tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6051481755427860982024-03-13T17:47:25.170-05:00adding to the beautythe invitation of graceAllisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.comBlogger119125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-61739877831149489932016-09-24T20:10:00.004-05:002020-10-15T12:11:00.432-05:00Fall A-Z Art Challenge 2016<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>In the other gardens</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>and all up the vale, </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>from the autumn bonfires</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>See the smoke trail!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>Pleasant summer over</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>and all the summer flowers,</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>the red fire blazes,</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>the gray smoke towers.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>Sing a song of seasons!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>Something bright in all</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>flowers in the summer,</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>fires in the fall!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>“Autumn Fires” | </i>Robert Lewis Stevenson</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-51967224874313839562016-07-13T09:34:00.008-05:002020-10-15T14:13:44.842-05:00Zoodle Italian Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfPteIuAjWA/V4ZSZjydMAI/AAAAAAAABGY/HMV-8vqxfAwDFYjNm9bg-cRp1ziaNGvfQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3702.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="781" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfPteIuAjWA/V4ZSZjydMAI/AAAAAAAABGY/HMV-8vqxfAwDFYjNm9bg-cRp1ziaNGvfQCLcB/w586-h781/IMG_3702.jpg" width="586" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfPteIuAjWA/V4ZSZjydMAI/AAAAAAAABGY/HMV-8vqxfAwDFYjNm9bg-cRp1ziaNGvfQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3702.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfPteIuAjWA/V4ZSZjydMAI/AAAAAAAABGY/HMV-8vqxfAwDFYjNm9bg-cRp1ziaNGvfQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3702.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfPteIuAjWA/V4ZSZjydMAI/AAAAAAAABGY/HMV-8vqxfAwDFYjNm9bg-cRp1ziaNGvfQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3702.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><a name='more'></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span><span style="font-size: large;">This salad is a little prep-heavy, but it is very simple and makes a huge batch--perfect for potlucks or dividing up for a week's worth of lunches. It tastes better after sitting for a day or two as the veggies have time to marinate in all that Italian dressing goodness.</span><br />
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Enjoy</span></span><span style="font-size: large;">!<br />
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<b><span>Zoodle Italian Salad</span><span> </span></b><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span>4 medium zucchini + 4 medium yellow squash (try to get the straightest ones you can)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span>1 large English cucumber, peeled, seeded, small diced</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span>1 small purple onion, small diced</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span>1 medium bell pepper (green or red), small diced</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span>1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span>1/2 jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained, chopped</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span>1 batch Paleo Italian Dressing (recipe below)</span></span></li>
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<span><span>Set up your veggie spiralizer with several layers of paper towel, or a folded tea towel, to catch all of the zoodles.</span></span></span><br />
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Slice the tough ends off the zucchini/squash and start spiralizing, making an even layer of zoodles on the towels as you go. Once you have a nice layer (from about 3-4 zucchini), sprinkle evenly with approximately 1/2 tsp salt.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YS_7jJT83Yk/V4ZLMbPbCHI/AAAAAAAABFs/PeAQZaDy8LYgF5-JaHLl1D33kl4V84l6ACEw/s1600/IMG_3693.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YS_7jJT83Yk/V4ZLMbPbCHI/AAAAAAAABFs/PeAQZaDy8LYgF5-JaHLl1D33kl4V84l6ACEw/s320/IMG_3693.JPG" width="320" /> </a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YHZk83nTApA/V4ZLMDfU2LI/AAAAAAAABGA/MNfnFFLMffkl_12m4wxZDlCsOPc21k2LACEw/s1600/IMG_3691.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YHZk83nTApA/V4ZLMDfU2LI/AAAAAAAABGA/MNfnFFLMffkl_12m4wxZDlCsOPc21k2LACEw/s320/IMG_3691.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span>The salt will help draw out moisture from the zucchini. This is an important step that will prevent your salad from becoming too wet and soggy. After salting, place another layer of towels on top and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this whole process with remaining zucchini/squash.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FBU86TmoJOM/V4ZLMQ1SrAI/AAAAAAAABGA/ugt8BJhr_P4bXbzPBLqyG0vpfC7A_lfewCEw/s1600/IMG_3692.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FBU86TmoJOM/V4ZLMQ1SrAI/AAAAAAAABGA/ugt8BJhr_P4bXbzPBLqyG0vpfC7A_lfewCEw/w640-h480/IMG_3692.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>While your zoodles are sitting in the towels, prep the rest of your veggies and your salad dressing. Place these in a large mixing or serving bowl.</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span><span>Now, back to your zoodles. After several minutes, you'll start to see moisture soaking through the top layer of towels. In order to get the most water out of the zoodles, roll them up and gently squeeze. </span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6stFWo6EBFU/V4ZLM84lKSI/AAAAAAAABGA/5Tzc2Qhbsq8HTxGhA9_lKErZnEYkvs3GwCEw/s1600/IMG_3696.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6stFWo6EBFU/V4ZLM84lKSI/AAAAAAAABGA/5Tzc2Qhbsq8HTxGhA9_lKErZnEYkvs3GwCEw/s320/IMG_3696.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZM8fqbZ4kXc/V4ZLMxqtEYI/AAAAAAAABGA/H4IyK5zx59YjDePSnXRWR60Exn7B9mrBQCEw/s1600/IMG_3699.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZM8fqbZ4kXc/V4ZLMxqtEYI/AAAAAAAABGA/H4IyK5zx59YjDePSnXRWR60Exn7B9mrBQCEw/s320/IMG_3699.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div> </span><span>Unroll your zoodles and dump them into your large bowl with the other veggies and dressing. Mix well, cover, and chill for at least 6 hours. This salad will keep for up to 5 days in the fridge.</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tNwBD_z7qK0/V4ZOfSOPYGI/AAAAAAAABGM/3bVxq2W6EG4pkrpVRltgAbQYlj8nNx-0gCLcB/s1600/IMG_3702.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tNwBD_z7qK0/V4ZOfSOPYGI/AAAAAAAABGM/3bVxq2W6EG4pkrpVRltgAbQYlj8nNx-0gCLcB/w480-h640/IMG_3702.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span><span><span><b>Paleo Italian Dressing*</b></span></span></span><br /><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-size: large;"><span>1 1/2 tsp garlic powder</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-size: large;"><span>1 TBS onion powder</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-size: large;"><span>2 tsp dried oregano</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-size: large;"><span>1 TBS dried parsley</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-size: large;"><span>2 tsp sea salt</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-size: large;"><span>1 tsp pepper</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-size: large;"><span>1/4 tsp dried thyme </span> </span></span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span><span><span><span>Mix all spices in small jar. Store in cool dry place for up to 2 months. Use for making dressing, sprinkle over potatoes with a little oil and roast them, or as a seasoning for pot roast or grilled chicken.</span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span><span><span>To make 1 batch of dressing: combine 2 TBS dry mix with 1/4 cup white wine vinegar, 1/2 cup olive or avocado oil, and 2 tsp water. Mix well. </span></span></span> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
*Italian Dressing recipe adapted from<a href="http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/more-healthy-salad-dressing-recipes-italian-and-thousand-island" target="_blank"> Heavenly Homemakers</a></div>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-78860227469545655152015-11-14T16:57:00.001-06:002018-12-25T14:15:51.473-06:00Thanksgiving Art Challenge 2015<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.</i></div>
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~Psalm 106:1</div>
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Seasonal and thematic art challenges are one of my favorite tools to keep myself picking up pen or brush daily to practice. This is my third Thanksgiving challenge. (<a href="http://www.addingtothebeauty.net/2013/11/14-days-of-thanksgiving-art-challenge.html" target="_blank">Link to 2014 & 2013 challenges</a>)<br />
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Since I am currently taking a class on sketching on location and still life, I have implemented these techniques into this year's challenge.<br />
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I will primarily work with watercolor, ink, and colored pencil but this challenge can be applied to any medium.<br />
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Have fun!<br />
