tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87473806162479770472024-03-14T05:33:54.613-05:00Down On The FarmDown On The Farm
with Robbin GriffithDown On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.comBlogger597125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-20513131130337260432020-03-02T09:20:00.001-06:002020-03-02T09:21:03.507-06:00FabFitFunMy beautiful sister sent me an offer for a FabFitFun starter box!!! I really wasn't familiar with this service. I mean I'd heard about it, but didn't know what it was. My sister told me she had just received her first box and loved all of the products!! She felt it was a great value for the subscription price, so I signed up to get a starter box.<br />
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I got the box last week and wow, was I impressed!!!! I received 4 items in the starter box. A lovely little ceramic tray that I'm using to put my jewelry in when I wash dishes. A super cute little overnight makeup bag to use while traveling (and you know how much I love to travel)!!! I also received two beauty products that I LOVE!!<br />
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I got a TULA Probiotic Skincare cleanser that I've been using every night. It has a clean, fresh scent and really does a great job removing the makeup from my face!<br />
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I also got a Whish firming night mask that, again, I LOVE!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqwoMX_wWSjmx0P3LNePiqr0v5x3NNBykHsAaQ6_TNEREOT_lZxQnRv5OZcOLEVxnXXdDn1JVGX6EVeW6zvX7AehX3-YA5bgvN5n1DqKKzMh5goXRr_OX_2fzX9folcsCLVMBta77MpvkA/s1600/whish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="828" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqwoMX_wWSjmx0P3LNePiqr0v5x3NNBykHsAaQ6_TNEREOT_lZxQnRv5OZcOLEVxnXXdDn1JVGX6EVeW6zvX7AehX3-YA5bgvN5n1DqKKzMh5goXRr_OX_2fzX9folcsCLVMBta77MpvkA/s320/whish.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
So if you've been on the fence about joining the FabFit Fun subscription service, below is a link to give it a try!! I love it and I've already signed up for the Annual subscription. I can't WAIT to get my next box of new products!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://share.fabfitfun.com/x/S6tFE4" target="_blank">FabFitFun</a></span></div>
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Have a blessed day!!!<br />
<br />Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-84886879052317741682020-01-29T15:54:00.000-06:002020-02-04T10:40:59.812-06:00End of an Era<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sometime in the early morning hours of Sunday, January 26th, our brooder barn (the barn where the baby turkeys are started) burned to the ground.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To put things in perspective, this barn is 50' wide and 440' long. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGINvIhNulLpxXhEwHQXwDzzguHCopiGHJlksOXzhEwlv9FvgJEy7Frtr1vbWJU1SVVecO7dAXRJmPt0yx6LvYOR9NvZYbrkI5c_6jjC3H1xbRhazfTc-LS7oivCDoFtftVx_yILOdyJq/s1600/Fire+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGINvIhNulLpxXhEwHQXwDzzguHCopiGHJlksOXzhEwlv9FvgJEy7Frtr1vbWJU1SVVecO7dAXRJmPt0yx6LvYOR9NvZYbrkI5c_6jjC3H1xbRhazfTc-LS7oivCDoFtftVx_yILOdyJq/s400/Fire+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Since it was the middle of the night nobody was in the barn and we're thankful no one was injured.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We still have 3 turkey barns, the "grow out" barns, and they have turkeys in them. Once those birds ship out the end of February, we will be out of the turkey business. You can't raise turkeys without a brooder barn.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Due to their age, our turkey barns were not insured for replacement value, and the cost to rebuild is frankly a lot. So by the time we would build a new brooder barn and then work all those years to pay for the new building, it's just not worth it to us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Especially at our age!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is truly the end of an era for us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We've been raising turkeys for 22 years.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We knew the day would come when we didn't raise turkeys any longer because our barns are old and eventually they wear out. But we thought the decision would be ours to make, not made for us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But I know that the Lord has a plan and I trust Him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Please pray for God's wisdom as my husband and I embark on a new phase of life. We intend to focus on our beef cattle operation and hopefully do some traveling since we won't be tied to taking care of turkeys.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is truly the end of an era for us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But an era we're looking forward to </span></div>
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Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-50530954669944647252019-07-25T11:17:00.003-05:002019-07-25T11:17:40.175-05:00The Promise Is His Presence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0YxlZRPwe0MSb-iH1e3bmmUNmmNM_2rHuC79jAMKqDIbfj5rVY375DVWIu67CTuPGJ-Z_Y2Ymr3Zu9rLX50FcsxVwSUO1z5h4T9idllW3JEJPN5DNqvIfNMUxhTxWsbJjuPQHIO4KZq0/s1600/The+Promise.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="205" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0YxlZRPwe0MSb-iH1e3bmmUNmmNM_2rHuC79jAMKqDIbfj5rVY375DVWIu67CTuPGJ-Z_Y2Ymr3Zu9rLX50FcsxVwSUO1z5h4T9idllW3JEJPN5DNqvIfNMUxhTxWsbJjuPQHIO4KZq0/s320/The+Promise.webp" width="202" /></a></div>
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I attended a women's retreat in the spring of 2018 at Concord Baptist Church in Jefferson City, Missouri. My sweet friend Carrie who blogs over at <a href="https://farmingonfaith.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Farming On Faith</a> is the Women's Ministry Director at Concord Baptist, and she invited me to attend. A lady by the name of Glenna Marshall sang and played piano, and she also spoke during one of the sessions. I've been "following" Glenna on social media ever since and you can check out her blog <a href="http://www.glennamarshall.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. She is an amazing woman of God and I have been so very blessed by things she shares. God is using her in a mighty way!!!</div>
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Turns out, Glenna has written a book called "The Promise Is His Presence." </div>
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I received an advance PDF copy of the book and I can tell you this book has spoken to me in the very depths of my soul. It has comforted me and challenged me more than I could have imagined. </div>
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Glenna shares her own personal story of struggles with infertility and sickness, and seeking to understand where God is in the midst of these trials.</div>
