Faithbooking Inspirations

Magnificent Defeat

I heard a great phrase in a song yesterday ~

"This Magnificent Defeat"

Got me to thinking about how many Magnificent Defeat finish lines the Lord has brought me across through His power, grace and love.

What about you?  What have you defeated only through Him?  How about that sin, fear, moment of decision, or challenge? 

That weight you lost ~ that was only through His power.  That moment you stepped on the airplane despite your overwhelming fear of flying ~ it was His hand that gently guided you.  That sin that was running your life, soul, and, mind ~ it was His Cross that provided the power to overcome.  That mountain of a situation that you believed was an impossible climb ~ the peak was reached and conquered through His love and guidance.  Each of those Magnificent Defeats were yours through, and because of, Him.

We need to share the stories of our Magnificent Defeats in our albums.  The phrase makes a great page title / header.

• Title a page This Magnificent Defeat and tell the story of a specific time the Lord has helped you be a "Defeater" instead of a "defeated".  Include pictures, your feelings before, during, and after, as well as how the Lord provided the power, grace, peace, love, forgiveness and/or direction you needed.
• Title a double page spread "Magnificent Defeats" and share mini stories.  Include a few short sentences about the times you have defeated through Him.  Even little moments such as the time you only ate half the piece of cheesecake or were able to speak to someone who'd hurt you.
• Include scriptures, prayers you prayed, and songs, people or stories that were an inspiration.
• "...the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."  1 John 4:4
• "...divine power to demolish strongholds." 2 Corinthians 10:4
• "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13
• "...The Lord, the King of Israel, is with you; never again will you fear any harm."  Zephaniah 3:15
• "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 3:14 (for more scriptures for scrapbooking, see Unto All Generations)

He gives us the gift of Magnificent Defeats daily.  Give Him the glory.  Point to His power.  Focus on His forgiveness.  Leave the Legacy of His Love for you and His children.

Oh No, She's Awake...

"Live your life in such a way that when you open your eyes in the morning satan says, 'Oh no, she's awake'."

I received this in an email a couple days ago, and, it has continued to challenge me in a deep gut-checking way.

Does satan say this about you?  I'm not sure he does about me.

Along with being a personal prayer, this statement can make an eternal impact in our albums.

• This would be a great title page in a graduation album or 'new path' album
• Use it along with a picture of a loved one you want to challenge to live such a life
• Use it in a double page spread with pictures of a loved one whom you believed lived such a life, and, journal what she / he did to bring others to Christ
• Include pictures of a teenager sleeping / waking
• Frame the phrase and place in a bedroom or bathroom to challenge you or your family

Lord, may we be intense enough in our walk with and for You, that we are dangerously scary to the enemy.

All the POWER You Need ~ Soundtrack Saturday 2

As I ran a couple days ago, praying about the next Soundtrack Saturday post, as well as where SBB is going, I strongly believe the Lord placed this song and scripture on my heart for someone(s).  And, no matter how many times I tried to add something or change it, He brought me back to this one statement ~ "Remind them, and, you, that I have all the POWER they need".

So, quite simply, I now present Soundtrack Saturday Track #2:  along with a scripture that I have hanging on the wall in front of my treadmill.  Also, here is a copy of the scripture I stare at and pray through as I run my grueling  torturous  fun miles :~)  (Download all_the_power_you_need.doc)

...There was given me a thorn in my flesh... Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.  But He said to me "My grace is sufficient for you.  My POWER is made perfect in weakness."...Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's POWER may rest in me." 2 Cor. 12:7-9.

"All the Power You Need" ~ by Darlene Zschech 

• Use these words to create a sports page: include the sacrifice, journey and milestones
• Create a page to tell the story of a special goal or trial in your life.  Journal how you experienced Christ's power
• Share one of your weaknesses and how Christ can / has given you power to overcome (weight, bad habits, sin, fear, doubt, etc.)
• Create a "Power Page" with this scripture on top and share mini stories / clips of times in your life you've seen or experienced His power as you encourage your loved ones to trust in and tap into His power. 

Rise to IT

"Your life is an occasion ~ Rise to it"

I heard this on Mr. Magorium's Magic Emporium, and, thought it'd be great for our albums.

Stick this little statement on a page with balloons, airplanes, high places, climbers on couches or mountains, graduation, new path, or even on a front page.

Those 8 words can alter the course for someone searching for, or struggling with, where they want to go or what they believe God wants them to be.

**And, if you are looking for a good movie check out Mr. Magorium's Magic Emporium.  It is clean, filled with a wonderful message and, will make you smile.

Heal the Wound ~ Leave the Scar

A couple of months ago my daughter left this 4 1/2 inch skid-mark on our street with her teeth...yes, I did say with her teeth!

As I held my poor daughter with her busted teeth, I refused to believe my sons when they said there was a "huge skid mark" ~ I told them to grab a ruler and camera.....So, now my daughter tells people this picture is her "trophy", and, "the pictures are gonna make a great scrapbook page" ~ now that is a true scrapbooker's kid!

We've had many trips to the dentist, and there are still some prayers going up about the long term prognosis of her front teeth, but, the wound on her lip has healed to leave a pink scar.  When I look at that little mark, I praise God for so many blessings that came from this incident.  And, even my 8 year old can tell you how God blessed her and protected her that day.

How many scars do you have that really can become reminders of how beautiful God is? 

What about those stretch marks from your pregnancies ~ the cut above your eye from that car accident that so many said they weren't sure how you walked away ~ the little burn from your first homemade cake you made for your daddy's birthday ~ the pain yet peace you still feel when you hear that certain song ~ the memories of that one night when your life was changed forever ~ the smile lines which even the expensive creams can't seem to erase, that really show how often you've had the gift of smiles and laughter during your life....

I have 2 'scars' that I have been praying the Lord would remove, one physical, and, one situational ~ however, realistically, I don't see that prayer being answered in the way I'd choose.  Instead, I have begun thanking Him for his grace, power, and love that is proven in the scar that remains. And, I  pray/sing the chorus to Heal the Wound by Point of Grace. (I've included the song and lyrics at the end of this post)

Heal the wound but leave the scar
A reminder of how merciful You are
I am broken, torn apart
Take the pieces of this heart
And heal the wound but leave the scar

We each have so many wounds He has healed, but, the scars remain. 

