Faithbooking

Faithbooking Blog has moved!

2007-05-15T12:10:00.001-06:00

The faithbooking blog has been moved. You can see all the current blog posts found here as well as any new blog posts from May 15, 2007.

New blog is located at: http://www.FaithfullyYours.net

If you are already signed up to receive blog updates, you will continue to do so. Thank you!

Faithfully,

Dawn

Scrapbooking with Transparencies

2007-05-11T07:43:00.000-06:00

Transparencies are clearly a hot and fun addition to our scrapbooks! You can find full size 12x12 transparencies which often make putting a layout together a breeze, simply add photos and journaling and you are done. Transparencies are also available in 4x6 frames and many other sizes.

Are you wondering how to attach transparencies to your layout? Sabrina Tolbertson offers some tips and ideas at http://www.faithfullyyours.net/Scrapbooking-with-Transparencies.html.

Now available in the Faithfully Yours store...

*Beautiful, horizontal 4x6 frame

For those of you who answered the questions to my "faithbooking help" plea, I promised you a free 4x6 transparent frame. Please visit the store and email me with your choice of frame and address. If you would like to place an order, put your choice in the comments section and I'll include it with your order. Thank you!

Faithfully,

Dawn

Blessings Contest Winner

2007-05-01T09:33:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to Sherry Green for winning the Blessings Contest!

The greatest joy in my life here on earth is FAMILY! God has so richly blessed me with a wonderful, loving husband, Ben. He treats me like a queen and truly is my prince Charming. After 7 years of marriage, losing a child during the fifth month of pregnancy, and many more years of not beingable to conceive, God allowed us to adopt a beautiful daughter, Cynthia Joy, then son-in-law, Dennis. Now my true joy is being a grandmother to Denny, Jacob and Michaela. They never fail to make me smile and thank God for this privilege.

And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them, and blessed them. Mark 9:42

You can see all the entries for the Blessings Contest in the Faithfully Yours gallery. The gallery has a new look too. Come check it out, upload, share and be inspired!

Faithfully,

Dawn

Satan doesn't like faithbooking

2007-04-27T09:36:00.001-06:00

I have come to the conclusion that satan doesn't want us glorifying God in our faithbooks. Why?

I can't upload the "Blessings" layouts from the contest to the gallery.
I can't open the program that I use to build/update Faithfully Yours.
I have experienced numerous problems to the shopping cart.

However, I am persevering...

Based on my research, if I upgrade the gallery the upload issue will be resolved. So now I have to find someone to do that. Then I will upload to the gallery and notify you of the wonderful layouts I have received for the contest along with the winner!
I have a support ticket in for the site program and hopefully my dh can help when he gets home from work.
The shopping cart support has fixed the problem, however the current availability may or may not be correct. The girls have been helping me count and take inventory so you can be sure what you see as available is correct. (still in the works) After God's blessing Faithfully Yours with orders, I really didn't enjoy emailing customers stating an item was out of stock. I appreciate your patience and understanding!

In the meantime, I thought I would share a layout from the Blessings contest by design team member Sabrina Tolbertson.

(click for larger view)

Scripture:

because of your father's God, who helps you, because of the Almighty, who blesses you, with blessings of the heavens above, blessings of the deep that lies below, blessings of the breast and womb. Genesis 49:24

Faithfully,

Dawn

Faithbook Contest

2007-04-22T13:48:00.000-06:00

Are you blessed? I hope you answered "Yes!" I would love to see your layouts documenting your blessings. Here are some ideas to get you going...

Title Ideas:
Blessings
My Blessings
I am Blessed
So blessed

Supporting verses:

because of your father's God, who helps you, because of the Almighty, who blesses you, with blessings of the heavens above, blessings of the deep that lies below, blessings of the breast and womb. Genesis 49:24

All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God. DT 27:23

I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings. 1Cor 9:23

Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.
Psalm 32:1

Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. Psalm 34:8

Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust Psalm 40:4

Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD. Psalm 89:15

And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them. Mark 9:42

Sketch idea:

Contest details:

Send your layout to info@FaithfullyYours.net along with journaling, materials used and any special techniques used.

Deadline: April 26, winner to be annouced in Faithful Friday post

Prize: $20 shopping spree in Faithfully Yours store

***Entries will be shared in a faithbooking quick start guide or on Faithfully Yours website.

Hurry, only a few days for this contest. Good luck and have fun!

Faithfully,

Dawn

Layout share + 26 new items added to FY Store

2007-04-20T05:29:00.003-06:00

Yesterday I was blessed to have a girlfriend come over and scrap! It has been awhile and it felt good! Here was the outcome:

(click image for larger view)

Celebrating Kori's 2nd birthday in Kansas City with family and fun!

What made this layout spread nice is I was able to use alot of photos and minimal supplies. I used Be Blessed Scrapbooking's Celebrate and Delight patterned papers for the background. Then I simply added scraps of cardstock to add a little color and dimension. I used a pinwheel flower punch for the bows on my "gifts". The layout didn't require much journaling, so I chose to incorporate scripture verses about gifts from God.

