My Love for Reading and Book Reviews for January 2012

I love Fridays and especially this one because I have a weekend off from Mardel and a long weekend off from work with Monday being a holiday.  Woohoo!!

I have always loved reading but since I started working at Mardel I have had the opportunity to read and review so many wonderful books and the love for reading as grown

So here are a handful that I have read and recommend for different reasons:
1.  Kisses from Katie by Katie Davis
2.  Tim Tebow's Through My Eyes
3.  Tony Dungy's Uncommon One Year Devotional
4.  Jesus Calling for both children and the adult one too!
5.  One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp
6.  Heaven Is For Real by Todd Burpo (There is one for children too)
7.  Courageous (the movie is supposed to wonderful)
8.  Seven Days in Utopia movie and book
9.  Made to Crave by Lysa Terkeurst (Proverbs 31 Ministries)
10. I Am Second
11. The 10 Second Rule by Clare Graaf  
12. What happened to my life?   Finding New Passion, Purpose, and Joy by Danna Demetre
13. Fearless by Michelle Aguilar (Winner of Season 6 of The Biggest Loser)
14. Don't Waste Your Sports
15.  Do Something Make Your Life Count by Miles McPherson

I have either started and or finished reading all these books and would recommend them to anyone who has a love for reading. 

If you are interested in some good fiction christian novels please let me know and I will give you a few authors to check out this next week.

I am also going to review some new blogs I have become familiar with and will let you know what I love about each of them.  I hope to start sharing several per week as well as share some interesting testimonies
from wonderful men, women, and children I have had the pleasure of meeting along my journey.

Have a wonderful Friday night and if you need prayers please let me know and I will be happy to do that for you and are those you know who may need to be lifted up to our Heavenly Father. 

Remember to love others and give them all you have when with them, talking with them, and spending time with them.  Try to make the world a better place and change the lives of those you know or encounter just because you can in a way that lets them know you CARE.  Together we can make a difference.

Grateful for another day to live a life filled with love and joy while being the best I can walking the walk as a christian, mom, teacher, daughter, aunt, sister and friend. 

xoxoxo
BiT

Happy 72nd Birthday to my mom!!

Grateful for another birthday and year with my mom!!  I had the opportunity to tell her how much I loved her and admired her and appreciated all she has done to make our lives what they are today and were growing up.  Even though I am sure she knows, it really is important to let those you love know it and let them know why, why not?  Life is short and what a beautiful gift you can give someone you love.

Today I stumbled upon an exciting new venture on kickstarter.com and it has really ignited my DREAMS and Vision for the new year even more so!!  It is called HopeMOB and if you want to check it out you can go to kickstarter.com and or to Shaun King's blog at Shaun In The City.  I would love to be involved in a lot of the projects he has planned and would love to join his team.  I love hearing about others wanting to make a difference in others life and love his passion to do the same with lots of people.

So what goals and dreams do you have for 2012?  I would love to hear from you and also to get your thoughts on the above venture.

Have a wonderful Wednesday and I challenge you to make time for a delibrate act of love and kindness making the world better than when you woke up.  Hug those you love and let them know what they mean to you, why not?

xoxoxo
Diana aka BiT    

Saying Goodbye to 2011 and Hello to 2012!!!

I am so excited about the new year in 2012 and what is to come.  I truly believe that God has a plan so amazing and that we are in store for abundance blessings and am excited about loving God with all my heart and all those we encounter in the days, months, and year to come.

As I reflect on this past year, I am grateful for our life and have tried to embrace all our changes, and there have been many but have tried to look at all of them with a positive attitude knowing God has BIG plans for both Demi and I. 

I truly believe that with God all things are possible with a fresh start and that I have been able to deal with many of them to include loosing our home of 11 years and our means of transportation because of my faith and the desire to live in the now and in this moment.  I choose to look forward and at this time as a new beginning, out with the old and in with the new.  No sense in beating myself up and life is just way too short for that anyways.  I hope that the bigger lesson in all of all of this is that this does not have to define who we are and what is ahead.  So if you have experienced a tough year or two, hang in there.  Hold on to HOPE and know that you are loved and that life will get better.  It always lifts our spirits by going out and helping others with RANDOM AND DELIBERATE ACTS OF KINDNESS AND LOVE AND THE MORE YOU DO THIS THE MORE JOY YOU WILL FIND IN YOUR DAY BY GETTING THE FOCUS OFF OF YOU.  I dare you to join me in the fun and bringing hope to someone else who may be worse off then you and or me just because you could and do it with your children.  This is what I call living and being the hands and feet of Jesus.  Love More and Judge Less.....Forgive Easily and Complain Less....Be The Change You Want to See in the World and Live Each Day as a Gift. 

