tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91500861373663509382023-11-15T23:58:38.379-08:00by December 1st"The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of the shadow of death
a light has dawned.
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:2,6by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-39469911051360009502012-07-15T21:46:00.000-07:002012-07-15T21:52:15.194-07:00Collection of great tips from the past<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #191919; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; line-height: 23px;"></span><br />
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"When setting up your holiday planner/control journal, see the Flylady website or Organized Christmas for great tips. At least include a master gift list, envelope for receipts, pen/pencil, and recipes/grocery lists. Consider using a plain binder or notebook, nothing too cutsie or Christmasy less you spark the interest of little curious eyes! Also, you may want to leave the first few pages blank in case the wrong little (or big) person opens your planner, the first page will not have all of your Christmas secrets right up front!"<br />
" When tagging gifts wrapped for your children, give each child a secret name or number so that the card reads To: #3, or secret name From Mom and Dad or Santa, whoever! This adds to the fun of guessing whose gifts are whose and takes away any tendency to see who has the most gifts under the tree. The same code names or numbers can also be used on shopping lists in case the list gets into the wrong hands!!<br />
"If you have a desire to simplify decorating for the holidays, limit your decorating efforts to five areas only: Christmas tree, front door, one mantle, one banister, and EITHER your dining room table or your kitchen table. Your house will feel festive and uncluttered through out and you will not be WORN out! Of course, if decorating is your thing and brings you joy, not stress, then decorate away!!!"<br />
" Order Chrsitas PJ's for your family now, when selection is good!"<br />
"I print a copy of my Christmas Card list from my computer with addresses and keep in in my planner. I am always surprised how often I need to refer to it for an address to mail a package, when I have a few minutes sitting in a pick up line and I can address a few cards, or to mail an invitation. I now keep this list in my planner year round".<br />
"Instead of saving entire catalogs, I buzz thru them daily and only keep the page I like with the gift idea I like circled. I put the name of who it would be appropriate for on it and I check to make sure there is a phone # or website address at the bottom of the page. Then I store it in my Christmas notebook." Tracy<br />
"My extended family always struggles with what to get my boys for Christmas. They don't want to get something they already have and are often just not sure what to get. I have started making a short list for each of them and emailing it by the end of October. I keep a list of this on my computer so that nothing is duplicated." Angi<br />
"Last year I made notes about how I decorated my house (and took pictures) kept my favorite and/or easy Christmas recipes and my favorite Christmas card styles so that I would have them for a quick reference when I started this year. My notes were very helpful and reminded me of some things I forgot about last year." Jennifer<br />
"Put out a holiday puzzle...I bought one on sale for half price after Christmas last year and can't wait for our family to sit by the fire and the tree and work it together. Isn't that why we are doing all of this?" Tracy<br />
"Wrap one side of your extended family with one side of your christmas paper and the other side for the other when using a 2 sided paper like Sally Foster. You could also accomplish this by using two different papers or different color ribbon with the same paper. It really helps when packing up to visit one side of the family to make sure you have not forgotten anyone's gift!." Jennifer<br />
"Using cute ribbon, tie Christmas Cards on a Christmas tree each day they arrive. You can then pray for the families on the tree...and after taking them down...continue to pray for a few of them each day all year long by scrolling through them each morning during your quiet time. " Tracy<br />
"As a former teacher, I always loved getting ornaments from my students. Each year when I hang them, I always think of that child. Make sure to write your child's name in permanent ink somewhere on the ornament." Angi<br />
"Limiting number of gifts children receive is the most common bit of advice passed along. Saves money, space, and unfailingly encourages appreciation for fewer well selected items."<br />
