In HaShem's Hand

Natural Remedies to Help a Cold...

2012-02-16T18:00:00.000-08:00

Due to my having a cold this week, I thought I would share some of the natural remedies that my family has been using.

First, we start drinking honey vinegar 2 - 3 times a day. Put 1 Tbsp Organic Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar in a cup along with 1 Tbsp honey (preferably raw and local) in a coffee cup or mug. Add 1/2 cup hot water and stir. Drink. This helps to kill infection and build your body's natural immunity.

Then we have a colloidal silver maker which we use to make colloidal silver and keep on hand. I take 1 Tbsp of that 3 - 4 times a day.

I've also been drinking a packet of Emergen-C (1,000 mg of Vitamin C plus other vitamins and minerals) in a 1/2 cup of water 2 - 3 times a day.

My family blends a special blend of essential oils called Immune Booster Blend which we also sell on our family's webstore. I use a simple oil tart burner with a tea candle. Most people use these to burn scented tarts, but they also work great to burn essential oils. I put 4 or 5 drops of the Immune Booster Blend in the tart burner and allow it to burn for about 15 minutes. I sit close to it to be able to inhale it and get the full effects of the oils which are good germ killers.

I am also using a drop of Thieves Oil on my tongue as needed to help cut the sore throat as well as gargling with salt water (1/2 tsp salt dissolved in 1/2 cup warm water; gargle and do not swallow).

As a result of this, I feel that I've overall maintained better energy and health that I would have otherwise. I have not needed to go to the doctor when otherwise I would definately have gone. My sore throat on a scale of 1 - 5 was a 4 at the peak. Using natural remedies allows my body to know how to defend itself and does not destroy the good along with the bad as is typical on antibiotics. Try a few of these ideas yourself and see what you think. I'd love to hear your feedback in the comments. Have you tried any of this before? Do you try something?

Fun Adventures...

2012-02-13T13:57:00.000-08:00

This past week was a good yet busy week. My parents and I went off on a night away for my mom's birthday. We went over to see the Newark Holy Stones which were found in an Indian Burial Mound in the Newark, Ohio area which I find very interesting considering the fact that it is very possible the lost ten tribes have integrated into some of the American Indians. These stones have a figure of Moses on them as well as the Ten Commandments written in Hebrew on them.

We enjoyed shopping in the Roscoe village shops as well. Then we returned home in time to see Gaga on Momma's birthday.

On Tuesday, I went home with Nicole, a girlfriend of mine, for a girl's night. We enjoyed going thrift store shopping. Then we ate supper at her home with her very sweet step-mother. Then us girls watched Emma based on the Jane Austin classic. I had never seen it, but I enjoyed it greatly.

Thursday I had my cleaning job for a homeschooling family that I enjoyed greatly. Friday, we got all ready for Shabbat and company as Aunt Daria and her grandkids came for the Shabbat. We enjoyed their company and watched Courageous together that night. Courageous is the newest movie by Sherwood Pictures who also made Flywheel, Facing the Giants, and Fireproof. I greatly enjoyed their new movie and would highly recommend it.

Sunday, I began developing a sore throat, so I am home sick today...not fun...wish I could get rid of the sore throat! I have a slight cold to go with the sore throat, but the throat is always the worst part. Thankfully, my mom is filling me with Vitamin C, Colloidal Silver, Immune Booster Blend, and it is greatly helping.

Chasing Dust Bunnies

2012-02-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

My Sunday and Monday were very busy productive days...probably a bit too much time spent working on the computer, but I did get a lot done. My To Do List has more done on it, than not done which is a good thing! I'm finding that having a daily morning routine helps me to be more productive...now to just get the rest of the day into a routine and that would be good.

Tuesday, I had one of my house cleaning jobs, and I don't know what happened...but the floors were covered in dust. It had only been two weeks, but I was chasing dust bunnies for hours! I'm still sore today from all my chasing as the "bunnies" literally bounced all over the floor. (And I mean literally as the balls of dust and crumbs bounced up and and down on the run as I pushed the vaccum close to them.) I busily ran errands that afternoon after finishing to make the most of my gas into town.

Wednesday was a good day of getting work done on our family recipe book which I hope to publish later this year as well as ministry work for my ministry and Commandment Keepers. We keep adding new authors to Commandment Keepers which is so exciting for me. Then I keep adding more pages to my book which my ministry will be publishing once I finish it. I did not realize how much work writing is until I started this book, but it is so worth it.

We had my grandfather out visiting with us today. He has Alzheimer's, so he sleeps a lot. But we enjoy having him here with us. We've made a banana pudding for him - his favorite desert - and it's cooling on the countertop right now. So I'm off to clean our house and prepare for Shabbat as our congregation will be gathering at our house this coming Shabbat. I can't wait. We're studying the Threshold Covenant, and it is a very interesting topic!

When's Shabbat???

2012-01-25T13:46:00.000-08:00

Well, today is Wednesday which means Shabbat is only 2 days away, and I can't wait. I truly love my weekly time with the Creator worshiping Him and learning more about Him. I am reading through the Bible on a yearly plan, and it is my first time reading through the whole Bible in my Complete Jewish Scriptures version. (I've read through the Bible before, just not this version.) And I have to say that the Scriptures are coming more and more alive for me. Just this week as I'm reading in Exodus as I was reading the account of the Red Sea Crossing, it truly dawned on me that Yahweh had told the children of Israel, I'm going to have you go camp at this location, the Pharaoh of Egypt is going to come and chase you, but I'm going to show myself even stronger than I did in Egypt. Then when the Pharaoh comes chasing them, they start complaining. I had always thought it was a fear reaction, but in reality it was a lack of faith! Yahweh had already told them what He was going to do and how He was going to show Himself even stronger than in Egypt! Wow did that really strike me!

I'm also really enjoying working on Commandment Keepers for Richard Rives. If you have not been there, please check it out. We've got a weekly Torah Commentary on there now too thanks to Mike Clayton! As well as videos, poems, and articles! Something for everyone. Watch it each day as we post 2 new articles every day.

I've also updated my family's webstore and expanded it. We've got a new series of workbooks done by my dad, Terry Boutet, on Discovering Your Freedom in Yeshua HaMosiach. Also, we've added 100% pure essential oils at a very reasonable price - Lavender, Lemon, Peppermint, and 4 Thieves are just some of them!

And in the evenings, my family has been enjoying reading together or watching a teaching video near our warm wood stove. I've also been enjoying getting back to Scrapbooking. Right now, I'm finally doing my trip to Israel from November 2010! :)

Walking...

2012-01-22T15:31:00.000-08:00

Well, I've been busy walking wherever Yahweh sends me which can be quite a varity! This past week, I've mailed packages for Paul Nison, worked on Eddie Chumney's website, published articles on Commandment Keepers (Richard Rives), and worked on a presentation on the head covering for my own ministry. It is amazing the doors the Lord keeps opening for me as long as I'm willing. I just have to trust and obey! Out of obedience comes blessing!

On Tuesday, I had my house cleaning job which I tease is getting paid to exercise versus paying to go to the gym! I enjoy this family - the mom is Jewish and the dad is an atheist...an interesting combination, but a very sweet family. They were having their large area rugs replaced, so I had a lot of wood floors to clean as this was a rare time to get to the actual floor versus rug!

Then on Friday, I was able to meet a friend for lunch. We enjoyed catching up on what had been going on in our lives as well as good food! I've also gotten a lot of website work done this week for my dad. I'm so happy with how his website is turning out. I updated his ministry website - www.restorahtionministries.org as well as some on his webstore - www.restorahtionfarm.com.

And I've enjoyed some great down time with my family. We watched Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and enjoyed some good laughs. We've read together. And so much more! Plus we made snow cream with the recent snowfall...our first decent one of the year.

Clean and Unclean

2012-01-19T11:42:00.000-08:00

This is a superb video that Richard Rives did on Clean and Unclean which is posted on World Net Daily. Go to the video and join in the discussion as the "mainstream believers" are dominating the conversation and really attacking YHVH, His dietary laws, and Richard as well as WND for allowing this to be posted. Let's take a stand together for the God of the Bible!!! http://www.wnd.com/2012/01/does-god-still-care-what-believers-eat/

Clinging To YHVH

2012-01-15T17:13:00.000-08:00

Wow! I haven't blogged in two weeks. That is so unlike me, but I know why... I have been struggling with making sure I'm purposeful in how and what I do. So I've been spending a lot of thinking and praying time. And I really feel like the Lord has confirmed the direction I'm going in and feel even firmer in that direction!!! That is such a freeing position to be. To realize that the Lord is directing you even in small things like finding a book when you are looking for it. It makes me realize that He's working on the big things too! So now I'm back at peace, walking in His will and timing. Even tonight, I was talking with a very good friend, and she confirmed that I was heading in the right direction. Ever since I left Crown, I've felt a loss; however, I have realized that it has been good for me. I'm back fully in the home other than going out to clean for three clients which means 3-4 half days a month are all I'm gone on a regular basis. The rest of the time, I'm doing some part time work from home as well as my ministry which I believe has kept me much more focused on the Lord first, then my family, my close friends who I have made a friendship commitment to, our congregation, and finally other people in my life. I feel that I'm becoming so much more balanced and this is something the Lord needed to do in my life before bringing the right young man into my life. YHVH had to bring my heart fully home and be content there. So I'm clinging to YHVH and trusting His will and way for my life!

Snow!

2012-01-02T15:10:00.000-08:00

Well, we got our first snow today which was beautiful. It's very cold - 23 degrees currently. It will get back into the 40s next week which will be nice! I wasn't able to go to my cleaning job this morning due to the roads, but by late afternoon, it has cleared out meaning that I will be able to go to our local township meeting tonight.

Today ended up working out nicely as I was able to complete a presentation I had been working on for the Hebrew Roots Women's Retreat - Set Apart Gems. I was also able to get all the plug-ins added for social media and working properly for Commandment Keepers, add some new articles, and get more lined up for later in the week. Then this afternoon, I worked on orders, checked e-mail, and helped in the kitchen. A busy productive day!

Shabbat was so relaxing - we listened to various teachings then enjoyed a movie that night as a family. Come What May was what we watched, and it was so encouraging. A great clean Christian movie with a very good story! A must watch for everyone. :)

Then Sunday, we got caught up on things around the house as well as went up to see Gaga which was nice. Well, off to my meeting I go...

Winter SIYH Newsletter

2011-12-29T18:49:00.000-08:00

I just posted the Winter 2011 Standing in YHVH's Hand Ministries Newsletter to our website which you can find at www.standinginyhvhshand.org/newsletter_winter11.htm. Please be sure to take a few minutes to read it!

Can't Wait for Shabbat

2011-12-29T18:30:00.000-08:00

This past week has been quiet in some ways...in other ways, it has been busy. I've really been enjoying working on Commandment Keepers. I'm very excited about the progress being made there and the awareness for the new project.

I've also gotten back into my writing on my book and finishing up my presentations. I'd really like to have them totally done - outlined, then details and Scriptures added, then the animation and pictures put into place by the Spring of 2012. I've got seven I've been working on and two are totally done. The third one is about half done and coming along really well.

I enjoyed some sewing this week. Daddy and I worked on hemming up some clothes that had been needing to be done for a bit. We worked together, and it did not take long at all.

Then too I have been enjoying reading more as well these past couple of weeks. I read a really good fiction book - first in a while - called Lion of Babylon by Davis Bunn. It is about a CIA agent who had lost his job because his wife had been ill then died; however, he get's called back to work when his best friend goes missing in Iraq. It is a Christian book, but it was amazing to me the details that he brought in that we even understand as Messianics such as a brief reference to the Salt Covenant! :) I would recommend reading it.

Well, the house is clean, dinner for Shabbat is ready, and I'm looking forward to a good preparation day.

Catch up...

2011-12-21T18:48:00.000-08:00

Well, it has been a while since I have posted, and that makes me realize I need to get back writing! One thing I can say is that I'm doing better on making my family a focus and less time on the computer. :) And that is indeed a good thing. The time that I do spend on the computer is definitely ministry time.

I am making good progress on my ministry which I detailed in my latest newsletter. That newsletter will be posted on the SIYH website by the end of the month, and I'll put a link up here.

I am also now working for Richard Rives of www.toolong.com and helping him with his website Commandment Keepers which is a website where all Commandment Keeping people can post articles, read the many articles there and being posted daily, and find fellowship. Do be sure to check out www.commandmentkeepers.com.

