Like thousands of others out there - I'm an avid Idol watcher. I watched "Idol Gives Back" tonight. It was a great production to say the least. I was super amazed with the ending - Mariah Carey did a GREAT job - sung a wonderful song and then "Shout to the Lord" by the Idols was also AWESOME! Wow - ending the show by turning our thoughts to Jesus Christ - the only One who can truely save any of us. Props to the idols and producers. Glory to God!
I will add a link to video as soon as I can.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Inspiration - Valorie Burton
I signed up for weekly e-newsletters from Rich Minds, Rich Rewards a few months ago. I look forward to receiving them each week so I thought I'd share the one from this week and encourage you to sign up for the newsletters as well.
"What have you been putting off? Almost all of us do it from time to time. I'm convinced that procrastination is one of the biggest causes of stress. You have something you know needs to be done. Often, it's not even something difficult. But you've made it difficult in your mind, and as a result, you never get started. Instead, you do everything else you can think of - wash dishes, organize your files, surf the internet, check email - rather than the thing you actually need to do. Perhaps you're even procrastinating right now. It drains your energy and wastes precious time.
This week, I challenge you to focus your energy and just do what needs to be done. There are two antidotes to procrastination:
1. Drop the goal or project, and don't do it.
2. Exercise some discipline, and just go ahead and do it.
Sometimes procrastination is a sign that you don't want or need to do the thing you're dreading, in which case Option 1 is a good choice (this does not apply to filing taxes, paying bills, picking kids up from school, etc.). At other times, procrastination is a sign of perfectionism, stubbornness or lack of self-discipline, all of which you have the power to change. If this is the category you relate to, Option 2 is your best choice. Don't make the task or project a big deal. Break it into smaller pieces and just get started.
So what is it that you need to do? Don't wait for inspiration, just start. You don't have to "feel" like doing something to do it. Often, in the process of starting, your mood develops. And even if it doesn't, the feeling you have after completing something you didn't want to do is well worth it.
My challenge to you this week:
Stop procrastinating. Get it done!
www.valorieburton.com
"What have you been putting off? Almost all of us do it from time to time. I'm convinced that procrastination is one of the biggest causes of stress. You have something you know needs to be done. Often, it's not even something difficult. But you've made it difficult in your mind, and as a result, you never get started. Instead, you do everything else you can think of - wash dishes, organize your files, surf the internet, check email - rather than the thing you actually need to do. Perhaps you're even procrastinating right now. It drains your energy and wastes precious time.
This week, I challenge you to focus your energy and just do what needs to be done. There are two antidotes to procrastination:
1. Drop the goal or project, and don't do it.
2. Exercise some discipline, and just go ahead and do it.
Sometimes procrastination is a sign that you don't want or need to do the thing you're dreading, in which case Option 1 is a good choice (this does not apply to filing taxes, paying bills, picking kids up from school, etc.). At other times, procrastination is a sign of perfectionism, stubbornness or lack of self-discipline, all of which you have the power to change. If this is the category you relate to, Option 2 is your best choice. Don't make the task or project a big deal. Break it into smaller pieces and just get started.
So what is it that you need to do? Don't wait for inspiration, just start. You don't have to "feel" like doing something to do it. Often, in the process of starting, your mood develops. And even if it doesn't, the feeling you have after completing something you didn't want to do is well worth it.
My challenge to you this week:
Stop procrastinating. Get it done!
www.valorieburton.com
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Recommendation - Garage Sale
If you have kids - you know that they constantly need new clothes to accomodate their growth.
So- if you're in the Tulsa area - you might want to check out this sale on March 29th:
http://tulsamoms.org/images/Documents/GSFlyer.pdf
It's hosted by Mothers of Multiples...but anyone can go check it out as a consumer.
They usually have a spring and a fall sale....over 100 contributers!
So- if you're in the Tulsa area - you might want to check out this sale on March 29th:
http://tulsamoms.org/images/Documents/GSFlyer.pdf
It's hosted by Mothers of Multiples...but anyone can go check it out as a consumer.
They usually have a spring and a fall sale....over 100 contributers!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Random - Spring
It's Spring! Finally! I'm so excited about longer days and warmer weather. My kids can actually play outside. I can throw on shorts, a t-shirt and flip flops. YAY!
