The Jordans

My sweet nephew - Levi Glenn Wallace

2010-11-29T08:46:00.001-08:00

Sweet Levi was born this morning at 8lbs and 3 oz, 21 inches long.

Playing catch...

2010-11-09T20:22:00.000-08:00

Liam is 16 months old today, so I thought I would show you one of the many new things he has learned to do. Here's a little video of Liam playing catch with his Daddy. :)

October

2010-11-09T20:11:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to give you a little taste of October. We went to a Pumpkin Patch in Argyle - Liam tried the jump house for the first time and did awesome! Didn't stand up, but totally held his own bouncing on his knees! He also did his part rooting for the Rangers (thanks to Aunt Shelley for the hat, he finally has decided he likes to wear it). Finally, after much thought and discussion, he decided to dress as Moses for Halloween.

My silly boy

2010-08-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

Liam at 12 months

2010-08-06T19:19:00.000-07:00

2010-07-26T15:08:00.000-07:00

It is a world of magic and mystery, of deep darkness and flickering starlight. It is a world where terrible things happen and wonderful things too. It is a world where goodness is pitted against evil, love against hate, order against chaos, in a great struggle where often it is hard to be sure who belongs to which side because appearances are endlesssly deceptive. Yet for all its confusion and wildness, it is a world where the battle goes ultimatley to the good, who live happily ever after, and where in the long run everybody, good and evil alike, becomes known by his true name... That is the fairy tale of the Gospel with, of course, one crucial difference from all other fairy tales, which is that the claim made for it is true, that it not only happened once upon a time but has kept on happening ever since and is happening still. -

Frederick Buechner

Because He Is Good - Matt Chandler Sermon Jam

2010-07-13T07:09:00.000-07:00

This is how Liam Lives United. :)

2010-07-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I apparently am a terrible blogger. But I have decided that this is the last time I will apologize for it. I will try to post more often, but have decided to not feel guilty, either way. :)

On another note, Liam and I recently made an appearance at a 5K Run fundraiser for United Way. Here is a few pics with our friend Jodi. He was super cute and extremely popular.

Little Things CAN make a huge difference. :)

2010-03-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

I think this is a little like what it will be in heaven, when we meet the people we affected in positive ways without even knowing it.

'Cause puppets are just funny....

2010-02-12T11:38:00.000-08:00

Liam in the snow this morning!

2010-02-11T07:49:00.001-08:00

Liam enjoyed being out in the snow this morning. His favorite part was watching Max jump and play!

Liam likes the baby in the mirror...

2010-02-04T18:42:00.000-08:00

Liam Talking to Mommy

2010-02-04T18:13:00.000-08:00

A chicken and a tomato...

2009-12-21T12:22:00.000-08:00

This morning at my office, I was helping to distribute toys to a local non-profit preschool, when the preschool director told me a story:

Every year the children in the preschool write letters to Santa. This year the staff were confused about the request from a 4 year old boy - He asked Santa for a chicken and a tomato...

When his teacher asked him why he was asking for a chicken and a tomato instead of a toy, he told her -

It's because he was hungry.

I cried a little this morning when I heard this. This is a little boy right here in Denton, Texas - where many of us are worrying about how busy we are this week, and how to juggle traveling, and in-laws, and presents.

A 4 year old boy in Denton Texas wants a chicken and a tomato for Christmas so he won't be hungry...

I am thankful for this reminder of what I SHOULD be worrying about - being Jesus to those around me. Are we paying attention to our neighbors and coworkers who might be worried about just keeping the heat on, or the rent paid, or gas in the car so they can go to work?

Kenny and I don't have a lot of money. In fact, this past year we have had to rely on family members to make ends meet due to unpaid maternity leave and job loss - but we are STILL SO LUCKY. We have not had 1 day when we went hungry, or wondered if we were going to be out "on the street" because we couldn't pay our bills.

Isaiah 58:7 - I want you to share your food with the hungry and to provide shelter for homeless, oppressed people. When you see someone naked, clothe him! Don’t turn your back on your own flesh and blood!

We are so thankful for our wonderful friends and family in Denton and around the state of Texas. We will be challenging ourselves this week to focus on those around us - and hope you think about doing the same.

By the way - the 4 year old boy did receive a winter coat and shoes, and his family was given the opportunity to buy $250 in groceries and household items (provided by this local prescool).