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Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-21021187264643584002015-11-13T14:06:00.002-06:002018-12-25T14:16:08.598-06:00How to Grow in Your Knowledge of God (Start With Worship Part 3)<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> <i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.</span></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">~2 Peter 3:18</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We have established that worship requires focus, a choice, and knowledge of the object of our praise.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">While we can have a <i>knowledge</i> <i>of </i>God independent of belief, we cannot <i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">know</span></i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> God apart from a relationship with His Son, Jesus, (John 14:6). Through a relationship with the Son, we come to know the Father. We <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">begin to understand His character, recognize His actions, and believe His promises. Jesus, the Author of our faith, by the power of His Spirit in us, gives us eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart to love our great God. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To know God through <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">J</span>esus is to en<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ter the Paradise our first parents lost<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">; and like Adam and Eve before they fell, we have good work to do in the Garden. <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We have the great <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">privilege</span> of cultivating beauty <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">and fruitfulness through a living, active relationship with God. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>This is a life of worship. And He has not left us without tools for the job.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">How He Helps Us Know Him </span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1. Jesus~</span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Anyone who has seen me has <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">seen the Father<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> (</span></span></i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">John 14:9). </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">have the image of the invi<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">si<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ble <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">God in Jesus. He is the Word made flesh who lived, walked, loved, and talked among us. Not only do we have eye witness accounts of <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">H</span>is life in the four <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">gospels, we have the <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">whole of scripture describing, echoing, proph<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">esying His reality. <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">From cover to cover, the Bible is all about Jesus<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">- He is </span>the radi<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ance of the glory of God (Heb 1:3).</span></span> Read it<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> and you will know Him.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">2. </span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Holy Spirit~<i> </i></span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">...these are the things God has revealed to us by <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></span></i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(1 Corinthians 2:1<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">0).</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We were once children o<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">f dark<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ness, but in Christ, we have <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">been <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">reborn<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">. By the power of the Holy Spirit we are born into God's <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">k</span>ingdom of light.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">And though we cannot see Him, <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">He </span></span>has not le<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ft us as <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">orphans.<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The same Spirit who gave us new life, now live<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">s </span></span>within us (1John 4:13)</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">. The <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Spirit guides, <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">helps, comforts, rebukes, teaches, and reveals the character of God in and through us<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> (Galatians 5:22-25). <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You want to know God? <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Listen to and follow His Spirit; He is closer than your very breath.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">3. <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Faith</span>~ </span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Now without faith it is impossible to pl<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ease God, for th<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">e one who draws near to Him<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> must believe that He <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">exists and rewards those who seek Him<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(Hebrews 11:6).</span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">God <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">is the author of our faith</span>. <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our very ability to trust and believe Him is a gift of His Spirit<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> in us. He <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">gives</span> us the ability to believe, to trust, and we must practice using this gift in order that it does not lay dormant and ineffective in us. His word is full of promises for which we can trust and belie<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ve Him. God is faithful and He cannot lie; therefore, if He promises something we can expect He will ful<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">fill that promise<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> according to His perfect will. He is trustworthy<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> ~ believe Him<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> to know Hi<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">m.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">4. </span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Memory~ </span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>He has made his wonders to be remembered; the LORD <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">is gra<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">cious and compassionate</span></span></i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> (Psalm 111:4).</span></span></span></span></span></span><b> </b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Humans possess </span>short and selective memories which often fall prey to <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">present doubts and overwhelming circumstances. God has given us memory to use for our good and His glory.<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Give yourself <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">regular </span>history lesson<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">s</span>. Re<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">mind you<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">rself constantly of God's <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">care</span> in the past...to you and to <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">others. <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Write
it down for yourself and your children. <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rehearsing His faithfulness of yesterday</span> will strengthen
your faith and sharpen your vision to see Him actively caring for <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">His children in <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">the t<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">rials of today.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We worship what we treasure. Do you want to treasure God? Get to know Him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The better we know Him, the more we will treasure Him. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The more we treasure Him, the more we will worship Him.</span><br />
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Other posts in this series:<br />
<a href="http://www.addingtothebeauty.net/2015/11/why-start-with-worship.html" target="_blank">Part 1</a><br />