"Best tip from last year: Letting each of my four kids pick just one thing that is Christmas to them and then I am focused on only four special things instead of running around all Christmas trying to do all things." Tracyby Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-16070094560665134682009-12-07T20:27:00.000-08:002012-07-15T21:42:00.141-07:00A Sweet Email<br /><br />Hey, friends! Hope you are all having a wonderful joy-filled December! I received this message from an out of state friend from college. I just wanted to share it...as an encouragement to whomever started this whole December 1 group (Laurie, was it you?) Well, it is such a blessing (although I'm severely behind this year...I'm not stressin'!!) to encourage others to start early in order to enjoy the season and keep the true focus where it belongs...on the birth of our precious Lord. SO, I just want to share this sweet message. I was merely passing on what sweet friends had shared with me, so I really feel this message was sent to the wrong person! Here's what she wrote on December 3rd:<br /><br />Hey Karen,<br />I loved your "Simplifying Christmas" post . . . and even more, I loved what you said on fb or your blog awhile back about finishing shopping, cards, etc by Dec 1. It made me realize that every year, I get to Christmas Eve, and I am stressed out, exhausted, and haven't cracked a Bible in a week or two (or three). Definitely not the way to celebrate the birth of my Savior! So, this year I decided to follow your December 1 suggestion. I am DONE shopping, DONE wrapping, and my Christmas cards were ready to go even before Thanksgiving! I am so excited to enjoy my best December in a long time. and the best part is that I've inspired at least 3 other people that I know of to do the same thing, and they love it, too. Thank you so much for the wonderful idea!<br />Love, M<br /><br />SO....whoever started this group...this really should be written to you...I encouraged her to keep telling others and maybe even start a group in Arkansas too!<br /><br />Love and Merry Christmas to you all!!<br /><br />KarenKaren Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07570070194165118086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-61464359720669493942009-11-23T15:30:00.000-08:002009-11-23T15:32:06.681-08:00Tinyprints 20% off entire order, 1 more dayOne of my favorite sources for Christmas Cards, stationary, and invitations <a href="http://tinyprints.com">Tiny Prints</a>by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-40126375928188372232009-11-23T14:09:00.000-08:002009-11-23T14:11:28.306-08:00Back To Basic Toys has $5.00 Shipping this weekIf you need to get one of those great toys at Back to Basic Toys. They have a flat rate of $5.00 for shipping until Thursday!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.backtobasictoys.com/">www.backtobasictoys.com</a>mjbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08277269084150095422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-51700186401898017112009-11-20T08:31:00.000-08:002009-11-20T08:58:15.391-08:00Just checking in, not giving upThings do not always go as planned. That is the understatement of the year. Are you where you thought you would be in your Christmas preparations? I know some of you are... I have seen the darling candy canes lining your sidewalk... but I have a feeling some of you are where I am, pretty far off track.<br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(0, 19, 32); line-height: 21px; font-size:14px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Isaiah 41:10</span></span></i></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;"> </span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Please do not give up! I'm not! Adjust your date, adjust your goals, but do not be dismayed! Any part of your plans that you accomplish by December 1st, or 4th, or 7th will put you and your dear family one step closer to a meaningful, worshipful, and relaxed Christmas season. Join me in choosing to do something, even if it cannot be everything and even if it cannot be perfect. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Looking for some darling handmade gift ideas? <a href="http://shealynnbenner.blogspot.com/2009/11/inspire-me-thursday-joyshope.html">These</a> are so so cute, easy, and quick... all for about 50 cents each!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:16px;"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u245/a-zmomma/IMG_6065.jpg" /></span></span></div>by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-7467658334384777612009-11-04T21:48:00.000-08:002009-11-04T21:52:50.930-08:002LoveOrphans.comJennifer Connelly and I have begun an organization called, 2LoveOrphans.com. This Christmas, we are giving you the opportunity to let us do some of your shopping for you! Just go to our website and click on the PRODUCT page...we have set up a program where if you make a donation thru us to Divine Grace Primary School in Uganda, Africa...we will send your gift receipient a card to notify them of your generosity and if you donate beyond $10, we will send your gift recepient a keepsake ornamant. Check out our website for more details...this will be that gift that honors one friend while saving the life of a child...<br />Thanks,<br />Tracy and JenniferTracy Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463933714581945880noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-31447449988777311902009-10-26T21:06:00.000-07:002009-10-26T21:12:14.215-07:00Ribbon half off!Ok ladies, so I went to Hobby Lobby in search of that all white sweatshirt that we are supposed to locate again this year (still searching!), and instead of running away from the holiday section like I have done in years past, I jumped in! Did you know that at the beginning of the season they actually have more than one spool of your favorite ribbon?! Who knew! So the ribbon isle is overflowing with lots of options and as an added bonus it is all 50% off! Check it out!KJ Chesneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05633878311742646478noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-68019963224694079052009-10-23T20:36:00.000-07:002009-10-25T15:30:43.621-07:00Free Shipping at Back To Basics Toys.....