Journaling:
Thanks be to God for his undescribable gift! 2 Cor 9:14-15

For it is by grace you hae been saved, through faith-and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God Eph 2:7-9

26 New items added to the Faithfully Yours Store:

21 patterned papers by Be Blessed
3 rub-ons by Be Blessed
2 tag sheets by Be Blessed

4 items back in stock:

To Train a Child by Be Blessed
Rejoice (Easter) by Be Blessed
Strength & Guidance by Be Blessed
Jesus Loves the Children by Crossed Paths

Faithfully,

Dawn

2007-04-13T05:07:00.000-06:00

Journaling block:
Patiently EndureOur lives are rollercoasters. We experience moments on the mountain tops and moments in the valleys. Even in times of trial, we experience ups and downs. At one point, you may feel "strong" in your faith and trust in God to pull you through. His will be done, no matter what even if it isn't what you really want. And then there are those times when, dare I say, you are angry with God. You feel He is not near, isn't answering your prayers(or fast enough), doesn't care about you and your situation or is just too busy for you. It is in these times when your faith is being tested and you must stand strong. It is also in these times that I start to take matters in my own hands. I simply cannot wait any longer and so I set out to "fix" it. But what usually happens? I make things worse. Perhaps my quick fix isn't in God's timing, or the other person involved or not the right solution according to God. Someone once told me, "you have to give it to God. Just keep it to Him." All I thought was "Yeah, but..." During one of these times I started reading my Bible and was led to 2 Peter 2:9 "if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgement, while continuing their punishment." Ok, I'm starting to feel a little better, perhaps some relief around the corner...upon further reading I found Revelation 3:10 "Since you have kept my command to endure patiently," wait stop right there. Endure patiently. Two things I do not particularly care for. Endure meaning to suffer without yielding, to bear without resistance. And patience! Eight years ago when I prayed for patience I got pregnant with my third daughter and I have been learning ever since! Or have I? I have to constantly remind myself to be patient if I expect God to do a good work in me. When will I learn? Let's finish the verse, Revelation 3:10 "Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth."

Journaling Strips:
God is in control. My patience is shortest when I am not in control. Believe with all your heart that God the creator and sustainer of all things knows what He is doing.

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16

During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered Hebrews 5:7,8

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28...not saying its going to be "all good" but in what is best for us-for our ultimate good.

Have you ever considered doing a layout without photos? It was a challenge, but fun. Here are more ideas on scrapbooking without photos.

Materials used in layout:
Fun Love digital kit by Melissa Rose
Misc. digital elements
Transparency (coming soon...)

Faithfully,

Dawn

Becoming a Woman of Joy

2007-04-11T07:01:00.000-06:00

Becoming a Woman of Joy book and journal back in stock!!!

Plus a new "Seasons" kit by Inspirational Memories.

Stop by the Faithfully Yours store today and check out the new items recently added. As a way of saying "thank you" for being a loyal reader, please use voucher code Thanks and receive 15% off your order!

Faithfully,

Dawn

60 New Items added to the Faithfully Yours Store

2007-03-30T07:05:00.000-06:00

Yes, I went crazy shopping. 60 new items from Inspirational Memories by Brownlow Gifts!

11 Patterned Papers-12x12, only .25 each! I was skeptical at first, but pleasantly surprised when I found these are not cheap papers, but almost like cardstock!

Baby Boy
Baby Girl
Spring
Summer
Patriotic
School/Wisdom
Sportsmanship
Family
Friendship
Faith, Hope, Love
Travel/Postcards

17 Double Page Layouts:Left and Right sides, beautifully coordinate!

Love One Another
Athlete
This Child Boy
This Child Girl
Sea
Birthday
Commitment to the Lord
Easter
Jesus Loves the Children
In Memory
Make Music
Whole Earth
Two Become One
School Days
Girlfriends
Grandchildren
Fruit of the Spirit

12 Scripture Stickers: at .80 each, you'll want to stock up!

Beauty
Sports
Easter
God's Word
Comfort
New Day
Helping
Household
Joy
Love
Peace
Marriage

2 Kits: 6 12x12 theme papers, 4 8.5x11 cardstock, ribbon with sentiment, stickers and 8 4x4 vellum quotes all for $7.00!

Becoming a Woman of Joy book and journal: Book back in stock and the journal is new!

Stop by the store today and check out all the new items just added! Use voucher code Blog and receive 20% off your order! But hurry, this is for a limited time only!

Faithfully,

Dawn

Scrapbook Layout by Anna Crandall

2007-03-29T05:51:00.000-06:00

Designer Spotlight: Anna Crandall

(click image for larger view)

"I added a strip of pink paisly paper from CM to add a splash of color, and cut out the "Charlie's Angel's" silhouette from a sample I got off the site, with my own rendition of a forth Angel. Also, if you look closely, one Angel is pregnant! Hope you like it."-Anna

Materials used: Eternal Black Tie Paisley

Adding color to the black and white, really makes the layout "pop". I believe this layout is from the scrapbooking retreat Anna recently attended and wrote an article about. If you missed her article, you can read it here:

Scrapbooking Retreats Article

You can view more great layouts by Anna in the Faithfully Yours gallery.

Faithfully,

Dawn

Remembering God through Nature

2007-03-23T06:14:00.000-06:00

As I've mentioned before, remembering God in the everyday, is something I hold dear to my heart. Today I would like to share an idea for remembering God through nature. A faithful member, Laura, has issued a "Something in Nature" challenge in the Faithfully Yours forum.

Laura has done a great job in explaining just how you can incorporate "God in Nature" in your scrapbooks.

Begin by finding photos from nature, animals(no people), vacation scenery, your flower garden, etc.

Look at the photo, what is it "saying" to you? What scripture comes to mind?

