Making Friends

It is hard to come by genuine people in this gossip-filled world. My husband and I have been praying that we find people that are like-minded and have good intentions. We often joked that we only appeal to an older crowd which in many cases is not a bad thing. We have met good people since we’ve been married, but it wasn’t exactly what we were looking for. We longed for continual fellowship and random dates where we can meet and not feel as if we had a time restriction. God answered our prayers and it is amazing that it took 6 years to find people that we trust and love to be around.

I have been burnt by people who seemed to care but only to find out they like to see you fail and will spread anything you tell them in private to everyone. It feels great to know that I can converse without regrets. I am grateful!


Photo courtesy of www.c28.com

Returning to School

After high school, I had in mind to help with my husband’s family plumbing company. College wasn’t on my mind and people disliked me for that. It was my grandmother’s request for me to go to college before she died. In fact throughout my senior year, she made it possible for my high school to visit Grambling State University and many of my classmates visited and attended the university. But, despite my grandmother’s connection with the university, I chose not to attend. I did attend Chicago State University after high school for 3 months and never returned. I wasn’t ready at the time to focus on education.

After years of debate, I decided to go back, but this time for myself! September 2010 I returned to college in an online environment. The convenience of an online learning environment suited my schedule and lifestyle. I am a student of Ashford University, an accredited university and I am happy with my decision. At first I planned to study Accounting and Finance for our business sake, but with the change of direction, I am now pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Administration and Infant and Toddler Care for obvious reasons! LOL…I have always had a dream of owning my own daycare facility and working closely with children. Not only am I enjoying the benefits of quality education, but my husband is also working on completing school in the field of Finance.

Yay for education!! LOL

Cooking Appliances I can't do without!

Kitchen appliances I can’t live without

I am a novice on fine cuisine but I know that basics of creating an awesome, mouthwatering dish. I enjoy cooking and recreating dishes I see on the Food Network channel. I’ve learned the importance of presentation and creativity to ensure my family gets the best of their meals, I use my key appliances to make that happen…

1. My handy dandy Crock Pot. I love the fact that I can prepare dinner hours ahead and allow it to cook low and slow. I use the crock pot for hearty dishes such as pot roasts and meatloaves. This appliance allows the meat to soak up its juices creating a savory palette that it please to all five senses.

2. My rotisserie oven. For that rotisserie styled Cornish hens and young chickens. I infuse my bird with herbs and complimented spices for an awesome splash of flavor and juiciness.

3. George Foreman Grill. For those awesome Panini’s, turkey burgers, and Monte cristo sandwiches for a quick snack.

These three appliances allow me to feed my family healthy and wholesome meals and snacks without the need of processed fast foods.

Photo courtesy of everydayweekender.com

A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned---Ways I save $$$

~Ways to save $$~

With prices going through the roof and a new frugal lifestyle, I have learned the importance of a dollar. I am privileged to know both extremes of having money, but now we are serious about our goals, we’ve decided to buckle now. Here are some ways we save:






Groceries: Buying in bulk when possible. Ray and I found a butcher a few years back in Illinois and bought a ½ cow which lasted 1 ½ years! We had home-cooked meals that consisted of T-bones, sirloins and anything a ½ cow can give out. But anyway, buy items that will work for mealtime…not buying things that will sit in the pantry will save space and money.

Clothing: Now we LOVE LOVE LOVE a great deal. We try not to buy from a physical store if possible. We use EBay, Craigslist, and online stores to get great deals and we also by clothes in bulk, especially for the kids.

Home: I am learning to love my sewing machine. Whenever there is a time I can use it, I would. Ex: pillowcases and repairing torn clothes.

Hair and Body: Being natural has its benefits. Not only is our hair healthy and strong, but I have the ability to create body washes, soaps, moisturizers, shampoos and conditioners that is healthy, fits our hair type and will promote growth. I am also in the process of starting a product line so tune tuned for that as well. I also make hair accessories for the girls and for those with girls, know that buying hair accessories can add up!

Transportation: We have a smaller car and Ray will be driving that to work to save us hundreds of dollars in fuel by not driving our SUV.

In what ways do you save money? Share if you’d like!

Getting my body back!

