tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49960563725647437972024-03-13T16:13:39.514-04:00Along The WayHer children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. Proverbs 31:28Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.comBlogger367125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-26065832646741225122014-02-04T07:40:00.005-05:002014-02-04T07:40:53.969-05:00Baby Update: Week 3030 weeks.... seems like forever since I announced it and yet 10 weeks still seems so far away. I'm trying really hard to enjoy this since this is more than likely our last pregnancy. But yet I am still wishing away the days.<br />
I would love to:<br />
<ul>
<li>be able to bend down without groaning</li>
<li>sleep all night without getting up to pee or having crazy leg cramps</li>
<li>eat whatever I want</li>
<li>drink whatever I want</li>
</ul>
<br />
Not that I don't want this pregnancy but I just want it to be over. I'm done already and I still have 10 more weeks. I have lots to keep me busy in the next 2 1/2 months but that's even more of the problem. I just can't go at the same speed I have been. I pay for it the next day for sure. So at this point I'm just tired. I need to do some major revamping of our lives and simplifying even more. My Lilla Rose business is taking off and while I'm excited it is tiring.... hoping to push now and then spend some down time once the baby comes.<br />
<br />
Mr Micah is super active... for those who have had boys and girls - do you remember a difference in their activity level while in the womb? I sure do. Boys are WAY more active then girls.... and they hurt a lot more - just stronger with their kicks and punches... I'm pretty sure I'm bruised in one spot already. I passed my glucose testing which I almost always do but am still having some blood issues - my platelet numbers are jumping all over the place so that's annoying and frustrating.... researching ways to bring them back up naturally so that I don't have to have steroids or be induced. Two things I really detest! <br />
<br />
I have to give a huge shout-out to my hubby though - we make such an awesome team and in his words 'we'd be screwed without each other'. :) <br />
<br />
So we're plugging on and focusing on the end prize.... a sweet baby boy. How do I not wish these days away right now? Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-50638560244281779662014-01-28T08:36:00.003-05:002014-01-28T08:36:32.014-05:00What Day Is It?Really. I haven't posted in forever. I do apologize. How does life get so busy.... or I get so lazy.... or tired. Oh yeah... I'm expecting baby #4. sigh.<br />
<br />
I do feel bad for not keeping up with this blog. I really enjoy it but I need to admit to myself and you that I'm just never going to be a MSM or SarahMae. It just isn't going to happen, not at this stage of my life. <br />
<br />
But enough of that.... I have to just give a short shout-out to some of my favorite prayer warrior sisters out there. Nathan's grandfather passed away last week so we had a last minute out of town trip to make. It included 2 nights in a hotel.... which never ends well with my children. But they are getting a bit older and I think that helps. It ended up being a very nice weekend. Bop was a believer so there was much rejoicing that he is no longer suffering. And we got to see Aunts and Uncles, cousins from out of town - lots of catching up and enjoying family. And while we all had our moments my little ones did pretty darn great if I do say so. The only really bad episode was our dinner out on Saturday and that's only cause we waited until 8:00 to eat.... I was starting to get cranky too. ;)<br />
<br />
But I know the weekend went so well because we had so many covering us in prayer..... and I am truly thankful for that.<br />
<br />
Now we must get through this week.... so keep the prayers coming. ha! Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-9832484256597315182014-01-15T08:45:00.000-05:002014-01-15T08:45:05.536-05:00Slow Cooker French Onion SoupYou know you love your husband when after he leaves for work you spend the next half hour crying ..... cause you're slicing onions for his favorite soup!<br />
<br />
I've been in a slump lately regarding dinner. I love to cook and create new things but by 3 or 4 in the afternoon when I should be starting dinner prep I'm so tired and worn out I can't even think about what I want to make. But that also doesn't mean I want to eat frozen casseroles for the next three months. So when I stumbled upon this gem in my email yesterday from Pillsbury I knew I had to make it. Almost all the prep is done in the morning (when I have some energy) and then left to cook all day in the crock-pot! <br />
<br />
So here it is a new one for us, I'll be sure to let you know how it turned out!<br />
<br />
<div>
<h1>
Slow-Cooker Rustic French Onion Soup</h1>
</div>
<div>
<h4>
Ingredients</h4>
<div>
<h2>
</h2>
<ul>
<li>
<span>
6</span><span> large onions, cut in half, then thinly sliced (14 cups)
</span>
</li>
<li>
<span>
1/4</span><span> cup butter, melted
</span>
</li>
<li>
<span>
1</span><span> teaspoon salt
</span>
</li>
<li>
<span>
1</span><span> teaspoon pepper
</span>
</li>
<li>
<span>
1/4</span><span> teaspoon dried thyme leaves
</span>
</li>
<li>
<span>
5</span><span> tablespoons all-purpose flour
</span>
</li>
<li>
<span>
3/4</span><span> cup dry sherry
</span>
</li>
<li>
<span>
1/4</span><span> cup water
</span>
</li>
<li>
<span>
1</span><span> carton (32 oz) Progresso® beef-flavored broth (4 cups)
</span>
</li>
<li>
<span>
20</span><span> slices (1/2 inch thick) baguette (about 10 oz)
</span>
</li>
<li>
<span>
6</span><span> oz Gruyère cheese, shredded (1 1/2 cups) (Store didn't have this, bought Swiss instead)</span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<h4>
Steps<span></span><span></span></h4>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>
<div>
<span>1</span>
<span>Spray
6- to 7-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In slow cooker, place
onions, butter, salt, pepper and dried thyme. In medium bowl, mix flour,
sherry and water with wire whisk until blended. Stir into onion
mixture.</span>
</div>
</li>
<li>
<div>
<span>2</span>
<span>Cover; cook on Low heat setting 9 to 10 hours or until onions are softened and deep brown.</span>
</div>
</li>
<li>
<div>
<span>3</span>
<span>Stir broth into slow cooker. Increase heat setting to High. Cover; cook 10 minutes or until hot.</span>
</div>
</li>
<li>
<div>
<span>4</span>
<span>Meanwhile,
set oven control to broil. Line cookie sheet with foil. Arrange
baguette slices in single layer on cookie sheet. Broil with tops 3
inches from heat 2 minutes, turning once, until lightly browned.
