Fun kids Activity

I am sure that the rest of you out there in Pinterest land may have seen this project. 

 Beautiful Colored Doodle Paint. 

The total instructions and great free labels are from the fun blog by Delware County Moms Doodle Paint !

Im sure the kids are all enjoying their summer vacation, but if they are like mine the boredom starts settling in quick!!! So because I have a love for anything colorful and fun this went to the top of my "To Make" list for the kiddos. . Let me be the first to tell you it turned out awesome, and my kids loved it!!

We used tons of colors ranging from food coloring , Micas to acrylic paint ( just a small amount goes a long way ).  It's thick and needed some kind of surface able to hold the artists masterpeices, and I wanted a reusable surface. I had some poly plastic binders , the real flimsy ones. We easily pulled off the metal strip in the middle and laid it flat. Whalah!!! We had a washable and reusable paint board!! This has given my kids hours of fun, and it washes right off so go ahead and give it a try !! You may score yourself a little peace and quiet this summer! Enjoy!!

 

Ummm Yeah.. Thats mine.. I may have made the Doodle Paint for myself, shhh dont tell anyone.

So schools out and the children are free from their daily studies, and I must find things to occupy thier busy little minds:) It seems this new season comes with bounds of energy from the glorious sunshine and lots of  fresh Fruits, ice cream trucks and water slides!! WHOO HOO

We've already canned several cases of jams and jellies from this years picks of Strawberries and Mangos, and Orange marmalade so we are loving life. Garrison insists he wants to be a farmer so Im excited about some fresh produce in the near future. Here's to a Beautiful Day!
Go out and get in the sunshine, that Vitmain D will do you some good!
                                                             

Celebrations

I have been crazy the past few weeks, but have promised myself this will slow done ASAP. I'm a complete Holiday Nut, nothing like it! Amongst my retail Job, Make Scents Company, sewing for friends, the kids, Being a wife , saying nothing of being a Pastors wife and those roles sometimes  the "plate" gets a little heavy :) I'm hoping to get my home  in order and slow done and really enjoy the Holidays this year.  What will I remember in years to come? That's the stuff I want to focus on.

 If you know me you know I love my Christmas village collection. Last year I didn't really put it all up and my kids have begged me to do it this year. So no more Grinch for me..Set up my village , and ready to Enjoy Thanksgiving all the way thru !! Let the fun begin!!

Bakerella

First off if you are like me and you stop by starbucks for a cup of caffiene you cant help put drool over those adorable new cake pops they have. I hate the fact that my disciple just caves at the sight of those cake and white chocolate masterpieces. So you know me I always think I can make something I see. Garrison and I get the cake supplies and he does a beautiful job on the cake mixed in our frosting and dip our pops ..FAIL ..Okay so not really a total fail but they came out more as truffles then adorable pops. Still tho the tasted heavenly!! I wanted to share with you a totally cool site I found while googling recipes .BAKERELLA , isnt that a cool name? Check out the mad baking skills this lady has!! Oh how I envy (ssh dont tell anyone I said that word) her skill in the kitchen, Hope you all enjoy!!
I seen her Cake Pops book at Barnes and Noble and could stare for days at It (I respond to brightly colored fun looking objects,HA)
So if you try them and they work for you..Go ahead and send em to me Ill taste test them for ya!:)


Bakerella

My Gratitude Adjustment

 
 Ever hear your parents say " You need an attitude adjustment"? I know as a parent Ive had to say it a few times and that usually means "business" for the recipient :) Well my heavenly Father I figure recently figured the same thing as he sent me an "Gratitude Adjustment"!

A really unique and wonderful situation happened to me last Wednesday while having a home school morning at Barnes and Noble. To Make a long story short, God sent a wonderful right now word from a sweet looking older gentleman named Fernando as I was walking by his study area there.  At the end of our conversation ( more like him sharing a word from heaven to me, without knowing anything about me at all) he said he wanted me to read a book and he'd be back. He purchased and had gift wrapped for me a book by Debbie Macomber  called "One Simple  Act" Discovering the power of generosity.