So here is to goodbye 2011 and hello 2012!!!  Happy New Year to all our family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and those we care about and love dearly.  We hope that you will have faith and believe that this upcoming year will be filled with continued blessings, love, prosperity, joy, peace, good health and all the things that the gift of life brings each day we have to enjoy next year.

On a closing note, my One Little Word that I am focusing on in 2012 is VISION. I will be back tomorrow with more on my word and what this will mean to me.  I am going to commit to my word everyday and if you would like to join me, you can visit Ali Edwards at her blog.

Again, blessed beyond belief in 2011 and I VISION an even more extraordinary year in 2012.

With love and hugs from my family to yours,
Diana and Demi
xoxoxo 

Your Christmas Story.....what would we read about??

If you were to write your story this Christmas and holiday season what would we read about? 

I am hoping to write a story of Christmas LOVE and HOPE by making a difference in a child's life...not my own child but with those I know who are looking for Santa to come this year.  I am looking for a little help and am hoping that "our village" of friends and family will step up and help.

I had a surprising encounter with a family I know this past Tuesday at a "Christmas Party" at my daughter's school for those who are considered homeless and needy, living below the poverty level (which mounts up to more than 70% in our local community) to come and receive a christmas present from a wonderful and local non profit, 6 Stones.  When I walked in I was surprised to see so many families I have known for 5 plus years here in the same situation I am in but with more children.   (Last year if not for some secret santa's Demi and I would have had a bleak christmas but thanks to some of our friends and family, Demi was able to enjoy Christmas which I was grateful for and even though I didn't need anything I was blessed with a few things too!)

It is in times like this that you realize that you really don't know what is going on in someone's life until you take the time to sit and actually have a conversation with someone.  One of my daughter's friends parents are strugglling to feed their 5 children after loosing everything.  And you wouldn't know it if you passed them along the street.   Our lives have been entangled and yet we come from very different backgrounds and environments our lives are not much different and as a parent I heard and saw the love they have for their children and the desire to want to bring them some JOY on one day as any loving parent wants to do.)

Their story:  4 of their 5 children are school aged children and received a present but their 4 yr old daughter did not since she does not go to school and then there are the parents who I know will not have anything and wouldn't think of spending money on themselves.  I mean at the end of the day, don't we all want to know that someone cares and that we are all loved by somebody? 

Now this is where I begin writing my story.....I could have just empathized with them since I have undergone the very same thing but I am choosing to do something...wish I could do more but before the night was over I was able to donate food that Demi and I collected in our neighborhoood over the last 5 weeks.  We were not sure where the canned goods would go but I prayed about it and knew that this was the family we would help.  We also donated our turkey and other food items we received so that they could feed all their children and themselves and not have any worries about whether they would have enough.  (We did share the love of Jesus and I was thrilled to find out they are Christians and that they remain faithful that God has a plan....I truly feel the best gift you can ever give someone is the opportunity to have them receive Jesus as their Savior and what better time then now?)

But I want to do MORE.  Why, because I can and I am not afraid of asking for help.  My hope is to inspire you and your families to be the ANGELS some family needs.  I don't tell you this to pat myself on the back either but to encourage you that you can do something today.....and that it doesnt have to be much.  You can get a group to adopt a child and family.  Invite someone over to enjoy and spend family time that may not otherwise be able to do that....or go visit someone who needs some love and attention.

So what will your story read this Christmas?  One of joy from giving by being the hands and feet of Jesus?  I will say that you will be the one feeling so blessed by GIVING this year and what an amazing LIFe LESSOn you get to share with your children!!

Happiest of holidays to my family and friends this Christmas Season,
Diana aka BIT
xoxoxo  

Kisses from Katie...another great read!!

So lately I have indulged myself in so many books from Kisses from Katie which is a must read to many children's books because I joined my angels at school and my daughter on a 40 book challenge, yes that is to read 40 books.  Now all the books will be include genres such as poetry, biographies, chapter books, classics and I am having a blast!!

I am feeling so at peace this holiday season, something I havent felt in about 3 years around this time of year.  Mainly because I haven't had any money to buy gifts for my child and or family.  I am not getting much this year but it does bring me some joy to be able to do a little and I am la almost done which is a rarity. 