Sprinkle cheese evenly over slices; broil 1 minute longer or until
cheese is bubbly. Top each bowl of soup with 2 cheese toasts. Sprinkle
with fresh thyme.</span></div>
<div>
<span> </span></div>
<div>
<span> </span></div>
<div>
<span>Follow me on facebook - www.facebook.com/alongthewaytoblessed </span>
</div>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-64468270023053224682014-01-13T12:30:00.000-05:002014-01-13T12:30:03.053-05:00When you've been had<br />
I wasn't planning on posting today. This cold has been taking a toll on our house and this mama is struggling in more ways then one. <br />
<br />
Every since Christmas when we took a full two-weeks off from school and Lydia's program it's been hard... oh so hard getting back in to the rhythm of things. And when it gets hard the easiest thing is to just give in and give up.... plug a movie in for the kids, make a cup of tea and surf the net....<br />
<br />
or is it?<br />
<br />
Because the same problems are going to come up again shortly... probably even before the movie is over and then what.<br />
<br />
This morning I struggled greatly with my little ones - they don't feel good (so I do try to extend a bit of extra grace), I don't feel good (where's my grace), and we are all tired. I had a math sheet for Lydia to do and she started to fuss that she didn't want to do it, I told her no she had to do it. So she picked it up and looked at the other side and said 'can I do this one'..... sure I answered... hey at least she was doing something.<br />
<br />
but wait.<br />
<br />
She still got her way. She did not have to do what I asked her to do. oh man... She still 'had' me and ended up not having to do what I asked. boo<br />
<br />
I just sat on the floor and teared up. I realized that so often even though I didn't realize or mean to do it I was still giving in to my children just so we could get the work done, so we could 'check' off the box and move on. But they were not obeying with the right heart or attitude.<br />
<br />
It's not going to be easy, and the easy way is never really the easy way in the end.... but oh how I'd love to plug a movie in and make a cup of tea right now. I won't... I can't.... I sit here listening to the fighting and yelling (Josiah is singing and Lydia is NOT happy about that), Naomi is calling out to me and not napping because well that's just her. I am struggling particularly with Josiah because he's too big now and I can't easily carry him upstairs and put him in his room.<br />
<br />
Oh how he can make my blood boil. It makes me so sad and angry at myself.<br />
<br />
Just keeping it real.... life is hard right now and even harder when you realize you've been being 'had' by your children even when you were trying so hard not to. blahJessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-23466914967216529762014-01-07T07:06:00.000-05:002014-01-07T07:06:01.096-05:00Baby Update: Week 26How time flies... it seems like just yesterday I was announcing. It's the first Tuesday of the month so time for a quick update. <br />
<br />
Even though 26 weeks still seems so far away from 40 weeks. And then I say - 14 weeks left and suddenly 14 is a whole lot less than 26 so it seems pretty close.<br />
<br />
14 sundays... 7 more pay days....oh my goodness.... even though 3 months seems so far away. When you break it down it really doesn't seem that long. <br />
<br />
Lydia has a calendar she marks off each night - last night it read 99 days... we are less than 100 days away!<br />
<br />
I'm still in my pregnancy prime as Nathan calls it. So I am really enjoying this time. Although my leg cramps and heart burn make some evenings less enjoyable then other. I am also suffering from horrible ligament pains... in the middle of the night. I get awake crying from them and there isn't a darn thing to do except wait them out. <br />
<br />
The kids are so excited and have been trying to feel him move whenever they can. Of course he doesn't obey timley so they get bored easily. It's pretty cute when Naomi calls him Bicah, She also just learned to say 'Siah' and screams this constantly until her brother responds to her.<br />
<br />
So all in all, we're just plugging away and keeping up with doctor appointments. As tiring as this is I also feel in pretty good shape because well I have three other ones at home..... I am staying pretty active. But I will say Thank Goodness for computers.... I really need a mid-afternoon snooze to get me through the evening so that has been a life saver for me ;) Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-17784155433300645912014-01-05T22:21:00.001-05:002014-01-05T22:21:22.528-05:00Just a day in our life....So here I sit at 10:05pm with one very awake little girl. But let me tell you how our day started.<br />
<br />
It was 8:25am this morning and we were running around like crazy trying to get out of the house by 8:30 for Sunday school. I was multi-tasking and brushing my teeth and decided to try and put Naomi's socks on at the same time. Pulled her up into my lap.<br />
<br />
She was holding a small plastic hair dryer.<br />
<br />
Josiah went to grab it off of her.<br />
<br />
She reared back and smacked me square in the nose with the toy.<br />
<br />
I yelled. loud. and pushed her off of my lap on to the floor.<br />
<br />
And yelled again (with a toothbrush still in my mouth).<br />
<br />
The look of pure terror on my son's face quickly arose and I broke.<br />
<br />
Naomi was laying on the floor crying, Josiah was standing there in terror of his own mother, and I was running for the sick because I was dripping gunk all over the place. Started to tear up and just about was completely bawling.<br />
<br />
Nathan came down stairs to find all three of us crying, and when he picked Naomi up found her lip was split from hitting the toy and that really sent me over the edge! I was sobbing by then. I hurt my daughter and my poor son was terrified of me. <br />
<br />
Gathered everyone in to the car and headed out to church. On the way my sweet son called my name and when I answered he responded 'I love you'. <i>fresh tears</i>.<br />
<br />
Church. Fellowship lunch. Afternoon service.<br />
<br />
Then a wonderful and amazing bible study with a sweet group of girls. Called home when I left and found out that Lydia had just woken up from a very long afternoon nap. NOT normal. Arrived home and found out she was in bed again. Oh boy. She woke up about 6:30ish and we got some Tylenol and toast into one very warm little girl. We both fell back asleep about 7:30ish, and she just woke me up about 9:30... and she's WIDE awake now. She literally had been sleeping off and on all day. <br />
<br />
Anyone want to guess when we'll get to go back to sleep??? :)<br />
<br />Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-21052646124723601822013-12-30T06:14:00.001-05:002013-12-30T06:14:23.621-05:00New focus<br />
Some of you may follow me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/alongthewaytoblessed">facebook</a> and saw my message about blowing our budget last month. I am a numbers girl and when I sat down to balance everything out I was shocked (and saddened) to see how bad things were.<br />
<br />
The month before we had a big financial thing happen.... we paid off our house. It wasn't something that was easy but had been a goal for us for awhile. Before I quit working, during that year of 'trying' to see if we could make it on one salary we put my entire paychecks (minus giving) towards our mortgage and quickly whittled it down. So for a solid year we made probably three extra payments each month. It made a HUGE difference. It wasn't easy but our house is OURS now. It's a good feeling to know that if something would happen to Nathan or our income, we are not threatened with a payment hanging over our heads to keep the house... we should always have a roof over us now.... heating it may be another question. ha<br />
