Sunday, December 27, 2009

Where My Heart Has Been…through songs

Mandisa, Only the World! 

Mandisa, True Beauty

Mary Mary....Shackles!

More Beautiful You,  Johnny Diaz

Casting Crowns, Slow Fade (I had never seen this video before; broke my heart.  Regardless what the video speaks of, it’s all about compromise.  When we compromise with what the Bible speaks about, when we shuffle something under the rug thinking, “oh noone will know, it’s just this one time…” that’s when the devil steps in and the bondage begins.  It’s a slow fade…. one day you are on fire for Jesus, then one day, you turn around and wonder how you got to where you are now…. It’s a slow fade….)

Casting Crowns, East to West (With this song, I am free.  My friend Eddie Echarri would have loved this song.  He might have.  I can’t remember if it was out when he was still with us.  Eddie believed and taught the freedom we can have only through Christ.  I miss you Eddie.)

Song Of The Year

I currently have “Breathe” as my song of the year on my blog.  The song reflects on desperation for the Lord.  That’s the point I was at this time last year as I was praying “God, make me desperate for you.”  I can  honestly say in our times of trials, we seek Him more, pray more, and read His word more.  Oh I wish I could be to the point where I didn’t have to be put through trials to always seek Him first.  I guess I will continue to be put through that test until I pass it.

Many people pray and seek for a verse of the year to to reflect on.  While I love scripture, music holds a very special place in my heart with worship, prayer, ministering and healing.  I’ve been praying for a song to focus on throughout the coming year.  He seems to be leading me in a direction that is tough for me.  I’ll continue praying over the next few days for confirmation on the song.

I hope you were truly blessed through the Christmas season and that it will continue through the new year.

Blessings to you and your family.

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Christmas is not ABOUT Jesus, but IS Jesus!

The title of this blog post is a quote from my Pastor, Ted Traylor. This mornings sermon was right on; every aspect of it, yet those words continue ringing through my mind and right to my heart.

Please set aside some time to listen to this mornings sermon, entitled "The Virgin Birth of Jesus," from scripture passages Matthew 1: 18 - 25. It's unlike any Christmas sermon I have ever heard preached. I guarantee it will put things in perspective.

http://www.oliveonline.org/Audio/

www.olivebaptist.org

www.tedtraylor.com

Thursday, December 17, 2009

CHRISTmas VS "X-Mas"

I learned something new just a few minutes ago.

Please take a minute to learn something new too....

http://karenehman.com/home/2009/12/17/crossing-out-christ-and-a-last-minute-shopping-tip/

For all the times I have ranted and raved over somebody writing "x-mas," I am sorry.

With that said, I still prefer seeing "Christ" in my "Chrstmas."

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

It’s a sad day in the Paden’s household

I love animals.  My Kayla has that same love and passion for animals.  That’s one of the many things I love about her. 

We had to take one of our hamsters to the vet yesterday.  I know, I know…. but it was evident that something was wrong to the point of being scared. 

Hamsters pack their little cheeks so full it’s crazy!  One of the little rascals put a 2” piece of cedar in its mouth.  Unfortunately, like the rest of the Paden household children, our Waffles has put something in there and swallowed it.  Her little tummy was knotted yesterday, prompting the visit to the vet.  The vet, who is more concerned for the animal than the bill, gave us some food to feed her by a dropper.  She said we have a three day period to know if she is going to make it or not.

Even with all our efforts and love… yes, even for a hamster, it seems Waffles is dying.  She can’t even walk right now and is refusing all liquids.

It’s amazing how attached we become to things. 

Sunday, December 13, 2009

A Mother’s Heart

Tonight, this mom’s heart is heavy. My son has a new tic. I thought it was his Tenex, but even after not giving it to him tonight, he started breathing heavy. I sat and watched my little man, deep breath in, deep breath out, clear throat, push glasses back. That’s the routine. His teacher commented on the breathing, I thought nothing of it, until Kayla mentioned it, then I saw, heard it.

My heart is broken. I have such a special little boy; I’m afraid for him though. I’m afraid I’ve put medication in his body that is making him this way. I’m afraid it is my fault that this is happening. I’m afraid for him, and what his life is going to be like.

While I was watching Christopher tonight, the thought crossed my mind about the love that I have for him. I thought, “If my heart hurts this much over my little boy, how much did God the Father’s heart hurt over seeing His son being beaten to death.” I can not fathom the pain He must have felt.

As we celebrate Christmas, may we remember the reason we celebrate. He came, in order to die, so that we may live with Him in eternity. Because of that, I have hope.

2010 Census Cautions from the Better Business Bureau

Please forward/copy and share this!

WARNING: 2010 Census Cautions from the Better Business Bureau
Be Cautious About Giving Info to Census Workers

by Susan Johns

With the U.S. Census process beginning, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises people

to be cooperative, but cautious, so as not to become a victim of fraud or identity theft.

The first phase of the 2010 U.S. Census is under way as workers
have begun verifying the addresses of households across the country.
Eventually, more than 140,000 U.S. Census workers will count every person
in the United States and will gather information about every person living
at each address including name, age, gender, race, and other relevant data.

The big question is - how do you tell the difference between a U.S.
Census worker and a con artist? BBB offers the following advice:

**If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, they will have a badge, a
handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag, and a confidentiality notice. Ask
to see their identification and their badge before answering their questions.
However, you should never invite anyone you don't know into your home.

**Census workers are currently only knocking on doors to verify address information.

Do not give your Social Security number, credit card or banking information to anyone, even
if they claim they need it for the U.S. Census.

REMEMBER, NO MATTER WHAT THEY ASK, YOU REALLY ONLY NEED TO TELL
THEM HOW MANY PEOPLE LIVE AT YOUR ADDRESS.

While the Census Bureau might ask for basic financial information, such as a salary range,

YOU DON'T HAVE TO ANSWER ANYTHING AT ALL ABOUT YOUR FINANCIAL
SITUATION.

The Census Bureau will not ask for Social Security, bank account, or credit card numbers,
nor will employees solicit donations. Any one asking for that information is NOT with the Census Bureau.


AND REMEMBER, THE CENSUS BUREAU HAS DECIDED NOT TO WORK WITH ACORN
ON GATHERING THIS INFORMATION.

No Acorn worker should approach you saying he/she is with the Census Bureau.
Eventually, Census workers may contact you by telephone, mail, or in person at home.

However, the Census Bureau will not contact you by Email, so be on the lookout for Email scams impersonating the Census.

Never click on a link or open any attachments in an Email that are supposedly from
the U.S. Census Bureau.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Oh Christmas Tree.....

This morning I was reading "Turning Points" by David Jeremiah. I learned something that I had often wondered.....

"What is the purpose of a Christmas tree and what's the big deal about putting it up?" Maybe you are reading this post and are thinking, "how can she NOT know...duh!" Well, I didn't. So, for those of you who don't know, and have never sought to find out the purpose.... here goes.

The Christmas Tree is an evergreen. Evergreens, unlike deciduous trees, do not lose their leaves. They never die. So, the Christmas Tree represents our eternal life with Jesus Christ! I never knew that!

I also never knew the symbolic purpose of a Holly Tree! My husband can't stand the things, I have never really had an opinion about them, but I do now! Do you know those little red berries on the Holly Tree represent the blood of Christ?! Do you know the prickly green leaves represent the Crown of Thorns? I never even knew Holly Trees/bushes had any kind of Christmas meaning behind them at all.

So, this year, and every year after, we have something new to discuss when putting up our Christmas Tree!!

Thank you, Lord, that no matter how old, or young, you continue to teach me/us.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

The Big Deal

I had to let you know of our BIG SAVE bundles in campaign 26! Usually we have one, but not this campaign! AVON knows the struggles we are all having with the economy and how tight our budgets are.

The following are GREAT gift ideas that are very practical and will be easy of the pocket!




Mesmerize for Men








Moisture Therapy Intensive




Sweet Honesty


Remember, I need your orders THURSDAY!!!! When I get up Friday morning, I am turning in the orders. Please don't miss this important deadline.

Blessings to each of you,

Stacey L. Paden

AVON Independent Sales Rep.
Pensacola, FL
850-292-3010
www.youravon.com/spaden
thepadens@cox.net


Are you interested in earning an extra income to help make ends meet?
I'd love to share my AVON experience with you!
I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

CHRISTMAS Orders DUE THURSDAY!!