<a href="http://www.addingtothebeauty.net/2015/11/to-know-him-is-to-love-him-start-with.html" target="_blank">Part 2</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-90426296350589751272015-11-06T16:43:00.001-06:002018-12-25T14:16:40.137-06:00Start With Worship Part 1<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We do this by fixing our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">and perfects our faith.</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">~Hebrews 12:2a</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Worship Requires Focus</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Worship is ascribing worth o<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">r</span> great value to someone or something. When we worship God, we are acknowledging His great worth. We are turning our eyes away from the chaos and ugliness of sin and focusing on the life-giving beauty of God.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Worship Requires Knowledge</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">How can we know the worth of something unless we understand those characteristics and qualities which make it so valuable? To truly worship God, we must KNOW God.</span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>KNOW: </b>First, we must <a href="http://www.cru.org/how-to-know-god/would-you-like-to-know-god-personally.html" target="_blank">receive the gift</a> of <b>knowing Him</b> through the saving blood of His son.</span></span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>GROW:</b> We daily <b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">expand our </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">knowledge of <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Him</span></span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> by <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/" target="_blank">reading His Book</a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">; learning how <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">He has acted in the past, recognizing His activity in the present, and gras<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ping His promises for the future.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
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<li><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">SOW:</span></span></b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Finally, we <b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">increase our intimate knowledge</span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> of Him in the same way we would cul</span>tivate any deep relationship; ongoing<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">, meaningful conversation. Plant seeds of <a href="http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/10-prayer-tips-how-to-talk-to-god/" target="_blank">prayer</a>. <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Start conversations with Him and expect Him to answer. He promises that we will reap what we sow. (Galatians 6:7)</span></span></span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Worship<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Requires a Choice</span></span></b></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our fickle nature requires that we make a conscious choice, d<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ai</span>ly, to turn our eyes away from sin and self and fix them on the One who is worthy of all our devotion. To start each day with worship is to <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">orient your thoughts, plans,</span></span></span><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></b>expectations, and desires with Him who initiates and perfects your f<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">aith. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Worship Requires Constancy</b></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Once begun in an attitude of awe<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> and submission to God, carry</span> that attitude of worship with you throughout the day. Look for opportunities to <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">know</span> God in the routine actions of daily life. Notice His qualities displayed in His constant care and provision for His children. Memorize His unmista<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ka<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ble signature on all he has made in nature. Recognize His likeness in others and in yourself. Acknowledge that<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>, </b></span><b>in Him, </b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">all things live and move and have their being. (Acts 17:28)</span><b> </b></span></span><b> </b></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span> </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Other <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">posts in this Series:</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<a href="http://www.addingtothebeauty.net/2015/11/to-know-him-is-to-love-him-start-with.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Part 2: To Know H<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">im is To Love Him</span></span> </span> </span></span></span></span></a><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></i></div>
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Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-43237850785691855292015-11-05T13:17:00.000-06:002018-12-25T14:22:47.101-06:00To Know Him Is to Love Him (Start With Worship Part 2)<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span class="text Ps-5-3" id="en-NIV-13977">Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span class="text Ps-5-3" id="en-NIV-13977">and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-3">~John 17:3 </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Worship begins with knowing. Know that God is who He is. Nothing will ever alter who He is. He does not change according to how you feel nor according to the measure of your devotion. He does not change with the weather or the times. He is steadfast, constant, eternally the same.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">To know God is to know His character. He is holy, sovereign, just. He is Love. He is Peace. Everything that we are not, He embodies in perfect, everlasting completeness. The knowing is where the spirit of worship is kindled within us. We see such stark contrast between our natural selves and His perfection we can only sit in awe and wonder that this God would condescend to show us compassion, much less <a href="http://www.cru.org/how-to-know-god/would-you-like-to-know-god-personally.html" target="_blank">hang on a tree to give us life.</a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Knowing focus our vision and gives us perspective. The world says, "Truth is relative. Follow your heart. Know yourself and you will gain contentment."</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jesus says, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Follow me. Know me, and be known by me and I will satisfy your longing soul."</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>More in this series:</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.addingtothebeauty.net/2015/11/why-start-with-worship.html" target="_blank">Part 1: Start With Worship</a></span></span> <br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.addingtothebeauty.net/2015/11/how-to-grow-in-your-knowledge-of-god.html" target="_blank">Part 3: How to Grow in Your Knowledge of God</a></span><br />
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<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-14263873189033357632014-06-04T14:59:00.004-05:002018-12-25T14:23:36.197-06:00Animals A-Z Art ChallengeMade if half-way through this challenge in May, then put on hold to work on a special project. Almost done with the special and will pick this back up again soon! <br />
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For your Creative Pleasure:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pSjOK0Z771o/U495QlvhpkI/AAAAAAAAA68/l15tgpzHQJ0/s1600/AtoZ+Animal+Art+Challenge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pSjOK0Z771o/U495QlvhpkI/AAAAAAAAA68/l15tgpzHQJ0/s1600/AtoZ+Animal+Art+Challenge.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
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<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-25238796379576361022014-04-14T20:33:00.000-05:002018-12-25T14:24:22.632-06:00Easter Art Challenge<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m0dI2it3BIU/U0yKJ8lsDzI/AAAAAAAAA6A/euhvJGJgF4w/s1600/8+Days+of+Easter+Art+Challenge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m0dI2it3BIU/U0yKJ8lsDzI/AAAAAAAAA6A/euhvJGJgF4w/s1600/8+Days+of+Easter+Art+Challenge.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6UOgUIsq1nFMGhwOFRZWnRnQUk/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">FREE PDF</a></div>
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Hello, Peeps! <span style="font-size: x-small;">(See what I did there?)</span></div>
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It's Easter. Time for another art challenge. Won't you join me? Link up on Instagram #8daysofeasterartchallenge.</div>
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~Allison</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RIrt2_OAigA/U0yK-oZKEhI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/Z9-GLxLTdF4/s1600/DSCF0245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RIrt2_OAigA/U0yK-oZKEhI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/Z9-GLxLTdF4/s1600/DSCF0245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-89981519694141219522014-03-07T13:41:00.001-06:002020-08-29T08:18:00.960-05:00Some Lucky Resources<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d7-BSLuhqFU/UxoTvrMJyeI/AAAAAAAAA3k/N76ixFf42mQ/s1600/IMG_5552.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d7-BSLuhqFU/UxoTvrMJyeI/AAAAAAAAA3k/N76ixFf42mQ/s1600/IMG_5552.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love decorating for all holidays, but too many trips to Hobby Lobby and my budget will suffer the consequences. Trying to<span style="font-size: large;"> keep things simple & economical, </span>I am sharing the resources that have inspired my Lucky Decor.<br />
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<u>Banner Instructions:</u></div>
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1. Print out "L-U-C-K-Y" images (below) on desired sized white card stock or paper</div>
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2. Trim close to green outline edge.</div>
