tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20884340769715208942024-03-05T20:36:33.488-05:00Confessions from a Mom on a Tight RopeRachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.comBlogger374125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-22753841977494673972012-09-14T09:00:00.000-04:002012-09-14T09:00:06.794-04:00IMPORTANT NEWS - Blog moving!!<br />
Hey readers,<br />
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I have decided to move my blog from Blogger to Wordpress. If you have been a follower through email then I have instructions for you to follow along...<br />
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Step 1- go to rachaelwalkup.wordpress.com and on the right you will see a "follow by email" box. You just need to type in your email address there. Then click follow.<br />
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Step 2 - It will give you a confirmation<br />
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Step 3 - Then you will get an email and you will need to click the "Confirm Follow" blue button.<br />
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Step 4 - This will take you to wordpress where you can decide what frequency you would like the updates to come to you. You can chose daily, particular days, immediate, etc.<br />
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If you have any questions at all. Let me know. Thank you for following along. See you at the new blog starting now!<br />
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<a href="http://rachaelwalkup.wordpress.com/">rachaelwalkup.wordpress.com</a>Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-56939042063961065622012-09-13T08:00:00.000-04:002012-09-13T08:00:06.064-04:00Thirsty Thursday - Forever ReignWe sang this song at church recently. I could hardly stand because I was so in awe of my Savior. Music always has a way of moving me. I just wanted to share with my readers too. The lyrics are below and so is a video of the song. Enjoy. <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/au3EGgISYMc" width="560"></iframe>
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You are good You are good<br />
When there’s nothing good in me<br />
You are love You are love<br />
On display for all to see<br />
You are light You are light<br />
When the darkness closes in<br />
You are hope You are hope<br />
You have covered all my sin<br />
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You are peace You are peace<br />
When my fear is crippling<br />
You are true You are true<br />
Even in my wandering<br />
You are joy You are joy<br />
You’re the reason that I sing<br />
You are life You are life<br />
In You death has lost it’s sting<br />
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[Chorus]<br />
Oh I’m running to Your arms<br />
I’m running to Your arms<br />
The riches of Your love<br />
Will always be enough<br />
Nothing compares to Your embrace<br />
Light of the world forever reign<br />
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You are more You are more<br />
Than my words will ever say<br />
You are Lord You are Lord<br />
All creation will proclaim<br />
You are here You are here<br />
In Your presence I’m made whole<br />
You are God You are God<br />
Of all else I’m letting go<br />
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[Repeat Chorus]<br />
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My heart will sing<br />
No other Name<br />
Jesus<br />
JesusRachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-19038902098443022312012-09-12T08:00:00.000-04:002012-09-12T08:00:15.841-04:00Wordless Wednesday - My Cambodian son<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-75659327781412076052012-09-10T08:30:00.000-04:002012-09-10T08:30:02.458-04:00Maniac Monday - Pork Tacos<br />
My family loves taco night. We have it most every week on Thursday. TACO THURSDAY! After a few weeks of having the same ole, same ole beef or chicken tacos. I decided to switch it up a bit. We've had fish tacos and shrimp tacos. But our favorite lately has been pork tacos. And this is a crock pot meal. It made enough to have lunch the next 2 days as well. For lunch, I served it over rice....Mmmmm!<br />
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<b>Here's what you need:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li> 2-3 lbs of pork shoulder roast</li>
<li> 2 cans of mild green chilis</li>
<li> 1 cup of beef broth</li>
<li> 1 medium onion, chopped</li>
<li> salt/pepper</li>
<li> 2 tbsp of cumin</li>
<li> 2 tsp of oregano</li>
<li> 1 tbsp of garlic, minced</li>
<li> a dash of olive oil</li>
</ul>
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<b>Instructions:</b><br />
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<ol>
