Friday, November 28, 2008

Friday, November 28, 2008

Daily Agenda:

1. 11:30 pm: (Thursday): Go to bed

2. 4:00 am: Get up (yes, that is only 4 hours of sleep because I was in a new bed and didn't fall asleep right away).

3. 4:05 am: Brush hair, brush teeth, put contacts in, change to clean undies (too tired and no time for a full relaxing shower!).

4. 4:15 am: Get in car and drive off.

5. 4:20 ish am: Get to Starbucks...order a Venti, Peppermint Mocha, Extra with No Whip and have the cutesy wide-awake Barista ask me, "You mean no peppermint whip cream on that peppermint twist?" Well, I guess if I had wanted whip I would have asked for it.

6. 4:30--4:40 am: Drive to Walmart, park, look at the lines and think, "Am I crazy?" and then go join to line of other crazies waiting to get in.

7. 5:00 am: Do the shuffle walk/run with carts like the other Walmart lemmings in hopes of snagging that great big buy that no one else really wants, right? WRONG!!! I'm glad I go there for the deals, but I keep my expectations low and realistic...no grbbing an $88 dollar Barbie Jeep, or a $200 TV or laptop. Nope, I go for the $2 movies, the picture frames, the $9 flash drive...ya know the small stuff that ends up totaling over $100...how did that happen.

8. 5:40 am: Get in line to check out.

9. 5:50 am: Still standing in line wondering how I always pick the slow cashier and wondering if anyone in Vancouver, WA was raised with any manners? Yes, you there..the 30 something year old in the gray sweatshirt...yes you! If you find it necessary to push past me and my cart do you think you could at least say excuse me and not show my cart into the person behind me? I respond well to excuse me's, please and thank yous. I don't respond well to A$$ holes like you...CHEER UP...it's almost Christmas. I hope you got want to you were so anxiously rushing off towards...but let me tell you, if you are just coming in the store at 5:50 am, you have missed out on the doorbusters!

**Side Note** If you decide to get your butt out of bed at 3 am to drive to stores, stand in line and then fight the crowds to get the best deals...please do not drag your young innocent children into this mess with you. There is no reason why you can't leave them with Dad (he donated the sperm, I think he is capable of watching his own offspring), or Nana/GMA/Grandma (whatever you call that cutesy lady who kisses you on the lips and bakes yummy stuff!); and if they aren't available pay the 12 year old Betsy down the street to come sleep on your couch for a few hours...you know your kids would rather be sleeping than shopping! **End of Rant**

10. 6:15 am: Finally get through the check out line...load up my car and off to the next store...TARGET!

11. 6:25--6:30 am: Show up at Target and thank the parking gods for the parking spot two spots in on the row right in front of the door.

12. 6:30--?? am: Wander the store analyzing what I do and don't need...buy a few movies (including Annie and a Lady Antebellum CD for myself of course). Move through the organized and fairly fast paced check out line and out the door.

13. 7:15 am (I think...I've kind of lost track of time at this point as I am so tired!): Drive over to Craft Warehouse...now I'm not usually allowed in these stores because I am there only to buy for myself and I really don't need anymore scrap/craft stuff; HOWEVER, I had to! That's right...I was forced into Craft Warehouse by the angry mob trying to get in behind me...ok, so maybe I was the mob forcing myself through the front door....ok, ok, ok no FORCE...I deliberately chose to walk through the front door of my own free will!

14: 7:30--8:00 am: First of all, find a bathroom..have to pee, have to pee!!! Then I wander the store...no agenda...no pressing needs. Turn around the corner and BAM!! There in front of me is a gorgeous wrought iron plate hanger for the wall that holds three plates...and with my 40% off coupon it only cost $11...YEAH ME!! Buy just a few more things.

15. 8:15 am: Drag myself back to my Mom's house...check my email and facebook.

16. 8:45 am: Go back to bed!!!!

17. 1:00 pm: Wake up and shower!

WOW! I kept telling myself (and I subconsciously have Marcie's voice in my ear....even though I know you don't begrudge me my shopping...but I still hear your sense and sensibility on shopping) that I am crazy for even thinking about getting up early and going shopping on Black Friday, but yet I still did it. I have to say though that I didn't jump on the Black Friday bandwagon until last year...so this isn't something I do ALL the time.

This year I even did it all by myself! My Mom was going to come with but her back was hurting and she had to work this afternoon...if I was her I probably would have slept too!

Now I'm off to spend the next few hours reading magazines and books at Borders. Bliss!

Happy Black Friday to all the other crazy shoppers out there!

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Thanksgiving Blessings

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Remember to count your blessings today!

Driving home today:

Me: "Mason, what are you thankful for?"

