28, 2008

Who Am I?

I so wish I wrote with beautiful words. I don't, but here's what's on my heart. I hope it makes sense:

I began a Proverbs study this week (shared with me by Delta) and have really been enjoying it. I have been challenged and encouraged. Each lesson has the Proverbs to study, a place to record an application, prayer guidance, and a memorization verse. A couple of days ago, as I was following the prayer guidance, God gave me a revelation. It was one many of us of take for granted. I know I often do.

I came to the part of prayer where it called for confession. When I pray, I confess what I have done and ask for forgiveness, but I guess it has just been a long time since I have actually called it confession. Does that make sense? I guess I just always refer to it as 'asking for forgiveness'. Anyway, the study says this, "Confession: (Agreeing with God when you have broken His Law by doing what He forbids or not doing what He commands. Remember to evaluate your thoughts, attitudes, actions, and motives in light of what the Bible says. Also, call your sin what God calls it. Don't try to minimize, blame-shift or justify it)."

Again, I do these things, but for some reason that day, it really impacted me. I read what she said about not minimizing, shifting blame, or justifying my sin. I don't really do that, not with God; however, I don't often think about and really meditate on the fact that Jesus took total credit for all the horrible things I have done. EVERY ONE OF THEM. Yes, just like most Christians, I can easily say that I know that Jesus died for my sins. Yes. But I don't often picture Him taking the blame for me completely losing it and yelling at Tristan. This week, though, I actually heard Jesus take credit for each of my sins.

As I was sitting here doing this study, God totally revealed Himself to me. As I was confessing my sins, I heard the Judge say, "Yelling at your son? Hmmmm..." Then I heard Jesus say, "No, Father. That's on Me." Again the Judge, "Being lazy, disorganized..." Jesus, "No, Father. I've got that. That's on Me." "Gossiping about your neighbor...". "No, Judge. That's on Me."

I wish I could share every detail of the conversation, but because I'm not ready to post all my sins for the world to see, I'll keep some things private. I will say, though, that it was SO incredibly humbling. To hear My Savior take credit for all of the horrendous things I've done; My Savior who was tempted but never sinned, take credit for all of my failings...WOW! You see, I KNEW that Jesus died for my sin, but until Wednesday, I didn't hear His voice take credit for each of them. Wednesday brought me back. It served as the reminder that I needed. It's been a long time since I have given Jesus full credit for what He did. I have been honoring with my lips but not meditating on His goodness and really thanking Him for the shame He carried on the cross for me.

If you know me well, you know it's hard for me to accept people doing nice things for me. I'm not exactly sure why. I've had a friend lovingly tell me it's pride, but I really don't think that's the case (maybe that's my pride talking ;)). You see, I'm not too proud to accept help; not at all. I just hate for people to give things to me or do things for me when they have so much on their plate already. Too, I have a hard time watching people take advantage of others (it's part of my personality profile). I see people take advantage of others who are offering help. I sometimes call it "forced blessing". Channing and I have been in situations where we have been taken advantage of. For instance, we once had someone ask us to order tickets for them online when we ordered our own, and they would repay us when we got them. Well we got them, and the person said, "Thank you for blessing me with these." To me, that's a forced blessing. We weren't buying them to give, we were simply doing the guy a favor. Anyway, I'm sure that sounds so selfish. It was nice to give, I just don't really think that the situation was handled the way we expected. That is just one example of the many times I have seen people force blessings, in the Name of Jesus. I could go on about this, but I won't. It's a balance thing, I guess. It all goes back to motives.