Sharing these scars, whether physical, situational, or emotional have the chance of blessing future generations.  We can teach them to see their scars through His eyes and rejoice in His ways.  We can share His works, power, love, and beauty through pages with the story of our scars.

• Share a the story, with or without a picture, of a physical wound you have:  Share the story how it came to be, how you saw His work in the situation, and, how that wound / scar has blessing in it
• Share a time in your life when you were hurt deeply but you can look back through the emotional scar and see His work and way
• Share the story of scars your loved ones have and how those wounds to scars were blessings.  This is especially important and touching for our children as they grow and see a scar but can remember the love of God
• Create a page with a picture of Christ's nail-scarred hands (you can find them on the internet if you search in images).  Journal what those wounds mean to you, how you feel when you see the picture / think of His sacrifice, and the power those wounds represent.  This is a great opportunity to share His sacrifice for EACH of us and the gift of eternal life ~ you never know the heart that your page may change!!!

Enjoy the song below (warning: a tissue may be needed), and, as you read the words, thank Him for a wound He has healed but allowed a scar to remain to remind you of His love and mercy.

~ Praise Him for your scars! ~

Heal the Wound by Point of Grace

I used to wish that I could rewrite history
I used to dream that each mistake could be erased
Then I could just pretend
I never knew me back then

I used to pray that You would take this shame away
Hide all the evidence of who I've been
But it's the memory of
The place You brought me from
That keeps me on my knees
And even though I'm free

Heal the wound but leave the scar
A reminder of how merciful You are
I am broken, torn apart
Take the pieces of this heart
And heal the wound but leave the scar

I have not lived a life that boasts of anything
I don't take pride in what I bring
But I'll build an altar with
The rubble that You've found me in
And every stone will sing
Of what You can redeem

Heal the wound but leave the scar
A reminder of how merciful You are
I am broken, torn apart
Take the pieces of this heart
And heal the wound but leave the scar

Don't let me forget
Everything You've done for me
Don't let me forget
The beauty in the suffering

Heal the wound but leave the scar
A reminder of how merciful You are
I am broken, torn apart
Take the pieces of this heart
And heal the wound but leave the scar

One Heartbeat at a Time

So often as mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and mentors we feel as if we are just not doing enough.

Shaping these precious souls entrusted to us is a daunting task that often takes years to see its fruits.

It's easy to get lost in the day to day busyness and wonder if we are truly making a difference.

This morning, I was blessed by a song that brought a tear to my eye along with "rewind" pushes at least 6 times.

We must remember we ARE changing the world as we mold His children.  Each moment, word, and smile will, one day, create someone who WILL "rock this world for Him". 

As many of the Mother's Day pictures are getting developed and placed in albums, I thought I'd share the beautiful song and lyrics to Steven Curtis Chapman's "One Heartbeat at a Time".

• Use some of the words as your place Mother's Day pictures in your albums
• Journal how your own mother / grandmother / mentor changed the world through her children
• Journal your prayers and dreams of your own children / loved ones changing the world
• Use the chorus in a baby album as a gift to a new mother
• Include Isaiah 40:11 ~ He tends His flock like a Shepherd and carries His lambs close to His heart.  He gently leads those that have young

Lord, give us the perseverance to press on and make the most of each moment as we "make history with every touch and smile"

*** Just a little technical note:  I am super excited...I just figured out how to insert the songs into these posts ~ so, cruise through the Songs and Poems Category and now actually hear the songs I have shared.

One Heartbeat at a Time ~ Steven Curtis Chapman

You're up all night with a screaming baby
You run all day at the speed of life
And every day you feel a little bit less
Like the beautiful woman you are

So you fall into bed when you run out of hours
And you wonder if anything worth doing got done
Oh, maybe you just don't know
Or maybe you've forgotten

You, you are changing the world
One little heartbeat at a time
Making history with every touch and every smile
Oh, you, you may not see it now
But I believe that time will tell
How you, you are changing the world
One little heartbeat at a time

With every "I know you can do it"
Every tear that you kiss away
So many little things that seem to go unnoticed
They're just like the drops of rain over time
They become a river

And you, you are changing the world
One little heartbeat at a time
Making history with every touch and every smile
Oh, you, you may not see it now
But I believe that time will tell
How you, you are changing the world
One little heartbeat at a time

You're beautiful
You're beautiful
How you're changing the world
You're changing the world

You, you are changing the world
One little heartbeat at a time
Making history with every touch and every smile
Oh, you, you may not see it now
But I believe that time will tell
How you, you are changing the world
Oh, I believe that you
You are changing the world
One little heartbeat
At a time

And you're changing the world

Beautiful Feet

"How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news" ~ Rom 10:15

"Direct my footsteps according to your word..." ~ Psalm 119:133

"He will not let you foot slip..." ~ Psalm 121:3

There are not many things more beautiful in this world than children's feet.  And, at the risk of sounding kinda odd, when I look at the feet of my parents, I am touched by where those feet have been and how those feet have impacted my life. 

Pictures or imprints of feet have a perfect place in our albums. They represent a future and a promise.  They prove God's amazing creative works.  They are what take us down the path He has for us.

I challenge you to make a "Beautiful Feet Page" in your album.  Although it may not be a 'typical' page, think of the words, stories and prayers of legacy you could leave.  Then, e-mail me your "Beautiful Feet Page" so I can share them in an upcoming album on this site.