Mason: "God. And Food. And God."

Me: "Are you thankful for anything else?"

Mason: "Yes, God and food" (I kind of got the impression that Mason thinks God provides our food...which he does!)

Me: "Yes, God is a good thing to be thankful for. Do you know what thankful means?"

Mason: "It means that we thank them and they love us."

Me: "So are you thankful for anything else....like..Mom or Dad?"

Mason: "Yes, because they protect me. And God...and food!"


There you have it...God and food...the top two things to be thankful for this Thanksgiving!


Monday, November 24, 2008

12th Day of Christmas Giveaways



Today she is giving away a totally cute bag and a bloggie makeover...I really, really, really want to get a bloggie makeover...I have ideas but don't know how to "write" the bloggy formatting language...maybe this is my chance!

I love me some CONTESTS!!

And I know you do too! This fun site-Tip Junkie-is doing a fantastic Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon Giveaway. So whatcha waiting for? Go Enter! Now! Go!

Sunday, November 23, 2008

It's Hark, NOT Mark!

Maddy singing: "Mark the Herald Angels sing, Glory...."

Me: "Maddy, it's hark, not mark."

Maddy: "OK!"

Maddy singing: "Mark the Herald Angels sing...."

Me: "Maaadddy! It's Hark not Mark"

Maddy: "OK, OK!"

Maddy singing: "Mark the Herald Angels"

Me: "STOP! Sing it right!!! It's Hark. Do you even know what hark means?"

Maddy: "Nope"

Maddy: "Mark the Herald Angels Sing"

I give up!

Saturday, November 22, 2008

10th and 11th Day of Christmas Giveaways...



Don't forget to go there EVERY DAY!!!!

I love me some CONTESTS!! And I know you do too! This fun site-Tip Junkie-is doing a fantastic Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon Giveaway. So whatcha waiting for? Go Enter! Now! Go!

Road Trip Calling My Name

Oh SuuuuuuuuSaaaaaaaaaNaaaaaaa!!!

Can you hear me yelling at you (in NC) all the way from WA State????

OMG!! I have discovered the perfect road trip...and come hell or high water (or Jesus coming back!) Susana and I are going.

**SIDE NOTE** Don't you love BFF's that plan things then tell you about it later???

Ok...last night on HGTV they were showcasing what people found at a garage sale! Not just an ordinary garage sale mind you, but a FOUR day garage sale covering FIVE states over SIX hundred miles of garage sales. Oh be still my heart...I thought I might have died and gone to garage sale heaven! It is called the Endless Garage Sale of 127 (127 being the highway).

This thing goes from Ohio to Alabama! Next year, 2009, it is running from August 6--9th, and I want to be there! I figure I can fly to NC (with empty suitcases of course), met up with my BFF Susana and drive from there! Whatcha think?

Doable?

Enjoyable?

FanFREAKINtastic is what I say!

Look...we can stop at this nifty coffee shop...I'm sure it's no Cafe Espana...but is COFFEE when you are driving the ENDLESS GARAGE SALE!

So BFF are you in? Or are you shaking your head thinking, "How the heck did God give me a BFF like Rachel!"

Friday, November 21, 2008

Hallelujah for Contested Court Hearings!

I received a traffic ticket a month or so ago for failure to stop at a stop sign.

The officer stated that I 'rolled' through the sign.

I disagreed with him.

I contested the ticket.

I was sworn in under oath at 10:23 am this morning that my testimony was true.

I gave my explanation.

Case DISMISSED!

I like that Judge...he's a swell guy (swell...just a funny word when describing someone. Does it mean that it is blown-up? Just a thought).

Here is my thought about the court clerk I met last week when preparing for this court date today...as said in a letter (because that's what the SITS are doing today...SITS? Yeah they are a bunch of FANTASTIC ladies who go blog to blog showering bloggy love):

Dear Ms. Court Clerk Lady of the Grant County Court in Moses Lake, WA

I appeared in at the court clerk desk in person to fill out paperwork to subpoena the officer who gave me my ticket, as I have a court date next week to contest the ticket.

After waiting five minutes, with no one in line and you and your co-worker making no acknowlegdement of my being at your desk, I proceeded to tell you what I needed. You told me that you didn't have this form and couldn't help me.

I was amazed! The contested hearing paper I received made the following statement:

"If you wish to subpoena a witness, you must apply to the court in person at least 10 days prior to the hearing."


I re-asked, after reading the above statement to you, if the form was available. Again, you told me no. You then went on to tell me that I had to research it on my own, find the form online and then submit it. Then you proceeded to hand me a handout entitled: "Information Available from District Court Employees". Under the column of what District Court Staff can do, it states: "Provide court-approved or required forms or tell you where you can find forms."