I have a couple of gift ideas to share this weekend which are things your kids can make for teachers and or friends to include decoupaging items and also making cute scarfs.  Do you have any great ideas?

I am off to finish my book, God's Guest List tonight after a 16 hour day of working at the school and Mardels.  Did I mention I mention I am subbing at the high school tomorrow?  I haven't been there in over a year and I will get to work with my brother and sister in law.  I am excited about the change of pace and then may go and get my dd to do something fun before I go to Mardels.

Praying for our local students tomorrow and my precious girl who will be taking their 2nd LBA in Reading tomorrow.  I would be happy if Dem passed but am always hopeful that she does well so that she can buld her confidence this year.  (she struggles with reading all year and then does well on her TAKS which we don't have any more replaced with STARR test....I know she can do it with God at her side!!)

Have a terrific Thursday friends and we will see you tomorrow,

xoxoxo
Diana

151. A day off to care for my angel...

153.  A glowing fire from the gas fireplace and logs

154.  Hoodie Sweatshirts on a cold and damp night

155.  Open communication with my 11 year old daughter

These are the last entries in my 1000 gifts journal that I have started while reading the One Thousands Gifts by Voskamp.  Love the book and it's message.

I hope to finish God's Guest List by Debbie Macomber tonight. 

Have I mentioned lately that I love working at Mardel, a christian and teacher store here in Hurst.  I am so blessed to have been hired and if I have to work a 2nd job that it be here where all our guests are sweet and loving.  They have the best products and prices on so many things from books, framed arts, gifts which iclude arts and crafts  and seasonal items.  I leave there with my cup running over most nights and that is after working another job all day.

So I am going to be starting another blog to soon so stay tuned.....I am so excited about what it is all about and this season in my life.

Hope you know how much you are loved and that YOU MATTER in God's Plan...kiss and hug those you love and care about and I pray that you can find beauty in the simple things in your life.

xoxoxo
BiT  

Blessed.Beyond.Belief

Feeling so blessed today!

Hoping everyone has a wonderful and happy Monday today.

Watching my two neices, Bella Rose and Brylee Grace this morning and was remembering the wonderful bonding moments I had with my baby 11 years ago....waking up to smiles while cherishing the many bonding moments while she nursed and cuddled.  I am always amazed at the beauty God has created in these intimate moments as well as the beginning of life and the entire journey of 9 months in the womb. 

Today I am grateful for my family and the wonderful memories I have with my siblings while growing up; and as adults.  I love and cherish my two sisters more than ever now that I am a mom and they are too!  I love my brother but the bonding iwth him is different although as growing up only 13 months apart we were much closer and shared many more things together and with our mutual friends and sports. 

I am going to start my "One Thousand Gifts" journal today with hopes to capture in writing everything that I am thankful for and cherish today and in my past.  One thing I have taken from Ann Voskamp's book is her vibrant and descriptive entries and it has inspired me to really think more deeply about why these things mean so much to me and why I consider them gifts I am thankful for today.

I wanted to share a blog I happened upon this weekend, Sunshine Promises and the story one woman is taking time to share with us women.  If you have time I would encourage you to stop by, you will definitely be more grateful for life and one with your children. 

It is a short week, one I am grateful for and although I am off from school starting on Wednesday I am curious to see how working in retail this holiday season will be for sure.  I love working at Mardel, a christian and teacher store here in Hurst, Texas for many reasons but I am not sure what to expect on Black Friday.  Heck I don't even shop on that day myself but I know God has placed me at this new job for many reasons so I am going to have fun and enjoy it!!

MADE with love, Make a Difference With Love today.....be the reason someone smiles today!!

xoxoxo
BiT         

"The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen." -Elizabeth Kubler Ross

So love this quote!