We love you all. Merry Christmas.

i carry your heart

2009-12-16T12:09:00.000-08:00

i carry your heart, by ee cummings

i carry your heart with me
(i carry it in my heart)
i am never without it
(anywhere i go you go,my dear;
and whatever is done by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear no fate
(for you are my fate,my sweet)
i want no world
(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you
here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;
which grows higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart
i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

2009 Christmas Portraits!

2009-12-15T13:47:00.001-08:00

Our sweet, fun boy!

2009-12-15T13:45:00.000-08:00

Liam's 3 Month Portraits

2009-12-15T13:37:00.000-08:00

Bumbo and Jumper

2009-10-15T18:44:00.001-07:00

Liam is so big sitting in his bumbo. He is learning new things so fast. He holds up his head well enough, that Kenny finally put together the Jumperoo - and he loves to sit in it even though he doesn't know how to jump yet. His first time in he fell asleep!

First trip to Daingerfield!

2009-10-15T18:41:00.000-07:00

Liam was VERY entertained by his cousin Erin!

Catching up...

2009-10-15T18:20:00.000-07:00

Pictures of Liam mostly from the past month, though a couple are really early on.

A few recent pictures...

2009-10-08T15:08:00.001-07:00

Jesus is My Friend!

2009-10-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

A few more from the hospital.

2009-08-21T08:27:00.000-07:00

I finally found the rest of our pictures from Liam's birth. Here he is meeting Aunt Megan and Uncle Larry for the first time.

With Aunt Wa and Uncle Rusl at the hospital.

Perfectly content in Aunt Shelley's arms!

Liam with his super cool cousins, Erin and Trent!

He already loves his Pawpaw!

Liam's first portraits

2009-08-03T13:35:00.001-07:00

Thank you Kim for taking these beautiful shots of our boy!

Liam's first 3 weeks....

2009-08-02T17:25:00.000-07:00

Liam Kristopher!

2009-07-13T15:39:00.001-07:00

Our sweet baby boy is finally here! Liam was born Thursday, July 9 at 6:34pm. He weighed 8 lbs 2 oz and was 21 inches long. He is so precious and perfect! Here are a few pictures to get started...

This is at 6:30am - we are about to leave for the hospital!

The first time we saw our son.

Here we are about to leave and come home! Boy, this being born business sure is tiring!

2 Things that made me smile today...:)

2009-04-24T10:27:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vq6b9bMBXpg

http://vimeo.com/moogaloop..swf?clip_id=2539741

I love this. This made my day. :)

2009-04-16T15:09:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALQCkizx4UI

Schedule your session now!

2009-03-12T15:07:00.000-07:00

Spring Special!

This Spring Jordan Ward Photography is offering a Portrait Special - Schedule any portrait session with me and you will receive 1/2 off creative fees and a free 5 X 7 with any print order! That's a savings of $90!!!

Call now - I really need the work to get ready for this new little addition to our house! Your portrait session must be scheduled before May 31, 2009 to take advantage of this deal!

To schedule your session, call: me at940-368-3038 or send me an email at leokjwan@yahoo.com. For more information, you can visit my web site at http://www.jordanwardphotography.com/.

I look forward to hearing from you! Thanks!

It's a Boy!

2009-03-11T08:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we found out that our baby is a boy! Here is one of the pictures from the sonogram.

Halfway there!

2009-03-02T08:36:00.000-08:00

Today starts our 20th week of pregnancy! Though we won't know if we are having a boy or girl until our scheduled appt on March 10, we do know a lot about how he/she is growing!

Weight: About 10 1/2 ounces

Length: about 10 inches, head to heel...about the size of a banana! Heehee!

Favorite way to spend the day: Just floating around kicking and distracting Mama from all the things she should be doing...:)

Just for Fun - My nephew laughing...

2009-02-27T14:46:00.001-08:00

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

2009-02-27T14:34:00.003-08:00

Okay, so I was just looking at my blog realizing how much of a blogging loser I am for not posting in 2 MONTHS! Oh my.....I will definitely be doing better in the coming months. There really has been a lot going on...here are a couple of pics from our ski trip to Angelfire over New Year's - though baby and I didn't ski, we just hung around the condo with Logan!

I have been working a lot the past 2 months, and my belly has been growing - I started feeling the baby moving around about 3 weeks ago, and on March 10 we will go for the next sonogram to find out if we're having a boy or girl! Woohoo!

9 Weeks!

2008-12-16T10:13:00.000-08:00

Yay! After hearing the HEARTBEAT this morning - we are so excited to announce our baby on the way! We are so excited and are projecting a due date of July 20...:)

Dedicated to our Sci-Fi friends out there...

2008-11-03T11:29:00.000-08:00

A little Halloween Fun...