My point is, I have a hard time letting my friends or others do things for me because I would rather take care of them. I want them to be taken care of. I want to serve others. I want the best for them. Right or wrong, surely I'm not alone in this. Anyway, I don't think I always give Jesus enough credit. I know I don't. Yes, I accept what He did, but I need to meditate on it daily. I need to hear His voice take My sin because that is EXACTLY what He did on the cross. I mean, if He had come to me beforehand and said, "Hey, Annie. Remember that name you called that person who cut you off in traffic? I'm going to take credit for that. I am going to die for that sin as well as all your others." Of course, there is NO way I would have conceded. That was my sin, not His. I messed up, He didn't. How thankful am I that He didn't ask? How thankful am I that He willingly gave His life for mine? Think about that. Think of every single sin you've committed. If you confess and ask for forgiveness, Jesus takes total credit for each and every one. He, who was blameless, took our sins onto the cross. He, who was/is perfect, carried our dirty secrets: lies, envy, anger, murder, gluttony, sloth, pornography, adultery...everything....to the cross. He took our punishment. Really think about that and meditate on it. I think you'll feel the same way I feel. In awe. Inspired. Embarrassed for what I've done. In debt to My Savior. IN LOVE!

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. 1 Peter 2:24

Who am I that You are mindful of me? Thank You, Jesus. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you, Jesus.


Update 7/1: Please let me say that I LOVE to help people. I know from reading this that it may appear that I feel taken advantage of if I ever help anyone, and I want you to know that that is ABSOLUTELY not the case. It blesses me to help others. :)

Friday, June 27, 2008

TGIF

YEA!!! It's FRIDAY! My favorite day of the week. We don't work on Fridays, so I always use this day to relax or do something fun.

I hope you have a great Friday too!

"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all." 2 Corinthians 13:14


Thursday, June 26, 2008

Publix Shoppers, Have I Got a Tip for You

Since becoming a frugal shopper a few months back, I have learned to love two major stores, CVS and Publix. This came as a huge surprise to me because I assumed that both stores were on the super pricey side to shop. As a matter of fact, when I lived in Atlanta, I LOVED to shop at Publix but didn't go much because of their higher prices. Thanks to all that I've learned about deals, CVS and Publix have become two stores at the top of my list of favorite places to shop. Both have AMAZING deals, and Publix, specifically, has SO many great policies that there is no reason not to shop there. I HEART Publix!!!

Seeing as how much I HEART Publix, you can imagine how thrilled I was to happen upon a super fantastic blog today. The blog is Fiddledeedee, and it is FABULOUS for lots of things, but specifically for Publix deals! Sarah has totally laid out all the deals into three categories:

PUBLIX Shoppers: for this week's deals with PRINTABLE coupons


PUBLIX Shoppers: for this week's deals with NON-printable coupons

PUBLIX Shoppers: For this week's BOGO sales

If you love Publix as much as I do or just want to learn more about this week's deals, stop by Sarah's page. She's a fellow southerner. Gotta love that!

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Prepare Yourself...

...what you're about to read is incredibly disgusting. Oh, where do I begin?

We were at the office. I was working on a patient's file and could hear Asher being loud in the back. So I told Tristan (aka: Lightning Jr.) to go check on him and to make sure he wasn't in the bathroom. Tristan, as usual, took his time going back to look for him, but once he found him, I knew it wasn't good. Tristan started yelling, "Gross! Disgusting! Yuck!" This was followed by peels of laughter. In the pit of my stomach, I knew what had happened. I immediately jumped up and sprinted to the back...where I found Asher...hands in the potty, splashing...with someone's pee in it!!! This is a public potty, people! AAAAAAAAAGH!!!
I always always always try to make sure that the bathroom door is closed because I don't want him in there. Little did I know, the bathroom was used, not flushed, and waaaay too appealing for a one year old. They always say to look on the bright side, I guess the bright side of this is that there was no poo in the potty. Praise the Lord! I think I would have passed out!

I guess it's safe to say I won't win any parenting awards any day soon. I just can't believe this happened! G-R-O-S-S!!!

Update: I found out today (the 26th) that it was Tristan's pee in the toilet. Praise God! I mean, gross still...yes. But at least it was four year old brother pee and not 65 year old man pee.

It's Pretty Official

Today, Asher finally realized that walking just may be better than crawling after all. He's been taking steps all month, but today he stepped it up a notch (pun intended). He has been walking all over the office and showing off for the patients. He is SO proud of himself.
My baby is growing up!

Oh, and yes, that is a mohawk on top of his head. It's his little curl mohawk that occurs naturally. I guess he's just naturally a cool kid. ;) My little rock star.