Yeap, that's right folks. I goofed. Campaign 26, the final campaign before Christmas, it DUE THIS THURSDAY!

Here's a run down on what is on sale.... lots of GREAT GIFTS for UNDER $5.00!!

Gifts UNDER $10.00!

Gifts UNDER $20!!

Looking for something specific? Click HERE to shop by category!

Need Christmas Accessories? We've got that covered also!

Christmas Necklaces, Watches, Slippers (UNDER $10!)

Christmas Earrings (UNDER $3.00!)


Still looking for gift ideas??

Jewelry Gift Sets starting as LOW as $9.99!

Sterling Silver Jewelry starting at $14.99!

Handbags!! Including the BUTLER BAG ON SALE FOR $34.99!!! Lowest price EVER!

I don't know a lady that doesn't LOVE SHOES!!

Assorted Jewelry Sales!

Need a makeover? Do it online, FREE by clicking here!

Children's Gift Ideas

Bathy and Body

Fragrance

ANEW Products

Men's Gift Ideas

I know this is a LOT of information. We just have soo many GREAT sales that I can't help but share them all!

It has been an HONOR and PLEASURE serving you these past few months.

I pray you have a blessed Christmas this year! If you have a family need, I'm here; not as "Your AVON lady," but as your friend.

God Bless,

Stacey Paden
Your AVON Independent Sales Rep.
Pensacola, FL
850-292-3010
www.youravon.com/spaden
thepadens@cox.net

Are you interested in earning an extra income to help make ends meet?
I'd love to share my AVON experience with you!
I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Labor And Wages

Matthew 20:1-16

Have you read this scripture before?  You might have, but it might not be that familiar to you.  It was familiar to me.  My thoughts were, “too bad, so sad.”  This particular scripture never applied to my life, until recently.  Actually, it has applied for a little over a year now, I just didn’t realize it, or maybe the Lord waited until the last day or so to reveal it to me.  I have had to remind myself of this scripture over and over in order to keep me from getting angry.  Have you figured out what the scripture says?  Well just in case you haven’t, let me type it up for you,

The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard
1"For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire men to work in his vineyard. 2He agreed to pay them a denarius for the day and sent them into his vineyard.

3"About the third hour he went out and saw others standing in the marketplace doing nothing. 4He told them, 'You also go and work in my vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.' 5So they went.

   "He went out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour and did the same thing. 6About the eleventh hour he went out and found still others standing around. He asked them, 'Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?'

7" 'Because no one has hired us,' they answered.
      "He said to them, 'You also go and work in my vineyard.'

8"When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, 'Call the workers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last ones hired and going on to the first.'

9"The workers who were hired about the eleventh hour came and each received a denarius. 10So when those came who were hired first, they expected to receive more. But each one of them also received a denarius. 11When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner. 12'These men who were hired last worked only one hour,' they said, 'and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the work and the heat of the day.'

13"But he answered one of them, 'Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn't you agree to work for a denarius? 14Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. 15Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?'

16"So the last will be first, and the first will be last."

 

How this has applied to me is, I might not like what is happening, but I agreed to what I agreed with, and I have to do what I agreed with and IF I do, I know the Lord will honor it.  It doesn’t matter if it is fair or not.  Bottom line.

A Story Of Love and Hope

I know every marriage struggles.  I have struggled with too great of expectations and disappointment; yet my love for Jesus, has helped me to love when I didn’t want to.

When I read this blog post by,

Lysa Terkeurst of Proverbs 31 Ministry,

emotions filled my heart as I thought of my Mammow and my Pappow.  My hear hurts so bad for my Mammow that I just want to love her even more. 

This past February my grandparents celebrated 63 years of marriage.  I admire them and love them, but most of all I have watched them….  I am trying to find the article that was written about Mammow and Pappow, if I can’t find it, I’ll get it scanned in so I can share it with you.  I know you will be touched as I was.

Love the one you have been given and cherish every moment.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

November Christmas Give-A-Way Winner!

I’m slacking, sorry.  I was supposed to announce the winner to the give-a-way yesterday after twelve… better late than never, though, right?!

The winner for November's Give-A-Way is……

ANGELA KARALEKAS!!!  Woohoo!! 

Angela, I’ll be shooting you an email to find out where I can deliver your winnings to you.

Congratulations!

Not sure if I will be doing any more give-a-way’s before Christmas; however, if you follow the Proverbs 31 Ministry, Karen Ehman is hosting a 12 days of Christmas Give-A-way!  She is on day two (Tuesday, December 1) today.  You will be blessed getting to know each of the ladies that are affiliated with this ministry.

Something I’ve been thinking about, praying about, and sharing with my younger children is Jesus.  I try every day to tell them that one day they will have to make a choice to have a relationship with Him.  Christopher seems to really know all the answers… he knows we celebrate Christmas in honor of Christ’s birthday, he knows we celebrate Easter because Jesus was “killed” and came back to life and he knows that Jesus died for our sins.  I wish I had that “knowledge” at five years of age!  Kaitlyn, she keeps telling us, “I don’t want to die in order to meet Jesus.”  She’s just turned 4 the beginning of November.  It’s obvious there are still many questions that will asked; however, today, she threw me for a loop.  She told me, “Mommy, I want to cut off this toe (pointing to one of her toes) so I can die and meet Jesus.”  At first I was horrified, but then I thought, while I know she is thinking of a physical death, we really do have to die to meet Jesus.  We have to die to self.  I am continuing to pray for wisdom with raising my children and sharing Christ with them.  It is so important for us, me and Chris, to be real before our kids.  Oh I pray I don’t let them down.

More another day.  It’s almost 8:00 and I am ready for bed.  Haven’t been sleeping well lately.

Night.

Monday, November 30, 2009

Christmas Shopping!

Campaign 25 orders are due today!

Ladies, check out the following links to shop for the men in your life!

Men, check out the following links to shop for the women in your life!

If you don't make the deadline of 9 A.M. Tuesday, I can back order on the next campaign.

DON'T miss out on Patrick Dempsey 2 this campaign, being introduced at $30!  Ladies, the scent is fabulous!

Also, don't forget the Reese Witherspoon, "In Bloom" fragrance!  For $39 you can purchase a gift set that includes a perfume, body lotion, shower gel and gift bag!  That is a $64 savings!

If the men in your life are as hard to shop for as the one in my life, please let me help!

Check out this link to see AVON's Men's Essentials Set!  For $24.99 you receive an expanding travel case, nose hair trimmer, mustache/sideburn trimmer, nail clippers, razor, 3 disposable razor heads and easel-back mirror! 

Check out our selection of men's watches.

Gifts and Gadgets

Men's Apparel

Fragrance

Now, the ladies.... These are some GREAT gift ideas for mom's, sister's, daughter's, granddaughter's, and for you men, your wives! 

You can't beat these prices, with personal FREE deliver!  All you have to do is email me or shop online at www.youravon.com/spaden!  How simple is that?!

JEWELRY!

Clothing and accessories

Handbags!

SHOES!

SALES!!!!

Fragrance!

Skincare

Bath and Body!

For the young children in your life.....

Children's FUN!

AND

YEAR END SAVINGS!!!

I WOULD LOVE to help you shop for your friends, family, boss, co-worker, spouse and children.  This is the best part of my job, finding what works for each person's lifestyle, and budget! 

I am truly blessed!

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Happy Thanksgiving And A Few Recipes

Well, tomorrow is Thanksgiving.  It seems like it was just summer.  I’m not complaining though, for one, the Christmas season is my favorite time of the year, and two, we’ve had a pretty c-r-a-p-p-y year.  I’ll be glad to see this one behind us; BUT, tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and with that, I am thankful for the Lord seeing us through thus far!

If you have been reading my blog for any time, you know the struggle I have with my weight.  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve said I was “starting over.” 

I picked a pretty bad time of the year to try, yet again, to “start over” on my weight loss.  While I am usually pretty open about my life, I am just too ashamed to admit just how much I weigh now.  Two weeks ago when I weighed in at Weight Watchers, I weighed more than I have ever.  The week before last I was pleasantly surprised with a 6 1/2 pound weight loss in five days.  This week, we had a birthday party with scrumptious cake from The Cake Shop and ice cream too; how rude it would have been for me to NOT eat… yeah, right!  Not to mention pizza for lunch… and yes, I had too much.  So I expected to actually gain weight this week.  Yet again, I was pleasantly surprised with a 4 pound weight loss.  If I don’t gain any of that back this week it will be a miracle!  I’ve started my Thanksgiving feast early by ordering pizza from Pizza Hut…. does Veggie Lover count for anything, on thin and crispy crust?!  Oh well. 