 When I opened it in the car I was taken a back, as it really didn't seem to fit what we were talking about from the title. As I read it boy did I discover a whole new level of thinking. The gift wrapping was careful tucked in between two pages of pg. 168 +169. Two pages of scriptures like "Cast ALL your cares upon the Lord  " They that wait upon the Lord  Shall renew their strength" Lifting scriptures that brought peace and joy to my heart.  I began reading  and was really enlightened about all it talked about. How miracles start to happen when we start giving back and helping others even tho we are faced with needing help our selves. This act releases miracles in our life, How you say? GRATITUDE.

I sat and thought about that word for a long time. Am I truly thankful for every trial? Can I give of my time when My schedule seems jammed packed?  Say an uplifting word, when Ive had  terrible crushing ones from those I love said to me? Can I buy a lunch for a homeless man  when I have no $$ Myself? Theres POWER in giving, even sometimes giving.....Forgiveness. I know that was a hard word to hear huh ? It is for us all.

We have become a thankless generation of all that we've been given, spoiled brats of sorts (not any of you reading this of course) We think God and man Owes us something. We've often been giving things and luxuries, some we have not paid the price for so we have no gratitude or respect for.. I.E. Churches, Money, Positions, gadgets,cars, jobs, etc, etc.. If we are not careful we can be Heartless Harvesters of blessings that we didn't sow, but that's another thought for another time.

 The Author suggested writing in a daily journal 5 things everyday that you were thankful for and that it would turn your thinking around. It really opens your eyes for what we do have. I've often heard my husband quote " A Thankful Person is a Thinkful person"..If we really only realized all we have and how our "trials" have really been for our God, we would see how much he's done for us.

 Benefits of Gratitude

Not only Spiritually , but listen to what researchers found (taken from the book, oops SPOILER ahead)
 3 of my favorites...

*Gratitude Defends. Just Fifteen minutes a day focusing on things your grateful for will significantly increase your body's natural antibodies..WOW!!! Sick Much?

*Gratitude Sharpens . Naturally grateful people are more focused and measurable less vulnerable to clinical depression

*Gratitude Calms. A grateful state of mind induces a psychological state called resonance that's associated with lower blood pressure and heart rate.

 These are just three, to many to type.

 I was brought to my knees with thankfulness for all he's done for me. As I look over every  seeming Crisis and Trial is has ALL worked out for my God. One of my favorite quotes of the book " The Act of Gratitude  reminds us that God is worthy of our trust"..

Here's My question for you and one I've asked myself many times... Do you trust God?  Really Trust Him,, I mean with EVERYTHING?  When You give everything to him and trust him over your life  Oh the peace it brings.   Start looking at others around your work, community, home, etc for people to give the Love of God to and you'll be surprised at how it puts everything in your life in perspective.. My goal.. An Gratitude filled Attitude, I pray the same for you, and watch what God will do!!



BTW: Maybe a token from God, but since Ive started this new thought process (One I should have got a long time ago, but hey I'm slow... Ive had 4 wonderful miracles in my life this week that only he could have done! Grateful!

Creative Inspiration

   If your reading this blog you most likely know a few things about me. One being I LOVE anything that is creative or hands on crafty. Many people make the comments, " I could never do that", " Im just not creative".... Not so.  Im leaning toward believing that everyone has a little creativity flow that they just havent tapped into yet.

 One thing I love about modern technology is the tutorial and youtube" how to" videos. Im definatly one of those people who learn visually so  watching someone  sewing a placemat online would be much easier than reading a pattern.

How do I know what to search for ?

When you are searching out something (how to sew a button or how to make your own laundry soap) put in youtube or google  " How to sew a button tutorial.. Wording is everything! I have several sites I really gain alot of inspiration from. Below Im sharing one of my favorites that a friend of my turned me onto a while back. She has TONS of tutorials on there for free!!  Youll think me later,its a wealth of info. Hope you enjoy!! Happy Creativity!!

Tea Rose Home

My Fall addiction recipe...

          For those that know me , know I have a weakness for pumpkin flavored bake goods, scents etc.  No kidding  its a bit of a problem:0
This  is my annual fall favorite. Ive reworked it and im telling you its delicious!! When you think fudge you think chocolate.. Not so with this..Smooth white Chocolate chips make this taste like a smooth pumpkin pie fudge..Hope you enjoy !! Pardon me I think my kitchen is calling me to whip this up!