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKdzeo4bIZ7_nrsiAiNHLsTitWUBbeCHfGC-jqqlXNNphfJO-CEjEQ8c2Qbo0XINYwBvVqee_XriOXCsow3tH865vYy2MdulcYfSmTA8GJpT5zGhJMQ-KsGvJi-mEQoYM7Wl8FdIj0O7x/s1600-h/100_4027.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 185px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 96px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396008005101363938" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKdzeo4bIZ7_nrsiAiNHLsTitWUBbeCHfGC-jqqlXNNphfJO-CEjEQ8c2Qbo0XINYwBvVqee_XriOXCsow3tH865vYy2MdulcYfSmTA8GJpT5zGhJMQ-KsGvJi-mEQoYM7Wl8FdIj0O7x/s320/100_4027.JPG" /></a>Back to Basics Toys is a website with toys from the past. When my kids were ages 3-10, this site always had that "toy" present. My favorite present from there was a red unicycle and the swing in our tree that still gets swung! Right now there is free shipping! It doesn't happen often so look at the site for any ideas.<br /><div><a href="http://www.backtobasicstoys.com/">http://www.backtobasicstoys.com/</a></div><div></div>mjbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08277269084150095422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-59259050891634981892009-10-23T07:59:00.000-07:002009-10-23T08:23:11.350-07:00A Christmas Trend I LOVE!Most of the time, I see national trends that for one reason or another make me sad...many times these trends involve a lessening of one's faith in Jesus Christ or the trends support beliefs that make me realize, our family is going to have to live counter-cultural. Thankfully, there is one national trend this holiday season that I LOVE! It is being said that this Christmas, people will be giving meaningful gifts...how inspiring is that?!?!?! I know so many generous people and their stories encourage me. I hope this season, people do chose to give to charitable organizations or to families in need in honor of others. That makes the gift two-fold...the honoree feels special and the recipient of the kind gesture feels some relief from their difficult life. Bottom line, both feel loved. And let us face it, while receiving a few gifts is fun for us all, there is only so much STUFF we can have. As I grow, I am seeing that many times STUFF actually becomes a burden. A burden to clean, a burden to store, a burden to repair. If you have done the "love language" Bible study, you know we all have a love language that speaks to us the most...guess what my love language is? Giving and receiving gifts...so, just so ya know, I am all about presents! I do love the thought though, of a gift that will change the life of another...wow, that brings everyone involved joy. Also, as the one who is spending, I know I have made a financial investment with eternal returns! Jennifer Connelly and I are in the process of starting an orphan awareness organization...if you would like to give a gift to a child in need in honor of a friend, teacher, pastor, neighbor etc., just hang in there and we will present you with some wonderful opportunities that will bless your gift recipient and will change the LIFE of a child. We will be working on a project for Divine Grace Primary School in Uganda. We are fired up and we are so excited to have the opportunity to be a part of this national trend!Tracy Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463933714581945880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-78121252928230890612009-10-22T12:31:00.000-07:002012-07-15T21:46:40.881-07:00Great Kick Off, great tips!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIVdHGN4vepplAWqFJ11xYjEM3a7CQzknzQG9sLfnVSSUTeZl0Y2G6leNsaC7aU823gDrKMqWY9h9B4EycB1OZ7_uUrjcdHDfF5nOv_VYm7u2vrCHFW-jUJg3WDKwnqiBomOUS9wUg4UU/s1600-h/IMG_5889.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br />
<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395788311142267410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0JVaYxDcReGMHZ_uLA6tGSYP9ElsFiBqlw1hMy1ApyLzb8b7FNhdvuW-2EcEaJxLZz-2csU1kBcCqYSn9h3clbemBVVolqD1DhbAFDDWaCDgSUAcF7CnukVUwjCuqq5SQuQRC76Gd6NA/s400/4+at+Dec1.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 267px; margin: 0 0 10px 10px; width: 400px;" /><br />
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Thank you Nancy for a great time this morning getting our group off and running with helpful information about how to get started in our pursuit of a peaceful and worshipful holiday season. Here is a collection of tips shared this morning and in the past. Please leave your own tips in the comments section below the post and they will be added to our Words or Wisdom column.<br />
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"When setting up your holiday planner/control journal, see the Flylady website or Organized Christmas for great tips. At least include a master gift list, envelope for receipts, pen/pencil, and recipes/grocery lists. Consider using a plain binder or notebook, nothing too cutsie or Christmasy less you spark the interest of little curious eyes! Also, you may want to leave the first few pages blank in case the wrong little (or big) person opens your planner, the first page will not have all of your Christmas secrets right up front" Nancy<br />