• Use one of the scriptures listed above as a border around a picture or collage
• Include a prayer for where you pray your loved one's feet will take them in the future
• Journal your praises for where the feet have been:  include the actions as well as the places (mission trips, college, supporting and raising a family, sports achievements, ministries, etc)
• Do you have special memories / feelings about your loved one's feet? (Story time, kicking a football in the back yard, reminding you of the miracle of life, etc)
• If your loved one is insecure about their feet / toes you can place a wide ribbon or make a card to place over their toes (write a scripture on it, their name, or a special saying)
• If you don't have / are unable to get a picture of the feet, make them through stickers, tracing, die-cuts or clip art, then use the suggestions above to complete the page
• Instead of a picture, make an imprint on a piece of paper with an ink pad
• Create a page using these prompts for any special shoes (first pair, athletic goals, special days or meetings).  Go to the shoe rack and take pictures of the shoes owned by your family and journal special moments or thoughts about each pair.
• Create a mini-album for a child about the parts of our body and how each of those parts was created for a special purpose and how they can serve God
• Create a page about sitting at Christ's Feet ~ journal when you feel closest to Him, do you sit at His feet for wisdom, guidance, strength or peace?
• Challenge your scrapping group, family members or friends to make a "Beautiful Feet Page" and then share them the next time you get together.
• And, next time you look at your feet, give them a little pat for all they have been in your life ~ even if you do need a pedicure :~)
• If you can't make the page today, just file the thoughts, imprint, or picture away with all those Precious Papers, and make some Journey Jots to be used later.   And, remember, It is OK to be out of order!

**I found this precious image at AllPosters.com

A Gift ~ Through Eternal Glasses

For months my son had bugged reminded me what he wanted for his birthday....Guitar Hero III~ It was a daily, and sometimes hourly, discussion.

He even talked me into this shirt that said "My Mom Rocks" ~ I think that was a little sweet talking going on, even through a shirt :~)

How could I begin to dream of giving him anything else. 

So, of course, there was a Wii Guitar Hero III for a certain 12 year old's birthday.

Then, we saw what was on the screen......

In short ~ one of the levels in Guitar Hero III is called "Battle for Your Soul" and, it has songs such as "The Number of the Beast" and "Raining Blood".  Images of Satan were sprinkled all over the game ~ at one point the player even battles Satan in order to advance to the next level.

As I watched this play out in my living room, all I could think was "Christ died a horrible death so we would never have to see Satan, and now, we are playing with him."

My heart was torn ~ how could I think of returning this game.....Yet how could I not?

I thank the Lord for a child who had a heart tender enough to hear his parents' concerns and be willing to return his game ~ Praise God for our children and how the He can speak to their hearts. 

Now a PS2 Guitar Hero 'Rock the Eighties' sits by our TV ~ it may not be the newest and greatest out there, but, Satan has been put back in his place ~ out of my home.

That gift incident has made me think a lot about the gifts we give and the love / thought / impact / stories behind them.  There is so much more that can be added to our pages with pictures of gift exchanges:

• Why was the gift requested / given / chosen / perfect for the receiver or from the giver?
• Is there any eternal significance / statement / story that can give you the opportunity to point towards Christ on that page?
• Was there a sacrifice made to make the gift possible?  Include the appreciation of God's work to allow the gift
• As you or your loved one use and enjoy the gift, is there something that can be included about Christ or your prayers for your future generations
• How can the gift be used for good / potential eternal purpose?  Include a prayer revolving around the gift and its potential

Wow, think about the difference we can make with a few added words.  The next time you make a gift giving / receiving page ~ look at the pictures through "Eternal Impact Glasses".

**And, if you are a parent whose child plays Guitar Hero III, any video game for that matter, just take an hour or so to look at it ~ make sure you are comfortable with the images and the message that your child is seeing.  And, please know, that I hope not to offend anyone in any way.  I realize there will be some 'world' in these video games, as parents we just have to decide how much 'world' the Lord would want us to allow in our home.

Music to Impact Eternity!

I came to Houston to visit my husband during this crazy transition ~ but, man, did the Lord have a bonus planned!  I got to see Natalie Grant in person today!!!

For anyone who knows me, they know there are few people here on earth I'd rather meet than this amazing woman.  Her songs have touched and literally changed my life and who I believe God wants me to be.  I've even named my blog from one of her songs!  So, while I may not have been one of those screaming Elvis fans, I sure was, to be honest, giddy when I found out she would be here in town!

What does this have to do with scrapping you ask ~ well, where do I start?...

• So much of who I am, who I struggle to not be, and, how I try to see myself as He sees me has been formed through her music ~ As I sat at the concert, I had the thought that those songs, struggles, and victories would make some great pages.  And, I am sure you have life changing / forming songs too ~ share those:  Use the words along with the words, stories and prayers.  You can even include a CD with the song in the pocket (See an example).  The song words, along with your journaled words can impact eternity for your loved ones!
• As I have shared in many previous posts, in the Songs and Poems category, create an album designated just for music / songs that have impacted you and help tell the story of who you are and your journey to a legacy
• As I saw my daughter be so excited with meeting Natalie, I was deeply touched to see a woman impacting a little girl in such a huge, potentially eternal way.  What started as a 'trip to see Mommy's favorite singer' turned out to be an event my daughter will remember for a long time.  When I create the page with the pictures from today, that desire for my daughter to follow in His path and be a woman who serves Him will be as much as a part of the page as the who / what / and when of the day
• If you have a teen daughter, I strongly urge you to find when the Revolve Tour is coming to town, and, take your daughter.  I kept threatening to put a wig on my son and take him this weekend to the Houston Revolve!  :~)

To learn and hear more about Natalie Grant, check out her My Space ~ she seemed to be real and passionate about His love and grace.

So, thanks so much to Natalie for being the highlight of my trip to Houston ( we won't tell my husband that)  :~)

Also, a BIG THANK YOU to Chad Prince of Artistic Christian Photography for the awesome pictures.  If you live in the Houston area and are in need of a photographer, contact him at talkwithchadtoday@yahoo.com   

His Word ~ So Many Translations: So Much Power

A couple days ago my 12 year old son was looking through a King James Version of the Bible, and, showed me a verse he'd found that really spoke to him.

Then, he asked me a great question:  "What is your favorite verse in this version?"

I answered his question, and thanked him for a great post idea!!  :~)

That is a wonderful bit of us that is so important to share ~ we are careful to put His Word in our albums, but, what about including a peak into our heart concerning the different versions and translations?  I have quite a few verses that I have tucked away in my heart in different translations for specific reasons ~ and, I'm sure you do too?