Spiced Pumpkin Fudge
3/4  Cup Butter
3 cups Sugar
2/3 Cup carnations evaporated milk
3/4 cup libbys pumpkin
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 1/2 cup nestle white chocolate chips
7oz jar marshmellow creame
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup chopped nuts 
__________________________
In heavy saucepan heat first 5 ingrediants to a boil over medium heat stirring constantly .Continue to boil until mixture reaches 234 degrees on candy thermometor remove from heat stir in chips & marshmellow cream until smooth. Stir in vanilla and nuts .pour into buttered 9x13 pan. makes about 3lbs.
Hope enjoy my personal take on my fall addiction recipe.

We will never forget!

Today the sun is shining much like it did that fateful morning . I'll never forget the erie feeling when my mom walked in the room I was staying  in while we visited, shook my foot and said "get up somethings happening". From the way she said it I knew it was not good. It seemed as it all began unfolding something had forever changed, like the beginning of the end. I've often heard  people say the will never forget what they were doing when JFK was shot, I now most certainly know how they feel. So thankful that we have men and women willing to risk their lives to help  keep our freedoms and safety. Also for our God who oversees it all!

Starr Heritage Academy

You do what?

Yup you guessed it! In case you didn't know we are one of "those" homeschooling families!  This marks the beginning of our second year homeschooling our oldest and we LOVE it!! Yes , I did say we LOVED it :) Our 2 youngest are still in Public Elementary and totally enjoying it at this point so we are doing what best fits the needs of each of our children. I guess you could say I see both sides of the fence on this. 

This morning on the home school side Garrison and I are enjoying doing our school work at Barnes & Noble! Seriously How cool of a classroom setting is that. I can truly say I too am learning so much and its really awesome to see what the difference our family decision (directed with prayer) has made on Garrison's life. 

I'm still new to this and do not have all the ropes down pat just as yet, but am working on it. My wonderful SIL Christy has totally been an inspiration to me and helped me with all my goofy questions and concerns.

So what do home school families do? Are they related to the Duggarts?

First question: We attend a coop once a week with some wonderful people and lots of friends for him to play with, Violin lessons, outings,field trips bible quizzing etc,etc. The whole world is a classroom it seems.Unlike what most people thing its totally hands on and even more busy than public school!

Second: No we are not related , I could only talk my husband into 3 children.

Whats a typical day like?

We sleep till 2pm, eat... NAH no so, lol

I drop my two youngest kiddos off and Garrison starts school fully dressed promptly at 9am

Devotion

Then he usually starts off with teaching textbooks Math

Writing work

We do a Easy Grammar /Daily grams lesson

10 min Break

History

Violin Practice

Lunch

45 bible quizzing

Reading

Everyday is a different elective Course

Chemistry (3 days a week experiments on Thursdays)

And we need to know this why?

 So here's why I'm even writing this today. So whether you have children in Public school or now have jumped the line with the rest of the crazies to homeschooling, you have made a decision Please rest assured that MANY people will oppose either side of your choice.  My personal thought on this is If you have truly and totally thought out your public or non public  choice, prayed and made up your mind go for it! Everyone thought the wright brothers where crazy, but you can thank them now when you get on a airplane to take a 3 hr plane ride to a place that before would take you 3 days.

We were one of those families who were like "No way Could we ever do THAT".. But about a year before starting God starting changing our thinking. How do I know it was God, because me husband agreed to :) So we waited till 5th grade ended and middle school was going to begin. 

Here's some questions we asked ourselves.

• Why are we wanting to do this?
• How are we going to do this?
• What is our plan in accomplishing our goal?
• What do we expect our outcome to be?
• Can we do this.. (jury maybe still out some days:)

If you are just starting out believe me you'll have opposition and bad days, but its totally awesome anyway. Those that want to nay say your decision are not in your shoes (unless it is a spouse and then you may want to listen up). Your Children are yours and if it something you've decided to do , then no worries  9 times out of 10 its people that don't really understand what it is, and most likely need to tend to their own family situations anyway:)  So here's to education and helping your children reach everything possible for them to attain.. Cheerio !! Thanks for stopping by..Love y'all!!

Falling in Love...