Small Francis Invasion

2008-10-25T20:24:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Allison and Joel Francis stayed with us. We had soooo much fun with face paiting and the pumpkin patch.

Kenny noticed that Joel's spaghetti spill was in the shape of a J, and determined it was picture worthy.

Allison requested a clown face. We determined it was awesome.

Laura came to the pumpkin patch with us, where we rode the carriage...

Random pics.

2008-10-14T12:39:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while - but in the spirit of making up for it, here are some fun pics from the last couple of years that I got from my Mom just this past weekend.

Here is a pile of all of us at my parent's house for Christmas.

I'm not sure what to tell you about his one.....Rusl is my favorite in this picture.

Kenny rode in Waco with Russell and his Dad last year. He is also a wierdo.

I like this shot of Kenny - I think riding his bike is when he is happiest....ha!

For Larry's birthday, we took a private tour of Texas Stadium.

Kenny in the tunnel where they run out.

Us girls decided it would be a great idea to run the length of the field. It was actually really fun!

Smiley Max

2008-09-07T20:06:00.001-07:00

Vacation pics...

2008-09-07T19:49:00.001-07:00

Here are a few pics from our vacation to the coast a week ago.

Deep, Meaninful, Life-Giving, Dangerous Things...

2008-08-21T07:31:00.000-07:00

Took this from Matt Chandler's email this week. Liked it so much, I wanted to share. I am incredibly good at filling my day with busy-ness and dwelling on things that take away from the joy and peace that He wants to give me.

Psalm 103:15-16 says "As for man, his days are like grass; he flourishes like a flower of the field; for the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place knows it no more." Life is short. I don't think that is news to anyone but read it again this way: your life is short. With life moving so fast I don't want to get caught up in things that rob me of the fullness of life Christ came to bring. I want to guard my heart against bitterness, anger, deceit, and I want to chase after deep, meaningful, life-giving, dangerous things. I think this is what Jesus was talking about in John 10:10 when He said He came to "bring life to the full." My prayer for you and me this week is that we wouldn't waste our short lives on silly things but rather spend our lives on things that matter. - Matt Chandler

Ummmm....yeah.

2008-08-12T13:00:00.001-07:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Vegetables...finally.....

2008-08-04T07:50:00.000-07:00

So we are finally getting a few veggies from the garden - yeah!

These were very yummy.

Logan's Photo Shoot

2008-07-23T15:06:00.000-07:00

I got to spend a long weekend with Larry, Megan and Logan this past weekend. While there, Logan had his first "professional" photo shoot. He was a natural - and really knows how to ham-it-up for the camera!

2 Things I Love

2008-07-18T09:05:00.000-07:00

The first things I want to share are 2 links to articles in the Denton Record-Chronicle today. Just a couple of reasons I love my brothers and sisters at The Village.

http://www.dentonrc.com/sharedcontent/dws/drc/localnews/religion/stories/DRC_Local_mission_project_0718.6908f6c0.html

http://www.dentonrc.com/sharedcontent/dws/drc/localnews/religion/stories/DRC_Church_merger_0718.69068bc5.html

Second, I was thinking this morning about the fact that I will be away from Kenny for about 4 days - and how most of our conversations the past couple of days have leaned more toward arguing than building each other up. This is one trap I tend to fall into very easily. So, to try to make up for it a little bit - I thought I would list just a few of the things I LOVE about my husband.

The way he knows how to fix things around the house.
The way he doesn't do anything halfway.
He is open to trying new things - most recently quinoa, hummus and tofu - because I started eating healthier.
He volunteers to go fill up my gas tank when he thinks I am low on gas - because he knows I HATE to pump gas.
He prays for me.
He loves my family.
He loves kids, and isn't afraid to clean messes, change diapers, etc.
He is selfless.
He proudly takes our little poodle for a walk.
He never hesitates to help anyone, with anything.
Bear hugs that make my spine crack.
He reaches for my hand whenever we pray.

I love you honey. I am so proud to have spent almost 10 years of my life married to you.

I asked the Lord...

2008-07-18T08:34:00.000-07:00

Daily I have to struggle with the need to want to control things. If something needs to be done, fixed, changed, managed...I am your girl. Here's what I've recently discovered though - most of my frustration and despair comes from moments when I try to have the most control, and it doesn't do any good. I read these words today, and John Newton says it so much better than I can. What a beautiful reminder for us when we struggle with things out of our control! That thou mayest seek thy all in me... That thou mayest seek thy all in me.