Have a great weekend and let those you love know it because we never know when it will be our last opportunity.  Leave the world a better place and find JOY in the simple things you have been blessed with today.   If you love to read, you might enjoy the book, One Thousand Gifts by Ann Vokamp.

xoxoxo,
BiT

11-11-11 Thankful for Veterans Today

Thankful for past. present and current Veterans and Military personnel for their service and our freedom that we enjoy everyday because of their commitments to serve our wonderful country.  To my dad who was a Vietnam Vet, my nephew Kyle Willis currently serving in the Navy and to my cousin Daren McCulley also a pilot in the Navy, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done and continue to do for all of us!!  Also thank you to Matt Mullins who serves in the US Army and is the dad to Alyssa, Demi's best friend. Thank you Matt and so happy you are finally home from the war.

xoxoxo
Diana

Every Child Matters

I hope you will feel encouraged to make an ordinary day into an extraordinary day by being the hands, feet and mouth for Jesus today.  Today I heard the story of Jimmy Graham, the Tight End for New Orleans and it really brought home what I see often with our children.  He never felt like he mattered until a woman adopted him.  I am not saying you have to adopt a child but reach out to those you know may be struggling, become a BIG SISTER to a child, sponsor a child through a school and or volunteer at a local kids club all run by donations. 

My 1st challenge to you this week if for you to find an opportunity for a RANDOM ACT of KINDNESS with a child. 

My 2nd challenge is to find an opportunity for a RANDOM ACT of KINDNESS with an adult or family in your area.

Let's love a little more and be more compassionate with those we encounter.  I know if we did this along with being the feet, hands and mouth for Jesus that our world would be a better place to live.  Let's shoot to Out Live Our Own Lives by making a difference today and this week.

Have a wonderful evening as I continue to enjoy
 the COWBOY game, the RANGERS and a TIM TEBOW win today.  Have I mentioned how much I love SONdays and Texas and this life that God has given me.  I DO!!!

xoxoxo
Diana 

New Blog,,,

I am so excited to have found this blog and website today....check it out!!

http://www.mycraftchannelblog.com/

I will be back to blog some tomorrow with a recap on life and the latest of God's blessings!!

xoxoxoxo

Diana 

Starting A New Chapter and Some Thought Provoking Questions.....

I am excited to say that I am starting a new chapter this week  with  http://www.babycominghome.com/ and am inspired by wonderful women again!

Demi should be coming home this week too so hopefully life will get back to some normalcy if there is such a thing.  I have missed her and the life we have but am so happy that she has had this time with her dad's family!  She is at South Padre and doing something today with her Aunt RaRa and Uncle Nick..can't wait to hear because it is a surprise since they are all lobsters today from being at the beach all day yesterday!!

Today I am going to be thankful for the difficult times and the time I have had to grow and learn.  That is an on-going process and daily thing.  I am really trying to learn to give total control over of my life for His purposes but it can be somewhat difficult at times.  I also need to learn to REST IN THE STORMS which is also not very easy to do without feeling the guilt and with my Type A personality.  I am sure some of you can relate to this as well.  

I want to ask you some questions today to get you thinking outside the box. 

If you knew a friend needed help with such things as food, gas, a hug and some encouragement would you be the first to jump in line to help?  If you have been in these shoes, have you been able to ask for help?  What does it take for you to see for you to want to step up to help or offer up a random act of kindness?  Do you ever feel compelled to step out of your comfort zone to see the world from a new set of eyes?  If not why not?  What lessons in life have you learned the hard way?  Do you live with regrets?  Do you let your circumstances define you and or are you willing to step up and make a difference by the way you live or with how your respond to these situations?    Do you feel blessed or wonder why life keeps throwing these curve balls your way?  Do you get up and go through the motions or do you really feel with your heart?  When you say you love someone, do you mean it?  Do you show those in your life that you are grateful by doing special things for them?  Do you ever get on your knees to pray?  Do you have friends who keep you accountable?  Does your life make a difference?  When you leave this world is it a better place?  What kind of legacy are you leaving for your children and family?  Do you inspire those around you to become better and make a mark in the places they have been?  Do those who have helped you become who you are know who thankful you are that they were in your life?  Do you live everyday as if it is your last?  Does your life have more importance because of what you have material wise?  If you were penniliess, how would you get by?  What is happiness to you?  Do you have a bucket list and if so what is on it?  Are you brave?  Are you a HERO?  Can you do more today?  Is today enough for you?  If today was your last day on earth, what would you do, who would you contact and what would be your last words? 

Aren't these some really good questions to make you think today?  

I hope you  make it a great Saturday and that you enjoy what comes your way...love your kids and make sure they know how special they are...and be thankful for your life <3.

**I set up some FREE SHOPPING over at Formly SISters on FB if you want to get inspired and have some scrappy fun today!!  I am as soon as I get the car washed and some house cleaning/laundry done!!**

xoxoxo

BiT 

Missing My Lil Dragonfly....