Do you not read the handout you gave me? Do you not know what court approved forms are? Are you always a B#@$&...oops, did I say that out loud!?!

I understand that you might have had a bad day. I understand you might even be overworked. I understand that you might not have been complete directions on how to do your job properly. But PUH-LEASE!

Your kindness and overwhelming show of understanding made me feel a whole lot better. In fact, it made me feel so good that I am actually considering sending this letter to the Grant County Court in real life and not just in bloggy life!

I hope that your day gets better....at least my day did. Did I tell you my ticket was dismissed even without your help? Of course not, because the form you gave me said, "district court staff cannot tell you what decision the judge will make or what sentence the judge will impose" so I guess it works both ways...you don't talk to me and I won't talk to you!.

Happy Friday,

Rachel Ann



Happy Early Birthday Quentin!

This is my "nephew" Quentin...his Momma, Sarah, is one of my good friends from college! He is going to be 1 on December 17th...isn't he cute?

Sorry the pictures are grainy...they are once again taken with my camera phone! When I was on the other side of the mountains last weekend Sarah and I went out to lunch after church...of course we went to Red Robin (we always go to RR together). Quentin was given a balloon to play with and he had a blast!
Reaching for that elusive balloon!


Look Momma, I got it!


Now isn't that just one of the cutest babies you've ever seen? He's one of those babies that have those big apple cheeks that make you want to pinch him and squeeze him...hmm, I think I might have done just that!
He is a great baby...we were at RR for almost two hours and he was great the whole time!
Happy Birthday Quentin!
I love you...Auntie Rachel



Free Jewelry?

I found a link through one of the websites I stalk about FREE jewelry! At first, I clicked on it a bit sceptically thinking that no one is going to give out FREE jewlery. But I guess this place does...Sterling Silver jewelry to be exact! They only ask that you pay the shipping/handling of $6.99 and you have to pay that per piece...still not a bad deal considering how much jewelry is these days.

Nina, again, I thought of you when I say this site!

Easy way to get some Christmas presents out of the way or even buy for friends you might not have before!

Thursday, November 20, 2008

9th Day of Christmas Giveaways...




Today is day and she is giving away a totally cute customized Super-Hero cape for your little one and this totally cute and chic piggy bank!

**NINA--The first person I thought of when I saw today's prizes was Bella!**

Don't forget to go there EVERY DAY!!!!

I love me some CONTESTS!! And I know you do too! This fun site-Tip Junkie-is doing a fantastic Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon Giveaway. So whatcha waiting for? Go Enter! Now! Go!

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Skinny Cow Coupons

**Insert Side Note Here**

I totally LIED!

I went to buy my dippers tonight and they are 2 boxes for $9....not the 2 for $6 as I wrote about below! Sheesh...but still with the coupon, I only spent $7.50...when one box is usually $7.00.

Soooo Sorry I lied...do you forgive me?


At the CKC convention this last weekend, Skinny Cow was giving away FREE (remember, that is one of my favorite words in the English Language!) samples of their Skinny Dippers...I chose mint flavored every time..yum, yum, yum!!!
They also handed out little booklets with a coupon on the back of each...
The coupon is for $1.50 off when you buy 2 boxes of Skinny Cow Dippers....
I was at Safeway last night and Skinny Dippers are on sale...2 for $6.00 (I think that was the right price...it was like a $2.50-$3.00 savings)...then if you were to use your coupon then they would only be 2 for $4.50...just a little over $2 a box!
So if you got a coupon this last weekend...go to Safeway and use it (hint, hint Barbara and Holly!)

8th Day of Christmas Giveaways...




Today is day 8 and she is giving away a Baby Snuggly and fun fabric!

Don't forget to go there EVERY DAY!!!!

I love me some CONTESTS!! And I know you do too! This fun site-Tip Junkie-is doing a fantastic Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon Giveaway. So whatcha waiting for? Go Enter! Now! Go!

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Life in a Small Town...

Usually, when one lives in a small town such as the one I live in...you would normally run into fields of these....

Nope, these aren't the famous California cows...they are just cows that STINK!!! Why is it that cows smell so awful! ugh..
One would more than likely see these scattered across town too....


Yep, run down trailer parks!

Don't let me offend you...I know that people need homes to live in...I get that! But seriously, they do bring down the property value just a wee bit. Especially if your name is Bubba and your wife's name is Babs and you have 5 or more cars parked outside (that don't run), a bathtub in the front yard and dogs running around barking...
Around my small town in Eastern Washington you see an overabundance of this....

Wheat fields..