In order for me to not fall completely on my face, I decided to prepare some Weight Watcher’s desserts tomorrow.  Just thought I’d share some of the recipes.  I sure would love to know if any of you know of extra ways/recipes to cut back on “points.” 

Pineapple Cake

1 Angel Food Cake Mix

1 – 20oz can crushed pineapple

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Mix cake mix and crushed pineapple (including juice) together.  Pour into an UNGREASED 9 x 13 pan.  Bake 35 to 40 minutes.  Serves 12 (large pieces)  2 Pts a serving.

 

Pumpkin Pie

1 – 14oz can pumpkin

2 egg whites

1/2 cup Splenda

1/2 cup reduced fat Bisquick

1 tsp reduced calorie margarine

1 – 14oz can evaporated skim milk

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp allspice

1/4 tsp ground cloves

1/4 tsp ginger

Blend all ingredients together.  Pour into pie plate and bake 40 minutes at 350 degrees.  (No, there is no crust on this one!)  Serving size:  1/8 pie; Points:  1.25; Whole pie:  10 points!

Dreamsicle Delight

8 oz fat free cream cheese

12 oz fat free whip cream

1 – 3 oz pkg sugar free orange jello

1 dash vanilla

14 oz can mandarin oranges, drained

crushed graham cracker crumbs

Blend cream cheese until all lumps are out; slowly add the whip cream and whip for several minutes.  Once lumps are out and creamy, add a dash of vanilla and then the orange jello powder.  Once the cream cheese, whip cream and jello are mixed well, gently fold in mandarin oranges.  (The recipe calls for a small can of mandarin oranges and a small can of tidbit pineapple; however, I prefer the mandarin oranges.  In fact, It’s fabulous without any fruit added at all!) 

Also, the recipe calls for a graham cracker crust.  In order to trim points, I use crushed graham cracker crumbs and sprinkle lightly over the top.  I do not use the graham crackers every time.  Since I have altered this recipe, I do not know the point value.  Sorry.

So, there it is, now, I have to get these done so I won’t have to do them in the morning.

Ya’ll have a FABULOUS Thanksgiving!  I hope and pray you will be truly blessed and thankful for the many blessings we have.

Chow.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Another Give-A-Way

Found this link on a friend's facebook page. If you have a child of special needs, sensory disorders, etc, then you will want to enter this give-a-way! It is a TAGLESS, SEEMLESS t-shirt! All you have to do is click the link below, leave a comment and you are entered to win!
I've already done it!
Good luck!


http://yourtherapysource.blogspot.com/2009/11/holiday-soft-tee-giveaway.html#comment-form

Monday, November 23, 2009

November Count Down To Christmas Give-A-Way

Well, Christmas is just over 30 days away. Seems hard to believe. I hope and pray that you will take the next four weeks to spend time daily reflecting the reason we celebrate Christmas.

I'm not sure I will have another give-a-way before Christmas, BUT I do have one lined up for the New Year and Valentine's Day.This month is a hodge podge of stuff. To enter, simply leave a comment in the "comment section." Instead of leaving just your name and email, how about sharing your favorite Christmas memory or a tradition you or your family have. Make sure you do leave an email address for me to contact you back.


2 Bath Time Body Paints for kids/Coconut Custard





1 Moisture Therapy Intensive lotion/purse size


1 Black Cherry & Nutmeg Moisturizing Shower Gel


1 Sweet Sugar Cookie Bubble Bath/24 oz size




1 Pink Paisley Cosmetic Bag
So, I hope you will enter to win. The kids or grandkids, nieces or nephews are sure to love the body paint and make GREAT stocking stuffers!
I'll announce the winners Monday, November 30th.
Good luck!

Friday, November 20, 2009

Entertaining Angels

You know that scripture in Hebrews, the one that talks about the prisoners and entertaining angels…yes, that’s the one, Hebrews 13:1 – 3.  Eddie Echarri quoted that scripture a lot.  In case you aren’t familiar with it, here’s how it goes.

Hebrews 13: 1 – 3 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)

Let brotherly love continue.  Don’t neglect to show hospitality, for by doing this some have welcomed (entertained) angels as guests without knowing it.  Remember the prisoners, as though you were in prison with them, and the mistreated, as though you yourselves were suffering bodily.”

Eddie used to stop for everyone.  People joked that as mean as Eddie was, he was one of the most merciful people I have ever known.  Eddie taught me a lot.

I’ve thought of this scripture all day today.  I often pray and ask the Lord to use me, but rarely slow down enough, or pay attention to what the Lord wants to show me.  Today, it took making a U-turn to get to where “I” was trying to get before I realized what was really going on.  I’m not saying I entertained an angel today, but I did get to touch somebody’s life today.

Kayla, Kaitlyn and I were on our way taking some AVON books to a customer.  I had intended on entering the back gate at Governor’s Gate, but thanks to some construction, that gate was locked.  On the way to Governor’s gate, I noticed a senior adult walking in the middle of the road, with a walker, carrying some bags.  I immediately thought, “that doesn’t look right….”  Me, being in the hurry I was, just drove by.  I know, I know….  Because I had to turn around in order to enter the apartment complex from the main entrance, we passed the senior adult again.  He was attempting to cross 4 lanes of moving traffic and 2 turning lanes.  That’s when I knew something was really wrong. 

I watched hundreds of people driving by this helpless old man, who was lost and had no idea how to get back to his home.  He remembered his phone number, he said his wife will answer.  She did just that.

In the mean time, another older gentleman pulled over, helped him to our car and loaded the walker in the back with Kayla and Kaitlyn. 

I don’t share this to boast, but to just be so thankful that I got to be used today to touch some one’s life.  So many times I let opportunities pass me by.  I’m thankful, today, that didn’t happen.

I don’t know that old man’s story, all I know is our local bus system dropped him off and told him to “Go that way….” 

My grandfather has Alzheimer’s.  I hope if he ever gets lost, someone will help him find his way home.

“Thank you, Lord, for letting me touch someone’s life today.  Forgive me for passing by so many opportunities.  In Jesus name, Amen.”

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Thanksgiving Count Down

Thanksgiving is one week away.... one of my favorite scriptures is found in Luke 7:36 - 50.  Verse 47 says, "Therefore I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; that's why she loved much.  BUT, the one who is forgiven little, loves little."  I, and I, know exactly and how much I've been forgiven... this is true for each of us.  We all have something to be thankful for.  For me... I'm thankful for forgiveness, grace, mercy, and love. 

"Thank you Lord for new starts.  I thank you for being constant.  Lord, right now I pray for the one hurting.  I pray for the one who seems to think they have nothing to be thankful for.  Lord, I pray for the one who has no home, I pray for the one that has a home, but no water or electricity, or has holes in the floor, or not enough clothing to keep warm.  Lord I pray that you will meet their needs today.  I pray you will reveal yourself to them in a way that they would stand in awe of you.  I pray for the hurting Lord, the ones who have lost loved ones and don’t understand why, I pray for the ones that have family members dying, I pray for the orphans…. Oh God I pray for the pre-teens and teenagers who think no one wants them because of their age.  Oh God, show me what I can do, what my family can to do love on them.  I pray for my own teenager.  I pray God  you will give me wisdom and knowledge and help me to raise and teach her.  God I pray you will hold my tongue before I open my mouth.  I thank you for loving me.  Thank you for sending ones in my life just over 11 years ago to show me Your way.  I love you Jesus.  Amen."

Friday, November 13, 2009

Life Living

My Pappow is at the end of his life.  He was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s 10 or 12 years ago. 

I realize that life is full of many obstacles; but I also realize that life is full of moments, of joys, of memories.

My dad picked Kayla and me up Saturday and took us to Jackson to give us the opportunity to see Pappow, basically before he passed away.  I had yearned for this opportunity, dad made it possible.  For that I am thankful.

Our visit with Pappow was tough.

Our original plans for our return trip home was to drop Mammow off at the hospital this morning, then dad was going to take me to put flowers out at my Granny and Pappow’s grave.  I hadn’t been able to get there in three years; this is something that is very near and dear to my heart.  But, this morning, when I woke up, I had this overwhelming sense that I needed to spend time with the living, and not with what has already passed. 