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3. Using glue or double-stick tape, attach trimmed letter papers to green or patterned papers.</div>
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4. Trim around edge of colored/patterned paper to make it same shape as letter paper, leaving as much colored/patterned paper showing as you like.</div>
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5. Punch two holes in tops of each letter/patterned piece, about 1 inch from each side and 1/2 inch from top.</div>
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6. String all letter/patterned pieces, in order, onto string, ribbon, or wire. Decorate with ribbons, fabric strips, etc. </div>
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7. Hang and enjoy!</div>
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More Resources:</div>
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My <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/alinate/luck-o-the-irish/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">"Luck 'o the Irish"</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Pinterest </span></a>Board</div>
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Recycled Shamrock <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://addingtothebeautyblog.blogspot.com/2012/02/recycled-lucky-door-decoration.html" target="_blank">Door Decor</a></span></div>
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<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-51309479642132720822014-02-06T16:53:00.000-06:002018-12-25T14:25:17.657-06:00Valentine Gift for YouAs part of my <a href="http://addingtothebeautyblog.blogspot.com/2014/02/14-days-of-love-art-challenge.html" target="_blank">#14daysofloveartchallenge</a>, I created this little scripture art based on 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rL9uRgF97oE/UvQSF9n184I/AAAAAAAAA3E/BwiK550ti64/s1600/1+corinthians+13+Subway+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rL9uRgF97oE/UvQSF9n184I/AAAAAAAAA3E/BwiK550ti64/s1600/1+corinthians+13+Subway+art.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-90672842492408361612014-02-01T10:16:00.000-06:002014-06-08T14:42:53.081-05:0014 Days of Love Art ChallengeHere's some daily drawing inspiration! Enjoy.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ztA0n-0tnPo/Uu0ddLCDnpI/AAAAAAAAA20/i6rB-gPuO3Y/s1600/14+Days+of+Love+Art+Challenge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ztA0n-0tnPo/Uu0ddLCDnpI/AAAAAAAAA20/i6rB-gPuO3Y/s1600/14+Days+of+Love+Art+Challenge.jpg" height="640" width="492" /></a></div>
<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-33978249675384726142014-01-02T17:05:00.002-06:002020-10-15T07:09:28.982-05:002014: A Fear-Less Year<span style="font-size: large;">It is not a coincidence that the sermon on the last Sunday of 2013 was about the relationship between fear and faith.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">He has been whispering in my ear, "This year, Allison, will be </span><span style="font-size: large;">fear-less."</span><br />
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Even in the dark places...<br />
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"<i>But no one except Lucy knew that as it circled the mast it had whispered to her, '<span>Courage, Dear Heart</span>,' and the voice, she felt sure, was Aslan's, and with the voice a delicious smell breathed in her face.</i>"</span> <i> <span style="font-size: x-small;"> ~</span></i><span style="font-size: x-small;">C.S. Lewis, <i>The Voyage of the Dawn Treader</i> </span></blockquote>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. ~John 1:5</td></tr>
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Even in the unknown...</span></div>
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"Much-Afraid, don't ever allow yourself to begin trying to picture what it will be like. Believe me, when you get to the place which you dread you will find that they are as different as possible from what you have imagined...and if you ever let Craven Fear begin painting a picture on the screen of your imagination, you will walk with fear and trembling and agony, <span>where no fear is</span>."</i></span> <span style="font-size: x-small;">~Hannah Hurnard, <i>Hinds' Feet on High Places</i></span></blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6OQQtV9zzIo/UsXvovEx7GI/AAAAAAAAA2k/enRkqQBaV-4/s1600/36824_146084962087359_156311_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="627" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6OQQtV9zzIo/UsXvovEx7GI/AAAAAAAAA2k/enRkqQBaV-4/w640-h627/36824_146084962087359_156311_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out from the bog and the mire, and set me feet on a hard, firm path, and steadied me as I walked along. ~Psalm 40:2</td></tr>
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He came to give me <span>abundant life</span>. He died and rose again so that I can <span>fear-less</span><span> </span>and...</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">live more</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">love more</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">create more</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">rest more</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">trust more</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">laugh more</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">enjoy more</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">learn more</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">forgive more</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">give more</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">hope more</span></li>
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There are hundreds of verses in the Bible on this topic. <a href="http://www.womensbiblecafe.com/2011/05/50-scripture-verses-on-fear/" target="_blank">HERE </a>you will find a list of 50 verses to help you live fear-less this year. </span></div>
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Word for 2014: <span>Fear-less </span><br />
Verse for 2014: <span>Isaiah 41:10 </span><br />
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I created the print out below, hung it above my desk, and on my bathroom mirror. Savor every word, friends, because this Truth is all you need to have a Fear-less 2014.</span><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">~<span style="font-family: Dancing Script;">Allison</span><br /></span>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dyMFUXRag8M/UsXo1iFFsjI/AAAAAAAAA2I/HXVDk9X5nZA/s1600/Isaiah+41+v.10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dyMFUXRag8M/UsXo1iFFsjI/AAAAAAAAA2I/HXVDk9X5nZA/s400/Isaiah+41+v.10.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
<br /></div>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-2279267424920053962013-12-30T20:31:00.000-06:002018-12-25T14:46:52.436-06:00New Year's Drawing Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">A new year is a new opportunity to be creative, and, as Henri Matisse said, "Creativity takes courage."<a name='more'></a></span><br />
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Here's a<span style="font-size: large;"> new challenge</span> for the <span style="font-size: large;">new year</span>. How can you participate?</div>
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<li>Sketch</li>
<li>Paint</li>
<li>Write</li>
<li>Compose</li>
<li>Sculpt</li>
<li>Photograph</li>
<li>Compile</li>
<li>Reflect</li>
<li>Blog</li>
<li>Cook</li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fear less, create more.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lmpta.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/polynesia-the-sea-henri-matisse.png?w=810" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://lmpta.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/polynesia-the-sea-henri-matisse.png?w=810" height="131" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Polynesia, the Sea | Henri Matisse</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>"Creativity is contagious, pass it on"</i> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Albert Einstein</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/h2/h2_1993.132.jpg" target="_blank">Wheat Field with Cypresses | Vincent van Gogh</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>"If you hear a voice within you say, </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>'You cannot paint,' then by all means paint and that voice will be silenced."</i> ~ Vincent van Gogh</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nYzb4EdLLFM/Up-skXrHSTI/AAAAAAAABJw/2V1OEKX4fGY/s320/Pablo-Picasso-Head-Of-A-Woman--Silkscreen-print--7569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nYzb4EdLLFM/Up-skXrHSTI/AAAAAAAABJw/2V1OEKX4fGY/s200/Pablo-Picasso-Head-Of-A-Woman--Silkscreen-print--7569.jpg" width="166" /></a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Head of a Woman | Pablo Picasso</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>"To draw you must close your eyes and sing."</i> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> ~ Pablo Picasso</span></div>
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Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-31440048730200737782013-12-07T11:11:00.001-06:002018-12-25T14:47:56.282-06:00Christmas Past: Sugar Babies, Handmade Love, & Overcoming Depression#25daysxmasart Day 6~ Christmas Past<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F843HCBSd3s/UqKOlSpXpgI/AAAAAAAAAzA/orFzzyvjR5k/s1600/IMG_5158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F843HCBSd3s/UqKOlSpXpgI/AAAAAAAAAzA/orFzzyvjR5k/s320/IMG_5158.JPG" width="142" /></a></div>
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Decorating the tree sends me back in time. We open box after box of Hallmark Keepsake ornaments, faithfully given by my mother. <i>Our First Christmas Together </i>and<i> Baby's 1st</i> (times 4) mingle with Veggie Tales, Iron Man, Barbie, and Harry Potter. <span style="font-size: medium;">Each child will have</span> <span style="font-size: medium;">18+ ornaments</span> to start trees when they feather their own nests.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N24OPZ7-b68/UqKPJWingNI/AAAAAAAAAzY/zmDPyUjljmk/s1600/IMG_5181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N24OPZ7-b68/UqKPJWingNI/AAAAAAAAAzY/zmDPyUjljmk/s320/IMG_5181.JPG" width="251" /></a></div>
