A Letter of Thanks

To those who clear roads in the winter - the city workers, the highway department workers, the state workers, and even the farmers who take their tractors out (because they're awesome like that!) - thank you! You spend LONG hours in nasty conditions - sometimes going more than 24 hours without sleep. I just want you to know that you are appreciated very much. Stay safe.

Receive This Blessing

An Irish Christmas Blessing

Keith Getty and Kristyn Getty
Copyright © 2004 Thankyou Music/ Adm. by worshiptogether.com songs excl. 

UK & Europe, adm. by Kingsway Music. tym@kingsway.co.uk

Now may the fragrance of His peace
Soar through your heart like the dove released
Hide in His wings oh, weary distant soul
He'll guide your spirit home

And may His love poured from on high
Flow to the depths of your deepest sigh
Oh come and drink from the only living stream
And on His shoulder lean

And may the hope that will not deceive
Through every pain bring eternal ease
There is no night that can steal the promises
His coming brings to us

So may His joy rush over you
Delight in the path He has called you to
May all your steps walk in Heaven's endless light
Beyond this Christmas night

M.I. 75 - Week 1 Review

FAIL!

I am refusing to weigh until after the 1st of the year, but I can tell you my pants are still tight. That could be because I only worked out 2 hours last week and Mrs. Martha at church gave us a plate of cookies for Christmas. Yes, 2 hours is better than not doing it at all, but I am well aware of the fact that 2 hours a week isn't going to help me drop 75 lbs.

Life is crazy this time of year. I'm hoping that after the first of the year it will be easier to build working out into my schedule so that I can be more consistent.

UGH!

M.I. 75

It began today. M.I. 75. Curious? If so, you're way to easy! 

I got up yesterday and stood on the scale for about the 5th time since I finished the round of steroids and tore ligaments in my foot. IT HAS NOT MOVED. Why is this a problem? I gained 7lbs during the round of steroids. 7lbs. in 15 days. How is that even possible? I was hoping it was fluid. Nope. And for those of us who are paying attention - I could NOT afford to gain weight. Period. Yet, here we are!

I'm beyond mad! My body sucks. It doesn't function properly and I HATE it with a passion! So, I've implemented M.I. 75. I need to lose at LEAST 75lbs. and it seems like an impossible feat. I'm starting by putting one foot in front of the other. If I make massive changes I will NOT stick with it. One change at a time. I'm choosing consistency with exercise and change 1.

I have an appointment with an endocrinologist in February. Hopefully she can help give a little insight into what in the world is going on with my body, medically speaking, but I cannot afford to just sit around in the meantime.

Do I think it's fair that I have to workout 10x harder (ok maybe not 10, but for those of you who have ever experienced metabolic issues, you know what I mean) than other people and still not see results? Nope. Am I going to do it anyways. Yep. Because I'm ANGRY! Today I went to the gym before I did anything else. I walked a mile, stretched, did squats (HATE them!), biceps and triceps. Day 1. Success.

I really don't care if anyone reads this...it's mostly for me. If I force myself to update it every week, perhaps that will shame me into going to the gym more consistently.  Having to admit that I either went or was a loser and didn't might just do the trick.

A Letter to the Weather

Dear Weather-

I am sick and tired of not knowing what season the next day is going to be. You have jacked my allergies up!  However, the last 2 days have been delightfully winter like, so I thank you for finally remembering what season it is and getting your act together.Now I would like a little snow please.

With anticipation,
Sheena

Let's Review

Thanksgiving was delightful! Getting to be with our families was THE BEST! We all took pictures of what we were thankful of for.

Ha!

I made a new friend. So adorable (and she LOVES My Little Ponies!)

There was a gender reveal party for Navajo

It's a boy!!!!!

He shall be called Ryan Christopher.

Then we came home and it went downhill.

On Cyber Monday (while Cyber shopping), I rolled my ankle, there was a loud pop, pain and lots of colors. Talented. Yes, I am.

Here's Tuesday:

and Thursday:

Hubby and I both felt puny earlier this week, but we're on the mend. I fed him chicken noodle soup - that's what a good wife is supposed to do, right? It worked. 