• Do you have a favorite version / translation?
• Do you read a specific version for a specific reason?
• Do you cross-reference different versions during your study?  Why?  How?
• Create a page of your favorite scripture(s) in different translations
• Share any verses that speak to you in specific versions and why you favor that particular wording
• Create a page with the verse in stickers, die-cuts or fancy fonts and journal the reason that verse and version is special to you
• Devote an entire album to sharing your favorite verses:  Include the verse, version, story, peace, power, intervention, inspiration, time in your life, change in your life, or faith you find in the verse
• Use the Unto All Generations Books to find a scripture that is appropriate for your page, then, cross-reference that verse with different versions to find one that best fits the pictures and page 
• Since that day my son asked me the question, I have asked many people if they have favorite verses in specific versions ~ and, it has been interesting and touching to hear their responses.  Next time you are sitting around the dinner table or at a family gathering ask the question and jot down the answers to put beside the pictures of those individuals or from that events

His Word has so much power ~ be sure to include it in your albums, no matter what version!

He's Every Season

With the move to Houston, I think I am some mild mourning for my Ohioan change of seasons.  :~)   Fall is the absolute most beautiful time of year.  It reminds me we serve a God of enormous creativity and love.

I heard this song today, and, thought it'd be a great one on a page with pictures of my home in the changing seasons. 

To deepen the faith in the page, include journaling:

• How the Lord has guided you through your seasons of life.
• How has the Lord made you a new creation
• Pick a stanza or verse that touches you and journal additional details
• Include details about your favorite season and why

Every Season by Nicole Nordeman (from This Mystery Album)

Every evening sky, an invitation
To trace the patterned stars
And early in July, a celebration
For freedom that is ours
And I notice You
In children's games
In those who watch them from the shade
Every drop of sun is full of fun and wonder
You are summer

And even when the trees have just surrendered
To the harvest time
Forfeiting their leaves in late September
And sending us inside
Still I notice You when change begins
And I am braced for colder winds
I will offer thanks for what has been and was to come
You are autumn

And everything in time and under heaven
Finally falls asleep
Wrapped in blankets white, all creation
Shivers underneath
And still I notice you
When branches crack
And in my breath on frosted glass
Even now in death, You open doors for life to enter
You are winter

And everything that's new has bravely surfaced
Teaching us to breathe
What was frozen through is newly purposed
Turning all things green
So it is with You
And how You make me new
With every season's change
And so it will be
As You are re-creating me
Summer, autumn, winter, spring

You're a Mom!

I found a great Christmas present for your kids ~ as well as some great words for our scrapbooks.

The Go Fish Guys is an amazing group with a mission to create "Great music for kids that won't drive parents bonkers".  You can hear some clips from their CDs here.  We found these guys earlier this week, and, my kids are hooked.  Their newest CD ~ Snazzy can be heard in the next town over as my kids jam down the road.  The cool thing, is, I find myself singing right along with them ~ and, it is music and words that is perfect for ears of all ages!

Below, I have included the song and words to "You're a Mom" ~ You can imagine how my heart was touched to hear all 4 'jamming' and singing the words at the top of their lungs. 

These words would be great along side a picture of a mom with here kids, perhaps surrounded by toys or kids.  Journal how the words make you feel as a mom, or about your own mother.  What special things make you know you are a mom?  In what ways did your mom let you know she loved you?  How has being a mother changed your life?  How does the Bible help you / show you how to shape these little souls?  Journal your passion for your children to take up the Bible and your desire to show its teachings in your own life.

I have the words typed out in Word and will use them on the next page with pix of me and my kids ~ with these lines highlighted! The Bible that you hold Can shape these little souls.

You also can check out 2 great videos from the Go Fish Guys: Christmas with a Capital C is cute, and It's About the Cross is powerful!

May you Moms Enjoy!!  :~)

You're a Mom ~ by The Go Fish Guys

If you have a stroller

But you’re still a rock and roller

You’re a mom

If you’re tired of doing dishes

And you know who Elmo’s fish is

You’re a mom

(Chorus)

You’re the boss, the driver

The ultimate survivor

A doctor, a cooker

You’re man thinks you’re a looker

If you work all day

But you never get paid

You’re a mom

If you need a sick day

But instead you’re gonna play

You’re a mom

If your first occupation

Sounds like a sweet vacation

You’re a mom

If your living room floor

Looks like a toy store

You’re a mom

(Chorus)

You’re the boss, the driver

The ultimate survivor

A doctor, a cooker

You’re man thinks you’re a looker

If you work all day

But you never get paid

You’re a mom

If you mean the whole world

To a little boy or girl

You’re a mom

The Bible that you hold

Can shape these little souls

You’re a mom

If you have the most important job in the world

You’re a mom

A Scrapbooker's Christmas List

It's Christmas ~ and, us Scrapbookers have a list too :~) 

So, I thought I'd send Scrapbookers Bubble Bath's annual Scrapbookers Christmas List of Links and gift ideas for you to pass on to YOUR Santa.

Of course, the most exciting for me personally is the Unto All Generations Series ~ Available December 7th in all 3 formats: as a download, auto-run CD, and printed.  The CDs are very economical and make great gifts to wrap up for your favorite Scrapbooker.

Also, don't forget that Christian FaithScrappers will be open any day ~ ready for you to shop for Christian Scrapbooking Supplies as gifts to put under the tree ~ perhaps pick up even a few for yourself :~)

Here is a list of some great prices on Scrapping Products ~ You're sure to find something for your list here ~ at a great price!  :~)  (Of course there is no way this list can be all inclusive, and, I know there are lots of sites I am missing, so, if you have any other you'd like to share, please just click down to the comments, and, add your favorite place to shop.)

• Memory Miser ~ great place for die-cutting supplies
• Frugalities ~ kinda fun place ~ different discounts daily up to 49%!!
• Scrapbook Corner ~ great selection and good prices
• Custom Crops ~ I like her prices and colors :~)

The Scrapsack is a nifty little bag and helpful for those who travel and scrap.