<li>Cover the pork in salt and pepper and then brown on all sides in a hot pan. This should only take 5 minutes max. Note-this was the first time I've done this and it was so worth it. The pork ended up having crunchy edges after being cooked in the crock pot all day! This technique seals in the flavor.</li>
<li>Put the browned pork in the crockpot and slice some slivers in it. You will put the garlic into those slivers.</li>
<li>Mix the spices with the beef broth and then pour that over the meat.</li>
<li>Then put the top on and cook 8-9 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Once it's finished, you will shred up the pork and let it sit in the juice.</li>
<li> I fry up some corn tortillas and serve in them with fresh cilantro and raw onion on top.</li>
</ol>
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And if you like this recipe - feel free to share!<br />
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Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-61417844988276791102012-09-08T09:00:00.000-04:002012-09-08T09:42:11.808-04:00Saturday Stories - 4 Month Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfojKurYmzQl0iyFae5s1twUQSOgLljMTkSimzIVz5XKI8fVmPF_i7HE5xq4_17iA7zedhQkkzeALHM6UrU6zAiLJKYuGksOfKSXElrlNBeLJ5z1KKPKn3wI_Ii2PqLxQGtl03R99T2b4/s1600/4Months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfojKurYmzQl0iyFae5s1twUQSOgLljMTkSimzIVz5XKI8fVmPF_i7HE5xq4_17iA7zedhQkkzeALHM6UrU6zAiLJKYuGksOfKSXElrlNBeLJ5z1KKPKn3wI_Ii2PqLxQGtl03R99T2b4/s320/4Months.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<u>Feeding</u><br />
Selah just had a growth spurt. But most days she eats at 7, 11, 3, and 7. Sometime around dinner she gets a top off. But in a few weeks, I will replace that top off with some solid foods! I can't wait to start that adventure with her!<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Weight</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">I just weighed her yesterday and she is 13 lbs 12 oz. Love my big, growing girl!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Sleep</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well, she still isn't a great napper. She takes around an hour nap at 9:00 and usually a 1-2 hr nap at 1:00. Other than those naps, she is up all day. But she goes down every night at 7:00 pm and sleeps til 7:00 or 7:30 am. So that makes me happy. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Wake Time</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">Selah's wake time is getting to be so much fun. She is so happy - smiling and laughing. And just last week we starting putting her in the exersaucer. She loves it. She has some strong abs so I suspect she will be sitting any day now! She is rolling both ways - belly to back and back to belly.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Clothes</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">She is still wearing the 0-3 month clothes. She is looking cute in all her sweet dresses!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Fun fact </u></div>Selah has a brother, Finn who loves her so much. Every morning he runs out of his room just to kiss her. He always kissed the top of her head and says "Morning, Selah Graaaaacccce." It just melts my heart. Love how their relationship is starting to develop.Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-61865515636059118892012-09-06T09:00:00.000-04:002012-09-06T09:00:12.020-04:00Thirsty Thursday - Your Words<div style="text-align: left;">
Did you know that the tongue is the strongest muscle in your body? Well, it is. And it's a pretty strong for a reason. The tongue allows you to speak.<br />
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When I sit back and really think about that - I again am awed by the power of my creator. Words have the power to build up or to tear down. The bible talks about this a lot!</div>
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<i>"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." </i><i>—Ephesians 4:29</i><br />
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That verse is one of my favorites. It's very important to be self aware of how what you say matters. I try to keep a watch on people's body language while I'm talking. And I do make mistakes. But I am quick to apologize and learn for the next time. </div>
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So for you today - I remind you to watch what you say. And instead of tearing someone down - try building them up. Make a difference in someone else's day. </div>
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Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-26843152904601272572012-09-05T08:00:00.000-04:002012-09-05T08:00:07.411-04:00Wordless Wednesday - My girl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-82437406028041644502012-09-03T09:00:00.000-04:002012-09-03T09:00:07.964-04:00Maniac Monday - Meal PlanI thought the best way to start this week off is with another meal plan. Happy Labor day!<br />