Waiting, Watching, or Walking - Making the Most of My Single Years

2011-12-10T10:06:00.000-08:00

We hear so much about "waiting for my future spouse"; however, I think there is so much more to it than just "waiting." In fact as singles, I believe there are three states we can be in - waiting, watching, or walking, but which state is right? Or are they all okay?

Waiting means I am in a state of rest and while we should be content or at rest in Yahweh's hands and His plan for our lives, there is connotation of sitting and "doing nothing but waiting." Should I be sitting and waiting as though my life has no value now as a single? Absolutely not! Our life does not begin when I get married. My life is going on now, and I need to be making the most of it. Some specific charges are given in Scripture - serving our family, serving our congregation, being productive, and being an example or testimony. 1 Timothy 4:15 tells us "Don't let anyone look down on you because of your youth; on the contrary, set the believers an example in your speech, behavior, love, trust and purity." Then in 1 Corinthians 12:14, we are told “And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it: or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it.” Which means that as part of the body of our physical family and our spiritual family, we need to be involved and part of it. So in the overall picture, we see "waiting" is not a complete picture of where we should be as singles.

Watching is noticing every single species of the opposite sex. Is he the one? He might be! If that is your normal response to any that guy walks by or even gives you a second glance, you are definitely watching! And this goes for guys too! This is very emotionally distracting. You are so busy trying to impress this guy or that girl you miss out on the fun of being a single. You see Yahweh has given us the single years to establish our foundation in Him. Deuteronomy 6:5 says "and you are to love ADONAI your God with all your heart, all your being and all your resources." While we are single, we have the freedom to study, learn, and attend teaching events like we will not have the freedom to do once we are married and have commitments to fulfill. This is a time to enjoy being single and loving our Messiah!

Walking is a state of activity. It means that I am doing something. We are called to be pursuers of God always seeking Him according to Psalm 105:4 "Seek ADONAI and his strength; always seek his presence" and lights unto the world according to Matthew 5:16 "In the same way, let your light shine before people, so that they may see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven." I need to focus on growing my relationship with Yahweh; then out of that growth, I need to seek to reach others for Yeshua. There are many ways you can do this. First of all, contentment and trust in Yahweh's plan and timing are key. Then doing what Yahweh has called me to is important. For each person, it will be something different. For one, it might be staying at home and serving my family. For another, it might be learning a trade and getting a job in that field. For yet another, it might be serving in a field of ministry. I have found that as I stay focused on what Yahweh has given me to do, it gives me freedom to focus on being the me that I am designed to be. Then in Yahweh's perfect timing, He will bring the perfect spouse into my life, and we will walk together and serve Him. I really love this quote by Dr. Don Raunikar which says “You don’t have to do anything but concentrate on being the right person – the person God wants you to be – instead of finding the right person. Godly marriages are made by first living Godly lives. It is God’s responsibility to whether you will marry and when you will marry. The arrangement is up to Him. How simple…God is [then] the matchmaker.”

So what are you doing right now - Waiting, Watching, or Walking? And what will you do to begin walking if you are not already?

Ministry Focused...

2011-11-30T17:07:00.000-08:00

Well, this week I have been working to become more organized and focused on the ministry that YHVH has given me. I've written the first draft to an article that I'll be publishing either later this week or early next as well as worked on finishing up everything I can on the legal paperwork. That will hopefully soon be done. Now, to finish up the PowerPoints to go with the presentations I have so far, wrap up the planning for the women's retreat, write my winter newsletter, get better at having a Facebook presence, fund-raise, and begin recording for my upcoming internet shows! That wore me out writing that; however, I know this is what YHVH has given me to do. Not that I don't want to get married someday soon, but I know that as a single woman I need to be making the most of my time...and then even when I marry, I can still have a ministry...just may have to be structured differently. But I'm trusting YHVH and His timing! I'll keep focused on Him and serving Him until that time. :)

Monday, Gaga had his annual check up with his neurologist to check on his Alzeihmer's. They do 2 mental capacity tests. One remained the same, the other fell 64% which was not good. We've noticed that he's getting frustrated more...and has some days that are more clear...and others not so good. He has done well through the loss of Nana...but we know that could not have been easy on him. We got Taco Bell and took that in to the nursing home to eat. Yesterday, we were able to get his lift chair repaired. The remote had gone out on it, so that was an easy fix! Then yesterday and today, Momma and I have gotten a lot done around the house and began preparing for our Shabbat gathering of which I cannot wait. :)

Black Friday Shopping

2011-11-27T14:25:00.000-08:00

While my family does not celebrate Christmas due to it's pagan origins and instead follow what Scripture commands (celebrate the 7 Biblical Feast Days), Black Friday is a good day to pick up some deals on items that you need. Walmart had what I was in need of - a nice camcorder for my ministry to be able to record videos for YouTube. It was normally $160, yet it was on sale for $99. It went on sale at midnight on Thursday, so we headed for Walmart late in the evening and got there at 15 till 12. It was CROWDED!!!! However, after asking a few people for help, I found the display for the camcorders I wanted. They only had twelve. All of the displays were still wrapped in plastic and would be ripped open at midnight. I asked the gentleman standing there watching over the display if he could turn one around in order for me to read the specs on the back and make sure this was the one I wanted. He not only did that, but he took it out and allowed me to easily read it before putting it back. When they started ripping open the displays, he ripped that one open and handed me the first one as we had been there politely talking with him while waiting. I was then looking for some memory cards. I asked people had they seen them, and they kindly directed me to them. It was interesting to me to see how pushy and shovey people were towards other yet they treated me with respect. Why? My mom and I were the only ones wearing skirts and headcoverings. That was very interesting to me. And I had a successful shopping trip - got the camcorder, the memory cards, and the board game I was after!

We got home around 1am and went to bed! The next day, Daddy went and got a few things he wanted from Dick's...while Momma and I stayed home and got ready for Shabbat. We then listened to Mike Clayton and Monte Judah. Shabbat morning, we listened to Eddie Chumney while I ran his PalTalk room. Then that night, Momma and Daddy ran their paper route while I talked with my "lil' sister" Laura which is our Saturday night tradition! Today has been a good day getting a lot done - fixing a skirt, cutting out a jumper, answering e-mails, meal planning for Shabbat, preparing herb orders, etc. Now it's time for supper!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T13:38:00.001-08:00

Wow! My mom knows how to cook a feast! We had turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, apple banana salad, and pumpkin pie with homemade whipped cream. Everything was from scratch and as fresh as possible. The pumpkin pie was from fresh pumpkins...and the sweet potato casserole was from fresh sweet potatoes. I enjoyed eating some of everything and yet did my best to not overeat. We are enjoying some good family time - eating, checking out the "Black Friday" sale ads, and now playing games. So a very Happy Thanksgiving Day to you! And did you realize that the first American Thanksgiving was really a Sukkot celebration???

Davidic Dance!

2011-11-22T11:21:00.000-08:00

Shabbat was so relaxing. We listened to Eddie in the morning, then we enjoyed hearing Mike Clayton in the afternoon. It is so good to have him back after his "shabbatical" where he took a year off. If you have not had a chance to hear him teach, please check out his ministry - Joined to HaShem Ministries. I've had the opportunity to meet and work with him in person as well as work with him and his delightful wife, Kathy...and their youngest son, Daniel. Their entire family has such a love for serving YHVH!

Then on Sunday afternoon, I went to a Davidic Dance Camp taught by Ralph and Mindy Seta. Mindy does most of the teaching and was a very good teacher. She has a bit different style than I'm used to since all the dancing I've learned has been from Camp Yeshua/Ann Judah. I like the Camp Yeshua style more-so as 1. I'm used to it and 2. It is more general footwork versus working in more clogging/tap dance type steps. But it was great to learn a new version as well. And Mindy has such a heart for worship.

Yesterday was my every other week house cleaning job, so it was good to be up moving and work out my soreness from dancing! Then I got a lot done yesterday afternoon. Now today, Momma and I made a batch of cookies for Thanksgiving as well as worked on a few things around the house and sold a few items we had listed on Craigslist. We're off to see my Gaga now...so talk with you again soon as my goal is to get back to blogging twice a week now! :)

Family First...

2011-11-19T09:52:00.000-08:00

Sorry for not being as faithful at blogging these past couple of weeks. I've been focusing again on balance of computer time and family time...and of course family comes first. :)

The week before last, my parents and I got to go up to Holmes County for Thursday and Friday. We had to go up and get chicken feed, but we decided to take some family time. We were able to get a hotel room using our points from our credit card rewards...then we packed our meals...so we ended up with no cost except for our gas which we were going to spend anyway to get the feed. We got to check out Lehman's, the thrift store (where I found a skirt for $2, a beautiful tea cup and saucer set with roses on it for 50 cents, and a book by Larry Burkett my favorite financial author for 10 cents!), the antique mall, and so much more! We figured out that we had not been off as a family and stayed overnight in at least 2 years! We really needed this special family time after all the changes that our family has been through this late Summer/Fall.

This past week was a normal week at home for our family busy getting a lot done. Now, we are enjoying a nice relaxing Shabbat as a family...

Holding Pattern

2011-11-04T16:13:00.001-07:00

This was my daily encouragement from E-mail Ministry, and it was really encouraging...so I wanted to share it!

Many times God will allow a painful situation or a painful circumstance in

our life to "swallow us up." This season in our spiritual growth is a

holding pattern. We can't move to the left or the right. All we can do is

sit, like Jonah sat in the belly of that great fish, so God can have our

undivided attention and speak to us. God put Jonah in a holding pattern

because He needed to speak to his heart. Jonah was all alone. There were no

friends to call, no colleagues to drop by, no books to read, no food to eat,

no interference, and no interruptions. He had plenty of time to sit, think,

meditate, and pray.

When we're deep down in the midst of a difficult situation, God can talk to

us. When He has our undivided attention, He can show us things about

ourselves that we might not otherwise have seen.

A Few of God's Holding Patterns:

1. When you are sick in your physical body and you have prayed but God has

not healed you yet, you are in a holding pattern

2. When you are having problems with your children and you have put them on

the altar, but God has not delivered them yet, you are in a holding

pattern.

3. When you have been praying for the salvation of a loved one and they have

not been saved yet, you are in a holding pattern.

4. When you are in a broken relationship and you have given it over to God,

but it has not been restored yet, you are in a holding pattern.

5. When the doors slam shut before you can knock on them, you are in a

holding pattern.

When we are deep in the belly of a difficult situation, there are no

interruptions. God has our undivided attention. All we can do is sit, think,

meditate, and pray. We cannot run from God because there are no Mountains

that are high enough, valleys low enough, rooms that are dark enough, or

places that are hidden enough from Him. We must remember to praise Him while

we're waiting and remember three things:

1. The pattern has a purpose.

2. The pattern has a plan.

3. The pattern has a process.

So stop struggling and start listening, praying and trusting. He'll keep you

right where you are until you can clearly hear Him say, "I love you."

Prayer: Father, forgive my unbelief. I know You Love me and will turn

anything around to benefit me. You have planned nothing for me but victories

and I am ready to receive them regardless of how difficult the path. Amen

The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance

between your knees and the floor. The one who kneels to the Lord can stand

up to anything.

-- Author Unknown

Good Week...

2011-11-04T16:07:00.000-07:00

This past week was a good week. I had a couple of days where I struggled emotionally, but YHVH reminded me that He was there, it was really about walking by faith even when it doesn't all make sense, and that my Momma and Daddy love me! :)

Yesterday afternoon, we needed to run some errands, so we all went as a family. It was the most fun I've had since Sukkot, and the best family time we've had in a long time. We went and looked at bikes, got groceries, went shoe shopping, and ate supper out! It was such a nice time. I even finished tying my last tzitzit order to be done after Sukkot as I had come back to quite the pile of orders to do! :)

Today, we got the house cleaned before noon, the paper route done, and everything ready for our Shabbat Gathering tomorrow. I am looking forward to it.

Book Review: Life in Spite of Me

2011-10-26T16:34:00.000-07:00

When I went to read Life in Spite of Me by Kristen Jane Anderson I wasn't sure if it would be "dark" or depressive due to the topic. And while you could feel Kristen's pain and understand it, she brought such a light to the healing process that you were uplifted by reading the book. I also felt like I could better recognize the signs of someone struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts. This is a must read for teens, parents, and anyone working with teens.

Sukkot was Amazing...Sukkot was Amazing...Sukkot was Amazing!!!!

2011-10-26T12:49:00.000-07:00

Sukkot was absolutely amazing! I've been to 4 Sukkots including this year, and this one was the best of them all. It began by friends of ours coming up from Georgia on Tuesday. It was nice to be able to spend time with them. Then on Wednesday, Daria who is like an aunt to me came.