My sweet daughter has been gone for almost 3 weeks with one day home in between three stops...oh I miss her!!

I have to say that I am so thankful I have not had to share her all these years during the summer and holidays but am filled with joy and happiness knowing how much she is having this summer.  She went to church camp for 5 days and then to her BFF's that she has had since she was one and then she has gone to San Antonio to spend time with her dad's family.  Did I mention that when she left here to go to Kenz's house, she left her suitcase here.  So she had 2 pair of shoes and a pair of shorts and her cell phone.  Hasn't bothered her a bit?  We can learn so much from children and their outlook on life. 

Demi spent the weekend at Horsehoe Bay jet skiing and tubing which was a first.  She had a blast!  I wish I was there and hate missing firsts but I know it is not possible to be with her 24/7.  This week she leaves for South Padre Island for the weekend.  Then when she comes back she is off to her dads for a week.  I think this is going to be her summers and mine for the years to come, I am just praying there will be a visit in between all the trips and visits.  So blessed that her dads family is so awesome and that she loves them dearly.  And they are fun to boot.

Hoping I can make another 2 weeks without her, any advice?? It has truly been a blessing having Bry here but I am not sure if I don't get a job what I will do....it might be different if I had the money to do things so I need to be creative in that area.    

Anyway have a great Tuesday and I will be back tomorrow to post a 2 page layout with some sewing and lots of color.  I will also be posting my thankful thread so fill free to leave me a link to your blog should you decide to join me!!

Hugs from hot Texas,
BiT

xoxoxoxo      

Scattered Seeds and Fnding Your Passion

Good Morning!  I hope you had a wonderful weekend.  I had the most wonderful weekend full of blessings and I am so grateful for so many things starting with family .  I am an aunt again for the 13th time to my sweet tiny niece Bella Rose who was born on July 15th at 5lbs 5ozs.  Babies are definitely God's big miracles of life in tiny packages in every way.  So happy and proud of my baby sister.  I have had the best 5 days with my niece Brylee while they have been in the hospital. Above is a picture of Brylee and Bella.  Brylee is so full of love and is a 2 year old full of wit beyond her years. 

So this weekend I was thrilled to have been invited to Formly SISters on Facebook.  It was so much fun to see so many old friends from the SIS days.  Miss SIStv for many reasons but the main one is because there are so many wonderful, fun, giving and creative women making a positive difference in the world all in one place. 

Has anyone ever started a non-profit?  If so I need some advice as to how to get started?  I have had this idea for a while now and I am ready to do something about it this week.  That is what my post title Scattered Seeds is all about today.  I am passionate about wanting to make a difference in the world we live in ONE FAMILY AT A TIME.  I will elaborate more but in a nutshell I am hoping to start and organzation that will be about scattering seeds of hope, kindness, and love to those we encounter in our lives and also about getting our children involved in making a difference in the world today.  Hoping that families will take the initiative to do this together and to make the time to randomly or deliberately performs acts that will not only change the lives of those they help but change their lives in a positive manner bringing HAPPINESS to everyone involved in each act.  It is my dream to bring JOY to others and to show God's LOVE in ways that only He can create and to LOVE OUR NEIGHBORS starting today.  Wouldn't the world be a better place if we all did one thing today to start a random act of kindness and the chain kept going....reaching millions by taking seconds to think of someone else.  What can you do today?  What can you do with your children today?  What needs do you have in your communities and schools?  Summer is a wonderful time to get involved and when your kids are bored you can make it a point for a RAK Random Act of Kindness) or RAL (Randon Act of LOVE). 

Here are a few ideas for today:
1.  Check with your city and local nursing homes for needs.....the elderly love children.
2.. Check your local non profits to see what needs they may have such as the soup kitchens, homeless shelters, boys and girls clubs, american red cross and or others you may be aware of...
3.   Ask your local church about needs in your community or families within your church.
4.   If you know someone has been struggling maybe you can drop a gas card or target card in their mailbox either randomly or deliberately.
5.   With the heat wave in the US, treat your local city workers and friends to cold drinks and snacks...this is one of my daughters favorite things to do.
6.    Have your children create cards with encouraging notes and drop in mailboxes...sayings such as "You are loved", Life will get better, Find time to enjoy the simple things in life, Live Laugh and Love...be creative and let your children exhibit love the way they do so easily.
7.   Create a 12x12 page or a mini book for a friend, neighbor or complete stranger because you can and just because you love this hobby.  You can always create cards and buy stamps to give as a gift for someone...maybe a college student leaving soon.
8.   Visit or volunteer at a local hospital or clinic holding art camps for children being treating for cancer, diabetes or at a place that is dear to your heart.  You can always create little fun packs to leave there or make knitted hats for those going through chemo.
9.    Bake some goods for a sick friend and or neighbor.
10.  Hand write a letter..there is something still so special about receiving a handwritten note of love and thoughtfulness.
11.   Check with your schools now for upcoming needs for the school year.  One thing that is done for teachers and students where I worked was monthly treat bags with candies, cooked goods, coupons and gift certifcates in decorated bags.... food for children all donated by a local church and women.   It is possible you can help one child with supplies.

