Use it all; wear it out; make it do; do without:

Who hasn't heard this famous saying about thrift? We learned it from our grandparents, who probably learned it from their grandparents.

In the time of the Great Depression and World War II, this made perfect sense. After all, goods and money were scarce. Even those who were very comfortable during this period -- as my father's family were -- were still of a thrifty mindset. People purchased carefully, and they did not throw items away simply because they passed out of style.

In those days, items from clothing to tools to household goods were made to last. Appliances and such were more more mechanical in nature and less dependent on complicated, computerized electronics. Thus, their lifespan could be extended by careful maintenance. Families passed on the mindset and the skills needed to keep household objects in good order and even perform some repairs. If something couldn't be mended or repaired at home, it could be taken to a nearby shop for affordable service.

Also, because people did not accumulate as much junk as we do nowadays, there was room in the house to save items that might come in handy later. If you did buy a new radio, perhaps the older one might be cleaned and repaired and passed on to a newlywed child.

Those of us who are cleaning out the homes of elderly relatives realize that many kept this mindset even after becoming more affluent. They kept on saving everything -- from true heirlooms to things that have no current value. Who hasn't read stories about Depression-era people who have kept every scrap of twine or tons of scrap paper?

The mindset of buying the best quality items you can afford and using them until they wore out served Depression-era people well, because it is based on some timeless principles of thrift. People from generations previous to the Baby Boomers who are still alive are typically better prepared financially than the Boomers and beyond. Of course, these are generalizations and there are many exceptions. However, the reason the generalizations came about is that there is a good deal of truth to them.

The Depression and World War II generation has a lot to teach us about thrift. However, in recent decades, it has not always been beneficial to hold onto every little thing just in case it might come in handy.

Starting in the 60's and ramping up in the 80's 'til today, goods have become more and more disposable. Manufacturers talk about planned obsolescence, or purposely designing something so that it will not last and the customer will have to buy a new one. This concept actually came into existence in the 20's and 30's, as mass production became more important to our economy. However, even in the early days of planned obsolence, items lasted longer than they do now.

Along with planned obsolescence comes designing, advertising, and marketing all aimed at making us buy the newest style garment, car, refrigerator, etc. In recent years, it seems, style cycles have become shorter and shorter.

On top of that, many of our things are built around complicated electronics now. These things are usually as costly to repair as they are to replace.

Not only that, but our technology is developing rapidly. The gadgets that help us manage life today may be eclipsed by tomorrow's newer invention. My mother-in-law has not been able to understand why she couldn't find anyone who would take the ancient computer she wanted to give away. It simply is not compatible with today's software.

No wonder that many of us today have developed a "stuff is disposable" mindset. We think, "If it breaks, I can get a new one. These are last year's shoes; I 'need' new ones." Many people today do not take care of clothing, cars, and other possessions as our grandparents did.

Since we can afford to have more stuff these days, more of what we buy can easily turn into clutter if we hang on to it long enough. Some of us have learned the hard way that this clutter is expensive to cart around, time-consuming to clean, and, on top of that, an element that disturbs the peace of a home.

Emile Barnes says in her book, "15 Minute Organizer", "We live in a world of mass production and marketing. We must learn to sort and let go of certain things, or else we will need to build a huge warehouse to contain everything...Years ago, when we got something we kept it until it wore out, but, today, it may never wear out before we tire of it...On the average, people keep things several years after their usefulness has passed. Perhaps, we overbuy and have supplies, materials, and tools left over. The things we liked years ago are not what we like and enjoy today, but we keep them anyway."

Today, we even have TV shows devoted mostly to getting us to get rid of clutter. We have shows in which people arrive in the studio with bags of their clothing, none of which works well for them, and they are coached how to buy a new streamlined wardrobe. We also have shows in which people come into overcrowded houses and help people weed out the junk.

Of course, as you blogging sisters have shown us, we need not follow our culture into excess consumption. Should our economic woes continue, those of you who have already been making attempts to be frugal and creative will be ahead of the game.

So, where will our culture's situation go from here? No one's quite sure how the overall economy is going to pan out right now. I don't believe we're in for another Great Depression -- at least not yet. However, I do think more and more people will see the need to learn financial disicpline. My guess is that advances in technology will continue to make computers, I-pods, and the like become quickly obsolete, but in other areas people will give up their "it's all disposable" mindset.

I imagine that we'll see a return to the principles of "Use it all. Wear it out. Make it do, or live without." I think it will be good for all of us.