<br />
But because of that I knew coming into December that we had some 'extra' wiggle room and didn't pay as close attention as I would have before. It really wasn't a good idea. I overspent. I made a mistake. But I only did it for one month, I've realized it, and now we are re-focusing for the new year. I honestly believe that every so often making mistakes are good and teachable moments - they help you to refocus and gain new traction in meeting your goals. <br />
<br />
This year our goal is to pay off my student loans. To easily do that we would need to put each mortgage payment towards my loans each month. I said to 'easily' do that..... we also have a couple large expenses we are looking at that isn't going to make it easy. So I'm going to being pinching pennies... planning ahead better, and really watching every dollar that comes in and goes out. And I hope to blog soon on our budget and how that works in our house.<br />
<br />
I hope and plan to blog more intensely on this and how we are doing each month. What are your goals for the coming year? Do you have big ones or small ones? Having a goal (no matter how big or small) is the first step towards making a change. :)<br />
<br />
***My dear friend who tried to contact me in a comment the other day, because my blog is so basic I wasn't notified and not sure you were notified that I responded...... email me at njbish5 @ gmail (dot) com Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-7664841089708725462013-12-18T08:20:00.004-05:002013-12-18T08:20:57.668-05:00Gingerbread cookies & icingI know I posted yesterday on <a href="http://andtheycallherblessed.blogspot.com/2013/12/crunch-time.html">crunch time</a> - but there's still time to do some baking... specially if you have little ones and need a fun activity to do!<br />
<br />
This is my favorite gingerbread cookie recipe and the icing is perfect. It melts together so well. Plus it's more like a glaze so after it drys it getting a shiny harder coating on it. They are a match made in Heaven.<br />
<br />
This cookie is a soft/chewy cookie.... actually I prefer them un-iced with my morning cup of tea, not too strong, not too weak of a flavor. yum yum <br />
<br />
<b><u>Gingerbread Cookies:</u></b><br />
<ul>
<li>3 C flour</li>
<li>1 tsp soda</li>
<li>1/2 tsp nutmeg</li>
<li>2 tsp ginger</li>
<li>1 tsp cinnamon</li>
<li>1/4 tsp cloves</li>
<li> 1/4 tsp salt</li>
<li>3/4 C packed brown sugar</li>
<li>1/2 C molasses</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>3/4 C shortening</li>
</ul>
<br />
Cream shortening & sugar. Add molasses & egg, add dry ingredients and mix well. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours. Roll out on floured counter and cut as desired.<br />
<br />
Baked 10-12 minutes at 350 on greased (or parchment paper lined) cookie sheets.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Gingerbread Icing:</b></u><br />
<ul>
<li>2 C powdered sugar</li>
<li>1 egg white</li>
<li>1 T water</li>
<li>1/4 tsp Cream of Tarter</li>
</ul>
<br />
Mix for 3-5 minutes with hand mixer.<br />
<br />
Let the cookies cool and then ice as desired. This icing tints really well with food coloring and either paint brushes or Popsicle sticks work great for applying the icing. <br />
<br />
Enjoy! Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-44355530204296679782013-12-17T07:44:00.000-05:002013-12-17T07:44:05.643-05:00Crunch Time<br />
It's crunch time.... T-8 days till Christmas. good gravy. Seriously one week from today is Christmas Eve. Where did the time go, I thought I had so much time to prepare and then boom, here it is.<br />
<br />
I haven't wrapped one gift yet (except for the ones that had to be wrapped for events already taken place) but not one person in my house has their gifts wrapped, nor next door, nor down the street. Yep I am totally behind! Looking like an all nighter at some point.<br />
<br />
Nathan totally hates this time of year. He despises how everything is crazy, and everyone is off schedule, and grumpy, and tired, and naughty, and greedy..... the list goes on. I think it's made that much worse because we come right off of hunting season. Which means he's already tired coming into the holiday season. He's already run raggad because of getting up early, tramping through woods for hours on end, dragging deer out, staying up late cutting and processing the meat. The kids are crazy cause they haven't seen him in two weeks, they miss him, they aren't sleeping.... it's a vicious cycle for at least a month. whew.<br />
<br />
I really attempt to keep things normal and moving along, but the house work, extra baking, shopping, wrapping, visiting, parties, normal school work. It can just get overwhelming for sure.<br />
<br />
But the freedom I have in Christ allows me to walk away from some things and NOT feel guilty about it. To realize that sometimes I have to make choices and when they feel right for my family and our situation I answer to no one but my God and my husband.<br />
<br />
So these are the things I have walked away or simplified from:<br />
<ul>
<li>Christmas Cards - my mom had 10 left over picture cards that she gave me. I sent out 10 cards this year. If you are upset because you didn't get one then come see me and see the picture in person.</li>
<li>Baking - I was very selective with my baking this year, I made easy and freezable items. I started sorta early and made big batches of a few things. </li>
<li>Gifts - a couple very hard to buy for people are getting food this year. Sure it's the easy way out and a little more expensive, but instead of just buying 'stuff' I know they won't use they will receive something they will enjoy and use! </li>
<li>My gift list - it's normally a spreadsheet very detailed, not this year. One little piece with scribbles wrote all over it. Oh and that list that I had for the kids that had everything sorted and organized.... totally lost that. But I decided last night that I'm going to significantly cut down on how many gifts we give them anyhow... which means I already have birthday shopping done. woot! </li>
<li>My <a href="http://andtheycallherblessed.blogspot.com/2013/12/media-fast-part-2.html">media fast</a> is still going on and I am really enjoying it. I am taking the time to let my kids paint, complete crafts, and just enjoy them during this time of year. It's a wonderful opportunity to really explain the season. </li>
</ul>
Our school memory verse for last week was: Phil 4:4 and I have been repeating it many times through out the day and finding joy in the little things. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I will rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say: Rejoice. </i></div>
<br />
Amen. Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-46398623776827553342013-12-12T21:10:00.001-05:002013-12-12T21:10:23.706-05:00Media Fast Part 2<br />
The last Chip Ingram study I did we completed a 48 hour media fast.... a complete and total removal of all media related stuff. It was difficult but wasn't too bad since I knew it was only 48 hours.<br />
<br />
This study.... he's challenging us to do a 10 day media fast. Um... really?<br />
<br />
10 days. 10 long days. I really have no media in my life except the occasional radio station while I'm driving and even then I never listen to an entire song... I'm a scanner :)<br />
<br />
But facebook.... oh facebook, my only connection to the outside world. Other mommies. Friends. Family. LIFE. How am I to grow my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/alongthewaytoblessed">blog</a> page? How am I to grow <a href="http://www.lillarose.biz/jessicabish">Lilla Rose</a> if I'm not on the computer all the time? <br />
<br />