Thursday was when it all really began. We were busy getting the Turkey cooked for our Thanksgiving dinner which was our traditional opening meal. Then Daddy went to pick Richard Rives (our speaker) up from the airport. We really enjoyed having Richard here. He is a quiet and humble man with a huge heart for serving YHVH. You can check out his work at www.toolong.com.

We got all the food cooked and ready...then we all headed over to the Township Hall which we had set up earlier in the day. We fed 28 people at supper. Then we had a community wide event with Richard speaking on Biblical Archeology and the Biblical Covenant. We had 46 people in attendance for that. Jacob (who is 16 and my younger "brother") was there with his family. They had been planning to Sukkot with us; however, due to some health issues, they weren't going to be able to. Jacob and I were both very disappointed. We were washing dishes and discussing that. He told me, "I tried to talk my mom into letting me come up and camp that week, but she wasn't sure about me inviting myself." I told him, "I talked to my mom about you coming up for the week, but she wasn't sure how comfortable your mom would be about that." So we went to his parents together, and by the end of the night, it was planned that they would come up on Monday as a family and leave Jacob to stay until Thursday! Then we would later get it extended to Friday...then Shabbat. It was wonderful having him here. We had so much fun!

Anyway back to the chronology. Richard spoke on Friday and Saturday sharing about his archeology digs including finding Noah's Ark! He also explained the pagan origins of much of mainstream Christianity and how we need to return to the Truth of the Scriptures. It was very good! Plus I'll be working with Richard on a project called Commandment Keepers. More will be coming about that soon. Daddy took Richard back to the airport early Sunday morning for him to be able to return home, get his family, and head to speak at 3 more Sukkots!

Sunday was a relaxing more laid back day as we were all tired out after the busy weekend. We also lost our weekend folks and were down to our core group which was 14 of us. We had over doubled our core group from last year's Sukkot as well as tripled our weekend group. My chiropractor came and spoke on Living Well for the First 100 Years that afternoon.

Then on Monday morning, our toilet got stopped up. When Daddy went to plunge it, Daria saw water coming out of our laundry room. It was backing up our emergency drain in there. We called the plumber who told us what to check to determine if it was a plumbing line issue or a septic tank issue. It turned out to be the septic tank was full, so we needed to have it pumped. We called the company that our regular plumber recommended. We explained that we were hosting Sukkot with a house full of people, and they came in 1 hour to pump us out! So we were barely without a bathroom. Plus everyone pitched in to help us get cleaned up. It made a large job very manageable.

That afternoon, Mike taught a class on Introduction to Essential Oils. Jacob's family got here soon after lunch and joined us for the class. Then that night, we enjoyed being out around the campfire and fellowshipping. I also taught my first ever Davidic Dance Class. It went really well, and I was very pleased. I taught Old Friend and Dance with Me in this class after explaining the basic steps. Later in the week, Jacob and I would learn how to do the couples version of Dance with Me in order to show and explain to the dance class. It was nice to have my brother do it with me, and we got it down really quick. I'd have to say that is one of my crowning dance achievements. :)

Tuesday, Mike led the morning and afternoon sessions. Then he and Elaine (who are from GA) had to head on towards home due to them moving the end of this month. That evening, Daddy led the midrash on Nehemiah's Wall, and we watched Facing the Giants. Wednesday, Paul led our morning and evening midrashes. We did dance class that afternoon as we had been doing it each afternoon. Thursday morning, we had our breakfast brunch of eggs, hash browns, pancakes, fruit, turkey bacon, and cinnamon rolls. Boy was I full after that. Then Paul and Tamara had to head on home. They have animals and were only able to get animal care through that day. We did an evening midrash. Then we got down to my family, Daria, Jacob, and Joseph. Jacob's family would be coming on Shabbat...so we enjoyed just being "family." Daria also went and got her grandkids to come out and visit. Ashley and Matthew seemed to really take to Jacob and I. We got to be the "big sister and brother" to them. I really enjoyed them! Friday afternoon, Daddy led a midrash on "Are you sitting on your trunk - A Study of Rachel?" which was very good. Then Shabbat evening, Joseph headed for home. And after that Jacob and his family left. I was really sad by now. It was too quiet in the house! Daria and her grandkids stayed a bit longer and left Sunday after lunch. Then it was back to us. That was nice yet sad at the same time.

Now, I've begun the countdown to the next Shabbat Gathering, planning a youth/young adult outing, Passover, Shavuot, Camp Yeshua, and next Sukkot!!! :)

You can see pictures at http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2354569377588.130923.1050784025&type=1&l=8c13a693d3.

Sukkot is Coming...Sukkot is Coming...Sukkot is Coming!!!

2011-10-04T19:00:00.000-07:00

Sukkot is Coming...Sukkot is Coming...Sukkot is Coming!!!

It is hard to believe that Sukkot will be here in 9 days!!! The first family will arrive here in exactly a week. I cannot wait to see all my wonderful Torah observant friends and get to spend 10 days with them...worshiping YHVH, studying, Davidic dancing, and so much more. Even Kosher S'mores. :) But there is still a lot to do between now and then.

Today, we had a woodstove put in our home, and I'm so looking forward to enjoying that over the winter. It looks really nice and fits in our home so well.

This past Shabbat was our monthly gathering, and we welcomed a few new ones to our group. It is nice to be joined by new ones and continue to grow. For Sukkot, we are going to have 16-25 depending on the day which is 9 family groups and triple our numbers last year! That doesn't include our special event with Richard Rives which will be 40+ people...we have room for up to 160...so if you are reading this and want to join us to hear Richard's report on Biblical Archeology and his digs in Israel, please check out my Facebook or www.yaakovsflock.org.

We also put up 60+ jars of grape juice...now to do some squash and the last of the cucumbers...then the final sukkot prep...and our normal weekly things...life is busy, but I'm loving it!

Cedar Point and a "New Normal"

2011-09-21T19:26:00.000-07:00

This past week was a good week finding a new normal. It was nice to be home the whole week and getting caught up on website work, uploading large files for that at the library, cleaning my much needing attention craft table, working on my ministry, my Paul work, and helping with the family bakery. I really enjoyed being home more and with my family.

Then on Sunday, a friend from our congregation, Joseph, and I went up to Cedar Point. For those of you who have never heard of Cedar Point, it is a large amusement park about 2 hours from my house. We drove there Sunday morning, had a picnic lunch, and then spent the entire day in the park. I don't like roller coasters; however, we found plenty of other rides I would ride such as the Scrambler, Super Himalaya, Cedar Downs, and Dodgem. I haven't had so much in such a long time! I can't wait to go back again sometime soon!

A New Normal

2011-09-13T14:24:00.000-07:00

My family has been adjusting to a new normal. It still seems like the phone should ring and it should be Nana. I'd love to go watch a movie with her or eat dinner with her. Or just sit in her lap. But I can't do that now, so I choose to treasure those memories and live a life that would make her proud of me! And I can help take care of my Gaga to the best of my ability to honor both of them.

As we have adjusted, we have had a lot of catch up with our family bakery to play. We took that whole week off which put us behind, but by working together, we are getting more caught up and doing well these last couple of months of the Summer Farmer's Markets. Now to just find Winter outlets to help expand our reach in the Winter as well as to begin working on our website to be able to offer online orders for local pickup and mail order.

I enjoyed getting back into my cleaning jobs and getting my schedule fully situated to being away from home less. I'm now cleaning on Mondays for a weekly job and one Thursday a month for another job. I have a third job that is for an older couple who spends their summers here and winters in Florida, so they have already returned to Florida and that job is on hold until their return.

We had our Shabbat Gathering this past Shabbat, and it was so nice to once again gather with fellow believers. Almost all of our regulars were there as well as two new families. I shared about my trip to Camp Yeshua, and two of the families who have 16 year old sons hope to be able to send them this next year as well. We then discussed Sukkot and made more plans for that. It is hard to believe that in exactly one month from today, Sukkot will have started! Then we enjoyed a midrash on Who Owns It? We discussed how YHVH really owns everything, and we are the stewards. It was interesting how we were each able to bring out different insights from the various passages.

And today our house smells heavenly as we have baked Apple Pies, Peach Cobblers, Cinnamon Rolls, Orange Rolls, Cinnamon Swirl Bread, and Challah. Plus I've even gotten some work in too! :) Now, I'm off to finish my ministry newsletter!

What a Week It has Been

2011-09-03T08:55:00.000-07:00

What a week it has been. I'm glad I did not know what this week held a few months ago. YHVH provided the grace I needed as I needed it. And his timing was absolutely perfect in so many ways. Nana graduated to her heavenly home just a little over a week ago...it's still hard to believe...and I miss her so much! Yet her homegoing was so peaceful. She knew us when we got there to the nursing home and told us she loved us. She stayed alert and was asking for my dad. Once he got there, she told him "take care" and he couldn't understand the rest of what she was trying to tell him. Her voice was getting so weak, she was hard to understand. What she always told him when we went to leave was "take care of my girls", so we know that was what she was trying to tell him. After that, she began sleeping much of the day.

She was alert enough to know us only two more times and very briefly. The first time, she knew both Momma and I...the second time was very brief when some of the staff were checking her condition. She gave me a very special gift. She wasn't responding to the staff, but when she heard my voice, she quirked her left eyebrow, then opened her eyes to look directly at me. She wasn't able to speak at that point, but she gave me a smile. I knew that she knew me and my voice and that I loved her very much.

Interestingly enough, my Gaga (grandfather) who has Alzheimer's wasn't understanding and accepting that she was dying. Around 4:15pm, it began to hit him. He went out of the room for a little bit crying...then he came back in. He gave her a kiss, told Nana he loved her, then sat down and began crying. It was as if Nana knew that he was accepting the physical loss of her and was going to be okay as she went to Messiah at 4:23pm. The nurse had been in with us for about a half hour and explaining everything that was going on. We had also had a very dear friend, Daria, with us. Daria is like a sister to my mom and an aunt to me. She too has walked this road as she lost her husband right after Sukkot two years ago. Her being with us and all the support she would provide over the next week was a total God send.

That evening, we went down to the internet cafe there in the nursing home and had supper with my Gaga and enjoyed some fellowship...it was a good mental distraction. My friend, Nicole, had also come to be with us and stayed for quite a while.

Then Shabbat was a down day at home as we began to let people know that Nana had passed away and think through arrangements. Then Sunday, we were surrounded by friends. That morning, we met with and made the arrangements with the funeral home. Then Uncle Mark and Aunt Debbie came over and brought lunch. Then we were joined that afternoon by Daria and Joseph (a young man from our congregation). Joseph came bearing supper. Monday, we went up to order the family flowers, check on Gaga, and then came back home for lunch. My friend, Nicole, had called wanting to bring lunch over...and from my favorite restaurant (Chick-fil-A)! She was able to stay and visit until we needed to head back up to Gaga's as my uncle (by blood) was coming in from Georgia. He's my mother's only brother...the rest of my "aunt's" and "uncle's" are of the spiritual family and adopted in. :) Uncle Bobby and his oldest son, Shannon, were coming in for the funeral and came to meet us at the nursing home where Gaga lives. After visiting there a bit, we all came out to our home for supper. Joseph brought in another delicious supper. Eddie came in about 8pm, and our neighbor across the street, Annie, brought over food and fellowshipped for a while.

It was a total answer to prayer as to the timing and that Eddie was able to come and do the service. He and I had spoken about it back a while; however, since he is on the road so much, schedule can sometimes become an issue. YHVH worked it all out perfectly. The funeral home told us to plan on a Tuesday or later funeral by the time they got everything ready. Eddie was flying home and getting in Monday evening from speaking in Tulsa, so he literally flew in and drove straight to our home. He was with us Monday evening and all day Tuesday. It was such a blessing, comfort, and strength to us. And even though Eddie didn't know my grandmother personally, he had encouraged us to talk about her with him Monday evening and Tuesday morning, so when he gave the message Tuesday morning at the funeral, he did a wonderful job of incorporating things about my grandmother...like the time she gave away her Bible to one of the aides in assisted living.

Tuesday morning, we had the funeral there at the graveside. One of the Mennonite families with a lot of children blessed us with some of Nana's favorite hymns. Eddie gave the message, I shared a few of my favorite memories, and Clyde (our previous Mennonite pastor and good friend) gave some closing words of encouragement. After the funeral, we all came back to the house where our congregation had brought in food to feed us all...we had a delicious meal of chicken, scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, salad, bread, and brownies. Special thanks to all who brought!