This is just speculation, but I wonder if the following will come true:

Repair services may become affordable again.
Canning will become more popular than ever.
Sewing will cease to be an expensive hobby and become part of everyday life again. The prices of sewing machines and sewing machines might come down. Fabrics might be better made and more reasonably priced.
People will buy well-made things, rather than stylish throw-away items.
People will maintain cars, refrigerators, and the like for longer periods of time.
People will grow more of their own food, and gardening supplies might become more affordable again.
It might become fashionable in new neighborhoods to have clotheslines and gardens once again, even if those neighborhoods currently have covenants that frown on those things.
More women might see home economy as a worthwhile occupation. The value of a prudent wife might once again be recognized.

Well, those are just my guesses. What about you? Where do you think things are heading? What will the future wave of thrift look like?

And, how are you currently putting into practice, "Use it up. Wear it out. Make it Do. Or, do without?"

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Update on bathroom redo:

I brought home two of the above bathmats, but haven't taken the tags off. I may go with a plain, shaggy bright blue instead. I bought a white eyelet curtain, which I hope will go over the plain blue one that I have in there now. That would be three layers: the liner, the blue fabric, and the white eyelet, but I'm hoping it will all fit on the rings for a blue peek-a-boo effect.

What do you think?

Enjoy!
elizabeth

Help!

I was experimenting with my template today. I'm still using the old blogger on this particular blog, because I would have too much customized stuff to move to a new template. Anyhow, I was excited to learn how to add quotes and photos to the sidebar by posting, using the edit html to get the html code, and then adding the html to the template. In the process, I decided to clear up some blank spaces. Whatever I did, I inadvertantly moved several things from my sidebar to the bottom of my main page.

Does anyone have a suggestion for fixing it?

Thanks.

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

"Don't refuse to go on an occasional wild goose chase - that's what wild geese are for." ~Author Unknown

I saw this quote and picture on the sidebar of the Button Willow Chronicles and thought it was charming. If you love cottages, inspiring quotes, tips from old homemaking books, and lovely illustrations, quotes, and graphics, you'll enjoy this blog. Be sure to give it a visit.

Enjoy!
elizabeth

If you'd like a treat, visit Mrs. U, read her post for Oct. 3, and follow her link to Mrs. S. These ladies tell two lovely stories that are connected with this painting, and I'm sure you'll enjoy them. I have a feeling this is going to become a favorite print of mine.

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

I'm participating in Emma's "A Commitment to Loveliness" challenge this week. You can find it at http://charmingthebirdsfrom thetrees.blogspot.com.

Here's my list:

1) Get in some sewing on my living room curtains.
2) Review my wardrobe; re-organize shoes and accessories; put away the most summery things
3) Continue working on my "Spa Getaway Bathrooms"
4) Bake something for someone
5) attend to nails

Enjoy!
elizabeth

Home as a Haven -- Your home can shine like a light in a distressed world!

Are you tempted to be fretful these days? If so, you're not alone. I've read many articles which say that health officials are seeing an increase in stress.

Why are the people around us so uneasy? Well, as we all know, the economy is shaky. Prices, jobs, home businesses, real estate values, retirement possibilities, and personal budgets are all affected. We are also in the midst of a hotly debated political contest. Whatever convictions people hold, they realize that the outcome can affect our nation for good or for ill. Our culture is in flux, and many people aren't certain that the changes are positive. We are in a war, and some segments of the population are not happy that this war is being fought. The media sensationalizes all of this, and people can't pick up a newspaper, browse the Internet, or turn on the radio or TV without hearing someone opine about how dire things are.

On top of this, people who want to live godly lives -- especially those who want to keep godly homes -- are facing negative pressures from without and struggles from within. Anything worth doing has its challenges, and the road to godliness is no exception.

Then, there are the challenges that can occur in any time and in any place. Some people are concerned about the spiritual and physical well-being of their loved ones. Others are facing health challenges. Still others don't know how to overcome hurts from the past or feelings of inadequacy in the present.

In this environment, we have the choice to live out a real faith or to become frazzled along with everyone else. Whichever path we choose affects how well or how poorly we fill our role as keepers of our homes. It also determines the influence we will have in this world.

I don't know about you, but, as I work around the home, I can find myself meditating on concerns rather than meditating on the things that are true, noble, pure, lovely, and faith-building. When I let my mind settle on worries, I become inefficient and distracted. Because my attention is divided, I make more mistakes. I also miss opportunities to rejoice. From the overflow of my anxious heart, I can infuse my home with a disquieting influence, rather than a peaceful one.

When I live in trust, on the other hand, I am so much more efficient. I am able to concentrate fully on my activities and, thus, to do them well. I also enjoy them more. Plus, God opens doors for me to scatter seeds of faith, so that His peace shines through me. I am more encouraging to my husband and to my children, as well as to others in my life.