Here are a few other things about Spring:
Parks - I love taking the kids to the parks around town. They get exercise and sun but best of all it's FREE fun. =)
Landscaping - It's time to do something with my landscaping. I tore out some old bushes so now I am researching what to plant. I may just spread out some mulch and buy a park bench and call it good. No upkeep! haha I don't have a green thumb. I'll post again if I decide to be more creative than that.
Garage Sales - I like going to garage sales though I'm a very picky consumer. It's really just going for the chance they will have kids play clothes the correct size for a way marked down price....the possible chance that I'll find a unique piece of furniture or other random item I might not have been able to live with out. haha
Spring Break - I actually took a couple days off. It was really nice. I actually didn't even sign on a computer for 3 days! WOW. It actually rained the days I had off so we didn't get to go to the lake or the zoo as we had planned. The kids still enjoyed getting to visit the grandparents, sleeping in and fighting with each other! lol
Here are a few other things about Spring:
Parks - I love taking the kids to the parks around town. They get exercise and sun but best of all it's FREE fun. =)
Landscaping - It's time to do something with my landscaping. I tore out some old bushes so now I am researching what to plant. I may just spread out some mulch and buy a park bench and call it good. No upkeep! haha I don't have a green thumb. I'll post again if I decide to be more creative than that.
Garage Sales - I like going to garage sales though I'm a very picky consumer. It's really just going for the chance they will have kids play clothes the correct size for a way marked down price....the possible chance that I'll find a unique piece of furniture or other random item I might not have been able to live with out. haha
Spring Break - I actually took a couple days off. It was really nice. I actually didn't even sign on a computer for 3 days! WOW. It actually rained the days I had off so we didn't get to go to the lake or the zoo as we had planned. The kids still enjoyed getting to visit the grandparents, sleeping in and fighting with each other! lol
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Random - Easter Shopping
When I was a child, one of my favorite times of the year was Easter...primarily because I got new clothes and a basket full of candy.
I remember one year though that the shopping wasn't any fun. I was 11 years old...the age where I wanted to look a little more "grown up" and my grandma had offered to buy my sister and I outfits this year. I was a skinny girl and my parents strictly regulated that I wore sleeves which meant sun dresses were out. We had a difficult time finding anything and finally settled on an outfit that I hated! It was a crisp white shirt with a pilgrim styled collar edged with tiny yellow flowers and a long yellow skirt...it was full and gathered at the waist. I never wore it again after that Easter Sunday.
Now - as a parent I want to make sure my investments are going to "pay off"....even if it means my 7 yr old daughter picks out something I wouldn't have preferred....if she loves it - she will wear it again!
This year we ended up at Old Navy and left with the whole ensemble: a cute fushia dress, sandals and a matching purse....all for less than $35...we're both happy!
I remember one year though that the shopping wasn't any fun. I was 11 years old...the age where I wanted to look a little more "grown up" and my grandma had offered to buy my sister and I outfits this year. I was a skinny girl and my parents strictly regulated that I wore sleeves which meant sun dresses were out. We had a difficult time finding anything and finally settled on an outfit that I hated! It was a crisp white shirt with a pilgrim styled collar edged with tiny yellow flowers and a long yellow skirt...it was full and gathered at the waist. I never wore it again after that Easter Sunday.
Now - as a parent I want to make sure my investments are going to "pay off"....even if it means my 7 yr old daughter picks out something I wouldn't have preferred....if she loves it - she will wear it again!
This year we ended up at Old Navy and left with the whole ensemble: a cute fushia dress, sandals and a matching purse....all for less than $35...we're both happy!
Monday, March 3, 2008
Random - Lost Hobbies
I don't know about you but I had some hobbies that I've not enjoyed in quite a while...blame it on kids, marriage, the internet....whatever I just haven't made time for them. I think hobbies help create a "well rounded" person so I'm trying this year to make time for them and see if they still interest me or not.
1. Reading - I have actually still done this....with my Bible reading & a book or two in the "inspirational" type of book...not books purely for entertainment. So I'm currently reading a novel "I Heard That Song Before" by Mary Higgins Clark. She writes good mysteries...not too gross for the faint at heart most of the time.
2. Sewing - I haven't settled on a project yet. I'm thinking maybe I'll make an Easter outfit for my daughter but she really likes to shop and Easter comes early this year SO maybe not! Maybe I'll start with a smaller project to get myself back in the sewing game.
There are others - that I will post some other time. Do you have hobbies that you have neglected? What is your excuse? Do you think you would like to restart those hobbies?