I got to thinking, it would actually be easier to completely walk away from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/alongthewaytoblessed">facebook</a> for awhile. But easier isn't what we want to do. We want hard, difficult, needing Jesus to help us levels. So I'm going to limit myself. I'm going to give myself guidelines and time frames. I'm going to make myself stop at a certain time and walk away. That will be harder.... to make myself walk away each day at maybe two different times then just to shut the computer down and not turn it back on for 10 days.<br />
<br />
Make sense?<br />
<br />
It will involve a lot more will power than what I have, but that's the point. I am to put off the old and put on the new while renewing my mind.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Redeeming the time for the days are evil</i>. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Amen. </div>
<br />
My desire is to spend more time on the floor and couch with my little ones.... reading, playing, creating crafts, playing games, just being with them instead of pushing them away.<br />
<br />
And I can only do it by God's grace and with His help. I'm going to give myself 2 hours a day.... that may seem like a lot or it may seem like a little to some people. But for now it's 2 hours of computer a day - banking, chatting, emailing, etc. I will have to prioritize and manage my time efficiently. I'll be popping in to update you from time to time. <br />
<br />
Anyone want to join in? Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-67172945251500606912013-12-11T07:27:00.000-05:002013-12-11T07:27:44.007-05:00Banana Bread<br />
This is one of my favorite recipes handed down to me from my Gram. I make this bread in large batches and freeze them although I don't know why - they never last that long :)<br />
<br />
<u><b>Banana Bread</b></u><br />
<br />
Cream Together: <br />1 C Shortening<br />
2 C sugar<br />
<br />
Add:<br />4 eggs beaten<br />
2 1/2 C mashed bananas (give or take, I'm pretty liberal with this)<br />
<br />
Combine and slowly add to the above mixture:<br />
4 C flour<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp soda<br />
<br />
*Nathan prefers his to have chocolate chips in, this is where you would gently fold in some additions if you wanted.<br />
<br />
Pour into 2 greased loaf pans. Bake at 325 for 60 minutes or until cake-tester comes out clean. Take out of pan and set on cooling racks to cool.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-family: verdana,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="color: teal;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/alongthewaytoblessed"><span style="color: #cc3300;">Follow me on Facebook</span></a></span></span></span></span></i>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-78244889875960560242013-12-09T07:32:00.000-05:002013-12-09T07:32:09.994-05:00Finding Joy<br />
As we come into a very busy week at our house, followed by another busy week, and then suddenly Christmas I am starting to feel things unravel. I am starting to feel like I'm losing control. but.... I know that I do have control, I just have to grab it. I have to focus on finding joy.<br />
<br />
Here's what our week holds.<br />
<br />
Monday: Daddy at work, late because of holiday party, will miss dinner at home, must stay up and finish church treasury stuff. <br />
Tuesday: Daddy at work, church board meeting in the evening. Will miss bedtime.<br />
Wednesday: Daddy at work, deer hanging in garage that must be cut up and processed, probably will miss bedtime.<br />
Thursday: Daddy off - hunting all day, arrival time is completely dependent on whet,her the crew gets another deer. Which also leads to when he might get to go to sleep. :)<br />
Friday: Same as Thursday.<br />
Saturday: Same as Thursday. <br />
<br />
And that's just his stuff (I still have all my things that I have to do or attend and participate in), but having him gone really makes the week harder on mama for sure. And I don't think it's because I have three children, I think it would feel the same if we only had one. It just that our normal routine is going to be completely off and that makes the entire week rough for families of any size.<br />
<br />
Joy.... about that joy thing. I am trying to focus on the good things and have thanksgiving to see if it helps to brighten my days.<br />
<ul>
<li>I am thankful Daddy has a job and can work AND take off to hunt.</li>
<li>I am thankful for his willingness to serve in the church and take on jobs that no one else wants. </li>
<li>I am thankful for the deer hanging and the prospect of having meat for our family in the coming year.</li>
<li>I am thankful that because Daddy works and hunts I am able to stay home, imagine how bad this week would be if I was also working full-time. By Saturday I'd be in the fetal position. </li>
<li>I am thankful that I am not resentful or angry about the time he spends away from us for good things... there could be a whole lot worse things he could be away from the house for. </li>
<li>I am thankful that he struggles as well - that he too misses us and wishes he could be home but knows that these are things he must do so because of that I try hard to not complain or be grumpy. I try to put a smile on my face and move forward as much as I can. So that the precious few minutes he may have with me or the children and calm and enjoyable, not adding more stress to him already.</li>
<li>I am thankful for my friends and family who support me and do listen to me when I am on the verge of going crazy since I'll be spending almost the entire week alone with 3 children ages 6 and under. :) Oh and this pregnant belly I keep forgetting I have which means I end up overdoing it. blah! </li>
</ul>
How do you find joy in the every day things? Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-85243434938911814192013-12-06T07:28:00.000-05:002013-12-06T07:28:19.808-05:00Working on my heart<br />
There are some days I really wonder what God is up to and what big plan He has in store for me. Not sure if any of you are active in a small group, very intimate bible study with other ladies but I am. And I am SO thankful for them. God has been slowly working and tweaking things in my heart over the past couple months but boy last night. Have you ever had one where you just sat and cried... sobbing cries where you couldn't even talk about what you were crying about?<br />
<br />
Yep happened to me last night.<br />
<br />
But I also learned lots just from sitting and listening to wiser and more experienced women. I realized that it's my choice to feel this way. It's my choice to be depressed and unhappy with things. It's MY choice to do something about it.<br />
<br />
So today I am. I am embracing the day with joy and grace. I am preparing and mentally focusing on a good day. I am going to enjoy my children and the things we do.<br />
<br />
In fact I'm throwing school out the window and we are going to bake Christmas cookies today. And by gosh we're going to enjoy it. ha! :)<br />
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Praying for each of you and the struggle you may be going through today. Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-64183122934374173512013-12-05T06:00:00.000-05:002013-12-05T06:00:11.862-05:00Some DaysI had a dear friend tell me the other day that what she treasures about me is my honesty.... well girls wait till you read this post. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Yesterday on Facebook I posted a link to a blog post called</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"> - <a href="http://hiddenwithyou.com/2013/11/14/desperate-housewives-no-laughing-matter-why-young-mothers-dont-need-god-they-need-help-2/">Desperate Housewives–No Laughing Matter: Why Young Mothers Don’t Need God, They Need Help</a>. It's excellent and I had tears in my eyes while reading it. Even though my blog is supposed to be 'Along the Way to becoming a Proverbs 31 woman' I know that I will NEVER come close to being her. And this post speaks to that directly... that in our culture we are so pressured to be on our own and be responsible for the children we have birthed (I'm not talking about the # of children, just that we had them). There is so little support and encouragement that we often feel very alone during the long days of being home with our babies. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is such a brief section of her post but she could have been reading my inner thoughts exactly:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Once a woman with such a tender outlook on marriage and motherhood,