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<b><u>Sunday </u></b><br />Worlds Best Chicken <br />http://rachelschultz.com/2012/07/11/worlds-best-chicken/<br />Broccoli and bacon roasted<br /><br /><b>Monday</b><br />Pork Tenderloin with pan sauce <br />http://chefmommy-brandao.blogspot.ca/2012/03/pork-tenderloin-with-pan-sauce.html<br />Roasted Brussel sprouts<br /><br /><u><b>Tuesday</b></u><br />BBQ Ribs in the Crockpot<br />http://www.mmmisformommy.com/2011/09/easy-barbecued-ribs.html<br />
Corn and green beans<br /><br /><b><u>Wednesday</u></b><br />Beef tacos and salad<br /><br /><b><u>Thursday</u></b><br />Garlic Herb Shrimp<br />http://www.cinnamonspiceandeverythingnice.com/roasted-lemon-garlic-herb-shrimp/<br /><br /><b><u>Friday</u></b><br />Chili<br />http://www.topsecretrecipes.com/wendys-chili-recipe.html<br /><br /><u><b>Saturday</b></u><br />Leftovers/Sandwiches<br /><br /><br />
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<br />Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-81245274940051004422012-09-01T22:02:00.001-04:002012-09-01T22:02:38.233-04:00Saturday Stories - A beehive?So my sweet son, Finn, turns 3 this month. That is just crazy to me. The past 3 years have gone by SO fast! Well, the conversations with him have been so funny lately. Last weekend as we were coming home from church we had one of my favorite talks so far. Hope it makes you laugh...<br />
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Mom: "So how was church, today?"<br />
Finn: "It was awesome"<br />
Dad: "What did you learn?"<br />
Finn: "About Jesus"<br />
Mom: "Oh, that's great Finn. Do you know where Jesus lives?"<br />
Finn" Yes, mommy."<br />
Mom: "Where?"<br />
Finn "A beehive" <i>(this was said with full confidence in his answer!)</i><br />
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After that, G and I couldn't stop laughing. Thanks Waumba Land! HA!<br />
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But on a serious note, Finn did tell us later that Jesus lives in his heart. So our church is making an impact on our almost 3 year old's heart. Grateful!<br />
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<br />Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-56850596726288073052012-08-30T06:02:00.000-04:002012-08-30T06:02:00.028-04:00Thirsty Thursday - Accepting<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Accept each day just as it comes to you. Do not waste your time and energy wishing for a different set of circumstances. Instead, trust Me enough to yield to My design and purposes. Remember that nothing can separate you from My loving Presence; you are Mine.</i></div>
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I read those words this morning and started crying. I don't just accept the day as it comes. Even though I don't really like the morning, I wake up running. Life is busy. This is a crazy season for my family. And I'm just being very transparent when I say - I love it and I hate it all at the same time. Two kids under the age of 3, work, marriage, friends, other family...wow - it's an exhausting time! But in the same breath, what sweet times this is. Selah is a precious baby and Finn is like a sponge learning so much every day.</div>
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So I want to be able to sit back and enjoy these times. I don't want to wish it away. I want to live in the moment. That is a constant struggle as the world reminds us how fast time goes by. Today, I want to encourage you to accept this day. And trust God to take you through it. To really live in the moment you have to live <i>by</i> the moment. </div>
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And most importantly - <i>Remember that nothing can separate you from My loving Presence; you are Mine.</i></div>
Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-4846337240088152802012-08-29T12:43:00.000-04:002012-08-29T12:43:00.182-04:00Wordless Wednesday - My best friend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJH8J4HZMPgyIOZBnr-nI6cV5iLmR3-LYq1olR6ZZRzyxzJPf7Z0hxDXFle2h5BPnmg2MWCVK5p5Hi00ZDJBvMYSrTXM-fDnw9MiMYPyUsLEECiibw6doa6m28jSYbqnGZtn6IOxyKjgA/s1600/IMG_4563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJH8J4HZMPgyIOZBnr-nI6cV5iLmR3-LYq1olR6ZZRzyxzJPf7Z0hxDXFle2h5BPnmg2MWCVK5p5Hi00ZDJBvMYSrTXM-fDnw9MiMYPyUsLEECiibw6doa6m28jSYbqnGZtn6IOxyKjgA/s400/IMG_4563.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-47087579506263808482012-08-27T07:00:00.000-04:002012-08-27T07:00:19.645-04:00Maniac Monday - Meal PlanHappy Monday!<br />
Today, I thought I would share my meal plan for this week with you...Enjoy and share with others :)<br />
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<strong>Sunday 8.26</strong></div>
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Chicken and Roasted Broccoli</div>
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<a href="http://eatlivepaleo.com/2012/01/18/spicy-lemon-paprika-chicken-thighs/">http://eatlivepaleo.com/2012/01/18/spicy-lemon-paprika-chicken-thighs/</a></div>