Here are a few suggestions that help me keep my focus where it should be. I hope you'll enjoy them, as well:

A. Consider what kingdom you're living in. You're either a citizen of the kingdom of heaven, or you're a citizen of the world. There's no dual citizenship. (Philippians 3:19-21, Colossians 1:13, Hebrews 12:27-29)
What does this mean in practical terms? True disciples of Jesus have their heart set on doing the Father's will on earth as it is done in heaven. They follow Christ's example and lay down their lives for a hurting world. They also fulfill their responsibilities to earthly authorities. In the process, however, they remember that their true home is the eternal and unshakable Kingdom of God. Thus, they do not let themselves become unsettled or entangled by temporary circumstances. Whatever is happening with the economy, politics, or culture at any given time, they know that God works all things for the good for those who love Him. They know the Lord is in control and that his purposes will prevail. They believe that their Heavenly Father -- their King -- will take care of them. This can bring great peace and joy, even in the midst of difficult times. Matthew Chapter Six, Roman Chapters Twelve and Thirteen.
B. Come to terms with the fact that not everyone is going to approve of or understand the decisions you make. Also, don't fret if the world doesn't always fit your wishes or expectations. Is your heart and, thus, your home an outpost of heaven's kingdom? If so, your values and your choices will be in conflict with the worldly kingdom's values and choices and vice versa. Matthew 5:1-12, Luke 16:15, Col. 2:7-9. Peace comes from trusting that the Lord's ways are true and good. Peace also comes when you let go of an undue concern for the approval of men. John 5:43-45. In the psalms, people express the pain of being misunderstood, but they take it to the Lord and leave it in his hands. That's a good example for us to follow.
Of course, we often mess up, and people rightly point out our failings. Sometimes, we may even need a helpful rebuke to gain our attention. "Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness; let him rebuke me—it is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it." Psalm 141:5 Our natural response may be to become defensive, but the Scriptures urge us to love life-giving correction.
Usually, people speak their concerns to us in love, but not always. If you do receive harsh criticism, look for a grain of truth in it. Make right whatever you need to. Do your best to forge a bond of peace. Otherwise, surrender the matter to the Lord and go on about your business. "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Romans 12:18
C. Pray about everything, be anxious for nothing, think about faith-building things, put the scriptures into practice, imitate godly examples. God promises that if we do this things, He will give us a peace that passes understanding. Phil. 4:4-8
Followers of Jesus experience trouble just as everyone else does, and we should not pretend that we don't. The key is how we face these troubles. "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."John 16:33
D. Pray for leaders, nations, the spread of the gospel, etc. Pray; don't stew or fret! Colossians 4:3, I Timothy 2:1-3,
E. Bloom Where God Has Planted You: Be faithful in the responsibilities that God has set before you. Do all you can to have a great marriage. Love your husband and children. Love your neighbors. Have great friends with whom you can worship and pray. Manage your home well and keep your appearance neat. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, doing it for the Lord. The Lord fed 5,000 people with five loaves of bread and two fish. Even if you think your sphere of influence is limited, God can multiply your faithfulness so that it nourishes many.
F. Take practical steps to focus your thoughts on the good. Memorize scripture. Write down encouraging verses on 3X5 cards and place them in your kitchen or carry them with you as you go. Sing! Listen to music that makes you feel happy. Turn your thoughts to prayer throughout the day. Count your blessings. Think about how God took care of many people in the Bible who were faithful in adversity.
G. Overflow with gratitude. Let your conversation be wholesome -- full of grace and seasoned with salt. Col. 4:6
Remember that complaining, bitterness, and worry are contagious; love, joy, faith, and peace are contagious, too. Which set of attitudes do you want people to "catch" from you? "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe." Phil. 2:13-15
H. Don't listen to negative chatter from the media all day long. Instead, find positive things to listen to and watch. A little news, a little TV, and a little Internet go a long way. It's not necessary to listen to repetitive news stories to know what's going on in the world. Nor, is it necessary to have the TV on all the time in order to be entertained. Be selective about what you read, watch, and listen to. Choose only the best.
I. Leave the things that belong to God to Him. Humbly follow through with what He has asked you to do:
"Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture." Psalm 37:1-3
J. Use your experiences to teach your children and younger women that God is faithful. If you are on the way to becoming an older woman, you have already faced many difficulties in life. You can look back and see where you responded well and where you made mistakes. You have had opportunities to see God's faithfulness in action. "I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread." Psalm 37:5 Children and younger women, on the other hand, may experience hardship for the first time. You can help by saying, "I remember when I was going through ________. This is how God helped me."
Every stage is a new stage, and every stage brings with it new challenges and new joys. I've been married almost 28 years, and I appreciate older women who are walking ahead of me on the road of faith.
We still have among us those who survived the Great Depression and World War II. Ask them how they handled things, and learn from them. Teach your children to respect them as well.
K. Train your children to live faithful, fruitful, joyful, and courageous lives.