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I was 10 years old when this<span style="font-size: large;"> iconic holiday movie</span> came out. <br />
<a name='more'></a>My classmate and I each handed over $3.50 of allowance money to buy tickets at the Florida Triple (now replaced by a CVS). I remember laughing a lot and throwing Sugar Babies at the people a few rows in front of us.<br />
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For most of my married life (21 years), this movie has been part of our Christmas Eve tradition. We nosh appetizers and finger food, drink sparkling cider from champagne flutes, and scheme and fret along with Ralphie in his quest for the Red Ryder BB Gun with a<span style="font-size: large;"> "compass, and a stock, and this thing which tells time."</span><br />
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At some point after I got married, my mom gave me her collection of <span style="font-size: large;">handmade ornaments</span>. There are no less than 25 stitched and stuffed colorful puffy ornaments...hearts, angels, Santas, wreathes, birds. Also included in this labor-of-love collection are 20+ tiny framed cross-stitch reindeer, gingerbread houses, mice, bears, and toys. Every time I hang them, I am amazed by and appreciate the <i>many </i>hours my mom put into these family treasures.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eUU-sYgIrVk/UqNCCkEu2ZI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/VLkwaNkFo8g/s1600/IMG_5173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eUU-sYgIrVk/UqNCCkEu2ZI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/VLkwaNkFo8g/s320/IMG_5173.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I made these<span style="font-size: large;"> twisted paper ribbon</span> candy canes for our first tree. I remember what a pain it was to untwist the ribbon so I could work it into shape. Anyone else remember crafting with this stuff in the 80s and 90s?</div>
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These shoes were a gift for my third child who was just an infant when we celebrated the Millennium Christmas. His was a difficult birth surrounded by some trauma for both of us. I struggled with severe <span style="font-size: large;">postpartum depression</span>. After seeking help from my husband, my doctor, and my Savior, I slowly began to emerge from the dark foggy days. That Christmas marks the beginning of the light dawning in my darkness.<br />
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<i>When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever </i><br />
<i> follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."</i> John 8:12<br />
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I am not a medical or counseling professional, but from my own experience I can tell you that if you are struggling with depression, there <span style="font-size: large;">IS HOPE</span>. Talk to a trusted friend, seek professional help, and check these out:<br />
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.crosswalk.com/faith/women/overcome-anxiety-and-depression-11563116.html" target="_blank">Overcoming Anxiety and Depression</a> *Based on my own experience, I agree with most of this article, except his opinion about medication being rarely necessary. Medication can often help level out your anxiety/depression to the point where you can function well enough to begin the work of healing through therapy.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.christianbook.com/conquering-depression-plan-finding-happiness-ebook/mark-sutton/9781433669613/pd/6982EB?product_redirect=1&Ntt=6982EB&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP" target="_blank">Conquering Depression</a> *This book helped me learn to identify what was causing, contributing to, and intensifying my anxiety and depression and gave me tools to fight back.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.aacc.net/resources/find-a-counselor/" target="_blank">American Association of Christian Counselors</a> *If you are a church member, you may want to start by talking with your pastor for counsel and recommendations of christian counselors in your area. I cannot stress enough how valuable counseling has been for me...and the necessity to work with a counselor who will use scripture to help direct you to the truly Wonderful Counselor who knows you better than you know yourself.</li>
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<i>For unto us a Child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on His </i><br />
<i> shoulders. And He will be called <span style="font-size: large;">Wonderful Counselor</span>, Mighty God, </i><br />
<i> Everlasting Father, </i><i><span style="font-size: large;">Prince of Peace</span>. </i> Isaiah 9:6<br />
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Merry Christmas!<br />
~Allison<br />
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Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-21727835249894555772013-12-01T08:24:00.002-06:002014-06-08T14:42:53.063-05:0025 Days of Christmas Art ChallengeHere's another opportunity to create every day. Draw, paint, sculpt, color, cook, write, compose, sing, remember, reflect.... Whatever your medium, you are creative because you were made in the image of The Creator.<br />
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Merry Christmas!<br />
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~Allison<br />
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<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-534739792795670942013-11-16T12:02:00.000-06:002015-11-14T16:51:42.455-06:0014 Days of Thanksgiving Art Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7-RBpurt4E4/UoeoLbvNJCI/AAAAAAAAAxw/PblDEzfurEM/s1600/14DayTAC+~1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7-RBpurt4E4/UoeoLbvNJCI/AAAAAAAAAxw/PblDEzfurEM/s320/14DayTAC+~1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Drawing challenges are great motivation for keeping up with daily drawing practice. I have done several 30-day challenges I found online. I really wanted to do some thematic challenges for the holiday season, but nothing has come up on Google, so I've made up my own.<br />
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My list is a mix of concrete (objects, people) and abstract (feelings, memories, ideas) prompts.</div>
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Feel free to join in, whatever your art medium. If you prefer to create with words, these are great journal prompts.</div>
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If you are participating 14 Days of TAC, please<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><a href="http://addingtothebeautyblog.blogspot.com/2013/11/14-days-of-thanksgiving-art-challenge.html#comment-form" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">comment</span> </a>below and join me on Instagram: #14DaysThanksgivingArt.</div>
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Happy Creating!</div>
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~Allison</div>
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UPDATE:<br />
Had so much fun with this last year I decided to do it again. Here is the challenge for 2014<br />
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Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-46449384856025629482013-11-14T19:14:00.000-06:002018-12-25T14:53:39.979-06:00A Shopper's Lament<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am an exuberant celebrator of Christmas but I do get a queasy feeling in my stomach when I see red and green peaking out behind the back-to-school banners in my local Stuff-Mart. What happened to Thanksgiving? You're lucky if you can even find a single end cap display dedicated to Turkey Day.<br />
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And what's with the stores opening earlier and earlier for "Black Friday" deals....like in September?<br />
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Here's a little poem I wrote a few years ago after observing the shocking rows of red and green merging seamlessly with orange and black of Halloween.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://addingtothebeautyblog.blogspot.com/2013/11/a-shoppers-lament.html" target="_blank">A Shopper's Lament</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">by Allison Weeks, 2008</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">'Twas early September, when all through the stores,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the holiday season came in with a roar.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sparkling lights, ribbons, and bows,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and for REAL Noel junkies,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">a red Rudolph nose.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"It doesn't seem right," my daughter complained,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"that Christmas is peddled 'midst a hurricane!"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"Of course, Dear," I tried to explain,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"we all enjoy Christmas, but this is insane!"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"Earlier and earlier, the wares have appeared,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">stretching the season more every year."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"Come early December," I said with a sigh,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"these vendors will offer Easter bunnies to buy."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"We'll gladly comply, for we haven't an eye</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">for the holly that's hung since 4th of July!"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Christmas comes December 25th.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do we really need to prepare on June 6th?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Please understand, I do not object</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">to planning ahead for what you'll collect.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But couldn't we all be a bit circumspect</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">to not buy our tinsel and fake candied fruits</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">while still donning flip flops and bathing suits?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Not to be Scrooge or down-right depressing,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'll wrap up this rhyme with a plea that is stressing</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">for all my dear friends and family, too, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the holiday message I'm sending to you:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">No matter how early we start to shop,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Christmas will come and force us to stop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then what to our wondering eyes will appear,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">but mountains of rough-totes to store 'till next year!</span></div>