Here we are .. Summer is coming to a close and routines are starting up again.! Seriously I'm actually excited about it! I typically adore each season as it comes, but there is something about fall and the change of things that intrigues me. I mean who doesn't love tall boots, colorful trees, caramel apples and pumpkin spice lattes!!

 We had such a great summer going to Grandmas cabin in Michigan, Church camps, boat outings,old fashioned snow cones, cook outs and picnics so much fun for sure. All grand but as I feel the change of seasons it brings a smile to my face.

 So here's  the Changes our lives brought this season in case you desperately were wondering...
 This year Ainsley enters Kindergarten and somehow is switching from baby girl to spunky little girl. She adores her teacher and classmates already.She is so much fun and a loving little thing and did I mention a darling fashionista!!
 Mr.Cade moved on to 2nd grade and is using his energy to make all his new buddies laugh:) Seriously the kid would break a body part to get a chuckle, but yet his is extremely private about a lot of things. Very sensitive about whats right and wrong and things that have to do the God (Thank you Jesus!!)

 Garrison is now in 7th grade, yup you heard right 7th grade!!!!Hes so funny and doesn't even mean to be, reminds me so much of his Daddy and Uncle Anthony. He has now taken up violin, which he is totally loving , and here's to hoping our bluegrass gospel band is being birthed!!LOL

In addition to this my sweetie has gone back to college full time, plus working and pastoring..I get tired just thinking about it!! WHEW Hes also hit 56lbs of weight loss and looking F..I..N...E.. okay enough about that before I have to rate this paragraph.

Me? Thanks for asking just sewing along,  living life to the best of my ability.. ready for chilly afternoons so I can enjoy some candles and hot tea.

There really are some many wonderful things in life if you would just look around.. I'm gonna start "Falling" In Love! Happy Fall Ya'll!!!

SEW very inspired!

  I grew up watching my momma sew and create all types of crafts and such. Both sides of my family tree are gifted with some kinda artistic minded talent , so I have a natural love of these types of things. I have been a Chandler (better known as candle maker:)  and soap maker for years and even started a business over 9 yrs ago with it. There has been scrapbooking, knitting, crocheting, quilt making etc. I love all things "artsy"to be honest. I have had a sewing machine for years and could do the basic stuff, but that was about it.
 A few months back the Wilbanks Singers came and parked on our lot for  a few weeks and I got to see them "create":) If you know them at all you know that not only are the fantastic Musically, but they are very talented Crafters (and thats for lack of a better word). I was so inspired by their creations ,and sewing that it started the fire under my feet to pick it back myself.We had a blast to say the least.

I learned so much from our time together here, I owe them a gratitude of thanks. I have been in love with sewing again  ever since and have really enjoyed using the tips I learned to sew for my little girl. Anyway, thought I would share why I havent been blogging for a while :) LOL

Get organized!

This site is awesome, It will change your " home" life persay , if you'll let it:) Hope you enjoy it as much as I do..

http://www.flylady.net/pages/sneak_peek.asp

Beautiful Workspace

My creative space, originally uploaded by *jenny b allsorts.

Oh How I love this craft room set up! This workspace really begs me just to rush in a create something!! I love the beautiful colors and organization!! The Fabric Buffet is Lovely too..Hmmmm now I want to create my own " Sewing space" ! This could be dangerous!!

Daddy, I Love when you visit!

   Papa recently came for a visit to our house. When Papa comes there is much excitement awaiting his arrival, and we are thrilled when we finally hear those tires bringing the awaited arrival in.  We all got our hugs and smooches in, especially Little Ainsley as she adores her Papa with great affection:)   

    My father spent a few days here and we enjoyed his company so much. It was my birthday weekend and he drove several hours just to be with us. If you know my father Rev. Martyn Ballestero at all , you know that he has got to be one of the most giving people that ever walked the earth. Growing up I can only remember asking him for money one time as I was afraid he would give me everything he had and leave himself with nothing!!lol He did just that he opened his wallet and gave me what he had. You never mention you like something he has, or many times he just takes it gives it to you whether he still needs it or not:)

  As the years have progressed and I have my own family , my father will come by when he can. I know what will happened every time . ...The toolbox will come out and bikes, chairs, pictures, doors, and furniture that have been awaiting repair will suddenly get done. You need a cord for a computer ? Charger for your phone? A set of Molds to make soapmaking easier? A makeshift wick setter:)? This , that or the other? You name it if it needs done or theres  a way to make like easier for us he will do it, make it or get it. I feel amazingly humbled and sheepish at the amount of time and work he does when he comes to instantly make life a little better for us. It dosent have to be fixing in the natural either sometimes I need to discuss my feeling , thoughts and hurts and he has a beautiful way of listening and knowing whats right!! I know when Daddy Comes everything is gonna be alright!! What a trait:!!)

