Living Grenier

Steppin' on toes, my own as well...

2011-01-16T16:12:00.000-08:00

The last couple of months I've had many of these thoughts percolating... These seemed to all spill out when I was at a youth conference (Mark Matlock's Planet Wisdom) with our youth group. I scribbled frantically in any spare space in my conference notebook trying to get what has been burdening my heart out on paper. While although I haven't blogged in a year and a half, I was compelled to try to capture my thoughts.

Loving and ministering to people is messy.

People are messy.

We, the church, need to love people even in the mess, despite the mess... love them where they are - mess and all...

Are we accepting / welcoming people into our family as the people they are currently, or are we expecting / demanding them to clean up first, meet certain standards; or get left out?

We need to meet people with open arms where they are, as they are.

Are we willing to open the doors, open our arms, open our hearts to them? Or are we preferring our own ease, our own comfort, over their uncomfortable mess?

Are we so prideful that we don't see that Jesus loves US in OUR MESS?

Are we rationalizing our pride?

Is it that we are lazy, only caring for ourselves?

Are we willing to DO LIFE TOGETHER with messy, imperfect people, or are we demanding that they leave their mess at home before they come?

Doing life together with those around us is messy!

God doesn't NEED our help to love these people! He CHOOSES us, He CALLS us... NOT only to love these people; but to CHANGE US in the process! To CONFORM us more into His image. Are we missing out because we are choosing to pursue our own comfort instead?

Are we missing out on a blessing because we don't want to get messy?

God is PASSIONATE about you! God is PASSIONATE about people - messy, quirky people.

Are we going to love them, even become passionate about them; as true followers and imitators of CHRIST? Or are we going to be comfortable?

Are we conveying that truth through our attitudes, actions, love, deeds to other people? What do others assume about God through watching how we react to them?

Are we busy being offended, or are we extending God's grace?

Are we busy arguing because we are offended, or are we busy arguing for those who are defenseless?

I love the sound and voice of John Mayer, but when I hear his song "Waiting on the World to Change", the lyrics infuriate me a little bit more each time. Now I wonder (maybe I don't want Mayer and his friends acting to change the world), but could these lyrics be about me? Could they be about CrossRidge Church? Could they be describing the apathetic American / Western / Commercialized brand of Christianity that is prevalent?

Me and all my friends
We're all misunderstood
They say we stand for nothing and
There's no way we ever could

Now we see everything that's going wrong
With the world and those who lead it
We just feel like we don't have the means
To rise above and beat it (but the Bible says we have the same power in us that raised Christ)

So we keep waiting
Waiting on the world to change
We keep on waiting
Waiting on the world to change

It's hard to beat the system
When we're standing at a distance
So we keep waiting
Waiting on the world to change

Instead of standing at a distance, we need to BE the change we want to see! Even in a small way, step out and follow God even in baby steps.

1 John 3:18 "...let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."

John 13:35 "Your love for one another will PROVE to the world that you are my disciples."

Are we proving that we are disciples of ease, comfort, selfishness? Or are we proving we are disciples of Jesus, the God who came down and got messy!?

Are we living in the very Presence of The Living God? Or are we living in our own presence?

Ephesians 5:1&2 "Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."

It all boils down to this: Who will we imitate and exalt in our lives? God or ourselves?

Just your friendly neighborhood Spiderman

2009-09-25T07:47:00.000-07:00

Caleb went to school today dressed as Spiderman for Reading is Fun Day. He really wanted to go as the indian from Indian in the Cupboard that we read together this summer... But low and behold Goodwill just didn't have an indian costume when we ran (and I mean shopping in under 5 minutes kind of ran!) in yesterday afternoon! But Caleb was quick to remind me that he actually had read a Spiderman book at one point, so I guess this costume qualifies... ;)

This morning while we were waiting for his ride in the hospital parking lot, he got out of the car and was waving at every passing vehicle and "Spiderman-ing" all over the parking lot. :) Here are a few shots I caught:

Bubba's got him some bubba teeth

2009-09-25T07:33:00.000-07:00

Justus had fun playing with Daddy's Bubba teeth...

Center Stage

2009-09-25T07:18:00.001-07:00

Caleb had his first opportunity to be in a local play at our Lake Wales Little Theatre. Finally an appropriate outlet for his (overly... did I say that out loud...) dramatic personality! ;) Sorry these pictures are grainy, they were taken with my iPhone and are really posted here for the grandparents. :)

Lessons in never say never...

2009-09-05T19:23:00.001-07:00

Today has been another lesson in "never say never"...

I don't know how I got suckered into allowing a fork-tongued, rodent-eating, slithering, writhing, serpent live in the house with us... But somehow I was outvoted 3-1... (gee, you think it is because all of the other human's living in this house are male???) And as of today, we have a new pet SNAKE!!! Yes, you read that correctly... Caleb has named him Rocky. Each boy (especially the biggest one, aka Daddy) has been overcome with excitement tonight and totally enthralled with the newest addition to our household!

First Day of 2nd Grade :)

2009-08-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

Caleb started Ms. Lamb's 2nd grade class this week.

He is sooo excited and loving every minute of his new school year!

In 2nd grade at Geneva they study Ancient Egypt,

and even mummify a chicken!

I LOVE to hear Caleb's enthusiasm every day

when I ask him about his day!

So glad that this year he's starting off on the right foot!

They are precious in His sight

2009-07-02T12:40:00.000-07:00

Justus and I were pulling weeds at my friend's house and Jus said, "I Jesus".

I said, "no, you're not Jesus, but you can pray and ask Jesus if you can be like Him."

We pulled a few more weeds and Jus looked up at me and said, "Jesus say yes." :)

Gone Fishin'

2009-05-31T13:13:00.000-07:00

My friends invited us to go to Cabela's (an outdoorsy store) and then go fishing off the dock. The store has so many amazing stuffed real animals: zebra, lions, tons of various deer, and even an elephant!!! They also have a large fish tank indoors and a stocked pond outdoors - which is where we went fishing afterwards.

Justus caught his first fish!

He's pretty proud of his catch!