Remember you can do this alone or ask other families/groups to join you in your efforts depending on what you want to do and accomplish.  Be creative, have fun and remember you are making a difference with your act regardless of how small or big.  It all starts with you and one family.   

There are so many wonderful things you can do and I hope you can find or make the time to join me in this endeavor and dream of mine.  I am hoping that in a world that embraces "all about me" that I instill in my daughter and those around me that it is so much better to give than receive and that even our children can change this world we live now and for generations to come.        

Thanks for stopping by today and for any comments you share.  Please feel free to share any ideas of RAKS or RALS and where you did these. 

Make it a great Monday and hugs those you love,
BiT

The Best Medicine Available....

Happy Monday friends!! 

What is this medicine that I am talking about? 


I am currently reading another book written by Joyce Meyers called "I Dare You".  This is a wonderful and enlightening book.  She mentions many remedies to help you get going and to live the life you were meant to live.  She also says that fun and laughter bring restoration and rest to the soul. 

So my daughter are going to have a stay vacation of sorts while grandma is away.  We pray that she has a great trip visiting with my sister and her family in NC.  While she is away we hope to relax and enjoy our home.  My mom is a little OCD when it comes to house cleaning, vacuuming and doing laundry and because of that makes it a little hard at times just to sit and enjoy our home.  Do you know anyone like this that spends so much time worrying about the order of things that they don't enjoy what they truly have...I don't understand it but do understand the need to control life. 

Which brings me to another story that I have been thinking about often.  Like my mom, I believe her generation has been hit very hard with the economic issues of security and work.  At 68 my mom lost her job of 31 years.  Talk about life changing and not in a good way.  While in a whataburger last week, I saw a woman who was probably 75 years old.  I felt bad for her and thought this is not the life she probably envisioned for herself.  While I admired her too and my mom for finding work at half the pay and the type of work much harder than it should be.  My mom and this woman are just too of millions and it made me want to talk with her about her personal story.  I have often said and believe that behind every face is a great story and I often think how I would like to bring this to light and share these stories. 

I really do think as a nation, community and individuals that we need to be more sensitive to others and to love our neighbors.  That when we see someone in pain to reach out to them in a way that you are comfortable with....just letting others know that you care could be enough to change the course of someone else's day. 

Why does there have to be so much pain and heartache in the world we live in?  Is this all life has to offer?  As difficult and challengin as life can be and be seen, we are blessed and have to remember those things and be thankful each day we get.  This is coming from someone who understands and is walking by faith.

What is "walking by faith"?  This is trusting in our heavenly father that his plans for our future are best and with his partnership we will be better than we could ever dream or imagine.  Somedays this is harder to do because we are human and we let our feelings get the best of us.  

So two things, what are you thankful for today and what makes you smile and laugh?

I am thankful for:
1.  The gift of life today
2.  My family and friends
3.  My mom going on a vacation to visit my sister.  I am excited for my sister that she will get this time. 
4.  That my clear air card is working today, in this spot and now :-)!
5.  Having a roof over our heads and AC.
6.  DP and caffeine
7.  Rest
8.  Spiritual Refreshment
9.  *Purex Softner Grains* - this is my new great product...if you haven't used it, you have to try it.  If you love great smelling laundry.  You can buy this at the dollar store for 4.00 and print a 1.00 coupon on their FB site.  (It is 5.99 at Walgreens but it is a much better deal the other way) 
10.Prayer, Answered Prayers and quiet time to read....I love reading and enjoyed reading to Demi last night .  Love having "us" time and spending quality time each day.