We then enjoyed fellowshipping, talking, showing family pictures, and relaxing. It was so good and healing for us as a family to be surrounded by fellow believers who were seeking to encourage us. I enjoyed playing some Phase 10 with some of the other young ones...then David, Eddie, and I played a round. Poor Eddie got quite well beat, but he had a blast at it! Then Eddie and I played a board game called Paul's Journeys. It was mid to late evening when everyone left.

Wednesday was a quiet day when we were all recovering physically from all the going and doing. Thursday the emotions hit us as we were physically recovered and could not really feel the emotions. I went up and spent some time with Gaga that evening, and it just didn't seem quite right to not have Nana there. Friday, Daria and her grandkids came over and helped us put up relish from the cucumbers our neighbor had let us pick from their garden which was a huge help. Then yesterday was a Shabbat...and Shabbat we did! Then I enjoyed a nice long conversation with my "sister" Laura...it was so nice...we had a great heart to heart girl conversation. :)

Please keep us in prayer as we adjust to a new normal...

My Beloved Nana is in the Messiah's Arms Now...

2011-08-31T15:29:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry I have been remiss in posting on my blog...however, we did indeed lose my Nana (my grandmother - my mom's mom) this past Friday, August 26.

Friday Morning Update

We are with Nana right now...the hospice nurse said she'll be surprised if Nana makes it through the day. She is sleeping and only rarely opens her eyes. She is only recognizing family...not even friends she has known for 10 years. Please keep praying! And a special thanks to those who have called, posted, e-mail...and especially those who are with us in person!

Friday around 5pm

Nana passed away about 20 minutes ago. Please pray for my family as we move into the grieving process. She went so peacefully...it was very assuring...she just went to sleep as my mom sang to her...she's safe in the Messiah's arms now. Funeral info will be posted as soon as we know details.

Funeral Information

Thank you so much for your thoughts, prayers, and notes. As promised here are funeral arrangements for my grandmother/Nana – Lee Houchins…

Funeral will be Tuesday, August 30 at 10am

At Watkins Cemetery on Cemetery Rd right off of Watkins-California Rd, Ostrander, Ohio

Followed by visiting hours with the family at the home of Carol Boutet (daughter)

Arrangements are being handled by

Ingram Funeral Home, Marysville, OH

Cards and Notes may be mailed to:

The Houchins Family And The Boutet Family

8780 Long Rd, Ostrander, OH 43061

Family Prayer Request

2011-08-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

I have been remiss in blogging lately...but I believe the below family prayer request will explain why. Would you please pray for and with us?

We wanted to share with you a bit of what our family is currently experiencing. Carol’s mom is really not doing well. She is failing and failing fast. We do not know how much longer we are going to have her. She is barely eating, has constant stomach pain, is generally in pain, and then fell out of bed Thursday night. As it stands, the doctor told us “There really isn’t much more we can do.” It is basically a matter of time. The doctor is not giving us a time frame, but unless she makes a drastic improvement, it does not look like we will have much more time with her. Please pray for her and for our family as we walk through this...

Life with Bronchitis

2011-08-06T13:47:00.000-07:00

Well, I got home from Camp Yeshua in the wee hours of Saturday morning. My parents graciously picked us up at 1:30am! We had planned to be home right after Sunset Friday evening; however, our plane was delayed by three hours on top of our already long 3 hour layover. So Nicole and I ended up spending 6 hours in the St. Louis airport! At least, I had good company. :)

After getting home, we enjoyed some blissful rest, and then a wonderful relaxing Shabbat. I don't think I quit talking as I enjoyed telling Mommy and Daddy about Camp Yeshua so much. We also went up to see Nana and Gaga for a while which I greatly enjoyed as I had missed all my family while I was gone.

Then Sunday morning, I woke up not feeling so well. By that afternoon, we could certainly tell that I was coming down with something. I assumed it was a reaction to all the dust exposure we had at Camp Yeshua. Each evening when we enjoyed Starlight Dancing, we ended up kicking up a large red dust cloud due to the dryness caused by a 6 week drought there in Oklahoma. I continued to treat it as a reaction to that until Wednesday when it had become full blown bronchitis! And it lasted me a full 2 weeks...2 weeks of being sick is no fun! Nicole also came down with it...she shared it with her stepmom and grandma...I shared it with my dad. I don't think any of them appreciated our generosity.

I did have a chance to talk with a nurse and a massage therapist who confirmed that it was due to the high level of dust exposure which then inflamed the bronchi in my lungs and created the issue. Nicole and I then passed it on. I'm finally feeling better. I'm not contagious and no longer feel most of the symptoms. I just have that annoying lingering cough. As soon as I can get rid of it, then I'll finally have all my energy back. So my life has been filled with tissues, cough drops, and natural remedies these past few weeks along with the inability to talk due to the coughing. I'm just glad to be reclaiming life now and back to normal. The last few days I've been able to resume my normal work schedule and am looking forward to resuming my other regular activities this week including blogging. :)

An Injustice Done to Eddie Chumney

2011-08-06T13:38:00.000-07:00

GLC has pulled Eddie Chumney's program on their channel all due to a false accusation. Here are the details about what has happened in Eddie's own words. PLEASE CALL GLC AND EXPRESS YOUR DISPLEASURE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Today, I have received notice from GLC (God's Learning Channel) that my weekly television program teaching Hebrew roots will be taken OFF THE AIR. This came as a TOTAL SHOCK to me. It was completely unexpected.

What is so SHOCKING is that the reason given was based upon FALSE ACCUSATIONS. These accusations are that I teach Ephraimite / Two House BLOODLINE IDENTITY. This is 100% false. I actually teach just the OPPOSITE.

I have about 26 minutes to do a weekly GLC program. I have done over 100 programs. I try to make a point to say that SAME thing over and over again for the first 12 minutes of the program. I teach that the ENTIRE BIBLE is written about Yeshua (Psalm 40:7, Hebrews 10;7). He said that the Torah, Prophets and Psalms are written of HIM (Luke 24:44)

I teach that Yeshua created the heavens and earth (John 1:3, 10, Colossians 2:16-17). I teach that Yeshua made covenant with Abraham (Galatians 3:16, 29). I teach that the ROCK that was with the children of Israel in the wilderness is Yeshua (I Corinthians 10:4). I teach the Yeshua is the RIGHT HAND that defeated Pharoah and his army in the Red Sea (Exodus 15:6).

I teach that the RIGHT HAND and ARM that defeated the enemies of the children of Israel in the promised land (Psalm 44:2-3) is Yeshua (Isaiah 53:1). I teach that Yeshua saves and is the Savior (Matthew 1:21) and (Luke 2:11). I teach that Yeshua is the lawgiver (James 4:12, Hebrews 12:24-26, John 14:15, Exodus 20:6).

I teach that a marriage took place at mount Sinai (Jeremiah 2:1-3, Ezekiel 16:8).

I teach that the 12 tribes of Israel broke the covenant at mount Sinai (Exodus 32) and were exiled into the nations of the world. Babylon took the Southern Kingdom captivity. Assyria took the Northern Kingdom captivity. The Northern Kingdom was judged by being scattered (Hosea 1:3) being given the status of "no mercy" (Hosea 1:6) and "not my people" (Hosea 1;9). Yet they would become sons of the living God (Hosea 1:10) and thus believers in Yeshua as the Messiah (John 1:12).

I teach that Messiah Yeshua died to gather and united the 12 tribes of Israel according to His own testimony (John 11:16-17) and repeated in (John 11:49-52). I teach that Yeshua RENEWED the covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah (Jeremiah 31:31, Hebrews 8:8) by writing the Torah upon our hearts (Jeremiah 31:33, Hebrews 8:10). I teach that the WILD branches are GRAFTED IN (Romans 11:17) and become members of the commonwealth of Israel (Ephesians 2:12).

I teach that Yeshua died for ALL people (John 3:16) and that ALL people can join his new covenant family. When they do, they are ADOPTED and GRAFTED into the family of Messiah which He will rule over forever which is the house of Jacob (Luke 1;33). I teach that BOTH Jew and non-Jew are to express their faith in Messiah by loving Him and keeping His commandments (John 14:15).

Plain and simply speaking, I teach that being a member of Messiah's family is NOT based upon BLOODLINE IDENTITY. Yet, this is the ACCUSATION and the reason given for my dismissal from being a programmer on God's Learning Channel. The EVIDENCE of my testimony is the weekly TV programs themselves and the "Light of the Southwest" program which I have been on numerous times.

I am NOT trying to defend what I teach on GLC because of financial gain. Except for the last visit to GLC, Hebraic Heritage Ministries has paid the travel expenses to be on GLC. I have been generous to GLC. I gave GLC 100 DVD's of "Yeshua: From Genesis to Revelation" to help raise $10,000 to upgrade a GLC satellite in the Philippines. Often when I am on "Light of the Southwest", GLC chooses to replay the program over and over again. They are quite popular.

IF the accusations were TRUE that I teach Ephraimite ./ Two House BLOODLINE IDENTITY and GLC didn't want this teached then this would be one thing BUT I DON'T teach this but this is the reason given for being taken off GLC.

Since I have not derived any substantial gain from being on GLC but on the contrary HHMI has paid much of the travel expenses for being at GLC and have given of the resources of HHMI to GLC to help them raise money for worthwhile projects, my complaint it NOT about money. It is about standing for TRUTH and RIGHTEOUSNESS.

The Torah requires us to STAND for TRUTH and RIGHTEOUSNESS. This is my motivation and this is the cause that I want you to join with me. I will stand that Yeshua died on the tree to gather and unite the 12 tribes of Israel. Since evangelical Christianity WON'T teach it and the MJAA, UMJC won't teach it. I WILL.

The SHEEP of Messiah has been LIED to LONG ENOUGH. The SHEEP of Messiah MUST know WHY Yeshua died on the tree at his first coming and WHY He is coming again. The BRIDE MUST MAKE HERSELF READY. So, FALSE ACCUSATIONS by the enemy against this message CANNOT be aloud to stand.

This is what I am requesting all my friends and my friends, friends to do. Call or write GLC and express your displeasure of this injustice. I am asking fellow Hebrew roots GLC programmers to stand with me regarding this issue. Please encourage them as you see them to make their voice heard and stand with me.

Please call or write Al and Tommie Cooper:

The GLC phone number is: 800-707-0420.

The e-mail address of Al Cooper is: ao@glc.us.com.

The e-mail of Tommie Cooper is: tlcglc82@yahoo.com.

Thank you for your support and your stance for TRUTH and RIGHTEOUSNESS !!!!

Camp Yeshua 2011, Part 1

2011-07-23T09:21:00.001-07:00

If I had to sum up Camp Yeshua 2011 with one word, it could only be AMAZING! It was once again an awesome YHVH filled time. Often times the first time you go somewhere it is the best time. Well, I can honestly say that this time was even better. I didn't know if it was possible...but it was!

I had the privaledge of leading with my friend, Nicole, the tribe of Merari. We normally divide the campers into the 12 Biblical Tribes of Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Benjamin, Asher, Isschar, Ephraim, Zebulun, Gad, Naphtali, and Dan. Well, we've gotten big enough where we needed more tribes...but you can't add to the Bible. So Ephraim added the Levitial tribes in...We had Aaron, Kohath, Merari, and Gershon. My tribe was a wonderful group. It was great to see them work together, learn together, and play together! Our tribe was part of the Camp of Dan. Each group of 4 tribes makes up the camps just as the Israelites camped in the Wilderness. So we have the Camp of Dan, Reuben, Ephraim, and Judah. Our camp, the Camp of Dan, came in a close 2nd for winning the Spirit of Messiah award...or the overall camp award.

I have posted quite a few pictures on my Facebook which tell the story in detail. However, you can also see those pictures without a Facebook account by using the below links...
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2117313206332.121734.1050784025&l=67753cb543
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2117394888374.121735.1050784025&l=2cd8893144
As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words.

I'll share more about camp in my next post...

A Fair Maiden

2011-07-22T18:17:00.000-07:00

A fair maiden lives in each girl's heart.
She wants her "knight in shining armor" to find her.
But what doth she do with her time?
Does she while it away as she waits?
Does she chase the guys?

A pure fair maiden waits with her eyes on her Savior.
She hides her heart in the Messiah.
She wants a man who reflects the love of the Messiah.
While she longs for a knight, she ones a pure knight
And thereby keeps herself pure.

Each of us as young women want a young man; however, we must learn contentment and love from our Messiah, Yeshua. If we cannot be content before we are married, we cannot expect to be content after we are married. Our single years are meant to be preparation years for us and our lives as married women. We need to learn to serve our families, congregation, and others. We need to learn to balance good and best as well as eliminate all evil and baggage from our lives. This is where purity in speech, dress, and mannerisms is learned.