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"A Shopper's Lament" first appeared on<a href="http://addingtothebeautyblog.blogspot.com/2013/11/a-shoppers-lament.html" target="_blank"> Adding to the Beauty blog</a>. Original content copyright, 2013.</div>
<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-61138355946377313532013-11-11T05:00:00.000-06:002018-12-25T14:54:57.663-06:00Focus on BeautyThere is a lot of ugliness in this world. On a global scale poverty, war, disease, famine, and disaster seem to run rampant. Local communities suffer from crime, broken families, bullying, prejudice. Under my own roof you may find harsh words, dishonesty, anger, bitterness, & selfishness on any given day.<br />
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Still, "there is nothing new under the sun." The ugliness of the human heart remains until the terminally ill patient submits to the ONE who can perform the life-giving transplant.<br />
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I have had the surgery; yet the darkness of that old, hard heart still occasionally tries to creep in and interrupt the abundant, healthy rhythm He placed in me.<br />
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Usually, the arrhythmia takes the form of fear, bitterness, or discontent. It can happen very subtly, so I must guard against the false thinking that causes my heart to skip beats. <span style="font-size: large;">The best way to combat lies is with TRUTH. </span><br />
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KNOW Truth<br />
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FEED on Truth<br />
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MEMORIZE Truth<br />
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so you can RECOGNIZE Truth and dismiss anything else as a lie. <br />
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<i> Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent of praiseworthy--think about such things.</i><br />
Philippians 4:8<br />
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This is our pacemaker. <span style="font-size: large;">Focus on Beauty</span>. Fill your mind with true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy things. Surround yourself with influences (people, books, music, media) that promote a healthy heart.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-47oV6VX0jPE/UoAXIJAu-wI/AAAAAAAAAxE/ajqyczBIF-M/s1600/Phil+4_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-47oV6VX0jPE/UoAXIJAu-wI/AAAAAAAAAxE/ajqyczBIF-M/s320/Phil+4_8.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<li>Enjoy this little homemade subway art. Print out and post somewhere you will see it often!</li>
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<li>Companion Printable of <a href="http://addingtothebeautyblog.blogspot.com/2012/04/be-careful-little-eyes.html" target="_blank">Psalm 101: 2-3</a></li>
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<ul>
<li>Heart Healthy Truth: <a href="http://www.biblestudytools.com/ezekiel/36-26.html" target="_blank">Ezekiel 36:26</a> <a href="http://www.biblestudytools.com/2-corinthians/5-17.html" target="_blank">2 Corinthians 5:17</a></li>
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<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-90171189537185301772013-11-09T10:38:00.001-06:002018-12-25T14:58:41.835-06:00Luxury Problems...Get Some PerspectiveFound the draft of a blog post from the beginning of September. I have gained some perspective since then (see end of post for updates), but it's still worth posting my rant if for nothing but to remind myself that my "problems" are luxuries to most of the world.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s3.favim.com/orig/42/life-people-perspective-quotes-reality-check-Favim.com-354732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://s3.favim.com/orig/42/life-people-perspective-quotes-reality-check-Favim.com-354732.jpg" height="320" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://favim.com/image/354732/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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September 1, 2013<br />
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Feeling funky today. Not good, R&B funky. No, more like stinky cheese funky. Could be a mini-breakdown due to moving across 4 states, kids starting school, and turning 40 this month.Could be hormones. Who knows. My chief complaints are as follows:<br />
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#1 Two months in our new hometown and we still are not settled in a church. This matters because it is where I find my center. I never really feel at home in a city until we have a home church.</div>
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#2 Since we moved, I have gained 12 pounds and my <i>beginning of summer </i>clothes are NOT going to be my <i>end of summer clothes</i> if I want to be able to breathe normally. Lord, please hasten cooler weather so I can hide under puffy layers of denim and wool.</div>
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#3 After 8 years of homeschooling, my kids are in school, all of them. Yes, they went to school last year, but that doesn't count since the hubs and I were full time business owners--I don't even remember last year.</div>
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Now they are gone all day and I am in a losing battle against urges to walk mindlessly through Target, bake, and watch Food Network (could be related to #2), while the laundry, bills, and dirty dishes pile up. <br />
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<b>Family:</b> <i>Mom, what's for dinner?</i> <br />
<b>Me:</b> I don't know. Have a cookie. <br />
<b>Family:</b> <i>Mom, what am I supposed to wear to school tomorrow?</i> <br />
<b>Me:</b> I don't know. Have a cookie. </div>
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It's only been one week since school started, so I'm chalking last week's "do nothing fest" up to summer decompression. I'll do better next week. Maybe.<br />
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#4 Middle-Age has my number, and it's calling in exactly 19 days. Whoever said, "40 is the new 20," is just stupid. That statement is wrong in so many ways.</div>
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#5 I live in no-man's land. Seriously, our neighborhood is spread out among the hills and we all have large lots. I have more interaction with wildlife than with humans. Coupled with #1 and #3, I'm a wee bit lonesome.</div>
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All of these things have pulled me down into a funk noticeable enough for my husband to ask me about. First, he dispelled my negative body image by assuring me that I look fabulously sexy and he never even noticed that I'd gained weight (good man). However, he then sucker punched me with this statement: "These are all luxury problems, Allison."</div>
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Luxury problems are woes that only about 1% of the world's population ever experience. They are the problems of abundance and wealth; "First World Problems." <br />
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We have not settled on a church because there are several great options to choose from. In many parts of the world, believers are ecstatic to walk 20 miles to attend <b>covert worship services in underground churches</b>. <br />
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I have gained a few pounds because I have <b>more food than I know what to do with.</b><br />
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My kids get to go to some of the best schools in the country, <b>for free</b>! (Yes, I know...property tax. Throw me a bone here.)<br />
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I am approaching a milestone of 40, rich, memory-filled years of life<b> </b>on this earth; and every birthday I celebrate brings me closer to <b>my real life which is hidden with Christ </b>in heaven.<br />
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My "no-man's-land" home is beautiful, safe, cozy, and large. My neighbors have already reached out to my family with <b>much kindness and hospitality...the ball is in my court.</b> Time to get off my butt and practice having an open heart and open home.</div>
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UPDATE: November 9, 2013<br />
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We have found a church with strong biblical teaching and genuine, living-out-their-faith members.<br />