My New Look

Thanks to SUPER great (and super patient) blog designer, Hilary Keegan, I have a new look!!! Thank you SO SO much, Hilary, for your great design and your complete and total patience. I LOVE my new blog.

Looking for a new design for your blog, if so check out Hilary's site. She does AWESOME work!!! You can also check out a couple of blogs she did for some friends (thanks, Hillary, for sharing Hilary!):

The Dunham Diaries


Fashionista's Journal

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Interesting Sign

As I was driving to work today, I saw this sign in the rear window of the car in front of me. It was so funny, I just had to share (and yes, I did take this picture while driving. I just had to!). Check it out:Whether you are a Democrat, Republican, or Independent...would seeing a sign like this make you change your stance? Kind of like the "evangelists" who stand on the street corners at football games and in New Orleans screaming, "Repent now or burn in hell!" Do these tactics work? Just asking? They don't really appeal to me but maybe they do to you? Any thoughts?

My CVS Deals

Ok, can I just say...I LOVE CVS?! I mean, I really really do. I love CVS. For me, there is no greater place to shop for all my toiletry needs. Now, I must point out...CVS (specifically their staff) doesn't necessarily love me. I've read all kinds of online posts about how much the CVS workers just adore some of you shoppers; however, at my store, I'm pretty sure they dread the sight of me. Every time I go, there is one of two ladies who absolutely seem like they would rather be forced to listen to nails screech on a chalkboard than to have to check me out at their register. And every time I go, I apologize profusely for using coupons and my Extra Care Bucks and for doing multiple transactions (usually two, but no more than three). I feel like I'm pretty respectful. I make sure to let all others go ahead of me. I do one transaction and then move away from the register to all my stuff in order for the next. I try my best to make conversation with the workers, but it doesn't seem to matter. The two ladies just really don't seem to enjoy my presence. Oh well. What can I do? I'll just continue to be caring toward then and hope that they realize that I'm not trying to make their lives difficult (I really do try to have everything in order. All they have to do is scan). Anyway, on to the deals.

I got some FABULOUS deals today! Check out what I got:
I did two transactions and spent a total of $3.17 out of pocket!!! I saved $44.36!!!!!!!!! Can you say AWESOME?! Here is how I did it:

First Transaction:
Aussie Conditioner $2.99; earned $2 ECB
Colgate MaxFresh Toothpaste $2.99; coupon for $.50 off; earned $2 ECB (Getting home, I realized I was actually overcharged for this. This specific toothpaste was supposed to be on sale for $2.49, thus making my purchase FREE plus an overage of one cent!).
Colgate MaxFresh Toothpaste $2.99; coupon for $.50 off; earned $2 ECB (See above about the incorrect price)
Colgate Total Advantage Whitening Toothpaste $2.99; coupon for $1.50 off; earned $2 ECB (OVERAGE OF $.51 CENTS!!! They paid ME for this toothpaste!)
CVS Sheer Bandages $1.99; ECB $1.99 FREE
1 Huggies Natural Care Bath Wash $3.49; coupon for $1 off; earned $2 in ECB
Candy for Tristan $.79
Used $13.98 in ECBs and $1.13 cash out of pocket!!! Saved $19.58 on this transaction!!!

Second Transaction:
Colgate Total Advantage Whitening Toothpaste $2.99; coupon for $1.50 off; earned $2 ECB (THEY PAID ME $.51 CENTS!!!)
Colgate Total Advantage Whitening Toothpaste (SEE ABOVE)
CVS Sheer Bandages $1.99; earned $1.99 ECB FREE
2 All Small & Mighty (Buy one get one free); used 2 $1 off coupons
1 Blade Viper Shower Gel $3.99; earned $1 ECB
Used $11.99 in ECBs and $2.04 cash out of pocket!!! Saved $24.78 on this transaction!!!

The only thing I wasn't thrilled about was that I went in with $15.98 in ECBs and only came out with $9; however, our budget is kind of tight this month, so it was better to go ahead and use ECBs to take advantage of the great deal on the ALL Detergent. All in all, it was a great day at CVS!

Monday, June 16, 2008

Check it Out

It is totally changing my life. Check it out!