This morning, I had the joy, the privilege, and honor of cleaning my Pappow’s mouth, cleaning his eyes, giving him a drink and moisturizing his badly chapped arms. While I could never repay my grandfather for all he has done for me, and while he has no clue what little effort was done this morning to make him more comfortable, it was just very humbling. 

Since I found out I would be going to Jackson, I had been praying for this visit.  When I lived in a children’s home during my high school years, I was exposed to Alzheimer’s Disease.  One of the homes on our campus was for Alzheimer’s patients.  I knew what to expect, but I wasn’t sure how my heart would hold up. 

As I have stated before, I am a visual learner.  While typing this I was reminded of Jesus washing feet.  Jesus didn’t wash feet to be glorified.  Hhhhmmm, I wonder if the nurses and nurses aids are doing what they are doing to be glorified.  I would say definitely not.  I have never thought of what nurses have to encounter during a given day, how many bum’s (by that I mean back-side) they have to clean, vomit they clean up, sheets they have to dry and soiled linens they come in contact.  I have a new appreciation for the people that are caring, not only for my Pappow, but for anybody that is not able to care for themselves.  If you are a nurse, and you are reading this, I thank you for your time, for your dedication, for all you endure during a given shift.  Bless You.

Another thing I got to thinking about is how plainly I knew the Lord was telling me to “spend time with the living.”  What does that mean?  For me, as Timon and Pumbah would put it, “Put your past behind you.”  I caught myself just this afternoon fretting over the past all the “wrongs I did towards my Mammow and Pappow.”  As much as I wish I could make it up to them, I know I can’t.  The fact is, I can’t change anything about it, nor would I want to. 

There is a scripture, I think in Luke 7, that says, “She loves much as she was forgiven much.”  While I know this scripture is referring to Christ’s love, grace, mercy and forgiving of sins (which were many), it spoke to my heart today about my grandparents.  I have hurt them much, they have forgiven much, I love them much. 

While just thinking about the passing of my Pappow brings me much pain, I know the special place I had in his heart, I know he loved me much.  I will cherish deeply the precious, precious smiles we were granted on our short visit.  My heart years to spend each day with him, to clean him, to help relieve my Mammow so she can rest.  While I know my immediate family is my first priority, and I know my son needs me now more than ever with EEG’s and MRI’s, I am feeling torn between the two.

I don’t know if this makes any since at all.  I’ve kind of rambled, trying to not let the emotions take control of the keyboard, so to speak, but just needed to shed a few tears, be thankful, and love.

We celebrated my Kaitlyn’s birthday Friday (she turned 4 Saturday).  I find myself treasuring my moments more, maybe that’s an age thing, maybe it’s a maturing thing, maybe I’m just learning about life living….

“Father in life’s moments, please help me to seize, capture every moment, to use my time wisely, to treasure the tiny moments.  Lord I pray for my Mammow.  I pray for the ability to sleep, to rest.  I pray that she is strengthened, empowered and encouraged by some “walking angel” you put in her path today.   I pray for the nurses that come in contact with my Pappow today; I pray they will see him as if they were his own grandfather lying there, with love and gentleness.  I pray for my sister and her husband who are also nurses.  Lord, I pray for my dad, for my Uncle Steve, for my cousins, for my brother and sister…. I ask you to use me to comfort and love, help me be strong.  I love you Jesus.  I am thankful today, very thankful for all you do for me.  I love you Jesus.  Amen.”

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Christopher Gets Glasses

I mentioned in my last post that Christopher failed his vision screening at school. We took him to see our eye doctor. Sure enough, he did poorly on his vision test. The doctor seemed stunned that his right and left eye are not talking to each other! For me, it confirmed what the therapist said weeks earlier that his right and left brain are not working together/talking together.

We saw the Pediatric Neurologist. While he found his left side to be a little weaker than his right, he does not feel it is weak enough for something to be wrong; HOWEVER, he is ordering an MRI, EEG and extensive blood work to make sure he is isn't missing something.

My little man has always used both hands for writing, coloring, playing. I'm anxious to see what the results show.

I'm attaching a few pictures of my handsome fella in his new glasses. I still have Halloween pics to post another time.






Christopher getting fitted for glasses video.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

My Little Man and Life

My little man failed his school vision test; had him seen today for a full eye exam; he is getting glasses.  Also, the doctor that saw him said his two eyes are not working together, possibly having a double vision effect.  This confirms what the specialist have said about his right brain and left brain not working together.  The doctor is hoping the glasses will help.  It is possible that one eye is trying to shut down, hence why the therapist are saying his right eye is his strong eye.  If after two months the glasses do not help, we will be sent to UAB for vision therapy.  There is only one doctor in Pensacola Blue Cross Blue Shield will not pay for it, and the doctor won't bill Medicaid, which is his secondary.  The thought is it would be cheaper to drive to Birmingham than to see this particular doctor and have to pay cash.  The more we find out that is wrong with my little man, the more I love him.  While this breaks our hearts, I know the Great Physician, I know He makes no mistakes at all and there is a great purpose for his little life.  He is so special.

My heart is hurting for my Mammow and Pappow, I miss them and need to see them; emotions are high already because of this.  My Pappow is in the final stages of life it seems.  While I know he does not know me, it is very important for me to just see him and hug him, tell him that I love him, just one more time.  But… then I feel like that is selfish because in order for me to do that, I will be taking away from my own family financially, and time wise.  I don’t want my Pappow dying without saying those three words, “I love you.” 

I “feel” like my life is a whirl wind right now; no longer is the tornado being held at bay.  I’m trying to rest more in Him, having to tell myself over and over that “it’s not about me” and that this too shall pass.  I’m not sure why there have been so many obstacles put in our life this few months, heck years; but I pray, I believe, when we come through each of them, we, as a family will be closer, stronger and more united with the Lord than we have ever been.  For that, woohoo, I’m excited for!

Oh, on a very positive note, got GREAT news on my little man this morning from Dr. Hagerott, the Pediatric Neuro-Physciatrist he has been seeing and who tested his I.Q.  In vocabulary and use of words, even with his 15 month delay speech impairment, he scored at 114!  Normal is 90 to 104.  In every other category, he scored in the normal range!  She wants him to continue with the Occupational therapy that works with his fine motor skills, the OCD, and sensory disorder; BUT because he is so smart, she believes he needs to be in a NORMAL Kindergarten class next year!  No more ESE (developmentally delayed) classes after this year!  She thinks the reason he talks so much is because his little brain is not being stimulated enough!  She is referring him to a pediatric neurologist to do some testing to find out why and what is causing his right brain and left brain not work together.  That will take a few months to get in, so I am praying for an appointment before Christmas. 

So, lots of information today; little on overload, so gonna ice my foot and rest for a few minutes.

I can not wait to see what the Lord does with my little man’s life.  I’ve already been taught sooo much from his life of five years, just blows my mind!

Have a good one.

Monday, October 26, 2009

Jehova Jireh and October Winner

I mentioned yesterday on my facebook status that when I pulled my kids winter clothes out that none of them fit!  I couldn’t believe how much they had grown. 

I was a little overwhelmed with the thought of buying new clothes for them, until the phone rang.  My mom was on the other end of the line and she said apparently one of the doctor’s she works for dropped off some clothes are her door step for Kaitlyn!  There were three bags of clothes ya’ll, pants, shirts, summer clothes and shoes.  I couldn’t believe it.  Immediately I thought, “He knows my needs before I even do.”  Mom doesn’t know when the clothes were put there, and I don’t need to know.  What I know is I didn’t know I had a need , BUT HE DID!!!  While many of the clothes given to Kaitlyn are short sleeved, the fact that there were several pair of pants and a couple dresses she can wear to church, I was just thrilled! 

So, with that said, you can imagine the surprise when I get a call today from a friend that had a bag of clothes for not only Kaitlyn, but for Christopher too!  There were several long pants, shorts, t-shirts, socks, I couldn’t believe it.  Then I thought, “Why do I get so surprised every time the Lord meets a need?”  Shame on me.  The fact is, I didn’t even ask Him to meet the need, I complained about it, and He still met the need!  Amazing.

My husband drove me all over Pensacola today making AVON deliveries.  He made as many of them for me that he could; but we still have more to do tomorrow.  I’m thankful he has taken time off to help me for the next few weeks.  

Soooo, without further adieu …..(is that the correct spelling?!)

The winner of October’s Christmas Give-A-Way is……

JUDY LLOYD!!!!  Woohoo!!!

Thank you to everyone that entered!  I will have another Give-A-Way on November 25th, so please put it on your calendar to check back!