of being a willing helpmate for a man and raising up precious babes,
slowly over time, warping into an unrecognizable person, inside and out.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>
</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Crying. Weeping. Yelling. Throwing things. Coming closer to
beating my children than I ever thought possible. Sitting on the couch
completely numb. Looking out the window at the woman freely walking her
dog outside, my heart<strong> lusting</strong> after the freedom, of
being able to walk, of being able to leave the house without having to
find shoes, pack a diaper bag, put on coats, buckle little people into
carseats…</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>
</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Years of living–no–not living–SURVIVING.</i></div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">And then while conversing with dear friends on fb about this post I got distracted. About 45 minutes earlier my mom had come over to get something and I thought I heard Naomi wake up from her nap but never came downstairs so I assumed she had fallen back to sleep. As I was walking out to the garage to get dinner out of the freezer (don't judge), I heard something and immediately my stomach dropped. This child is like the ones you only read about.... seriously. I walk upstairs and find her on my dresser covered in lotion and Dr. Scholl's rough heel cream. c.o.v.e.r.e.d. her face, her hair, her clothes, my dresser, everything on my dresser. She immediately covers her face and starts crying. I didn't even have to say anything - there were no words. It was like looking at those pictures of kids who got into baby powder and decorate the room just pure disbelief.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">Let me explain that she was locked in her room for her nap because we've had this issue before when she was supposed to be going to sleep, I thought once she was asleep I was safe to unlock the door. guess not. Again please don't judge... but locking her in her room keeps her safe after some of her prior escapades she's been on while she was supposed to be napping - I think she's part ninja. With having a two story house and two other children I can't exactly sit outside her room for 2 hours while she naps. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">While I don't completely agree with her title - I think we still need God because some ok most days He's the only way I get through it. I think it needs to say that we need Godly women to help us, minister to us, guide and teach us. </span></span>Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-35708936806074353682013-12-04T08:16:00.001-05:002013-12-04T08:16:11.694-05:00Caramel Cinnamon Rolls<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Just a disclaimer upfront - these are not good for you at all! With the calories, processed foods, and amount you will end up eating they are best to be made for groups or taking somewhere. :) </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Caramel Cinnamon Rolls</u></b></div>
<ul>
<li>2 or 3 packages of store bought uncooked cinnamon rolls (those in the tube package)</li>
<li>1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream</li>
<li>1 1/2 cups brown sugar</li>
<li>9x13 baking pan </li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Spray your dish with non-stick spray, and lay your cinnamon rolls upside down in the pan. Whisk the whipping cream and brown sugar until mixed. Pour the liquid mixture over the cinnamon rolls. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until the middle cinnamon rolls are set and cooked through. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Immediately after removing from oven, invert the pan over a nice serving platter or cookie sheet. Be sure to scrap all the gooey goodness from the bottom of the pan onto the cinnamon rolls, leave cool a minute or two (also if you decide to lick the rubber scrapper I warn you that the gooey goodness is HOT!) and serve warm. They are delicious and so easy to make. </div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Sounds like the perfect Christmas morning brunch addition to me :) </div>
Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-74437991097667245372013-12-03T07:18:00.002-05:002013-12-03T07:18:15.343-05:00Baby Update: Week 21<br />
Wow half way there already - this is flying by. I'm feeling pretty good, as Nathan says 'you are in your pregnancy prime' and basically he's right. I have that cute pregnant look - not too big, and not too small where people just try to guess if you ate too much as Thanksgiving. I have energy and motivation to get things done. And I haven't had leg cramps in a couple weeks - I'm doing GREAT! :)<br />
<br />
Not much movement being felt yet which is annoying and bothersome. I feel at this point I should be feeling lots more movement so I try to be patient and not jump to crazy conclusions.... which is very hard because of my dreams I continue to have. Every pregnancy I struggle with some type of theme in my dreams and this time is no exception. Naomi (2 yr old) is currently fighting fifth's disease so that's been a challenge and I had to make a couple phone calls to other preggo women to have blood work done and be checked out. Always something right?<br />
<br />
Life is good right now and we are slowly moving towards accepting our family will be a family of 6 by summer. It's still overwhelming and nerve-wrecking some days but other than that we are excited.<br />
<br />
How about you? How did you deal with an unexpected pregnancy? Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-19402511171794053112013-11-29T01:00:00.000-05:002013-11-29T01:00:02.654-05:00Black Friday Sale - Lilla RoseHello everyone!!<br />
<br />
I am super <i>excited</i> to be a part of this great community and the awesome Black Friday Deals they are having! Starting tonight at Midnight (PST) the following sale is LIVE! <a href="http://www.lillarose.biz/jessicabish">Go here to shop now</a>. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RGPe2RJbu-I/UpU-SHi4reI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/sk0vVWVw8a0/s1600/1475917_10202828545981594_293293610_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RGPe2RJbu-I/UpU-SHi4reI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/sk0vVWVw8a0/s320/1475917_10202828545981594_293293610_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>PLUS - I'm taking the plunge and offering a special deal - When you buy 3 items you will receive 1 item FREE (new customers only, up to $16 value excludes Flexi of the month, the free one will NOT arrive before Christmas). After you have submitted your order (of 3 or more items, remember free shipping over $50) please email me to discuss the selection of your free 4th item. </i></div>
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And if you've ever been interested in joining <a href="http://www.lillarose.biz/jessicabish">Lilla Rose</a> now is the time too! <a href="http://www.lillarose.biz/jessicabish/become-a-consultant.html?id=cuE6zBEB">Sign up here</a>! <br />