If you don't have the Cricut by ProvoCraft ~ it is a must have! I just love mine, and, wish I had more time to play with it :~) I have seen that even some Wal-Marts are selling them for $118 with a limited edition cartridge!

And now, ProvoCraft keeps dipping into our pockets: tempting us with cooler and better products.....

First, the Cricut Design Studio ~ this program allows you to hook your cricut to the computer and play even more ~ amazing, and, with ENDLESS possibilities!

Of course, the list of over 40 cartridges is too endless to mention, but, if you have a Princess lover, there are 2 new Disney Princess cartridges, as well as awesome font cartridges for fall and winter.  I've heard that AC Moore and even Wal-Mart are carrying these, so, shop around for the good sales.

There are now Colored Markers available to use with your Cricut instead of the cutting blade ~ the machine will draw a colored line where it would have made a cut!

And, finally, and, biggest of all, there is now The Expression which can cut up to 23.5 inch letters as well as do some completely cool tricks!  Can we say Scrapbooker's Gluttony?   Well, perhaps you can justify it by making a few BIG Happy Birthday and Anniversary signs for your husband :~) 

Here are some of the best prices I've heard and seen to find the Cricut products on your list: 

• Hallmark Scrapbook ~ I think the Cricut product prices are one of the best you will find ~ The Expression is only $299 here! I also have read good things about their customer service on message boards.
• Wal-Mart ~ If you are lucky enough to find them, some of their cartridges are at $30!
• BargainPack ~ Through December their Design Studio looks like it is the cheapest at $59!!
• Creative Express ~ they have cartridges on sale: buy 4 get each for $27
• AC Moore ~ I have read that they are selling The Expression for $299 to $379, AND, it comes with 4 cartridges, a set of markers and a mat!!!  If you have one near you, keep your eyes open for that SUPER sale.  If you DO have one near you, I'm jealous :~)
• E-Bay ~ If you do not have the personal Cricut, there are some Cricut addicts that bought the Wal-Mart exclusive package, took out the special cartridge, and, now need to sell the new machine on E-bay before their husbands find out :~)  You can get a great deal there ~ just do it in the next week or so before they sell all their stashes.

That's all the deal sharing I have for you this year ~ next year I will be typing my Scrapbooker's Christmas List of Links in warmer weather :~)

**** PS ~ For Faithbooking Inspirations subscribers ~ for some reason, the last post, (Our Scrapbooks ~ Our Love Letters) didn't go out to my email box ~ if you didn't receive it either, here is the link.  It is an important reminder of why we scrapbook and have these Christmas Lists :~)

Ordinary Miracles

"Pleasure can be found in the world's ordinary miracles"

I found this on the top of a Daisy Sour Cream container, and, thought it would be a beautiful saying in our scrapbooks!

I took this picture on a hike with the kids ~ it's a weed ~ but, man, it was just so beautiful, and, lavender :~)

Our day and world is full of ordinary miracles ~ May you take pleasure in them this week and the rest of the holiday season!

Often, our albums are full of the 'special' days and moments, however, we must be sure to catch the everyday and ordinary part of our lives ~ Truly, those moments are more what make us who we are than the big, special ones.  As I mentioned in a post in 2006 ~ The Mundane is the Legacy Too. 

Use this saying:

• In the front of an album
• A page of 'a day in the life of' pictures
• Nature
• Our family that we so often take for granted
• Before and after of anything from a room, to weight loss, to graduation, to the growth of a child
• A time in your life when the Lord revealed a specific plan for you
• Anything in your life that the Lord shows you is part of His beautiful and wildly amazing world

Capture Fall!

I have just found out that Houston doesn't have the beautiful fall that Ohio has!!  Man, are they missing out on such beauty or what!

Fall in my part of the world is such a beautifully breathtaking time of year ~ if I doubt His creativity, all I need do is peek out my window today.

Since I won't be seeing it again, I created my own fall tree in my son for Halloween ~ kinda funny to see him up against the trees.  My little hot-glued fake pile of leaves held up pretty good to all the candy-begging.  :~)

Fall has the most amazing combinations of colors in His world ~ be sure to capture them in one way or another in your albums.

For ideas on on how to use and preserve the beauty of leaves in your album read Get Those Leaves Quick and Colorful Leaf Copies

In your albums, take the opportunity to journal your feelings about nature. Our loved ones will see Him if they read our words of love and awe for His creation:

• Look around your area of the world and take pictures of how you know fall is here.
• If you don't have the changing leaves in your part of the world, journal your desire to experience the beauty and how you feel when you see pictures of fall.
• Do you have any special fall memories as a child?
• What do you believe the Lord is saying through the beauty of fall?
• Do you have a favorite tree to see or place to visit in the fall?
• Do you / did you like jumping in leaves?  Any special memories of leaf piles and raking?
• Don't forget to use scripture about His creation ~ Look up Nature in your Unto All Generations
• The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our Lord stands forever ~ Isaiah 40:8
• Creation and Creatures applaud you, GOD ~ Psalm 145:10

One quick P.S. about the Eternal Splashes store ~ since I paid the host through November, I figured I'd leave it open through November 30th.  So, pass on the word and, perhaps do some great Christmas shopping for your favorite scrapper.  For wonderful faithbooking supplies for your fall pictures, check out the Crossed Paths Harvest Line.

He is "I Am"

Thought I'd share my page created from the "I Am" He Keeps Us Devotional just to encourage you to sit down and make one of your own.

I journaled what His name means to me, as well as a few other names I whisper as I pray and go through my day.

There are so many songs that speak the beauty of His name ~ they all say it so much better than I could ever express on my own....

I had two options ~ make a video of me singing them.....however, with the extreme lack of talent, my fear is that no one would ever look at my albums again :~)

Instead, I thought it better to choose to make a CD of others singing my favorite versions of "Something About That Name", "His Name is Wonderful", "Your Name", "I Am", etc.