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Shed a few pounds, but more importantly, focusing on meeting my running goals. I refuse to step on the scale. I track progress by my mileage and how my clothes fit. Plus, colder weather is here....LAYERS!<br />
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The kids are not failing school and I have cut my Target trips by 2/3.<br />
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Turned 40, and lived to tell about it.<br />
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Slowly building community among my neighbors.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Praying every day for PERSPECTIVE.</span><br />
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Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-8492377166098256212013-05-20T16:32:00.002-05:002018-12-25T15:02:01.253-06:00Single Serving Pot Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Meat. Gravy. Veggies. All wrapped up in a flaky pie crust.<br />
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Pot pies are a wonderful invention. In our family we have a hard time cutting up a traditional pot pie without making a mess and/or fighting over crust. </div>
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Solution: <span style="font-size: large;"><u>INDIVIDUAL POT PIES</u> </span><br />
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2 store bought refrigerated pie crusts (I like Pillsbury)</div>
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4 TBS butter</div>
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1/2 cup chopped onion</div>
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1/4 cup chopped celery</div>
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1 clove garlic, minced</div>
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1/3 cup flour</div>
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3 cups fat free chicken broth (room temp, or warm) **</div>
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3-4 cups deli rotisserie chicken, diced **</div>
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1 tsp dried thyme</div>
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1/2 tsp dried sage</div>
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1/4 tsp ground nutmeg **</div>
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10 oz frozen mixed veggies (I use the corn, pea, lima bean mix)</div>
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**<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>(beef variation at the end of recipe)</div>
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<li>PREP THE PIE DOUGH: Divide 2 pie crusts into 8 equal portions each (16 portions total). Roll 8 portions out into a 4-5 inch circle to fit into an extra-large muffin tin with some overlap. Spray muffin tin, fit circles into each section, and poke a few holes in the bottoms with a fork. Set aside the remaining 8 portions (these will be the tops).</li>
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<li>Cook frozen veggies according to package direction. Drain well, and set aside.</li>
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<li>MAKE THE GRAVY: In a heavy sauce pot, on medium-high, melt 2 TBS butter, add onions and celery. Sautee until soft. Add garlic and cook until garlic starts to brown, stirring constantly. Add remaining butter, stir until melted. Add flour and stir well until it becomes like paste. Slowly add room temp/warm broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add spices, stir well. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cook until thick, about 5 minutes. <i> If gravy is not thick enough, you may add a little cornstarch dissolved in water to boiling gravy and it should thicken right up</i>. Add rotisserie chicken and stir to coat the chicken well with gravy. Remove from heat. Set aside.</li>
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<li>ASSEMBLE THE PIES: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Divide cooked, drained veggies equally into 8 pot pie shells. Top veggies with chicken/gravy mixture.</li>
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<li>Roll out the remaining 8 dough portions into 3-4 inch circles. Place one on top of each filled pie shell, crimping edges to seal. Using a sharp knife, gently cut a few small slits into the tops of each to allow for steam to vent.</li>
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<li>Bake at 400 degrees until tops are golden brown (about 30-40 minutes). </li>
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<li>Be sure to allow the cooked pies to cool IN THE PAN for at least 15 minutes so they will come out easier. But even if they fall apart a bit, they still taste wonderful.</li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u>BEEF POT PIE:</u></span></div>
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This recipe works just as well for beef pot pie. Follow same directions with these substitutions:</div>
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**3-4 cups shredded or diced cooked beef (I use left-over roast. Recipe found<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://addingtothebeautyblog.blogspot.com/2011/08/smell-of-pot-roast.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </span>You can also use left-over steak, or even cooked ground beef)</div>
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**3 cups beef broth, room temp. or warm</div>
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**Do not use nutmeg with beef (you can cook your gravy with a sprig of rosemary; remove before filling pies)</div>
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Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-22764262765144484602013-02-04T20:05:00.001-06:002014-03-07T13:42:32.069-06:00Valentine Banner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0DqhnL6iWa4/URBjCq7YJ1I/AAAAAAAAAsE/-m4DUh86OWw/s1600/IMG_1921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0DqhnL6iWa4/URBjCq7YJ1I/AAAAAAAAAsE/-m4DUh86OWw/s640/IMG_1921.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Life has been moving at a crazy, hectic, ridiculous pace. Time to slow down and practice a little creativity.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pinterest has such great ideas for decorations made from bits and scraps of this and that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I came across this lovely heart graphic on Pinterest. Thanks, <a href="http://graphicsfairy.blogspot.com/2012/02/vintage-valentines-day-clip-art.html" target="_blank">Graphics Fairy</a>! I added my own letters and printed each on card stock. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Torn edges, mounted on brown craft paper (paper bags work, too).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Glue on some buttons, lace, and attach to ribbon to make a banner.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So pretty!</span></div>
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Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-349321605730828812013-02-03T07:40:00.000-06:002013-11-11T16:34:51.099-06:00Hard Days Things don't always turn out like we expect. We pray for wisdom, look both ways, then take a giant leap into the unknown. God is there to catch us when we fall, but we fall none the less.<br />
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What to do when we find ourselves broken, bruised, and disappointed by life?<br />
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We can only cling to the Rock that is unchanging, eternal, ever-fixed. <br />
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Isn't that what we should be doing all along....in the good and the bad?<br />
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<i>He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. <span style="font-size: large;">A faithful God </span>who does no wrong, upright and just is He.</i> Deut 32:4<br />
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<i>Since you are <span style="font-size: large;">my rock and my fortress</span>, for the sake of your name, lead me and guide me. </i>Psalm 31:3<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">He alone is my rock</span> and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.</i> Psalm 62:6<br />
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<i>The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall because it had its <span style="font-size: large;">foundation on the rock</span>.</i> Matthew 7:25<br />
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<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-65430286837023456422012-09-28T21:25:00.002-05:002012-09-29T07:57:42.098-05:00Fall Flavors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My Yankee candles have been burning non-stop this week. "Apple Pumpkin" and "Harvest" scents filled the house. I even bought an "Autumn Wreath" Car Jar. Monday morning temps were just under 60°. Temps reached 85° before noon. It's fall in North Florida. The weather is just a tease, so we have to take extra measures to create a fall feeling in our environment.<br />
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I figured some fall-flavored yummies would be a big hit with the fam. Pinterest is full of fall-inspired desserts, most have <span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>apple </b></span>or <span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>pumpkin</b></span> and <span style="color: #783f04; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>salted caramel</b></span>. <br />
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The following creation was full of wonderment.<br />
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<u>Apple Cupcakes</u><br />
Preheat oven 350°.<br />
Cream 5 TBS butter in mixer. Add 1/3 cup white sugar and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Beat until fluffy. <br />
Add 2 eggs. Mix well. Add 1 tsp vanilla.<br />
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In medium bowl, combine 1 2/3 cup AP flour, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, and<br />
1/4 tsp EACH: ground cloves, allspice, ginger.<br />