Mr. Joey helping Caleb catch his fish

Fishin' Buddies showing off their catch

Down on the Farm

2009-05-05T20:49:00.000-07:00

Justus' class went on a field trip to a petting farm...

We were petting this pregnant goat and I explained to Justus there was a baby goat inside... he gave me an inquisitive look then promptly walked around to the goat's mouth and tried to pry her mouth open for a better look at that baby goat inside... :D

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Making a list and checking it twice

2009-05-05T17:11:00.000-07:00

Caleb brought me this list he's been making of activities he wants to do with his Grammy. I'll translate for ya:

1. Sea World Beach (they put up a shamu blanket he has and set up beach chairs in his room and pretend they are at the beach.)

2. Jump - "I don't know if Grammy can do this one or not, but she will either jump on the trampoline with me or watch me jump on the trampoline."

3. Time - they sit on Caleb's bed and pretend they are time travelers.

4. Race - race cars (i think)

5. seek highdingo (Hide and Go Seek)

I wonder if he'll revise the list once he realizes Grammy's not coming to his house this year, he's going to her house... I'll keep ya posted... :)

My little animal rescuer

2009-04-30T19:09:00.000-07:00

While at "work" today Caleb and my friend came across this turtle in the fish pond.

They released him here at a nearby lake. (I'm thinking I wish someone would release me here, looks like a great lake to sit and read a good book!)

I love how Caleb is with animals. I can see in these pictures how he felt the responsibility of saving this little guy (*or gal... he can tell the difference you know! seriously!) and the sense of purpose and pride he felt for this accomplishment.

I am so very grateful that my friend took these pictures for me!!!

*While we were on a field trip with Caleb's class a few weeks ago, the lady asked the class, "Does anybody know how we can tell weather this is a girl turtle, or a boy turtle?" Caleb's hand shot up and I was instantly filled with fear... oh no, what in the world is he going to say... no, no lady, don't call on him.... panic, she called on him....

Caleb replied, "If the turtle has a flat tummy or a dented tummy." Whew! relief!

Lady, "That's right! A girl turtle has a flat tummy and a boy turtle looks like he's been punched in the gut."

He told me later he learned that at Lion Country Safari! So he was listening!!! :) (Apparently much better than I was because I totally didn't remember that!)

I'm gonna get you... - warning: very blurry pictures ahead...

2009-04-26T17:23:00.001-07:00

One of the boys' favorite game they've made up is called "Lick Noses" where they tackle me and try to lick my nose... Here are a few of the action shots I took during our most recent attack... er game.... ;D I wish I had a video or even just audio to upload because it is the best laughter and giggling ever!

This last shot is just Caleb making a silly face, but it was during an attack... um game, so I'm posting it here.

Earth Day

2009-04-19T18:40:00.000-07:00

Today is Earth Day... a great day to clarify my blog name - "Living Grenier (Greener)". I've had some people congratulate me for trying to live a greener lifestyle "in order to save the planet and make sure our grandchildren will even have a planet at all." But I'm trying to live a greener lifestyle in order to attempt to live a healthier life, and to be a good steward of the planet that God has given us. In Genesis, God entrusted Adam and Eve (and now us) as caretakers of His creation. I don't fear the future, I don't fear for my children or grandchildren or even great grandchildren. God is in complete control over everything, and that includes the planet. I'm not trying to be fanatical, or buying into the mainstream media's "Global Warming" theory, or buying into fear strategies... The earth is NOT my mother!!! I am just trying to look at my decisions and think, "What would my great grandparents have eaten, or bought, or done, or cooked..." I'm not trying to be progressive, I'm trying to go back to the basics.

My natural salesman

2009-04-19T15:59:00.000-07:00

I poked my head out of the door to check on my little munchkins and found this sight...

And can you guess who was the ringleader of this ragamuffin band? Yes, that would be Caleb... He LOVES to sell things! And it's not just the smell of green (and silver and copper) that drives his passion, it's his passion for talking and people and the drama involved in selling things... okay, so Caleb interjects drama into EVERY event in his life... no really, EVERY event, no matter how minute... We often refer to him as our little Drama King!

This picture also depicts why Caleb and Justus get along so very well... Jus doesn't care what Caleb's doing, he just wants to do whatever his big bubba's doing. And Caleb thrives off of being the leader, and getting everyone, yes EVERYONE within earshot, involved in his plans. He dragged two neighborhood kids into this yard sell, encouraging them to help him set up the table and chairs and gather all of the nasty-dirty-half broken-toys from the backyard... vowing to pay them a portion of his proceeds. Would you believe he suckered several passerbys out of over $5!? Well, I guess you would if you knew Caleb... :)

DGL spells relief!

2009-04-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

Caleb and I both have sensitive tummies, along with prescribing yogurt our alternative doctor also suggested we use DGL chewable tablets. I had 4 previous doctors of different specialties (family doc, pediatrician, pediatric gastroentronologist, and an allergist) prescribe Caleb (age 5 at the time) heavy duty adult heartburn drugs. When I asked them how long Caleb would have to take these drugs, they all said he would probably have to take them for the rest of his life!!! I was not at peace with this coarse of action. So I sought out the opinion of one of the dad's from Caleb's school who also happens to be an MD with a more alternative approach. He also suggested that I read the book "Why Stomach Acid Is Good For You", which I did and highly recommend for anyone who deals with sensitive tummy issues...



I love that the DGL is an all natural product and I can give Caleb and entire bottle if I needed to without the risk of overdosing or side effects. I always leave them out for the babysitters, and don't have to fear weather or not the babysitter knows how to correctly portion the meds... And they are extremely effective! My heartburn is usually gone within 15 MINUTES!!! Needless to say, I'm a huge fan now! :)

Here is some info I found on the internet about DGL:


Stomach Discomfort
Almost everyone is familiar with the discomfort of an upset stomach. Most of us have indulged in our favorite foods, only to pay for it later during a sleepless night. Over-the-counter antacid tablets help, but recent research has revealed some concerns for those who consume them on a regular basis. Most prescription medications used to treat stomach discomfort do so by inhibiting or blocking acid secretion. Though temporarily effective, these medications often come with unpleasant side effects. Chewable DGL tablets offer a safe, effective way to relieve stomach discomfort naturally.