Here's to hoping things continue looking up. Happy Friday. Have a great weekend!

Sound Check - Christmas Style

Welcome to Sound Check. This is where I post worship tunes for you to check out. I give you the YouTube video to listen to. If you like the song, click the album cover that follows the video to buy the song on iTunes.

Song: An Irish Christmas Blessing

Album: Joy: An Irish Christmas
by Keith & Kristyn Getty

(NOTE: This video is not the complete song and Keith is singing here. On the album, Kristyn sings this song and it's so lovely. I love this entire album, but this song is my favorite!)

Song: Heaven Everywhere

Album: Francesca Battistelli-Christmas

PartyLite for Sale

I used to sell PartyLite. Here is what I'm currently selling from my collection. Some of these items have only been used for demonstration purposes. Others have been lightly used in my home. The ones with heavier use will be indicated by: **used. All are in their original boxes. If you are interested in purchasing an item, please contact me. Feel free to comment, or send me an email: godzchild4ever@yahoo.com


1 - Frosted Votive Sampler Pair (P9336) - $6 

1 - Versatility Votive Pair (P8488) - $8

1 - Thai Inspiration Pillar Holders (P9167) - $8

1 - Infinite Reflections AromaMelts Warmer (P9226) - $10





2 - Blue Waves Candle Holder (P9916) - $15 each



1 - Nordic Ice Votive Holder (P8638) - $4

1 - Birds and Blooms Votive Holder (P9915) - $3

1 - Autumn Fire Candle Lamp (P8661) - $15 

1 - Autumn Fire Votive Holder (P8665) - $5

2 - Mini Barrel Jar Shade - frosted (P9836) - $3

1 - Dotty Votive Holder (P8877) - $3

1 - Garden Whimsy Tealight Trio (P9337) - $10

2 - Exotic Brown Accents (DR002) - $5 each



1 - Ocean Blue Candle Lamp **box is torn on the inside (B8946) - $12

3 - Ocean Blue Votive Holders (P9409) - $5 each

1 - Express It! Votive Luminary (P9450) - $15

1 - Gaia Pillar Tray (P9602) - $20

1 - Iced Crystal Trio (P9248) - $15

1 - Thai Inspiration Medium Pillar Sleeve (P9333) - $10

1 - Pumpkin Witch House (P8607) - $20 

1 - Moroccan Spice Lantern (P9316) - $20

1 - Solitare Tealight Holder (P9686) - $8

MS Annoyances - Keeping You Informed

So, one of the most frustrating things about MS is not knowing if things you are experiencing are related to the MS or not. This disease affects so many things (and probably has for years - I just didn't know it was the MS). Hubby thinks the frequency of my trips to the bathroom are directly related to the amount of liquid I consume. The truth is, he's probably correct.  However, the sudden urgency that is experienced right before one of those trips becomes necessary is on the level of an 80 year old with bladder control problems. That is the MS.

The most recent battle/annoyance? Headaches. Like, let me stay in bed, turn off all the lights and take so much ibuprofen and naprosyn that my liver screams at me for the damage it is suffering in the process. After about a month and realizing that is how the last episode began, I decided to call my neurologist. Apparently, the weather not being able to pick a season has been causing annoyances for lots of MS patients. (Sometimes it's just nice to know you aren't a lone crazy person in the boat.)

I am now taking an oral steroid taper (which is more pleasant than the IV steroids - which make me behave as though I'm bi-polar AND on crack). It is helping with the headaches - I'm actually getting out of bed and turning on lights. It makes me anxious, hot, and not be able to get a full night's sleep. (I'll take little sleep over migraine, though.) However, I wouldn't complain about a full night's sleep (or a massage, for that matter).

Thoughts on Leading Worship

As I was thinking ahead to Sunday morning and asking God (out of my frustration, mind you) what was really going to make a difference (and I was specifically referring to the music portion of our worship service) - what would draw people closer to His heart, to a deeper point in their relationship with Him - a few things came to me.

