A Wonderful Year

Hello Dear Readers!

I am continually amazed at how quickly this year has passed, but so thankful for the many blessings {both big and small} that the Lord has given to me and my family. As 2011 is approaching us, I have set a few goals that I would like to complete. It seems as though I do this every year, and use the excuse of being too busy. I have to come to realize that the more busy you are, the less productive you become.

Some of the things that have been pressing on my heart to do more of include…

• Reading my Bible more often~ God’s Word is full of so much knowledge, and I know that I can always use that in my life. What a difference His guidance makes in a person’s life.

• Helping around the house more often~ My dear mother can always use some help, whether it’s cleaning, cooking, or watching sweet little Jessa. I am so thankful to have a mother who can teach me all about homemaking in preparation for my future.

• Reach others to our Savior, Jesus Christ~ What a need there is these days to teach the people of this world about Jesus. There are so many ways to spread the good news of Jesus to those who need the encouragement.

• Stay positive throughout everyday life~ It is sometimes difficult to have a good attitude in all situations. With the Lord’s help, I know that I can conquer this struggle in life.

•Be more patient~ This is a matter that most everyone needs to work on. As for myself, I seem to get most impatient with my little sister and school. I would like to strive to be more patient in these two areas and in others as well.

• Completing more projects~ Oh, how I greatly enjoy projects, including sewing, scrapbooking, and writing. I don’t know about you, but to me, the best part of a project is completing it… The feeling of completion is so wonderful and at that point, you can acknowledge what you have accomplished.

• Enrichment of literature~ A good book along with a hot cup of tea is so delightful. Just through reading good books enriched with knowledge, my vocabulary certainly progresses.

And most importantly…

• Growing in my walk with the Lord~ Our relationship with God is most important in life. He is full of love, and has His arms wrapped tightly around each and every individual on this earth. By praying to God, reading His Word, and listening to His commands, my spiritual life will grow indeed.

As we enter into a new year, let us all strive to make a difference in the world, whether it’s by doing something big or small.

May the Lord bless you and your family in 2011!

Your Sister In Christ,

Jenna

Merry Christmas

Dearest Friends,

I pray that your Christmas has been richly blessed with the Lord’s immense love! May the joy of this season brighten your family’s homestead, and may you remember our precious Savior’s birth throughout the whole year.

“And the angel said unto them, fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.”

~Luke 2:10-11~

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”

~Isaiah 9:6~

Three Wonderful Years!

 Three years ago, on December 10th, 2007, we met our sweet Jessa for the very first time… As we walked out of the elevator, excitement and joy entered our hearts. There she was at 15 months old, looking a bit confused, as she stared into our eyes. The nanny handed her over to my mama, and Jessa let out a little whimper. Mama began to comfort her, and the small whimper came to a stop. From that moment on, all she wanted to do was cling to my mama’s shoulder.

Our adoption experience was incredible, and I am so thankful to God, that He directed our steps throughout the whole process.

Jessa is a bundle of joy, and a sweet blessing to have. She keeps our homestead jolly and cheerful, and always brings a smile to your face!

 

We love you, dear Jessa! May God continue to bless you with that beautiful, shining spirit He has gifted you with!

A Sweet Blessing

“Children are a heritage from the Lord.”

~Psalm 127:3~

Happy Thanksgiving!

~Happy Thanksgiving~

For flowers that bloom about your feet;

For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;

For song of bird, and hum of bee;

For all things fair we hear or see;

Father in Heaven, we thank Thee!

~Ralph Waldo Emerson~

Happy Thanksgiving, Dear Friends!

Thankfulness

“ Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift. ” 

~ 2 Corinthians 9:15 ~

Thanksgiving Day is approaching, and I am looking forward to the wonderful time planned with family. I am thankful for so many things, although there is one thing I am immensely grateful for… That is Jesus Christ, God’s indescribable gift to all of us. Words cannot begin to describe how much He did for us, and how much He loves us. This Thanksgiving (and everyday), remember to express gratitude towards God and those who surround you… Have a merry and cheerful heart, one that shines the love of Christ!