Features & Benefits of DGL Licorice

	Licorice flavonoids help inhibit acid secretion*
	Increases blood flow to gastric mucosal cells*
	Promotes secretion of the protective mucosal layer*
	Promotes the growth of new mucosal cells*
	Licorice extract is de-glycyrrhizinated to avoid side effects

How Does Licorice Work?
Licorice, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been used for over 3,000 years, making it one of the most widely used medicinal herbs in history.* Licorice naturally contains 10 triterpenes and 22 different flavonoids, which are believed to be responsible for its benefits.*1
Licorice has been used as a highly effective alternative to antacids and acid-blocking drugs. By comparison, licorice works not by inhibiting acid production, but rather through supporting and stimulating the stomach’s natural protective mechanisms.*2 Stomach discomfort is usually attributed to an imbalance between acid secretion and the stomach’s ability to protect itself against the irritation caused by acid. The presence of harmful bacteria can also be a factor. The stomach’s primary defense against corrosive gastric acid is a fine layer of mucin, secreted by millions of mucosal cells that line the stomach wall. Licorice has been shown to stimulate both the secretion of mucin and the formation of new mucosal cells, probably through its ability to increase blood flow to mucosal tissue.*2 In addition to supporting a normal chemical balance, licorice has also been shown to help inhibit the growth of potentially harmful intestinal bacteria, such as Helicobacter pylori.*3

We are family

2009-04-19T13:33:00.000-07:00

While eating dinner the other night Caleb said out of the blue, *sigh* "I have the best sisters in the whole world!" We looked at him questioningly and he replied, "Jessie and Sarah!" *duh*

Then the other day while driving in the van Jessie was able to finish my sentence and stated, "I'm so close to your family!" To which Caleb replied, "Close to our family?!?! You are our family!"

Now while these precious girls are not naturally our family members, they are our dear friends and practically our family in many ways. We are so blessed by them, which is why they consistently make my Thankful Thursday list.

What's a gup?

2009-04-17T22:19:00.000-07:00

...I still don't know, but I do know that Caleb is super excited to be a something-something gup green belt now in Tae Kwan Do...

Just making sure mom is watching...

Jumping up and down, so excited to get his green belt

He's such a ham, there in the middle

Came home after testing for over 3 hours straight, and wanted to teach Jessie and Sarah TKD

Yummy Gummy Gators

2009-04-16T02:48:00.001-07:00

For Easter this year I went to Chamberlain's (health food store) in search of some more natural goodies to include in our celebration. Justus was with me and picked these Strawberry Alligators out... (I wonder if I can figure out how to cut out veggies in the shape of alligators if he would eat them then...???)

Aren't they cute! :) They are gluten free, dairy free, have no artificial flavors, no artificial colors, no artificial citric acid... Ingredients: apple extracts thickened, apple pectine, strawberry juice thickened, lemon juice thickened, slightly sprayed with vegetable oil, natural flavor. (thickened = water reduced)

They weren't a big hit with Caleb, "Mom, did you make these like the fruit roll ups you tried to make?" (which he wasn't a fan of either...)

But Justus and I devoured these little gator snacks!

Thankful Thursday

2009-04-16T01:00:00.000-07:00

1. That Jesus didn't remain in the grave, but is ALIVE! (or AWIVE, in Justusese)

2. My toothbrush... hey, sometimes its the littlest things that make me smile :)

3. My WONDERFUL husband who constantly spoils me!!!!!

4. That Sarah and Jessie are home! Missed you girls! :)

5. That I don't have to go to the laundromat

6. Dave Ramsey!!!!

7. Old chicken bones... they make the most delicious stock! I love taking something useless and discarded and making it into something useful!

Cute things Justus has said:

After doing the Resurrection Egg activity from the Christian bookstore, Justus found an empty egg on the ground, opened it and stated excitedly, "Jesus not there, He AWIVE! (alive)" So precious!!!

"I go Miss Biba's (Barbara's) class" that's his preschool teacher. After several days of spring break he kept begging to go back...

Thankful Thursday

2009-04-05T15:19:00.000-07:00

1. Our youth group - small in #, but big in heart :)

2. Friends who never hesitate to step up to the plate to help out! Thanks guys!

3. A hubby that changes diapers!!! Honey, You ROCK!!!

4. Dove Dark Chocolates - on sale 2 for 1 at Publix! :)

5. That I was able to go to Justus' Easter party at his preschool

6. Mobile uploading pictures to facebook - so easy even I can do it!

7. That God established tons of pictures pointing to Christ in the Jewish culture! Amazing!!!

8. THAT JESUS SACRIFICED HIS OWN LIFE TO SAVE US!!!!

Funny things Caleb said this week:

"Mom, I love the spiderman 'toosetaste' (toothpaste ;)"

Funny things Justus said this week:

"Swimmin soup" instead of swimming suit :)

"hit pause, hit pause!" even in real life when he wants us to wait

found a little fuzzy baby chick in one of his eggs from his class' Easter egg hunt and asked, "where mama chick?"

Flash Frozen Friendship Anyone?

2009-04-04T16:48:00.000-07:00

While hanging out with some new friends the other night, our hostess was sharing about some of the people who were formerly involved in her life but who are no longer. She said, "I'm a firm believer that God brings people into our lives for a time to help us grow, then removes them when He is done..." I sat there as all of my insides screamed and cried in sorrow... "NO!!!" I'm a heart-on-my-sleeve type, so I'm sure she could see my awkward expression as I was trying to look supportive and look like I was listening attentively, while in the midsts of an internal turmoil outbreak... Now, I intellectually know that what she was saying is very true, but emotionally I hate losing anybody... EVER! I want to collect and hoard all of my friends, past and present, and flash freeze them at the height of our friendships... like flash frozen fruit - picked and frozen at the height of freshness... I thought of all of the friendships I've lost... some through very difficult circumstances, some through simply growing apart, some through moving and distance, some seem to just fade away... and some friendships have just changed... once inseparable, now just a comment or email here or there...