     So the following Monday  after my Dad had long gone I had a need in my life. I needed something fixed that I could not do myself. It's One of those things were you wonder , "Umm theres no way I can do this, What am I gonna do?" As I was praying that morning The Lord brought something to my attention. My mind thought of how every time my natural father came I felt peaceful, protected, and provided for.  I felt impressed that God wanted me to know How much more even than the natural father that he loves me. How Many times before had he just stepped in with the "little" things to make something easier for me? Provided for me when there seemed no way to make it? Brought peace in troublesome situations? All the little "Fix its" along the way he had done for me so many times before? 

  Why do we fear when we go through hard times and Struggles? Is it because our "Daddy" (Heavenly Father) isnt near to us as he should be, as we have stepped away from him? Do we not remember all the times before that he has came and instantly made our lives better? Do we not believe that he loves us so much more than a natural father, and assuredly has our best in mind? Even if the situations seems hopeless to my eye I believe that God always knows what I need. MY own natural father would protect and Love me with his life, just as God has done for me.

    

    What a blessing to have Such a wonderful earthly father, and an amazing heavenly father! Daddy I love when you visit!

Spring Forward

I Love Spring! Whats not to love with all the beautiful Green and array of rainbow colors blooming all around? Don't get me wrong I am all for winter too, but only so many days of dark and cold and the energy seems to be snapped out of me! Yikes No Energy For a Pastors Wife, Mommy of three, and small Business owner is just no good!

The Kids are doing well and anxiously awaiting the arrival of Spring Break Next Week! Not sure what we are gonna do to celebrate , but I assure you Pelicans Snow Cone Stand is reopening for the spring and the Hartzell brood will be there to celebrate

Garrison received another bible quizzing  award ..this time trophy this past weekend!! WE are so proud of Him! Not only is he smart and Good looking but he Loves God and Learning the Word.It is very hard work but he Is doing awesom.He has Lots of questions about God and the Hows and the whys of the world and creation and heaven..We Welcome those, so glad he is interested in Godly things

Cade, Well if you know our family at all ..Yes we all have personality but my sweet Cade got a extra dose of it!! He Is a Momma Lover and that makes me Happy!LOL He Just got all 3's (like A's for a Kindergardener) on his report Card.. It said "Cade, Works well with others, and is well behaved and shows Leadership  among his class ... YEAH Cade Proud of ya little Man!

Princess Ainsley has a slight addiction to Care Bears!! LOL She Has about everyone that they came out with, I have to admit I love them too!!  She is such a little Princess , but is not afraid to Climb trees  and pick  play in the mud! I love them Mix that she is. She also ADORES, yes ADORES her Papa Ballestero..Carries Pictures around of him, Takes the little elephant (which she also collects) he bought her around and even sings songs about him!!LoL  Being the only girl myself, its like watching me grow up!

Well its time for me to spring forward and get some work Done!! TO Nice to be inside:)

Faithful Love/ Valentines Day

Tomorrow is Valentines Day and I Love it!! My Momma has been here for about 2 Weeks Monday and I Have enjoyed every minute of it. Got Beautiful Flowers and Special treatment from My Wonderful Husband too, and the kids have had fun making out Cards and Candy for friends. Im a Lover at heart so a day full of expression to those you Love is a welcome treat!  I read once that " Love is a Choice".. What does that mean ? It means there will be days that no butterflies in the stomach feeling, Bills will come, Hurts will happen..But among all that you Choose to Love even will the feeling is not there..You Stay and remain faithful to your commitment..Believe me the feelings WILL return , but this time stronger than before. If My Children do wrong, may they know I may not like what they did, but I still love THEM, I pray My husband never has to wonderf how I feel about him and If I love him ,and My Family knows nothing can come between us. Love is not an emotion, but a lifestlye.. To all those I Love , I choose it to be  a forever love.  A Faithful Love

Let it Snow!!!