I Asked The Lord
(by John Newton)

I asked the Lord that I might grow
In faith and love and every grace
Might more of His salvation know
And seek more earnestly His face

Twas He who taught me thus to pray
And He I trust has answered prayer
But it has been in such a way
As almost drove me to despair

I hoped that in some favored hour
At once He'd answer my request
And by His love's constraining power
Subdue my sins and give me rest

Instead of this He made me feel
The hidden evils of my heart
And let the angry powers of Hell
Assault my soul in every part

Yea more with His own hand He seemed
Intent to aggravate my woe
Crossed all the fair designs I schemed,
Cast out my feelings, laid me low

Lord why is this, I trembling cried
Wilt Thou pursue thy worm to death?
"Tis in this way" The Lord replied
"I answer prayer for grace and faith"

"These inward trials I employ
From self and pride to set thee free
And break thy schemes of earthly joy
That thou mayest seek thy all in me,
That thou mayest seek thy all in me."

Max is very bendy.

2008-07-11T10:09:00.000-07:00

I know this is dark, but I took it with my phone in a semi-dark room. This is just weird.

He layed like this for quite a while, though I can't see how it can be comfortable.

It's Okay if My Dreams Don't Come True...

2008-07-10T09:55:00.000-07:00

One of the blogs I read regularly is 97 Seconds With God. Yesterday's post really nailed ME on the head ...click here to view it.

http://97secondswithgod.blogspot.com/2008/07/genesis-29-safety-of-wait.html

Waiting (for any number of things) has been one of my biggest struggles my entire adult life. The world around us does not promote waiting for anything... and I have only recently started to accept that things WILL NOT happen on my time (begrudgingly). When I got married, I had so many expectations of my husband and our life and where we would be when we are 30 - and none of those things have happened yet! (I'm 32)

But what has come along with that is a new perspective on what my time of waiting should consist of...reflecting HIM to others in my everyday life. Sounds like a simple Sunday School answer - but I wonder how many others are like me in taking so long to see things this way - like the job I go to everyday IS my mission. I work for a non-profit. I always knew I was doing good...but until recently did not really see it as the purpose God has for me RIGHT NOW. Maybe something really important will come out of the little things I do today, that would not happen if all of my "dreams" came true.

I think this is the difference between knowing something, and truly believing it (For those of you who attend the Village - the gospel finally "dropped" on this one for me!). I "knew" that God had a specific purpose for me, but had to realize that it wasn't necessarily the same as what I "imagined" that purpose would be. And I am beginning to be okay with that.

Laura, in case you didn't know...

2008-06-25T07:49:00.000-07:00

Laura, in case you didn't know, we have quite a lot of fun with Angel when she comes to visit. Just a couple of pics to give you an idea of the kinds of fun she has...

And for those of you who haven't been to visit yet, a couple pics of the living room and kitchen. It is all still pretty much a work in progress..

Sarcastic Wednesday

2008-06-18T13:47:00.000-07:00

In observance of Sarcastic Wednesday, I want to share a blog that I read that I absolutely love! With a healthy (vitamin packed) dose of sarcasm, it addresses various aspects of the christian life that we struggle with, or at times should at least question! Today's post addressed the prosperity gospel that seems to be the new fad in so many mega-churches...( and beyond).

Here are a couple of quotes from his blog today, and the comments posted in response.

I couldn't find a single example where Jesus fixed someone's problem with money. I could not find where He healed a situation with more stuff. I know you will tell me that Abraham was rich and Joseph had a really nice coat, but what about Jesus? I could not find a passage in His life where a possession was the solution. The second problem was that I could not get around the idea that being prosperity focused did not make it easy for me to keep the number one commandment, which is love God. And it didn't make it easier to love others. It almost felt like I was trying to rewrite those verses and reorder them to say, "Love yourself, Love God and love others." I can't be first though. I have to be last. - John Acuff

"I have three things I'd like to say today. First, while you were sleeping last night, 30,000 kids died of starvation or diseases related to malnutrition. Second, most of you don't give a shit. What's worse is that you're more upset with the fact that I said shit than the fact that 30,000 kids died last night." - Tony Campolo

www. stuffchristianslike.net - Just check it out. If you don't like it, I promise not to get my feelings hurt! He also writes a couple of other blogs that I think are excellently thought provoking and are mentioned on his site.

Maxwell in the House!

2008-06-11T06:10:00.001-07:00

Okay, so we now have a new "kiddo" in the house - Maxwell, a 5 month old golden retriever. He is soooo sweet! Even Murray likes him - which is really saying something cause Murray doesn't like many other dogs!

Here he is recouperating after our first "walk on a leash". It was pretty traumatic!

Murray and Max hanging out in the yard.