I've contemplated, (many an hour in the last several months unfortunately) whether it is better to have loved and lost, than to have never loved at all... at times I am grateful for the lessons I've learned, and I know I should be thankful in all situations, but other times it is just hard...

I don't have an ending for this post except to say to all my former, present, and future friends, I love you all and pray that God's will be done, even if I don't understand it or like it...

Thankful Thursday

2009-04-02T19:28:00.000-07:00

1. Sunscreen... I should use it...

2. Caleb is the BEST big brother in the entire world! Hands Down!!!

3. Dinner and games with friends!

4. My Hubby! I could never make it as a single mom!!!!!!! My prayers go out to any of you that are having to raise your kiddos alone!

5. That my Hubby rocks at Tetris (among other things) which consequently makes him amazing at packing too! :)

6. Pools!!! I could swim allllllll day every day!

7. Random cute things Justus says such as:

"Tada! Pole Wollies are here!" (rolly pollies are here)

"buggle bee" instead of bumble bee

"I wooking at cacoons!" i'm looking at racoons.

Lots to look forward to...

2009-03-28T14:04:00.001-07:00

Mad Gab

2009-03-28T12:28:00.000-07:00

Trying to decipher Justus' 2yr old babbling is like playing mad gab 24/7

first round - "eye keem shrk"

Me: "Ice Cream Shark?"

second round - urgent plea, slightly louder, slightly higher pitched "Eye Keem SHRK!"

Me: "Oh, Ice Cream Shark, ummmm a Shark that likes to eat ice cream?"

third round - frustrated, much louder, much higher pitched, "Eye Keem SHRK!!!"

Me: "Oh Wow! Really! That is so cool!"

fourth round - rage, not satisfied with my attempt to play it off... "EYE KEEM SHRK!!!"

Me: "Look at the Huge Red Monster Truck!"

fifth round - absolute meltdown, furious that I attempted a diversion..., ridiculously loud, pitch so high all of the dogs in a 1 mile radius are in pain... "EYE KEEM SHRK!!!!!!!!"

Me: wits end, panic, what else can i guess... oh, what's that about to pass me on the right... an Ice Cream TRUCK!!! Yay! Okay, "Oh I see it buddy, an Ice Cream TRUCK!!!" okay, success! Whew! Huge sigh of relief... attempting to regain normal heart rate and breathing rate...

Justus: giggles, "Yeah, eye keem shrk" big smile

Loving Legos

2009-03-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

...not me personally, but loving the hours of quiet legos afford me!!! :) Caleb can sit almost motionless for hours alone in his room (if you knew Caleb, you'd understand how astonishing this mini-miracle is... He HATES to be alone, he HATES to be quiet, and he HATES to be still!!!) I love to see him finally emerge from his room holding one of his masterpieces that fit intricately into some new realm he has been creating. What a great exercise in focusing, and imagining and story telling, and I'm sure there are some mathematical brain muscles being stretched and flexed as well. Here are some pictures of his creations.

Caleb: Mom, I want you to put this on the family portrait.

Me: Do you mean the blog?

Caleb: Yeah. I call it the family portrait because it's like a time capsule.

Did you notice the "Grabber Nabbers" on the front of the police ship?

My kind of fishing... Shopping for a Cause

2009-03-27T17:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this is my second blog about a store within Lakeland's Lakeside Village, so I'm sure by now you can guess I enjoy that area... I LOVE the store Go Fish! It's a bit hard to find on a side alley area, plus it is right next door to Fish City restaurant so I've had several people who thought Go Fish was the take out or fast food portion of Fish City. That would be a clever name if it were, but it's not. Go Fish is a store that sells unique items from hard working artisans from developing countries. I believe this picture is of the founder and one of the artisans.

My favorite earrings

My favorite Bracelet

Here is the web addy, but the website totally doesn't do the store justice! So if you have a Go Fish store nearby, go check it out in person to get the full experience.

http://www.gofishretail.com/index.html

Tea-riffic!

2009-03-27T16:29:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Tea Largo located next door to Picasso's Cup in Lakland's Lakeside Village Shopping Center. They always have several delicious teas to sample, and hundreds to choose from! I picked up a super yummy blueberry tea while hanging out with a friend down there last weekend. I love to grab a tasty iced tea, then sneak a peek inside Picasso's Cup at all the adorable artwork... mind you, I'm not staying to actually participate in said artwork... anything crafty makes me hyperventilate... but I love to look. That being said, if you are needing a buddy to hang with at Picasso's Cup, I'll join you with a super large iced tea creation and pull up a chair... Minus a paint brush!!! ;D

Click on the picture below to visit their website.

Tea Largo Beverage Company

Tea Largo is the area's first contemporary tea bar!

We have a full beverage menu for refreshment featuring Green Tea lattes, Fruit & Tea smoothies, Organic Honduran Iced coffee, "Red Espresso", Matcha Green Tea Lattes, and our famous Frozen Lattes (try our "frozen pumpkin pie"...yummm!)

We feature over 100 loose leaf teas & fruit tisanes hot, over ice, and in bulk so you can enjoy at home. We also carry Teaposy's blooming teas & gift sets, Muzi Matcha, Beehouse teapots, vegan baked goods, and more.

We still offer the same fabulous recipes of frozen and hot coffee lattes: Almond Joy * Almond Roca Mocha * Black Forest * Coconut Cream Pie * Cookies & Mint *Double Fudge Mocha * Dulce De Leche * English Toffee * German Chocolate Cake * Kahlua Mudslide (non alchoholic) * Oreo Mocha (Frozen only) * Peanut Butter Mocha * Raspberry Truffle * Tiramisu Cheesecake * Toasted Hazelnut * Toffee Nut

About Red Espresso... we were the first establishment in the STATE to serve up Red Espresso, a specially-ground, antioxidant-rich Rooibos extracted as a "shot" through our espresso machine. "Red Espresso" has 5 times the antioxidants of green tea! AND, its delicious! It is naturally sweet, so you can add half the sweetners! We serve up RED as a latte, cappuccino, macchiato, con pana, and can make your favorite lattes like pumpkin spice, chai, or caramel (hot or iced!) RED is naturally caffeine-free, so its great for athletes, kids, expectant and nursing mothers, those sensitive to even "decaf" espresso, and anyone who wants the health benefits of tea. ENJOY!
I Recommend
Red Espresso…

Red Espresso
We all LOVE to make tea lattes (iced or hot) …

Thankful Thursday

2009-03-26T19:10:00.000-07:00

A sampling of things I'm thankful for this week:

1. My dear sweet hubby taking the kiddos to Awana last night so I could do whatever I wanted all alone in a peaceful, quiet house!!! He really shows me in many different ways every single day how much he loves me! :)

2. Friend's babies to help soothe my slight baby fever

3. SAK comedy lab which is so much fun! And friends to go with! :) (this one was supposed to go in last weeks that I missed...)