Before I became a mother, I wore a size 0. I liked my figure for the most part because I had a dream to become a model, but because I am only 5’5, that dream didn’t measure up…literally. Now after FOUR babies, I only dream to be that size again. I’m now a size 4 and I am now comfortable with this size, but I know a size 5 can look so much better. My husband enjoys these new curves, but I know the feel better about this new body, I must work hard to shape it up. Last year, my husband brought home a PS3 Move with a Zumba workout “game”. He heard me mention it before, and I was quite surprised that he actually got it. After I had my son, I was the biggest I’ve ever been. I wore mostly 7’s. I was horrified! Now don’t get me wrong, some women can make a 7 look fabulous, but my height wasn’t use to the extra. Nursing my children helped shed pounds, but I wasn’t eating healthy all of the time. I began a workout schedule and was losing inches, but then my workouts came to an end once I found out I was pregnant AGAIN. So nearly a year later after I decided to shape up, I’m back at it again. I am now working out 3 times a week 30-40 minutes each of those three days. Since I began this new schedule, I’ve cut back on the fried and processed foods and sugared beverages to baked and sautéed meals, fruit juices and plenty of water. Not only am I enjoying the workout, but I feel a difference and see the outcome of this Zumba workout and healthy eating.

If you are considering a workout regimen but hate being bored, try Zumba!



Check out the video to see how it works…this video is played with the Kinect, but with the Move, you use the controller and Zumba belt to monitor movement and hip action.

His Perspective

This is the current SD version. The 1080p HD version will be available tomorrow. Just a hint, it is 2gb!

Song of the Day!

Casting Crowns "Until the Whole World Hears" from album Until the Whole World Hears

They're Watching YOU!

If I had a nickel for each time I heard this... “I don’t know where my child get this from.” I’ll be RICH! How can one expect their child to act a certain way if you running around like them? Honestly, who’s the adult? In my opinion, having a child does change everything. Not only are you accountable for the things you do, but now you’re responsible for THEIRS. If we see our children doing things that is below the standard of our home, we correct it on the spot. We’ve had to “unteach” things our children came home with. We are careful who we allow around our children. It is our responsibility that our children are not being negatively influenced by outsiders. The bible gives us an example of parental accountability. Read 1^st  Samuel Chapters 2-4. This verse pretty much sums it up:

  

1^st Samuel 3:13 “For I have told him that  I  will judge  his house  for ever  for the iniquity  which  he knoweth; because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not.”

Another instance is in our intermediate family, saying the “S” word is forbidden. So, if we accidently slip up and say “Shut up or stupid” our children would respond by saying, “that’s a bad word, we can’t say that.”  Children can keep their parents in check too. But we as parents has to instill valuable insights and line up with what we tell them. Whether you want to admit it or not… Your child mimics your behavior! They do as you do!

So now, if your talk isn’t lining up with what you do, then maybe your child isn’t the one with the issue! Huh?

Song of the Day!

Ashmont Hill "Show My Love" from the album Your Masterpiece

Father, I give you everything I am!!

What's Cooking?!

Coming into marriage, I was familiar with cooking but I was in no way good at it. I prepared simple dishes that appeared as if I knew what I was doing. My first dinner I prepared for my husband was steak, potatoes (flaked and in the box) and California blend vegetables. That was a good start and the compliments came, then I gained enough confidence to try test my skills with fried chicken and rice. Mission FAILED!! Chicken was still raw inside and the rice was undercooked. I was utterly disappointed and I receive harsh criticism. But, you know what, I didn’t give up nor did my husband give up. Actually he motivated me to become a better cook by purchasing new cookware.

After receiving cookware and utensils, I became interested in researching simple recipes that will WOW those being served. Casseroles have a good reputation of being a full meal in one dish. If you like it, you may try it for yourself! This recipe is courtesy of allrecipes.com



Broccoli Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
• 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - boiled and cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 heads fresh broccoli , boiled and cut into pieces
• 3 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 8 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Place chicken and broccoli in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish. In a medium saucepan combine cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, curry powder and lemon juice. Bring all to a boil over low heat, stirring constantly. Pour soup mixture over chicken/broccoli mixture and top with shredded cheese.
3. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 20 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Bon appetite!

Praying for my husband (Part Two)

My husband and I celebrated our 6th year wedding anniversary, September 10. I am so blessed to see and enjoy the day with him. Our lives have been quite hectic and unexpected these past months and I know that with him being in a leadership position caring for a family of 6 now. I have learned the importance of lifting my husband in prayer. He has to deal with so many temptations and stresses that I can only imagine putting up with.

When I took his name, I took on the responsible of being his help meet (Genesis 2:18). With him being in the construction field at the time, he was in the middle of back-biting and inconsiderate contractors and businessmen. His refuge from all the drama was home. I realized that I set the tone to the house and that our home was definitely a safe haven for us all. I thank God for His Word, because that was all I had for inspiration, encouragement, and example. So, I found the scripture Proverbs 14:1 “Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.” I was in complete shock when I read this scripture because not only do I set the atmosphere of our home, but I have the ability to tear it down. It is a harsh reality and it is easy to ruin a good thing. So, with care, I watched what came out of my mouth and always encouraged my husband even if I felt as if he was misused and harmed. My prayer was for him to be secure in the work that he does and to be humble when the enemy tries his patience. I encourage him not to give up and that his work will never be in vain. I may feel otherwise, but with the words I speak to him, I encourage myself with it. In the scriptures, there are examples of women who brought their house down with their influences.