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God isn't a genie in a bottle. He isn't just sitting up there waiting on our prayers so he can grant our every wish. God has one desire, and that is for us to love Him above all else. To love Him even in the difficult times. For Him to be enough, even when the prayers aren't answered the way we would have hoped. And let's be honest, there are many times that God's plan is different from ours.</div>
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Ladies I have struggled with this. When I need something from God, I expect Him to give it to me. And when He doesn't, well, I don't understand. God's desire is for my heart's desire to be Him, and Him alone. Not what He can do for me. But what He has already done. He wants to be enough. When my mom passed away last summer I was so broken-hearted. I couldn't understand why God did not heal her. And while I still don't understand, through Glenna's book, I'm reminded that God is God no matter the situation or circumstance. Even during the midst of the most difficult time in my life, GOD WAS WITH ME. Even when I didn't feel Him, He was there.</div>
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If you read one book this year, I urge you to pick up a copy of "The Promise Is His Presence." I believe God will speak to you like He spoke to me through this book and encourage you to keep your eyes firmly on the Savior. He truly is with us always, and His presence is always enough.</div>
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"The Promise Is His Presence is available through <a href="https://www.cvbbs.com/products/the-promise-is-his-presence" target="_blank">CVBBS (on sale through tomorrow!)</a></div>
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and of course through Amazon.</div>
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**I received a free advance PDF copy of this book for my review. I can assure you my opinion is honest and unbiased and completely my own. I have purchased several copies of Glenna's book to give as gifts to friends and family members. Once you read it, I think you'll want to order several more copies to give as gifts. WE ALL NEED HIS PRESENCE.</div>
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<br />Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-35656214816564421632019-07-16T16:51:00.001-05:002019-07-16T16:55:13.544-05:0007.16.18<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">07.16.18</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">One year ago this morning, at 7:28 a.m., my mother opened her eyes and took her first breath in heaven. Faith became sight. Sickness became healing. Fear became joy. Worry became eternal peace. Jesus Christ took her weary hand in His nail scarred hand. She was given a robe and a crown. A saint returned home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And heaven rejoiced.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love you so much, mom. I miss you with an ache that is almost physical. The weight of grief is the hardest burden I've ever carried. It never gets any easier. I will miss you until my last breath. You were wonderful and I'm so thankful you were my mother. I hope I've made you proud.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Though I fail Him many times, I'm following Jesus just like you taught me. So when you see me crossing the Jordan River one day, please come running to me. I'll be running to you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD10tzDRoaV_vsY226wjih_s1z_xC2eFxzR8PjblIDOup-jDsq61DBfSNs8Xb2EKJulccefGSnrQ3Ep7gAgJxIx4FJNEXWfSbpKYb4CecA_jCsYtNFOGTBY6NQTgHYVYd3IkrkYTlGCZUZ/s1600/My+Mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="509" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD10tzDRoaV_vsY226wjih_s1z_xC2eFxzR8PjblIDOup-jDsq61DBfSNs8Xb2EKJulccefGSnrQ3Ep7gAgJxIx4FJNEXWfSbpKYb4CecA_jCsYtNFOGTBY6NQTgHYVYd3IkrkYTlGCZUZ/s320/My+Mom.jpg" width="232" /></a></span></div>
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Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-74457252108233126642019-04-25T13:18:00.000-05:002019-04-25T13:18:16.981-05:00Faith<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">My cousin asked me to send her a paragraph on "faith." </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Below is my response: </span></div>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="5yl5"><span style="font-family: "Garamond", serif;">According to Romans 12:3, I believe each
Christian is given “the measure of faith” by God when we become a follower of
Jesus. Everyone living for Christ has faith because God gave it to
us. Now what we do what that faith is up to us. We can spend our lives
barely hanging on, or we can build our faith. Romans 10:17 says “faith
comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” So the more time we
spend in the Word, the stronger our faith becomes! Wow!!!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="5yl5"><span style="font-family: "Garamond", serif;"> I
have had so many times in my life where my faith was all I had. When my
mom was diagnosed with cancer, I had faith that God was going to heal
her. I knew it in my heart. God did heal her, but it was at the
moment He took her to heaven, I never saw her healing with my physical eyes.
So was my faith in vain? NO!! God never promised us that this life
would be easy. In fact, Jesus Himself said in John 16:33 “in this world YOU
WILL HAVE TROUBLE!! But be of good cheer, I HAVE OVERCOME THE
WORLD.” Our faith that God is with us no matter what our enemy the
devil brings against us is what enables us to persevere. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="5yl5"><span style="font-family: "Garamond", serif;">Faith is what
keeps us from giving up in the midst of trials, sorrow, sickness. Faith
is saying “God, Your will be done.” If I did not know that God loved me,
and that no matter what I have to endure on this earth, I will spend eternity
with Him, I could not go on. Life is hard and unfair and the day to day
absolutely wears me down. But thank God He is making all things new and
one day none of the things I have stressed about will matter. The cares
will be erased from my memory and I will only see Him. Faith brings
peace. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="5yl5"><span style="font-family: "Garamond", serif;">Resting in Jesus and in His love for me.</span></span></span></div>
Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-55350437911985245312019-01-18T05:00:00.000-06:002019-01-18T05:00:14.023-06:00Check Out My Daughter's Blog!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">You remember my beautiful daughter, Alex! She played volleyball in high school and got married and graduated from college in the blink of an eye and now she lives 0 minutes from me! She has her teaching certificate and is applying for teaching jobs in our hometown. To say I am proud of her would be a</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">HUGE UNDERSTATEMENT!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMhu7eSSerXOXHdsufXcoU9cnd0M9jE_B9eugy14ZlOLW385nsGCQ3yUhWWvExxEG88sxJCMPEIYKStrRbb0XG58TIrC1goAtg38Pf3AeayPAAk3IZ_g3miPyAPjCX0XUkSwDRerkx5bc/s1600/AlexBP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="904" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMhu7eSSerXOXHdsufXcoU9cnd0M9jE_B9eugy14ZlOLW385nsGCQ3yUhWWvExxEG88sxJCMPEIYKStrRbb0XG58TIrC1goAtg38Pf3AeayPAAk3IZ_g3miPyAPjCX0XUkSwDRerkx5bc/s320/AlexBP.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Alex has her own blog and it's called "Blissfully Alex!" She is a great cook and decorator and posts pictures of her husband and her three dogs and recipes and home decor and the day-to-day life of a young married couple. So please take a few minutes and check out her blog! You'll be so glad you did!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"><a href="https://blissfullyalex.com/index.php/blog/" target="_blank">BLISSFULLY ALEX!!</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"> </span></span></div>
Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-81659962710202322422019-01-15T11:20:00.006-06:002019-01-15T11:20:58.758-06:00SCATTER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One of my beautiful friends saw my post on my "Word" for 2019 -- SCATTER. And look what she had made for me??</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7G-VblMMCKsJpnNy4tqrSrp121B1vO-7hd5DC1cSxpDKuKBdpmaS2jJpq_gdRM9_qnIHr1EBXK4GqvVmQtWPz29Q7Y3ytvQnssO1ZpJQIInEVu0nJ2Qxyhfdv73dBh37KlpCZvbnSL7j/s1600/56910182962__3A14ADCA-9ACA-43C8-B730-08EBF8D8D47D+%2528002%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7G-VblMMCKsJpnNy4tqrSrp121B1vO-7hd5DC1cSxpDKuKBdpmaS2jJpq_gdRM9_qnIHr1EBXK4GqvVmQtWPz29Q7Y3ytvQnssO1ZpJQIInEVu0nJ2Qxyhfdv73dBh37KlpCZvbnSL7j/s320/56910182962__3A14ADCA-9ACA-43C8-B730-08EBF8D8D47D+%2528002%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I have the best friends!! They are SUCH a blessing to me!!</div>
Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-13344335251968187122018-12-27T12:37:00.000-06:002018-12-27T12:55:21.579-06:00My "Word" for 2019 is . . . . . It has become popular for people to pick a word that represents a goal or a desire for the coming year. But before I tell you my word for 2019, let me go back and remind you of my "words" from prior years.<br />
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My "Word" for 2015 was MORE. I wanted MORE of Jesus. You can read that post <a href="http://griffithland.blogspot.com/2015/01/more.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Little did I know when I wrote that post that in 2015 my children would get married 49 days apart and our daughter would move 1,800 miles away to the state of California. I truly needed MORE of Jesus as our daughter moving away was very hard on me. Don't get me wrong, I was so happy for her. But I MISSED HER!! Our family is very close and we're used to spending a lot of time together. That can't happen when one of the family lives so far away. So I went to visit her two months after she got married and we talked on the phone every single day and I trusted Jesus that He could take care of her and He did. They are now back home in Missouri safe and sound and live about 10 minutes away from me. Thank you Jesus for giving me MORE.<br />
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My "Word" for 2016 was PRAYER. Specifically the power of prayer. You can read that post <a href="http://griffithland.blogspot.com/2016/01/power-of-prayer.html" target="_blank">HERE.</a><br />
Again, I could not have known how desperately I would need the power of prayer when I wrote that post. My beautiful mother was diagnosed with colon cancer on July 29, 2016 and I needed more prayers than I had ever needed before. There aren't words to describe how much I appreciated all the prayers that were lifted for my mother, and for me. And while our prayers were not answered the way we wanted, I KNOW that I KNOW that I KNOW that my mother is healed and whole today, walking the streets of heaven and praising Jesus. Her faith has truly become sight. I can only imagine what she has seen and I look forward to the day when she meets me at those heavenly gates beside my Savior. What a day that will be. Thank you Jesus for the power of PRAYER.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPbmp7Y444l_GXkETO8I7TIiwpbIgxkbGKDgs61oaGYOU4rKOY_gsnHWHJ0wRAVuWPIvGpGbfgFNn-_T4_E9EsG-A07dU-4-8_kEyjNunjsOTM3fz9ABQfGOiM1jlDxh1802IFCDc_txq6/s1600/2019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="202" data-original-width="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPbmp7Y444l_GXkETO8I7TIiwpbIgxkbGKDgs61oaGYOU4rKOY_gsnHWHJ0wRAVuWPIvGpGbfgFNn-_T4_E9EsG-A07dU-4-8_kEyjNunjsOTM3fz9ABQfGOiM1jlDxh1802IFCDc_txq6/s1600/2019.jpg" /></a></div>
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Based on the last two "Words" I chose you might be thinking "be careful what word you use!" And I would say that's very true. But how could I have known how important those two words would be in my life? In January of both 2017 and 2018 I didn't pick a word. I was consumed and overwhelmed with my mom's illness and taking care of her. But I feel like for 2019 it's time for me to choose another word.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My "Word" for 2019 is SCATTER. </span></div>
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My husband and I were watching television the other night and they were interviewing a famous man and he said something that has really stuck with me:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"You will be remembered, not for what you gather,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">but for what you SCATTER."</span></div>
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The evening of my mom's visitation this past July over 400 people stood in line to pay their respects and to speak to me and my sisters and my dad. They all shared a common theme of what a wonderful person she was, and what a difference she had made in their lives. They talked about what a strong faith she had and how she had shared Jesus with them in life changing ways. My mom SCATTERED her faith throughout her entire life and people remembered it and it changed them. My mom made a difference because she SCATTERED the love of Jesus everywhere she went.</div>
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So for 2019 and beyond I want to be intentional about doing that same thing . . . . scattering the love of Jesus. Asking people if they know Him, and sharing my faith with them boldly. The loss of my mother has reminded me that this life is only temporary. Only what we do for Jesus matters. And above all else I want my life to have mattered for the kingdom of God. I want to scatter blessings and generosity and encouragement and faith and hope and love. People are desperate for something real, and Jesus is as real as it gets.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">2019 IS MY YEAR TO SCATTER JESUS!!!</span></div>