However, living in America and proud to be employed...oh wait, there are tons of wheat fields laying dormant because the farmers have been PAID NOT TO FARM!!!!

How can we say we have food shortages when the government pays our farmers NOT TO WORK...ok, that wasn't what I was intending to write about, but that issue bugs me a bit.

And of course, all small towns have this....



Wally's World! They sneak in in the middle of the night and suck up all the small businesses and convince your small town that they are the only store needed, thus keeping your shopping choices to a minimum!
yes, i stole all these pictures from the Internet...that is why we have Internet right? Right!

There are other ways of telling if you are from a small town.

Case in point!

I was on my way back to work from lunch at Rachel's Cafe (yum, we had hamburgers and fries!) when I heard a Christmas commercial on the radio advertising for Christmas shopping. The store in the commercial?

The local PAWN SHOP!

Yep, that's right...you too can go to the local pawn shop and buy those special gifts for Mom, Dad, kids, grandkids, and the fellow in the state prison! Seriously, what is up with that?


7th Day of Christmas Giveaways...



Today is day 7 and she is giving away a really cute Christmas decoration!


Don't forget to go there EVERY DAY!!!!


I love me some CONTESTS!! And I know you do too! This fun site-Tip Junkie-is doing a fantastic Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon Giveaway. So whatcha waiting for? Go Enter! Now! Go!

Monday, November 17, 2008

6th Day of Christmas Giveaways....Having Fun!



Today is day 6

Don't forget to go there EVERY DAY!!!!

I love me some CONTESTS!! And I know you do too! This fun site-Tip Junkie-is doing a fantastic Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon Giveaway. So whatcha waiting for? Go Enter! Now! Go!

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Claim Jumper


You've heard me say this before...but I love life outside of Moses Lake! One of the reasons is because of the multitude of restaurants to choose from when going out to dinner....ohhh....yum yum! On Saturday night we decided to go out to dinner to Claim Jumper at Redmond Town Center. If you haven't been to Claim Jumper...you need to go...it is FABuLOUS!

This is Shannon, Holly's cousin from Oregon. She is an avid scrapper, teacher (both real school and scrapping stuff!) and she travels all the way up from OR for this every year...but then again, we travel down to Portland in March for the CKC there.

Barbara...Aren't you excited that we introduced to this wonderful world of crafting and TOOLS!?!!Me!!! I love this little brown shrug...I found it on CLEARANCE for $6...what a deal!

Look...it's Miss Elly and her Momma Holly. Elly didn't want too much to do with Auntie Rachel this weekend...it's a good thing I have healthy self-esteem and understand babies don't always do too well outside of home...because every time I held her she screamed!

but I STILL LOVE HER!!!

CKC New Friends

One of the classes I volunteered in this weekend was the SEI class taught by Connie Hastings! The other volunteer, Leta, and I got to talk to Connie quite a bit and she is a fun person to get to know! She made the class fun to take for all the students and was a blast to TA for!

I love meeting new people and making friends!

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Beware: Dajia took these Pictures!

I came back to my sister's house tonight after being at the CK convention and sat down at the computer for the time in a few days...I spent a few minutes on here last night...but fell asleep!

One of the things I wanted to do tonight was upload some pictures of my weekend...well, Dajia saw the camera and wanted to take some pictures of her own...so here you go!

I saw this one and said oh you took a picture of Auntie's feet, to which she promptly replied (like a true fashionita)..., "No, those are my shoes!"

The TV of course! We are watching some cartoon about Arthur and the Invisible People...it has Freddy Highmore in it who I really like.

Of course, me on the computer.

Dajia thought you needed to see her Momma and Daddy!

Of course...I'm her favorite Auntie....Well, until she comes to visit and she loves Shannon's house because that is where Mason and Maddy are!

5th Day of Christmas Give Aways



Today's giveaway is some cute purses!

Don't forget to go there EVERY DAY!!!!

I love me some CONTESTS!! And I know you do too! This fun site-Tip Junkie-is doing a fantastic Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon Giveaway.

So whatcha waiting for? Go Enter! Now! Go!

Friday, November 14, 2008

4th Day of Christmas Giveaways!



Don't forget to go there EVERY DAY!!!!

I love me some CONTESTS!! And I know you do too! This fun site-Tip Junkie-is doing a fantastic Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon Giveaway.

So whatcha waiting for? Go Enter! Now! Go!

Thursday, November 13, 2008

The 3rd Day of Christmas Contest!



Don't forget to go there EVERY DAY!!!!

I love me some CONTESTS!! And I know you do too! This fun site-Tip Junkie-is doing a fantastic Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon Giveaway.

So whatcha waiting for? Go Enter! Now! Go!