Two ideas to point out:

1. Create a page focusing on the Name of Jesus, or His names you most treasure ~ if you need the I Am Devotional, just email me, and, I'll send it your way
2. Burn CDs for any music you would like to include in your albums for special songs, or songs used to create pages such as some of these posted earlier: 

• Why ~ For You and Your Legacy
• Your Growin' Up Music
• My Wish
• Special Songs for Special Someone

Make a pocket for the CD, or use the paper CD sleeves you can get at any office store to include a CD of songs from your childhhod, dating times, worship songs, favorite songs, most cherished hymns, etc.

Of course, not sure how long the CDs will work with the progress of our world ~ I'm sure there will come a day when they will be as outdated as 8-tracks, but, they'll be treasured even then :~) 

He Loves Us ~ And, He Showed It

A couple months ago I agreed to do a small 'break-out session' for a faithbooking retreat a few hours away......Anyone who knows me knows that this was a huge step for me, since speaking in front of groups is one of my top 2 fears, right up there with flying!!

And, in the Lord's "I have a plan for you" way, and, unknowing to me, I evolved into the featured speaker for the retreat ~ yikes!  :~)

But, I must share with you that this little "misunderstanding" has blessed my life beyond words.....

As I have prepared for the weekend sessions, I have had a renewed sense of passion and urgency for us to share our stories, faith and legacy.  We MUST record our love for our family and Christ ~ whether it be in our albums or simple journals, get that love documented!

Most touching to me has been creating the pages for the session in which I was asked to share the gospel.  What started as a complete humble panic for me has touched my heart in beatutiful ways.  As I have made pages that perhaps Christ would make, were HE a scrapbooker, I have been reminded and amazed by His love for me, and all the world.  His love for us was so much greater than we can even begin to imagine ~ While we try to express our love through our albums, He did it so much more beautifully on the cross.

Have you created a page to share the depth of HIS love for you and your family? 

• It can be as simple as a picture of the cross and a scripture such as John 3:16.
• Do an internet image search of Christ, Jesus, or the Cross
• Print a copy of a cross and share the story of His life / love / gift
• There are a few pictures from the Passion of the Christ movie that can help bring a reality to your page that may touch someone in a special way
• Use drawings of Christ with children to journal His love for His children
• Use one of With You Always drawings for you or your loved one's profession and share His love and presence is with us always ~ I LOVE these!!  Take a quick moment to read the artist's story
• Write a letter to your family or each of your loved ones from Him

In absolutely NO way do I think we can even begin to verbalize or document the depth of His love for us. However, I do believe we can use His Story to make an eternal impact through our albums.  The pictures and moments of Christ's birth, life, death and resurrection are ones that we can, and, MUST share with future generations.

He showed His love for us through the cross ~ share that Story in your albums and journals ~ it WILL impact someone's life for eternity.

Jesus and the Twin Towers

I just found this on the web while looking for pictures to use for a Faithbooking weekend I am speaking at, and, thought I'd share it ~ Wish I'd had it for the September 11 Posts.

This would be a beautiful picture to print and use on your page to tell your September 11, 2001 story.

If you already made a page using previous suggestions, and you still would like to use the picture, perhaps use some other suggestions below:

• **Journal how 9-11-01 continues to impact your life now
• **Share how your believe He works even in the seemingly most difficult moments
• **Journal your thoughts on the war ~ include your prayer for the country

This picture was found on Deacon Tony's Place

My Day on That Day

I, along with others, awoke this morning with mixed emotions as we face the first Tuesday, September 11th since 2001.

For months, I feared Tuesdays ~ that was a day that we were all changed forever.

Be sure to take time to make a page for your family about that day ~ Here is a post with some ideas to get you started.  If you didn't do it then, do it this year.

That day changed each of us ~ share it with future generations.

** Here is the link to an amazing picture I found in October that you can use on your page

What a Wonderful World

Just sharing something pretty amazing ~ If only I could be so talented :~)

Today, may you find yourself able to stop and enjoy What a Wonderful World we have

Scrapbooking Inspiration from this....hmmmm.....how about:

"In your albums be sure to share, and encourage others, to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the simple things in this world"

Lost in This Moment With You

 

Lost in This Moment With You ~ as an excited and proud dad takes his daughter to her dream store to give her a special birthday gift

Lost in This Moment With You ~ as a grandpa, who lives far away, celebrates his birthday with his precious grandchildren

Lost in This Moment with You ~ as a son runs home to show his dad that he received dad's jersey number

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As I woke this morning trying to think of the next post because I'm working on something behind the scenes that I am not ready to reveal yet :~),  the lyrics to Lost in This Moment With You by Big and Rich were running through my head.

This is a perfect wedding song, so, of course, the lyrics would be beautiful in the front of an album or with pictures of the groom, but, I had a thought......

There are so many other moments that we get lost in with our loved ones ~ Here are just a few I thought of.  Do you have any others?  Share yours in the comments below!

• The birth of a child
• The moment two have reached a goal that has been a work in progress
• The first day in a new home
• Giving a special gift to a loved one
• See, the pictures are endless

Use "Lost in This Moment With You" as a title, then journal why that moment is so special.  Journal the feelings, journey, pride, words and details of the picture and situation.

I have also included the song and lyrics below in case you want to copy and paste them in a wedding album or engagement page.

And, what am I working on behind the scenes?  I ain't tellin' until at least the first part if it is done :~)

*******************************

Lost in Your Moment With You by Big and Rich

See your momma, and the candles and tears and roses
I see your daddy walk his daughter down the isle
Now my knees start to tremble as I tell the preacher
Don’t she look beautiful tonight
All the wonderful words in my head I’ve been thinking
You know I want to say ‘em all just right
I lift your vale, and angles start singing
Such a heavenly sign

Chorus
Lost in this moment with you
I am completely consumed
My feelings so absolute, there’s no doubt
Sealing our love with a kiss
Waitin’ my whole life for this
Watching all my dreams come true
Lost in this moment with you

I smell the jasmine floating in the air like a love song
Watch my words draw sweet tears from your eyes
Bow our heads while the preacher talks to Jesus
Please bless this brand new life

Chorus
Lost in this moment with you
I am completely consumed
My feelings so absolute, there’s no doubt
Sealing our love with a kiss
Waitin’ my whole life for this
Watching all my dreams come true
Lost in this moment with you

Thank You!