Finally it has happened!! The long awaited white snowflakes from heaven are finally here!! Last night about 7 :20 it started coming down like crazy as I awaited a lady I took to get medication at the target parking lot! It was so beautiful and thick  almost felt like Christmas :) Garrison had stayed home from School as he had caught some sort of stomach virus , but has quickly recovered.  We at breakfast , my favorite childhood winter breakfast, Hot Chocolate w/whip with Toast to dip.YUMMY! After much anxiousness the kids and I finally made it outside to sled with our make shift Sleds (tote lids and hampers). I guess the Snow has mixed to well with the sleet cause we just sank right down and after about 10 mins of Crying about cold hands and snowballs to the fast we piled back inside to the warmth. We have had a lovely day just being together and relaxing... Alas Ainsley is now not feeling well so I pray that this only lasts a short time like Garrisons Did... So heres to the Snow it was fun while it lasted!!!

Our Days

After I found my hidden energy with a about 2000mg of B12 , Ainsley and I worked on her Alphabet ..So Funny how a little brain of a 4yr old works, Love it! We began to listen to an alphabet Cd and flipped thru flashcards while she sang into the karaoke mic, quite pleased with her personal singing talent. Next we made a house, Flower garden , pool , and wrap around fence  and 2 princess crowns with Neon Connector blocks , Which Looked Quite flattering on us if we do say so ourselves!lol
 I find it  amusing how Children can learn more from play ,and hands on  time spent with them  than from books sometimes!

 I have enjoyed being a Mommy , along with the "other" things God has chosen to designate me for in this lifetime..EVERYDAY is an adventure!! Tiring? YES! Messy? Yes!!!!! I would not change it for anything , Ill have plenty of time for rest and "clean" when the nest is empty:( So heres to today Crayon marks on the wall, Dolls and transformers scattered about, dishes in the sink, but most of all HAPPY Children:)

New Year...New things

Barely into 2010 and already fantastic things have happened. Brandon and I spent most of our time organizing and weeding out bags of excess clutter on New Years Day.. Literally it was a 10 hr cleaning day, but at the end of the day..WOW what a feeling!! Not sure why New Years always seem like you walk thru an u known diminsion, but it sure feels like a second chance or a restarting point, so ill take it.. New Years service was by far the most amazing one we have ever had pastoring, so a heavy presence of the Lord.. Sat Night prayer was wonderful, God filled a sweet new lady with the Holy Ghost during prayer meeting , and today was just as wonderful! I can hardly wait to see what all is in store for this year, but I know it ll be beyond anything I could have prayed for..I have personally request that i have been taking before the Lord for a very long time know and Im believing this is the season!! So heres to a wonderful new year with many fantastis GOD things ahead

Different is Beautiful.

Yearly we get together with family at Christmas time, and I must say its one of those things that carry me thru till the next get together. I have been blessed with a family who loves each other immensley . We are all very different from each other. We have different talents, abilities and personalities ..Yet we ALL love the Lord and live for him. Whats awesome about that is God can make all "different" kinds of  people work together to make a beautiful master piece.. Thats family a masterpiece of a gift from the Lord.  I see families who let their differences cause pain and wall build up between them. its so sad when WE turn Gods Gift into Grief. Seeing all my beautiful family laughing and interacting together blesses my heart. I know that there are some families where the Love of God does not flow freely making it not quite the thing God made it to be. Sometimes  a "family" bond is more felt with people of like faith and beliefs than it is with your own natural family.God can provide fulfiment for that empty space like non other. What a boring world if we all were alike. Could you imagine  sitting down to a meal where it was all the same thing in every bowl and platter? Yuck..BORING.. I want variety!  I relish my families differences its so beautiful when we all come together. So this year instead of trying to Change every one around you to be who you think they should be..Let them be who God made them to be..So you can be who God made you to be. Hes after all pretty capable of taking care of what he makes. Different Can most definatly be beautiful When  Jesus is at the center of it:)