There's going to be a fundraiser for the Lafollette Alaksa Missions Team tomorrow. It's a bbq lunch right after church. Check it out in the Lafollette United Methodist Church fellowship hall. The proceeds will help the missions team to get to and from Alaska.
Our assignment on the missions trip is going to be to install windows in the parsonage. We'll be there in June for a week.
I'm thinking about driving. It sounds like it's going to be an interesting and beautiful journey. This is, if I can raise the funds to get there. We'll see...
February 28, 2009
February 27, 2009
Frugal Living: What's Lent got to do with it?
What does Lent have to do with frugal living? For Christians, it can give us an added incentive to get started. Lent is the Christian season of self-denial where we deny ourselves something in dedication to God.
Why can't Lent be used as a springboard to develop habits that lead to lifetime changes?
For my household, we are going to be giving up extra trips that are made just to eat out. For our lifetsyle this is going to be hard. There are times when we have to eat-out because of work obligations or meetings. At those times, we're going to make it a point to select from the lower priced menu options, forgo appetizers and drink water (with one exception).
The other night, my husband and I had a late meeting because of work. Being over an hour away from home meant that we had to eat out. Ordering water saved us almost $5.00.
Now that it is Lent we're going to be ordering water a lot more and cutting back on eating out in other ways. Our plans are for it to become a lifelong habit. It's a good thing that it is Lent. We'll need that "divine intervention" to help us get started.
Why can't Lent be used as a springboard to develop habits that lead to lifetime changes?
For my household, we are going to be giving up extra trips that are made just to eat out. For our lifetsyle this is going to be hard. There are times when we have to eat-out because of work obligations or meetings. At those times, we're going to make it a point to select from the lower priced menu options, forgo appetizers and drink water (with one exception).
The other night, my husband and I had a late meeting because of work. Being over an hour away from home meant that we had to eat out. Ordering water saved us almost $5.00.
Now that it is Lent we're going to be ordering water a lot more and cutting back on eating out in other ways. Our plans are for it to become a lifelong habit. It's a good thing that it is Lent. We'll need that "divine intervention" to help us get started.
February 26, 2009
Jacksboro UMC Ash Wednesday Service
Last night, I went to the Ash Wednesday service at Jacksboro, TN. During an Ash Wednesday service you seek forgiveness from God for something that you have done wrong. This is written on a slip of paper. The paper is then burned in a small pot and the ashes placed on your forehead. It is a dignified, solemn service.
The service last night was different from any I have ever attended. It is one that I am likely going to remember for a long time to come.
Jacksboro UMC has a children's ministry on Wednesday nights. Kids are brought in by the van load to learn about God, have dinner and enjoy each other. It was the decision of the adults who are over the kids to bring them upstairs for the Ash Wednesday service and I am so glad that they did!
The kids were enthusiastic. The pastor asked for a couple of volunteers to help hand out the slips of paper. About a dozen responded without hesitation. It is said that "a child shall lead" and so they did.
The pastor gave us a few minutes to write down our responses. As he did this he talked about Ash Wednesday and what it meant. He talked of preparation, new beginnings and hopes. The kids took it all in. When the pastor called for us to line up to place our papers in the bowl the kids came forward eagerly, but carefully. They reverently held their paper over the candle and dropped it into the bowl.
Each child seemed to understood what they were doing. How cool is that?
It would be nice if I could say that these kids are in church every Sunday morning. They aren't. For the most part they are allowed to come by parents who don't care. God sees them and through the people of Jacksboro UMC the kids have been provided with unofficial Godparents.
These Godparents make sure that the kids are there on Wednesday nights to learn about God. They feed them. Teach them. Listen to the kids, love them and then send the kids home with the knowledge that someone cares about them and that God is always near.
Can any of us ask for more?
February 24, 2009
Ephesus Mediterannean Grill Knoxville Restaurant You've Been Reviewed
Have you heard of the Knoxville restaurant called Ephesus Mediterranean Grill? It's on the Cumberland Ave. Strip. Hubby and I got to go there for Valentine's Day. We were impressed by the food and liked the service.
It's nice to see another ethnic restaurant in the area. This family owned and operated Knoxville restaurant that is destined to be a hit.
Ephesus Mediterranean Grill, You've Been Reviewed! Rating: 4 Stars
Click here to see why: Ephesus Mediterranean Grill
It's nice to see another ethnic restaurant in the area. This family owned and operated Knoxville restaurant that is destined to be a hit.