CK Convention

I'm in Bellevue (well, really Issaquah) tonight in preparation for this weekend's scrapbook convention sponsored by Creating Keepsakes. I've been going to this convention for years...there are classes to take and a huge vendor fair to walk around and look at new products, get ideas, create make-n-takes and buy, buy, buy!!! I really don't spend that much money while there...more than $25 but less than $50...I really do go keeping my spending habits in check!

It helps that I TA for the convention and for every four hours I volunteer I get a $30 voucher to spend at the CK store. And then the teachers I TA for tend to give the class kit to us for free! In years past I have walked away with close to $300 in FREE product. And all of you know how much I love FREE stuff.

Side Note: Work has gotten super busy this week, so my cruising around blogville during the day has diminished greatly! I love visiting people, but it may take me awhile to visit you...please have patience!


Super Side Note: Love all you SITS girls who keep coming over and sharing bloggy love with me! I LOVE comments, almost as much as I LOVE FREE stuff! I also LOVE my regular faithful friends that have been with my blog since the beginning!

Commissioned Watercolor Portrait GIVEAWAY!!!!

Commissioned Watercolor Portrait GIVEAWAY!!!!

Nordic Bo Peep and Long Lost Sheep Costume GIVEAWAY!!!!

Nordic Bo Peep and Long Lost Sheep Costume GIVEAWAY!!!!

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

12 Days of Christmas Giveaway!



I love me some CONTESTS!! And I know you do too! This fun site-Tip Junkie-is doing a fantastic Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon Giveaway.

So whatcha waiting for? Go Enter! Now! Go!

Monday, November 10, 2008

Yummy Pot of Goodness...

My favorite thing to make the last few weeks is homemade chicken noodle soup with dumplings!


Here is my lovely pot of soup...whole chicken cooked with cloves of garlic...then de-skinne and deboned. Add in carrots, celery and onions (I personally don't use any spices and it still tastes great!). After the vegetables cook a bit I add in noodles and then I add dumplings!


Here is my yummy pot of goodness with dumplings!!


I half the recipe on the Bisquick box for dumplings for one person...however, even halved there is enough dumplings for two...wanna come over for dinner sometime?!?


And here is how my yummy pot of goodness translates into a yummy bowl of soup!


So delicious on a cold fall evening!

Saturday, November 08, 2008

I Got Gas!

No silly! Not that kind of GAS!!

I got the kind you put in my cute little car Sadie, the Saturn Ion!

I paid this last night per gallon of gas! Unbelievable!


Do you totally love the green lights? It looks like it is from outer space! Plus, you have got to love camera phones...pictures anytime, anywhere...although I'm sure I probably shouldn't use it at the gas station!

Here is the grand total of what I spent last night! Usually I let my car get down even further, but I'm going out of town to Grandma's house today so I needed to fill it. I think I have a 10 gallon tank, so it still would have only cost me $20 to fill up if it had been empty!



Any bets on how long this price drop in gas is going to last? I almost feel like I should buy as many gas tanks as possible and buy it all now while it is still so cheap. At the highest I paid $45 to fill up my little car...good thing she gets such great gas mileage!

Friday, November 07, 2008

Look What I Won!!

(photo courtesy of Terra Furnishings)
Lookie, lookie!
I got a comment on my last post this morning saying I won this cool wine holder! I entered a contest a few weeks ago (and all that really know me, know that I LOVE entering contests!) over at Terra Furnishings...you had to leave a comment about being eco-friendly.
My comment? Something like this: "I have been listening to my friend share all her (That would be you Marcie) eco-friendly tidbits. And I have started to use re-usable grocery bags".
I decided to get it in oak...now I can't wait till it gets here!
In the words of London Tipton (if you have to ask who that is then don't bother!)..."YEAH ME!"

Thursday, November 06, 2008

$16


Look! Look! Look!

This is my new shelf...and it only cost me $16!

Even Better?

It was custom made for me...the $16 was for the primer and paint. The guys at work made it for me out of extra material...so it isn't the greatest wood (just OSB)...but it is perfect for my scrapbook room. The squares are 14" x 14" so they will fit my 12" scrapbooks!

My fantastic brother-in-law brought it over tonight and lugged it upstairs...and I filled it up right away! Whoo-hoo!!!

Christmas Music

Yes, I confess...

I started listening to Christmas music today! I use pandora.com where you can choose and mix for your favorite station.

I know! I know!

You say it's too early!

But the weather is changing and Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and that definitely means Christmas music!