Example: Eve- Genesis 3:6 “ And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to thee eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.”
I made a vow to God, to my husband, and to myself that I will continue to encourage and positively influence my husband to make sound decisions and to work diligently even if those around him are doing otherwise. Since we got out of the construction field in one piece, he faces new challenges, I remain the same encouragement even though it may look rough and unbearable, we can depend on God and the reassurance His word brings us to make it through.

I’ve seen what affects wives have on their husbands. It is an awful thing to see how a woman can literally tear her family apart by her actions. If you’re married or have the dream of being married, please be careful with your words and be a help to your husbands and not a hindrance!

Song of the Day!

Mali Music's Glory to the Lamb

Let's get back to worship!!

Praying for my husband (Part One)

Like many little girls, I’ve dreamed of a fairytale wedding ceremony; big princess dress with a 20 foot train and a prince waiting for me at the altar. But unlike many girls, I prayed that my husband will love me unconditionally and will be Christ-like. I have seen many marriages crumble before my very eyes. I saw what I looked like to have an unhappy marriage and I learned at a young age what not to do. Before I truly accepted Jesus into my life, I knew that to have a successful marriage Christ must be a part of it to make it work. By understanding this truth, I had to learn on my own.

I began praying for a husband at the age of 16. My parents had remarried and I saw the work they put out to make it work the second time around. I wanted to get it right the first time and make it last. I remember telling them I will marry my man of God after high school, my dad just about knocked my head off my body! LOL…hey he’s my dad and I expected that from him! But, I began to study the word of God concerning marriage and the first scripture I came across was Proverbs 18:21-22 “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord.” The first time I read this, I didn’t quite understand why these two scriptures sat next to each, then I remembered what I have been praying for and the words I was speaking into my existence. Because I spoke marriage into my life, it will come to pass and that my husband will find me. I saw it like this: I’m at one side of a field praying for my husband and he’s on the other side being directed by God to find me and he recognized me by the prayer I prayed. Well, my husband found me when we were only 17 years old and we married a year after high school.

Stayed tuned for Part Two of “Praying for my husband”

Song of the Day!

Just a Heartbeat by Jimmy Needham from the album "Nightlights"

God can use you..make yourself available to him! Enjoy your day!

Song of the Day!

Britt Nicole's "Walk on the Water" from the album "The Lost Get Found"

Enjoy!

Staying Home

In my opinion, you have to be very creative to make staying at home a fun thing. During the first few months of marriage, I was home by myself. I had a way to get around if need be, but I enjoyed staying at home! I became interested in sewing and designing. As a result of all the studying and researching, I became quite good at it and had a few hobbies to occupy myself. I Googled everything and my knowledge was limitless so being at home was AWESOME!

Now having little ones, that creative energy has to multiply by 4! Television was not the answer nor did it come across my mind, but flashcards, songs and crayons was the star of “Mommy Daycare”. We did not have the television to teach or entertain our children. We created activities and printed worksheets to simulate their curious minds. My oldest recited the alphabet at 10 months and that’s way before she began to actually talk! I felt accomplished and proud that I had the ability to teach. Now with a full house, they all learn from each other so all I have to do is reinforce it! I love it!

Staying home was one of the best decisions I’ve made!

Song of the Day!

I want to see You by Ashmont Hill

I absolutely love this song! I woke up this morning with this song in my spirit!

Enjoy!

Welcome

Welcome everyone!

I am Antoinette and I am so excited about this new chapter of my life. I was a bit reluctant of sharing my life, but within the past few months, I have dealt with many things and my testimony just might bless someone through this blog.

I am a Chicago- native and have been all my life until just recently when my family decided and with the push of God to transition to Houston, Texas without looking back. We felt a sense of relief and is happy with what God has in store for this family. I won’t go into detail now, but expect to read a lot about our Journey to Texas!

This blog will consist of the following:

*Regular readings about my life: I have experienced a lot so far in my young 25 years. I believe the wisdom God has given me will encourage and inspire my readers.

*A section dedicated to explore a husband’s view on life, love, and other random topics you the reader would want to know. My husband will have a voice and will give you detailed information.

*Raising children in a Christian home and instilling values in their young lives.

*And on a few occasions, I will share my natural journey concerning hair and healthy living. *Also things that inspires me: art, music, and photography.

I enjoy reading things that inspires and convicts me. I always benefit things that are sincere and life changing, so I hope you feel the same when you read this blog.

So, see you soon!

Antoinette