Maxwell enjoying his new bed.

The reason Maxwell no longer has a fancy bed, but now sleeps on an old blanket.

Emily and Bethany

2008-06-10T14:09:00.000-07:00

Here's a great video of my beautiful, sweet and talented cousins, Emily Jane Laird and Bethany Warren singing an original song by Bethany.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hV90dRg02FM

Finally finished Mother's Day gift.

2008-05-25T09:29:00.001-07:00

I finally finished my Mother's Day project, and got it in the mail to my Mom. I think it turned out pretty good. Been feeling extra crafty lately, and looking for ways to use my sewine machine -and I think I may be on an apron kick for a while - this is the first one. Sorry you have to turn your head to the left to see it - for some reason I couldn't get it to post the right direction!

2008-05-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, If you are paying attention, you will notice that this is my 3rd post in the same day. It will be the last for today - just wanted to get a lot up! New pics of the house, now that we are moved in, will be posted soon (probably when the curtains are up - my goal for the weekend...) but in the meantime we had to share pics of our newest project - our organic vegetable garden! I am so excited about this! Monday we just had time to purchase our gardening tools (hoe, wheelbarrow, etc.) and mow and get the spot ready to till. Tuesday we spent tilling, spreading the humus/manure mixture and tilling again. Finally tonight we were able to actually create rows and plant our veggie plants and seeds. Since we are getting it done so late in the spring, we bought a few plants that had already been started, to have something to reap soon - but most of the plot is seeds (2 kinds of tomatoes, green onions, spinach, lettuce, cucumber, red and green bell peppers, jalapeno peppers and an eggplant). So let the experiment begin! Here is what it looks like so far. And by the way, even though Kenny is in all the pics and not me - I actually did a lot of the work too..

By the way...

2008-05-21T19:45:00.000-07:00

A pic I hadn't gotten around to posting before now - we had a lot of great help moving into the house a couple weeks ago - thanks to Jeff, Charlie, Clay, Bob, Brad and Jen. Here you can see Jen trying out our really great "climbing tree" while the guys are in the back "working". Seriously Jen, you are awesome...

Six Flags

2008-05-21T19:32:00.000-07:00

Okay, so as I sit and post these pictures, I realize that Kenny and I have had so much going on lately - I have a ton to post! So I'll just start here...this past Saturday, Kenny's sister Shelley brought our niece and nephew to visit and go to Six Flags. We had a lot of fun - but ended up staying the whole day (literally, 12 hours...crazy, I know). The kids had a great time (their first visit) and did really great all day long.

My beautiful niece, Erin, trying to decide if the next ride really is for her... Look at those eyes!

Shelley and Trent in the hot air balloon ferris wheel -I am not sure what Trent is doing here.
Walking between rides...very seriously...
Uncle Kenny on the carousel.

Phooning

2008-05-20T12:08:00.000-07:00

If you don't know what this is, visit the web site www.phoons.com to become educated. It is a world wide phenomenon - and something my family has been doing for years when on vacation or in really cool places. And yes...we are amused by strange things...

Just got this phooning in "the crib" picture from my 2 week old nephew - he is so smart and such the trendsetter...

Food Drive

2008-05-12T08:43:00.000-07:00

So to top off this uneventful (HA!) week, I had the food drive on Saturday - so tiring, but turned out to be a great event - lots of volunteers showed, and we brought in about 14,000 lbs of food for the Denton Community Food Center.

This community never ceases to amaze me - we life in such a generous town! You post a need, and people really show up! Thanks to the Post Office, American Red Cross, UNT Golf Team, American Humanics, Boy Scouts, DATCU, and so many others for your amazing work!

Here's a taste - for more pics, you can view the photo album on my facebook page.

More Logan pics!

2008-05-12T08:18:00.000-07:00

Well, after a day or so of adjsting work schedules, we finally made it to The Woodlands to see our new nephew - he is so amazing. Here are some of the pics from our visit.

He was not very happy with us when we dressed him up for his photo shoot! But still oh so cute!

Logan Wallace!!!

2008-05-07T09:47:00.001-07:00

Wow. I am so overjoyed that I have been crying all morning! I know, sappy - but for those who don't know me that well - I can be pretty sappy. Anyway, I digress.

My beautiful nephew was born this morning!

He arrived at about 7:45am. He weighs 6 lbs 19 1/2 inches. He is a little early, but both he and Mom are doing great.

That's all for now - I have to get on the road. I will post more later.

The New House...Stage 1.