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Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-63650734389315513862018-11-27T11:57:00.001-06:002018-11-27T11:58:04.585-06:00Giving Tuesday - Three Angels Haiti<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">If you're looking for a place to donate for "Giving Tuesday" may I suggest Three Angels Haiti?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="Three Angels" height="180" src="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/541b48c2e4b0f8281ce94c5d/t/541b597ee4b09246971b82e4/1542983659349/?format=1500w" width="320" /> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Three Angels is a Christian orphanage and school and they're trying to raise money to give Christmas dinners to 300 families. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have never gone hungry for even one meal in my life. I can't imagine the struggles these families face.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PLEASE join me in making a donation to Three Angels Haiti.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For $25 you can provide an entire Christmas meal for a family (a chicken, beans and rice, garlic, bouillon, oil, tomato sauce and spices). </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So click <a href="https://www.threeangelshaiti.org/christmas-dinner-2017/" target="_blank">HERE </a>to go to their website and donate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What are you waiting for??</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Not everyone can adopt, but everyone can support a student or an orphan or a family in Haiti.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And while you're at it, check out their website and consider sponsoring an orphan for just $49 a month or sponsoring a student for just $25 a month. I have sponsored an orphan for several years, and the little girl I sponsored was just adopted by her forever family. How exciting!!!! I have continued my monthly donation of $49 and am now sponsoring a different child.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The need is great. But a small amount per month from you and me can literally change the life of a child in Haiti.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">James 1:27 - </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="st"><i>"</i>Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widow<i>s</i> in their distress."</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="st">So click on the link above, get out your credit card and GIVE!</span></span></div>
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Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-39112242649367027072018-11-19T12:29:00.002-06:002018-11-19T12:29:38.193-06:00My Grandson<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My grandson arrived EARLY in the morning on Thursday, November 8th. He and his mama and daddy are doing WONDERFULLY and we, his grandparents, are smitten for sure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes, I can tell already, I'm going to be "that" grandma. He is absolutely perfect and we are so blessed and so thankful for him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKQvq-_Xa5rsZavSiB6t75q4aSbriVMtJE-vYLUjL_E9iWkTG01kU_yFXo1rOyZm41PmcTOCdAVebUKOTIzWs9dXCC3az5ZFvwl2XPEZkpvg8n3EOaPUjokTL-O17sEtbgZnl0Pbe-a5ni/s1600/Ira+Paul+Newborn+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="960" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKQvq-_Xa5rsZavSiB6t75q4aSbriVMtJE-vYLUjL_E9iWkTG01kU_yFXo1rOyZm41PmcTOCdAVebUKOTIzWs9dXCC3az5ZFvwl2XPEZkpvg8n3EOaPUjokTL-O17sEtbgZnl0Pbe-a5ni/s320/Ira+Paul+Newborn+Photo.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is a sneak peak of a newborn photo our son and daughter in law had taken last week. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He is absolutely the cutest thing I've ever seen. When I held him for the first time my heart just overflowed with love and happiness imagining all the wonderful memories we will make with him as he grows.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was very blessed to have two absolutely wonderful Godly grandmothers. They were both different, and I did different things when I was with them, but my memories of them absolutely bring a smile to my face and warm my heart. I intend to do all I can to make certain my grandchildren have those same wonderful grandma memories that I have. I'm already thinking of things we can do together!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you all for praying. Our daughter in law had 30 hours of labor and then a c-section, but both are doing great.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Everything I ever heard about how wonderful it is to be a grandma . . . . . every word is true.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Grandchildren are a blessing.</span></div>
Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-65874665203175204982018-11-06T12:06:00.001-06:002018-11-06T12:06:23.475-06:00November<div style="text-align: center;">
My mother passed away 16
weeks and one day ago and my heart literally aches for her. I miss her
with a weight of grief that only those who have experienced true loss
know and understand. I KNOW that my mother is in heaven,
rejoicing with the angels around the throne, praising the Savior. My
mother was a faithful follower of Jesus all the days of her life and I
know her reward is great. That brings me great comfort. My feet are bound to the same straight and narrow path my mom's were so that one day I can
be reunited with her and meet my Jesus face to face. Oh what a day.
Until then, I “press on.” When people ask how I’m doing I smile and say
“I’m doing OK.” But some days I’m not OK. Some days I just want to
go out to her grave and bawl my eyes out. I want her back. I would never have let her go if God had asked my permission, but
He didn’t, and I trust Him. Life goes on and I try hard to focus on the
going forward because I believe that is part of that pressing on that
the Lord requires of all of us. We know that all of us are born to die,
and death is a part of life. </div>
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But oh it is a painful part. </div>
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There are
good parts of life and I’m about to experience the best of life, or so
those who have done this before me say . . . I’m going to be a grandma
in just a few hours!! Our wonderful daughter in law is just past 40
weeks pregnant and will be induced tonight, so by this time tomorrow
morning our first grandchild (a precious baby boy named after my husband) will be
here and your prayers for an uneventful, perfectly normal delivery and a healthy baby boy will be greatly appreciated. The thought of that sweet little baby fills my heart with true joy. I like to believe that my
little grandson is at this very moment sitting on my mother’s lap in heaven,
and she is telling him all about the wonderful family he is about to
join. Holding him will be bittersweet for me as I desperately wanted her to be here as I become a grandma. My mom wanted so
desperately to get to see him, and when I hold him for the first time my
heart will be full, believing that he has been with my mom since I have.