Things that make me laugh....
1.  My Dem....her laugh makes me laugh and her view on life...
2.  A good comedy show which I haven't been to in a very long time....
3.  You tube videos that we have seen...I think i will be heading over there today bcause I dont laugh enough these days and if you want to see some funny ones, you can look up Bon qui qui....she has the King Burger and the Nail Salon videos.
4.  My 2 yr old niece..she says the funniest things!!
5.  A good game of ping pong with my police officer friends....
*I am sad to admit that I had to think about what makes me laugh and I realize that I need to incorporate more fun and laugher in my life today, NOW!   No more focusing on the things I can't control and more time spenton doing what I can to change that....whether it is volunteering or coninuing to fill out applications then I will do that all while finding time to enjoy the simple things in life.  Wanna join me?

Did I mention that I actually made the time to scrap this weekend?  I love my 2pager that I created and will be back to show you the completed pages once I put on the pictures.  I am also creating a page today called "Dream Catcher" and will show it as well.  I am going to try to be published this year in a magazine, completing one things on my bucket list.  Do you have a bucket list?

Have a magnificant Monday and remember to tell those you love that you do......and ......find time to love your neighbors and make someone else's day better.  I love just thinking of how Demi and I can do that...maybe it will be sweet in mailboxes today....I am going to look at non profit groups in our areas to see if there is something out of our norm that we can participate in this week. 

xoxoxoxo
BiT   

Happy 11th Birthday Demi "dungbeetle"!!

What an amazing birthday week it has been for you!  This year I decided to give a gift a day to celebrate your "birthday week" which just added to the thrill of turning another year older.  Let's just say you have enjoyed it so far....with a few days to go.  Oh by the way, my niece and Demi's cousin have nicknamed her dungbeetle...isn't that funny?

It has definitely been a very busy and fun week starting with PALS camp with our Hurst Police Dept starting on Monday.  They do such a terrific job for 60 children in our local elementaries with games, swimming, team building, putt putt and a movie, this year the movie was Kung Fu.  It is all for free too!  For some of these kids if not all would not be able to attend a camp or week of fun like this without our police, vendors who donate time and food.  We live in such a wonderful and giving community with loving and caring volunteers and officers.  I was lucky enough to be able to be a mentor taking photos week along with spending time with my daughter and my brother who is a Police Officer with the city.   (If I can get my clear card to stay on long enough I will upload pictures.  I must say that if I could do this for a living I would.....I love it!

So this weekend is Demi's best friends last weekend here in town for another year.  Alyssa's dad is due back from war in Afghanistan in about 2 months so they are on their way back to KY.  It has been an incredible year for them both in 5th grade.  I am hoping and praying that Demi can stay busy until she returns.  She was gone th eyear before and it seemed like the longest year.  HOpefully with club cheer and tumbling and 6th grade work, she will have enough to keep her mind focused on what is at hand and maybe she will meet some friends along this year.

Wishing my angel another wonderful and amazing year at 11.  Here is to happiness, joy, peace, grace, forgiveness, fun and many more amazing memories to enjoy for years to come.  I love you so much and am excited to see what this brings for you and our family.  Thanks for being the angel you are and for being so easy going.  You make life so worth living and me so grateful for you and our continued blessings together as a family.  Muah.......xoxoxo


  

Dallas Mavericks - NBA Champions

Congrats to our MAVS tonight!  What an unbelievable series against the Miami Heat. 

How exciting that Dallas has finally won their 1st NBA Championship after 31 years since becoming a franchise!!!!  Way to go Mavs and congrats to all the players, coaches and owners.   I must say we have the best fans ever too supporting them every step of the way.

I hope they enjoy this for the weeks to come in a safe and good way.  Now we must start cheering on our Texas Rangers.  And then it will be time for our Dallas Cowboys. 

xoxoxo

Go MAVS!!!

It has been a wonderful weekend.

Today here in the DFW area, it is all about our MAVS.  With 6:46 to go, the game is looking great.  With a win, we win it ALL tonight but they must hang on for a little while longer.  The thing with basketball, it all comes down to the last shot and it seems the last 1 minute of the game lasts one hour...hehe.

I am excited about this week.  It is my sweet angel's 11th birthday.  It is hard to believe it has been 11 years already.  She has been such a blessing and the last 11 years have been so much fun and amazing.  So this years theme,  yes you guessed, Justin Beiber, Beiber fever.....and many more wonderful memories.  I can't wait to see what the next 11 years bring. 