2008-05-01T19:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, so our move has finally begun. Here are a few pics of the house while we are cleaning - before all our stuff is in. Jean Claude has assumed his position on our front porch...

Kenny painting the front entryway closet.

Looking at the Living Room from the dining room.

The red room - this will be the office.

Kitchen - I guess its kinda self explanatory.

Eating our first meal in the new house. Sandwiches on the floor. They were yummy.
And here is the back yard from the porch. It is so big - Murray will love it!!!

Megan's Baby Shower!

2008-04-28T14:55:00.000-07:00

Saturday the 5 of us (Me, Kenny, Murray, Laura and Russell) drove to Spring so we girls could go to Megan's baby shower. We had so much fun - and got to see their new house for the first time. Megan is so beautiful - an has just a few weeks left before Logan gets here. They got a lot of great gifts - and we got to see some family we haven't seen in a while - the beautiful Laird girls (and Aaron and Avery too) !

Avery was the only boy allowed at the shower - he is very mushy cuddly and looks just like his Daddy - Aaron.
Bethany's beautiful Elaina kept Laura and the rest of us laughing as she demonstrated all the fun things she was learning to do with her tongue!

Mimi and Nana showed of a couple Logan's new t-shirts!

Me, Mom, Megan, Betty and Laura.

Murray got in on a little of the fun - this is what happens when you get in the middle of gift organization time!

Please Pray for our Troops.

2008-04-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

I know we hear this phrase a lot - but I got a reminder this past week not to let it become so commonplace that it just becomes something we say. ( I hope that sentence makes sense!)

This past Wednesday my cousin's brother-in-law, Tim Cunningham, was killed while serving in Iraq. He was an Army Ranger who had married just a couple of years ago and has a 13 month old daughter. His brother (my cousin's husband) who is also an Army Ranger, escorted his brother back to the United States over the weekend and they will have the funeral this Thursday.

I know many of you do not know them (some of you do), but if you feel comfortable doing so please say a prayer that God will shower this family with His presence this week and in the months to come.

2008-04-21T11:57:00.000-07:00

Okay, since tomorrow is earth day, thought this week I would write about what we can do to protect the beautiful world that God has entrusted to us. I have just recently jumped on the "Green" bandwagon - and truthfully, most of the changes don't require that much extra work, and some are kind of fun! For example, I used my sewing machine to make a bunch of cloth napkins, and now we use those instead of paper towels or napkins - and every meal feels a little fancier! Here are some other ideas I pulled from the web site www.earth911.org.

Green Shopping Tips
A family of four can save thousands of dollars a year simply by buying products in the largest size they can use and by buying long lasting reusable items. Think about the effect of your purchases on the environment when you shop. Items with excess packaging and products that need to be discarded after only a few uses cost more money, use up valuable resources and create more waste.

Buy Products in the Largest Size You Can Use; Avoid Excess Packaging
A family of four can save $2,000 a year in the supermarket by choosing large sizes instead of individual serving sizes. Remember, 10 cents of every shopping dollar is used to pay for packaging. Small sizes use more packaging for each ounce of product than larger sizes. So, if you buy large sizes, you save money, reduce waste, and help the environment. That is a really good buy. Here are a few good examples; look for others the next time you shop.

+Buy cereal in a large box instead of in individual serving sizes.
+Buy juice in concentrates and use reuseable containers instead of single serving packages.
+Save money by buying bottled water in a large plastic jug instead of six packs of 16 ounce bottles.
+Buy large packages of sugar and flour.
+Avoid the small boxes of raisins and buy the same amount in the 24 ounce box.
+Buy Products in Containers That You Know You Will Be Able to Recycle

Buy Reusable and Long Lasting Items
Products that can be reused are cheaper in the long run than those you throw away and buy over and over again. Goods that are designed to last a long time are also cheaper in the long run than those that wear out quickly. A family can save $1,000 each year buy buying reusable and long lasting products.

+Use rechargeable batteries in toys, flashlights and radios. You can save $200 a year by using rechargeable batteries instead of disposables in one CD player used two hours a day.

+Use cloth diapers instead of disposable diapers. You’ll save $600 per child by using a laundry diaper service instead of disposable diapers.

+Use a real camera instead of disposable ones. If you take 24 pictures each month you will save $144 each year.
+Use washable plates, cups, and silverware for parties and picnics instead of disposable products.
+Use an electric razor or hand razor with replaceable blades instead of disposable razors.
+Buy high quality/long life tires. They cost less per mile traveled and reduce the problem of disposing of used tires.
+Use a washable commuter mug for your morning coffee and eliminate a Styrofoam or plastic cup every day.
+Bring bags to the market, either cloth ones or your old paper and plastic ones. Many markets will credit your bill for using your own bags. When buying only a few items, don’t take a bag.
+Clean and service your appliances, computers, tools, and cars so that they will enjoy even longer lives. And, before you replace them, check to see if they are repairable. Consider sharing equipment that is used infrequently such as hedge clippers, pruners, fruit pickers, or chain saws.
Happy Green Shopping!!!