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Bathroom getaway on a budget program:

Accomplished over the weekend:

A) Blew up photos -- not sure will use. May re-purpose artwork around the house, instead.
B) Found inexpensive bath pillow at Wal-Mart for guest bathroom. Someone gave me one as a present a while back, and I've been using it in my bath and loving it.
C) Added small quantities of medicines to my containers of little doo-dads and cosmetics.
D) Tucked away feminine supplies in guest bathroom
E) DH assembled white shelves with beadboard look to hang on our master bathroom wall. The shelves have doors, so it makes a nice place to hide away extra bathroom supplies.

For this week's Feminine Friday, I need your help.

My current feminine fun is re-doing my tiny little guest bathroom and my master bathroom to feel more like pretty spas/getaways. I don't have a whole lot to do to the master bathroom -- just a few touches. But, I'm really concentrating on the guest bathroom.

Since we're empty nesters with two open bedrooms, we have a lot of company. So, I want my guest bathroom to be inviting and also convenient. While I'm re-doing it, I'm thinking of my daughter and daughter-in-law for inspiration, but I would like all guests to enjoy the space. I don't want to overdo the frilly thing so much that our male guests, particularly my son and son-in-law don't feel comfortable. It's so fun, though, to make a feminine space for my two lovely daughters.

I'm also using a stay in a luxury hotel as inspiration. I took note of how they do things.

Oh, and my goal is to do this on a teeny budget.

This week I'm deciding which of several pictures I might enlarge and place in frames to put in the guest bathroom. I'm going to take down some wallies of light houses that I've had for eight or nine years and go with more of a spa theme.

So, please read the previous post and cast your vote for which two -- if any -- of the photos might work for my project.

Enjoy!
elizabeth

Getting dizzy? Sorry, I don't know how to rotate photos in Blogger. Bear with me, as I need your help in deciding which two photographs will grace the walls of my guest bathroom.








Help me decide which of these photos -- if any -- would look good enlarged and in frames in a small bathroom. I'm pressing onward with my "Thrifty Turn Bathrooms into Spa" projects.

I'm only planning to use a couple of photos -- It's a small bathroom! These were taken in Florida, but I don't want them to look "too obviously Florida". I'd like for people to imagine that they could be anywhere romantic and warm -- say on the Mediterranean or in South America, for example. I am looking for frames with a slightly "Old World" feeling.


I'm not the world's greatest photographer, so don't be afraid to say, "Back to the drawing board -- or, rather, back to the photo board for you. "


I have no idea how to rotate photos in Blogger, so please excuse the need to turn your head sideways to see some of them properly. Obviously, when I print them at the photo kiosk, I'll rotate them.



So, how about it? Vote for your favorite two!


Items accomplished so far:

1) Purchased two big white fluffy bath sheets for our master bathroom. I purchased them at Wal-Mart. There are more luxurious towels in the world, but these are nice to the touch and were a good price. DH loves big, over-sized towels. Our old towels are not as big and are getting a little ratty and faded looking. We have a lot of guests and are hard on towels. I have not purchased new ones in quite a while. I usually gravitate toward towels in pretty colors, but I believe that it's good to have a set of basic white on hand. They look fresh, go with anything, and generally wear well.
2) Purchased and put together a five tier chrome shelf for the smaller bathroom. Still deciding if the scale is right, though DH thinks it's ok. On those shelves, I've placed pretty containers with little necessities and luxuries, plus candles. Both my daughter and daughter-in-law love candles. I have several small packages of bath needs. I also placed a mineral soak for athletes so my son and son-in-law won't feel overwhelmed with all the girly stuff. I am going to fold some towels on the bottom shelves. That will make having a house full of guests a lot easier, as I now take out towels for each guest from my linen closet and distribute them. If people can just grab the off the shelves, I think it will be handier.

Still on the agenda: Buy bath pillow for guest bathroom. Someone gave me one for my birthday one year, and I use it still. I love it! Also, figure out a budget-friendly way to pipe soothing music into bathrooms or at least in bedrooms.

Topaztook left some great suggestions for turning my bathrooms into rooms that feel like spas on my last post about my bathroom project. If you're looking for ideas for your own bathrooms, you'll love her comments. I plan to re-read and implement some of her suggestions.

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Turning my upstairs bathrooms into a spa...