Ephesus Mediterranean Grill, You've Been Reviewed! Rating: 4 Stars
Click here to see why: Ephesus Mediterranean Grill
February 23, 2009
Exploring Jacksboro
When Hubby and I first moved to Jacksboro, TN we set out to learn more about the area. It's a beautiful part of East Tennessee. Coming straight off of the move, we didn't have a lot of money. Everything we did needed to be as inexpensive as possible.
Now, with the economic downturn it looks like other people are in the same boat with us. Unfortunately, that boat seems to be getting larger everyday. Whether you live in Jacksboro, TN; Knoxville, TN; or in a big city, there are some things you can do to have fun without forking over large amounts of cash.
We'll be talking about some of those tips in the upcoming days.
Now, with the economic downturn it looks like other people are in the same boat with us. Unfortunately, that boat seems to be getting larger everyday. Whether you live in Jacksboro, TN; Knoxville, TN; or in a big city, there are some things you can do to have fun without forking over large amounts of cash.
We'll be talking about some of those tips in the upcoming days.
February 22, 2009
Alaska Trip Takes Shape
The Alaska trip is shaping up. We met at Lafollette UMC today to discuss the trip plans. It looks like the costs to install windows etc. in the Willow, AK parsonage are going to run an estimated $9K. That's an enormous amount of money! Getting there is around $1K. I can't imagine what it's going to be like. Meeting the folks who live there is going to be cool. June seem so far away on one hand and extremely close on the other hand.
I'm looking forward to sharing it with you by posting on the blog here. Let's just hope they have WI-FI in Alaska.
I'm looking forward to sharing it with you by posting on the blog here. Let's just hope they have WI-FI in Alaska.
February 20, 2009
Coping in an Economic Downturn
Coping in an economic downturn isn't easy. My family and I are having to make some adjustments. Your probably is too. Everywhere you look things are down. We're all in the same boat.
For me and my family, we've stopped eating out (unless it's a review). We still do movies but only because my daughter works for a theater. Sometimes a movie will be playing elsewhere that I really want to go see. But, we don't get to go.
Some other ways we've found to cut back have been to order Angel Food boxes and to eat out at church on Wednesday nights instead of elsewhere. We're combining on trips to save on gas.
But to learn more I've started reading online. Here are some websites and blogs that have been helpful to me. Maybe they'll have some ideas you can use too?
http://patverettosfrugalliving.blogspot.com/
http://frugalliving.about.com/
http://live-frugal.blogspot.com/
For me and my family, we've stopped eating out (unless it's a review). We still do movies but only because my daughter works for a theater. Sometimes a movie will be playing elsewhere that I really want to go see. But, we don't get to go.
Some other ways we've found to cut back have been to order Angel Food boxes and to eat out at church on Wednesday nights instead of elsewhere. We're combining on trips to save on gas.
But to learn more I've started reading online. Here are some websites and blogs that have been helpful to me. Maybe they'll have some ideas you can use too?
http://patverettosfrugalliving.blogspot.com/
http://frugalliving.about.com/
http://live-frugal.blogspot.com/
February 14, 2009
Happy Valentine's Day
For the first time in years Hubby and I celebrated a quiet Valentine's Day. There were no kids running in and out. We were able to relax and enjoy the evening. Nice...
Wherever you are, whoever you spent it with, I hope that you enjoyed your Valentine's Day too.
Wherever you are, whoever you spent it with, I hope that you enjoyed your Valentine's Day too.
February 13, 2009
Alaska Missions Trip Signed for on the Dotted Line
There's something about signing your name on a document that sends a tingle up your spine.
I committed fully today to going on the Alaska missions trip with LaFollette United Methodist Church. Sometimes you have to stretch your boundaries. This trip will take me to places that I have never been either physically nor emotionally. It's exciting, scary and spiritually uplifting all at the same time.
We'll be installing windows in a parsonage in Willow, Alaska. I'll not only be helping another UMC but another pastor's wife. I'm pumped! I'll plan on taking lots and lots of photos to post right here on the blog.
But first, comes the fundraising. I'll keep you posted on that too.
I committed fully today to going on the Alaska missions trip with LaFollette United Methodist Church. Sometimes you have to stretch your boundaries. This trip will take me to places that I have never been either physically nor emotionally. It's exciting, scary and spiritually uplifting all at the same time.
We'll be installing windows in a parsonage in Willow, Alaska. I'll not only be helping another UMC but another pastor's wife. I'm pumped! I'll plan on taking lots and lots of photos to post right here on the blog.
But first, comes the fundraising. I'll keep you posted on that too.
February 12, 2009
Aubrey's Restaurant in Lenoir City
Today, my husband and I met a colleague of his at Aubrey's Restaurant in Lenoir City. We had a great time. The server was the best we've had anywhere in awhile. We thought the food was tasty too. I'll be posting a full review on Associated Content too. As soon as it's ready I'll post here.