It is also where we learn to give our expectations to YHVH. I used to think "I want a guy who is 2 years older than me, 2 inches taller than me, with brown or blond hair, with blue eyes, definitely not red hair, and a homeschooler." Now, I have thrown many of those ideas out the window! It honestly doesn't matter to me if he is younger than me or older...I want the man YHVH has for me who is pure and mature in HIM. If he is younger, so be it. If he is older, so be it. I want the man YHVH has for me no matter his description. I have learned to not put YHVH in a box.

I'm also learning surrender and trust. When I notice a young man that catches my attention, I tell the Lord "YHVH I noticed so and so. He is created in your image. You know that I noticed Him; however, I'm giving it all back to You and trusting you with the future." Then I go back to sleep and trust YHVH. Sometimes it takes multiple times of surrender. I'm a healthy girl who wants to get married after all! But I want to save my heart and love for my future husband...it belongs to NO ONE else!

So are you seeking to be a fair maiden with a pure heart hidden in YHVH? Let us encourage each other to keep on as pure fair maidens!

Off to Camp Yeshua...

2011-07-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm finished packing tonight...work tomorrow...go and see my grandparents tomorrow (my grandma is not doing well)...then fly out to Camp Yeshua on Friday morning. :) See ya'll when I get back.

Countdown to Camp Yeshua

2011-07-01T17:47:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a busy week it has been. I think I've been trying to cram a couple of extra weeks into this past week. :)

First of all, here are some Shavuot pictures to be able to enjoy by clicking here. As you'll see, we had a wonderful time and quite a nice size group - anywhere from 15 to 28 people at a given time. It was great to be with old friends and make new friends.

This week, I got a lot done - 2 house cleaning jobs, working for Paul Nison, and working on my ministry as well as helping the family. Plus getting ready for Camp Yeshua of which I leave for this coming Friday...can't wait to be with my Camp family and my B'nai Shalom family for a week!

Tomorrow, our congregation will have our monthly gathering. We'll be midrashing on the weekly Torah portion which will be nice. We've done topical studies before, so this will be a nice change.

My grandmother is not doing well. She's once again got either bronchitis or pneumonia. Her 4th time being sick in less than 3 months...so please keep her in your prayers.

Well, Shabbat shalom for now!

Modest Woman Revelations

2011-06-18T21:29:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of being interviewed by Paul Nison of Torah Life Ministries on modesty. Here is that interview...

Shavuot

2011-06-15T21:13:00.000-07:00

Wow! What an amazing weekend we just had. Shavuot for our congregation, Yaakov's Flock, was a special time. We had Paul Nison in as our guest speaker and about thirty people attended over the course of the weekend. We've been busy getting ready for Shavuot, then enjoying Shavuot, and now recovering...but I had to at least post something on the blog! :) Hopefully later this week, I'll get a few pictures up and tell some of the highlights.

Praise YHVH for His Shabbat

2011-05-21T20:07:00.000-07:00

This Shabbat has been so restful! I really enjoyed it...and feel so refreshed. The 5 Minute Update with Eddie was so good as well especially after the president's speech which basically divides the land of Israel! If you've always wanted to see Biblical prophecy happen before your very eyes, it is doing so!!!

We also got to bring Patches' kittens outside today and let them play on the porch. They are so cute! And getting to be big girls and boys. They are named Fawn (boy); Friendly (girl); Keshet which means rainbow (girl); Na'im which means kind (girl); and Mamsey meaning nursemaid (girl).

I was home this entire week as Nicole and are cleaning together two days a week every other week which allowed me to get so much more done this week! I got everything done on my to do list - miracle of miracles!

Monday and Tuesday nights I taught cake decorating class which I always enjoy. Friday I had my monthly massage therapy appointment. I'm doing so much better and really feel like my neck and upper back are finally healing from the fall on the ice 6 years ago which then began causing migraines.

The big focus these next couple of weeks will be planning and preparing for the announcement of the girl's retreat I'll be hosting...oh, wait, I think I let a sneak peak out. Also, cleaning out the barns after the winter and it finally drying out enough to do the full Spring cleaning there. Plus mow the yard as soon as it is dry enough. We've had so much rain here...that I wouldn't have been surprised to see Noah go by!!!

We've offically begun the countdown to Shavuot on which my family and our congregation will be hosting Paul Nison of Torah Life Ministries for the weekend. I can't wait!

Busy but Good week!

2011-05-13T10:40:00.000-07:00

These past couple of weeks have been incredibly busy, but very good. I'm just so glad for Shabbat each week!

To help catch you up on my May...

Monday, the 2nd, my mom and I went up to a friend's, Nicole, for some fellowship with them and company they had. We ladies enjoyed trying our hand at soap making and made some new friends.

Tuesday, the 3rd, was a normal day trying to get caught up...

Wednesday, the 4th, was my normal cleaning day with Nicole and our long day with two houses. It went very well, and she spent the night with me.

Thursday, the 5th, we went up to visit my grandparents for a while and in order for them to be able to meet Nicole. After getting home, we got busy getting quite a few things done.

Friday, the 6th, I helped Katie who loves to Grandma everyone with her open house at her greenhouse. It was a lot of fun to help her as well as earn something too!

Shabbat the 7th was our monthly Shabbat gathering. We unveiled our new website for our congregation - Yaakov's Flock - at www.yaakovsflock.org. Everyone really like it which made me quite happy.

Then that evening, we went to a Paul Wilbur concert. Over half of our congregation went. We were able to squeeze all of us in Daria's vehicle which just held the eight of us! It was so fun to go with a group. We laughed and talked the whole way there with a Paul Wilbur CD playing in the background to get us in the mood. The concert was very good although I must admit I really liked the first one I went to last year better. I was able to go up and talk with Paul again and get my latest CD signed. He and Eddie know each other and always send each other greetings when I go! :)

Sunday, the 8th, was a normal day at home plus Momma and I ran the paper route together.

This week (the 9-13) proved to be a very busy week at home. I was only gone for cake class Monday and Tuesday nights...and then a shorter day cleaning on Wednesday. I finally feel like I'm catching up on my to do list. Working on pieces for my new ministry, Standing in YHVH's Hand Ministries; 501c3 paperwork; working for Paul Nison; helping Eddie Chumney; helping with the family bakery; milking the cow; cleaning; and making tzitzits are just some of the things you will find on my to do list.

Thursday night was the conference call for Beyond Organic which is a brand new launched organization to be able to get meat that is organic and Biblically Kosher and many other healthy products. Interested in knowing more? Please visit my website at www.mybeyondorganics.com.

Well, back to work... And, Yah willing, I'll be doing better at blogging now. :)

Food that is Organic and Kosher!

2011-04-27T10:48:00.000-07:00

Paul Nison just introduced me to an AMAZING program that features food that is not only raised and produced organically but KOSHER as well!!!! I can't believe it and am so excited. Go ahead and sign up now for FREE to get in the now. Use this link - www.beyondorganicinsider.com/becomeaninsider.aspx?enroller=664

My Favorite Raw Life Health Food Store!

2011-03-28T12:24:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite Raw and Health Food Store...

March SIYH Newsletter is UP!

2011-03-27T19:05:00.000-07:00

The March Newsletter for my ministry - Standing in YHVH's Hand Ministries is up! Find it at http://www.standinginyhvhshand.org/newsletter_march11.htm.

February Newsletter

2011-03-05T19:28:00.000-08:00

Since I have started my own ministry recently, I'll be tying both the personal side and ministry side together on the blog...so look for posts that have to do with a mixture of both. I hope you enjoy hearing what the Lord is doing in my life in multiple ways. To start us of, here is a link to my first newsletter which was sent out in February - http://www.standinginyhvhshand.org/newsletter_february11.htm

Too Long Since I've Posted

2011-03-04T20:02:00.001-08:00

Well, it has been way too long since I've posted... There has been much going on lately which I plan to update all on, but for the time being you can go to www.standinginyhvhshand.org to see the ministry which I have recently started. I've known this is where YHVH has been calling me, and the recent layoffs of which I was included at my previous job was the launching pad, YHVH used to call me into this next step for Him!

Happy 66th Anniversary, Nana and Gaga!

2011-01-29T18:18:00.000-08:00

This past Thursday was my grandparents 66th anniversary. Wow! 66 years. I hope that my future husband and I can say the same thing...that we enjoyed a long and healthy marriage. Not that my grandparents haven't been without their spats, but they have stuck it out together. We took them out to lunch at Cracker Barrel for their anniversary which we all enjoyed. Then that evening I ran some errands and taught cake decorating class.

Walking by Faith

2011-01-25T16:05:00.000-08:00

Means hanging onto the Father! And that's where I am safe...so even when life's storms come down, I know that He has a plan, and I WILL trust Him fully. Walking by Faith!

This week has been busy busy with meetings...non-stop going and being productive for the kingdom. Serving those in need makes my heart full of overflowing joy...and I know that is why He has me here. So I'm walking by faith right where He has me. :)

Ever Wonder What the Father is Up to?

2011-01-22T19:23:00.000-08:00

This has been one of "those weeks" for me! I really wonder how far the Father wants to stretch me. The doctor took my grandmother off a crucial stomach medication for her causing her quite a bit of stomach issues to the point that she could not eat. Thankfully, she is now back on it. Now, on top of it, she has a UTI, but she's on antibiotics for it...and it was caught early. That only with a few other things has put the stress level at our house up this week...I guess the Father wants to teach me to learn to fully rely on Him, follow His Torah completely, and trust Him for the results. That's easier said than done at times...

Nana

2011-01-18T15:12:00.000-08:00

Please pray for Lee Houchins (Jocelin’s grandmother) as the doctor took her off a stomach anti-acid medication. A week after that, her hiatal hernia and stomach began hurting to the point that she is barely eating. While this may seem like something that can be taken care of with medication, this a big deal for Lee as she had a ruptured ulcer of the stomach back in 2003. If left unchecked, it will cause irreversible damage that could be crippling or killing. So please pray that we are able to get her back on the needed medication right away. There is a meeting with the doctor today.

Update: Thankfully, the doctor put her back on the medication today. It will take about 48 hours for it fully kick in. Please pray for her full healing!

ResTORAHtion Cooking - A Messianic Hebrew Roots Cookbook

2011-01-13T13:41:00.000-08:00

ResTORAHtion Ministries is pleased to present ResTORAHtion Cooking which is a compilation cookbook featuring recipes from Messianic Hebrew Roots families all across the world.

We are very excited about this project and ask you to join us by submitting YOUR favorite recipes! We need recipes for the traditional categories as well as the special categories of Days of Unleavened Bread (recipes containing no leaven for use during the Days of Unleavened Bread), Feast Days Food (recipes that you use during the Feast Days), and Easy Shabbat Meals (meals with little prep or "fix ahead" meals).

We are even working on a special Torah Teacher's Favorites Section, so you won't want to miss being part of this special project for the entire Hebrew Roots Community! When submitting your recipe, please include a story about why this recipe is particularly special or unique, a favorite memory of fixing it, or how you received the recipe. Each of us loves understanding what makes a recipe more than a recipe but a piece of each person sharing it.

Recipes only need to be Biblically clean according to Leviticus 11 not necessarily "kosher."

Recipe Submittal Deadline: June 1, 2011

http://www.restorahtionministries.org/restorahtioncooking.htm

Trying to Stay Warm

2011-01-13T13:38:00.000-08:00

I'm truly ready for Spring! It has been in the 20s straight here in Ohio with 6" of snow on the ground. It's beautiful and makes everything look clean, but I'm truly ready for Spring. :)

This week has been a good week. Got a lot done at work, now I'm heading off to teach a Cake Decorating Class tonight. I think I'm going to splurge and get a Starbucks tonight. Just don't tell my friend Paul who eats raw!

I've also been working on our family's cookbook project. We're compiling a Messianic cookbook of which I'll post about separately. That's going to be very exciting! We've gotten all the main Torah Teachers to agree to be part of it too! The recipes as they come in are looking delicious. :)

Exciting News

2011-01-11T14:12:00.000-08:00

Well, I've got 3 exciting events coming up!

Our family has been hosting a monthly Shabbat Gathering. For our February gathering, Eddie Chumney will be joining us. He'll be doing his 5 Minute Update live from here as well as a new teaching "Let Us Go Up To Zion" and a Q&A Session.

Then we are hosting Passover in April. Eddie will also be joining us for that! :)

And finally, we are hosting Shavuot in June (10-12) and will have Paul Nison as our speaker.