One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism...

The Church

From Sydney to Memphis to Karachi to Phoenix, churches all over the world are standing together like never before.

One Prayer is unifying churches from all over the globe to stand together and promote unity in the body of Christ.

Our church is one of 1,479 churches participating in this AWESOME movement. It's only been two weeks, but it has literally changed my life!

To watch last week's AWESOME message, click the following link:

ONE Prayer

Both weeks are on the site and both are GREAT. I encourage you to take time to watch each of them, but if you're in a pinch for time, last week's was SUPER GREAT!

Also, click the picture above to visit the ONE prayer website to see how others are being impacted by this series and how you can be praying for the needs of others. AND if you have a need, it's a great place to post it and know that thousands around the world will be praying for you.


Rent What?

Have you always wanted a pair of designer sunglasses but didn't have the celebrity paycheck to afford them? Well, guess what?! You, too, could rock a pair of designer shades at a fraction of the cost! Want to know how? You can rent them! That's right, I said rent.

This story completely FLOORED me.
I was cleaning my dining room and saw the story in Sunday's paper. People are actually renting designer sunglasses. Where do I begin with this one???

Ok, I mean #1. Have you never lost or sat on a pair of your sunglasses? And you want to rent a pair of designer shades? Really? I mean, if I had a dollar for every time I've dropped a pair of sunglasses into the lake, I'd be rich (ok, so rich is probably a strong word. I could buy a meal deal at Chick-fil-A).
#2. We're talking about renting sunglasses here. What if you scratch them or stretch them out? What if your two year old snatches them off and breaks one of the arms off? No kids, surely you know some.
#3. Are sunglasses really that important that you need to rent them? Are they that huge of a fashion statement? I mean, you could probably find a pair that look exactly like the designer shades for a fraction of the cost. It just won't have that gold "D" on the side. Can't you settle for an "E"?
#4. THEY'RE SUNGLASSES! Seriously?! People really rent them? One pair (that has a waiting list) rents for $25 a week or $55 a month. I'm not kidding.

I found the website that rents them and was shocked to see that they have a WAITING LIST for some of the pairs. A WAITING LIST TO RENT SUNGLASSES! Who would have thought that there would be a day where we would be put on a waiting list, not to get our kids into a pristine private school, but to rent that super cool pair of designer shades that Sarah Jessica Parker wore in Sex in the City?
To check out the list of designer shades available for rent, check out bagborroworsteal.com.

So I ask you, would you rent a pair of designer shades? Don't be afraid to say yes. I am not a fashion queen, so what do I know?

Sunday, June 15, 2008

GO CELTICS!


Ok, can I just say that I'm not really an NBA fan? Honestly, I haven't watched a single game of the regular season. For some reason, though, I'm HOOKED on the finals...HOOKED! Channing has been watching, so I reluctantly started watching too. Now, I have to see the games! Tonight is game five of the series, and although I would like for the Celtics to ultimately win, I hope the Lakers win. I want the series to continue. I'm not ready for it to end just yet.
The last game was quite shocking. The Lakers had more than a 20 point lead at one point and allowed the Celics to come back and beat them! Can you believe it?! I know they had three players on Kobe at all times, but still! Lakers, seriously?! Tonight, you need to step it up. We want more games!

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Happy Birthday, Rachael!

Happy Birthday MySpace Graphics

Happy Birthday Graphics


Rachael, I hope you have a SUPER GREAT birthday!!! :) Love you!

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Speaking of Shoes...

During the summer, the only shoes Tristan wears are Crocs. I have to admit, it's 100% because they are so easy. There are no laces to tie, they are easy to clean, and they are super comfy. He has several different colors, so at least he's not wearing the same exact pair of shoes day after day.

Anyway, I've noticed over the past couple of weeks, he's been wearing his shoes differently. On one shoe, he'll have the strap pushed forward (in a clog style), and on the other foot, the strap will be behind his foot. It looks kind of funny, so today I asked him...

Tristan, why do you wear your shoes that way?

I wasn't really prepared for his answer.

Because God told me to.

