This past Sunday I did something that was very difficult for me to do, I walked into church alone. I walked into a church that I don't regularly attend, where practically nobody knows me with my head held high and a huge smile plastered accross my face! Alone!
As I mentioned in a previous post I had no problem walking into my old church alone because I was already very comfortable there (we've since moved away from the city where the church is). Since moving to our new town I had only attended church 3 times, and it was with a friend of mine who has since moved accross the country. And because I didn't get to know anybody at the church I didn't feel comfortable to go back alone.
But, Saturday evening I had this overwhelming urge to attend a service. I just knew that I had to get up in the morning and go. I can't begin to tell you how nervous I was. I prayed over and over for God to lead me in the right direction, to give me the confidance to go alone, and to soften my heart and mind so I ould be open to the people and the sermon. By Sunday morning I felt ready and excited to go. I was up bright and early and had some time before I needed to leave and decided that a bit of quiet time with the Lord was what I needed. I opened my bible and I was brought to Psalms 23:
The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
This Psalm has comforted me in the past, and it was funny that my random page flipping brought me there. I actually laughed out loud, I really felt like I was getting the biggest message of all, from the big man Himself! I can't be afraid of walking into church alone. Because I am never alone. Jesus is always with me. He has lead me through so many things in life both good and bad, that surely I can walk into this church knowing that I don't need one other person beside me, as long as I have Him! So away I went. And no joke, the smile on my face as I walked through those church doors was all because I knew Jesus was right there with me. The worship was amazing, the sermon was good, and everyone I spoke to was friendly. I can't believe it took me this long to figure out what should have been so simple. I'm never alone. So now I've conqured my fear, and on Sunday morning I will be there again. And even though I appear to walk in alone... We are never alone. Thank you, Jesus!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Pumpkin Cupcakes ~Soo yumm-o~
OK, I apologize in advance because you are going to LOVE these and they just might be the source of a little Fall weight gain... Even I, who isn't normally a pumpkin flavor fan just can't get enough!
I got this recipe from a good friend of mine, Lindsay. She already had half the neighborhood hooked!These cupcakes are so moist and tasty that everyone will ask for more and everyone will want the recipe! They are also super easy to make so it's a good one to get the kids involved with! I literally throw everything into 1 bowl, so clean ups a breeze too!
Ingredients:
4 Eggs
2 Cups Sugar
1 Cup Vegetable oil
2 Cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp Baking Soda
2 tsp Cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
2 Cups/1 large can of 100% pumpkin pure (not the pie filling)
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl, and either scoop into paper lined muffin pans, OR you could also use loaf pans. (just adjust baking time to about 60 mins or until toothpick comes clean)
Bake @ 350 for about 15 mins depending on cupcake size. Cool and top with Cream Cheese frosting! Or, I've also made a cinnamon glaze when I make it in loaf pans.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
Equal parts Cream cheese and butter. I normally do 1 cup of each. blend well, add icing sugar (confectioners sugar) I don't measure the sugar, I get it to the sweetness and piping consistency that we like. Spread or pipe onto cupcakes and sprinkle with cinnamon!
These are such a great treat for the Fall/Halloween festivities that will be popping up!
Enjoy!
Smiles & Blessings
Corrine
Ingredients:
4 Eggs
2 Cups Sugar
1 Cup Vegetable oil
2 Cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp Baking Soda
2 tsp Cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
2 Cups/1 large can of 100% pumpkin pure (not the pie filling)
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl, and either scoop into paper lined muffin pans, OR you could also use loaf pans. (just adjust baking time to about 60 mins or until toothpick comes clean)
Bake @ 350 for about 15 mins depending on cupcake size. Cool and top with Cream Cheese frosting! Or, I've also made a cinnamon glaze when I make it in loaf pans.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
Equal parts Cream cheese and butter. I normally do 1 cup of each. blend well, add icing sugar (confectioners sugar) I don't measure the sugar, I get it to the sweetness and piping consistency that we like. Spread or pipe onto cupcakes and sprinkle with cinnamon!
These are such a great treat for the Fall/Halloween festivities that will be popping up!
Enjoy!
Smiles & Blessings
Corrine
A journey to Christian fellowship
I. Am. Lonely.
I have my wonderful hubby, 3 wonderful children, and lots of friends who I love and value.
But...