As a worship leader (and regardless of whether you are THE LEADER, the drummer, etc., you are leading worship), it is our job (collectively) to usher in the presence of the Holy Spirit so that God can do His work among His people. Worship isn't really for US...it's for Him. I mean, technically, we could sing anything in worship of Him, but is that all He desires? I don't think so. He desires our hearts - US. I think God's expects that worship will draw us closer to Him and....wait for it....CHANGE us.

I am really sick of superficial worship...like, fed up, makes me nauseous and want to vomit sort of sick. Anyone feel me? You can sing great songs and not a single person be moved - physically or spiritually. This makes me weep! I need depth, people! DEPTH! There are days when I need comforting and it comes from those depths with God, but most of the time depth does not equal comfort for me. Depth in worship means that I am coming into the presence of Almighty God. Burning bush, anyone? NOT. COMFORTABLE. However, you can't leave the presence of God and not be changed. Isn't that what we should be striving for? Change. Being molded into the image of our Lord, bit by bit (and comfort can be found in that).

Worship leaders - strive for depth tomorrow. Be well-rehearsed so that you don't have to think about the music and YOU can simply worship God for who He is. Wherever you lead, your congregation will follow.

Happy Monday

I saw this video on Today with Kathie Lee and Hoda. I had to share. Happy Monday.

Confessions

Let's begin with:
I haven't been to the gym this week.

And let's follow that with:
I haven't started on my Bible study for Wednesday.

What have I done? 

spent time with a girl I'm currently mentoring

taught voice lessons

went to see what was wrong with Ronnie's car (the front suspension is currently being held together by  God - I was under there and I can verify that God's hand is holding it together - and stop freaking out...it's getting fixed on Tuesday)

helped a college student from our church with Math

went to Bible study

met a friend for coffee (she's been gone for a while - I'm super glad she's back!)

grocery shopped

laundry

dishes

dinner, dinner, dinner - we have to eat

found 2 pairs of jeans (paid $22 total - that was work!)

taught another voice lesson that required ME to practice - stupid arias!

rehearsed music for church

Worship team rehearsal

talked to my mom and brother on the phone

talked to several friends via text

spent time with the hubby - we have fun together and laugh a lot!

I may have failed at the gym endeavors this week, but I've done several things worthwhile this week.

Other confessions:

I missed not having Tuesday night community this week.

I'm looking forward to going to the gym this coming week.

Hey, maybe I AM turning over a new leaf.

Sound Check - October 28, 2012

Welcome to Sound Check. This is where I post worship tunes for you to check out. I give you the YouTube video to listen to. If you like the song, click the album cover that follows the video to buy the song on iTunes.

I'm going to have to make a list of songs I want to introduce you to - there is a ton of new stuff that I'm really liking...Bebo Norman, Brandon Heath, Gateway Worship, Gabriel Wilson, Veggie Tales (no I'm not kidding - I LOVE me some Veggie Tales - DON'T JUDGE!) AND Third Day's new album is scheduled for a Nov. 6 release.

However, since I mentioned FFH last week, I'll begin there. I love this entire album. I developed a deep love for FFH in college. The simplicity and clarity in their vocals makes the lyrics a central focal point and they have such beautiful harmony. The link I'm posting at the end is for the entire album. I can't pick just one song to recommend. Most of the songs are songs you already know from church, but FFH style.

Song: First Love

Album: The Way We Worship

by FFH
NOTE: This video is the only one I could find.

My, How Things Have Changed

Last night at worship team rehearsal, I found a piano version of our hymnal and began looking through it. I ran across this:

This lovely document provided us plenty of entertainment for the majority of rehearsal.

I am assuming Sacred Melody was a collection of songs - written by the Wesley brothers, of course. I find it amusing that those songs - THEIR SONGS - should be learned before any others and that they should be sung exactly as they are printed. If you've learned them differently, for heaven's sake, UNLEARN them! 

WHAT?

For those of you who don't like the sing (Guy Rowland), check out #3. Mr. Wesley says that should sing even if it's a cross to you. Bahahahaha!

I think #4 is hilarious. Hubby thinks #4 and #5 sort of contradict each other. I think #5 just says don't be a diva or a fool while you're singing our songs! 

I'm pretty sure #6 is why good drummers are a necessity today. If John Wesley would have had a good drummer, he wouldn't have had to worry about people maintaining a steady tempo, right?