I mean, what do you say to that? Who am I to argue with God? When we got to work, I had him tell Channing what he told me. I think he was surprised too. His answer, "Well, we always need to do what God tells us to do."

So next time you see someone wearing something really strange or in a strange way, don't judge. God may have been their fashion guide that morning. ;)

Asher's First Pair of Shoes


Today was a big day for Asher. He got his very first pair of shoes (ok, if we're being technical, he actually got two pairs, but he's only worn one pair thus far). I went to The Pant Store (which, if you live in my area, has TONS of super cute stuff. Check it out if you live around here) intending to get him some navy crocs (they had them on sale for $24 which is great considering they're usually around $32). However, when I got there, I found that they didn't have any crocs in his size except bright pink (no thank you). I was disappointed until I saw the Polliwalks. I thought they were pretty cute, especially on his tiny feet. Now for me, I'm usually anti anything character (you know what I mean, right? The Super Man shirts, Spider Man shoes, etc. It's not bad, it's just not my thing. I try to limit those things to pjs that only the family will see). But there was just something about these little shoes on Ash's feet. They were really cute. I wanted navy, but they were out of his size, and I had to go with red. Still cute, though. He isn't quite sure what to think about them.

If you're wondering about his second pair of shoes, he got some really cute brown sandles. He seems to walk more easily in those. He wants to pull on his Polliwalks.

As for walking, he's not quite there yet, but he's getting closer. Now that he's got shoes, it will be much easier to put him down when we're out and about. We will no longer be breaking the "No shirt, No shoes, No Service" rules.

And for those interested in the Polliwalks, they are just as cushy and soft as the Crocs. I know most knock-off brands are pretty uncomfortable, not so with these. They feel just like Crocs. Gotta love the comfort factor!

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

It Didn't Take Long

Asher has learned to defend himself...on a regular basis. You may have guessed that Asher is protecting himself from his big brother. If so, you are right. He actually started this a couple of months back but has become much more aggressive over the past couple of days. Since yesterday, Asher has left bite marks on Tristan's back, ear, nose, and a full set on his cheek. The one on his cheek looks like a lipstick kiss that needs to be wiped off. My poor Tristan looks like he's been in a fight or something. I guess, to some degree, he has. The thing is, three of four of his bites came when Tristan was doing nothing more than trying to cuddle his baby brother. Problem is that Asher, much like our dog Flipper, has been so abused by Tristan that he reacts first and questions later. Tristan gets in his face, and the fangs (literally) come out. It usually happens when I'm out of the room. I hear a long, loud, curdling scream, and I run into the room to see Asher with a "What?" look on his face...like he has no idea what his brother is screaming about. I then have to discipline Asher (who then gets his chance to cry), and I have to remind Tristan why Asher bites him. It makes for a fun 10 minutes (every other hour!).

Watch out, Lindsay! My "scarlet B" is coming!

Friday, June 6, 2008

Does This Bother Anyone Else?

Channing left the playroom t.v. on this morning, and it was tuned in to INSP (Inspiration Network). As I was checking my email, I happened to hear a televangelist speaking, and it really disturbed me. It's still on, and the more I see and hear, the more it upsets me. This "pastor" just announced that after he prays with us (please wait until I've prayed), he wants us to "Obey God and sow a $1,000 seed". He expects 1,000 people to call in and donate $1,000. I am NOT KIDDING! The more I listen, the more I hear. Now he's saying, "God has spoken to me and said that someone is watching and has a lawsuit. Sow your $1,000, even if you don't have it, and you will be blessed. Nothing happens if you don't use your faith. Some other comments, "Use $1,000 on your credit card, and your seed will be sown even faster. If you have credit card debt, this is what you need to do." AND "You know you don't have $1,000. Sow it anyway. Use your retirement, your kids' college money. This will be one of the most miraculous things you've done in your life." He keeps repeating, "Many of you don't have the $1000, send it anyway. You think 4% interest in your bank account is good, try 100%." WHAT?! Are you kidding me?! For some reason, this just makes me sick to my stomach. Don't get me wrong, I totally believe in giving and know that it is an absolute necessity. The money doesn't belong to us anyway. However, the Bible says, "We receive freely so we should give freely, not under compulsion." I think this guy is taking advantage of hurting people and is doing it in the name of Jesus. I hurts my heart.