President-Elect Obama

I know that the recent elections left some of us wondering what happened and thinking how could it happen. A friend of mine shared this letter from Pastor Dutch Sheets and I thought I'd pass it along. For those of you who are not familiar with Dutch, please know that he is a very well respected Christian leader within our nation. I have personally met him and have spent time in his church as well as studying under him in college. I believe that the statements he makes are true and accurate and reflect Christ's view on the whole situation. It definitely made me pause and realize that I probably didn't do my part in praying for my nation, even though I voted for McCain, but on the other hand it gives me an understanding of how to pray for our nation now.

I think this is something that all Christians should read. I know personally of Christians who voted for Mr. Obama simply because of economic issues or because he presents a new face in leadership and gives validity to the African-American society; however, I do believe they were wrong. Yep, bold statement to make, but I believe it is truth!

Please take the time to read through this in its entirety and let it challenge you as it definitely challenged me.

Blessings,
Rachel

PLEASE DO NOT FLAME ME IF YOU DON'T BELIEVE!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
FROM DUTCH SHEETS
November 6, 2008

I feel certain that many in my stream of the Church want a statement from me concerning Tuesday's presidential election. I will be frank in my remarks but I do not, however, intend to vent anger or attack anyone. I have read several statements from friends and colleagues I respect very much.Their thoughts are well stated and, for the most part, insightful. None of them, however, seem to want to say some things that I believe need to be said. I do not claim infallibility or to have the final word, but my convictions run deep and I believe I bear a God-given responsibility to share them.

WAS THIS GOD'S WILL?
Was what happened Tuesday God's will? I am quite confident it was not. America was offered a very clear choice between moving further toward protecting the unborn or further away; between a Supreme Court that would move toward honoring God, life and morality or away from it. The stakes couldn't have been higher nor the cost greater. As a nation we put on blinders concerning Barak Obama's background, associations, beliefs and practices, and set these causes back years, possibly decades. And in doing so we took another step away from God and His plans for America, and another step toward judgment.

JUDGEMENT WILL INCREASE
This is not a fire and brimstone warning from an angry, legalistic preacher. In fact, I feel more sadness and grief than anything else. Perhaps I feel what Jesus felt as He wept for Jerusalem while announcing its judgment. I am not hoping for judgment; I am saying it is inevitable. I don't know where the unbiblical belief comes from that says a nation can live any way it pleases, can reject God and His ways-even mock Him-and not receive His judgments. Nor do I know when the belief came that it is always mean-spirited or judgmental to warn of these things. To the contrary, I believe it is our responsibility.

In warning of judgment, I am not suggesting that God is going to intentially and directly hurt people. Much judgment is simply the absence of God's protection and provision, caused by a rejection of His laws and ways. We have been experiencing some forms of judgment in America for years, but God in His incredible patience and mercy has kept us from the level we've deserved. I believe this will change to a degree and judgment will now increase.

For those in the Church who aligned themselves with pro-abortion forces, I believe judgment will result. For leaders in the Body of Christ who refused to take a stand for fear of losing people, money, and tax-exempt status-I believe there will be a degree of judgment. For those, both within the Church and without, who voted money over morality-a potential raise or better health insurance over the life of a baby-there will be judgment. (The irony is that this decision to base one's vote on the hopes of a better economy won't produce the hoped for result anyway. The scriptures teach that it is righteousness which exalts a nation and that the nation is blessed whose God is the Lord.)

I have heard the argument that God cares as much about social justice issues (such as poverty and racism) as He does abortion, making a vote for Obama OK. I certainly believe God puts a very high priority on caring for the poor and I, too, have wanted to see equality demonstrated through a "minority" president. But to equate having a better income or the desire for a first black president, regardless of his positions on abortion and morality, to the issue of killing 50 million babies is not justice-it is a gross distortion of justice and great deception. I fear that we have been desensitized to this issue of abortion. I believe it kills babies and takes innocent life. I also believe it is blood sacrifice that empowers demons. Let's not forget this in our noble attempts to be kind and conciliatory.

For African Americans I can easily see how it could bring healing to have a first black president, just as it would be for Native Americans to achieve this or for women if a woman were elected president. Again, I have wanted to see justice in this way. I am only saddened that the price for this healing ended up being Barak Obama, a man that will set the cause of life and, most-likely, our God-given destiny as a nation back so drastically. (I also realize there are some who interpret any criticism of Obama as racism. Racism is so NOT what I am about nor what I live, that I will not even dignify any such accusations with a response.)

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT?
What are some of the judgments we can expect on our nation from this election?

-More economic woes
-More violence in an already violent nation
-Disease and death (satan, who is responsible for these things will have greater inroads to our nation.)
-Natural disasters (weather-tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, drought; fires; earthquakes; etc.)
-Terrorism (they will fear us much less now)
-War, perhaps on our own soil
-Judgments relating to the Court. The stacking of the Supreme Court against the sanctity of life and God's influence on America will occur, which will in turn cause the shedding of more innocent blood, more rejection of God's laws and the stealing from us of our godly heritage-all of which will perpetuate a cycle of even more judgment.