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<a href="http://nomnompaleo.com/post/1626061164/roasted-broccoli-bacon-recipe">http://nomnompaleo.com/post/1626061164/roasted-broccoli-bacon-recipe</a></div>
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<b style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.00390625);">Monday 8.27</b></div>
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Whole Chicken in the Crockpot with fruit (cooks on low for 8 hrs, I add sea salt, pepper, paprika, olive oil, fresh thyme, and garlic)</div>
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<strong>Tuesday 8.28 - HAPPY BIRTHDAY G!</strong></div>
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Salsa Verde Steak in the Slow Cooker with a cucumber/tomato salad</div>
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<a href="http://eatathomecooks.com/2009/12/salsa-verde-steak-in-the-slow-cooker.html">http://eatathomecooks.com/2009/12/salsa-verde-steak-in-the-slow-cooker.html</a></div>
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<strong>Wednesday 8.29</strong></div>
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PF Chang Lettuce Wraps</div>
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<a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2011/04/26/p-f-changs-lettuce-wraps-remade/">http://iowagirleats.com/2011/04/26/p-f-changs-lettuce-wraps-remade/</a></div>
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<strong>Thursday 8.30</strong></div>
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TACO NIGHT!!!!</div>
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<strong>Friday 8.31</strong></div>
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Leftovers</div>
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<strong>Saturday 9.1</strong></div>
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Grilling time - Hamburgers/Hot dogs on the grill!</div>
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Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-68151042667003720902012-08-23T10:30:00.000-04:002012-08-23T10:30:01.671-04:00Thirty Thursday - Who do you serve?<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"Everything I do and say tells a story of who I serve."</i></div>
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This Thursday, I would love for you to take a look at your week. How has it been? What have you been up to? How have you spent your time? As you answer those questions - think about the above quote - "Everything you do and say tells a story of who you serve." </div>
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So who do you serve?</div>
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I'm striving to live a life that points to Jesus. I hope you see Him in what I do and what I say. </div>
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<br />Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-47179177700333511152012-08-22T07:42:00.000-04:002012-08-22T07:42:00.757-04:00Wordless Wednesday - Love my family<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcPxggzPWF2ugPNZMH7O3mLE5wNkEWoIySM0IFv_xXfB31rhGBi6dKJfHQICzzQtxte6dKhyphenhyphenmwGisgLv1QG9HwsBpzj-P8KRYRlHyP_T5K7LDmr8_Rvqh79DXNJ9xiB5nREm_P5e__PXo/s1600/IMG_4552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcPxggzPWF2ugPNZMH7O3mLE5wNkEWoIySM0IFv_xXfB31rhGBi6dKJfHQICzzQtxte6dKhyphenhyphenmwGisgLv1QG9HwsBpzj-P8KRYRlHyP_T5K7LDmr8_Rvqh79DXNJ9xiB5nREm_P5e__PXo/s320/IMG_4552.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-46818205986569912112012-08-20T08:00:00.000-04:002012-08-20T08:00:03.104-04:00Maniac Monday - TimeAs this week begins, I want to share with you how I start my crazy weeks. Our time is precious. I strive to make sure the first minutes of my day are given to the Lord. This exercise sets up my day - every day. This Jesus Calling devotional was perfect for me to share with you. I pray as you read this you will be able to reflect on how you are spending your time.<br />
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<i>Bring Me the sacrifice of your time: a most precious commodity. In this action-addicted world, few of My children take time to sit quietly in My Presence. But for those who do, blessings flow like streams of living water. I, the One from whom all blessings flow, am also blessed by our time together. This is a deep mystery; do not try to fathom it. Instead, glorify Me by delighting in Me. Enjoy Me now and forever!</i></div>
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<i>Surely you have granted him eternal blessings and made him glad with the joy of your presence.</i></div>
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<i>—Psalm 21:6</i></div>
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<i>“Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.”</i></div>
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<i>—John 7:38</i></div>