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Powerful Words

I was catching up on Beth Moore's blog and read a really great post about worry.
One quote that really stood out was this:

I've come to learn from God that worry is a waving red flag to the enemy. It is a dead giveaway that the person owning it does not trust God. The shield of faith is down. So fire when ready. Every time we're tempted to take it all on and worry something to death, let's say aloud from the depths of our souls, "I choose to trust You, Lord. I choose trust. I choose You."

Be quiet, Dear Soul! God is the Master! Don't be afraid.

How true is that?! Those are powerful words. I hope I remember them when I face worry and doubt.

If you have never done a Beth Moore Bible study, let me take this time to encourage you to do so. She is a truly gifted teacher and never ceases to amaze me with her ability to decipher and explain Biblical truths. She is, in my opinion, one of the greatest teachers of our time.

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

2 Days of GREAT Savings

I'm so excited about my past two days of shopping. I have saved money, and that always makes me happy.
Check out these savings! I should have taken a picture:

Winn Dixie:
Angel Soft Mega- 9 rolls
Organic Milk
Sparkle Giant Roll 8 pack
4 packs of Pampers Splasher Diapers
2 packs of Luvs -Mega Size
1 box of Luvs
8 kiwi fruits
Deep Dish Pie Shells
10 packs of Sargento Cheese
1 can of mixed veggies (I usually try to avoid canned veggies and fruits but was in a pinch for dinner~pot pie)
1 can of Campbell's cream of potato soup
GRAND TOTAL: $58.63 OUT OF POCKET
SAVINGS: $84.92!!! Yippee!!! LOVE it!
AND not only did I save $84.92, I also got a coupon for $10 off my next $40 order (which, if you know anything about coupons, you know that the $40 is BEFORE coupons!!! Woo hoo!).

Today, I quickly made a stop at CVS. I have several deals lined up for their store but had both kiddos with me, so I improvised. I just took care of my most pressing deal...the Pampers deal.

Right now at CVS, if you buy $20 worth of Pampers products (pre-coupons~important to know), you will receive $5 in ECBs. Soooooooo....today, I went home with 7 tubs of Pampers wipes (we don't use their diapers) and 1 squeeze pop for Tristan (the thing cost $1.19. I wasn't thrilled with that purchase), and I only spent $8.30 out of pocket!!! I also got $5 in ECBs to use. :) My total savings today at CVS was $18.50! Here's how I did the CVS deal:

The Pampers wipes were on sale for $2.99/tub. I got 7 tubs.
I had 3 $2/2 coupons for Pampers products (many of you moms have better coupons for Pampers. If you have a baby, then you probably get those coupons all the time. I, however, have misplaced mine since I don't use Pampers. Oh well. Thank goodness for the paper!).
I also had a coupon for $4 off of a $20 purchase.
Since I was going to receive $5 back in ECBs, I used $5 in ECBs I already had (you always want to use ECBs to buy products that earn you ECBs. That way, it is TOTALLY FREE. It's called "rolling your ECBs").
So for the exact order (order matters):
Ring up wipes, give $4 off $20 coupon, give manufacturer's coupons, give ECBs, give cash. Tada...done. SAVINGS! Simple as that.
CVS, I love you!

Needless to say, we won't have to buy wipes or diapers for the next few months. What a blessing!!!

Monday, June 2, 2008

You've Gotta Read This Post

I've posted before about Delta Kelly and the amazing ministry that she and her husband (and boys) have started in Montgomery, AL. She and I went to college together, and back then she was a light to so many, just like she is now. Every time I read her blog, I realize that I should be doing more to share God's love, to fulfill the Great Commission.
Delta just has such a great ability to share God in any and every situation. She is truly a gifted communicator.

Check out this post from her blog where she shares some of the funny yet serious comments she's received from people in her neighborhood. I believe it will touch your heart and ignite a fire inside of you just like it did me.

Quotes From Our Hood This Week