HOW DID THIS HAPPEN?
I've been asked if this could have been averted had there been more prayer. I'm not sure. I believe there was a remnant of Christians fervently praying over these elections-I don't think there was anything more they could have done. Others, obviously, should have done more. The complacency and lack of discernment concerning our real condition in America-especially by the Church-is both appalling and horrifying. America is in serious trouble and it seems no one wants to say it. Fewer still are willing to do anything to change it.

Though I understand our reasons, we must be careful in our attempts to placate our feelings and calm our fears through religious phrases like "God is still on the throne" or "God has a plan". He was on His throne 35 years and 50 million babies ago. And He had a plan back then. The problem is, it was us. I understand our reasons for waving high the banner of God's sovereignty at times like these-it gives us hope. I will wave it, as well.But please be careful with this. Too much emphasis on God's sovereignty and we're worthless; too little and we're hopeless. Maybe we should say, "we lost a critical battle but God will give us strategy to win the war." Then find the strategy.

But still yet, since God is usually willing to work through a remnant, I thought we had enough prayer. Obviously, God decided otherwise. There comes a time when He will not forgive or bless the majority based on the prayers or actions of only a few. America rejected God and asked for a king; I believe we now have our Saul (see 1 Samuel 8:5-7)-a man who does not have God's heart for America but his own. Like Israel in scripture, our nation believes it can turn from God and still be blessed. In His mercy and justice He will show us otherwise.

Like many, believing I had many promises and confirmations that God would "grace" us with a pro-life president in this election, I failed to consider strongly enough that all promises-even scripture-are conditional 99.9% of the time. Though I never prophesied or made guarantees that McCain-Palin would win, failing to factor this principle in strongly enough no doubt caused me to share my optimism with others inappropriately. If this caused any harm or confusion, I apologize.

Has the fact that my prayers weren't answered shaken my faith? No. I'm a little confused and discouraged. I'm also somewhat angry at the nation in general and much of the Church. Mostly I'm grieving over the nation and what this will cost us. I am not, however, angry with God and do not question His justice. And it is not true that we wasted our time, energy and money in our efforts anymore than it is a waste when we share the gospel with people who don't get saved. We must keep in the forefront of our thinking the fact that ultimately we are doing this for Him and that He will reward us for our faithfulness. And who knows, perhaps He will store up all those prayers for the next battle (Revelation 5:8, 8:3-5).

A friend and fellow warrior said it well, "We did 'give it our all.' I know the Lord was pleased with that. A coach wants to know one thing at the end of a heartbreaking sports loss: 'Did you leave it all on the field?' (your passion, your commitment, your strength, your courage, etc.) I know that we 'left it all on the field.' We didn't hold anything back until the game ended. Tragically, it ended in defeat. We will rise for another day because Jesus is worthy."

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?
Does this election outcome shake my faith that we can see a great awakening and ultimately reformation in America? Absolutely not (and it strengthens my resolve). We will simply get there through greater pain and loss. Even my passion to see the Supreme Court shift is not from a presupposition that there can be no spiritual awakening without it. It is simply due to my deep conviction that their decisions bring so much death, destruction, curses and judgment to America; and because our full destiny as a nation is unquestionably linked to their decisions. So, yes, we will get an awakening and reformation; but the reality is that this reformation of the nation will reform the Supreme Court (and government, in general), not vice-versa. My faith has never been in people or a political party; my faith is in the God who works through them.

I've been asked if my feelings about Sarah Palin have changed. They have not. I believe she is an Esther, a Deborah, with a huge mantle from God for reformation. God has a great destiny for her related to this nation if she chooses to continue down this path.

So, in conclusion, we must re-group as an apostolic, praying church and advance. We must maintain an immovable faith in God, His plans for America and His mercy. And we must move beyond simply asking God for a spiritual awakening and ask Him for strategy to produce reformation, as well. I, for one, am just getting started!

For God and this great nation,
Dutch Sheets

Tuesday, November 04, 2008

FREE Ice Cream & Coffee

GO OUT AND VOTE!!!

GO NOW!!!

VOTE!!


Did you know that if you go and vote today that you can get a FREE scoop of Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream? And you can get a FREE coffee from Starbucks...all for just going and being a responsible citizen!!!


Sadly, I don't have a B&J...in fact, I don't think I've ever seen one or been to one! And I don't know if I qualify for a FREE coffee since I sent my absentee ballot in last Thursday...but hey, if bribery works to get you out to vote than I'm all for it!