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Thank you to everyone who has already placed an order or hosted a party. I really appreciate it. This business will only succeed with God's blessing and I am trying very hard to be patient with that. :) If you'd be so kind as to 'like' my facebook page you'll be kept up-to-date on specials and events... and maybe even a giveaway or two.<br />
<br />
Facebook - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBish.LillaRose">Jessica's Lilla Rose Beauties</a><br />
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Here are some pictures to help you think of different ways to use these beautiful items!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter Wonderland Flexi-of-theMonth in Mini</td></tr>
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<br />Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-75569709048419863012013-11-27T07:10:00.002-05:002013-11-27T07:10:30.471-05:00Buffalo Chicken Soup<br />
One of the few things I really love about winter is soup... pots and pots of soup. Nothing like curling up with a big bowl of hot soup and warm bread, usually after the kids have declared they don't like it and want something else (grilled cheese is served with almost every soup we eat!).<br />
<br />
<u><b>Buffalo Chicken Soup</b></u><br />
<ul>
<li>6 cups Milk</li>
<li>3 cans condensed cream of chicken soup</li>
<li>3 cups cooked shredded chicken</li>
<li>1 cup sour cream</li>
<li>hot sauce to taste</li>
<li>cheddar cheese to taste</li>
</ul>
*I prefer a thicker soup so I will add some instant potato flakes to thicken the soup to the consistency that I like.<br />
<br />
Add milk, soup, chicken to large pot and bring to a simmer, add sour cream, hot sauce, and cheddar cheese and heat through.<br />
<br />
Serve with crushed tortilla chips placed on top of the soup. <br />
<br />
Delicious! This is also a great soup because my husband can easily add more hot sauce for his liking. Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-64390398082196289152013-11-25T21:25:00.000-05:002013-11-25T21:25:12.286-05:00Little Mini Vacation<br />
We just returned from a nice little mini vacation about 4 hours or so.... my oldest two children are upstairs jumping on the beds and being wild, my husband and youngest have been in bed for almost and hour and half - my baby is sick and not herself. :( She spiked a fever and has been wanting to sleep all evening - Nathan figured if she was sleeping now about 2am she'll be up and ready to start the day so one of us should go to bed with her. Guess who won? :)<br />
<br />
We were celebrating something this month (more on that later) and decided to get away for a couple days, a friend hooked us up and we were able to get a great deal on a rental out in Lancaster, PA! My mom, gram, two nieces, and best friend and her two little ones and her MIL also came along. We went into this weekend trying to be relaxed and focused on family time. <br />
<br />
Friday night we went to see the Miracle of Christmas at Sights and Sounds and it was amazing, all three children did great and we were so thankful that they all made it through without too much trouble (wish I would have brought ear plugs for Lydia, and Josiah was terrified of the fire). Then it was bedtime... and everything went downhill from there. <br />
<br />
My children have never slept with us, maybe once or twice over the past 6 years, but it's not even close to the norm. They each have their own rooms, they each sleep pretty well the majority of the time and they enjoy their personal space which is great. Until you travel and suddenly they have to sleep with each other, in the same room, with us - doesn't go so great. at. all. ugh. We seriously got no sleep Friday night - well I'll rephrase that. My husband got no sleep Friday night - he took the brunt of it with Naomi and I was able to get some sleep, he's pretty awesome that way. <br />
<br />
Saturday came way too early and we have big plans for the entire day, went to Hershey World for the free tour and had a great time, went through that twice! Met up with dear old friends we haven't seen in a very long time and enjoyed a great lunch with them (minus the one time I had to take Josiah out to the van for a time-out). Then headed to Indian Echo Caverns for a tour - which while it was nice just really wasn't my 'thing' and my Gram started having some issues with her hip so we were worried how in the world we were going to get her back up to the top but thankfully she ended up doing ok with a couple pit stops. :) At 4:00 when we left to head back home and Josiah & Naomi both fell asleep and then continued to sleep until 5:30/6:00 on either Nathan or I we should have known bedtime was not going to go well. And it didn't. Not at all. By that point my dear husband was also way past tired and fighting a horrible headache so I took Naomi duty and locked her in the living room with me - eventually she fell asleep behind the recliner on the floor but hey she was sleeping!<br />
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We did find a very quaint and wonderful <a href="http://millcreekbible.com/">church</a> for Sunday morning - it was perfect and just what we needed to regroup and refocus on our time together. (I highly recommend listening to the sermon online if you can.) Came back to the house, ate some yummy snacks prepared by my Gram and got all the children to lay down for a nap and then my bestie, my gram, and her MIL took off to do some shopping - it was freezing but a wonderful time and recharged us! God was with us and Sunday night actually went really well and the kids all slept better! Just in time for us to leave and come home. ha!<br />
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And then tonight when we got home poor Naomi came down with a fever... always something right? So even though the weekend didn't go exactly how we hoped or as well as we would have liked it really was a great weekend and one of those you want to focus on the good things and not the bad things because if you did - well you'd never leave again. Oh and this next baby - yes he will sleep with us just so when we travel we don't have those issues... just to see if it makes a difference. hee hee<br />
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I am so thankful for our trip and the memories we made plus the special time with extended family and friends!<br />
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<i>Join us for Gratituesday at <a href="http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/category/gratituesday">Heavenly Homemakers</a>!</i>
<i><br /></i>
<i><span style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-family: verdana,geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="color: teal;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/alongthewaytoblessed"><span style="color: #cc3300;">Follow me on Facebook</span></a></span></span></span></span></i>
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Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-70670657438553311252013-11-21T06:43:00.001-05:002013-11-21T06:44:02.007-05:00The Exodus Road<br />
whew... last week I reviewed The Long Awakening.... it was a hard read but <i>nothing</i> like this book. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/061586435X/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=061586435X&linkCode=as2&tag=lieadafogo-20">The Exodus Road: One Wife's Journey Into Sex Trafficking and Rescue</a>