2008-04-16T11:57:00.000-07:00

Most of us lead a very comfortable, sheltered life compared to the rest of the world. That is why Kenny and I sponsor a 6 year old girl from Malawi named Pilirani. Take a moment and pray to see if God is leading you to do the same. We choose to give through World Vision, though there are other organizations that also do an amazing job (ex: Compassion International). Feel free to ask us if you want to know more. The link to sign up is http://www.worldvision.org/. Here is a picture of beautiful Pilirani!

2008-04-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

I found what I think is a good article on shopping organic - and what it really means...

Organic foods: Are they safer? More nutritious?
Find out what factors might influence your decision to buy or bypass organic foods.
From MayoClinic.com

Several differences between organic and nonorganic foods exist. Become a better informed consumer for your next trip to the supermarket.

Conventional vs. organic farming

The word "organic" refers to the way farmers grow and process agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products and meat. Organic farming practices are designed to encourage soil and water conservation and reduce pollution. Farmers who grow organic produce and meat don't use conventional methods to fertilize, control weeds or prevent livestock disease. For example, rather than using chemical weedkillers, organic farmers conduct sophisticated crop rotations and spread mulch or manure to keep weeds at bay.

Here are other differences between conventional farming and organic farming:

Conventional Farmers
Apply chemical fertilizers to promote plant growth.

Spray insecticides to reduce pests and disease.
Use chemical herbicides to manage weeds.

Give animals antibiotics, growth hormones and medications to prevent disease and spur growth.

Organic Farmers

Apply natural fertilizers, such as manure or compost, to feed soil and plants.
Use beneficial insects and birds, mating disruption or traps to reduce pests and disease.
Rotate crops, till, hand weed or mulch to manage weeds.
Give animals organic feed and allow them access to the outdoors. Use preventive measures — such as rotational grazing, a balanced diet and clean housing — to help minimize disease.

Organic or not? Check the label

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has established an organic certification program that requires all organic foods to meet strict government standards. These standards regulate how such foods are grown, handled and processed. Any farmer or food manufacturer who labels and sells a product as organic must be USDA certified as meeting these standards. Only producers who sell less than $5,000 a year in organic foods are exempt from this certification.

Products certified 95 percent or more organic display this USDA sticker.

If a food bears a USDA Organic label, it means it's produced and processed according to the USDA standards and that at least 95 percent of the food's ingredients are organically produced. The seal is voluntary, but many organic producers use it.

Products that are completely organic — such as fruits, vegetables, eggs or other single-ingredient foods — are labeled 100 percent organic and can carry a small USDA seal. Foods that have more than one ingredient, such as breakfast cereal, can use the USDA organic seal or the following wording on their package labels, depending on the number of organic ingredients:

100 percent organic: Products that are completely organic or made of all organic ingredients.
Organic: Products that are at least 95 percent organic.

Made with organic ingredients: These are products that contain at least 70 percent organic ingredients. The organic seal can't be used on these packages.
Foods containing less than 70 percent organic ingredients can't use the organic seal or the word "organic" on their product label. They can include the organic items in their ingredient list, however.

You may see other terms on food labels, such as "all-natural," "free-range" or "hormone-free." These descriptions may be important to you, but don't confuse them with the term "organic." Only those foods that are grown and processed according to USDA organic standards can be labeled organic.

Organic food: Buy or bypass?

Many factors may influence your decision to buy — or not buy — organic food. Consider these factors:

Nutrition. No conclusive evidence shows that organic food is more nutritious than is conventionally grown food. And the USDA — even though it certifies organic food — doesn't claim that these products are safer or more nutritious.

Quality and appearance. Organic foods meet the same quality and safety standards as conventional foods. The difference lies in how the food is produced, processed and handled. You may find that organic fruits and vegetables spoil faster because they aren't treated with waxes or preservatives. Also, expect less-than-perfect appearances in some organic produce — odd shapes, varying colors and perhaps smaller sizes. In most cases, however, organic foods look identical to their conventional counterparts.