Be blessed as you continue to trust in Him!

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Where Did October Go???/October Give-A-Way

All I can say is I totally dropped the ball! It is 6:11 on Sunday night, and it literally just dawned on me that it was the 25th of October. I don’t know where October went, but what I do know is that I was SUPPOSED to host a Give-A-Way today counting down Christmas!

Can you believe it is only 60 days until Christmas?!

That means TWO months!

When did we leave January?!

I used to think time passed by so slow and I wanted it to hurry up all the time! Oh to go back in time and give that extra hug, to smell the roses, to cherish every moment with grandparents and great-grandparents, and even parents.

I heard it stated once that the “highway to hell was paved with good intentions.” I’ve always liked that stated until time became so precious that I don’t seem to have enough of it.

I think of my time schedule and how quickly time passes, and I wonder, “What exactly is God’s timeline?”

The Bible tells us that He knows no time, so how is that supposed to affect me? In my thoughts it means taking every opportunity to live with no regrets; that if today I took my last breath, that my husband, my kids, my parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, friends and even some acquaintances, would know I loved them, that they are special, not only to me, but to Jesus. That I would have no bitterness in my heart for anyone, that I had a pure heart.

In life’s craziness, and especially with the Christmas Season quickly approaching; don’t forget the reason we celebrate Christmas… it’s about a man, that was born of a virgin named Mary. He was born in a lowly place and lived a short life of only 33 years. He was born to die. He died, carrying the weight of the world on His shoulder’s. He died for you, He died for me, and now, He reigns as King!

Oh I hope and pray that if you don’t know Him today, that you will take the time to ask Him into your heart this very moment. The Bible tells us that when one lost soul comes to know Him, that angels are rejoicing in Heaven. Wow. Isn’t that just awesome!

Oh friend, know why you celebrate what you do.

Now, for October’s Give-A-Way, I thought of feet. Since Jesus came in order to serve and He washed feet, I thought about a foot give-a-way!

I have a 3 piece Foot Works Set and a cute pink show foot file!




Berry Mint Moisturizing Foot Cream




Berry Mint Foot Soak
Berry Mint Foot Scrub





1 Pink Shoe Foot File


To enter today’s give-a-way, all you have to do is leave your name and email address in the comment section. To double your chances to win you can post a link to my blog on your facebook wall. Just email me to let me know.

Also since it’s 7:00 on Sunday night, I will not draw names until after 7:00 P.M. Monday night.

Good luck and enjoy!

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Impurities... Gotta Love 'Em

Our family has experienced many “stresses,” “heartaches,” “trials,” whatever word you choose to use, during the last many months. We lived in a pop up camper for three weeks while home was treated for black mold, we’ve been to numerous doctors for our son to find out what is going on in his precious little mind, we’ve had home school issues with our oldest and our son, teenage difficulties, parenting difficulties, marriage obstacles, health problems, we were without a vehicle for over three months, I could go on. Each trial, testing our faith, sometimes our faith would waiver, but in the end; well, the end would be death, so in our present circumstances, our faith has been strengthened.

There is something the Lord showed me recently that I would like to share with you. I turned 38 recently. In 38 years I have never taken care of my skin. My face was washed with soap and water or sometimes just water. I never moisturized; nothing. I started taking care of my skin a few months ago. Once I started the cleansing process, I started breaking out! You would have thought I hit puberty!!! It was ridiculous. At first I thought I was having an allergic reaction to the cleansers, but was advised to give it a few more days and see what happens. I did just that. Sure enough, after a few more days, there weren't as many pimples on my face, a few more days later, MORE came up! Then it started clearing up again. During one of my facial cleansing moments, the Lord gave me a beautiful visual. He said to me, "Stacey, all these years you've had all these impurities in your skin and you never knew it because you couldn't see them. Just as it takes time to get all these little impurities out, so it is with the Christian walk." He then said, "If I showed you all you shouldn’t be doing at one time, or even blessed you with all I want to bless you with, you would give up. It would be too overwhelming. As you grow in Christ, I am able to show you things, the hidden sins of your heart."

I was reminded of that visual a few Sunday's past in Sunday School. We were learning more about Psalm 51. One of my favorites. I found myself wondering if at first David was just going through motions of his prayer of forgiveness; but then, the more He prayed, the more the Holy Spirit convicted, the more the Holy Spirit showed David the err of his ways.

That particular Sunday the teacher also had us read aloud another translation of Psalm 51. It reminded me of a Prayer that I wrote that I took straight from Psalm 51.

I am thankful today for my Jesus. I sure don't know how I would be surviving these last few months without Him!

John 15: 12 – 15

Psalm 51




Prayer of Restoration
Taken from Psalm 51

Oh Father be gracious and merciful to me according to your faithfulness and compassion. Forgive me Lord where I fall short and fail you. Thank You for cleansing me Lord from my sin, thank You for remembering them no more, for throwing them as far as the east is to the west and unto the depths of the sea. I know what I did was wrong Lord, I am filled with remorse. I know I have hurt You Lord, I know I have sinned against You and only You. I know I deserve Your wrath and condemnation, but Your word tells me of your grace and mercy, that you are a loving God, a forgiving God and that in You I can have inner peace that only comes from You. Father search my heart and cleanse me, teach me wisdom Lord. Cleanse me so that I might be whiter than snow so that I can rejoice in Your healing. Create a clean heart for me Lord and renew my spirit. Don’t banish me from your presence Lord. Restore the Joy of Your salvation Lord, remind me of the joy that I had as a new creation, remind me of the miracles You have performed in my life, remind me of the freshness that comes from only You Lord! Take this guilt away from me Lord, I don’t want it, I want freedom Lord. Thank you Father for your forgiveness, I will testify to others what you have done if my life, I will praise you Father. Keep me humble and pure I pray, rejoicing in You Lord until your return, Amen (so be it).

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Reese Witherspoon In Bloom

I am hard to sell on fragrance. Being an AVON Representative, that's tough. The new Bond Girl 007 Forever, I liked because of the longevity of the scent; it was a little strong at first, but as the day went on, the nicer it smelled. The scent stayed on through an entire day of running errands and going non-stop! I have found the same to be true with In Bloom. The scent is much softer and prettier, if that makes any sense at all. In case you haven't seen it, here is the latest commercial. I hope you will take the next 31 seconds and watch it.

The scent is available in a shower gel, body lotion and spray (and includes a beautiful gift bag) for under $40! Try it today. With AVON, and all its products, we have a 100% money back guarantee. If for ANY reason you are not satisfied, you get your money back. What do you have to lose?!

I'd love to place your order today or you can shop at my online store 24/7:

http://www.youravon.com/spaden

Reese Witherspoon In Bloom

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

The Wicker Basket

My cousin sent this out this morning.  I had not seen this one before; but needed this gentle reminder.  There are times in my life that it seems my prayers have just bounced off the ceilings, and that nothing is coming through His word to me; but this example tells otherwise.  I hope it blesses your heart as it did mine.

The story is told of an old man who lived on a farm in the mountains of eastern Kentucky with his young grandson. Each morning, Grandpa was up early sitting at the kitchen table reading from his old worn-out Bible. His grandson who wanted to be just like him tried to imitate him in any way he could.
One day the grandson asked, "Papa, I try to read the Bible just like you but I don't understand it, and what I do understand I forget as soon as I close the book. What good does reading the Bible do?" The Grandfather quietly turned from putting coal in the stove and said, "Here, take this old wicker coal basket down to the river for me, and bring back a basket of water."
The boy did as he was told, even though all the water leaked out before he could get back to the house. The grandfather laughed and said, "You will have to move a little faster next time," and sent him back to the river with the basket to try again. This time the boy ran faster, but again the old wicker basket was empty before he returned home out of breath, he told his grandfather that it was "impossible to carry water in a basket," and he went to get a bucket instead. The old man said, "I don't want a bucket of water; I want a basket of water. You can do this. You're just not trying hard enough," and he went out the door to watch the boy try again.
At this point, the boy knew it was virtually impossible, but he wanted to show his grandfather that even if he ran as fast as he could, the water would leak out before he got very far at all. The boy scooped the water and ran hard, but when he reached his grandfather, the basket was empty once again... Out of breath, he said, "See Papa, it's useless!"

"So you think it is useless?" His grandfather said, "Look at the basket.."  So the boy looked at the basket and for the first time he realized that the basket looked different. Instead of a dirty old wicker coal basket, it was clean inside and out.