Dear Hubby's work recently took us to Florida, where we attended a conference in a luxury resort hotel with no choice of less expensive accommodations. This was a strain on the company budget, but a necessary and fruitful experience, nonetheless. Since we were there anyway, I took note of the hotel's service, decorations, table settings, etc. I was charmed by the soft lighting, the many paintings of Victorian ladies and seascapes, etc.

I came home with the idea of turning my guest bathroom into a spa for when my daughter and daughter-in-law or other guests visit. I hope my son and son-in-law and other male guests enjoy it as well. But, my goal is to have the bathroom stocked with all the little necessities and luxuries that women, in particular, enjoy without it being too frou-frou for the men. I also hope to do this on a budget. And, while I'm at it, I'm going to work on the master bathroom, as well.

To that end, I dragged home a put-it-together six-shelf chrome tier. The shelves are small. I had thought I might put it in the larger master bathroom, but, ironically, it fits in our tiny, tiny guest bathroom a little better. I'm not sure yet if it's going to be a little overwhelming, but we'll see. I decided that I would use it as a utility shelf in our storage space if it doesn't work for the bathroom.

I'm going to take out some old wallies of light houses that I've had in the guest bathroom for years. In it's place, I'm going to put photographs of a stucco fountain and some urns with lovely plants in them that I took myself. That bathroom has no windows, so I hope that the pictures of sunny locations will brighten things up a little.

I read an article about how to create a spa atmosphere in your bathrooms. It suggested the following: fluffy towels, a way to play soft music, soft lighting, and candles. Of course, those things come as no surprise.

I welcome any suggestions for my endeavor. When our children and children-in-love are home, they sort of gravitate towards our master bathroom. I want to make the guest bathroom more inviting. Right now, it's adequate, but it's the kind of place where you want to take your shower quickly and get out of there.

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

"Lipstick Jungle"

One aspect of our modern culture that is puzzling to me is that some women argue for a type of feminine "freedom" that actually enslaves and demeans women. You would think that feminism and Biblical womanhood would at least agree on one principle: that women are created in the image of God or, failing that, be in agreement that women possess all the worth accorded to a human being. Thus, you would think that both Christians and feminists would be in favor of teaching girls to respect each other and to behave in a way that inspires everyone to greater respect for women. Alas, in today's world, that is sometimes not the case.

In an article entitled "Lipstick Jungle", which appeared in the September 26th edition of the Wall Street Times, Ashely Samelson speaks of her fears when she helped move her 18-year old sister into a freshman dorm at Hillsdale College in Michigan. Ashleigh had experienced culture shock during her own stay at Tufts University in Medford Mass. She recounts meeting women who called each other degrading and obscene insults and also women who urged other women to participate in self-destructive and degrading behaviors.

Because children may read this blog, I won't outline just what horrors Ashleigh claims she witnessed or heard of on her campus. Suffice it to say, however, the behaviors were dangerous. These ways of acting, talking, and dressing also invited young men to look at women as merely forgettable partners in momentary pleasures. The conduct obscured men's view of women as honorable and fellow human beings.

Ashleigh notes that a male friend wrote her the following: "I, perhaps unconsciously, observe women to try and determine how they want to be treated. When I see girls at a party who seemingly have no self-control, I'll admit that it's really tough to visualize them as ladies. It's as if they, solely through their own actions;, have lowered my expectations, lowered my standards of behavior."

Now, one might ask what the young gentleman was doing at a party where the girls were exhibiting a loss of self-control. He might take responsibility for his own standards of behavior and search out friends -- both male and female -- who will inspire him to better things. Perhaps, he is looking for role models in the wrong places.

However, this young man does have a point. If women want to be treated as capable, virtuous, and honorable humans -- rather than as objects -- it makes no sense whatsoever to dress, act, and talk like objects. Licentiousness is freeing to no one -- male or female.

Ashleigh notes that she was so pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere on her sister's choice of campus. Hilldale, she says, is noted for attracting conservative and religious students. After walking around campus and talking to the women there, she realized that her sister was entering a healthier and happier college environment than she, herself, had experienced. The women talked of each other with respect.

Here's a telling comment: "The posters on the walls in my all-female freshman dorm at Tufts offered information about eating disorders, what to do if you think you have been sexually assaulted, and suicide and depression hot lines. The Hillsdale walls that I saw were covered with advertisements for quilting clubs, charity opportunities, and a listing of local churches."

She notes that at Patrick Henry College, where traditional marriage and family roles are emphasized, a large group of girls made a "No gossip pact" to refrain from slandering others. At Wheaton College, girls band together to pray for one another and to support each other in their struggles. In my opinion, it's no coincidence that in atmospheres where healthy values are encouraged, students exhibit healthy values. Of course, there are students at every educational institution who make wise choices and students who make unhealthy choices, so it still comes back to personal responsibility. Even so, our choice of mentors and friends does affect us.