Just a quick entry to say THANK YOU for your prayers, comments and emails!  You guys are amazing, and, your prayers were powerful.

I was so humbled by your response and words, and, it was very comforting for him to know that there were those praying literally around the world!

My dad did well, and, is on his way to recovery ~ what a miracle that present day medicine can perform such complicated surgeries.

On his way to surgery they put a silver shower cap on his head, and, he said, "You should take a picture for your scrapbook" ~ now, that's my dad!  :~)

As we looked at some albums last night, I found this poem, and, thought I'd pass it on.  Write it down, put it with your scrappping or card making supplies.

Papa Doesn't Care

My ice cream dripped on his good pants, but Papa doesn't care.

His fishing tackles tangled up, his rod is who knows where?

I lost his keys in the garage, Ive made a mess out there.

I'm always getting into things, but Papa doesn't care.

I help him in the garden 'cause we're really quite a pair;

I pull the plants out with the weeds, but Papa doesn't care.

When I'm grown and on my own, when visits become rare,

I won't forget the love I'd get when Papa didn't care.  (author unknown)

I typed this in Word, changed the font to a children's handwriting font, and used this under a picture of my kids fishing with my dad ~ perfect!

Again, thanks so much for your prayers guys ~ you are amazing, and, touched us with your words!

HE Makes the Birds Sing!

It is no secret in my family I am a bird lover!  They are so free, and, depend solely on His provision and guidance for their every need. 

In fact, my kids can identify the calls and makes of many birds ~ guess I am wearing off on them :~)

This morning as I sat on my deck, listening to the morning singing from my winged friends, I read His praises in Psalm 104, and, found this:

"The birds of the air nest by the waters; they sing among the branches" (Psalm 104:12)

What a perfect verse for a page with pictures of birds!  Not sure how I missed it for the Unto All Generations ~ Scriptures for Scrapbooking series, so, you may want to add it at the bottom or back of a page in Animals or Nature / Creation.

And, for my fellow bird-watchers, here are some journaling ideas to add to your pages with your bird pictures:

• Journal why you enjoy birds
• What made you first interested in bird-watching?
• Which bird species is your favorite?  Why?
• What has been your most exciting / favorite sighting?  Why?
• How do you feel when you hear their song?
• How do you feel when your family members share in your excitement / watching?
• Which bird seed and feeder do you favor?  For which birds?
• Do you have a field guide?  Which one?  Why?
• Journal your prayer to be like the birds and have your own complete dependence on Him for your every need

** I love this picture ~ it is an American Goldfinch in spring, just beginning to get his beautiful bright yellow summer coat ~ isn't God amazing!

Friends Forever

My husband surprised me Saturday with a 40th birthday party with my college friends from over 15 years ago!!!  Words can not begin to express my thoughts as I came in my front door, and, looked up the top of the foyer to see those who shared the most transforming days of my life ~ Some I haven't seen or talked to in 10 years!

Our husbands let us sit and just talk for 2 days straight ~ Allowing us to catch up on how life had blessed us and dealt us some hard blows.  And, throughout the weekend, at various points, someone could be heard saying how nice it was to be around those who were like-minded in our faith, our family, our parenting, and our purpose.

Between the 6 of us girls, we have managed to supply MVNU with a good number of potential students :~)  And, it was truly beautiful to watch these kids, many whom had never met, come together and play so well that they were asking if we could do this every weekend!  Guess it was just in their genes :~)

Those 2 days were such wonderful reminders that there are others like me ~ women who love the Lord with all their heart and just want to serve Him while raising children to love Him too.  He reminded me that I was blessed with such beautiful friends.  He reminded me that He loved me enough to bring them into my life not only for those short 4 years, but, for the rest of my life! These women shaped me and impacted my life as much as my parents.  These precious souls taught me the good and bad about myself, about true friendships, and, about faith in Him. They truly made me who I am today.

After they left Sunday I had a couple of hours to sort through a box of pictures my dad had just brought me.  And, in that box were my college pictures!  I couldn't believe it.  It was so surreal for me to look at these pictures of the girls who had just left.  I truly laughed and cried as I held these snapshots of moments that changed our lives forever. 

To be honest, I was a little disappointed in myself that I, the one who preaches "get those memories preserved and moments journaled," was not able to pull those pictures out at the moment we were all together.  I didn't even know where to begin to look.  How much fun it would have been if we could have looked at those together.  So, here is my challenge to each of you......

Get your pictures gathered up tonight and get sorting tomorrow.  I'm not saying scrapbook yet ~ that mountain for many of us is too big.  I am just suggesting you get them together and get them organized enough that you can at least know what 100 pictures to grab if you are in search of a particular one.  Here are a few organizing tips to get you started:

• Bring all your pictures together in one place ~ don't worry yet about which pack or box is which
• Get a photo-safe box ~ these can be purchased for pretty cheap at a craft store
• Many photo boxes come with tabbed inserts, or purchase some
• Create some tabs relative to ways you can organize your life
• I use my schooling (high and junior-high, college, graduate), houses (Glendale, Woodrow, apartment) and moments (wedding, graduation, birth of each child, vacation)
• Grab a pile of pictures and start sorting ~ adding appropriate tabs as you find new divisions
• Don't worry about some cross-over, just try to think how you think...If you know you are looking for a particular picture later, you will find it, if you just think like yourself :~)
• If you want to use post-it notes to jot down notes and stick to the back of the pictures as you sort, you can, but, I don't take the time ~ I figure if I remember it now 15 years later, I'll remember it when I scrapbook it  :~)
• Sort while you watch TV, while you are sitting on the deck, waiting for the water to boil, or, set a goal of even just 20 a day ~ just start sorting now, not after you wish you had known where those pictures were!
• Once they are sorted, get them in albums ~ don't fancy-dancy the pages ~ just get those pictures in and those memories and words preserved.  You can bet I won't get caught again with my pictures stashed :~) 
• If you are looking for wonderful scriptures about friendship, Christmas, or children, we are offering all 10 Pure-D-Scripture Stickers, usually $2.50, on featured sale through June 23, for $1.50.