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"Set up a wrapping station! A clever way to do this is to gather all supplies, paper, ribbon, tape, tags, scissors, and place them in a garment bag (the small thin ones used for a single man's suit or dress from a store or for travel). Hang the bag on the back of a door and you will "always have everything to need right on hand to "wrap as you go" and to put the supplies away quickly and neatly. Want to take on a more elaborate set up? Take a look here.<br />
Decorative holiday boxes (found at Hobby Lobby, Michael's) make great looking quick and simple wrapping and are study enough to use for storing holiday items until next year!" Nancy, Missy<br />
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" When tagging gifts wrapped for your children, give each child a secret name or number so that the card reads To: #3, or secret name From Mom and Dad or Santa, whoever! This adds to the fun of guessing whose gifts are whose and takes away any tendency to see who has the most gifts under the tree. The same code names or numbers can also be used on shopping lists in case the list gets into the wrong hands!!" Jennifer and Missy<br />
"If you have a desire to simplify decorating for the holidays, limit your decorating efforts to five areas only: Christmas tree, front door, one mantle, one banister, and EITHER your dining room table or your kitchen table. Your house will feel festive and uncluttered through out and you will not be WORN out! Of course, if decorating is your thing and brings you joy, not stress, then decorate away!!!" Nancy<br />
"Now it a great time to order Christmas cards, special deals abound! Some of our favorites Tiny Prints, Vistaprints, and The Write Impression on the Murfreesboro Square all have special discounts for early birds ranging from 50% off your order, to $20, $40, and $60 off depending on the size of your order, to free address printed envelopes. Getting christmas cards completed by December 1st may the the largest stress relieved of them all!"<br />
"Order Christmas PJ's for your family now, when selection is good! Try Garnet Hill, Pajamagram, or Lands End." Rebecca and KJ<br />
"I print a copy of my Christmas Card list from my computer with addresses and keep in in my planner. I am always surprised how often I need to refer to it for an address to mail a package, when I have a few minutes sitting in a pick up line and I can address a few cards, or to mail an invitation. I now keep this list in my planner year round". Laurie<br />
"Instead of saving entire catalogs, I buzz thru them daily and only keep the page I like with the gift idea I like circled. I put the name of who it would be appropriate for on it and I check to make sure there is a phone # or website address at the bottom of the page. Then I store it in my Christmas notebook." Tracy<br />
" When giving ideas for a gift for your child, such as legos, suggest that the giver include a CONTAINER for storing/organizing them. This is a good tip for any gift with small pieces such as barbies, Polly Pockets, blocks, building sets or any kind, the list is endless! Lisa<br />
"My extended family always struggles with what to get my boys for Christmas. They don't want to get something they already have and are often just not sure what to get. I have started making a short list for each of them and emailing it by the end of October. I keep a list of this on my computer so that nothing is duplicated." Angi<br />
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"Last year I made notes about how I decorated my house (and took pictures) kept my favorite and/or easy Christmas recipes and my favorite Christmas card styles so that I would have them for a quick reference when I started this year. My notes were very helpful and reminded me of some things I forgot about last year." Jennifer<br />
"Take advantage of your crock pot, let it work for you on busy shopping days! Check out these sites for great recipes 50friends and Allrecipes for some new ideas. Also, keep some simple staple "treats" in your pantry for spur of the moment fellowship in your home.... hot chocolate, popcorn, special salsas and chips, ingredients for simple dips. You will always be able to say "come on over" or just enjoy with your family all of the surplus time your preplanning will create! Enjoy!!"<br />
"Put out a holiday puzzle...I bought one on sale for half price after Christmas last year and can't wait for our family to sit by the fire and the tree and work it together. Isn't that why we are doing all of this?" Tracy<br />
"Wrap one side of your extended family with one side of your christmas paper and the other side for the other when using a 2 sided paper like Sally Foster. You could also accomplish this by using two different papers or different color ribbon with the same paper. It really helps when packing up to visit one side of the family to make sure you have not forgotten anyone's gift!." Jennifer<br />
"Using cute ribbon, tie Christmas Cards on a Christmas tree each day they arrive. You can then pray for the families on the tree...and after taking them down...continue to pray for a few of them each day all year long by scrolling through them each morning during your quiet time. " Tracy<br />
"As a former teacher, I always loved getting ornaments from my students. Each year when I hang them, I always think of that child. Make sure to write your child's name in permanent ink somewhere on the ornament." Angi<br />