"Son, that's what happens when you read the Bible. You might not understand or remember everything, but when you read it, it will change you from the inside out."

Moral of the wicker basket story: Take time to read a portion of God's word each day; it will affect you for good even if you don't retain but a few drops.  Step into the water - get wet! Trust God with the changes.

Monday, October 12, 2009

A Very L-O-N-G Read….. Sorry.

It was confirmed, FINALLY, I have a stress fracture.  I am in a boot and being referred to seeing an Orthopedic doctor. I have been told to stay off it as much as possible until I see the Orthopedic doctor.  Chris and I are working on my schedule to see when he can take off to help me deliver the remainder of this weeks AVON orders.  I can not drive as it is my right foot that is injured.

Two weeks ago, my seventeen year old daughter was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia.  Finally we know what is and has been going on with her for about three years now.  Seems hard to believe a seventeen year old could suffer like this, but she does.  She’s just glad to have a name too it and know there really is something wrong and that it’s not all in her head!

During the exam, the doctor asked who in our family has it.  I told her, "I've been complaining of these symptoms for nearly 10 years;" but was told I was 'depressed' and prescribed an anti-depressant.  She asked me to come in and see her, which I did last week.  She said I not only have Fibromyalgia, but she ran 8 vials of blood work to rule out many other things.  One in particular she was concerned with is Rheumatoid Arthritis.  I'm believing these results will be negative and I will learn how to handle what I have to handle.  Just knowing that there is something wrong is half the battle.  All these years I've thought I was really crazy.... of course, that would depend on who you asked though! 

One big challenge is my obvious weight problem.  I've struggled with it for years.  Honestly, I have so much on my plate with tending to family member appointments, finances, Christopher's Occupational Therapy and the list could go on and on, that I don't and haven't wanted to do anything about it.  I am praying that the Lord would make me want to make a change, that He would change my heart and that His desire would be my desire to get healthy.  This also, while Kayla is skin and bone, would help her tremendously..... all of us.

Christopher has just completed his I.Q. testing.  We get those results in just a few weeks.  Christopher has been diagnosed with a Sensory Disorder, ADHD, OCD and possibly Tourettes Syndrome; however, further testing will be done on the Tourettes to make sure it is not a side effect of his medications.  Christopher is sleeping much better on a night time medication also!  Huge Praise as he was up till 10 and 11 each night and then up and down all night long! 

Christopher is also playing UpWard Soccer at Olive.  I'll post pictures in a few days.  Kaitlyn tried, but she was under the age requirements and since Chris was the coach, he was hoping she would do OK.  Instead, we bought her a cheap $2 pair of pom-poms and she is now cheering for the team! 

Kayla, other than the Fibromyalgia and some reoccurring headaches, is doing OK.  With all that is on my plate, she is going to either be going to PJC Adult High or Pine Forrest High School for her senior year.  Actually, she will be tested to find out where she will be placed.  Our hopes are that she has learned what should have been learned in earlier years and that once she starts testing everything will just fall in place.  She has to have an outside life outside of home.  She just has to.

Through all these past few months, I know I haven't blogged and I know I have lost a lot of readers.  While that makes my heart sad, I also know I had to take care of me, of my family.  If I can't take care of the home-front, then I'm not doing anybody else any good. 

There is something, though, that the Lord showed me recently that I would like to share with you.  I turned 38 recently.  In 38 years I have never taken care of my skin.  My face was washed with soap and water or sometimes just water.  I never moisturized, nothing.  I started taking care of my skin a few months back.  Once I started the cleansing process, I started breaking out!  You would have thought I hit puberty!!!  It was ridiculous.  At first I thought I was having an allergic reaction to the cleansers, but was advised to give it a few more days and see what happens.  I did just that.  Sure enough, after a few more days, there weren't as many pimples on my face, a few more days later, MORE came up!  Then it started clearing up again.  During one of my cleansing moments, the Lord gave me a beautiful visual.  He said to me, "Stacey, all these years you've had all these impurities in your skin an you never knew it because you couldn't see them.  Just as it takes time to get all these little impurities out, so it is with the Christian walk."  He then said, "If I showed you all you shouldn’t be doing at one time, or even blessed you with all I want to bless you with, you would give up.  As you grow in Christ, I am able to show you things, the hidden sins of your heart." 

Wow.  Isn't that something.  I was reminded of that visual just this past Sunday in Sunday School.  We were learning more about Psalm 51.  One of my favorites.  I found myself wondering if at first David was just going through the motions of his prayer of forgiveness; but then, the more He prayed, the more the Holy Spirit convicted, the more the Holy Spirit showed David of the err of his ways.

This past Sunday the teacher also had us read aloud another translation of Psalm 51.  It reminded me of a Prayer that I wrote (when I was in the middle of writing my book that I still haven’t done anything with) that I took straight from Psalm 51. 

I know this has been a long read, but just had it on my heart to finally let ya'll know what has been going on in the home front.  I am thankful today for my Jesus.  I sure don't know how I would be surviving these last few months with out Him! 

Prayer of Restoration

Taken from Psalm 51

Oh Father be gracious and merciful to me according to your faithfulness and compassion. Forgive me Lord where I fall short and fail you. Thank You for cleansing me Lord from my sin, thank You for remembering them no more, for throwing them as far as the east is to the west and unto the depths of the sea. I know what I did was wrong Lord, I am filled with remorse. I know I have hurt You Lord, I know I have sinned against You and only You. I know I deserve Your wrath and condemnation, but Your word tells me of your grace and mercy, that you are a loving God, a forgiving God and that in You I can have inner peace that only comes from You. Father search my heart and cleanse me, teach me wisdom Lord. Cleanse me so that I might be whiter than snow so that I can rejoice in Your healing. Create a clean heart for me Lord and renew my spirit. Don’t banish me from your presence Lord. Restore the Joy of Your salvation Lord, remind me of the joy that I had as a new creation, remind me of the miracles You have performed in my life, remind me of the freshness that comes from only You Lord! Take this guilt away from me Lord, I don’t want it, I want freedom Lord. Thank you Father for your forgiveness, I will testify to others what you have done if my life, I will praise you Father. Keep me humble and pure I pray, rejoicing in You Lord until your return, Amen (so be it).

Friday, October 2, 2009

Oops…What Did I Do?!

Well, I guess I have officially lost my mind.  I clearly remember posting the winner of September’s Christmas Give-A-Way, but it is not here.  HHHHMMMMM……. I have no clue what happened.

Gail Powell won the Skin So Soft Winter Hand Treatment!

I will have another post on October 25th!

Also, I have MANY updates…on Christopher and Kayla.  Have just been overwhelmed with my schedule. 

Congrats to Gail!

Thursday, September 24, 2009

September 25th Christmas Countdown Give-A-Way!!

This week marks the beginning of fall. I love cool and COLD weather! What I do not like about it is my skin sensitivity. I get chapped from cold dry skin horribly. BUT, with my SSS Wintersoft hand wash, hand cream and intense concentrate, I won’t have that problem any more!
I hope you will leave your name and email address in the comment section to enter today’s give-a-way. Entries must be made before 8:00 A.M. on Saturday the 26th. I will announce winners later that day.
Please tell your friends about this give-a-way. You can also add my blog link to your facebook page to enter to win. If you don’t have a Google account, you can still enter from here. Put your name and email address in the comment section, type in the security letters, then click “anonymous.”

SSS Wintersoft Intense Concentrate


SSS Wintersoft Hand Cream






SSS Wintersoft Handy Wash




If you have never shopped AVON before, or haven't shopped with us in a long time, we offer many more products than Skin So Soft, Make-Up and Fragrance. We also offer clothing, toys for children, jewelry, home decor and much more.

Please take a few moments and visit my store online at www.youravon.com/spaden.

I would LOVE to help you with your Birthday, Anniversary, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas Shopping!

Good Luck, and Merry Christmas! (It’s only 90 days away!!!!)

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Woohoo!

I have received several emails the last few days from Christopher’s school teacher.  They have added another bus route for the ESE students!  Christopher will be getting picked up between 6:55 and 7:10 in the mornings, NOT at 6:00 as originally scheduled!  This is good news.  HOWEVER, Christopher will be missing a lot of school due to I.Q. testing, development testing, sensory screenings and neurology appointments over the next six months.  I will continue homeschooling him on the days he misses, which will be one or two days a week.  I am so proud of him.  Today, he completely wrote his name all by himself.  I had written it with a capital “C” and the rest in lower case.  He traced it as I had written it, but underneath where I wrote his name, he wrote his name in all capital letters!!!  I couldn’t believe it!  We have been working hard on numbers.  He still can’t count to 10, but he memorizes Bible verses weekly.  Don’t know if not being able to count to 10 is normal or not, but I am sure grateful he can memorize scripture!  Anyway, this was good news for me to receive as my schedule is very, very full. 