1. Reading - I have actually still done this....with my Bible reading & a book or two in the "inspirational" type of book...not books purely for entertainment. So I'm currently reading a novel "I Heard That Song Before" by Mary Higgins Clark. She writes good mysteries...not too gross for the faint at heart most of the time.
2. Sewing - I haven't settled on a project yet. I'm thinking maybe I'll make an Easter outfit for my daughter but she really likes to shop and Easter comes early this year SO maybe not! Maybe I'll start with a smaller project to get myself back in the sewing game.
There are others - that I will post some other time. Do you have hobbies that you have neglected? What is your excuse? Do you think you would like to restart those hobbies?
Random - Too Busy
Woah - I just realized it's been over 2 weeks since I posted anything. Just when I thought I was going to stay caught up with the "every day" stuff...I got busy again. You know how it is - planning parties, getting sick, kids school stuff, on and on.
Life should slow back down for me a little bit...hopefully I haven't spoken too soon.
Life should slow back down for me a little bit...hopefully I haven't spoken too soon.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Recommendation - Coupons
I am not the best about clipping coupons - but I really do try to. I enjoy comparing prices and saving a few cents here and there.
I have found that there are a few places that you can find great coupons if you know about them.
1. SuperTarget has coupons you can print online. Just go to http://www.target.com/ and scroll to the bottom of the page. There is a link for "store specials and coupons"...everything from ground beef to cereal.
2. Walgreens has coupon books that they print each month. If you are prepared to mail in for rebates you can even get a few products for "free"!
3. http://www.coupons.com/ is a neat website with coupons on a variety of grocery products that you can print and use at your favorite store.
Do you use coupons? Do you have any other favorite places to get coupons or find bargains?
I have found that there are a few places that you can find great coupons if you know about them.
1. SuperTarget has coupons you can print online. Just go to http://www.target.com/ and scroll to the bottom of the page. There is a link for "store specials and coupons"...everything from ground beef to cereal.
2. Walgreens has coupon books that they print each month. If you are prepared to mail in for rebates you can even get a few products for "free"!
3. http://www.coupons.com/ is a neat website with coupons on a variety of grocery products that you can print and use at your favorite store.
Do you use coupons? Do you have any other favorite places to get coupons or find bargains?
Recommendation - Mothers' Day Out
If you have toddlers or preschoolers - you understand the need for a break now and then. I am so thankful for my Fridays...this is the day of the week my 3 year old attends Victory's Mothers Day Out program and I get a well -deserved break.
There are lots of advantages for him:
1. social interaction
2. introduction to a "school like" schedule
3. positive peer pressure to learn new things
4. nap time
5. play time
6. pride of bringing home crafts that he made and can show off
There are several MDO programs around Tulsa - I'm sure they are all great.
The things I like about Victory's program are:
1. I can choose any day of the week and only 1 day (some of a minimum 2 day per week program)
2. the teachers have been super!
3. great facilities
4. location
5. Christian teaching
6. price
http://www.victorytulsa.org/church/ministries/kidscare/
There are lots of advantages for him:
1. social interaction
2. introduction to a "school like" schedule
3. positive peer pressure to learn new things
4. nap time
5. play time
6. pride of bringing home crafts that he made and can show off
There are several MDO programs around Tulsa - I'm sure they are all great.
The things I like about Victory's program are:
1. I can choose any day of the week and only 1 day (some of a minimum 2 day per week program)
2. the teachers have been super!
3. great facilities
4. location
5. Christian teaching
6. price
http://www.victorytulsa.org/church/ministries/kidscare/
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Recommendation - Other Blogs
Here are a couple of other blogs to check out...
The first is totally dedicated to Branson. If you have any interest in Branson or famous people who should be there - you'll enjoy this blog for sure.
http://www.whynotinbranson.blogspot.com/
The second - the writer is also quite passionate about Branson but has lots of interesting posts about sewing projects, photography and much more.
http://aglanceatmyworld.blogspot.com/
The first is totally dedicated to Branson. If you have any interest in Branson or famous people who should be there - you'll enjoy this blog for sure.
http://www.whynotinbranson.blogspot.com/
The second - the writer is also quite passionate about Branson but has lots of interesting posts about sewing projects, photography and much more.
http://aglanceatmyworld.blogspot.com/
Random - Trash or Treasure?