"Limiting number of gifts children receive is the most common bit of advice passed along. Saves money, space, and unfailingly encourages appreciation for fewer well selected items."<br />
"Best tip from last year: Letting each of my four kids pick just one thing that is Christmas to them and then I am focused on only four special things instead of running around all Christmas trying to do all things." Tracy<br />
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</span>by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-14682726714916269952009-10-19T08:58:00.001-07:002012-07-15T21:43:40.937-07:00It's that time again!<br /><br /><br />Hey Friends,<br /><br />Believe it or not, Christmas is just around the corner! Yea! I can say that because for the past few years, I have gotten most or all of my Christmas cards, shopping, wrapping and decorating finished before December 1! Then, I can sit back and truly enjoy the season of celebrating our Savior's birthday! My family and I can enjoy parties, each other and any celebration that comes our way, because I am relaxed and prepared.<br /><br />I know that many of you have this down pat now and are enjoying the season of Christmas, too. Please come and share your successes. If you have not, you would love it! Just try - you'll be so glad you did!<br /><br />I will be at Starbucks on Old Fort Parkway on Thursday, October 22 at 8:15 a.m. to kick off the early Christmas shopping season. If anyone wants to join me in the kick off and get some great tips and encouragement from others, please bring a 3 ring binder with a zippered pocket (pencil holder type) inside, and some paper. Don't stress over this - if you don't have this, just come on! You can get it later!<br /><br />Please let me know if you can come. That way I can try to get enough seats together.<br /><br />Blessings to you!<br /><br />Nancy<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium;"></span>by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-43395381071735695202008-11-29T11:57:00.000-08:002008-11-29T12:01:05.218-08:00Wheew! Monday is coming.... fast!! Just wanted to spread the word about our plans to get together and celebrate what we have accomplished on December 1st! We are changing the dinner tradition to lunch at Newk's at the Avenue at noon, due to several conflicts. Hope you can make it and please come on for lunch even if you are not quite finished with all you had hoped. You are soooo much better off than you would be if you had not gotten started! Enjoy the rest of this glorious weekend and see you Monday! Yippee!by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-48183677405284364842008-11-25T18:48:00.000-08:002008-11-25T19:00:38.540-08:00FIRST CORINTHIANS 13--CHRISTMAS VERSION<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another decorator.</span></span></span></span><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> <br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime: <br />but do not show love to my family, I'm just another cook. <br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18px; font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If I work at a soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity; but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18px; font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing in the choir's cantata but do not focus on love, I have missed the point.</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> <br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Love stops the cooking to hug the child. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the spouse.</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />Love is kind, though harried and tired. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />Love does not envy another's home <br />that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Love does not yell at the kids to get out of the way, </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">but is thankful they are there to be in the way. <br /><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Love does not give only to those who are able to give in return; </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">but rejoices in giving to those who cannot.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18px; font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Love bears all things, believes all things, </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">hopes all things, and endures all things.<br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Love never fails. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust, </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">but giving the gift of love will endure.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18px; font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18px; font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">Thank you Missy for sending this to me.