And if that’s not how heaven works then I’m OK with it. But it makes me
smile thinking of my mom holding her great-grandson in heaven before I
hold him on this earth. Maybe that’s why he’s taking his own sweet time
arriving . . . great-grandma’s lap is a wonderful place to be. </div>
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My mom's headstone has been delivered to the monument company, and should be engraved this week or next, and set by the end of this month. We are anxious to get that done. It looks so bare and empty out there. I think maybe once the stone is set it will feel more real? I don't know. Because there are days the thought of my mom being gone doesn't feel real at all. Like it must all be a dream.</div>
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Speaking of dreams, I dreamed about my mom last week for the first time. It was a wonderful dream . . . for just a few seconds she was here with me and it was wonderful.</div>
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I've fallen off the exercise and healthy eating wagon HARD. I went on vacation last month . . . . a trip to Florida that got cut short by the hurricane and it took me awhile to get refocused. But I'm back to exercising and trying to make better food choices. One day at a time.</div>
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Thanks so much for sticking with me here at Down On The Farm. And thank you for praying for my daughter-in-law, Megan, and my grandson, Ira Paul. Blessings to you all!! </div>
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Stay tuned for lots of pictures of a very cute baby boy!!!</div>
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AND IF YOU HAVEN'T VOTED ALREADY, GO VOTE!!!!!!!</div>
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<br />Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-76682142263499592532018-10-01T10:32:00.002-05:002018-10-01T10:32:30.835-05:00Ten Days In<div style="text-align: center;">
Wow!!! I can't believe today is the tenth day of my healthy lifestyle journey !!</div>
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I'm happy to report I'm down 3.4 pounds. I can't say I can tell that I've lost weight, but I can really tell I am getting stronger with my workouts. </div>
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I still can't do the entire Level One of the 30 Day Shred without taking a quick breather once in awhile, but I can do MORE than I could before. I can do more pushups than I could and pushups have always been hard for me. I have worked out every day for the past 10 days, except yesterday. I have read that the body needs one day of rest per week, so I didn't do the workout on Sunday. But I was up early this morning and exercised before work. I still don't like it when that alarm goes off, and probably never will, but morning works are the hardest to skip because there just isn't an excuse to NOT work out. And oh it feels SOOOO GOOD when I'm finished!!! </div>
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I did have a couple Diet Cokes over the weekend, and they sure tasted good. But I have had FAR FEWER Diet Cokes the last 10 days than I would normally would have so I'm considering that a win.</div>
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I'm trying to eat healthy foods, smaller portions, and trying to eat fewer carbs. </div>
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My mom has been gone 11 weeks this morning. I still can't believe it. I know she is in heaven, healed and whole and that makes me smile. And yet I go out to the cemetery and look down at the grave and my heart breaks all over again. I still cry every day. I miss her terribly. I just want the old mom back. The mom before she got sick. I'm going on with life, but man, oh man, this hurts.</div>
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Our daughter-in-law is feeling great and our grandson is due one month from today!We're beyond excited. Please keep the prayers coming for a healthy baby and an easy, uneventful delivery. Those last 4 or 5 weeks of pregnancy are just no fun, so please keep the prayers coming.</div>
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Please pray for our country. Pray for our leaders. Pray for your church and your pastor. I'm praying today for you. Asking God to show you specifically the path He has for the rest of your life. His way is always best.</div>
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Blessings from Missouri!! </div>
Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-70236329131020796872018-09-26T09:49:00.001-05:002018-09-26T09:57:22.654-05:00Day Five<div style="text-align: center;">
Today is my fifth day of working out every day. I started doing the Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred DVD on Day Three and I love it!! You can check out the details of the 30 Day Shred <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Jillian-Michaels-30-Day-Shred/dp/B00127RAJY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1537971703&sr=8-2&keywords=30+Day+Shred" target="_blank">HERE</a>!</div>
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I snapped this picture from my front porch this morning just after I finished working out!! What a beautiful morning here in Missouri!!!</div>
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I'm doing Level One and I use 5 pound weights. The workout is 28 minutes from warm up to cool down. The movements aren't complicated. Just physically challenging since I'm out of shape. I still can't keep up the entire time and I do have to modify the pushups (think girl pushups on my knees!). I still have to stop sometimes and catch my breath, but I only stop for a few seconds then pick right back up. I know I won't see any results standing there watching her exercise, so I keep going!!!</div>
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My muscles are sore, but a good kind of sore. I can tell I'm getting a little bit stronger each day. I've done a little research and it seems like most people spend 10 days on Level One then move to Level Two. Right now Level One is plenty for me. I'll let you know when I move up to Level Two.</div>
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I'm doing pretty well on my goal of eating less and eating healthier food. This morning I had a protein shake for breakfast, and I have baked chicken with broccoli for lunch. For my evening meal I try hard to eat no carbs. My body just can't handle carbs very well so I don't eat them often. That's tough for me cause I love potatoes!!! But potatoes attach themselves to my hips so I rarely indulge.</div>
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I am not swearing off Diet Coke forever, but I want it to be a treat, not just something I drink when I'm thirsty. Focusing on drinking lots more water. I haven't had a Diet Coke since last week!!</div>
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I'm five days into this journey and I'm excited. Do I love setting my alarm 45 minutes early so I can exercise before work? Honestly, no. I am NOT a morning person. But for my life, exercising in the mornings just works better. If I wait until after work it's easier to make an excuse to NOT work out . . . and believe me I speak from experience. In the mornings I have NO excuse but my own laziness. I don't inconvenience anybody but ME in the mornings. So I'm committing to setting my alarm and getting up early and working out in the mornings.</div>
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As I said in the beginning, I promise to be honest. If I skip a workout I will let you know. If I totally blow my healthy eating for a day I will share it. And I will share my progress on losing weight. I weighed myself this morning and I'm down 2.2 pounds since Day One. </div>
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FIVE DAYS IN AND A LIFETIME OF BETTER HEALTH TO GO!!!!!</div>
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<i>**Disclaimer - This is NOT a paid advertisement for Jillian Michaels or 30 Day Shred. She has never heard of me. I purchased this DVD on Amazon and paid for it myself. Just giving you my honest opinion.</i></div>
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<br />Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-38893131456576791272018-09-24T12:43:00.000-05:002018-09-24T12:43:25.609-05:00Day Three<div style="text-align: center;">
Today is Day Three of my healthy lifestyle journey. Here's an update.</div>