I can't wait for each of those...but I'm going to savor each one too. :)

A Great Shabbat

2011-01-08T21:10:00.000-08:00

Today, we had our monthly gathering of Messianic/Hebrew Roots believers at our home. It was a wonderful time. We began gathering around 11am, had lunch at 12:30pm, then midrashed on the topic of "Spying out the Land." After the midrash, we broke up into smaller groups and talked. We younger folks enjoyed a good game of Phase 10, and of course David won! ;) It was a refreshing time of fellowship of believers.

Then tonight, I got some more work in on my book in progress as well as caught up on some e-mails and other work. A great start to a new week.

One of my Favorite Bibles

2011-01-06T16:54:00.000-08:00

As we get begin a new gregorian year, many of us still seek to read through the Bible in a year. How about reading one that restores the true name of the Messiah and YHVH? Check out the Restoration Scriptures we carry at http://webstore.watchmanofzion.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=26

Headcovering

2010-12-27T16:51:00.000-08:00

Great video on the Headcovering...from Torah Life Ministries

Surreal...

2010-12-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

Yes, that's where I'm at. I'm at a place where I guess in the world's eyes, you should be in "turmoil" or "worried", but I'm fully at rest in the Father's Hands. Have you ever felt that way? If so, will you share?

More Israel Trip Pictures

2010-12-16T15:23:00.000-08:00

Here are the last two days of the Israel Trip.

Day 11
h ttp://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=92380&id=1050784025&l=7c07dc4795

and Day 12.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=92383&id=1050784025&l=7f53a192e7

I pray you have enjoyed them, and I have an extra special surprise to share on Shabbat...so be on the lookout for that then!

Israel Trip Pictures - Days 9 and 10

2010-12-14T18:58:00.000-08:00

More Israel Trip Pictures are Up!

Day 9
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=91782&id=1050784025&l=7f359d9c94

Day 10
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=92167&id=1050784025&l=0bf060c603

Days 7 and 8 of Israel Trip

2010-12-09T14:53:00.000-08:00

More pictures posted -

Day 7
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=91397&id=1050784025&l=25a31c260b

Day 8
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=91538&id=1050784025&l=8ac6a2a8c1

More Israel Trip Pictures

2010-12-07T17:24:00.000-08:00

More Israel Pics...

Day 5
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=90938&id=1050784025&l=67aedd61d8

and Day 6
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=91074&id=1050784025&l=7e14236c57

Planning for Shabbat

2010-12-02T13:12:00.000-08:00

I'm having a great week...busy...but great! :)

I've finished sorting my Israel Trip pictures and have been diligently uploading them every few days. It takes time to upload and caption them, so I'm spacing it out. I've also got all the videos downloaded to my computer...now to create a web page where I can share the best ones.

Then today, I saw on the headlines that there is an out of control wildfire near Haifa, Israel on the Carmel Mountains. I was there!!!! Less than 1 month ago (November 9th to be exact), we went to Haifa, went up on Mt. Carmel, and then drove through those mountains to reach Tel Meggido. It is so sad to watch the news reports, yet so real after having been there. Pray for rain for Israel! They have not received any rain for the month of November...due to working on dividing the Land (that's the spiritual reason why)...but they so need it.

My boss got me this really neat CD today called Maccabeats. I've been enjoying it this evening while syncing my iPad which was the last thing I needed to do to have my electronics back fully working after my recent computer reformatting due to a bad wifi card. Thankfully that was covered under a recall otherwise that would have been about $300 to repair it. Praise Yah for His provisions!

And now, we're beginning preparation for Shabbat. We're hosting a gathering for any Messianics in Ohio at our home this Shabbat, so I'm looking forward to seeing many of our friends... We'll have a Midrash on Spying out the Land as well as I'll get to share about my trip to Israel.

More Israel Trip Pictures

2010-11-30T12:57:00.000-08:00

I have continued to post more Israel Trip Pictures. Days 3 and 4 are now up, so here are the links. I still have Days 5-12 to go! :) So enjoy...

Day 3
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=89978&id=1050784025&l=9171da317d

Day 4 - Also one of the two best days on the whole trip...
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=90360&id=1050784025&l=0f7241ea6c

Home from Israel...

2010-11-21T17:26:00.000-08:00

Well, I am home now. My trip to Israel was absolutely AMAZING! There are no words to describe it other than to say you have to go to fully understand it. It's is the Father's Land. You can sense His presence there in such an amazing way. I took over 2,400 pictures, and they don't do the land justice. I have begun posting the pictures on my Facebook and rather than try to copy them all over here, I believe I can share the public links to my Facebook albums...and then you can see them. Enjoy! That's only the beginning.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=88062&id=1050784025&l=00b7f7eaf6
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=89544&id=1050784025&l=198359e89a

Also, you can hear me tell about the trip as I shared at our congregation this past Shabbat. The recording is available here - Jocelin's Israel Report 11-20-10.

Timothy and Maria's Wedding

2010-11-04T13:58:00.000-07:00

Just 4 Weeks ago, I spent the day with a dear friend who was getting married as her bridal assistant. It was a lot of fun and wonderful to see two dear friends of mine who love each other get married. Congratulations Timothy and Maria!

Here I am with Maria...
Alicia and I already knew each other long distance, but it was great to finally meet and spend time together as we both helped Maria.

Maria looking stunning and contemplative all in one shot.

The beautiful bride...

The sweet couple...

Their first kiss after saying their vows...

Cutting the cake...

Feeding each other...

Myself and Sara Freeland serving the cake...

It was a beautiful day enjoyed by all. Please do keep Timothy and Maria in your prayers as Timothy has just been diagnosed with mono, and Maria is undergoing further testing as she is showing signs of a possible auto-immune disorder.

Preparation

2010-11-02T17:55:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm working away on getting ready for Israel. Since I will be almost totally out of pocket for two weeks, I'm making sure my team is prepared before I go and all set. I'm also working to wrap up a couple of projects before I go, and they are coming along quite well.

I leave in just 5 days for Israel and can't wait! My suitcase is almost totally packed too.

A veery good friend of mine has been diagnosed with mono, and his wife, also a dear friend, is experiencing similar symptoms...yet she doesn't have mono. So they are doing further testing to see if it is another auto immune disorder. Please pray for Timothy and Maria's healing and peace during this time. They were just married 4 weeks ago. I hope to share wedding pictures before I leave as well.

Well, off to get a good nights rest...

10 Days till Israel

2010-10-28T10:04:00.000-07:00

Well, it's 10 days until I fly to Israel. I bought the pre-paid minutes I needed for in the States as I didn't want to take my more expensive cell phone with internet access with my on an international trip. I've also got international calling set up on our house phone for my parents to be able to reach me...and me an Israeli cell phone to rent while there. I think everything is just about ready to go other than notes for those covering for me while I'm gone from work. :) And a few things to go in the suitcase.

I'm having a busy but good day at work. Getting a lot done always makes you feel good!

Then tonight is the last night of my Course 1 Cake Decorating class. I have next month off due to the trip, but I'll be offering another one in December.

And good news on my computer. I've been having issues with my Wi-Fi not working part of the time. Turns out it is a major known issue on my particular laptop and is caused by the Nvidia video card not working properly. PTL there is a recall where HP will fix my laptop for free by replacing the Wi-Fi and Video cards which are built into the Motherboard, so that also get's replaced. I'm very glad for the Lord's provision there as that would be a $300 repair otherwise. My laptop will go in the shop while I'm gone and should be home waiting for me when I get back.

Well, it's off for a late lunch I go...

Countdown to Israel

2010-10-26T17:07:00.000-07:00

Well, I've started to countdown to leaving for Israel. 12 days till I head to the Promised Land. I'm so excited. I've been working on my packing just to make sure I don't miss anything or am rushing around at the last minute. As a result, I'm all packed except for the items that can't go in till the last minute. Okay, I must be a huge planner!!!

I'm still fighting a cold but feeling much better. Just to get 100% of my energy back, and I'll be a happy camper. At least I figured out why my eye sight was blurring while working on the computer and solved that. It was due to too high of a prescription in my left eye. When I used what I was using in my right eye in both eyes, it went away in about 48 hours and hasn't come back. Praise Yah!

This week...guest blog...and more

2010-10-23T18:52:00.000-07:00

This week was a busy week, and I got a lot done. My to do list was quite long, and I have gotten 95% of everything done on it. So I was quite the happy camper. The rest will get done in time.

I had been interviewed for the Sowers of Hope SEED Series which is about women who wear headcoverings. That was published on the 15th, and you can read that interview by clicking here.

I've begun packing what I can so I don't have it all to do for my trip to Israel as it is now just 15 days away. I truly can't wait. I'll really miss my family, but this is a trip of a lifetime...and I'll probably only get this chance to go.

And I got the news this week that the Camp Yeshua DVDs which have the recordings from all the messages on it as well as PICTURES is in the mail!!! I can't wait to get mine. :)

Wonder???

2010-10-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I had wondered why coaches would get so frustrated with a coaching participant not showing up...I had the privilege of finding that out this week. It saddens your heart as a coach...you so want each one to succeed!!!

This week has been quite busy at work. Lots of projects going on. Plus my boss is on a mission trip to Russia, so my co-worker and I are covering for him. I'm just glad to hear that his trip is going well. When he gets back, it will be two weeks until I leave for Israel! I can't wait.

I did slip in some time for a massage from my massage therapist and an adjustment. I feel so much taller and "looser." I'm also being faithful to do my exercises which I do believe is helping my body heal even more than I had ever done so after my fall on the ice 6 years ago.

Well, that's all folks! :) Pictures from the recent wedding I went to coming soon.

Sukkot, Part 4

2010-10-16T19:49:00.000-07:00

Our Sukkot was an extra special time...and here are the last of the pictures!

Daddy did a supper job teaching. Here he is leading our closing service Friday night as we went into our last High Holy Day.

We were glad that Daniel and Deena were able to join us both Shabbats. They are a sweet couple.

Friday morning, we had a special breakfast brunch. Normally, we did breakfast on your own, but this morning, we cooked big together - eggs, turkey bacon, pancakes, hash browns, maple twists, cinnamon apples, and fruit. That was yummy!

And yes, we had the guys arguing over chocolate!

The kittens were a big hit with the children. Here's Ashley with Speckles.

Teresa gave a presentation on how to have an evacuation or "Go" bag if you had to leave your home due to emergency evacuation. We all learned a lot!

Tom and Teresa's dog, Levi, was our Sukkot dog!

Here we are studying and midrashing...

We even got some black-eye pea shelling in.

And finally our Sukkah! We weren't able to build one as we don't have but a few "baby" trees on our property, but we had our dining canopy top up and added a few branches to make it our camp Sukkah.

Sukkot was a very special time for us, and I hope you enjoyed the pictures!

Sukkot, Part 3

2010-10-12T18:08:00.000-07:00

Finally sitting still long enough to post more about Sukkot. After we had a couple of days to clean up, try to catch up at work and home, clean up, and sleep in a bit, it was time to run again as Timothy and Maria (both of whom are good friends of mine) were getting married!!! Then home again, some doctor appointments for my grandparents, and now, I've caught a mild cold! I guess it's from allowing myself to get run down. But I'm drinking my organic vinegar with the mother in it, honey, and water to help get rid of it along with colloidal silver. So I'm hoping to be back to normal soon. :) Now to Sukkot...

On Sunday afternoon, we took an herbal first aid class. Here's Dawn teaching us.

And we were good students who even took notes!

On Monday afternoon, Doug, our neighbor, came over and taught us Cast Iron Cooking. Here he is showing off the beef cubes we had prepared for that while Daria finishes chopping up our vegetables and Momma and Daddy look on.

Here's our meal - beef stew - cooking over the campfire. The cornbread was already done. :)

Time for a test taste. And????

It passed with flying colors! More on Sukkot coming soon...

Sukkot, Part 2

2010-10-04T16:12:00.000-07:00

We were all busy setting up before we were able to sit down for our Erev Shabbat meal. Here's Uncle Mark and Aunt Debbie setting up their tent.

Helping set up Daria's tent...

Our tent...

Hey, even the doggie, Levi, got into the act!

And our fourth and final tent...

Sukkot, Part 1

2010-09-29T17:27:00.000-07:00

We started our Sukkot on Friday, September 24 with a Thanksgiving style meal consisting of turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, squash casserole, apple banana salad, and pumpkin pie with homemade whipped cream. It was delicious, and we had the table specially set with our Shabbat tablecloth and a special centerpiece.

Daddy opening our Shabbat with Momma looking on...

Here I am lighting the candles...