Layout by Laura

Journaling:

Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. - Hebrews 11:1

Fall on Evensville Mountain shows evidence of God's art. Fall 2006

"For many, these photos are part of a vacation, but look beyond the photo you hold in your hand and look into the photo. What do you see? You see the very hand of God and what He created in all of HIS infinite wisdom, power, and glory. Those trees, those animals, those flowers, even the very sky, grass, dirt, etc. were all created by HIS Most wonderful power and majesty. HE is worthy to be praised! Praise The Creator in your scrapping! Future generations as well as those loved ones of yours now need to know of HIS Glory. "-Laura

Above is just one sample, visit the forum for more page ideas, title ideas and sharing with others! Thank you Laura.

Faithfully,

Dawn

God Stories

2007-03-14T11:54:00.000-06:00

Recently I shared an article I found about remembering your God Stories. If you missed it, you can read it at http://www.FaithfullyYours.net/God-Stories.html

In the article, the author Jill Savage, discussed how she remembers God Stories with a shadow box displayed in her home. We, scrapbookers, remember God through our scrapbooks. I would like to encourage you to remember God in your everyday life. What has God done for you today?

In the God Moment Principle by Alan Wright, he mentions five kinds of God Moments:

Amazing Rescue-a time when God rescued you or provided a way out
Holy Attraction-a moment when God enabled you to resist tempation or led you down a better path
Unearned Blessing-a moment when God gave you an unearned blessing
Revealed Truth-a moment when God spoke to you through His word, inner peace or a message
Valuable Adversity-a moment God sustained you in a difficult time or made you stronger through a trial

I invite you to visit the Forum and share your God Moments/God Stories with others. I would also love to see scrapbook layouts documenting one of your God Moments. Or even a project, like the shadow box in the above mentioned article. If you have a photo to share, please email me and I will feature it here on the blog or an upcoming Faithful Friday. Thanks for reading.

Faithfully,

Dawn

Dawn@FaithfullyYours.net

Faithbook Layout by Sabrina Tolbertson

2007-03-07T08:10:00.000-06:00

Designer Spotlight: Sabrina Tolbertson

I used my favorite engagement photo for this layout. I love this verse and was I was so happy when it was included on the patterned paper by Crossed Paths. I cut up the paisley shapes (also Crossed Paths) and arranged them in a heart shape around my photo and enhanced the design with adhesive gems by EK Success.The metal "To have and to hold" embellishment is made by Making Memories. Saying by Crossed Paths.

You can view more great layouts by Sabrina and others in the Faithfully Yours gallery.

Scrapbook Challenge-ABC

2007-03-02T08:15:00.000-06:00

If you have visited the forum recently, you are aware of an ABC scrapbook challenge going on. Each week we will be focusing on a new letter. This is a great challenge to work on with your kids or do yourself. Customize it to suit your needs and wants to get what you need out of it and bring you closer to God.

I, as usual, have fallen behind, but am now caught up. Yeah! I decided to do the challenge a little differently to best suit me. A little background...a while ago our family went out to eat and had to wait to be seated. With a large family it is sometimes difficult to get seated quickly and we were already hungry. To help pass the time, Katlynn came up with a game. We tried to come up with as many words as we possibly could starting with the letter "A" that are biblical in nature. Once we felt we had fully exhausted the possibilities with A, we moved on to B and so forth. This continued on while we waited for our food and in the van on the way home. It was a lot of fun and a great distraction! So, I decided to do this challenge as a family effort. We all sat down and brainstormed the words, then each child got to decorate their own letter. Here are are first four letters...

A by Kori, age 5.
B by Katlynn, age 12.
C by Kelsey, age 10.
D by Kimi, age 8.

I hope you enjoyed the first four letters on our journey. Stay tuned with more...I intend to compile these into a paperbag album and include the background story. I'll post pictures when it is ready.

Don't forget to visit the forum for more details on the challenge and the gallery for more samples from faithful members!

Faithfully,

Dawn

Blessings Tag

2007-02-15T21:47:00.000-06:00

Today I will be spotlighting a member-Shari Dover. She uploaded a wonderful piece to the Faithfully Yours gallery.

"It is a pretty powerful piece....so often we unthinkingly speak negative words into someones life...this tag speaks positive words into this little girl's life and gives her a life verse." -Shari

Be sure to visit the gallery for more inspirational faithbooking layouts, mini albums and projects. Please feel free to upload and share you own work.

Faithfully,

Dawn
www.FaithfullyYours.net

Photo Blocks

2007-01-25T07:05:00.000-06:00

This year I made photo blocks for Christmas gifts for my family. I ended up making 5 sets in all.

I started out with a blank block kit from DigitalScrapbookPlace.com. DH and I took the photos, I cropped in Photo Impact and printed out on regular cardstock. I used a square punch or just trimmed the photos to 1 1/2" sq. I adhered the photos to the blocks with decoupage. I also used the following papers by Crossed Paths on all five projects: Faith Collection: Stained Glass, Faith verses, Peace verses, Glory verses, Thankful Heart verses, and Family verses. My oldest daughter, Katlynn, painted the bases. I inked and stamped them to give them a distressed look. the metal plate is by Making Memories. I put 2 decoupage layers over the photos and papers and sanded the edges. I really enjoyed creating these keepsakes for my family. I think they enjoy receiving them as well.

Christmas Crafts

2006-12-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

I thought I would share some photos of the girls making Christmas crafts. This year they made Smores Nativity scenes and gave them out to friends and family. They made 36 and had a great time making them.

Here is the finished nativity and card the girls made. The manger is recycled grocery bags. I used circle punches and the star and manger was cut with Cricut. Love it! And finally, our beautiful packaging!