21 Blessed Years

Today is my parent’s 21st Wedding Anniversary. My heart fills with joy as I think of the beautiful love they have for each other.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

~~~

Daddy and Mama,

The Lord has blessed you with 21 beautiful years of marriage. The incredible love you have for each other shines throughout you, and it is a blessing to see. May the Lord continue to strengthen your marriage, and may He bless you with many more joyful years!

With Much Love,

Jenna

Dress Pattern

Thank you so much, dear friends, for all the thoughtful comments on the Feelin’ Feminine posts! I had a delightful time participating!

Some of you were wondering which pattern I used to sew the dress I wore on Day Seven… I used New Look 6910, which is a Simplicity pattern. Here is a link to the pattern online:

New Look 6910

I made dress D and also lengthened the bottom a little bit, due to my height! I’m sure you can find it in most sewing/fabric stores… I purchased the pattern from Jo-Ann Fabrics. Please let me know if you have any other questions! May the Lord bless you, dear friends!

Your Sister In Christ,

Jenna

To My Sweet Father…

Dearest Daddy,

I would like to wish you a wonderful and blessed birthday. I am so thankful to have you as my father, and I cherish every moment of time we spend together! You are a kind, gentle, and godly man, and I thank you for the guidance you have given me in my life. May the Lord continue to bless you immensely, and lead you on His path. I love you with all of my heart…

~Jenna~

~Beauty~

How many are your works, O Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.

There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number – living things both large and small.

~Psalm 104:24-25~

A Lovely Little Lady…

…Sweet…

…Gentle…

…Loving…

…My Baby Sister…

Delightful Dishes

I would like to share a few delicious dishes with you today. I always enjoy sharing our recipes with others!

~Chicken Noodle Soup~

{A crock pot chicken noodle soup recipe}
Source: Internet

Ingredients:

• 2½ to 3½ pounds chicken pieces
• 4 cups water
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste, depending on saltiness of broth
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 leek or small onion chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• ¼ cup parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram or basil
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 ounces noodles

Preparation:
Place all ingredients except noodles in the Crock Pot. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours. Remove chicken and bay leaf from pot; take meat from bones, dice and return to broth, and add the noodles. Cook another hour or until noodles are done (about 1/2 hour on high). Or, cook the noodles separately and add them just before serving. Enjoy!


~Drop Biscuits~
Source: A Beka Family / Consumer Sciences
Yield: 1 dozen

Ingredients:

• 2 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons sugar
• ½ cup cold butter
• 1 cup buttermilk

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°.
2. Grease baking sheet with shortening.
3. Combine dry ingredients.
4. Cut butter into dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Gently stir buttermilk into flour mixture just until moistened.
6. Scoop ¼ cupfuls 2" apart onto baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.


~Ranch Turkey Roll-Ups~
Source: my aunt
Yield: 30 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 (8 ounce) package regular cream cheese, softened
• 1 (8 ounce) package chive and onion cream cheese, softened
• 1 (1 ounce) package ranch salad dressing mix
• 11 (8 inch) flour tortillas
• 22 thin slices deli turkey (or ham)

Directions:

1. In a small mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and salad dressing mix until smooth. Spread about 3 tablespoons over each tortilla; top each with two turkey slices.
2. Roll up tightly and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate until firm. Unwrap and cut into 3/4-inch slices.


~Spinach Salad with Strawberries and Pecans~
Source: my aunt
Yield: 4 to 6

Ingredients:

~Salad~
• 8 ounces fresh torn spinach or baby spinach
• 1½ to 2 cups cleaned and sliced strawberries
• ½ cup pecan halves or pieces, lightly toasted
• 2 to 3 ounces goat cheese or blue cheese, crumbled (optional)

~Dressing~
• ¼ cup Canola oil or other salad oil 
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon dried tarragon
• 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/8 garlic powder
• dash dry mustard

Directions:

1. Toss spinach with sliced strawberries, pecans, and cheese, if using.
2. Combine dressing ingredients in a jar; shake until well blended. When ready to serve, drizzle dressing over the salad and toss lightly.


These are four of my favorite dishes that we've made recently. Please let me know if you try any of them! I would love to know if your family enjoyed them!
Well, I had better go and start preparing the "Spinach Salad with Strawberries and Pecans" for dinner!
May the Lord bless you and your family. Thank you so much for visiting!

A Thought for the Day

"Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

~1 Timothy 4:12~

"Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them."

~Ecclesiastes 12:1~

Both of these verses have been on my mind recently. Each year, as I turn another year older, I wonder what God has planned for my life. I continue to trust in Him and seek His name more each day. I know that whatever the future holds for my life will be directed by the LORD...

"A man's heart deviseth his ways: but the LORD directeth his steps."

~Proverbs 16:9~

"The LORD shall guide thee continually..."

~Isaiah 58:11~

I am so thankful to God for taking care of me, and loving me. I shall completely trust in Him during this season of my life, and I pray that you will as well!

**A few new recipes soon to come**

God's Beautiful Creation

Today, I enjoyed a short amount of time outdoors with my camera, admiring God and His artwork. It is always such a blessing to be able to roam around our property, taking pictures of the many beautiful creations of God! Here are some of the photographs I captured on this lovely Wednesday...