All of us enjoying the meal together.

Daddy pouring coffee...

Loving Sukkot

2010-09-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

Well, we have been sukkoting since Friday, and I'm loving it. Daria was the first on here on Friday. Then Tom and Teresa were next. And finally Uncle Mark and Aunt Debbie. We all got our tents set up, and then enjoyed our delicious thanksgiving style meal. We did the Shabbat blessings over the bread and wine which set apart our time together. I got some great a video clips which I'll post next week along with pictures of course, but I'm almost exclusively using my iPad this week for the quick access on it.

On Shabbat, Daniel and Denna joined us for the day. They brought tomato soup to share which went great with the sandwich fixings we had. Then we all enjoyed Aunt Debbie's teriaki chicken and rice, Teresa's broccoli salad, Daria's peaches, and my cupcakes for dinner. That morning Uncle Mark had lead the Torah portion midrash. Then that afternoon, we informally midrashed. Afteer supper, we were joined by George, a friend of George's - Phil, and Phil's daughter, Nicole. Nicole is just two years younger than me, so it was nice to have someone around my age! We also had a y Kung man, Joseph, who had found us via FeastGoer.org join us. George shared on the importance of restoring the Father's name. After being up till midnight, we all called it a a night.

Speakaing of being late, it's late now, so I'll finish telling more tomorrow...

Hungry yet?

2010-09-24T12:24:00.000-07:00

Sukkot is almost here. Daria got here around noon, and she along with my mom and I have been busy working on supper for tonight as we are opening with a Thanksgiving type meal - turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, squash casserole, sweet potato casserole, challah, apple banana salad, and pumpkin pie. Yummy! I can't wait.

It was nice to find some notes from fellow Crown staff who were missing me at the Crown Reunion. I would normally be there, but with Sukkot, I'm not there.

Sukkot is Almost Here!

2010-09-21T20:53:00.000-07:00

Sukkot is almost here, and I can't wait! The Fall Feasts are always exciting...better thanChristmas ever was!

I'm trying out a blog post from my iPad this time around. We'll see how it turns out, and if I like doing it from here. If it does, it allows me more flexibility and hopefully I'll get back to blogging on here on a regular schedule. :)

Today, I got a therapeutic massage, and it felt wonderful. Ever since my fall on the ice, almost seven years ago, I've had ongoing neck and should issues. The chiropractor helped greatly, but it had gotten to the point where it just didn't seem to be lasting as well. I have a friend who's going to school to be a massage therapist and he explained that for the full benefit, you actually need both massage therapy and chiropractic care. Today felt heavenly, and I truly think my friend, Timothy's, advice was correct as she said my neck felt like cement even though I had just been adjusted on Friday. I feel looser than I've felt in a along time. Hopefully this will greatly help.

Well, it's off to bed I go...

Sukkot is almost here...

2010-09-18T20:38:00.000-07:00

This week has been busy with work and preparations towards Sukkot at our house. I can't wait for that special time of rejoicing before our Father. You can read more about Sukkot at http://www.hebroots.org/sukkot.htm.

Plus I have started blogging for One Money Design on Finances from a Biblical perspective of which I greatly enjoy. I'm also working to get back on a regular schedule since we've moved Nana and Gaga to skilled nursing care...so I at least had to post a short update here. More coming soon...

Am I Really Another Year Old?

2010-09-10T18:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's hard to believe that I'm another year old. I celebrated my birthday on August 22 with a family and a few close friends. It was a very special time. That morning, we ate breakfast with Nana and Gaga. It was a very good meal too. Then we returned home and grilled out a late lunch with friends. Spending the afternoon relaxing, talking, and playing games was just up my alley!

DFW Trip - Part 3

2010-08-28T19:45:00.000-07:00

As promised, here's the final piece about my trip to DFW - the Money Map Coaches' Meeting which was a real treat! I was able to be with just under 100 fellow coaches! I also had the privaledge of leading the Coaching Panel. Here's my panel praying before hand with Tim Ballog (Area Director for Fort Worth and a good friend). My panel was Julia Sizemore, Jim Johnson, and Reid.

Introducing my panel...

Here we are answering questions. We even had some fun with "What do you do with distractions during a coaching session such as a cell phone?" by having Julia answer her cell phone during that question. And, yes, we set her up. Tim, the Area Director, called her on that question!

Here I am with Doyle and Charlsey Greenlee who are in my department.

It was great to meet Bill Caldwell, one of our Online Coaches.

And Joan Neshem, also an Online Coach, and her husband Stan as well as a friend Dave.

After the meeting, we ate lunch at Hard Eight BBQ which is not only famous in the DFW area but DELICIOUS! I had BBQ Beef and loved it.

Brad Jack coordinated the meeting and treated us to lunch. It was great to get to spend some time with him once again.

The time in DFW was wonderful. :) Now, I'll have to tell about the Georgia Trip and my Birthday...then we'll be caught up on the highlights.

DFW Trip - Part 2

2010-08-26T18:52:00.000-07:00

My trip to DFW was truly the trip of a lifetime. I made so many WONDERFUL memories there...I'll definitely be going back at some point. But I'm home to stay for a while...enough traveling for this travel bug...until my Israel trip in November. :)

Julia had the neatest aquarium...

On Friday, we went down to the Fort Worth Stockyards for lunch and some shopping. I was able to get a few souvenirs to take home and some great pictures. The old timey train was really neat.

There were real cowboys there too! This one stopped and smiled when he realized I was taking pictures.

Here's Lindsey, Kristen, and I by the train.

We had lunch at Riscky's BBQ. I had a BBQ Beef Sandwich with fries. Charlie got jalapeno poppers (deep fried with a cheese filling) and Julia and I both got into them! Yes, this is from the girl who does NOT eat hot stuff!

On our way to the airport, we drove by and stopped at the Mustangs of Las Colinas which was really neat. Due to the location of the fountains, it looks like they were running through the water and actually kicking it up.

One last picture with my "extended family"...I truly feel like Charlie and Julia are family now!

It was a super special trip to Texas. And yes, I got a lot of work done...I just told all about the fun on here! I'll do one more post about the Money Map Coach Meeting that was held while I was in DFW.

DFW Trip - Part 1

2010-08-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

Just 10 Days after returning home from Oklahoma, I flew out to Dallas Fort Forth for a few days for Crown related travel. I had the privilege of staying with Charlie and Julia Sizemore, friends of mine and Crown volunteers. They truly treated me like a princess. By the end, they were adopted family!

Here's my room and welcome basket...

Julia and I stopped at the Gaylord Hotel which was huge! It's a large tourist attraction in the DFW area.

I met with Professor Presslor who has the largest Stewardship Museum (even larger than the Library of Congress's collection on stewardship). Here we are in the museum.

The middle bank (round looking can) was the oldest bank in the museum dating from the 1500s.

Here is Larry Burkett's Giving Bank and an old version from the 1800s.

While I was in DFW, I had the privilege of being interview by Chuck Bentley on MoneyLife and sharing about Money Map Coaching. That program can be heard at http://www.crown.org/media/relatedcontent/080310.aspx.

I was also interviewed by Michael Moore on 1220 Hot Pepper for the DFW area on his radio program, Pastor's Corner.

Here I am with Michael after the interview.

And there's even more to come. One more post about my trip to DFW and more pictures coming soon!

B'nai Shalom

2010-08-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

Well, the last stop on my trip to Oklahoma was B'nai Shalom Congregation led by Monte Judah. We had been part of B'nai on the internet for about 3 years at this point, so I was very excited to finally get to be there in person. After having supper with Monte and Lin, Ann, Misty (another counselor who was with us), and I headed to B'nai.

I popped my head into the control room to see what that looked like at the beginning as I was so used to being on the receiving end. Here is Seth Greene running the computers for the broadcast. Ephraim Judah, Scott Porter, and Amy Porter are also watching from the control room. There were approximately 7 computers running everything in the control room.

Lorne Greene is running the PalTalk room from this computer. JocelinOhio said hello to everyone from B'nai.

Here is Monte Harris leading the B'nai Shalom Praise Team.

Due to the number of people there from camp, the dancing was done outside between the two Lion and Lamb buildings.

It was really neat to hear Monte teaching in person. It was just like online but much closer. :)

And Dr. Scotty led prayer time just like always.

Here I am with Monte and Lin. They are both so sweet. I enjoyed getting to know them better.

Here I am with Lorne and Jane Greene as well as Monte and Cindy Harris.

And couldn't miss getting a picture with Dr. Scotty and Alice Faye who are absolute sweethearts.

And my original Wall Watchman - Mark and Donna Smith. Mark and Donna were the ones who taught me the ropes of PalTalk and being an admin. I instantly recognized them. It was great to finally meet in person.

It was a wonderful time at B'nai. And being that I'm on PalTalk everyone knew who I was which was really neat. We headed back to Ann's around 11pm...three very tired ladies. The next morning, Ann took me to the airport, I got through security, and had a few minutes to relax before boarding the plane home to my waiting Momma and Daddy. It was a smooth flight from Oklahoma City to Memphis where I had about an hour layover. Then the last leg from Memphis to Columbus. It was so good to get home. Momma and Daddy were waiting just past security and even had a "Welcome Home. We Missed You." Balloon which was so sweet!

Camp Yeshua - Part 3

2010-08-15T15:54:00.000-07:00

Well, here's the last post about Camp Yeshua...although there will be one more about my trip to Oklahoma...still have to talk about the B'nai Services. I still can't believe what an amazing week it was.

I have to say I had the best dorm room! I had 8 girls in my room, and they were really sweet.
Left to Right: Bailey, Megan, Me, Delany, Caitesby, Christine, Nicole, Richeal, and Faith (in front).

Ephraim Judah was our camp director and great to work with. Here I am with him; his wife, Lauren, and their baby Isabelle.

Christine and I got to really know each other. She reminds me of myself when I was younger. Colorado is a long ways from Ohio, but hopefully, we'll at least see each other next year at camp.

Another one of the junior staffers, Chelsea, and I got along great. Here we are together on our last day of camp.

We had a special Mikvah service at camp. A Mikvah is a cleansing and dedication before Yahweh. This was a special time for me as I had never done a Mikvah before although I had been baptized in the Christian church shortly after being saved. Each one of us had a leader witnessing for us. Ephraim, Brent Avery, and Mason Clover were the three Mikvah leaders. It was special for me to have Ephraim witness mine as his dad, Monte Judah, had been my first Torah teacher.

Our last dinner at camp was our "Semi-Formal Dinner." That night we all dressed up in our nice clothes, and the guys served the girls. I called it "Camp Yeshua Makeover"! I couldn't believe how we transformed. Everyone really enjoyed the night. The food was delicious, and it was so much fun to watch the guys. Some really knew how to serve the ladies...and some, well... It was interesting to see how many of us ladies ended up with just lettuce in our salads (no tomatoes or croutons....just lettuce!), but the guys were good to go back and get toppings for us. My waitor was Daniel Clayton, and I got a really nice plate with my silverware and salad (some ladies had to wait for the guys to remember their silverware!). Thanks Mike and Kathy for raising Daniel to know how to have a servant's heart and how to serve the ladies right. :)

We were pleasantly surprised when Josh Matthews topped the night off with a toast to all the ladies. And we returned with a huge thank you to the guys.

The service that night was amazing. The Ruach HaKodesh fell on the entire camp, and you could feel His presence. Then we topped the night off with one last night of Starlight Dancing. Ann Judah explained the significance behind Dance With Me which was the song we closed our Starlight Dancing with each night. It is about the Messiah inviting us to Dance with Him! She and Ephraim demonstrated how that would look...

Our final morning, we had morning worship and devos. Then Rico closed us with the Aaronic blessing. This picture turned out amazing with Rico, Ephraim, and Little Rico.

I went home with Ann Judah from camp. We stopped by a Sonic and got fruit slushes...awwww...so yummy on a hot day like it was. We had a few hours to relax at her house, get showers, and then we went out to eat with Monte and Lin before Erev Shabbat Services at B'nai which I'll tell about in my next and last post about Oklahoma.

Camp Yeshua - Part 2

2010-08-13T14:12:00.000-07:00

Time for more from Camp Yeshua! I still can't believe what an amazing week it was. My tribe was a great group of teens and co-leaders. Each of the students brought something unique to the table, and it was neat to have Daniel Clayton (Mike Clayton's son) in my tribe as we had already met by phone a few times and felt like we knew each other in some ways.

Here's my tribe - Reuven...

Laura, one of the Junior Staff, and I got to be good friends. Here we are on Bible Character Night. I was a modern Jewish girl. She was Rebekah.