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On Saturday morning I did a 30 minute workout at home. I didn't think I'd really done much until I tried to go down the steps from our porch late morning. My legs were shaky!! I'm really trying to make good food choices but it isn't easy for me. I love food. For breakfast I had overnight oats made with unsweetened almond milk. I also attended a baby shower for my beautiful daughter-in-law Saturday afternoon. I had already eaten lunch so I skipped the sandwiches and dessert. Instead I opted for a small salad and some grapes. I drank water. For supper I fixed pork steak and a salad. I ate a small portion of the pork steak and a big lettuce salad. </div>
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On Sunday I again had the overnight oats for breakfast. They really are tasty. For lunch I ate a small piece of the leftover pork steak and a salad. For supper I fixed 2 small beef steaks and I ate one small steak and a salad with ranch dressing. I had a banana for my snack, and some cashews. I walked 1 mile Sunday afternoon and did a 25 minute workout Sunday evening. I'm still making up my workout as I go along. I'm doing lots of arm lifts to the front and side and over my head with the 5 pound weights. And I hold the weights while I do squats. Ouch. My legs are SORE!! I have an exercise DVD I bought months ago. I've never even opened it. Tonight I'm going to open it and try to work my way through it. </div>
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I did some meal planning over the weekend so I have 5 portions of chicken tenders and brown rice, enough for every day for lunch this week. I brushed the tenders with a little bit of olive oil and sprinkled everything bagel seasoning on them. The brown rice is just plain, made with water. </div>
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Speaking of water, I read that a great weight loss tool is drinking half your body weight in ounces of water each day. This is tough for me. I'm not a huge water drinker. I love Diet Coke and tea with artificial sweetener. But I'm trying to make better choices so my GOAL is to try to drink NO DIET COKE this week, and to drink very little tea with sweetener. </div>
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I promise to be honest with you all. If I skip a workout I'll tell you. If I blow it and make a horrible food choice (like pepperoni pizza or a bowl of ice cream) I'll tell you. I'm very serious about these next 97 days, but I'm also human. I won't be perfect. I'm not vegan or vegetarian and my idea of "clean eating" will probably look different than yours. But I'm really hoping that the accountability of making this very public on my blog and on Instagram will KEEP ME FOCUSED ON MAKING BETTER CHOICES!!!</div>
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Had a great sermon yesterday at church!! We studied Rahab and how courageous she was. Courageous faith. That's what I want to have. Courage to stand for Jesus no matter what. </div>
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Snapped this picture Saturday evening. Psalm 19:1 "<b>The heavens declare</b> the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands!!" <br />
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Have a blessed day!!!!</div>
Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-85024774225913040642018-09-22T08:36:00.000-05:002018-09-22T08:43:06.308-05:00Day OneJust being honest, I have not taken very good care of my body these past few years. I have not exercised. I have eaten too much of the wrong foods and not nearly enough fruits and vegetables. I have not made my health a priority. Ten years ago I lost 30 pounds. I have gained it all back. I’ve tried everything in the book. Weight Watchers. Atkins. Starvation. Beach Body. Low fat. No fat. High fat no carb. I have literally tried it all. And it all works ... for a short time. Then the diet stops and the weight comes back on. A vicious cycle. So today I find myself overweight and out of shape AGAIN. It’s so frustrating. Maybe you’ve been there. Maybe you’re there now.<br />
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I have found a young lady who has inspired me to quit dieting and get healthy the old fashioned way. Moving more and eating healthier. Her name is Marga Banaga and she lives in the Philippines. You can find her on YouTube and other social media. She has a 20 minute video on her initial 100 day journey to eat clean and work out daily. She lost 30 pounds. She looks so healthy !! So strong!! So amazing !!! So I’ve decided if she can do it, so can I. Now her clean eating looks different from mine. She eats shrimp and salmon. No other meat. Hello, I live on a cattle farm in Missouri so my clean eating definitely includes meat. But she eats lots of fruits and vegetables and healthy carbs. She drinks a ton of water. And she works out every single day. Nothing fancy. Just moving her body in good old fashioned exercise.<br />
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So today is my Day One. I’ve done a 30 minute workout on my own this morning. In my living room. I tried to remember some basics from every exercise class I’ve taken. I have a mat and a set of 5 pound weights and my floor. That’s it. No gym membership. My muscles are sore already. But I’m committed. Today starts my journey toward eating clean and working out. A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE. Nothing extreme. Nothing difficult. Just CONSISTENCY!!! I can do this. And by making this public I’m holding myself accountable.<br />
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I promise to be brutally honest. I’ll share my successes and my failures. What worked. What didn’t. What I’m eating. What my workout consists of. Some meal preparing. And I’ll share my progress. This morning was hard. I’m out of shape. But I did it. And you can too.<br />
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ONE DAY AT A TIME.Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-17115903475989145252018-09-17T15:41:00.003-05:002018-09-17T15:41:31.632-05:00Following Christ . . . <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-17268279990378469242018-08-17T14:39:00.000-05:002018-08-17T14:40:25.672-05:00Three Angels Haiti Needs Your Help<div style="text-align: center;">
I have mentioned before that I sponsor at child at Three Angels Children's Relief in Haiti. If you follow Layla Palmer over at <a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/" target="_blank">The Lettered Cottage</a> you know that their precious son, Steevenson, was adopted through Three Angels. I have sponsored a child at Three Angels for many years now and it is a wonderful organization. They are a Christian orphanage and also a Christian school, totally legit, so all the money really goes to help these kids and all donations are tax deductible.</div>
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I recently received an e-mail from them asking for help. It's back to school time in Haiti, and the kids need some new books. I never thought about it until I read the e-mail, but schools in Haiti aren't air conditioned, so the oppressive heat and humidity takes a toll on books. You can read all about the need on their website. </div>
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Please prayerfully consider either sponsoring an orphan, sponsoring a student, or making a one time donation to Three Angels. I have no affiliation with Three Angels, other than being a sponsor. If you can skip a few trips to Starbucks or one meal out per month, you can sponsor a student. If sponsorship won't work for you, then please consider making a one-time gift. All of the details can be found on their website . . . <a href="http://www.threeangelshaiti.org/" target="_blank">THREE ANGELS HAITI. </a></div>
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They are 100% funded by donations and these kids need our help. And James 1:27 is pretty black and white about our responsibility as Christians . . . <sup class="versenum"> </sup>"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." I can't go to Haiti, but I can send money to help.</div>
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So click on the website and make a difference in the lives of some really awesome kids. I did. </div>
Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-32768195021313968622018-07-31T11:20:00.001-05:002018-07-31T11:20:47.314-05:00Where Do I Go From Here ? ? ? <div style="text-align: center;">