</span></span></span></div></div>by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-83368346378111723332008-11-23T10:53:00.000-08:002008-11-25T19:01:13.111-08:00Hello to all of you! I have wanted to post a few things, but now have finally figured out how to blog! It may be a little late for some, but appropriate for others. I do hope that it looks as <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">beautiful</span> as Laurie's always do! <div><br /></div><div>First, are all of you e<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">njoying</span> this preparedness as much as I am? Remember, even if you are not completely finished by the goal of December 1st, you are still soooo much better off than if you had waited! So, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">ENJOY</span> whatever tasks you have completed! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Rejoice!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"><br /></span></div><div>So, here are a few things that have kept me going this season. First, I have been getting good use out of my <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">crock pot. </span> On busy days, I just start that wonderful invention early in the morning, and our family enjoys a home cooked meal on days when I am out shopping. It feels great to come home to a warm meal already finished! </div><div><br /></div><div>Next, it has been helpful keeping a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">wrapping station</span> ready for wrapping. If you haven't done this, find an area where you can keep all your goodies. Some people just make one out of a "back of the door shoe hanging bag". You can put tape, scissors, tags, ribbons and paper all in one. A garment bag will also work if you have one of those instead.</div><div><br /></div><div>Also, we have truly <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">simplified our decorating</span> at home this year. The FlyLady recommends five areas ONLY to decorate. I believe she says to stick with the tree, the mantle, the bannister, the kitchen OR dining room table, and a wreath on the door! Can you believe it??? As far as our home goes, we pretty much stuck with this simplicity. We didn't even put up our main tree! We are going to be out of town for Christmas and I just couldn't see doing all that work and not even being here on Christmas morning! My children were a little disappointed while we were decorating, but I shared with them my goals about focusing on family and the birthday of our Lord, and they never mentioned it again!</div><div><br /></div><div>Lastly, remember to<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);"> keep your receipts</span> in your December 1st notebook. You will be so glad you did. Also, keeping a record of your gift giving this year will really help you next year!</div><div><br /></div><div>Christmas Blessings to all! (And by the way, I am really looking forward to a wonderful Thanksgiving. Moody Radio is presenting a Thanksgiving audio program to be aired at 8am and 4pm. It seems like it will an interpretation of the first Thanksgiving. We will be planning our mealtimes around the 4 pm program, so that we can all sit around and enjoy it as a family.)</div>Nancy S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/17012137595651507121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-51055136876810135532008-11-22T19:02:00.000-08:002008-11-22T19:05:09.237-08:00Dec. 1st ClubI have a goal of finishing my Christmas cards and getting my hardwood floors refinished and moved back in by Dec. 1st. MerrillMerrillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02340983746154736035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-49420659241689308072008-11-20T11:59:00.000-08:002008-11-20T12:04:16.551-08:00When sending Christmas cards this year please consider sending a card to a recovering American soldier via this address:<div><br /></div><div>A Recovering American Soldier</div><div>c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center</div><div>6900 Georgia Avenue NW</div><div>Washington, DC 20307</div><div><br /></div><div>How wonderful to have a chance to thank one of these brave people for his/her sacrifice for our country and liberties. Thanks for considering being a part!</div>by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-49295990937129948882008-11-17T13:09:00.000-08:002008-11-20T12:04:44.168-08:00<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I am sitting here by my fireplace <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">g</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">etting myself geared up for finishing up plans to host Thanksgiving dinner</span> at my house next week and reflecting on the fact that while I am not quite where I would like to be with Christmas goals,<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> I am so much better off than I would be with out all of you</span>! I have stocked up on the things I will need to prepare meals next week, have those menus planned, and best of all, I have accomplished the single most stressful task for our family each holiday season. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> I just pressed the approval button for our Christmas card order</span>. (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">and a choir-like chorus of Hallelujahs immediately rang through the air!) </span><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">But here is the BEST PART!!