Monday, November 03, 2008

Persistence Pays Off...

Well persistence and stalking Walmart!

I live in a small town (right around 18,000) and we don't have many options for stores, so more often than not it is off to Walmart we go. Not my favorite place to shop...but hey, beggars can't be choosers right?

During the Halloween season I saw this nifty red cape at Walmart for only $15. Not a bad price. However, I really had no need of if it this year...and buying it would be too much on top of all the other Halloween crap I already bought!


Being the thrifty person I am I know that all Halloween stuff goes on clearance the day after! So I rushed down to Wally World and dug through ALL, and I mean ALL there stuff...but NO nifty red cape! I even looked through the carts of crap just sitting there! I was kind of bummed...but hey oh well, life goes on!

Today I thought I'd go look just one more time and perhaps one will have miraculously appeared. Well I'll be a monkey's uncle (ok....why do we say that?!!?) as soon as I walked towards the Halloween stuff and the costumes hanging I immediately spotted my nifty (I love the word nifty) red cape (did I mention this nifty red cape has a hood? and is velvet crush? ). So I nabbed it and only paid $7.50...ohhh, I'm so excited for next year. I'll have to think of a good costume between now and then!

Sorry that the picture isn't that great...I was too lazy to get the real camera out and download said picture, so I just took it with my camera phone!

Please Vote!

In no way do I consider myself political. Half the time I don't understand the issues and don't know what it is going on. I am not completely ignorant, and do do minimal research on issues and candidates; however, a lot of it just goes over my head.



However, what I do know is that I am a RESPONSIBLE citizen and take my freedom to vote very seriously. We live in a country that we are allowed to be a part of the democratic system....please don't tell me our system sucks and that our voice isn't really heard....we still live in a country where the voting system is much more open to citizens than anywhere else.



I find it hard to believe that people don't care about who is going to be elected President tomorrow! Every time we have a presidential election it changes the way we see our nation and the people running it. I'm not here to tell you who to vote for...although I do believe that each candidate has pros and cons that enable them to be President. I personally vote based on issues as well my BIBLICAL beliefs. So for me, the main issue is that Obama believes in partial abortion and McCain does not...so McCain is getting my vote.



Again, I'm not here to tell you who to VOTE for...I'm just here to tell you:


GET OUT AND VOTE TOMORROW!!!

And don't complain about who is president on Wednesday if you didn't vote on Tuesday!



Sunday, November 02, 2008

My Knight in Shining Armor!

I always dreamed that one day my Prince Charming would ride up on a White Steed and rescue my from the daily grind we call life. OK...OK...I watched one too many Disney Princess movies...

Yet, I am still waiting for Prince C!

Till then I have...

I have this cutie patootie Knight in Shining Armor...although I think he is trying to stab me not love me!

You have to love the Dollar Store...because we got this nifty Knight outfit for under $5!

Here he is ready to defend my honor.

Really, he is probably telling me..."Give me candy or I'll chop off your head!"

This whole outfit started with this helmet! I went in the store to grab a few things and told Maddy and Mason they could each have one thing! One thing...no asking me or pleading with me for more...one thing that was it! Yeah Right!



He dithered back and forth between the Halloween aisle of goodies and the regular toy aisle. Finally, he told me we needed to go back for the helmet. I said ok...let's go!



He tried on the helmet and then gave me that puppy dog look...I knew he was in con mod...ready to attack unsuspecting Aunties...good thing I've got his number! He proceeded to tell me that he couldn't get the helmet if he didn't have a sword to fight with...I agreed so he got the sword...hey, what's $2 right? Wrong!



He then continued to spout his sad tale of knight fighting abilities and disabilities....how would he live if he fell on the ground and a rock split his stomach open? Yep, that is what he told me in order to get the breastplate.



Then of course, in order to fend off vicious Princes from other realms fighting for the hand of the fair Maiden Aunt Rachel (ok, ok...I made that part up) he needed a shield!


Yes, I have the perfect little con man for a nephew! He managed to get out of the store with an almost complete Knight's outfit...I drew the line at arm guards.

Another Fun Contest!




This blogger is giving away a copy of the Wicked Soundtrack and an autographed copy of the book. Don't know what Wicked is...get out from underneath that rock! LOL...Wicked is the story of how the Wicked Witch of the West actually became the Wicked Witch...it follows her life and is kind of a prequel to The Wizard of Oz.

LOVE IT!!

Saturday, November 01, 2008

Don't Forget

Tonight is the night that we turn our clocks BACK one hour!!!

Yes, you get an extra hour tonight, although we are losing some daylight!