Playing around with Self Timer...

Love and Blessings,

Jenna

Encouragement For The Day

"For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope."

~Romans 15:4~

I am so thankful for the knowledge that God has given us through His Word! May He continue to bless you!

Happy Birthday Papa!

It is my dear grandfather's birthday today!

Dearest Papa,

May the Lord bless you on your special day! I love you with all of my heart, and I am so thankful to have such a wonderful grandfather! You are a great husband, father, and grandfather, and I thank you for the happiness you have given me in my life!

I wish you many more happy years, Papa!

Love,

Jenna

Autumn Has Arrived

Oh, I am so thankful for Autumn...

The cool and crisp air and the change of color in the leaves.

The birds are chirping and singing in the trees, and the squirrels are scampering on the fence posts.

Oh, Autumn is such a wonderful season! I love the brilliant color that God gives us in Autumn...

May the Lord bless you and your family during this new season!

Your Sister In Christ,

Important!! Homeschool Get-Together THIS Afternoon!!

Hello Dear Friends!

Eden, from Growing In Him, has changed the time frame for the Skype get together to today! I hope you all can make it! :)

You can find the time below...

You're invited to the Homeschool Girls Get-Together! We will be discussing how we as young ladies can use our time wisely to help our home and Christ's church.

When?

Thursday, September 16th at 4pm EDT (3pm CDT, 2pm MDT & 1pm PDT)

Where? On Skype

What: Homeschool Get-Together

Who's Invited? Christian, homeschooled girls age 13-20

How to Join? Send Eden an email here: http://kontactr.com/user/Eden. Put "Homeschool Girls Get Together" in the subject line and include your Skype username.

{For those of you who don't know what Skype is... It's a chat program very similar to Google Talk, Windows Live Messenger, and Yahoo Messenger. You do not need a web camera or a microphone to use Skype, and you can download it for free by going to http://www.skype.com/.}

 

 

 

Many Blessings,

 

School Project!

I am blessed with "Total Language Plus" curriculum for my English course, and I am in the midst of reading Anne Of Green Gables! Oh, what a wonderful book! Today, I completed a project, and I wanted to share it with you. The question I had to answer was:

“Whom do you know that you would describe remarkable? Why do you believe (s)he is exceptional?”

Here is what I wrote...

re•mark•a•ble

1. Worthy of notice.

2. Extraordinary; uncommon.

“Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.”

~Proverbs 31:10~

As I read the question I was to answer in my English, I knew immediately who I was going to write about…

“Whom do you know that you would describe remarkable? Why do you believe (s)he is exceptional?”

As I pondered this question, I thought of one special person who has affected my life drastically… My dear mother! She is beyond remarkable, and I feel so blessed to be one of her children. She is a precious treasure in this world, a woman who is very uncommon to find. She spends her time teaching her children at home, so that they may reach their highest goals. She honors her husband, no matter what, and supports him with her whole heart. Most importantly, her love for God shines throughout her, like a coruscation of light. Her deportment is sweet and caring, and she is ingratiatingly officious. All in all, she is a true personage in my life! Thank you, mama, for everything you do, and always know that you are a remarkable woman in my eyes! You will always be loved by a myriad of people because of your good deeds and your kindness!

Something To Think About...

I love what Romans 12:2 says in God’s Word…

“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

As I ponder this verse, I think of God’s plan for my life. Even though I am not able to know God’s plan for my future during this season of my life, He still knows it. It is so encouraging to know that I don’t have to worry about what the future holds, because God already holds it in His precious and loving hands! He knows where I am going to be in 30 years. He has already formed and shaped my adulthood… He has perfected each one of our lives, so don’t be discouraged through hard moments! God knows of every difficult time, and also of every wonderful moment! He has orchestrated each of our lives. We are all a different and amazing work of art, created by the Master Designer!

Fun At The Beach!

In celebration of my little sister's 4th birthday, we went to the beach! We had a wonderful time, and most importantly, sweet Jessa enjoyed herself!

I brought my camera along with me, and took many pictures while there...

The Lord's creation is so beautiful!

...Holding a conversation! :)

The time of relaxation was so nice!

All in all, Jessa had a wonderful and fun-filled birthday! At the end of the day, she opened a few gifts and enjoyed eating her cake...

... Made by me and my dear mother!

(It was our first time making an eight layer castle cake!)

Thank you all for the sweet comments, wishing my sister a happy birthday! She definitely had a wonderful day!

Oh, how I've been aching for Autumn and it's brilliant splash of color to come! For now, I must be thankful to the Lord for this 90 degree weather! :)

Have a blessed day, filled with the Lord's abundant blessings! Always remember to shine your light for His glory!

Your Sister In Christ,

Happy Birthday, Jessa!

Sweet Jessa,

Thank you for the vast amount of joy you have given me. I feel so blessed to be your big sister. Your darling hugs and kisses just melt my heart. I am so thankful to have a little sister like you!

Thank you for all the wonderful moments you have shared with our family. Your sweet humor always makes me laugh...

I am so glad that God has allowed you to come in to our lives and be a part of our family. You have been a true blessing (and cutie!) ever since we brought you home from China...

Words cannot describe how blessed our family truly is.

You are a loving, humorous, kind, and sweet girl, Jessa!

May the Lord guide you on His perfect path throughout your life... I know that He has wonderful plans for you, dear!

I Love You,

Jenna