I am lonely. Why? you ask... Well, I have no Christian friends. Like I said, I have lots of great friends. Women I can trust who are kind, and are fun. But no Godly women. My quest to walk with Jesus seems to be somewhat of a foreign concept to them. Not that they don't support my faith, but I think somewhere in their heads they compare it to me writing letters to Santa. Like God is some type of a mythical character.
So you see, I'm lonely.
I do have one Christian friend, who I love and adore (this women and her family were really who introduced me to Christ years and years ago) but alas, she lives in a different town, and is a busy working mama so phone time is limited to once every few months. We pray for each other, but we don't pray together. I would love to have someone to pray with (other then the kids).
Are you wondering why I don't just pray with my husband? Well, he's not a Christian either. That's right, I married a wonderful non-christian! And I don't regret a thing because as far as husbands and fathers go, Mike takes the cake! No, really... He's AWESOME! And I know in my heart of hearts that God is working through me, to get to him. And I will stand by his side and wait as long as it takes for him to get there.
But... in the meantime... I. Am. Lonely.
I don't regularly attend a church in my town. For a few reasons (none really good enough) but mostly because family commitments (kids hockey) and me being uncomfortable walking into a new church alone hold me back. When we lived in the city I had "my" church. If I couldn't go every week that was okay, because I was always welcomed like I was never away when I was back. And because I felt so comfortable there and had a few friends that attended the same church walking in alone was never intimidating.
I know that part of me meeting new Christian friends is going to come hand in hand with going to church, but the 3 times I attended service I didn't feel welcome. It may have been my own insecurities, but that's just how I felt.
So how do I stay close to Christ? Well I follow many Christian bloggers (partly my inspiration for starting my own blog) I read Christian books, and I read the bible and pray daily.
I'm so happy that there are so many women who are such inspirational followers of Christ, willing to blog about everything that's important to me. The ministry that these women have online is such a God send to me at this point in my life. In fact, connecting to these blogs is what set my heart on fire all over again for Christ. It's always been there, but was ignited ten fold after finding a few blogs that speak so directly to my heart that I just KNOW God lead me to them. These women (who have no idea who I am) have inspired me more then they could ever imagine. And if I can't have "real life" Christian fellowship right now, then I will bathe in the fellowship I have online. I pray everyday that the Lord will lead me to positive, faith-sharing friends and if you have time, maybe you could pray for me too?
And to you wonderful Christian bloggers - THANK YOU. Truly from the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Smiles & Blessings
Corrine
I have my wonderful hubby, 3 wonderful children, and lots of friends who I love and value.
But...
I am lonely. Why? you ask... Well, I have no Christian friends. Like I said, I have lots of great friends. Women I can trust who are kind, and are fun. But no Godly women. My quest to walk with Jesus seems to be somewhat of a foreign concept to them. Not that they don't support my faith, but I think somewhere in their heads they compare it to me writing letters to Santa. Like God is some type of a mythical character.
So you see, I'm lonely.
I do have one Christian friend, who I love and adore (this women and her family were really who introduced me to Christ years and years ago) but alas, she lives in a different town, and is a busy working mama so phone time is limited to once every few months. We pray for each other, but we don't pray together. I would love to have someone to pray with (other then the kids).
Are you wondering why I don't just pray with my husband? Well, he's not a Christian either. That's right, I married a wonderful non-christian! And I don't regret a thing because as far as husbands and fathers go, Mike takes the cake! No, really... He's AWESOME! And I know in my heart of hearts that God is working through me, to get to him. And I will stand by his side and wait as long as it takes for him to get there.
But... in the meantime... I. Am. Lonely.
I don't regularly attend a church in my town. For a few reasons (none really good enough) but mostly because family commitments (kids hockey) and me being uncomfortable walking into a new church alone hold me back. When we lived in the city I had "my" church. If I couldn't go every week that was okay, because I was always welcomed like I was never away when I was back. And because I felt so comfortable there and had a few friends that attended the same church walking in alone was never intimidating.
I know that part of me meeting new Christian friends is going to come hand in hand with going to church, but the 3 times I attended service I didn't feel welcome. It may have been my own insecurities, but that's just how I felt.
So how do I stay close to Christ? Well I follow many Christian bloggers (partly my inspiration for starting my own blog) I read Christian books, and I read the bible and pray daily.