Now if I ever get around to developing the pictures and scrappin them, I'll be sure to upload to the gallery. :)

Faithfully,

Dawn

Sharing the Christmas Story on Christmas Eve

2006-12-22T07:53:00.000-06:00

Here we are...the final segment of the faith-filled Christmas series. I hope you have enjoyed these articles I have found to share with you.

Picture this scene. Everyone scrambles to get ready. Pajamas are donned and teeth are brushed. Before prayers are said, there’s to be a gathering in the living room. Each person finds a comfortable place to sit. The lights on the Christmas tree sparkle like diamonds. The smell of your favorite candle burning wafts throughout the room. Can you smell it? Or how about fresh baked cookies right from the oven? It’s Christmas Eve and everybody is waiting to hear the Christmas story.

A Christian Christmas is not complete without sharing the Christmas story. The story of the baby Jesus’ miraculous conception and lowly birth reaffirms our faith during the holiday season. Recounting the story on Christmas Eve prepares us for Christmas Day. We go to sleep thinking of Jesus and wake up with thanksgiving on our lips.

One individual doesn’t have to be responsible for telling the story. The entire family can get involved. Each member can come up with their own unique way of sharing the story. Whatever the idea, encourage each other to express what they feel in their hearts.

Sharing the Christmas story doesn’t have to take place before bedtime either. You could rent a video of the Christmas story and invite friends and other family members over early in the day on Christmas Eve and view it together. Add in some hot cocoa and Christmas cookies and you’ve created a relaxing afternoon. Of course, you may choose Christmas day for this tradition as well.

Whichever setting you choose for the story telling, ask those who are present to describe how the story makes them feel. For instance, I am grateful that God loved me so much that He allowed Jesus to be born. Looking at what Mary and Joseph went through, I am reminded that it is not always easy following God, but in the end God is always faithful.

Jesus was born to save the world. When we share his story at Christmastime, we give special attention to the One whose birth got little attention at the time. Remember the reason for the season!

The Christmas Nativity

2006-12-15T07:40:00.000-06:00

Beginning in early December, Christmas nativity scenes pop up in front of churches all over the country. Some depict the baby Jesus and Mary and Joseph. Others display the three Wise Men or “Magi” alongside the baby Jesus and his parents. Shepherds and their flocks are included, too. Still others feature stable animals and angels.

Let’s take a look into the Nativity scene though God’s Word. Two gospels in the Holy Bible contain an account of Jesus’ birth—Matthew and Luke. Both accounts mention that the Christ child was to be born of a virgin named Mary, who was pledged to be married to a man named Joseph (St. Matt. 1:18-25; St. Luke 2:1-7). They traveled to Bethlehem in the land of Judea where Mary gave birth to the Savior.

According to the book of Matthew, Magi visited Jerusalem and asked King Herod where the birth of the prophesied Christ had taken place (St. Matt. 2:1-12). They followed a star which led them to Bethlehem where they visited with the baby Jesus and his parents. In honor of his birth, they presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. They never revealed the child’s location to anyone, thus ensuring his family’s safety from King Herod.

The book of Luke does not mention the Magi, but a group of shepherds tending their flocks (St. Luke 2:8-20). An angel of the Lord appeared in the midst of the shepherds and told them of the birth of Jesus and its significance. Following the angel’s instructions, the shepherds found the baby in Bethlehem, laying in a manger, or feeding trough, in the stable, because the inn had no room. After their visit, the shepherds told anyone who would listen about what they had witnessed.

The Magi were wealthy Middle Eastern men who traveled a fair distance to view the Messiah. Their wealth is evidenced by the caliber of the gifts they presented. The shepherds, in contrast, were simple, hardworking men who were given a revelation from God about the baby Jesus. It seems like they represent who Jesus was born to save—the rich and the poor.

The Greatest Gift of All

2006-12-08T07:30:00.000-06:00

Is there such a thing as “the perfect gift”? At Christmastime, shoppers go in search of it. Everyone wants his or her gift to be just what that receiver has always wanted. The things that people really want to make their lives better, can’t be bought from a store. I’m talking about good health, peace of mind, financial security, and long life to name a few.

There is a gift that can provide the missing elements of our lives. Best of all, anyone who knows where to find it can tell you where to get it—free of charge. It sounds too good to be true, but this is one gift that delivers what it promises.

God presented this perfect gift to the world over 2,000 years ago. His son, Jesus, was born in a stable in Bethlehem to a humble carpenter and his betrothed, a virgin named Mary. There was no get-together to celebrate the blessed event, only a star casting down its light from the night sky.

During the Christmas holiday, those who are Christians celebrate Jesus’ birth as the beginning of something wonderful. Without his birth, there could not have been a victorious death at Calvary and eternal salvation for every believer. Jesus’ life upon this earth was short, but he left behind a lifetime of teaching.

God’s love became real through Jesus Christ. Those who longed to know that God cared about them had at last found comfort. I started going to church regularly when my best friend invited me, however it wasn’t until I became an adult that I accepted Jesus’ message and received God’s gift of salvation. Now, I have a friend who will never disappoint me and a Father who answers when I call.

Remember the things I mentioned earlier: good health, peace of mind, financial freedom, and long life? God provides for them all through his Son. I can sleep better at night knowing that He is taking care of me. I also trust my beautiful family to Him, too. Whenever I hear my children pray or see my husband delivering the sermon at church on Sunday, I am grateful for Jesus Christ in our lives.

Would you like to know where to find God’s greatest gift? He’s as close as your knees are to the floor. Tell him that you want him to become a part of your life. Ask him to forgive your sins and make your heart and mind whole again. The greatest gift of all is now yours.

How does Santa fit into a Christian Christmas?