It's been two weeks since my mom gained heaven. Two weeks since her faith became sight. To say I miss her is an understatement. I have shed many, many tears. I tell her I love her and miss her every single day (no, she doesn't answer me, but it makes me feel like she's still here). I've gone to the cemetery a few times and it makes me sad. She's not there. She is in heaven healed and whole and more alive than she ever was here on this earth. I believe that with all my heart. I feel selfish missing her because she was so sick and I'm so very thankful her suffering is over. She fought hard to try to stay here with us. But there is a hole in my heart that will always be there. I will always miss her because she was such a huge part of my life. I know there are people who aren't close to their moms and that makes me very sad for those people. My mom and I were very close. I cherish the memories I have of her. She was wonderful and I am so very proud to be her daughter. </div>
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So where do I go from here? Frankly I had considered not blogging anymore. Mainly because for the last two years the only thing I have blogged about is my mom. I don't know that there are very many people who even read this blog anymore, and that's OK. I blog for myself anyway and I still have things to share and stories to tell so I've decided I'm going to keep Down On The Farm going if for no other reason than I enjoy it.</div>
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I'm in the process of simplifying my life and I'm starting with my house. We've lived here for over 20 years and we've accumulated a lot of stuff. I'm not a spender. I don't get up on Saturday mornings and feel like I have to go shopping and buy myself something. But in the last 20 years our house has gotten really "full." So I'm purging and donating and organizing. I've cleaned out a small closet that had become the equivalent of a junk drawer and I'll be blogging about that soon and posting before and after pictures. It's amazing what purging, and a few bins from Marshalls can do for a small closet!! I cleaned out just one drawer in my bathroom but OH THE JOY of that one empty drawer!!! It's the little things people!!!</div>
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Our daughter came by this weekend and took the final load of items from her old room. So I'm going to do some switch-a-roos with closets and bedroom furniture and I'll be blogging about that as well. Our interior walls need painted and everything just needs to be REFRESHED! Nothing major. Not knocking out any walls. But we've really done very little to our house in the last 20 years and it's time for an update. I'm looking forward to doing that and sharing the process with you.</div>
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My sweet grandson will be here in late fall and my goal is to be able to spend as much time with him, and our kids, as possible. And NOT to be stressing about all the closets I need to clean out or all the drawers I need to empty. I'm on a mission to get everything cleaned and organized by the end of the year. And hopefully it won't take me that long!!! My house isn't that big and I'm not a hoarder so there really isn't THAT much to do. But I do have several drawers and closets that need to be emptied out and organized. My theme is -- if I don't need it, use it or love it IT'S GONE!!!! </div>
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I really do want to say thank you for sticking with me through the two most difficult years of my life. Your prayers for me and my family and my beautiful mother have been appreciated so much. It made a difference. No, the outcome was not what I prayed for my mom, but I trust that God knows what He's doing. Knowing that my mother is in heaven waiting for me makes me smile through my tears.</div>
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So if you've come this far with me and you're ready to go a little farther please keep visiting Down On The Farm. There will be LOTS OF PICTURES of my new grandson (YES, I'M GOING TO BE ONE OF THOSE GRANDMAS!!!). Pictures of "before" and "after" of drawers and closets and walls. Stories about my mom and my husband and my kids. Stories about my life surrounded by cows and turkeys and dust and mud and flies and manure. Posts about my faith in Jesus and a few sermons cause I can't keep silent about His love for me! Maybe some recipes and some funny stories and the day to day life of a 54 year old wife and mom and soon to be grandma trying to make the REST of my life the BEST of my life. I want to be a better servant of Jesus, a better daughter, sister, aunt, friend, mom and wife. I want to be the very best ME that God created me to be. </div>
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Blessings from Down On The Farm!!!! </div>
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<br />Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-86056429347792561852018-07-23T15:53:00.000-05:002018-07-23T15:55:08.008-05:00My Mom . . . . . <div style="text-align: center;">
My mom passed away a week ago today . . . July 16, 2018. I was holding her hand.</div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>Donna Henley, 80, of Eldon,
Missouri passed away Monday, July 16, 2018 at her residence in Eldon,
Missouri. She was born January 3, 1938 in Capps, Missouri the daughter
of the late James Howard and Flossie (Barton) Hall. On March 30, 1963
in St. Elizabeth, Missouri she was united in marriage to Robert Henley
who survives of the home. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>Other survivors include,</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>Daughters, Robbin Griffith & husband Billy Paul; Rhonda Bottoms & husband Danny; Renda Fisher & husband Greg. Grandchildren, Charity
Lawmaster & husband Sheldon; Cole Griffith & wife Megan; Case
Bottoms; Alex Wyrick & husband Cole; Caragan Fisher & Cade
Fisher. Great Grandchildren, one month
old Great Granddaughter, Andersyn Rae Lawmaster & Great Grandson,
Ira Paul Griffith due November 2018.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>Siblings, Wanda Chandler;
Ronnie Hall; Alicia Atwell; Glenna Gardner; Jimmy Hall & wife Donna;
Diane Blankenship & husband Fred; Kathy Willey & husband Dennis</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>Sisters in law, Rayma Jean Elrod & husband Gene; Ruby Dean Binkley</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>And many, many nieces & nephews.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>Donna was a 1956 graduate of
St. Elizabeth High School. She and her sister, Glenna Gardner were the
first female entertainers to perform on Lee Mace’s Ozark Opry. She
owned the Longhorn Café from 1971-1975, and the Burger Castle both
located in Eldon, MO. Donna was a very talented singer and musician,
playing the mandolin, bass fiddle and guitar. Her other hobbies
included enjoying time with her children and grandchildren and spreading
the gospel of Jesus Christ as a licensed minister. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>Visitation will be Wednesday,
July 18, 2018 from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Phillips Funeral Home of Eldon,
MO. Funeral Service will be Thursday, July 19, 2018 at 10:00 AM also at
Phillips Funeral Home with Pastor Chris Reynolds & Pastor Ron Boyer
officiating. Interment will follow at the Eldon City Cemetery.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>Memorials in her name are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.</b></span></div>
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Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-1464246816812038812018-07-05T16:19:00.003-05:002018-07-05T16:19:21.495-05:00Our Grandbaby Is A . . . . . . . . <div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">BOY!!!!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> Our daughter planned the sweetest </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">gender reveal for our son and</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">It was a great evening filled with food and family and the big moment finding out it's a BOY! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">We are in love and can't WAIT to </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Due date November 1, 2018.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Your prayers for a healthy baby and pregnancy are much appreciated! </span></div>
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Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-59262402404678140832018-06-26T12:14:00.002-05:002018-06-26T12:14:23.206-05:00Updating You All<div style="text-align: center;">
My mom needs your prayers. She was running a pretty high fever yesterday. Not exactly sure what is causing it but they put her on a broad spectrum antibiotic and she hasn't had any fever today. Praise the Lord.</div>
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She continues to struggle with eating and drinking. She is very frail and weak.</div>
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I'm so thankful that my mom knows Jesus, and that no matter what His plan is, I will see her again. But oh my goodness, this is hard.</div>