#7 - Oh my! I don't even know what to say to that.

I'm so glad I have never had to worship according to these directions. Change is good, people. Change is good.

How Is That Even Possible?

Random Things I Am Thinking Right Now:

Why is this download taking so long?

Why is this election not over? Any why is Colin Powell not running for President. I would gladly vote for him!

I am seriously one blessed woman - my husband not only had dinner made when I got home from teaching, he was working on laundry (which I was planning to do tomorrow)!

FFH has a new album?!?!?! WHAT? I LOVE FFH! Watch for some music on an upcoming Sound Check.

Oops! I forgot to do Sound Check this week.

I have to stop watching Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives before bed. I'm starving!

How is it even possible that all of these things went through my mind in such a short span of time? It's like ADD central in my head.

Dear Parents

Dear Parents of talented and not-so-talented kids:

So, you think your kid could be a star? Maybe. There are a few things you should consider:

Your child is NOT the greatest.

Everything your child does is NOT fantastic.

There will ALWAYS be someone better...a better singer, a better actor, a better dancer.

Please encourage your kids to do their best, but stop encouraging them to be snots. What's that? You're not encouraging them to be snots? Umm...yes. Yes, you are. Every single time you voice your over-rated opinion about how terrible someone else is and how great they are and how they weren't given a fair shake, you're encouraging them to be snots. Stop it. Just stop it!

Here's a little secret about conducting auditions: IT SUCKS! After years of conducting auditions for community theater, I've learned that you rarely make anyone happy. My job in that instance is not to make you happy. My job is to cast a show for the script and score that has been given to me. There are always people who aren't happy with the outcome - not because they were involved in the process, not because they've spoken with someone who could tell them WHY certain decisions were made, but because they didn't get their way. I'm looking for talented kids, who are easy going and are willing to make the most of whatever is thrown at them...kids that really just want to have fun and hopefully learn something in the process. Some kids are SUPER talented, but have arrogance issues. Some are semi-talented, but are good kids (I will take these kids any day of the week!). Some aren't very talented, but they have parents who have told them that they are, so they're super heart-broken (and snotty) when they don't get a lead...and while we're on the subject:

EVERYONE CAN'T PORTRAY THE PRINCIPAL CHARACTER! Duh! Every story is full of characters. Principal characters, Secondary characters, bit parts. Sometimes there are people in a play or musical who never say a word! WHAT? Doesn't that mean they shouldn't be there? No. What kind of story would there be if it was only a story about the principal characters? For those of you who encourage your kids to quit because they didn't get the 'part they wanted' - SHAME ON YOU! Teach them to make the most of every situation (and role!).

When getting a role makes a difference in whether or not the rent gets paid or if someone lives or dies, then you can get upset. Until then - CALM DOWN! People are starting to think you're a little crazy!

1 Year and Counting

Today is our anniversary. We have officially survived one year of marriage. It hasn't really felt like survival, though. I've heard a lot of people talk about how difficult the first year of marriage is. Ours was not and I'm grateful. There are several things that probably contributed to this. We dated for a very long time (over 8 years) which means we both knew what we were getting ourselves into - there were no delusions. We already knew what drove us crazy about the other one and decided we could cope (you're delusional if you think you're going to change that stuff!). We learned during our dating life that we had to communicate with each other (and use a GPS - another story for another day). People communicate in different ways - which can often be attributed to how they grew up, but we figured it out BEFORE we got married. It also helps if you really like the person - you'll spend a lot of time together. The most important element, though...God. He has to be front and center. Period.

Ronnie, you are my best friend and a wonderful husband. You love me with a depth that could only come from your love for God and your desire to serve Him even through our marriage. You cherish me. You lead with integrity and you provide with love. I am seriously blessed to call you my husband. Happy Anniversary - I love you!

Classic Italian Turkey Meatballs

I couldn't figure out a good way to pin this from the Today Show site. I'm posting the recipe here so that I can find it.