2006-12-05T12:18:00.000-06:00

Today we will continue with the faith-filled Christmas series...

Christian and non-Christian alike have heard of him. As children, we imagined the sleigh, decorated with gold and jewels. Small pointy-eared people stuffed dolls, train sets, trucks, and other treats into a bottomless red bag. The sleigh driver—a plump, kindly man sporting white hair and a red outfit, sat at the helm ready to lead his reindeer team across the night sky in search of deserving girls and boys. I remember not being able to sleep on Christmas Eve, my body filled with nervous energy as I waited for Santa Claus to arrive.

The aforementioned images have been a tradition in America for the last two centuries, even in Christian homes. Today, we have to ask ourselves: does Santa Claus have a place in Christian celebrations during the Christmas season? The modern Santa Claus was loosely based on an actual person who possessed qualities every Christian should imitate.

The name of St. Nicholas has been used interchangeably with that of Santa Claus but they are not the same. Saint Nicholas was born in the third century A.D. He came from a Christian home and believed in the teachings of Jesus Christ. He used his vast resources to help those in need, thus fulfilling Christ’s mission. Stories grew from his extraordinary deeds, each more fanciful than the one before. Once Europeans colonized America, the stories evolved into tales to entertain children and our version of the Santa Claus legend began.

As Christian individuals, we have a responsibility to represent Christ in all aspects of our lives. What greater opportunity exists to show the world God’s love than during the celebration of Christ’s birth? God sent His only Son into the world to give mankind a second chance that we did not deserve. Our children deserve the truth. Make-believe stories are fun, but when they appear to be more popular than the truth, they can mislead our children.

The Santa Claus legend must be replaced with the facts. Saint Nicholas existed and he lived his life in service to the Savior whose birth we celebrate during the Christmas season. That’s the truth. At Christmas, nothing should overshadow the birth of Christ, God’s ultimate gift.

Katlynn's Baptism

2006-11-29T11:37:00.000-06:00

My oldest daugther, Katlynn, got baptised on November 1. I actually had the event scrapped by the following Wednesday, a record for me.

Journaling reads:
It all started with a convesaton at McDonalds. Daddy told her that to follow Christ meant she had to love Him more than mommy and daddy.

A recent visit to "Judgement Day" led Katlynn to the realization that she needed to make a decision-the decision to follow Christ in everything!

Materials used:
Be Blessed Scrapbooking papers-Life's Adventures, Tapestry
Karen Foster Baptism stickers
eyelets

I will upload to the gallery next, for larger views.

A Faith-filled Family Christmas

2006-11-25T17:30:00.000-06:00

I ran across this and thought I would share with you...enjoy!

A Faith-filled Family Christmas

Preparations for the Christmas season begin right after Thanksgiving. Christmas decorations in all shapes, sizes, and colors adorn store shelves just in time for the after-Thanksgiving Day sales rush. Moms and Dads line up for miles outside toy stores, rain or shine, to be the first to buy the hottest new item. By Christmas morning grown ups don’t even want to get out of bed to celebrate the day. This year instead of preparing our wallets and pocketbooks, let’s prepare our hearts to usher in the Christmas season with our families in a faith-affirming way.

Family Worship
The season of Advent (which means arrival) begins the first Sunday after Thanksgiving and extends through four Sundays. Advent celebrates the coming of the Christ child into the world and the significance of this event in the lives of every Christian.

The Advent wreath, the centerpiece of worship, consists of a small wreath (real or artificial), evergreen sprigs, five candleholders, and five candles. Three of the candles can be purple or deep blue, one is traditionally pink or rose-colored, and the fifth candle is white. The candles are arranged in a circular fashion inside the wreath with the white candle, usually called the Christ candle, in the center of the other four.

Worship time can be set aside each Sunday before church or later in the evening before bedtime. Family members can take turns each week lighting the candles and reading a devotional and prayer. A few moments can be set aside for any questions that younger family members may want to ask about the celebration.

Family Fun
Holidays are a time for people to get out and celebrate with family and friends. As a family, host a “Christmas for Christ” party. Involve the whole family in the planning. The central theme, of course, is the celebration of the birth of Christ. Have the children create their own special invitations. Invite Christian and non-Christian friends alike. Do the shopping for game prizes at this time too. If a lot of activities are planned, start early enough to fit everything into the evening.

To defray some costs, have guests each bring a dish and serve a buffet-style meal. Since decorations will already be hung for Christmas, no extra fanfare is needed. If a costume party sounds fun, have guests dress as a person from the nativity scene. Prizes can be given for the best costumes. The games that are chosen should revolve around the theme. People love trivia games, charades, and puzzles at parties. Let the kids take charge of the games while parents organize the buffet.

Don’t forget to end the night as well as you started. No Christmas gathering is complete without dessert, singing of carols, and the telling of the Christmas story. Sharing your faith with your family should be special and fun. You will create Christmas traditions that will be enjoyed for years to come.

Faith-Filled Gift Giving Ideas for Christmas

2006-11-18T17:09:00.000-06:00

As we approach the busy shopping day of the year, here are a few faith filled gift giving ideas.

Homemade gift baskets can show just how much love we’ve poured into our gift giving this year. A basket can be put together at home cheaper than the same basket could be purchased from the store. My church youth group made homemade gifts one year and the project was a big success. The kids worked hard to create the best gifts they could for the person whose name they had chosen.

A special talent or skill that you possess can be a big help in creating a homemade gift. I like to crochet and sew. One year, I made winter scarves in Christmas colors for a few of my family baskets. I also made a few twin-sized comforters for the children. If crafts are your thing, try your hand at creating handmade jewelry. Whatever your talent, put it to good use.