I also urge you to call your special friend(s) today ~ they are such precious gifts that we don't open fully up when we allow ourselves to get caught up in the day to day.  You can bet I was already back on the phone with my roomie last night ~ my husband just shook his head and said "You're talking to her already?"  :~)

And, to my precious friends, I love you, and, thanks so much for coming this weekend, and for being a part of my life (again)!

What an Exciting Day!!

Wow, my big 4-0 birthday is here, and, words can not begin to express the joy I feel ~ not in the turning 40, but, in the blessings from Him in the 40 years I have been here!

Turning 40 makes you look where you've been and where you are headed, and, I can say with all my heart, that I am truly excited about the road ahead!!  And, here's why....

****

****

1. As promised, Unto All Generations III ~ A Legacy to Eternity, is ready and in the cart! ~ I think I am more excited to see the impact this book can make than did Volumes I and II.  My goal for Volume III was to teach and guide you towards making albums that will make an eternal impact by giving you practical ideas ~ I am earnestly praying that as you use the book, you will feel that goal was achieved.  (Read more and download a sample from the Unto All Generations III ~ A Legacy to Eternity)  This price for the 140 page book will be only $17.99 ~ but it is on sale through July 8th for $12.99 ~ so, pass the word quickly!
2. And, as also promised, SBB has a super steppin' out on faith announcement ~ Through much prayer and in seeking His desire for how SBB can help your albums become thier own mission fields, On September 2nd, 2007, we will be opening a Christian Scrapbooking Supplies Store ~ Eternal Splashes!!!! So far, this has been an amazing experience as I pray He shows me the next stone, I step on it, and, He then shows me the next one.  You'll need to be patient with us as we alter the SBB site, organize the product, and, more importantly, I spend time with my precious 4 this summer.  But, I believe amazing things are ahead, and, providing scrapbooking supplies that point to Him is the perfect next step for SBB! (If you have any products or special requests you would like to see on the site, please email me and, I will do my best to help)
3. With the new venture, I am also working on making the SBB sites with more "clicks" and less "words" ~ my original intent was for the site be relaxing, and, I believe some changes can be made to the site to become more new-user friendly.  Let me know what you think of the coming changes, and, have a beautiful 4th of July!!

Please know that you all have been such a large part of my blessing praises, and, I thank you for coming into my life and being a part of this mission He has set before me!

Well, I'm gonna go eat some cake with lots of buttercream icing, grab a few Mint Double Stuff Oreos and my Diet Coke while I watch the fireworks and look forward to the 2nd half of this wild and wonderful life He has blessed me with!

Fabric Embellishments ~ Update

A couple of months ago I made a post about using special fabrics in your albums ~ And, I did end up making a beautiful page using the curtain fabric from my last home. 

However, I thought I'd quickly pass on this warning, ideas and info that I just found this morning.  I really like the idea of using paper between the pictures and fabric and doing a "fade test".

I believe in being very careful what we do put in our albums since we want them to last forever and we spend so much time finally getting those pages done!  :~)

The Tooth Fairy ~ II

My daughter lost her tooth a couple of weeks ago, and, somehow I managed to get this picture ~ the tooth, still attached to the floss and doorknob, flying through the air!!! 

Everytime I see this I just have to laugh ~ I couldn't have planned it any better ~ this will go down as a classic picture in our family :~)

As I was working on the Unto All Generations ~ Volume III "Lost Tooth" entry this morning, I thought of this picture, and, how much I am looking forward to scrapping it.  This just may have to be one of those pictures that are blown-up to 5x7 and earn its own page! :~) 

So, thought I'd share my excitement in this picture, and, UAG III as I see it in its final stages.  UAG III can still be pre-ordered for $10.99 to ensure you receive it on my 40th birthday, July 4th!  Here's the Lost Tooth entry (Download uag_vol_iii_lost_tooth_sample.xls) I finished this morning just to give you a rough idea of what the format will be. Be sure to email me with any questions or last minute entries you'd like to see.

Keep shooting those pictures, you just never know when you will catch a one in a million shot like this one!  :~)

~ See Faithbooking Inspirations entry "Tooth Fairy ~ I" 

How to Say Goodbye

Summer is here, and, my kids are growing :~)

As I sorted laundry this morning, I was praying for the coming summer and how to be sure I intentionally take time for the special moments with my kids.  Somewhere between the baseball pants and dirty socks, I heard the info about this song on the radio, and, I literally stopped sorting and searched for it. 

It touched my OCD perfectionist personality to the core ~ I know sometimes I get so caught up in "doing" that I miss the "stopping".  In fact, as I typed this, my daughter came down, and, I stopped typing for that extra minute of a hug!!!

As summer rumbles on down, and, we turn the calender quickly, be sure to stop, hold, and, cherish.  The time does fly, and, their dreams do take them far away from us.

Perhaps the video speaks so much more than the words, but, I promise, you need a tissue and will stop to think about the time that is flying by with your family.

Tell me when the time we had slipped away
tomorrow turned to yesterday
and I don't know how.

P.S. ~ These lyrics (in part or whole) would be great words in the front of a tribute, graduation, or going away album :~) 

The music & lyrics for Michal W. Smith's "How to Say Goodbye" are below ~

And, see the video here

Tell me when the time we had slipped away
tomorrow turned to yesterday
and I don't know how.
Tell me what can stop this river of tears
It's been building up for years
for this moment now.

Here I stand
Arms open wide.
I've held you close
kept you safe
till you could fly.

Tell me where the road ahead is gonna bend,
and how to harness up the wind,
and how to say goodbye.

Tell me why,
why does following your dreams
take you far away from me ~
and I knew that it would.

Tell me how to feel the space you left behind,
and how to laugh instead of cry,
and how to say goodbye

Here I stand
Arms open wide.
I've held you close,
kept you safe
till you could fly.

Tell me where the road ahead is gonna bend,
and how to harness up the wind,
and how to say goodbye.