I know from my own experiences as a college student three decades ago, that the seeds of the, "I'm going to be as morally and sexually liberated as any man on campus" were already growing. Alas, I found out the hard way that abandoning God's ways of doing things is liberating to no one. I met many young men and women who should have been enjoying their youth, but who were already wounded and scarred by participating in a party culture. Many were already deeply enslaved to self-destructive behaviors and addictions by the age of twenty. Is that a picture of freedom? I think not.

God gets blamed for many things in our society. It seems that people who know little about Christianity think that God has a double standard in which men are allowed to indulge every whim while women must always be ladies. In truth, God calls both men and women to holy, healthful, faithful, loving, and righteous conduct.

This, in itself, turns many people off, because godly self-control doesn't sound like much fun. Likewise, submission to a higher power doesn't play well in a world where everyone wants to be their own little "god". Yet, I and many others have learned that abandoning God's standards does not ultimately lead to freedom. True freedom is found only within the guidelines set by our Creator, the one who intimately knows and loves us better than we know our own selves.

Do you want to meet a man who treated both men and women with the utmost consideration, a man who elevated rather than demeaned women? As in everything, our Lord is the perfect example. In following Him, we learn how to conduct ourselves and how to love others. Women learn how to be friends and not competitors in self-destruction, and both men and women learn how to interact with respect and consideration.

On a side note: Perhaps, your child will go to college; perhaps not. Either way, at some point in life, he or she will encounter the world and its hollow philosophies. We need to prepare our children to have convictions that do not fold in the face of peer pressure and persecution. We must model for our children what it means to live as salt and light for a troubled world, and we must train our children to be salt and light, as well.

This is a matter that we cannot take for granted. Our children will make their own choices in life, and we are not always responsible for what course they take. However, we do want to set a strong foundation for their faith. Much as we would all like to shelter our children, we won't always be on hand to protect them. We must pass along convictions that will stand them in good stead when their faith is tried. To equip our children properly, we must depend on and trust in the Lord.

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Gas Shortage in Nashville

DH and I have flown from our home in TN to a business conference he is attending in Florida. So, I'm writing this in beautiful surroundings, where one can almost forget about local gasoline shortages we've been having in our city and also the economic troubles that are stirring up right now.

Meredith wrote an article about our local situation. I know that many other cities are experiencing shortages, but Nashville seems to be especially hard hit. I'd say that the majority of stations in our city have run out of gasoline. Those that do get in some gasoline experience long, long lines of people trying to get to the pumps. Nashville usually gets its supply of petrol from a certain pipeline that has been greatly affected by the past two hurricanes. The gas companies are diverting some supplies to TN to help us, but it's been a slow process.

As Meredith mentions, some experts chalk up much of our shortage to panic. I do believe that's true in Atlanta, where my son and his wife live. He told us that Atlanta is experiencing shortages only on the weekends, when people seem to panic about not having enough gasoline for the following week. However, he has had no trouble buying gas on weekdays.

I personally think that the shortages in Nashville are too widespread, too consistent, and too acute to be wholly from panic. I must say that the situation has brought out different attitudes in different people. The news reports about people who have hoarded gasoline by topping off their tank as often as they can and by filling up gas cans, as well. The majority of people I know, however, are actively trying to minimize their gasoline usage so that they are not taking someone else's share, and I suspect this is true of Nashvillians in general. For some reason, this doesn't make the news.

For those that haven't voluntarily changed their habits, many stations are imposing limitations on the amount of gas that can be purchased at any one time.

Experts say that the crisis will be over by the end of this week. So, by the time DH and I return to Nashville, things should have returned to normal -- at least as far as gasoline is concerned. As Meredith says, however, this is a wake up call, at least for me. If I am to reach my goal of being a good steward of our family's resources for our family's needs and to share with others, I do need to adapt to changing circumstances. I know the Lord will provide.

What about you? Has your area experienced shortages of any kind -- especially of gasoline? What prices, if any, have risen in your area? Have you noticed a change in your local economy and/or real estate market? What advice or concerns have you to share with us? I'd love to hear from you.

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Two Thoughts for the Keeper at Home:

If monotony tries me, and I cannot stand drudgery; if stupid people fret me and the little ruffles set me on edge; if I make much of the trifles of life, then I know nothing of Calvary love. Amy Carmichael

“If a sudden jar can cause me to speak an impatient, unloving word, than I know nothing of Calvary love, for a cup brimful of sweet water cannot spill even one drop of bitter water however suddenly jolted.”Amy Carmichael

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Fish Oil Friday...