4. That Eric is so patient with me!

5. Friends that encourage and inspire me

6. That Eric doesn't have to commute!

7. MOPs - hanging around other women in similar situations as myself is so therapeutic!

Whatcha thankful for these days?

Jiminy...

2009-03-19T10:19:00.000-07:00

Me: Hey Justus, whatcha doing?

Me: What's in there buddy?

Justus: I got crickets

Me: (stifling gag reflex...)

CHEESE!

2009-03-18T18:42:00.000-07:00

He is unlike his camera hog big bubba in many ways, especially in that Jus hates getting his picture taken. However, lately he has realized how cute he is occasionally and will ham it up a bit for the camera - lucky for me and so thankful that my constant companion (aka iPhone) has a built in camera so I can catch these adorable moments!!!

Sweet!

2009-03-18T17:16:00.000-07:00

A friend from my high school youth group is hosting a chance to win a candy package on her blog (http://www.chattahoocheemama.com/chattahoochee_mama/2009/03/surf-sweets-giveaway.html).

Here is a little of what she had to say:

I LOVE promoting natural alternatives to mainstream foods and treats... and this is one treat that kids and adults alike will love and appreciate! Besides being delicious, all Surf Sweets Candies are:

Made with Organic Fruit Juice & Sweeteners
Made with Natural Colors & Flavors
Contain 100% of Your Daily Vitamin C
Free of Corn Syrup and GMOs
Made in a Nut Free Facility
Gluten Free

Thankful errrrr... Friday? ;}

2009-03-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

Playing catch up today... ;D

Things I've been especially thankful for this week:

1. My Tuesday night Life Group - y'all are so much FUN! I LOVE TUESDAY NIGHTS!!!

2. That Rylann was born super early Thursday morning and that both baby and momma are doing well! I can't wait to hold her!!!!!!!!!

3. For yummy homemade Amish Friendship Bread, and yummy homemade raw butter!!! Thanks Sarah and Jessie, y'all are the BEST! :)

Thankful Thursday

2009-03-05T17:57:00.000-08:00

1. Camera on my iphone so I always have it with me... Caught this adorable "tiss" pic of Jus.

2. Lock on my door so I can take a shower in peace! (any mom with little ones can appreciate this one as well! Mom, I'm soooo retroactively sorry!!!)

3. Camping with the fam

4. Indoor plumbing!!!

5. MY SHOWER!!!!!

6. My own bed!

7. Crockpot... Not only does it cook while I'm busy doing other things, but they're especially handy when the oven quits working!

8. Friends who know how to fix ovens! Thanks Bill! :)

9. That the fix was super simple and cheap!!!

Psalm 116:12
How can I repay the LORD for all his goodness to me?

Desperate!

2009-03-03T20:35:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago my coffee pot broke, and I've been holding out until I place an order for a new one... So this my desperate attempt at getting some coffee!!! I know when I get a real coffee pot again it will totally make my Thankful Thursday list!!!

Lions, and Tigers, and Bears, OH MY!!!

2009-02-28T02:06:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Errr... Minus the tigers and bears...

Feb 28, 2009
This morning I was awoken by the sound of LIONS!!! Now, I've heard a male lion roar at the Fort Worth Zoo a couple of times - it is fierce and shakes the entire zoo! This was more like a bunch of little roars, or maybe "barks"... well, little is relative...

Quite disconcerting when the only thing "protecting" my family is a thin sheet of nylon!!! Made me really reconsider this whole camping in a tent thing, and made me momentarily jealous of those in campers or cabins... The tent thing is pretty adventurous for me :) Now while the Lions are quiet I feel pretty brave, but when they start up I'm frozen with fear... the long walk to the bathroom is daunting to say the least...

I can't imagine living in a mud and stick hut in a land where these beasts roam free!!!

This gives me a whole new respect for "The Ghost in the Darkness", which I already had a huge respect for... that movie totally freaks me out!!!

March 22, 2009 (yes I'm finally getting around to blogging about our trip a month ago!)
I can't wait to go back in a couple of weeks! We had so much fun, full disclosure we weren't really roughing it... when you can leave your campsite and eat at Chipotle in less than 5 minutes, you are not truly roughing it!

"Oh I wish I was an Oscar Mayer...

2009-02-26T22:24:00.000-08:00

...Natural-smoked-uncured-no-nitrate-or-nitrite-Beef-Frank..." okay so it doesn't fit into the song well, but it does fit nicely into a healthier lunch box for Caleb! I've recently learned that nitrates and nitrites are linked to childhood cancers, so cutting them out just makes sense to me. And Caleb LOVES them!

Thankful Thursday

2009-02-26T17:03:00.000-08:00

Things I've noted that I'm thankful for this week:

1. Caspian (the kitty) entertains the boys and especially Jus when Caleb is at school during the day... poor kitty... ;D

2. PRESCHOOL!!! - although I'm also really thankful that Jus is only there Tues and Thurs 1/2 days

3. that Caleb can do some light babysitting for us - he is a GREAT babysitter and they have a blast together!

4. the babysitter for our Life Group (small group Bible study)... Jessie, we miss you!!! :)

5. the new playground - tons of fun tonight!