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Harder than anything I have ever experienced in my life.</div>
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Our family needs your prayers. We continue to ask for healing, and we know she will be healed . . . if not on earth, then in heaven.</div>
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We are celebrating the birth of my great-niece last week. She is beautiful and we are all in love.</div>
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And this weekend we find out if our new grandbaby (due in November) is a boy or girl. So watch for that announcement next week. We honestly don't care which it is. Your prayers for a healthy baby and an uneventful delivery are greatly appreciated.</div>
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So much to be thankful for. We are blessed, and we sometimes have to remind ourselves of that, even in the midst of the struggle.</div>
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As I have said more times than I can count . . .</div>
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God is good, even when I don't understand.</div>
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Your prayers are much appreciated. </div>
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<br />Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-68060696999694087212018-05-29T12:29:00.002-05:002018-05-29T12:29:28.182-05:00Could Sure Use Some Prayers<div style="text-align: center;">
My mom has had a tough couple of weeks, and a really rough weekend. She was nauseous most of the time and her appetite had decreased even further.</div>
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We changed up her anti-nausea medicine Sunday and that seemed to help. She hasn't been sick at her stomach since Sunday and for that we are so thankful!!</div>
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She desperately needs your prayers.</div>
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Her need is big, but our God is bigger.</div>
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He is the Healer and my mom needs His touch.</div>
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Please pray for my mom. Her name is Donna.</div>
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Thank you and God bless you.</div>
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<br />Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-6927550024295591032018-05-18T15:44:00.003-05:002018-05-18T15:44:46.906-05:00Dangerous Women<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-67852992677086280222018-05-08T09:40:00.001-05:002018-05-08T09:40:13.295-05:00Laundry Quandry - Time<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So, last night I decided to time myself putting away a load of laundry. I did not rush. I did not hurry. I did just like I always do. I walked to the dryer, opened the door and turned around to check the clock in the kitchen. . . 7:01 p.m. I folded the bath towels, hand towels, kitchen towels and wash cloths and placed them on top of the dryer. Then I put them away (towels, hand towels and wash cloths in the 2 bathrooms, kitchen towels in the kitchen). And just saying, my house is average size, all on one level, so I didn't have to walk too far, and I didn't have to go up and down stairs. I then took the rest of the items out of the dryer and walked to our bedroom (again, average size house, just walked down the hall). I matched up the socks and put them in the drawers, underclothing, night gowns, all put in the dresser drawers. I walked back to my kitchen and looked at the clock 7:06 p.m.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It took me five minutes to put away a load of whites. So, again, not criticizing anyone else. Just encouraging you to only touch your laundry one time! Makes things a whole lot easier!!</span></div>
Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8747380616247977047.post-34384420978056586052018-05-07T11:29:00.005-05:002018-05-07T11:29:53.505-05:00Laundry QuandryHey friends!! Spring has sprung here in Central Missouri! The temperatures have finally warmed up and we've had lots of sunshine. We're still behind on rainfall, and hoping the rain in the forecast for tomorrow night actually falls in neck of the woods. The pastures are way behind on growth, so in order for our cows to have plenty of hay to eat next winter, we need rain and sunshine and GRASS GROWING!! <br />
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I see a lot of blog posts and Instagram squares about women (sorry guys but it is ladies doing most of the laundry) and all their issues with laundry. They talk about having 10 loads of laundry to do and they're trying to figure out how to get it done (I'm not exaggerating, I've actually read these posts). They talk about spending the entire weekend doing laundry. And having laundry baskets full of clean clothes and living out of laundry baskets. Having loads and loads of laundry folded but not put away and never being caught up with laundry.<br />
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Now, before I go on, I want to say that I believe blogs and Instagram and other forms of social media should be used to encourage one another. I read comments where folks are downright mean and hateful criticizing someone else. I'm not criticizing anyone, just telling you how I did it. I have never owned a laundry basket in my life. Never. I throw a load of laundry in the washer, I put it in the dryer, and I put it away . . . as soon as I take it out of the dryer. <span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Never touch clean laundry twice is my best advice for anybody out there struggling with laundry!!</span> <br />
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My husband is a full-time farmer and his clothes are FILTHY, and our two kids were constantly involved in one or more sports. I work full time so I was gone all day 5 days per week. I got off work at 5 o'clock every night then drove 30 minutes home. I did laundry nearly every night. Never "saved" laundry until the weekend. And I never struggled with laundry either so I really don't understand why so many people have issues with laundry? I mean it was just part of my life. I threw a load in while I was fixing supper. Then put the clothes in the dryer as soon as the wash cycle was finished. Then I put it away, most of the time right before I went to bed. Even a large capacity dryer (which I had) only holds so many clothes. So open the door and put that laundry away!! Save yourself moving it to a laundry basket, then wherever you would put clean laundry that you don't put away?? I just don't understand why the laundry quandry for so many people. Don't touch it twice. I washed our bed sheets once a week and then put them right back on the beds. Only had one set of sheets for each bed so no choice but to put them right back on.<br />
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Right now I have a load of "whites" in the dryer. As soon as I get home tonight I'll throw a load of "work" clothes in the washer. And when I say work clothes they are our farming clothes so believe me, they're really, really dirty. Once I get the washer going I'll take the towels and such out of the dryer, fold everything then carry it to where it belongs and put it away. No laundry basket needed. I mean, really, it doesn't take 5 minutes to fold and put away one load of whites?? The work clothes . . . . when the cycle is done I'll throw those in the dryer and then put them away. I carry all those jeans and work shirts into our bedroom and put them on the bed. I fold the jeans in half and put them in the drawer and I take the work shirts and hang them in the closet. Again, realistically, five minutes maybe? And it's done. <br />
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One question I do have . . . how can you have 10 loads of clothes?? My husband and I do not have a lot of clothing. I own 3 pairs of jeans, and he owns maybe 6 pair. He has maybe 6 or 8 work shirts and a couple of "dress" shirts. I work full time and will wear the same pair of pants more than once per week. And that's my choice. We just don't spend much money on clothing. But I wonder how many clothes do these people have to have in order to have 10 loads of dirty clothes??? How many clothes do you need ? ? ? <br />
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So what about you? Did you struggle to keep your laundry caught up? Are you like me . . . laundry is not a big deal? Inquiring minds want to hear your laundry story!!Down On The Farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00172041056064630527noreply@blogger.com2