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In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup applesauce with 1/2 cup buttermilk.<br />
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Alternate adding dry and wet ingredients to butter-sugar mixture, stirring gently until well combined.<br />
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Spray or line a 12-cup muffin tin. Fill each 2/3 full with batter. Bake 350° for 18-19 minutes. Cool completely before frosting.<br />
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<u>Salted Caramel Buttercream</u><br />
<i>for caramel</i><br />
1/2 cup brown sugar<br />
3 TBS salted butter<br />
1-2 TBS heavy cream or half and half<br />
1/8 tsp salt<br />
<br />
In heavy-bottomed pot combine butter, sugar, and cream. Bring to a boil. Let boil for 2-3 minutes, to soft ball stage. Remove from heat.<br />
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<i>for buttercream</i><br />
1/2 cup salted butter, softened<br />
1/2 cup shortening<br />
3 cups powdered sugar<br />
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In mixer, cream butter and shortening. Add 2 cups powdered sugar, beat till smooth. Add 3-4 TBS of mostly cooled caramel. Add remaining sugar and beat till smooth. (I used the whisk attachment)<br />
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When cupcakes are cool, frost with an extra-large decorator tip. Drizzle with remaining caramel (you may need to reheat the caramel a bit).Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-33023608492609797412012-08-11T09:23:00.004-05:002020-10-15T14:21:27.000-05:00On My NightstandHere's what I'm reading lately,<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Deliver-Us-Me-Ville-David-Zimmerman/dp/B00394DIGW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344691717&sr=8-1&keywords=deliver+us+from+me-ville" target="_blank"><u>Deliver Us From Me-Ville</u> </a> | David Zimmerman<br />
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Great book! David has a way of making us laugh <span style="font-size: large;">and</span> challenging our self-centered behavior at the same time. He is not condemning from on high; he's right there in Superbia with us.<br />
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Some quotes from the introduction ~<br />
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<br />
<ul>
<li>"<i>superbia-----</i>Latin for pride or, more precisely, an inordinate sense of self-regard...counted by ancient Christians as one of the seven deadly sins that destroyed the work of grace in the life of a believer."</li>
</ul>
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<br />
<ul>
<li>"The word <i>superbia</i> sounds to me like a place--like suburbia or Albania or Utopia. I like to call that place Me-Ville--a kind of suburb to the city of God."</li>
</ul>
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<br />
<ul>
<li>"There's the kingdom that God reigns over, and there's the kingdom that we assert in our everyday lives. They're commingled in the way that the city of Chicago and its suburbs, for example, are commingled. The suburbs thrive at least in part because of their proximity to the city, but they would never dream of allowing Chicago's mayor tell them what to do."</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>"We're moving happily through our lives, telling God we love him; but meanwhile our universe revolves around us, and we act accordingly, promoting our own agenda, pronouncing judgement on people and circumstances based on how we're affected."</li>
</ul>
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<br />
<ul>
<li>"...we're living in the wrong kingdom. The kingdom of God is firmly established because it's the place where our God reigns. Me-Ville is not. Me-Ville is where superbia reigns; it's a place from which we must escape."</li>
</ul>
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Each chapter ends with "Escape Routes", practical and challenging questions and applications to get readers moving out of Me-Ville and into the City of God.<br />
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<br />
<u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sharper-Your-Knife-Less-You/dp/0143114131/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1344693469&sr=1-1&keywords=the+sharper+your+knife+the+less+you+cry" target="_blank">The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry</a></u> | Kathleen Flinn<br />
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Another good read for a "foodie", this charming memoir records Ms. Flinn's experience at the famed Paris cooking school, Le Cordon Bleu. She candidly shares her journey from Basic Cuisine through Superior Cuisine with wit and strong writing. Flinn takes us along for the ride through her struggle to learn French, her victories and defeats in the classroom, and the relationships she forms along the way. While there are some sexual situations I'd rather not hear about, Flinn does not go into too much detail and the book is thankfully free of explicit sex and language. The author sticks to the subject at hand, the fast-paced, furious life of a culinary student at the world's most famous cooking school.<br />
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<br />
ON MY iPOD~<br />
<br />
<u>Emma</u> | Jane Ausin<br />
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I cannot say enough about the excellence of <span style="font-size: large;">narrator, Nadia May</span>. I have listened to her read over half a dozen books and never tire of her voice. She is a talented actress, giving life and individuality to every character she reads. I've listened to her reading of <u>Pride and Prejudice</u> THREE times! I recommend any audio book read by May. You can log onto the iTunes store and search for her name.<br />
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Happy Reading!<br />
~AllisonAllisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-605148175542786098.post-90207858160958203072012-08-06T06:40:00.004-05:002018-12-25T15:04:43.567-06:00Thrifty Treasures ~ August 6thThis has been a whirlwind summer! My first time having all four kids go to camp (at different times, of course). The teenagers went to camp more than once (youth camp, choir tour, & for the oldest boy, scout camp). I even went to camp...business boot camp, that is! One week of intensive training in greater Chicagoland, but hey at least I didn't have to cook, clean or do laundry for 5 whole days!!<br />
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So, I have not had a whole lot of free time on my hands, which means thrifting has been off my radar screen. However, last week, while the younger two were away at kid camp, I did steal an afternoon to scour my favorite shops.<br />
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Here's my thrift haul:<br />
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This game is so neat! I could tell from the box that it was from the 80s. It reminds me of the packaging for the game Othello. Remember that one? All of the pieces were there and I quickly got the gist that it's like dominoes, but with <span style="font-size: large;">more math</span>. So, of course the homeschool mom in me snatched that up for some "fun" math practice with my kiddos. As soon as I got home I made my 16yo play with me and.....SHE LOVED IT! YAY-SCORE ME! <br />
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You can still find original games floating around. But you could also go to the store today and buy a modern version, OR if you must play right away, there is now a <a href="http://www.classicgamesandpuzzles.com/Tri-Ominos.html" target="_blank">Tri-Ominos app</a> for your smart phone.<br />
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My cost = $2.99<br />
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I'm always on the lookout for books. My haul today included these four. The children's book is full of adorable illustrations and funny little poems. The novel is some bedtime reading for the hubby. The music book is for me as I try and teach myself more about reading music in hopes of learning to play our new piano. <i>Football Stories</i> is from the "Boys Life Library". I have three scouts (4 if you count "Scoutmaster Hubby"), and <i>Boys Life</i> magazines are a coveted prize around here. They read them cover to cover, over and over again. I had no idea there was a vintage collection of stories like this. I'm keeping my eye out for the rest of the collection.<br />
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My cost = $6 for all four<br />
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Ah, my Lovelies! I am in love with the blue-green bowl. Depending on the light it will be one color or the other. Some more milk-glass. Can you ever have too much? I think not!<br />
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My cost = $12 for all glass pieces<br />
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Because our Goodwill is kind of pricey, I was not able to go home with everything I loved. Here's what I left behind:<br />
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Super-soft afghan in great shape. (I'm still a little skeptical about bringing home blankets from Goodwill. How do I get them clean?) Lovely little blue bird trivet. I do collect trivets (because they are a usable collection), but this one had no hanging mechanism on the back. <br />
Another milk-glass piece. -sigh-<br />
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That's my haul. It's a big one, but I had to make up for a whole summer!! I'm linking up over at <a href="http://simpledesign.net/share-your-thrift-haul-13/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+simpledesignblog+%28Simple+Design%29" target="_blank">Simple Design's Share Your Thrift Haul</a>. <br />
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Happy Thrifting!<br />
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~Allison<br />
<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03975954944094449407noreply@blogger.com2