6. that Caleb can give Justus baths - again, he's an amazing big bubba! :)

Where the Buffalo Roam

2009-02-25T08:28:00.000-08:00

While reading a couple of Jordan Rubin's books, and pouring over hours and hours of yahoo group postings for WAPFTampaBay (Weston A Price Foundation of Tampa) and DiscussingNT (discussing Nourishing Traditions) I've been concerned about (among many many things...) the current practices for raising beef... Now I've had my eye out for Grass Fed Beef, but it's not easily available. I found this ground buffalo at Publix awhile back and we've been eating it, and loving it for several months now. It's not gamey tasting at all, which I was afraid it would be, and I was very surprised to read on the label that buffalo has 40% iron, opposed to the only 10% in ground beef... and I KNOW I need more iron in my diet! It is pricier for sure, but I'm hoping the healthier change will save us money in the long run.

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD

2009-02-21T18:46:00.000-08:00

My favorite project all year long is Samaritan's Purse's (Franklin Graham's ministry) Operation Christmas Child!!! I seriously think and plan for it literally all year long!

This picture captures the essence of what OCC is all about! These precious kiddos living in absolute squalor, who have never received a gift in their entire lives... are getting their very first gift! The fact that they have never received a gift makes these boxes full of what we perceive as dollar store junk, true treasures not only to the kids, but to their families as well! They are so amazed at getting not only one gift, but a box full of gifts, they often ask, "Who has sent this to me???" They are puzzled that complete strangers would give them, a seemingly "no body", their first and maybe only gift of their entire childhood! This confusion is the perfect opportunity the volunteers of OCC use to share with them the love of Christ. They also include a book in their language about the life of Christ.

The many accounts of new faith in Christ that come from this ministry are amazing, heart warming, goose-bumpy accounts of how a loving God reaches down to touch these very children and their families! One I just heard about this year is the story of Lejla Allison from Bosnia. I won't ruin it for you (although I will issue a tissue warning!), but go watch the video for yourself at:

http://static.samaritanspurse.org/broadcast/OCC_video/LejlaAllison.mov

M&M's are truly MAGICAL!!!

2009-02-18T18:53:00.000-08:00

My backyard looked like the toy box had blown up! I know what I'm about to admit is going to be highly frowned upon... considered bribery... and I totally get all that, but still...

I took one look at the suddenly sluggish neighborhood kids along with my very own and shouted, "I'll give you an M&M for every toy you clean up!" And VIOLA! Instantaneously spotless! And it only cost me about 30 M&M's, and the big bonus - I didn't loose my sanity ;)

However, this is a very, VERY rare occasion! I've only used it once before, and basically it's used to bribe neighborhood children... and they think it's a blast. My kids know better... it's a TREAT!

Thankful Thursday

2009-02-18T13:18:00.001-08:00

1. A husband that totally spoils me! :)

2. My Facebook friends! I know I've already been thankful for them in another post, but it is so encouraging to get a response to my status, or to just get a glimps inside their world through their status updates. It's a great tool to help me pray for them as well!

3. New friends God's brought into my life through Life Group and Lake Wales MOPs

4. Fingernails... I know, odd, and I'm not talking about the fancy kind either... just plain 'ol nails... They've protected me from chopping off my fingers a time or two when dicing the veggies ;)

5. Bun warmers in the van! Something I would have never wanted, but when we bought our van a few years ago it had 'em... and who would of thought bun warmers would be a plus down here in sunny Florida? But it is just so relaxing on my lower back... (refer back to #1 ;)

6. Having a dear precious friend who just happens to be a massage therapist!!! God totally spoils me too! ;D

7. Awesome opportunities! Our lives are filled with them!!!

8. Caleb's Tae Kwan Do school - they work so well with him!

9. ...on that note, my friends April and Ted! They are both so patient with my boys and especially Caleb, and they work so well with him!

10. My forgiving and understanding mom!!! I forgot her birthday earlier today, but mom it's totally not personal... I also forgot Justus at preschool today!!! (and NO it's NOT pregnancy brain!!!)

11. That Eric works so close to the preschool, and has a flexible schedule... ;} (refer back to #1 and #10...)

12. That I don't have to lug all my dirty laundry to a laundromat!

13. That I didn't discontinue our subscription to 24 hr. Baby First TV when I thought Justus was over it... It's totally rescued us a few late nights!

Living Grenier: Techies Camping

2009-02-15T15:14:00.000-08:00

Living Grenier: Techies Camping

Thankful Thursday

2009-02-12T20:06:00.000-08:00

1. Church Planters Wives Retreat - the teachers are so incredible and have totally challenged and ministered to me every year!

2. Finding my CDs from high school right before my road trip. I'm a rock sta in da ca ;D

3. Amanda for helping me get to the CDs :)

4. Cold nights so I can snuggle under my warm blankies... (although it was in the 80's today...) and dreaming about ordering a Snuggie... ;D

5. Avocados... They're just the most amazingest fruit ever YUM!!! Although I think they should be in a different category other than "fruit"!! "Fruit" should be sweet in my opinion.

6. Chipotle. No explanation needed on that one!

7. Sharing food with friends at restaurants. Especially desserts, right girls! ;)

8. My fresh honey and milk ladies! Very Very Full o' Thanks!

9. All of the EXCELLENT help I've been getting these last couple of days! Y'all Rock!

Justus and Daddy

2009-02-11T07:57:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Techies Camping

2009-02-02T10:09:00.000-08:00

Saturday Morning Cartoons
A few weekends ago Caleb begged us to go camping... that is, set up the tent in the backyard... ;) We were really roughing it with two mattresses off the beds, two iphones, two macbook laptops, and a heater... all plugged into a heavy duty extension cord... yup, totally techie... ;D

Meditation

2009-02-02T09:26:00.000-08:00

Psalm 119:48 (New International Version)

48 I lift up my hands to your commands, which I love,
and I meditate on your decrees.

While reading the Bible, I've come across the word "meditate" many times, but never truly understood what it meant. I knew it didn't mean sit "indian style" (or "crisscross apple sauce" for the younger generations) and touch your middle fingers and thumbs together... and I did know that it meant to continue to "think about" something, to ponder... but I still didn't get it... Until one day I was re-hashing a painful experience in my mind... going over and over in my head what I could have done differently, what had been done to me, why had it been done to me, should I do something else, if so what else should I do, will this situation ever change, will this pain ever heal, will the situation ever be mended... and suddenly it hit me... I was meditating on my pain! It was as if a lightbulb went off in my brain! This is what it means to meditate! It has been such an amazing learning experience to realize when I'm meditating on negative thoughts, and choose to stop myself and choose instead to mediate on God's Words. What an amazing burden is lifted when I choose the later!