I'm so happy that there are so many women who are such inspirational followers of Christ, willing to blog about everything that's important to me. The ministry that these women have online is such a God send to me at this point in my life. In fact, connecting to these blogs is what set my heart on fire all over again for Christ. It's always been there, but was ignited ten fold after finding a few blogs that speak so directly to my heart that I just KNOW God lead me to them. These women (who have no idea who I am) have inspired me more then they could ever imagine. And if I can't have "real life" Christian fellowship right now, then I will bathe in the fellowship I have online. I pray everyday that the Lord will lead me to positive, faith-sharing friends and if you have time, maybe you could pray for me too?
And to you wonderful Christian bloggers - THANK YOU. Truly from the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Smiles & Blessings
Corrine
Thursday, August 4, 2011
~Our 3 joys~ Introduction to the boys!
Never in a million years would I have guessed that I would be blessed with 3 boys! Growing up I knew I would be a mother. There was no question in my mind that I would get married and have children. I didn't know how many. But I knew I would have girls and that I would dress them in matching outfits. Well, 3 kids later and no girls in sight! I am the only female in this house. Even our sweet puppy is a boy!
And you know what...? I wouldn't have it any other way! I LOVE having boys!! They are messy, stinky, hyper, and busy but I wouldn't change a thing. They are also sensitive, kind, loving, and adore their momma!! :)
Yes they fight - but they get over it as quickly as the problem arises and are best friends again!
Yes they make some crazy messes, and I am constantly finding rocks in my washing machine - but they are quick to help clean up and lend a hand!
And YES they are very noisy - but the minute someone in the house needs a calm, tender moment they are quiet as mice and full of love and cuddles.
All 3 of our boys are wonderful! And each of them amaze us everyday with their talents, intelligence, and eagerness to learn and explore.
Ryan (8) - I can't believe our oldest "baby" is going into grade 4! He is SO smart, and reading well beyond his grade level. He is a gifted student, and athlete, and is seriously mind boggling at building/creating things. Whether it be with Lego, or some cardboard and glue, you can guarantee this boy will come up with something amazing! Not to mention his awesome gaming skills - he'd hate for me to forget that!!
Jaxon (4) - This "baby" starts kindergarten in the Fall! How did time go by so quickly? Jaxon is our Mr. Sensitive. And Mr. Imaginative! He loves to sing, dance, and put on a good show. And he is great at doing so. His imagination is so great that before we know it we're completely enthralled by his performance! And he is also hilarious... In our case it's "Jaxon says the darnedest things"! He is our family entertainer!
Tyson (2) - "Tyson the Fighter" is this guys nickname! Our sweet boy has pretty much been fighting for his life since the minute he was born. Between having a heart condition, (which has required heart surgery as well as potential future surgeries) Epilepsy, and multiple severe allergies this little man keeps us on our toes! Despite the many trials he has already had in such a short time, this guy is energetic, happy, and SO smart! Due to difficulties with all his medical stuff there have been questions in the past about how well he would or would not develop mentally and emotionally. But he is amazing, surpassing every doctors expectations! (Thanks YOU Jesus!)
As I'm sure you can tell by now, our kiddos are pretty much awesome! :) We know each day, that these children are a blessing. Doesn't mean that everyday is easy, or that there aren't days where my children have sent me to the brink of insanity. But it means that everyday we make the best choices we can for them, and that no matter what has happened in a day each child is showered in love, hugs, and kisses!
Don't forget to enjoy your children daily. We will never get this time back with them, and they are so worth slowing down for, and enjoying!
Smiles & Blessings,
Corrine
And you know what...? I wouldn't have it any other way! I LOVE having boys!! They are messy, stinky, hyper, and busy but I wouldn't change a thing. They are also sensitive, kind, loving, and adore their momma!! :)
Yes they fight - but they get over it as quickly as the problem arises and are best friends again!
Yes they make some crazy messes, and I am constantly finding rocks in my washing machine - but they are quick to help clean up and lend a hand!
And YES they are very noisy - but the minute someone in the house needs a calm, tender moment they are quiet as mice and full of love and cuddles.
All 3 of our boys are wonderful! And each of them amaze us everyday with their talents, intelligence, and eagerness to learn and explore.
As I'm sure you can tell by now, our kiddos are pretty much awesome! :) We know each day, that these children are a blessing. Doesn't mean that everyday is easy, or that there aren't days where my children have sent me to the brink of insanity. But it means that everyday we make the best choices we can for them, and that no matter what has happened in a day each child is showered in love, hugs, and kisses!