Our server missed all of my pet peeves. She kept the tea glasses full. The plates were removed promptly and she had a winning personality. It's a pretty unbeatable combination. She was also able to answer questions, make suggestions and be sure that our food was delivered correctly to our table.
Our server missed all of my pet peeves. She kept the tea glasses full. The plates were removed promptly and she had a winning personality. It's a pretty unbeatable combination. She was also able to answer questions, make suggestions and be sure that our food was delivered correctly to our table.
February 11, 2009
East Tennessee Storms in Jacksboro
East Tennessee storms rocked through Jacksboro between 4:30pm and 5:00pm. They were quick to move through. Here's a photo that I took on the way home from church. My trash cans were blown over in the side yard and were joined by the chair from our neighbor's yard. All in all, nothing to complain about.
February 10, 2009
Radio Show on Blog Talk Radio
My hat is off to all of the pros who make radio shows look easy. I was on last night for Hope for Healing.Org. This is going to be a regular weekly broadcast.
Boy, was I ever nervous when the call lines started lighting up! It worked out ok. Actually, it seemed like the callers must have been nervous too. None of the calls came through. The chat lit up. So did Instant Messenger. A couple of emails came in for good measure. That was interesting. Still, it was fun and educational for me if not for anyone else.
Today, I got a message from someone who downloaded the broadcast and listened to it as a podcast. That was pretty cool. We'll see what next week brings. I guess I'll see ya online.
Gayle
Boy, was I ever nervous when the call lines started lighting up! It worked out ok. Actually, it seemed like the callers must have been nervous too. None of the calls came through. The chat lit up. So did Instant Messenger. A couple of emails came in for good measure. That was interesting. Still, it was fun and educational for me if not for anyone else.
Today, I got a message from someone who downloaded the broadcast and listened to it as a podcast. That was pretty cool. We'll see what next week brings. I guess I'll see ya online.
Gayle
February 08, 2009
Gayle Crabtree on Feb. 9 Internet Radio Show
Monday night I'll be on the Hope for Healing.Org Blog Talk Radio Show. The segment is going to be on Survivor Spiritual Issues. As you may know, I'm the author of Does God Still Love Me and Secondhand Hope. This is a new and exciting way to reach others with the message of God-sent healing.
Feel free to tune in. It's at 11:00 pm on Monday, Feb. 9. The url is http://www.blogtalkradio.com/hopeforhealing
If you would like to call in we'd love to have you. Call in to (718)506-1545. Normal long distance charges from the phone company will apply.
See you online on the Internet Radio Show at 11:00 pm Eastern time.
Feel free to tune in. It's at 11:00 pm on Monday, Feb. 9. The url is http://www.blogtalkradio.com/hopeforhealing
If you would like to call in we'd love to have you. Call in to (718)506-1545. Normal long distance charges from the phone company will apply.
See you online on the Internet Radio Show at 11:00 pm Eastern time.
Taken The Movie Human Trafficking
My family and I went to see the movie Taken last night. It stars Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Leland Orser, Anjul Nigam and Jon Gries. The film is quickly paced and full of violence.
Because of my work for Hope for Healing.Org it is impossible for me not to like this film.
Taken is built around the theme of human trafficking. Hopefully, this film will generate dinnertable discussion in homes around the globe. The movie worked so well as an awareness raiser that I almost expected to see the hotline number shown as the credits rolled.
Some estimates state that almost 1 million people are trafficked annually. The US is not immune.
In case you don't have it the number is: 1.888.3737.888
For more information visit: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking/about/victim_assist.html
Because of my work for Hope for Healing.Org it is impossible for me not to like this film.
Taken is built around the theme of human trafficking. Hopefully, this film will generate dinnertable discussion in homes around the globe. The movie worked so well as an awareness raiser that I almost expected to see the hotline number shown as the credits rolled.
Some estimates state that almost 1 million people are trafficked annually. The US is not immune.
In case you don't have it the number is: 1.888.3737.888
For more information visit: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking/about/victim_assist.html
February 05, 2009
Have you heard of Barbop.Com yet?
I've been looking at getting help for the fundraisers we do at work. While I was researching options Barbop.com caught my eye. They look and sound so good, I thought I would post about them here.
Barbop.com covers Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia and a small part of North Georgia.
They have everything you need for a good party. You can find a wedding bartender or general bartenders and baristas. And you don’t have to worry. Not only is Bar Bop fully insured but they have mobile bar rentals and glassware rentals.