I've heard it said, "Anything you DON'T feed, Dies..." By meditating on my pain, I'm "feeding" my pain - causing it to increase! Yikes! But by meditating on God's word, I'm "feeding" my spirit, I'm renewing my mind, and I'm increasing my PEACE!

What have you been meditating on? What are some things you do to stop yourself from focusing on pain or negativity?

While I'm Waiting

2009-02-02T07:48:00.000-08:00

During a sermon I heard in Carlsbad, New Mexico on waiting on the Lord, the pastor pointed out that the word "wait" can mean several things:

to stay in place in expectation of, to remain stationary in readiness or expectation, to look forward expectantly, to hold back expectantly, AND / OR to serve as waiter for, to be ready and available, to attend as a servant.

I've come back to this thought time and time again, especially when I heard the song "While I'm Waiting" by John Waller. Below I've included the lyrics and a link to the video on YouTube.

This song has really ministered to me (on constant replay on my ipod since september!!!) during a very difficult time for me, and continues to minister me now. Even though when I first heard this song in September I couldn't even imagine myself as "bold and confident", or even "moving ahead" for that matter, singing this song and praying these lyrics have helped tremendously!

What song has ministered to you lately, and how?

While I'm Waiting by: John Waller

I’m waiting
I’m waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I’m waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Taking every step in obedience

While I’m waiting
I will serve You
While I’m waiting
I will worship
While I’m waiting
I will not faint
I’ll be running the race
Even while I wait

I’m waiting
I’m waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I’m waiting on You, Lord
Though it’s not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait

I will serve You while I’m waiting
I will worship while I’m waiting
I will serve You while I’m waiting
I will worship while I’m waiting
I will serve You while I’m waiting
I will worship while I’m waiting on You, Lord

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFwZ7Ekg080

Thankful Thursday

2009-02-02T07:42:00.000-08:00

1. Coffee!!!!!!!

2. Justus running with his arms flailing behind him... looks like a non-flying birds wings flapping behind him

3. Justus asking for "sqwooshy huggie"s

4. Going to eat and hang out with people from church and really get to know them.

5. Caleb's precious response to finding the kitty, "God answered my prayers mom! It must be God's will that we have a cat instead of a dog!"

6. Pizza day at school, not having to pack a lunch!

7. Exciting possibilities that might be opening up

8. God's gentle guiding and direction

9. My kids when they first wake up in the mornings... They are so cuddly and adorable and say the cutest things and make the cutest faces

10. Great teen girl friends to hang with and be silly with and play makeup with and who love my kids! It's fun to have them to talk to about things other than Star Wars, Transformers, Spiderman, and dinosaurs! :)

I thought I heard a puddy tat!

2009-02-02T06:58:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

I did, I did hear a puddy tat! We found this little bitty kitten in our backyard on Saturday. Now, we are not cat people as Shawna Lawhorn can attest to... (and NO I did not intentionally launch Warf across the room... I was very much asleep when he jumped in my lap at 3am!!! And don't even attempt to contact PETA on this incident folks, it happened over a decade ago and it's way past the statue of limitations I'm sure... ;} However, Caleb has been praying everyday for the last few weeks for a small dog, specifically a Chihuahua, "but if you would rather me have another pet, then that's okay too God." When we found this little kitten in our yard, Caleb's eyes got as big as platters as he excitedly exclaimed... "God answered my prayers Mom! It's His will that we have a cat instead of a dog!" Now... how does one argue with that? Caleb named him Prince Caspian... however, our friends Sarah and Jessie think he may be a she... in that case, Caleb named it Princess Laya... I guess we won't know for sure until the kitty's vet visit...

Thankful Thursday

2009-01-29T16:35:00.000-08:00

1. That Justus requires me to "tiss" the EXACT spot that he hurt, so I end up kissing him 20 times until I get it right...

2. I have the best husband in the world... I know y'all must be sick of hearing about it, but seriously! He works so very, very hard at all of his various jobs, but always has time for me and the boys! I don't know how he does it... I can't chew gum and walk at the same time, but he can do 25 things at the same exact time, and can do them well!

3. Caleb babysitting Justus in the backyard, followed by bathing him, so I can cook dinner uninterrupted. He's the BEST big brother in the WORLD!

4. My IPod on my phone... That way I never leave home without it, and the songs that minister to me the most are right at my fingertips!

5. Precious friends! God has been so faithful in that area of my life and I am so thankful to Him!!!

6. Finding a Whole Foods in Orlando! :) I know it's a 2hr drive round trip, but still... I'm thankful and excited and can't wait to find a day when I can just head up there alone and scope it out!! :) Um... and I have to reiterate how thankful I am for Eric's various jobs again... because that's how I'm paying for Whole Foods... :)

7. Thankful for the tough times because I can see God's hand working through the heartache to help others...

Chocolate Syrup I can feel good about

2009-01-26T21:25:00.000-08:00

One of the baby steps I've taken lately is making my own chocolate syrup in an attempt at getting a product that is closer to real, whole food... Not filled with all sorts of ingredients that I don't have a clue what they are, nor have the ability or patience to pronounce... Simply cocoa, vanilla, a splash of filtered water, and raw honey. (Read more about why "raw" honey at the bottom of this post.) The kids love it and haven't noticed that I've switched out their commercial syrup for a healthier version to make their chocolate milk in the mornings. Now if I could only find a way to get Justus to eat his veggies...