Classic Italian Turkey Meatballs

Giada De Laurentiis

Ingredients:

For meatballs

• 1 cup plain bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup whole milk, at room temperature
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 small onion, finely chopped*
• 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pound ground dark turkey meat
• 1 pound spicy Italian turkey sausage links, casings removed
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

For sauce

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 large garlic cloves, smashed and peeled
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons finely ground fennel seeds
• 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
• 3/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 low-sodium chicken broth

For serving

• Grated parmesan cheese

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

For the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the bread crumbs, milk, eggs, onion, Parmesan cheese, ketchup, basil, parsley, tomato paste, garlic, salt, and pepper. Using a wooden spoon, stir to blend. Add the ground turkey and sausage meat. Using fingers gently mix all the ingredients until thoroughly combined.

Using a 1-ounce cookie scoop or a small ice cream scoop, form the meat mixture into 11/2-inch balls (about 22 to 24 meatballs). Place the meatballs on a heavy non-stick baking sheet, spacing apart. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15 minutes until cooked through.

For the tomato sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet with 2-inch-high sides over medium-high heat. Add the onions, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, fennel, and 1/2 cup basil. Bring to simmer. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, stirring occasionally, about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir in the remaining 1/4 cup basil. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if desired.

Add the meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer until the meatballs are heated through, about 10 minutes. Thin the sauce with chicken stock, 1/4 cup at a time, if needed.

Serve with grated Parmesan cheese alongside.

Tips:
*Cook's note: You can either finely chop the onion by hand or in a food processor. Coarsely chop the onion and add them to the processor bowl. Pulse until finely chopped.
Serving Size

Makes 4 to 6 servings

A New Normal

Yesterday marked one year from the date that we moved everything into our apartment in Ohio. During the past year a lot has happened. I feel very blessed, but I've spent much of this year very frustrated, confused, and at times angry. Marriage is GREAT, but I have not worked full-time since June of 2011 and I H.A.T.E. it! (side note: for the stupid politicians out there who don't get it, let me give a real life example of why the government you've helped to create SUCKS! I have student loan debt because a degree supposedly = a job. SMH! So, now I have no job and a student loan because school costs too flippin' much to pay for out of pocket. I worked in a low-income school district for 6 years and you, Mr. Politician, work for a government that refused to forgive even a portion of my loans! You suck! Rant not over, but I'll save the rest for another day!)

This new chapter of our lives has been very good for Ronnie's career. He LOVES his job and God is providing, but I can't help but feel as though I should be doing more. I desire to do more with my life. I feel like I was made for more than just sitting at home. When we first moved, I felt a little jipped. I mean, I had established myself in Southern Illinois as a vocal instructor and coach. I had my own studio and students that I absolutely loved working with. (High School and College - those are the students I really like to work with!)

Here in Ohio, I still teach, but it's mostly kids - a lot of beginners. It is not my favorite time of the week and I really don't enjoy it like I used to. Right now, I'm just doing it for the money - and that stinks! I find plenty to keep me busy, but it just isn't the same as having a job AND finding plenty to do doesn't pay my student loans off or make a car payment.

I'm not certain if it is like this in other countries, but our identity in this country is wrapped up in what we do - not who we are. "Hi, I'm Sheena and I'm a _________. What do you do?" Even a year in, I still can't seem to identify myself beyond the things I 'do' and it's frustrating! I'm currently trying to accept this as my new normal and find what God has for me in all of this. I'm trying to seek His face and His will for me and I am praying for the courage and grace to accept whatever that is. I want to be able to walk through this next year content in knowing God has not forgotten me and that He has a plan for my life.

Christmas Ideas

Here are a few of the items I'm selling right now.
(The prices listed do NOT include shipping.)

If you're interested, shoot me an email at godzchild4ever@yahoo.com.

'Our Stache' Jar
$7

(I can also make them to say 'My Stache', if you prefer.)

Be sure to indicate mustache 1 or 2, as well.

Wristlet Keyfob

$4

(Please indicate Set # and Keyfob # in that set.)

Set 1

Set 2

Set 3

Set 4

Set 5

Set 6

Set 7

Checkbook Cover

$8

(please indicate #)

Make-up Brush Roll-up Bag
$10

Peacock Necklace

$20

 Wall Hanging

$8

 

Wine Bottle Torch w/ Copper Cap

$12