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This book is written by a missionary wife whose husband feels that he is being called to enter brothels and bars to help rescue young girls and ladies who are forced into sex slavery. She is honest and forthright in her and her & his struggles of this type of mission work. They are not heroes or trying to appear as heroes, they are everyday people who were burdened and called to step out in faith.... big time. <br />
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From the book:<br />
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<address>
It was 9 p.m., and though I should have been tired, adrenaline had kicked in.</address>
<address>
</address>
<address>
Tonight Matt was going out again.</address>
<address>
</address>
<address>
This time, alone.</address>
<address>
</address>
<address>
The idea was to ask a <i>tuk-tuk</i> (motorcycle taxi) driver
for young girls and see where he led. The plan made both of us nervous
and would have been far better if it involved backup—a partner to go
with Matt or to at least track him remotely.</address>
<address>
</address>
<address>
But we’d already asked everyone we knew and had found no takers.</address>
<address>
</address>
<address>
“You shouldn’t be doing this by yourself,” we’d heard from friends, missionaries, humanitarian workers.</address>
<address>
</address>
<address>
“Then come with me,” Matt had said to each.</address>
<address>
</address>
<address>
“No, no I couldn’t do that,” was the usual reply.</address>
<address>
</address>
<address>
And we got it, we did. There are a million reasons why
upstanding moral men don’t belong in strip clubs. A million. There are
marriages, triggers and dangers. There are reputations to protect and
pitfalls to avoid. There are entire organizations whose work might
crumble if they sanctioned undercover work in brothels.</address>
<address>
</address>
<address>
Yet,<i> yet.</i></address>
<address>
</address>
<address>
We still couldn’t get away from this idea that if it were our
daughter, we’d want someone to go looking for her, want someone,
somewhere, to fight for her rescue—regardless of the red tape or danger.</address>
<address>
</address>
<address>
We couldn’t get past the idea that maybe there<i> was </i>a noble reason for a good man to frequent a brothel, after all.</address>
<address>
<b> </b></address>
<address>
<b>Excerpt,</b> “The Exodus Road: One Wife’s Journey into Sex Trafficking and Rescue” by Laura Parker. All Rights Reserved.</address>
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And yet she's also clear that just because she isn't comfortable with something doesn't mean that they can't or shouldn't be doing it. (sounds familiar in my life lately) She asks the question 'if it was your daughter or even son being sold for sex to men how hard would you want people to fight for them? what would YOU do to help save them?' ouch. <br />
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I know sometimes it's easier to just put your head in the sand and ignore that this truly does happen, even here in the USA... I just read a story about two ladies being rescued in FL - they were being held against their will and being sold by their 'boyfriends' - one lady had almost 30 token by her bedside - counting the number of men she served <i><u>that day</u></i>. But that is NOT what Jesus called us to do. He did not call us to ignore the hurting or the suffering but to step out into the unknown and help others only those who are still here physically can be saved spiritually.<br />
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There are a couple ways you can help out and enter to win your own copy below (and when you're done reading it - please pass it along to someone else - help spread the word!)<br />
<ul>
<li>enter below to win a copy of this book and have your eyes opened</li>
<li>Check out <a href="https://www.theexodusroad.com/">The Exodus Road</a> and see what they are doing </li>
<li>if you're able commit to supporting what they do - get more information <a href="http://sarahmae.com/bravo/">here</a>. This is <a href="http://sarahmae.com/bravo/">Sarah Mae's</a> page and her commitment to helping what they do. She's only looking for 142 more ladies to sign up to be an <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2013/06/why-you-are-where-you-are-for-such-a-time-as-this/">Esther</a>. </li>
<li>and if you any of those above please least commit to praying for these young women and men and the men who are risking their lives to try and rescue them. My burden is great but my money is small right now. I can use my voice and the resources God has entrusted to me to share their story with others. But I can also pray and petition our Lord to keep everyone safe and that they might find HIS redeeming love. </li>
</ul>
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<br />Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-777314436517341072013-11-19T06:08:00.000-05:002013-11-19T06:08:00.771-05:00Sarah Mae MeetingI wrote this post many days ago - soon after I came home from Allume. I still feel the exact same way as I did then. Thank you to my new friend. :)<br />
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One of the highlights of my time at the conference was the chance to finally get to meet miss <a href="http://www.sarahmae.com/">Sarah Mae</a>. I saw her many times Thursday evening and right at the end of the night I got to introduce myself. We are both from the same state and a couple years ago we tried to meet up at a homeschooling convention but it didn't work out. I adore her, her blog, and I may have promoted one or two of her books from time to time. :)<br />
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Friday morning started off with me being particularly weepy for some reason, when I got there early for breakfast I saw Sarah Mae running around, I had thankfully tucked her book into my bag hoping to see her so she could sign it. Bingo! I asked her and her response 'how about I just sit with you at breakfast and we can chat'. Seriously???? I thought I was weepy before... it's a surprise I wasn't a blubbering mess in my french toast. We had a great time chatting (you know just like old friends) and her hubby joined us as well. We had a nice chuckle over our 'dumb' phone when it came time to snap a picture of us - thankfully her husband came through with his 'smartphone'. :)<br />
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The next day I noticed her running around at lunch and she seemed pretty distracted, so I asked her if all was ok and if she needed anything - actually they were looking for volunteers to fold boxes for the Shoebox Ministry... um I would scrub toilets with you if you needed! So off I went - seriously me, Sarah Mae, her sister, and her husband just sitting around folding boxes and chatting. I'm surprised they didn't have to mop me up off the floor! What I loved was how down to earth and gentle they were... and how much they love God. It truly just shone in their faces.... the love of Christ for each one there.<br />
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Later I also saved the day for her by carrying a binder clip with me but you know by then we were old buddies. :)<br />
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I know this is an entire post dedicated to meeting one lady... but what made the events stick out to me what how she treated me with the same love and joy as she did her best buddy Logan. She truly made me feel special and loved - part of the family - a sister in Christ! And it made me think about how I treated others there too - we were all sisters and we should all be treated with the same respect. I was taught so much from her in just those few short times of fellowship. God is good and He's even better when you're serving Him - never pass up an opportunity to serve - you never know who you might get to serve with. :)<br />
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<b><i>***Update: </i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