Many of us are not the creative sort, but there are ideas for you too. Instead of hitting the toy and/or department stores, head to your local Christian store, such as: Lifeway Christian, Family Christian, and Cokesbury Christian stores. You can find interesting gifts from music and jewelry to videos and games. Children will love the videos and games. My kids loved the VeggieTales™ movies and toys when they were younger. The characters were funny and they taught good lessons without being preachy.

If you still haven’t found that special gift, I have yet another idea—gift cards. All of us know at least one individual or family that could use household or personal items more than other types of gifts. If someone on your list needs clothing, then a gift card will allow them to select the very thing they need.

Other types of stores sell gift cards, too. My family and I have given grocery gift cards to friends on fixed incomes or those who were having a hard time making ends meet. My father has even given gas cards as gifts. With the rising cost of petroleum, this is a great idea.

Gift giving doesn’t have to be hard, but it should be thoughtful. As a Christian, even our Christmas gifts reflect our ministry—meeting others at their level of need.

***This wasn't written by me, but I thought you might enjoy the ideas. I am partial to homemade gifts, but not everyone appreciates or needs them. Try to remember the person you want to give to, what are their needs. (not what you think they need) I am usually ahead of the game, but this year I haven't even started! Have fun shopping and remember the reason for the season!

Decorating for a Christian Christmas

2006-11-10T07:31:00.000-06:00

Nothing gets me in the holiday spirit like putting up Christmas decorations. The biggest part of the decorating is the Christmas tree. We never had a real tree growing up and I still have an artificial tree even as an adult. From our first Charlie Brown tree to the beautiful tree we are now blessed with. My mom spends countless hours on the lights alone-making sure every square inch is glistening. I suppose my patience has worn out over the years and I just love my prelit one.(got on clearance one year) My family and I typically decorate the Friday or Saturday following Thanksgiving to do our Christmas decorating.

There are a variety of Christmas tree ornaments available today. Having 4 girls ours are predominantly homemade ornaments as well as some ornaments that have been given to us. I wouldn't have it any other way! We place a beautiful angel at the top of the tree and our tree skirt was lovingly made by my mother in law.

The decoration you choose for the door lets visitors know what type of home they are entering. A wreath or a sign displaying a holiday greeting implies a welcoming spirit within. I have two wreaths that were made for us by my sister in law and mother in law. So now we can enjoy a wreath both as we enter our home and once inside.

I like decorating my home with candles. I scour the stores for holiday scented candles to display. The mingling of sweet holiday smells adds to the warmth of the season. Anyone coming in will think you’ve been baking all day! Although this is my time of year to do just that.

Evergreen swags are a popular decoration that doesn’t cost a lot. Twist them around banisters or hang them across the mantelpiece. Adding a string of white lights will soften the look.

Poinsettias will add a splash of color to any room in your home. The beautiful leaves were once thought to be poisonous to children, but resent research has shown that this is not the case. If this is the reason you haven’t bought them in the past, now you can show them off safely.

A special decoration in my home is our Nativity scene that sits by the fireplace. We also have a plastic Precious Moments one for the girls to play and rearrange. I want my children and my friends to see the reason why I am joyful at Christmastime. Since our homes are an extension of ourselves, I want mine to be a testament to my faith especially at Christmas.

This Christmas season as you decorate, keep in mind the reason for the season. See if you have any reminders in your decorating to celebrate the birth of our Saviour!Perhaps you can start a tradition. This isn't related to decorating but our family always sings "Happy Birthday" to Jesus as part of our Christmas celebration. What are your traditions? Be sure to photograph and scrapbook them!

Serving the Community this Christmas

2006-11-03T05:00:00.000-06:00

Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men. Ephesians 6:7

The best part of Christmas is sharing peace and love with others. The true meaning of Christmas should bring hope to every man, woman, and child. Doing something selfless for others helps us spread that hope. What can you do?

Neighbor helping Neighbor. Around here, snow will arrive this holiday season. If you live in an area that receives snowfall, then you know that shoveling snow is hard work. Is there someone in your neighborhood that could use a shoveled driveway and porch? A widow, single-mom, ederly couple all would appreciate the Christian charity.

Shopping break. Malls and shopping centers become hubs of activity at Christmastime. Everyone is so busy shopping, that no one takes the time to eat. Here’s another great opportunity to help out in the community. Your church youth group, women’s group, or member's of your congregation can organize and provide a much needed snack, free of charge, for busy shoppers. Keep your snack items simple and would provide a boost of energy for tired shoppers. Shoppers will thank you for the hospitality. If they ask why you are doing it, let them know that you are sharing a bit of Christ’s love during the holidays.

Visit a nursing home. This is one area of definate neglect. You can either visit on your own and just spend time talking with the residents, letting them know someone cares. Or have your church youth group/choir sing carols to help put them in the holiday cheer.

Helping out in the community can be fun and rewarding while sharing Christ this holiday season. These are just a couple ideas to get you thinking. What can you in your community?

since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:24

Sharing Christ at Christmas

2006-10-27T07:08:00.000-06:00

As the Christmas season approaches, let's start thinking of ways we can share our faith and love of Christ to others.

As Christian men and women, we know the true meaning of Christmas in our hearts, but how many of us proclaim this fact to the world around us during the holidays? We can gently challenge those who would see Christmas as a time for commercialism and greed by letting our actions speak for themselves.

Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.
1 Timothy 5:22

Pass it on. Want to give a special gift to a friend or coworker? Give them the gift of the Word. Pre-printed leaflets recounting the miracle of Jesus’ birth can be purchased from a Christian bookstore. Or, how about sharing the Christmas story in a creative way by creating a special gift of your own. (mini album, card, pin, photo frame) A small item, such as a votive candle, is another idea. Purchase an inexpensive votive candle holder and create a lovely tag that you tie around it sharing a verse. Fill a weary heart with God’s message.

Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 1 Peter 4:9

Share His love. When someone invites a person to their house, it signifies that they wish to show their hospitality with them. When we accept Christ into our lives, his home becomes our home. Invite a friend or coworker to God’s house for a Christmas program. They will be glad they came.

Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Romans 12:13

Get involved. For people living on the fringes of society, life gets a little bit harder around the Christmas holidays. Suicide rates increase. Those in urgent need, like the poor and destitute, become more so due to the weather conditions that time of year. God cries out for us to show His love. Volunteers are a welcomed sight at holiday time. Soup kitchens and food banks seek extra people to prepare and serve hot meals and help with food box deliveries. The social services agency can provide particulars on families in the area that want to be “adopted” for Christmas. As a church body, everyone can pitch in and provide gifts and other necessary items. Providing gifts for orphaned children can also be a church project or one taken on by individual families within the congregation. If you see a need that has yet to be met, begin your own program to provide it.

You may be the only Bible people read, what are you saying? During his lifetime, Jesus met each person at their level of need. Someone whose belly has been filled with food you helped to provide will be ready to hear more about the God you serve.

A commitment to Christ is a commitment to communicate his life and love to others. If Christ is number one in our lives, our actions should let everyone know it. As Christians, we have a unique opportunity to bring to the world, a true understanding of the Christmas season. I pray you find a way to share Christ this Christmas season.

How does this apply to faithbooking? When you include Christ in your faithbooks (journaling, scripture, etc.) aren't you proclaiming to all who see your albums your faith in Christ?

Teaching Kids to Give

2006-10-20T07:32:00.000-06:00

if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. Romans 12:8

Teaching Kids that it is Better to Give than to Receive

Each November and sometimes before, kids of all ages start filling out their Christmas wish lists. I remember as a kid, receiving the Sears Wishbook in the mail. My brother and I would spend hours going through it circling what we wanted, making our lists, wishing and dreaming. Nowadays, kids are bombarded with television commercials and you begin hearing, "Ooh, I want that for Christmas!" As parents, we want the best for our children. We want to give them everything they want, but should we be more concerned for what they need? I will admit, I don't even know what to get my girls this year, although I'm sure I will get a list. With 4 girls and 12 years worth of toys handed down, what else could they possibly need or want? And you know what, they hardly ever play with toys anyway. When they play, they pretend and make use of what they do have. Our blankets are converted into tents/houses. They play school and store and make up stuff or play outside as much as possible. I am thankful for that!

But I got off subject...by the time December first rolls around, the list has grown huge!(typically) Actually, my girls don't have huge lists. Is it because they don't need anything? Grown ups aren’t much better. Our lists aren’t as long, but our gift wishes are more expensive! (Can you say, wishblade or Cricut?) How did this happen? Our kids didn’t just wake up one morning with their hands held out and greed in their hearts. “I want! I want!” is a learned behavior. We have lost sight that it is more blessed to give than to receive.

All day long he craves for more, but the righteous give without sparing. Proverbs 21:26

Where It All Begins

As a child, we are not born with knowledge of our actions. All behavior must be learned. Our first teachers are our parents and guardians. Kids imitate what they see. It is up to us as Christian parents to teach our children to follow the ways of God. That includes teaching them about giving and receiving. They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but if we don’t concern ourselves with giving, how can we expect our children to act any different?

An Unselfish Gift

The story of the birth of Jesus is a shining example of selfless giving. God allowed His only Son to be born, knowing that he would live and die for a world that had turned its back on Him time and time again. God offered His gift of love with no strings attached. We still have the free will to accept or reject His gift.

Freely you have received, freely give. Matthew 10:8

Actions Speak Louder than Words

Get kids involved in their communities. Help them see that there are families who don’t have a home or enough food to eat. Several times a year and especially during the Christmas holiday season, help them to go through their closets and gather together clothing and coats that no longer fit. Kids should come along with you when dropping off the clothes at Goodwill or another agency of your choice. Toys in good condition that aren’t played with anymore can be donated too. I do this with my girls, especially when I want to get their rooms clean and organized. We have a "Blessing Box". I tell the girls, "go through your toys, if it is no longer blessing you because you don't play with it, don't like it or it is broken, than it is time to do something about it." Obviously broken toys go in the trash, but perfectly good toys go in the blessing box. When the box is full, we take it to Salvation Army or Goodwill. Here recently, we attended JesusFest where they were adopting bears. These bears would go to children who would not have a Christmas because their parents were in jail or otherwise unable to provide for them. The girls wondered what happened to the bears I purchased, after I explained, I hope it made them thankful and realize how fortunate they really are.

Soup kitchens provide hot meals for the hungry all year round. Take your kids and let them help prepare and serve. Even at five years of age they can help you serve. Tell them that Jesus did the same thing for multitudes of people. This I haven't done. To be honest, part of me worries about the crack addict that wonders in needing another fix and what could potentially happen. I know I should put my trust in Jesus to protect my girls while serving Him.

Supermarkets and department stores hang paper Christmas trees with the names of children who need gifts for Christmas. Your children could choose a tree and help another child like themselves to have a happy Christmas morning. These are just a few things you can do to help teach your children the importance of giving rather than receiving. If you have any other ideas, please share.