</span><div>As I sat down to complete my order I decided<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"> to check email first</span> (procrastination) and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">low and behold in my inbox was a discount code</span> for 20% off my Tiny Prints order. We order a lot of cards, and I was ordering stationary for several gifts, so this was significant savings! The code is 20gift and it can be used until the 19th. If you have already done your cards, good for you! You might think about stationary or invitations from tinyprints, they are SUPER cute, if you have need of those things.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">so proud of all the progress </span>I hear some of you are making, especially our brand new December 1sters! Let us know how you are doing, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">it is inspiring for those of us who are a little behind. </span> Let us know why you are doing all of this, how it is worth it. We have lots and lots of visitors to this site, from all over the world. I'll bet other people would like an idea of what this is about, as well. Hope you have a wonderful week! </div></div>by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-29404522785494578862008-11-15T08:57:00.000-08:002008-11-15T09:02:35.667-08:00Chili RecipeI have been making this recipe for many years, and it is great. It makes a huge batch, which is great for leftovers. I have also gotten it started on the stove (browned the onions and meat) and then put it in the Crock Pot on low for 3-4 hours.<br /><br /><br />1 lg onion, diced<br />1 lb lean ground beef<br />2 T chili powder<br />2 t salt<br />1 t black pepper<br />5 t flour<br />Hot water<br />3 cans condensed tomato soup<br />3 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed<br />1 (16 oz) can diced, stewed tomatoes<br /><br />Garnish with: grated cheese, chopped green or white onions, snipped fresh chives, sour cream, Fritos . . .<br />Serve with: corn bread<br /><br />Spray 4 qt pan or Dutch oven. Heat to medium-high. Add onion and meat, breaking up clumps w/ a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 15 mins.<br /><br />Meanwhile, in small bowl, stir together the chili powder, salt, pepper and flour. Stir in just enough hot water to make a smooth paste.<br /><br />Into the meat mixture, stir in the soup, beans and tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Lower heat. Stir in chili powder mixture. Cover and let simmer for 30 mins, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-24046875579302021462008-11-14T11:41:00.000-08:002008-11-14T14:16:48.874-08:00Almost There!First of all, I love the new look! <br /><br />Second, I went to TJ Maxx yesterday and they have a huge selection of Christmas decorations and gifts. I bought gifts for all of our teachers, both at PCA and Wee School, and the Wee school aides...a total of 8! I also picked up some beautiful picture frames for 6-9 dollars apiece which is much cheaper than I have seen anywhere else. <br /><br />I am almost finished with shopping...just the nieces and nephews left! It is going to be so nice to sit back in the evenings and relax with my family and a cup of Polar Express hot chocolate from Sams and not feel the time crunch during the month of December. Thanks, Laurie!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-8846954403512953312008-11-14T09:20:00.000-08:002008-11-14T14:16:54.238-08:00Linen-n-ThingsDid you know that Linen-n-Things are going out of business nationwide? That means two things: Use up any gift cards you have and finish some shopping. They have Ginger Bread Houses and Cookies already made in a box for a fun family activity. You don't have to cook. Just bring them out and decorate. I have two boxes stashed away for a family night memory during the season. As of now they are 20% off. If you know of an item from there you have been waiting to get, this is the time to get it! Happy Shopping early!mjbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08277269084150095422noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-95583190668204932008-11-12T13:52:00.000-08:002008-11-12T16:41:16.808-08:00Tiny PrintsI received a coupon code for cards from TinyPrints.com. If you place an order of $99 or more, you will get $10 off. The code is MSEMAIL2008. It expires 12/19/2008. Happy shopping!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-23724201677671590052008-11-11T13:14:00.000-08:002008-11-12T16:40:59.462-08:00I am looking for cute Christmas PJ's, must be very soft, for my family. Teenage boys pose a challenge. Any ideas?by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-55129767271308962132008-11-10T18:36:00.000-08:002008-11-12T16:42:44.670-08:00More music to add? I have <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">LOVED</span></span> checking out the favorites shared so far, thanks to Tracy's post on the 2nd. So k<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">eep those favorites coming</span>!! By the way, I would<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">love to add more music to play on this blog</span></span>, but I only have access to music that is stored at playlist.com, so our selection is very limited. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">I</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">'ll keep looking</span></span> for anything you suggest! Nighty night! <div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size:18px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">"Because </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">yo</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">ur </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">love is better</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> than life,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">my </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">l</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">i</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">ps will glorify</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> you</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">will praise you</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">as long as I live</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">and </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">in your name</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> I will </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">lift up my hands</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">My </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">soul</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">will be satisfied</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">as with the richest foods</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">w</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">ith </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">singing lips</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> my mouth will praise you</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">"</span></span></span></div>by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-31886080296969269322008-11-09T17:45:00.000-08:002008-11-12T16:41:30.874-08:00It's the little things...<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>This week I<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"> have added </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">a very simple pleasure to my Christmas shopping</span></span>,</span> and grocery shopping as well. I don't know about you guys, but the Newmans are not very good recyclers. We would like to be, we do some things sometimes, but a lot of the time we are doing well just to get the trash out, much less getting it sorted and to the appropriate locations. I am not proud of this fact, just honest. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I do think about those things</span>, though, I would like to do what we can toward caring for the earth. I have seen reusable shopping bags around town - at Kroger - and lots of other places. But I have always resisted the idea, thinking that I would forget to take them to the store, and really just not finding the idea very appealing. :(</div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 136px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbw1dS6RY0fveZSm0tb2v8hve_bLs7qbMIA4T94MtxXPMTQ1AvPlabPkQREXFpkweBWPkoczFH7OBCq0vUF25BEgpKwfkC04BT7l8VpWaB4cqUi300sEH1y4WKRKrDe1ojIuryVoDY7uA/s200/tote.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266878124894790866" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Until I spotted this shopping tote at Barnes and Noble</span> when I was checking out. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">I</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">t was just so .... pretty</span></span>. It is a great size, lovely, and cost $4.95 because I am a Barne and Noble member. I bought three. I took them to Kroger a bit later that afternoon and when I asked the checker to put my groceries in these bags, she gave me a small discount on my groceries. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">The bags are hanging in my hallway looking very pretty and festive</span>, I loved using them at Kroger because 7 or more plastic bags of groceries fit in my three larger stronger bags, and I feel very recycle savy! I could carry my groceries in the house with one trip (the bags are heavier but no big deal:)) You guys may already be on top of this type of thing, but I just wanted you to know! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Have a wonderful Monday</span>!</div><div><br /></div>by Laurie Newmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05851498515380965675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9150086137366350938.post-89128509894072675852008-11-06T07:31:00.001-08:002008-11-12T17:26:44.416-08:00Another fun Christmas book to readEvery year, I sit on the couch with my children and read <em>The Best Christmas Pageant Ever</em>. It is written by Barbara Robinson. We cuddle up together, and I read about a chapter a night. We laugh and remember, in a different way, what the true meaning of Christmas is. We've come to treasure this time, and I even took it with us last year when we went to NH in December. I keep thinking that this is the year that Samuel will tell me he's too old for it, but as a mother, I want to hold on to this little tradition as long as possible.<br /><br />If you've never read it, I encourage you to do so. Here is a little information about what the book is about: "It focuses on the poorly-behaved children of the Herdman family, who discover the true meaning of <a title="Christmas" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas">Christmas</a> through participation in a church play about the birth of <a title="Jesus" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesus">Jesus</a>."Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0