"...phytonutrients found both in honey and propolis have been shown to possess cancer-preventing and anti-tumor properties. These substances include caffeic acid methyl caffeate, phenylethyl caffeate, and phenylethyl dimethylcaffeate. Researchers have discovered that these substances prevent colon cancer in animals by shutting down activity of two enzymes, phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C and lipoxygenase. When raw honey is extensively processed and heated, the benefits of these phytonutrients are largely eliminated."

source: The Worlds Healthiest Foods - www.WHFoods.org

My Li'l Workin' Man

2009-01-23T20:40:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

My friend April "hired" Caleb to come work in her garden one afternoon a week. He is so excited about his first "job". He had so much fun! I'm hoping he learns how to have a green thumb from her, since he ain't learnin' that from mama! I can kill the most resilient plants while even attempting to diligently attend to their care...

Thankful Thursday

2009-01-21T20:06:00.000-08:00

Thursday is finally here (actually, an hour from now, but I just can't wait to start this post!!!)! I've been looking forward to Thankful Thursday (a posting idea from a friend from my high school youth group - Ainsley) ever since I started this blog a few days ago... It's actually that idea alone that pushed me to start a blog at all. I dunno, this just struck a cord deep down within me, which may explain why my favorite holiday is Thanksgiving!!!

1. Hearing Justus' precious 2 yr old version of words such as: tis (kiss), hug-hug or huggie-hug, shoclit (chocolate), frory (sorry)

2. Watching Caleb play so lovingly with his baby brother. He's the best big brother on the planet!

3. My wonderful husband! He is my rock and biggest supporter! I'm so grateful that he is so smart and always thinks outside the box, helping me accomplish so much more than I ever could on my own! Plus he totally spoils me! :)

4. Facebook and Myspace and email and internet... and iPhones and MACS! ;D Eric says once you go Mac, you never go back, and I totally get it now! ;D It's great to have instant access to people in my life that I haven't seen in over a decade, and other loved ones who are so stinkin' far away...

5. Caleb's school, teachers, principal, headmaster, other support staff... they are all so great and I've always had that "I'm home" feeling there. I love that he is challenged there not only academically, but he's instructed Biblically on how to live from the inside out.

6. Being able to be a stay-at-home mom and not miss those precious moments with my kiddos.

7. Relatively chilly evenings, which induce the BEST sleep under my super cozy comforter :)

8. Pandora - the ability to have my favorite music at my fingertips as all times!

9. Zerberts on Justus' belly and the infectious giggles that ensue.

10. Blowing bubbles - one of Justus' favorite things to do. Watching him chase down the bubbles, karate chop them, punch them, kick them, go cross-eyed trying to focus on them... and all the great sound effects that little boys make to accompany EVERYTHING they do... ;D

11. Hearing Justus say his newest phrase, "Are you kidd'n me!?" And watching his face light up knowing he's just said the funniest thing in history. :)

12. Watching Caleb jump on his new trampoline that he paid for with his hard earned savings, and seeing the pride on his face when his friends find out he bought it. :)

13. Listening to Caleb's voice deepen when he was offered his first "job" this week (weeding my friend's vegetable garden once a week ;)

SO, WHATCHA THANKFUL FOR THESE DAYS? (These are real questions I would love to hear y'all's - an actual southernism... - answers! :)

Thinking Tree Thoughts :)

2009-01-18T22:20:00.000-08:00

One of the things I've really been struggling with and learning and growing in lately is trying to take every thought captive. Instead of focusing on negative, painful, unproductive thoughts, I've been trying to focus on life-filled thoughts. I even sometimes imagine little cartoon police officers handcuffing and taking the thought away to the slammer, heehee... :) It's interesting how God uses trials in our lives to highlight and teach us more fully about His Truths. Maybe it's just me, but when I'm going through trials it seems as if every time I turn on the tv or radio or open a book or magazine there is someone telling their testimony or sharing what they are going through or a sermon that hits me exactly where I need it most. This isn't a perfect example of what I mean, but it's been something helpful none the less... I was reading Jordan Rubin's book, "Perfect Weight America" (okay, side note... I thought he was a scam artist too until I saw his tv program, and his nutritional advice really makes sense! and was in line with several doctors and specialists we had seen over the last couple of years...) In his chapter "Think for Your Perfect Weight" he describes exhaling stress and inhaling peace. However, I found myself putting way too much focus on whatever I'm exhaling (stress, anger, whatever), when instead that energy could continue to be focused on the positive... Why not, "Inhale and imagine the peace of God filling you, and exhale imagining the peace of God flowing out of you and covering Jane", or whoever may be enhancing your stress level at the moment... I know, I know... seems hokey, but try it sometime...

I also came across a tv program with a woman guest who is a brain researcher. She described what actually happens in your brain when you have a positive thought and a negative thought. She explained that when you have a positive thought your neurons in your brain form in a tree like pattern, but when you have a negative thought your neurons form a bare looking tree with thorns that emit neuro-toxins which effect our physical health... can make us feel achey and tired, etc. I dunno, I haven't studied the brain, but it sure helps me visualize. :) So now I'm trying to think tree thoughts more and more :) Now I wanna cute t-shirt that says, "Thinking Tree Thoughts" :)

make custom gifts at Zazzle

Thinking Tree Thoughts by hgreniermk
Get t-shirts from zazzle

Okay, so now many of you think I've completely gone off my rocker, but how do you explain taking every thought captive? What does that look like, how does it play out in your life?

Everybody's doing it...

2009-01-18T19:56:00.000-08:00

Okay, everybody's doing it... I guess it's about time to join the blogging craze... I've held out for long enough, so now I am attempting too... My purpose here is to just give my family and loved ones a glimpse into our lives. I'm striving to just be me. I'm not clever with naming things... except a turtle I had as a pet for about a week I named Pokey... I really liked that name... anyway, I named my blog Living Grenier to play off of Living "Greener" (if you hadn't already caught that...) which is often how people mispronounce our name. It's also how I've been trying (baby steps people) to live - greener... Not that I've bought into the whole global warming idea or anything, just trying to live healthier, and trying to be a better steward of what God's entrusted to us. Those of us who are Christians ought to be some of the greenest out there! :) Not only with healthy, sustainable living, but also green with spiritual growth...

Thanks so much Ainsley for the inspiration, and yes, I am planning on stealing your Thankful Thursday idea - great idea!

Caleb has named two dogs, Pepsi and Snack (Eric added "Gator" in front... sick sense of humor...). Did you ever come up with a great name that you just loved?