Demi also has the Police Pals camp here in town thanks to my brother.  She will get to do this with her cousin Cami whom she loves dearly.  One of the best parts is that it is free and from someone who is still struggling financially, I really do appreciate all the police and city do for our kids and children.  They will have another basketball camp too.

So tomorrow I will be posting a few projects I have created and will show you some of Demi's scrapbook that she made for SS and her state of New Hampshire.  Until then, enjoy your evening and remember this week to love your neighbors <3.

xoxoxo
BiT  

Love Lazy Summer Days and Fridays.....

I love Fridays and the start of the weekend.  Today was one of those days when I stayed in my pjs and read thruughout watching FL vs Casey Anthony.  (Why do women often feel guilty doing this or taking a day off from the normal routine of cleaning, laundry or basic errands?  Why don't we give ourselves permission to do this more often?) I am fascinated with the case and the science they disclosed this week.  Afterall I did get my minor in college in Poli Sci because of my interest in law.  Somedays I think I should have chosen that career path.   So what do you think about the case?  Are you following the tv shows?  I have to admit I often think "who would or could do this to a 2 yr old precious child of God"?  It makes no sense to me and I pray for her parents daily.  I cannot imagine walking in their shoes and pray that God will wrap his loving and healing arms around them both and her brother.  It is just SAD and heartbreaking to see all this unfold.

So tomorrow it will be a full day of fun and sun.  Swimming in the early morning before it reaches 100 degrees and then we are off to see Judy Moody's new movie.  I love children's movies!  Then I am going to scrap the day away for the first time in months.  I am going to join in some challenges on some blogs that I enjoy reading daily/weekly.  If you know of any good blogs and or books to read please feel free to pass them along. 

I will leave you with a summary of my reading today from The Relationship Principles of Jesus:  It's often in what seems to be the lowest spot that we find life's greatest blessings.  The richest relationships, the purest joys, the most profound influences are often found when we are out of the limelight and feel free to simply love and serve.  Isn't this amazing and so true?

Have a wonderful weekend and remember to hugs those you love.  Try to find time for random acts of kindness and love.  These opportunities are everywhere if you will open your eyes and heart.

xoxoxo
Diana    

This Makes Me Smile....

I really hope you had a great Tuesday.  So today Demi and I started our day with  "A Taste of Demi's State, New Hampshire" and having to cook her "American Toast".  Her entire 5th grade each brought a dish from their state and I have to say, they did a great job!  There was so much food and a wonderful variety from three classes.  She really does have wonderful teachers this year!  We have been blessed to have had really awesome teachers since she started school back in 2004.  Now she has to make a scrapbook of her state which will be due in a couple of weeks.

I wanted to blog about a few things that I love and enjoy on this Tuesday with a thankful heart:

1.  Great smelling laundry
2.  Clean teeth and fresh breath
3.  Demi back in cheer because she loves it so much
4.  Being an aunt
5.  Teaching and being a tutor (love my sweet friends that I have been blessed to work with over the last 3 months)
6.  Sunshine
7.  Prayer time
8.  Alone time
9   That Demi passed all her TAKS this year after a rough start, so proud of her!
10.Today and the gift of life!!

When I start to think about what makes me happy, so many things come to mind.  I may end up posting a couple of pics.  I will be back shortly with something else that brings me JOY to share with you.

**Demi and her best friend Alyssa at their 5th grade ballroom dance**

**Demi and her dance partner, Adam Tice**

**Demi and her future husband, RJ whom we just love and have known since birth!** 

Again thanks so much for stopping by my blog.  It means the world to me and in return I love going to your blogs just as much!!

xoxoxo
BiT   

Finding JOY and HAPPINESS in the every day things in our life....

Yesterday I visited Rita at http://www.letsembellish.blogspot.com/ and she had a beautiful picture of her view going home which has inspired me to post photos of things and people that bring me JOY and HAPPINESS in my every day life.

May 1st - This is a picture of my mom and my daughter, love them both and so happy that we got to spend Easter with her and our family celebrating the resurrection of Jesus.

May 2nd - these beautiful girls inside and out bring us all lots of happiness!!

So what or who brings you JOY?  If you decide to join me this month please let me know so that I can venture over to your blog to enjoy your pictures.

Have a wonderful Tuesday and remember tomorrow is National Teacher Appreciation Day so tomorrow would be a perfect day for a RANDOM or DELIBERATE Act of Kindness for one or all of those special teachers in your life.  

xoxoxo

BiT