Don't forget to enjoy your children daily. We will never get this time back with them, and they are so worth slowing down for, and enjoying!
Smiles & Blessings,
Corrine
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
A blogger newbie - let me introduce myself!
Well, here I am. A blogger! I will admit, this is not my first attempt at starting a blog. I have started with 2 other attempts but for some reason my past attempts never felt right. Soo, after much prayer and thought on the subject I feel ready to share the start of my blog. So join me, on my journey through this beautiful (but hectic) life of mine.
Here's what you need to know: My name is Corrine, I am married to an amazing man (Mike), we have 3 wonderful sons (Ryan 8, Jaxon 4, & Tyson 2) and a shih tzu named Snickers.
We live in a moderate sized town in Alberta, Canada in a home that doesn't quite fit us, but we make it work!
I stay home with the kids, and also have a little cake/cupcake business that I do from home for family and friends. I'm a Christian, and am trying my very best to be a Proverbs 31 women that does everything for the glory of God! BUT I am far from perfect, and am learning more and more everyday how to walk with Christ! Thank the good Lord for grace! :)
The reason I want to be a blogger: After following many wonderful blogs and finding so much encouragement and support on homemaking, marriage, parenting, and faith I felt like I had ideas to contribute and share with women too. Also, I wanted to start writing on my youngest sons chronic health struggles, to encourage and support others going through similar situations and also to find support and encouragement for myself and family. And, whether I'm good at it or not, I LOVE to write!
What you will find on my blog: Obviously I'm new, so I'm not 100% certain on what direction my blog will take, but my ideas are to post on everything marriage/family/parenting related, my walk with Jesus, my sons health issues, recipes, and cake/cupcake tips and recipes. I will have personal posts about my day to day life. The good and the struggles, and I hope that there are people out there that can relate!
What you will NOT find on my blog: Negativity! Yes life is tough, and yes there will be struggles and difficult topics at times (I'm sure). But NO intentional negativity. No rude or vulgar posts. And certainly nothing degrading towards my family, friends, or the people who read my blog. I will be following my rule book on this folks - The Holy Bible!
I really look forward to getting my blog growing and connecting with my readers! (look at me assuming people will read this! hehe) Please feel free to leave comments, and if you re a blogger too leave me your link so we can all support each other! And please, be patient with me! I am a total newbie and am currently NOT blogger savvy! ;)
Smiles & Blessings,
Corrine :)
Here's what you need to know: My name is Corrine, I am married to an amazing man (Mike), we have 3 wonderful sons (Ryan 8, Jaxon 4, & Tyson 2) and a shih tzu named Snickers.
We live in a moderate sized town in Alberta, Canada in a home that doesn't quite fit us, but we make it work!
I stay home with the kids, and also have a little cake/cupcake business that I do from home for family and friends. I'm a Christian, and am trying my very best to be a Proverbs 31 women that does everything for the glory of God! BUT I am far from perfect, and am learning more and more everyday how to walk with Christ! Thank the good Lord for grace! :)
The reason I want to be a blogger: After following many wonderful blogs and finding so much encouragement and support on homemaking, marriage, parenting, and faith I felt like I had ideas to contribute and share with women too. Also, I wanted to start writing on my youngest sons chronic health struggles, to encourage and support others going through similar situations and also to find support and encouragement for myself and family. And, whether I'm good at it or not, I LOVE to write!
What you will find on my blog: Obviously I'm new, so I'm not 100% certain on what direction my blog will take, but my ideas are to post on everything marriage/family/parenting related, my walk with Jesus, my sons health issues, recipes, and cake/cupcake tips and recipes. I will have personal posts about my day to day life. The good and the struggles, and I hope that there are people out there that can relate!
What you will NOT find on my blog: Negativity! Yes life is tough, and yes there will be struggles and difficult topics at times (I'm sure). But NO intentional negativity. No rude or vulgar posts. And certainly nothing degrading towards my family, friends, or the people who read my blog. I will be following my rule book on this folks - The Holy Bible!
I really look forward to getting my blog growing and connecting with my readers! (look at me assuming people will read this! hehe) Please feel free to leave comments, and if you re a blogger too leave me your link so we can all support each other! And please, be patient with me! I am a total newbie and am currently NOT blogger savvy! ;)
Smiles & Blessings,
Corrine :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)