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<i>For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him.</i></div>Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-66733151347733479822012-08-18T08:43:00.000-04:002012-08-18T08:43:00.232-04:00Saturday Stories - Three Month Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuUiwUxZn569iHUR325SdHpyM-xEEfCu-O8w1dyCGEW9yqiYGIwEsFath-KgmuNLeUURjbKQ9MdShEIHy175RCdw8KLX2CXVqSrIYoi6aqJoE-A9x5CldEsSXd578sj0tvAA35oXhSNN8/s1600/Selah-3Months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuUiwUxZn569iHUR325SdHpyM-xEEfCu-O8w1dyCGEW9yqiYGIwEsFath-KgmuNLeUURjbKQ9MdShEIHy175RCdw8KLX2CXVqSrIYoi6aqJoE-A9x5CldEsSXd578sj0tvAA35oXhSNN8/s400/Selah-3Months.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Feeding </b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Selah is eating every 3 1/2 hours. She started school 4 weeks ago. She gets two feedings there. One is a bottle and I nurse her for the other one. She is still struggling with reflux. Lots of spit up. But doc said all is good because she is gaining weight. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Weight</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">I just weighed her yesterday and she was 12 lbs 5 oz.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Sleep </b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">We have finally conquered nighttime sleep with God's help. After lots of prayer over here and adjusting my thoughts...Selah is consistently sleeping from 8 pm to 7 am. As of last week, she has been consistently taking one 2 1/2 nap a day! YAY :)</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Wake Time</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Selah has started to grab at her toys. I just love that. She is smiling and trying to talk. She absolutely loves to have someone sit next to her and just talk to her. I'm starting to see she is an extrovert. If I put her in the swing and we are in the other room, she cries until we come over or bring her to us. She just wants to be with the fam. That's my girl!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Clothes </b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">She is wearing the 3 month clothes now. Man, it's so fun dressing a little girl!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Fun fact </b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">Selah's name means <i>to pause or reflect upon</i>. And her middle name is Grace. So basically we are saying <i>to pause or reflect on God's grace</i>.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Mommy</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">I'm doing ok. It's very hard getting into the routine of working. That's all I have to say about that right now. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #383838; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-3659097287591115142012-08-16T10:49:00.000-04:002012-08-16T10:49:00.582-04:00Thirsty Thursdays - Responses<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Lately, I have been learning about how to respond as a Christ follower. In my Proverbs 31 Ministry devotion there was a great exercise that I just had to share.</span></div>
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<tr><td valign="top"><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 24px;">Use this formula for studying God's word:<br /><em><strong>Receive</strong> God's Word</em> ... write out the verses you want to focus on.<br /><em><strong>Retain</strong> God's instruction</em> ... memorize and internalize the truths you've been studying.<br /><em><strong>Reflect</strong> God's character</em> ... in both action and reactions. Focus on practicing the truths you've been learning.</span></td></tr>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">(c) 2012 by Lysa TerKeurst </span></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If I follow that instruction how will my thoughts and actions be changed? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Receiving...retaining...reflecting...</span>Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-84036700714992285402012-08-15T08:15:00.000-04:002012-08-15T08:15:00.682-04:00Wordless Wednesday - Sweet smiles!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-62254623233865837352012-08-13T07:18:00.000-04:002012-08-13T07:18:00.179-04:00Maniac Monday - Your Purpose<div style="text-align: left;">
A friend of mine recently posted a quote on twitter that knocked me off my feet. Since then, I have read it over and over. I even added it to my email signature. I wanted to share it here to because my prayer is it hits you like it hits me. </div>
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<i>"It's impossible to be satisfied with existence once you've tasted purpose."</i></div>
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Let that sink in.</div>
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Ok, one more time...</div>