Just about every other week I get a phone call asking me if I have any old clothes, toys, shoes, or small appliances that I can donate....and most times I try to come up with something. I cleaned out my closet at the beginning of the year so I actually had a couple of bags ready to go. Well - I got another call today; this time from "Prevent Blindness". The man on the other end of the phone line (I could tell was an older gentleman) was probably volunteering so I couldn't help but say "yes, I'll find something to set out for the truck to pick up". I am glad that I can contribute to these non-profit organizations and I would suggest that everyone who can - does - as often as possible.
As I hung up the phone I thought - how much do I really have that is disposable? What can I so easily give up that someone else will appreciate? Of course - in the beginning I was focused on material things...and even that made me realize how blessed I am. But then as I sat here a little longer, my thought process turned into something I didn't expect. How often do we treat relationships as disposable? As if we can manage just as easily without friendships that we've invested much time into. There are people out there that just need a friend. I don't think you can have too many. Think twice before you set your relationships on the front porch for someone else...you may regret it later.
As I hung up the phone I thought - how much do I really have that is disposable? What can I so easily give up that someone else will appreciate? Of course - in the beginning I was focused on material things...and even that made me realize how blessed I am. But then as I sat here a little longer, my thought process turned into something I didn't expect. How often do we treat relationships as disposable? As if we can manage just as easily without friendships that we've invested much time into. There are people out there that just need a friend. I don't think you can have too many. Think twice before you set your relationships on the front porch for someone else...you may regret it later.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Inspiration - Margins
"Margins" - An idea that I know I need to apply to my life. It would be safe to say that I'm a multi-tasker. The past couple of years I almost thrived on the idea I that I could accomplish more things in less time...or at the same time. So with 2008 - I'm starting fresh, slowing down, and trying to create "margins" in my life. Me - the person who even tried to shrink the tangible margins of a brochure or flyer - to fit the most possible information on the page. This is a challenge but one that I feel like will pay off if I can accomplish it.
I caught Joyce Meyers on TV a little over a week ago and her guest was talking about time margins. If you don't have a few minutes between your scheduled out day then it causes stress when everything doesn't play out perfectly....and as we all know...usually there is an extra long red light when you're in a hurry.
Then on Sunday, Pastor Craig was ministering and mentioned the value of having financial margins. I thought "Wow that word again"
How can we truely be cheerful givers if we don't have margins...if all we take in is spent before we even get it?? How can we walk in love as Christians if every minute we have is scheduled...we can't be patient...we won't have time to listen and care for others the way Christ has called us to.
What other places in our lives should we have margins? I will be thinking on these things...until next time...
my recommendation for today is: create some margins in your life.
I caught Joyce Meyers on TV a little over a week ago and her guest was talking about time margins. If you don't have a few minutes between your scheduled out day then it causes stress when everything doesn't play out perfectly....and as we all know...usually there is an extra long red light when you're in a hurry.
Then on Sunday, Pastor Craig was ministering and mentioned the value of having financial margins. I thought "Wow that word again"
How can we truely be cheerful givers if we don't have margins...if all we take in is spent before we even get it?? How can we walk in love as Christians if every minute we have is scheduled...we can't be patient...we won't have time to listen and care for others the way Christ has called us to.
What other places in our lives should we have margins? I will be thinking on these things...until next time...
my recommendation for today is: create some margins in your life.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Recommendation - Sports for Preschoolers
Ok- My first child is a girl...she got to do ballet for a year, jazz, music and now she is in cheer. Second, I had a boy...it was quite a challenge to find things for him to get involved in as young as 3 years old but he really wanted to because he saw his sister getting to do some very neat things. Finally I found the BIXBY YMCA!! They have seasonal sports for girls and boys starting at age 3!! It's totally recreational - so they don't keep score. It's a great place for him to interact with other kids. He is 3 1/2 and playing basketball...his number is "32". He absolutely loves it. I believe it was $80 for the whole season and that included a jersey. I would highly recommend you check it out. http://www.dailyymca.org/ Now, let's put our hands up and sing together "Y M C A"!!
Thursday, January 24, 2008
My Two Cents
The reason I've started this blog is because I think my opinion is worth something...even if it's just two cents!
I'll write about places around Tulsa that I'd recommend, post ideas about a variety of subjects or maybe just post random thoughts. Blogging is a new thing for me so it's an adventure...
I'll write about places around Tulsa that I'd recommend, post ideas about a variety of subjects or maybe just post random thoughts. Blogging is a new thing for me so it's an adventure...
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