Kayla’s home school evaluation is tomorrow; she also has another MRI on her knee tomorrow.  The bone scan done last week showed nothing.  She also sees a Rheumatologist tomorrow.  

There is much to be thankful for in the Paden household.  Thankful that I serve a risen Savior that is in charge and I don’t have to worry.  That in itself, gives me comfort and rest.

Will update on Kaylou when I can; and Christopher’s testing.  That’s a four week process so that will take a while to get those results.

Have a great week.  I think I’m going to bed early tonight:)

Monday, September 7, 2009

FINAL Day At 50% Profit!

I just wanted to let you know of some changes that are taking place with AVON. Starting in Campaign 20 (September 8th, 2009..... which is tomorrow....Tuesday), new Representatives will receive 40% profit on their first four campaigns, not the 50% as it has been for so many years.

TODAY, is the last day I can sign new representatives up to receive the guarantee 50% profit for their first four campaigns.

What does that 50% discount cover, ANYTHING in the campaign books that are not marked with a star. Items with a star are out-sourced items and those are discounted at 20%.

After your first four campaigns (8 weeks), your discount/profit is based on your sales. As long as you order $25 or more a campaign, you will receive at least a 20% discount. Just think, EVEN IF YOU HAVE NO DESIRE TO SELL AVON TO OTHERS, you can still get ALL your items at a 20% discount AFTER the first four campaigns!

Think of how much money you spend at the grocery store or Wal-Mart or department stores on bath soaps, deodorant, make-up, moisturizers, jewelry and so much more.... now imagine receiving a discount just by being your own customer!

There is a $10 start up fee; BUT, what that start up fee covers are books for two campaigns to hand out, samples, online training information, customer invoices, credit card slips and an AVON bag. I actually lose money with all that I put in my start up bags. AVON is not taking your money.... you are simply paying for your start up costs.

I look forward to hearing from you if you are interested in being signed up. If you are not interested, remember AVON orders are due Tuesday by 9 a.m. for Campaign 19! You don’t have to be local for me to sign you up…. I’d love to get you started!

Thank you!!

Stacey L. Paden
AVON Independent Sales Rep.
Pensacola, FL
850-332-6855
www.youravon.com/spaden

Are you interested in earning an extra income to help make ends meet?
I'd love to share my AVON experience with you!
I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Friday, September 4, 2009

Life's Many Chapters

I have been very busy the last few months; haven't blogged much at all. In fact, as much as I love facebook, my time is growing slim on their as well.

I am not complaining about the business of my schedule; by no means. It seems strangely in the last few weeks an unexplainable peace has filled my heart and mind. A lot has happened in the last few weeks as well. A few months ago we were going to move, then that changed, several things have changed in the last few months.

While my schedule is very full with homeschooling Kayla, at this time we are finding it necessary to keep Christopher home also. He is finally sleeping at night for the first time in years and to have to wake him up at 4:45 A.M. every day to walk to a bus stop at 5:45 every day to catch at 6:00 bus and ride the bus for an hour and half is ridiculous! It would defeat the purpose of him being on a medication that helps him sleep and get the sleep his little body needs. I would LOVE for him to be in school; but until we get a vehicle where we could take him in the mornings and let him ride the bus home, we just can't do it.

Much more in life has occurred; some just too personal to share. My heart is in writing but I haven't even been writing.

I told my husband I don't' "feel" like I'm doing anything for the Lord anymore. He assures me taking care of my family, helping with his family, and touching the lives of many women through AVON is doing what the Lord wants me to do right now. Each day He seems to give me remarkable strength to do what each day holds. While tired, I haven't seem overwhelmed on that daily basis like I was a few months ago.

I have just rambled today; and I'm sure haven't made much sense, but wanted ya'll to know I am still here, haven't given up on my dream of publishing my book, speaking with women and encouraging women, sharing the hope of Christ with the hurting.... but right now, taking care of my first ministry, my family.... is the chapter of my life right now.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

August Christmas Give-A-Way is…..

SHARON MISNER!!!!!!

Congratulations Sharon!  I’ll email you and/or call you to deliver your winnings!

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Countdown To Christmas Give-A-Way!

Today’s Christmas give-a-way includes a 3 piece jewelry set and travel case from AVON AND a CD 4 disc sermon series from Pastor Ted Traylor, “Equipping Young People to Stand for Jesus.”

Leave your name and email address in the comment section to be entered in today’s Christmas Give-A-Way! You can enter on the blog site anonymously if you don’t have a google account, JUST MAKE SURE TO LEAVE YOUR NAME AND EMAIL IN THE COMMENT SECTION!

You can also enter on facebook! Put my blog link on YOUR WALL to enter to win.


Entering time cuts off at 7:30 A.M. Wednesday August 26th. I’ll announce the winner Wednesday.

I am trying to find a picture of the CD series. As soon as I find it, I will post it!

Psalm 51:10, “Oh God, Create a clean heart for me and renew a steadfast spirit within in.”

Saturday, August 22, 2009

OVER 100 Uses For AVON’s Skin So Soft!

Found this information on another blog site and now can’t find it again!  I also know there are other uses, but please take a minute to review this amazing list!!!!  WOW!


PERSONAL USES
1. It's a bath oil and after shower moisturizer.

2. It can be used to remove makeup.

3. Great tanning oil (no sunscreen).

4. Hot oil treatment to soften cuticles.

5. Great massage oil for tired muscles.

6. Cleans off tape marks left from bandages on skin.

7. Cleans ink off the skin.

8. Insect repellent.

9. Helps relieve itching caused by dry skin.

10. Cleans oil and grease off of skin.

11. Painting something? Use SSS to remove paint from the hands. (Instead of turpentine).

12. It soothes light sunburn.

13. Rub hands with it before washing, it helps get them cleaner.

14. Rub on dry, cracked skin.... helps heal skin in 2-3 days.

15. Put 1-2 cap fills in liquid soap and use it for shaving legs and under arms. Helps razor glide and leaves skin feeling smooth.

16. Pour a little into your Foot Saver to help moisturize your feet while you relax them.

17. It removes chewing gum from hair, skin, and most nonporous surfaces.

18. Cleans permanent ink off stamps.

19. SSS Original Bath Oil works GREAT on Head Lice!!!!! Saturate head and let it set for 15 minutes. Then rinse under an outdoor faucet, but the lice were gone!!!!!!! Of course shampoo hair a couple of times to get the oil out, but the lice were gone and stayed gone!

20. It kills ants instantly.

21. Spray on skin to relieve dry itching skin. Helps skin retain it's elasticity.

22. Wash hair with shampoo and conditioner like always and after it dries.... Use about the size of a dime of SSS and rub it in your hair. It goes straight in and leaves hair as shiny as the ads on TV, not greasy at all, just soft and shiny.

23. Use bath oil towelettes -- cover windowsill with towelettes to keep ants out.

24. (LICE) Sometimes, using a bath oil, like Avon's SSS, will work to loosen the glue, which holds the nits to the hair. There is a product called Neon Nits, which when sprayed on the hair, will highlight the nits so you can see them to then snip them out with a small scissors.

25. Testimony: “This is to let you readers known about something that helped me for a mild case of psoriasis on my elbows. My internist recommended that I try Avon's SSS bath oil spray. I did and it eliminated the psoriasis on my elbows”-unknown Avon rep

26. Bath use, fill bath with water and a little SSS, very relaxing and gets rid of dry skin.

HOUSEHOLD USES
27. Sponge it around doors, windows, and on screens to keep crawling bugs out.

28. It's a good wood cleaner and conditioner for natural wood.

29. It removes glue and gum left from price tags and labels from glass, metals, and most plastics.

30. It removes soap scum from shower doors and curtains, and bathroom and kitchen figures.

31. It removes lime and hard water deposits from fixtures, tile, shower doors and windows.

32. It's an oil lubricant for fitting pipe joints that won't slip together.

33. It cleans ink off most vinyl and painted surfaces.

34. It cleans heavy oil and grease from nonporous surfaces.

35. It takes fur off of clothing.

36. Rub on brass ornaments or figurines to help keep them from turning dark.

37. Removes crayon from appliances and most painted surfaces.

38. Wash cupboards with it mixed in your cleaning water to keep ants off and out of the cupboards.

39. Use it to discourage hornets from building their nests. After using a hornet killing spray, remove the nest and keep the area sprayed with SSS. They will not rebuild there.