Pesticides. Conventional growers use pesticides to protect their crops from molds, insects and diseases. When farmers spray pesticides, this can leave residue on produce. Some people buy organic food to limit their exposure to these residues. Most experts agree, however, that the amount of pesticides found on fruits and vegetables poses a very small health risk.
Environment. Some people buy organic food for environmental reasons. Organic farming practices are designed to benefit the environment by reducing pollution and conserving water and soil.

Cost. Most organic food costs more than conventional food products. Higher prices are due to more expensive farming practices, tighter government regulations and lower crop yields. Because organic farmers don't use herbicides or pesticides, many management tools that control weeds and pests are labor intensive. For example, organic growers may hand weed vegetables to control weeds, and you may end up paying more for these vegetables.

Taste. Some people say they can taste the difference between organic and nonorganic food. Others say they find no difference. Taste is a subjective and personal consideration, so decide for yourself. But whether you buy organic or not, finding the freshest foods available may have the biggest impact on taste.

Buying tips
Whether you're already a fan of organic foods or you just want to shop wisely and handle your food safely, consider these tips:

Buy fruits and vegetables in season to ensure the highest quality. Also, try to buy your produce the day it's delivered to market to ensure that you're buying the freshest food possible. Ask your grocer what day new produce arrives.

Read food labels carefully. Just because a product says it's organic or contains organic ingredients doesn't necessarily mean it's a healthier alternative. Some organic products may still be high in sugar, salt, fat or calories.

Don't confuse natural foods with organic foods. Only those products with the "USDA Organic" label have met USDA standards.

Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly with running water to reduce the amount of dirt and bacteria. If appropriate, use a small scrub brush — for example, before eating apples, potatoes, cucumbers or other produce in which you eat the outer skin.

If you're concerned about pesticides, peel your fruits and vegetables and trim outer leaves of leafy vegetables in addition to washing them thoroughly. Keep in mind that peeling your fruits and vegetables may also reduce the amount of nutrients and fiber. Some pesticide residue also collects in fat, so remove fat from meat and the skin from poultry and fish.

2008-04-09T16:31:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm finally posting a pic of Murray. Here is a random pic Kenny took of him in our living room.

And here is what he looks like when he thinks you are giving him something stinky.

2008-04-09T15:27:00.001-07:00

We have a new little mascot at the United Way office - actually 3 of them, but I could only get a good picture of this one. He is very small, and apparently mischievous, since opossums are supposed to sleep during the day. I think they are living under our back steps. We call him Fred.

2008-04-07T18:16:00.000-07:00

My beautiful nephew! Here is the latest picture - I love that he looks like he's smiling and he has my brother's mouth...He is so incredible.

2008-04-07T16:48:00.000-07:00

Kenny here - I obtained my shortwave radio license about ten years ago and have met some very interesting people on the radio waves. I thought I would take this hobby and put it to use in my community. I took some courses in meteorology and then started to use these skills along with my licensce to become a part of skywarn. This association is linked with the national weather service in which I report to during severe weather warning emergency officials to activate city warning alarms. This is a photo I took in Lewisville,TX. Intense wall cloud trying to form a tornado. This photo was shot at about 2-3 miles away from cloud formation. I actually was able to capture this phenomonon, but my truck did receive dime to quarter size hail dents trying to get southeast of the storm to capture the perferct photo. I measured winds up to 58 miles per hour. Storm dynamics are unbelievable, I got hooked on the science behind the storm. This photo was taken at the end of march 2008, only the beginning of north texas severe weather season.

2008-04-07T13:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I just recently noticed the section of the menu at Starbucks that features drinks all under 200 calories - even venti size! My new Starbucks fave is the Coffee Frappachino Light. Yum. I am however, having to ration my visits due to my lack of a Starbucks budget.

2008-03-26T12:49:00.000-07:00

Here is the most recent photo of our sweet baby nephew! We are so ready to meet you and see what you look like. We love you.

2008-03-23T16:23:00.001-07:00

Well, I made a really
tiring trip to Vegas last
week on a fact finding mission.
I did however, walk the
strip and take a few shots.
Nice to visit, wouldn't want
to live there.

2008-03-23T16:17:00.000-07:00

Our trip to New Mexico was a really

great break from work. We hit the

slopes and then just hung out with

my parents for a couple of days.

Somehow Kenny and I managed

to not get one picture with us both in it...

2008-03-21T13:44:00.000-07:00

Laura and I had so much fun
in Waco hanging out with Mom
at her Clogging Rally! We even
took a couple of classes ourselves...

Let it Snow...7 inches!

2008-03-06T14:00:00.000-08:00

Wow! What incredible weather this is! Thank you God for the reminder to slow down and enjoy your beautiful world today...