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<b><i>The winner is Jake-Liz Polka!!! Congrats. I'll have an easy time getting it to her! :) hope you enjoy it. If you're interested in purchasing this book the link is below. It's a good read - I promise. </i></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0800718763/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0800718763&linkCode=as2&tag=lieadafogo-20">Long Awakening, The: A Memoir</a><br />
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This is just one of the many books I received at Allume - I read this book during our long drive home Sunday. It probably wasn't the best book to read as it's about a lady who gives birth and then shortly after has some major emergency complications and spend the next 47 days in a medically induced coma and then a couple months of recovery and rehab. It's her memoir of recovery and putting together the puzzle of what happened while she was missing from life. <br />
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Nathan kept trying to convince me to put it away since I started crying about 2 pages in to it.<br />
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But not once in the entire book did I feel bad for her or was sad for her.... the hardest part I had reading was the sharing of what her husband and other children were going through while she was in the coma. Yes she suffered but she had no idea she was suffering.... oh the emotions of her family just about made me want to throw the book out the window while driving down the road. I cried so many tears over her distraught husband. I'll be honest and say sometimes when I think about if something would happen to me I don't even consider what I would be missing but I think about what the rest of my family would go through and that will send me into near panic mode about having everything taken care of so it's easier on them.....cause knowing where the bills are all filed is going to make it easier on Nathan? no I didn't think so either.<br />
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There were two sections of the book that that really stuck out to me. One made me believe that they had a much stronger faith than what was portrayed in the book, one I wish they would have expanded more on. She spoke of not caring what others said to her or about her as long as the glory went back to God. And that is oh so true.<br />
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The second really revealed her honesty in dealing with being a 'miracle' and not being as excited as others:<br />
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<i>"A miracle at the hand of God. A miracle that could not be explained any other way. A miracle because people had prayed, and God had say yes. A miracle that I'd missed." pg 125 </i></div>
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I do recommend this book - it was a pretty easy read but one you still had to pay attention to while reading so you didn't miss anything. I am a pro at skimming while reading so I really liked what this book did to me and forcing me to slow down while reading. But it was also a 'hard' read because my heart broke for her and her family so often, if you like a happy ending then this book is for you :)<br />
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I'm giving away my copy of it - enter below~</div>
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<br />Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-72146666701140989222013-11-12T15:24:00.000-05:002013-11-12T15:24:42.458-05:00Cream of Broccoli Soup<br />
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I know 'they' always say that you aren't supposed to try a new recipe when you have company coming over but I'm blessed that 1) the recipe turned out good and 2) I have good friends who didn't mind trying something new. :)<br />
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Cream of Broccoli Soup <br />
<ul>
<li>1 T onion chopped</li>
<li>2 T butter</li>
<li>1/2 C flour</li>
<li>1 C Milk</li>
<li>Quart Chicken Stock</li>
<li>1/8 t pepper</li>
<li>1/2 t garlic powder</li>
<li>10 oz chopped broccoli</li>
<li>1/2 - 1 C cheese (depending on preference)</li>
</ul>
Saute onions in butter in large stock pot. Once onions are soft, whisk in flour, and then slowly whisk in milk to flour mixture. Bring to a slow boil and let thicken to desired consistency. Add chicken stock, pepper, garlic powder, and broccoli. (*Side note - I used fresh broccoli I had steamed earlier, after I let it cook for awhile I used my <a href="http://andtheycallherblessed.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-tip-to-expand-meal.html">favorite kitchen tool</a> and chopped it more.) Once it has come to a boil, reduce to a simmer and add cheese. Cook until melted, service with warm bread, crackers, or cornbread muffins. yum yum!<br />
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Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-71541146511010911352013-11-07T08:02:00.002-05:002013-11-07T08:02:37.044-05:00A New Adventure<br />
Well I did it. I signed up for <a href="http://www.lillarose.biz/JessicaBish">Lilla Rose</a>. I sold Avon ages ago when I worked outside the home and I loved it - I truly did... I also never made any money off of it because I wasn't aggressive enough and I loved a good deal. :) I just really enjoyed the interaction with others and the way it always gave you something to talk about with just about anyone. I mean who hasn't bought, sold, or used Avon at some point in their lives? <br />
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But I've been wanting to find something that I loved and believed in. I wanted to have something that was 'mine' and that I could maybe bring a couple extra dollars into the house for those rainy days or special treats.<br />
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So I <a href="http://www.lillarose.biz/JessicaBish">signed up</a>!<br />
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I'm super excited but don't worry - I won't be pushing these products on you. I believe they truly sell themselves once you see them in use and I will wait for contact from those who are interested. But saying that - today starts a special 24 hour sale plus free shipping on orders of $30 or more.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.lillarose.biz/JessicaBish">Happy Shopping! </a></b></span></div>
<br />Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4996056372564743797.post-68389414753296750592013-11-06T06:00:00.000-05:002013-11-06T06:00:04.804-05:00'IHOP' Pancakes<br />
I have no idea where I got this recipe from and I don't know if they taste like IHOP's pancakes but they are our families favorite.<br />
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IHOP Pancakes<br />
<ul>
<li>1 1/4 C Flour</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>1 1/2 C Buttermilk (or a couple drops of lemon juice and milk to equal 1 1/2 C - leave sit for awhile to mix together)</li>
<li>1/4 C sugar</li>
<li>1 heaping T baking powder</li>
<li>1 t baking soda</li>
<li>1/4 C oil</li>
<li>1/4 t salt</li>
</ul>
Mix in either blender or with hand mixer. Leave sit for 30 minutes or so before using. Making 8-10 pancakes. They are so yummy. We enjoy these for both breakfast and dinner.<br />
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Also if you are looking for any of the older recipes I've posted - bookmark this page '<a href="http://andtheycallherblessed.blogspot.com/p/recipes.html">Recipes</a>' I realized while updating it I have 3 mac & cheese recipes posted.... hmmm can you tell we like pasta in our house? :) Jessica Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03500048689570388757noreply@blogger.com0