This sounded good but I was really impressed when I looked at their options. A lot of people like the flair and fun of having a bartender for hire but they don’t like alcohol. Bar Bop offers nonalcoholic packages. These are perfect for children or non-alcoholic fun!
Check them out. They have everything spelled on their FAQ page. Go to http://www.barbop.com/FAQ.html
Barbop.com covers Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia and a small part of North Georgia.
They have everything you need for a good party. You can find a wedding bartender or general bartenders and baristas. And you don’t have to worry. Not only is Bar Bop fully insured but they have mobile bar rentals and glassware rentals.
This sounded good but I was really impressed when I looked at their options. A lot of people like the flair and fun of having a bartender for hire but they don’t like alcohol. Bar Bop offers nonalcoholic packages. These are perfect for children or non-alcoholic fun!
Check them out. They have everything spelled on their FAQ page. Go to http://www.barbop.com/FAQ.html
Blog Talk Radio Hope for Healing.Org
Tonight, for the second time, I hosted a Blog Talk Radio show. It was about the Strawberry Plains nonprofit where I work. My hats are off to all the pros who make this look easy! I was shaking in my boots. Good thing this is radio and not television. My knocking knees would definitely have been picked up on camera.
On the line with me tonight was Allie. She's my daughter but is also the summer youth coordinator for Hope for Healing.Org. We're still getting next week's show lined up. I don't know who it is going to be yet. But I do hope I get the hang of this.
We did this so we could talk about the local services that are offered by Hope for Healing.org in Strawberry Plains.
On the line with me tonight was Allie. She's my daughter but is also the summer youth coordinator for Hope for Healing.Org. We're still getting next week's show lined up. I don't know who it is going to be yet. But I do hope I get the hang of this.
We did this so we could talk about the local services that are offered by Hope for Healing.org in Strawberry Plains.
February 01, 2009
Potato Skins and Velveeta Cheese Dip Our Superbowl Favorites!
For Superbowl Sunday our family loves potato skins and the easy to fix Velveeta cheese dip.
The Velveeta cheese dip is a snap.
You need:
1/2 package Velveeta Cheese (A substitute brand may be thinner. If so, adjust the milk)
1 sm. can Jalapeno peppers
1/4 - 1/2 cup of milk.
Heavy saucepan
Put all the above ingredients in a double boiler or heavy saucepan. Add the peppers without draining the can first. Heat on medium until the cheese is thoroughly melted and hot. Stir often. Remove from heat when the mixture starts to boil. You may place place the Velveeta cheese dip in a small crock pot to keep it warm while serving. Serve with tortilla chips and enjoy!
The potato skin recipe is available on Associated Content. Click the link to the right to view it. I hope your family loves the recipes as much as we do.
The Velveeta cheese dip is a snap.
You need:
1/2 package Velveeta Cheese (A substitute brand may be thinner. If so, adjust the milk)
1 sm. can Jalapeno peppers
1/4 - 1/2 cup of milk.
Heavy saucepan
Put all the above ingredients in a double boiler or heavy saucepan. Add the peppers without draining the can first. Heat on medium until the cheese is thoroughly melted and hot. Stir often. Remove from heat when the mixture starts to boil. You may place place the Velveeta cheese dip in a small crock pot to keep it warm while serving. Serve with tortilla chips and enjoy!
The potato skin recipe is available on Associated Content. Click the link to the right to view it. I hope your family loves the recipes as much as we do.
Daughter Joins Caryville UMC
This morning is a special one. My daughter joins Caryville UMC today. It's an exciting morning.
Hubby is the appointed pastor of two United Methodist Churches. The larger one is in Jacksboro. Caryville is drawfed by Jacksboro but is made up of very strong believers. This quiet strength has spoken to my daughter. In turn, the church has embraced her in a way that no other church has. They have offered a very solid environment and my daughter in turn promises to support them with her prayers, presence, gifts and service.
Our kids do not always join the churches that Hubby serves. In fact, this daughter did not join the last church. She said she never felt quite comfortable there and we respected her decision.
Which makes this morning all the more sweet!
See you when my daughter joins Caryville UMC this morning. I'd better get moving!
Hubby is the appointed pastor of two United Methodist Churches. The larger one is in Jacksboro. Caryville is drawfed by Jacksboro but is made up of very strong believers. This quiet strength has spoken to my daughter. In turn, the church has embraced her in a way that no other church has. They have offered a very solid environment and my daughter in turn promises to support them with her prayers, presence, gifts and service.
Our kids do not always join the churches that Hubby serves. In fact, this daughter did not join the last church. She said she never felt quite comfortable there and we respected her decision.
Which makes this morning all the more sweet!
See you when my daughter joins Caryville UMC this morning. I'd better get moving!
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