I really wanted to post Feminine Friday, but our dear Barefoot Mama is taking a short blogging break due to computer issues. Fish Oil Friday just doesn't have that same "zing" does it? But, I do have a question about Fish.

DH and I have been taking enteric (sp?) coated fish oil tablets. They are the first ones I've found that we can take without having that fishy aftertaste. However, now that we're down to the end of the bottle, they are tasting fishier and I'm having some unpleasant reflux as a result. Since I also had a twenty-four hour stomach bug this week, I just am not ready to get back on the fish oil capsule habit yet. I will buy a fresh bottle and see if that helps.

Meanwhile, I bought a box of individually wrapped tilapia filets from Sam's or Wal-Mart a while back. They are quick and easy to cook. I prepared two last night in a non-stick pan and seasoned them with a multi-flavored seasoning salt. DH is not wild about fish, except for salmon or mahi-mahi on the grill. So, I only cook the tilapia from time to time and appreciate the ability to keep them in my freezer.

Apparently, tilapia does not give you the Omega 3 benefits that fatty fish -- such as salmon, tuna, etc. -- do.

But, I found this post from a nurse. The italics at the bottom are mine:

Q: Is tilapia one of the fish high in omega-3 fat?
A: No. Tilapia has only about one gram of fat altogether in a serving, unless you add more fat when cooking. Consequently, the amount of omega-3 fat in tilapia is much less than the amount in fatty fish like salmon, Atlantic mackerel, sea bass, rainbow trout, albacore tuna, herring and sardines. However, tilapia is still a good meal choice. It's a sweet, mild fish that is great for people who don't like a fishy taste. It's also wonderful when you want to use a flavorful sauce or seasoning that the fish won't compete with. You don't have to look for fish with high amounts of omega-3 fat, if you want to eat better. Simply having any kind of fish twice a week has been linked with health benefits.

Hmm...Is eating tilapia really as good for your health as eating the fish high in omega-3's? What do y'all think?

Do you take fish oil supplements? If so, have you found a fish oil supplement that you really like?

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Happy Happy Joy Joy Thanks Thanks...

We had a wonderful time at our son's wedding. Here's a photo of DS and his bride with their new wedding rings on. A lot of friends and family attended, and it was great to feel them surrounded by love as they started their new life together.

Budget Wedding tip: My new dear daughter-in-law planned a lot of her own wedding. Here's an idea that she came up with that I thought was clever. She and dear son had picked a historic house in a small southern town for their marriage venue. On one of the tables, she had placed a large bowl with some black mollie fish in them. The fish were striking and fit in with the black and white theme. Yet, they were an inexpensive touch. DS and DD-i-L are keeping the pets as fish, and someone is taking care of them until they get back from their honeymoon.

Budget Rehearsal Dinner Tip: I decorated the rehearsal dinner tables with photographs of my son and his bride to be. I found a lot of black frames on sale or at the dollar store, and I made the prints myself at the picture kiosk in Wal-Mart. I gave most of the frames and prints to family members who would treasure them. For inexpensive favors, I found favor boxes at Michael's and filled them with candy. I alternated these with candles in glass jars that I had picked up for $1.00 each, and a dear friend donated some beautiful handmade soaps which were tied with fresh herbs as a third favor.

Now, I'm going back to the Dollar Store and other places to collect more black frames and make black and white prints of our family weddings to place on a table with an arrangement and a lamp. The Dollar Store has frames in other colors as well. I'm using black to tie in with a theme.
Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Off to dear son's wedding tomorrow!

(Obviously, this is not a picture of my son and his fiancee, but a photo from the movie, "Sense and Sensibility". )

We're traveling to the city where my son and his fiancee are getting married, and we're bringing my 88 year old father with us. Since I am an only child, my children are his only grandchildren. So, he's quite proud of our son and heartily approves of his choice of bride. Despite some health issues, he wouldn't miss this for anything!

Our son is living and working in the city where I spent many of my growing up years. DH and I met and married there, but we have haven't lived there since. So, it's kind of fun to have a child who is getting married in the same place where DH and I started our love story. And, DH and I have lived for many years now in the town where my parents met and married! It's interesting how God weaves things together; isn't it?

Another happy connection is that my daughter's husband's family and my son's fiancee's family have known each other since before both of them were born. In fact, the two sets of parents used to joke about the possibility they might get married someday. Instead, they each married into our family:) So, we feel as if we have a very special bond with our new in-laws already!

We all have friends and families from several towns, including the one where we now live, who are traveling to the wedding this weekend. We're all looking forward to the festivities.