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<i>"It's impossible to be satisfied with existence once you've tasted purpose."</i></div>
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Incredible, right? Once you have felt true purpose you will not stand at <b>just</b> existence. So my thought provoking question for you this crazy Monday is...</div>
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What is your purpose? I've found mine and I will not let a day go by where I <b>just</b> exist. </div>Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-90045903264746925872012-08-11T08:30:00.000-04:002012-08-11T08:30:02.634-04:00Saturday Stories - Best Friends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I thought this was an awesome conversation and I had to document it...<br />
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Me: (Hugging G and looking at Finn) "I love daddy"<br />
Finn: "Oh, he's your best friend, mommy?"<br />
Me: "Yes, he's my best friend"<br />
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How sweet! Glad to know that what G and I model is rubbing off on Finn. He sees us and knows we are best friends. I love that!<br />
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<i>"The best thing you can do for your kids is have a great marriage"</i></div>Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-39068116445670422232012-08-09T13:31:00.000-04:002012-08-09T13:31:00.542-04:00Thirsty Thursdays - DoubtI got this devotion in my email and it really touched my heart. Hope it speaks to you as well...<br />
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<a href="http://reneeswope.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Discouraged-Woman.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3439" height="320" src="http://reneeswope.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Discouraged-Woman.jpg" title="Discouraged Woman" width="219" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #993300;"><em>“What, then, shall we say in response to these things?<br />
If God is for us, who can be against us?”</em> Romans 8:31 (NIV)</span></div>
<strong>Have you ever felt beat up by discouragement? Has your mind been bullied by thoughts of doubt such as:</strong><br />
<em>I can’t do it all! </em><br />
<em>I am not cut out to be a wife, a mom, a daughter, a _______, a _____ and all the other things God has called me to.</em><br />
In my Proverbs 31 devotion today, I share how I felt bullied by doubt one morning when I woke up. My thoughts were completely <em>against me,</em> and my feelings were too.<br />
While I was laying in bed feeling completely inadequate, my radio
alarm came on and my thoughts were interrupted by Twila Paris singing to
me.<br />
With confident assurance, she told me it was no time for fear, but a
time for faith and determination. She challenged me not to lose my
vision or be carried away by my emotions, but to hold on to all that I
had hidden in my heart, and all I believed to be true. Then she reminded
me of the most important truth of all: <em>God is in control</em>. [1]<br />
Her words aligned my thoughts with God’s truth, and I went from
feeling afraid to feeling determined and from feeling out of control to
knowing God is in control.<br />
<strong>We have the choice either to let doubt beat us up or to let God’s truth build us up.</strong><br />
I had set my radio to that station the night before so I would wake
up hearing encouraging music and truth. Just like I intentionally set
the dial of my radio alarm, we need to get intentional about tuning our
thoughts into God’s thoughts toward us – every day.<br />
In the same way a radio has AM and FM frequencies, so do our
thoughts. They are either AM (against me) or FM (for me) thoughts. The
truth is, we are often our worst critics and have a lot of AM thoughts.<br />
<strong>If our thoughts are against us, our feelings will be too, BUT we don’t have to let doubt bully us anymore.</strong><br />
<blockquote>
We have full access to God’s power and His promises to
live with a confident heart. Yet it won’t just happen because it’s
possible.<em> We have to take action.</em><br />
So, the next time we get feelings of uncertainty and self-doubt,
let’s stop and ask the Holy Spirit to show us what we’re thinking that
is making us feel that way. Then let’s compare our thoughts about that
situation to God’s thoughts, which are reflected in Scripture.<br />
Do they match? If not, find a promise in God’s Word to replace the
lie that has filled your heart with doubt. Here are few to get your
started:<br />
• When doubt comes against me, saying I’m weak and all alone, I will
focus on the truth that God is for me! I can be strong and courageous
because the Lord my God is with me. He will never leave me nor forsake
me. (Deuteronomy 31:6, NIV)<br />
• When doubt comes against me, saying I’m not good enough for a
certain role or position, I will remember that God is for me! He says I