We had flex time two of our days there, and I decided to try out the archery range. That was fun! I also practiced on the rifle range.

Each day, our tribe completed various games and activities. Here is our tribe completing the platform crossing on the low elements confidence course.

What I call the "Rico Sandwich" - Here I am with Little Rico and his dad "Big Rico" Cortes.

Camp was an absolutely life change experience...one more post coming about it. Then you'll have to hear about the trip to Dallas Fort Worth...plus Friends and Fellowship...and butchering chickens! :)

Camp Yeshua - Part 1

2010-08-03T13:55:00.000-07:00

Well, it's time to catch up. I've had a busy three weeks...but a wonderful time...and certainly saw Yah was busy!

I'll start with Camp Yeshua. This year's theme was Con10uum - how we are part of the Continuum of Yah's plan. We had about 160 campers. When you add in the senior and junior staff, we had a total of 230.

I flew to Oklahoma City, OK on July 10. It was a beautiful flight...

My hostess was Ann Judah. She and I are very close in age and definitely enjoyed getting to better know each other.

Camp started Sunday evening with opening session. The Senior Counselors (of which I was one) had to be there at noon for a staff meeting, so Ann and I went out early for that as well as to get set in our dorms.

I was part of the tribe of Reuven and one of the co-leaders. Each time we gathered before meals, we had "role call." This time, we spelled out Con10uum our theme.

More to come...

Camp Yeshua

2010-07-09T11:02:00.000-07:00

I really can't believe that I'm flying out tomorrow for Camp Yeshua! I can't wait to get there. Oh, Lord, I pray right now that you would truly bless the camp and every single camper there with your presence and a growth to be more like you!

Due to being gone, I won't have internet access, so I will be back to blogging on the 19th or 20th of this month...and I'm sure I'll be loaded with pictures and stories to tell! :)

S'mores!

2010-07-06T15:42:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time this weekend with having my grandparents out here for the day on Sunday. We cooked out Kosher Beef Hot Dogs and had Potato Salad and Cabbage to go with it. For dessert, we had s'mores. We were out of homemade kosher marshmallows, so we used some of our homemade marshmallow creme which made them even gooier. Here's a picture of Nana really getting into and enjoying her s'mores! :)

Well, I finally...

2010-07-03T20:31:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally hit my first animal when driving. We were running the paper route tonight when all of a sudden I saw a Momma Raccoon and her 3 babies, plus a 4th one that had been hit. She saw my headlights at the same time I saw her and we both had no time to react, so I ended up hitting on of the babies. :(

And I've officially started the countdown to Camp Yeshua! In exactly one week, I will have landed in Oklahoma City and been there for about 1 hour. :)

I Have the World's Best Daddy!

2010-06-29T13:20:00.000-07:00

My daddy took me out to Dinner on Sunday at Applebee's, so we could have special Daddy Daughter Time. We call it our "date time." We left right after 11am and were gone until about 1:30pm. That was a wonderful time of just talking and laughing together. We got the special which was 1 appetizer and 2 entrees. For our appetizer, we got Honey BBQ Wings which were the best wings I've ever had. Then we both got the steak with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. It was a good meal, but the company made the food pale in comparison. My daddy has so much love for me.

You know someday I want to marry, but as a good friend put, "Jocelin, there aren't many men out there like your dad, so I don't know if you will find one like him." Well, Yahweh, I'm holding out for the "younger version of my Daddy!"

Nana's 86th Birthday

2010-06-26T20:57:00.000-07:00

Thursday was my grandmother's 86th birthday. We had a wonderful time celebrating with her - spent time with her and took her out to eat at Cracker Barrel's. Here's a picture of my dad presenting her with roses for her special day.

Swinging...

2010-06-22T12:02:00.000-07:00

What a way to dig in...today at work, I was working on numbers...and in a declining economy...and most things being on the downturn, my department's numbers were compiled for April and May, and we saw a respective upturn of 53% and 26%. That just about had me swinging from the chandeliers!

Then tomorrow, Mommy and I are going to slip off for some Mother Daughter time which is much needed! Yeah!!!!!!!!

Shavua Tov!

2010-06-19T19:45:00.000-07:00

Shavua Tov (shah-VOO-ah TOHV)
Hebrew.

Literally, good week.

This greeting is used after Havdalah (the ceremony marking the conclusion of Shabbat), to wish someone a good forthcoming week.

Techie Stuff Week

2010-06-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

This week has been full of "Techie Stuff." We're implimenting a new computer system at work, and this week has been full of computer related meetings. I've really enjoyed them and am excited about the new changes.

On top of all that, I've also finished up a website. Please check out the Abilene Torah Group's website at www.abilenetorahgroup.com.

Yesterday, we had a Neurologist visit for Gaga. He confirmed that his official diagnosis is "Mulit InFarct Dementia" which means that his memory loss is caused by mini-strokes and has a very slow progression compared to Alzheimer's. This is why he's still considered "functioning" after a 12 year long diagnosis. It helps to understand a bit more what causes this memory loss and why certain pieces (such as all sense of time and self control) are gone...yet others (such as math skills) are still here. Please continue to pray as we deal with this day in and day out.

Gotta Listen to This...

2010-06-15T12:55:00.000-07:00

Have you ever done something really dumb with money, and then wondered, "How in the world did that happen?" Too often, we make emotional decisions about money. All of us have done it, so today Chuck talks about some of the dumb things people do with money and gives us biblical insights so we can avoid repeating them in the future.

http://www.crown.org/media/relatedcontent/061510.aspx

Walking by Faith - What it Means to Me

2010-06-13T09:34:00.000-07:00

Walking by Faith by Jocelin Boutet

Walking by Faith is not easy
the Father didn't promise a life of leisure
only that He would always be with me.

Walking by Faith can be a test
people can be a pain
but my Father's faithfulness knows no end.

Walking by Faith can mean a dark journey at times
with the wind and rain buffetting me
but the Father's cloak keeps me dry and His candle lights my path.

Walking by faith can mean being alone
with the world against me
but with the Father on my side, I'll win, and I'm never alone!

Walking by faith is worth it!
"He'll never leave me nor forsake me!"

Closing the Execution Gap

2010-06-11T11:57:00.000-07:00

I just completed a training module at work called Closing the Execution Gap by Franklin Covey which was great! I realize why what I'm doing is working, and some areas that need improvement. This was a great way to end my week...and now to look forward to Shabbat...sweet Shabbat.

If you want to see more about the training I just finished and would recommend for anyone, visit this link - http://www.franklincovey.com/tc/solutions/leadership-solutions/modular-series-closing-the-execution-gap

Finish Strong

2010-06-09T13:37:00.001-07:00

An Excerpt from
Finish Strong
by Dan Green

It was a perfect day for surfing off the coast of Maui. A 13 year old surfing protege had just finished riding a twenty foot wave and was lying face down on her surf board. Preparing to paddle out to catch another wave, her thoughts of becoming a professional surfer shifted in an instant. Without warning, she felt a tug on her left arm and in a split second she realized that she'd been attacked by a shark.

As she struggled to gain her composure she realized something even more horrifying ? the fourteen foot tiger shark had bitten clean through her board, taking her left arm in a single bite. At that moment in time, survival and not surfing became a priority.

Bethany Hamilton learned to surf at the age of 4. When she was 8, she entered her first contest and won both of the events that she competed in. At the age of 10 she placed 1st in the "11-under girls," 1st in the "15-under girls," and 2nd in the "12-under boys" division at the Volcom Puffer Fish contest. She was determined to become a professional surfer and was certainly on track to make it happen. Then, in one violently swift moment on that fall day in 2003, it seemed her dreams would be shattered.

However, Bethany was born with the heart of a lion and the competitive spirit of a thoroughbred. She was determined to return to the water to surf. Leaning on support from her friends, family and her faith in God, Bethany recovered rapidly and within ten weeks from the attack was surfing again. Convinced she could overcome her physical challenge, she worked hard to learn to surf around her disability. But she also had to overcome the psychological fear of another attack. Bethany would face her fears by singing and praying when she was out on the water.

Incredible as it seems, less than a year from her attack, Bethany returned to competition taking first place at the National Surfing Championships and first place at the first event for the Hawaii National Scholastic Surfing Association. She was recognized by ESPN in 2004 and received an ESPY award for Best Comeback Athlete of the year.

Bethany's ability to overcome her physical and mental challenges puts her in an elite class of achievers. She chose to...Finish Strong.

Will I Finish Strong for the King of Kings - YHVH Himself?

My Special Time of the Week

2010-06-05T18:55:00.000-07:00

As I said last night on my Facebook, "I am so glad it's Shabbat...aw, sweet Shabbat...my special time with the Creator of the Universe, YHVH Himself!" Shabbat is always a special time first and foremost with YHVH and then with my family and with my internet Paltalk Family. Eddie gave a good 5 minute update as always (www.watchmanofzion.com) and then did a new teaching called The Ways of God: Dreams & Visions which was very good. Then this afternoon, we did studying together as a family as well as read the latest Yavoh. We even got 2 walks in between storms. It was a great day!

Enjoy the Moment

2010-06-03T13:02:00.000-07:00

Alzheimer's is a cruel disease...It robs us of our loved ones. It is the hardest thing to watch. It is like having them die yet still live. They are no longer mentally alive and able to understand, yet their body lives on. It's the cruelest disease I know, and it has "stolen" my grandfather. Yet, I must remember in the pain to Praise Yah and know He allows things to happen for a reason. In the meantime, I must "enjoy the moment." Those special moments when I'm the treasured princess of a granddaughter. Those moments when he wants to protect me. Those moments when we walk hand in hand as I once did as a very little girl... Enjoy the moment!

Reformating

2010-06-01T15:44:00.000-07:00

Sunday, we enjoyed lunch with my grandparents at Cracker Barrel. Then we visited with them during the afternoon.

Yesterday, I spent the day reformatting my entire computer. Since I work on the computer full time as well as design websites, I have to do that about once a year. It definitely makes the computer run much better. I've got everything back up and running once again which is great. I got an external hard drive from work which made backing things up much easier and able to verify that I had everything a lot quicker. We also watched a video as a family about the Sabbath and Shavuot...which was very interesting.

Then today, I've been working quite heartily and catching up on things since being out for a long weekend. It's amazing what one extra day to the weekend does! :) So now, I'm logging off to go enjoy some Momma time and hopefully a walk when it cools off.

Busy Week...

2010-05-30T06:14:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been a busy week...between family, work, congregation, and life in general! :)

We celebrated Shavuot last week which was wonderful...to Praise Yah for His provision and give thanks to him. Eddie gave a new teaching on the Menha (sp?) offering which I'm going to have to hear again before it sinks in. Sometimes with all these teachings and having your "boat" rocked frequently, you have to hear again or "do again."

Nana and Gaga are doing okay, but we can definately see they are not near as well as they were a year ago let alone 6 months ago. It's looking like we are going to be making a move to skilled care here soon (probably about August time frame). It is so hard to watch them decline like that, but I have to remember to "treasure the moment."

Work is going quite well, and I enjoy it...so that is a good combination. Right now, we are working on a major database update...getting current contact information for all the Coaches. I'm excited about what that means to us.

On Monday, I enjoyed lunch with Mark (a friend via work). It was great to catch up with him. We tried a restaurant known for it's bison burgers, and they were good! They are very lean and flavorsome. I wouldn't mind eating there again.

Friday was a busy day too...between cleaning house as a family, having a garage sale, and working...but we got a lot done, and the barn is getting more and more cleaned out. We plan to have it fully cleaned out soon and ready in plenty of time for Sukkot as we're hosting it at our home this year.

Well, off to get busy on this first day!

Who's Mr. Fico?

2010-05-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

What’s in your FICO® score

FICO Scores are calculated from a lot of different credit data in your credit report. This data can be grouped into five categories as outlined below. The percentages in the chart reflect how important each of the categories is in determining your FICO score.

These percentages are based on the importance of the five categories for the general population. For particular groups - for example, people who have not been using credit long - the importance of these categories may be somewhat different.

To read the complete article, click here.

Emergency Fund

2010-05-25T15:45:00.000-07:00

One of the best ways to break out of the debt cycle is to have an emergency savings fund to cover unexpected expenses. This way, when your car breaks down or the refrigerator quits working, you won’t need to rely on credit cards or bank loans to cover the expense. Crown recommends saving $1000 in your emergency fund as a first step in the Crown Money Map Destination One.

However, if you are already living paycheck to paycheck, how can you find any extra money to fund this emergency savings account?

How about this article on "Ideas for Funding an Emergency Account"?