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Thrifty Tuesday

Since I needed to pick up some little treats for an upcoming family wedding, I visited the Dollar Store today. I haven't been in a while, which is probably a thrifty move on my part. While I do find some genuine gems on the shelves, I also feel the alluring temptation to buy stuff that I didn't know I needed until I saw it marked at the low price of only $1.00. The junky things whisper, "I'm only a dollar, only a dollar, only a dollar," and they congregate in my basket in enough numbers to put a serious dent in my weekly discretionary spending.

Having said that, I was pleased with my purchases today:

Bible CD's marked down to $.50. I picked up one that contains a section of the psalms and one that has the first half of Proverb to listen to in the car. I also bought the first 11 chapters of John for my daughter to listen to. Alas, they only have the KJV, but the reading is clear and well done, and it's a great way to sneak in a little Bible listening time.

Breathable garment and storage bags
tulle circles to wrap candles
Picture frames, of which I needed several for use at the dinner

I didn't buy any cards or gift bags today, though I find the Dollar Store to be a great resource for those things.

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Giving Honor to Whom Honor is Due and Teaching Your Children To Do So...

Have you ever struggled with giving the proper respect to someone whose role warrants it, but whose personal conduct doesn't -- at least in your opinion? Maybe, you had a hard time honoring a teacher who was boring or harsh or hypocritical. Perhaps, you've been tempted to disobey a parent, because you thought that you - in all of your young years -- had more wisdom about a certain matter. Or, maybe, the mention of a particular political leader's name gets your blood boiling, because you think he's damaging your city, your state, or your country. Or, you are certain that dear hubby is way off base in a particular way he's leading your family.

I think we've all had a moment or two when we've struggled with something this. In some cases, we deal with this because of our own prideful bent toward rebellion and wanting to be in control ourselves. In some cases, the person in question really is failing in their character or their duty. In some cases, both are true: the person in question is falling short and we are, too.

On the other hand, have you ever been in a position of leadership, only to find yourself the object of unjust criticism? Have you ever had people pick at your motives, your ability, and your judgment? Or, have you ever been in charge of pulling a group to work together in unity, when each person in the group has her own very strong opinions? If so, you have experienced the flip side of this leadership dilemma. You've probably longed for people to give you a little grace and to be grateful for the hard work you are doing, even if you aren't living up to everyone's expectations.

I have been thinking about this because of some blog comments I read recently. A particular author's work was under discussion. It was noted that this author often portrayed parents who were absent, indifferent, or otherwise flawed. Yet, the children in these books -- many of whom had their own set of weaknesses -- showed honor to their parents. They did so not necessarily because the parents deserved it in their own right, but because it was the honorable thing to do.

This also comes to mind because we are in an election year in the U.S.. In the past few years, we've seen people bash our country and our sitting president while abroad, and we've seen candidates bash each other. I'm grateful that in most cases the debate has been civil. Still, we've all seen how ugly politics can get.

Giving honor to whom honor is due out of respect for the person's role is somewhat foreign to our modern way of thinking. I remember a time when we had to help one of our children follow through with a teacher's assignments, even though the child could not see the point in doing them. To be honest, I don't remember whether or not the assignments themselves were all that helpful. However, our child needed to learn the valuable lesson that there is good discipline in following through with assignments. After all, we may not always understand why bosses, teachers, and other leaders ask us to do something. Yet, we shine when we obey with a cheerful and respectful attitude.

Now, I'm not saying that we should blindly follow someone just because that person has a certain position. Nor, am I saying that that we should agree to do something we believe is wrong. We need to have courage of conviction and teach our children to have the same when it comes to being asked to do something sinful or dishonest. After all, Paul said, "We must obey God rather than men."

If someone is abusing their position or is floundering because they are ill-equipped to fulfill their role, we may deem it necessary to do what we can to make the situation better. For example, we once removed our children from a school once because we felt that the atmosphere was harming our children. Other ways we might work with a difficult leader are to respectfully tell the truth about what we see, vote when applicable, pray for someone, talk things out, etc. Or, we may find that it's best to wait patiently. Discerning whether to act or wait takes prayer.

The key is our attitude. Attitudes that hamper us all are being judgmental, quick to criticize, stubborn, fearful, and uncooperative. Attitudes that benefit us all are respect, speaking truthfully yet wisely and kindly, cooperation, gratitude, and faith that God is ultimately at work for good. Our lives and the lives of our children are blessed when we give proper honor to parents and leaders.

Enjoy!
Elizabeth

Feminine Friday on Saturday!

Feminine bliss is finding the perfect shoe! I was searching for something to wear with this dress:


And, I found these shoes by Mudd:


I was really looking for something strappier and dressier, but I couldn't resist the bit of lace overlay on this pump, which goes with the lace overlay on the dress. Plus, I can wear these with many other items, both casual and dressy.

What do y'all think?

Enjoy!
Elizabeth