am His masterpiece, created to be new in Christ so that I could do good
things He planned long ago. (Ephesians 2:10, NIV)</blockquote>
<em>Lord, thank You that You are with me to fight for me against my
enemies of insecurity and inadequacy. In all these things, I am more
than a conqueror through You who loves me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.</em><br />
<h5>
[1] “God Is In Control,” © 1993 by Twila Paris.</h5>
<h5>
© 2012 by Renee Swope. All rights reserved.</h5>Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-17279619190503157922012-08-08T13:30:00.000-04:002012-08-08T13:30:02.275-04:00Wordless Wednesdays - My little man<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtfPdG8hgpzKM_cy5ZO9Wz7EM0ff6rHqd-1pgnZcF12-XLP_MC8G8ivSXSGqS-hev8Rmu8ADb1wvjuEfEChzztJ2EjE05rXaOpIHPfKPmhoAy9FfbbCmiyBFyTUUh5QwBnrsHML5jfQM/s1600/IMG_0436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtfPdG8hgpzKM_cy5ZO9Wz7EM0ff6rHqd-1pgnZcF12-XLP_MC8G8ivSXSGqS-hev8Rmu8ADb1wvjuEfEChzztJ2EjE05rXaOpIHPfKPmhoAy9FfbbCmiyBFyTUUh5QwBnrsHML5jfQM/s400/IMG_0436.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-41155446374823972242012-08-06T07:28:00.000-04:002012-08-06T07:28:00.240-04:00Maniac Monday - Meal PlansFor those of you that know me, I am structured. I thrive on it. For the most part, I don't like disorder. I like things to run smoothly. Dinnertime is no different. I write up a meal plan for the week, every week. It helps me stay sane on days I have to work outside the home. When I get home, dinner is typically ready (if made in crockpot) or ready to cook because I have prepped it beforehand.<br />
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Recently I found this amazing website - http://eatathomecooks.com/<br />
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If you need help structuring you meals, grocery lists, recipes, etc this is the site to use! I have made a lot of the recipes and they all have been delicious. Enjoy!<br />
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You're welcome :)Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-29866612569549939042012-08-04T08:00:00.000-04:002012-08-04T08:00:02.084-04:00Saturday Stories - Still Can't Believe it!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0c5_PHpKensWxtAjewseOWpzzv7aZRXVsFiWQiewL2DYA_Es28xBWWeAC7hOnBhhOQqCjwKeYs3cIPg-LHUNdKk2fWHz1nNTQUbAJ1I4D-KxbgUxC5So45FN_NBYkGGj97NM_8iIbPUk/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0c5_PHpKensWxtAjewseOWpzzv7aZRXVsFiWQiewL2DYA_Es28xBWWeAC7hOnBhhOQqCjwKeYs3cIPg-LHUNdKk2fWHz1nNTQUbAJ1I4D-KxbgUxC5So45FN_NBYkGGj97NM_8iIbPUk/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I look at this picture and my eyes fill up with tears. Almost three months and I still can't believe I have a daughter. All the months of throwing up, 24/7 nausea, not sleeping, and back hurting were all worth it! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6PBaml_TCSVCPMNhBe8RpE37eoymR3x1RBFH1akNpHj-WNtqtD4T4Fv7Clx5Q4cCXW7OYlVIzjVq9GTUk0C5nZ-BVDELrBOdXx48B0UJsp3JGF3ACM4ab4XylbvAKlIQyWifZM_WYOnA/s1600/001_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6PBaml_TCSVCPMNhBe8RpE37eoymR3x1RBFH1akNpHj-WNtqtD4T4Fv7Clx5Q4cCXW7OYlVIzjVq9GTUk0C5nZ-BVDELrBOdXx48B0UJsp3JGF3ACM4ab4XylbvAKlIQyWifZM_WYOnA/s320/001_1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is my mommy with her little girl (me)!</div>
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And then here's me with my little girl, Selah!</div>
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This is me as a newborn</div>
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And here's Selah</div>
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<br />Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2088434076971520894.post-61683807121347440912012-08-01T06:15:00.000-04:002012-08-01T06:29:27.669-04:00New blog structure!So I have been thinking about what I want this blog to be lately. And here is what I came up with...<br />
<br />
1- A record of my family.<br />
2- A place to share ways/devotions to bring others closer to my Heavenly father.<br />
3- An attempt to teach others what I have been learning.<br />
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So with that being said, I've decided about doing <i>themed</i> days. So starting next week you can expect to get 4 posts a week from me. Hope you enjoy!<br />
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<b>Maniac Monday</b> (used to share recipes, meal plans, advice on organizing your home)<br />
<b>Wordless Wednesday</b> (used to reflect on the blessings in my life, without words)<br />
<b>Thirsty Thursdays</b> (used to share devotions or verses that have spoken to me)<br />
<b>Saturday Stories</b> (used to share a fun story or sweet moment from my family)<br />
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Rachael Walkuphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08526861487855801579noreply@blogger.com0