40. Use it to clean leather; it will also keep it soft and supple.

41. Use it on your air conditioning screen (filter)--your incoming air will smell fresher and the filter is easier to clean.

42. Rub all over windowsills to keep ants out.

43. It cleans paintbrushes easily and leaves them soft as new.

44. It removes gum from carpets.

45. It removes scuffmarks from patent leather shoes.

46. Use it on running rails for sliding glass doors and windows.

47. It removes "ring around the collar".

48. It removes liquid nail (paneling glue).

49. Two glass bowls or glasses stuck together? Drizzle a little SSS down the sides and they'll come apart easily.

50. It removes candle wax from furniture, carpets and clothing.

51. Hummingbird Feeders: To deter bees try rubbing SSS on the feeder surface by the feeder ports.

52. Maggots too!! You squirted SSS in can and lid, then later flushed with soapy water, you shouldn't have any bugs in cans rest of summer!!!

53. It is a great furniture polish!

54. Ok, we have a new use for SSS bath oil. Put it in one of the bottle that you attach to your backyard hose and then spray down the back yard! Will cut down on ants, mosquitoes and other creepy crawlies.

55. People around the outskirts of Eureka and surrounding areas (and sometimes in town) spray it on their rose bushes to keep the deer from eating them, and at the cemeteries on the flowers they put out there for the same reason.

56. Kills spiders. (ok I’m sold)

57. It cuts grease and cleans dirt from range hoods.

58. Add a capful to wash water of clothes...acts as a fabric softener and keeps the bugs off clothes.

59. Spray on orchids and other flowers for moisture and to keep bugs away.

60. Cleans baseball caps. Just spray on and rub with toothbrush.

61. SSS I used this recipe mix one part SSS and 2 parts water on my tomato plants and kept those ugly old tomato worms off. I think that adding the vinegar would be fine too and would be nice not to have to shake the spray bottle all the time. I sprayed my plants about every 2 or 3 days. Worked grand!! Too late for most this year, but file this for next.

62. SSS bath oil also does a great job cleaning cherry wood cabinets.

63. Put a little in your mopping water to help keep crawling bugs out. (Not too much or the floor gets slippery.)

64. Use to clean windows.

65. Removes crayon from most surfaces.

66. It's a great insect repellent (or you can use Bug Guard, the actual SSS repellent)

67. Screens can be lightly sprayed with Avon SSS to repel no-see-'ums and tiny gnats that otherwise might slip though the screens.

68. Another use for SSS is it will kill those pesky earwigs. Spray it on & they don't return to life.

69. Also if you ever make candles, use clear wax and melt put SSS in it and harden works great for out side in the summer.

70. As a deodorizer, spray into air and let settle, kills those nasty pet orders.

71. Kids rooms if a child wets the bed, spray the bedding and sheets before washing and will give it a fresh clean smell.

ANIMAL USES
72. It's a great insect repellent for your pet. (As recommended in "Outdoor Life" and "Field and Stream")

73. Mix 5 parts water, 1 part SSS and mist on animals. Brushing it in makes their coats gleam and keeps insects off so the animals don't fidget in the show ring.

74. Mix in your pet's bath water. It takes the fleas off of them...and in between sprays them with the same mixture as in #2 to help keep them off.

75. Rub on your hands before and after working with your pets and farm animals. It will remove the strong smells.

76. Black Fly Spray For Dogs: Use as a spray or a dip. 1 cup SSS, 1/2 cup liquid detergent and 3 gallons of water.

77. For dogs dry skin mix 1 tablespoon of SSS per gallon of water and use as an after bath rinse. Or spritz your pet's coat once per week.

78. If your dog should get tar or asphalt on the pads of their feet rub on SSS and then wipe off.

79. Flea Bath: Use a flea and tick shampoo. Rinse, rinse, rinse so no soap residue is left. Follow with final rinse of 2 gallons of water mixed with flea dip and 1 capful of SSS. The SSS helps replace the oils lost in bathing and has the added benefit of repelling insects.

80. Flea Repellent: Avon's SSS Bath Oil. 1-1/2 ounces per gallon of water; used as a sponge-on dip (or as a spritz) has been tested and proven to have significant, but not complete, flea-repellent activity for a 6-day period. It should help those dry coats, too.

81. Does anyone use the Avon SSS bath oil on his or her chows? I have begun using it on Chancey and it has done wonders for her skin. Like, many chows, she has very dry and flaky skin, especially for being black. Since I started using that product, her dandruff and itchiness has improved tremendously and her hair has become shiny and smooth. It also serves as a great flea and tick protector. I use it about twice a month and I just spray it on her. I really like it.

82. I use the following on my horses and on my dogs when necessary. 1-cup Avon SSS bath oil 1-cup white vinegar 1-cup (or more) water 5 cc of essential oil of citronella (from the health food store NOT the type you burn to keep insects away that is available in a drug store) Mix in a spray bottle. Straight SSS works well for mosquito’s too but really makes your dog greasy.

83. (Barns) Use of an inexpensive fly control spray or a diluted mix of Avon SSS in water can be sprayed on barn walls and floor to discourage insects from hanging around or to eliminate them before putting in the new bedding. As time permits, and if you can keep your goats out of the barn for a few hours - let the barn stand and air out before re-filling with bedding.

84. Rub on your hands before and after working with pets and farm animals, takes away pet odor.

85. Avon's SSS bath oil massaged directly into the skin of your Rottweiler acts not only as a successful repellant and makes their dogs smell good but helps prevent drying and itchy skin.

86. A natural way to help cats with flea problems and flea allergies is to rub Skin So Soft into the skin. Once a bug, always a bug. Fleas don't like it either! Spread the word!

87. Cats: SSS IS SAFE FOR FUR LICKING -------The SSS plus is safe as long as it is the one without sunscreen.

88. Don't overuse the SSS. I just use the lotion, and rub it into the skin, not more than every few days. My cat's sensitive and we're being careful. Common sense is the rule. Sprinkling Yeast on the cat food helps, too. My cat's fur is medium-length; he's part Persian, and he's doing fine, no ill effects from the SSS. You can check with your vet to be sure if it's okay...


USES FOR HORSES
89. SSS can be used as a hoof polish. This will put a nice shine to the hoof without drying it. The farrier's wife will appreciate this one!

90. SSS can be used as a muzzle, eye, and ear enhancer. Generally we used baby oil but it was so messy. I tried SSS and it works great and still helps keep bugs away.

91. I have a show mare that has allergies and also gets dry skin very easily so I started giving her baths in SSS. What I do is bathe her like normal and then I put a capful of SSS in a 5-gallon bucket of warm water and sponge this all over her. Her hair coat dries silky soft and she quits itching. Works for her.

92. The bug guard towelettes we had last summer work great on the horse’s ears and around their eyes.

93. When I have to band (braid) their manes I use the Techniques Oil Sheen. It seems to help hold the braids a lot better and they don't try to rub them out.

94. The dry end serum works great in their tails as a detangler. Everything I have mentioned here I use faithfully on our show horses. The products are a heck of a lot cheaper than actual horse products. People see me using these products at the horse shows and start inquiring about them. I usually let them take my bottles and try them on their horses at the show, which usually ends up in a sale for me.

AUTOMOBILE USES
95. It removes tar spots from the car without damage to the paint.

96. Use it to clean vinyl dashboards, seats, and tops. It not only cleans, but also keeps it soft and helps to prevent any cracking.

97. After washing your car, use it as a tire dressing to keep them looking like new.

98. Put some on a small washcloth and leave in the car to help keep the air fresh and clean.

99. Wipe down vinyl surfaces inside your car. Cleans nicely and removes smoke odors left by cigarette smokers.

100. It gently cleans heavy grease and oil from skin and nonporous surfaces (great for Mechanic's Hands).

101. It removes tree sap.

102. Prior to traveling...rub SSS on headlights and grill. It makes insects and bugs easier to remove.

103. Shines vehicle tires

104. Open a towelette and use as an automotive air freshener.
*SSS bath oil is approved by the FDA/CDA only as a bath oil. Avon makes no claims of these uses, nor have they.