Through your actions, your children will learn that giving unselfishly to another person feels good and benefits everyone. Their Christmas lists may just get a little bit shorter and their hearts will definitely get a whole lot bigger.

Relating to faithbooking

How does this relate to faithbooking? Take pictures of your blessing box and journal about what you gave and to where. Take pictures of your children serving others, record it to remember God's commands and their obedience.

In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' Acts20:35

Holy slap in the face

2006-09-13T06:25:00.000-06:00

Lately I have been doing a lot of reading, devotionals as well as business related articles all written by the same gentleman. I realized that most of his writing contained a real world incident. I thought to myself, "I wish my girls could come up with some ingenious marketing insight like his 5 year old son." Or no wonder his writings are so good and seem to come to him so easily, when it is all about what is going on in his life. And then it hit me like a holy slap in the face...

Is it that my girls don't have any marketing wisdom within them or some spiritual eye openings? Or is it that I am too busy to see it for myself? I'm afraid it is the latter. You see I can't seem to do one thing at a time, I'm always doing at least 2 if not more. While doing dishes or folding laundry, I'm planning the next scrapbook layout, writing the next article, thinking about what I'm going to do next...While in the van driving anywhere, my mind is busy. Sure I answer the girls when they ask me a question or talk to me, but if they are busy doing there own thing, so is my brain. I remember times when I would listen to them, for whatever reason they think I can't hear them, and just smile to myself at some of the things they would say. I realize that I have been missing out and not seeing God in the everyday. Here I am supposed to be encouraging others to scrapbook their Faith and recognize God Moments, when I myself am not. Are you caught up in the sin of busyness like me? With God's help, I pray that I (or we) can overcome the sin of busyness, slow down and see God more clearly.

I didn't want to write this post, because I am one of those people who "care what other people think and my life is just fine!" But if it helps one other person...

Faithfully,

Dawn
http://www.FaithfullyYours.net

The Perfect Plan

2006-08-10T09:42:00.000-06:00

On my unplanned vacation I spent some of the time coming up with the perfect plan or schedule. I knew I would be coming home to a mess, inside and outside, with soccer season starting and school right around the corner I was starting to wonder how I could do it all! Upon returning home, I jumped right into my plan and the first week went well. The girls responded and even commented on how much they enjoyed the new "reward" system and way of doing chores. The first week of soccer went well and then week two...Monday was good. Tuesday started off fine and then I had to mow the lawn. I inadvertantly hit a rock, stick or something that shot up and shattered the van window. This is the day after all the tree limbs were finally taken away and the remnants of the storm pretty much gone, to now face another insurance claim. Thank God the window was completely covered and no deductible. As a matter of fact, someone is coming today to fix it. Ok, not a big problem, but now Katlynn is complaining of her swollen gland hurting and being tired. Off to the doctor...3 hours later and armed with antibiotics, we rush home to eat and off to soccer practice. Long story short, a very hectic day, constant running, but thankfully her blood tests came back fine. Ok, it is now Wednesday, a new day to get back to the perfect plan! Or not. I won't bore you with the details but I once again am reminded that there is no perfect plan, only He is perfect! I must remain patient and flexible. Perhaps God was preparing me for next week when homeschool begins?

Back up...I don't go to the doctor without something to do. So I brought a new book Embellished Emotions for scrapbookers. Love it! (done in my Wheezy voice from Dragon Tales) A quick summary: this book gives lots of ideas and inspiration for using quotes and sayings as titles and journaling in your scrapbooks. Although the book listed many resources and websites for quotes, they didn't mention the Bible. A perfect resource, am I right? :) So thinking back on the past couple of days and my "perfect plan", I decided to try my hand with a project inspired by this book. Here is what I came up with:
I think this would make a great embellishment, title or in place of journaling to go along with a picture of someone going on to college or any other big change in their life. My daughter would be going into middle school and I know from talking with other mothers, they are worried about this big step for their daughters. Wouldn't it be nice to do a page with a picture of your child and your thoughts/concerns/hopes for them as they enter middle school? I also thought about using it as a card embellishment to give to one of these young ladies as an encouragement before starting school.

A few directions for the tag:

I started out with a sketch to get my ideas down. I used a wipe erase board because it was accessible and could be erased and play around with easily.

With the sketch, I had an idea of where I wanted to place the text and what words I want "highlighted".

I printed the text out on light cardstock and cut into strips.
I stamped letters for "LORD" and "Future". Trim or punch out. (I used a little tag punch for "future". For "LORD" I stamped the square border, then letters inside and trimmed.
Inked edges and matt "plans".
I used a tag from Crossed Paths Faith collection as my base. Arrange your text elements until you are pleased.
The "Hope" embellishment is from Crossed Paths Faith collection round epoxy accents.
Add cross brad, adhere tag punch to back at top of tag.
Adhere small circle punch to continue the round element theme from "Hope".

*Stamps are from EK Succes True Faith collection. Brad is Accent Depot, purchased from PaperWishes.

I hope the above tag gives you some ideas and inspiration for your next layout! I would love to see some of your own creations.

Faithfully,

Dawn

http://www.FaithfullyYours.net

The Storm cont.

2006-08-04T07:30:00.000-06:00

I guess the beauty of digital scrapbooking is you can change your mind! I redid the first layout I posted and added a second one from the second storm.

(click on image for larger view)

No Fear digital kit by Kelly Shults of www.Scrapix-Design.com

Another Storm

2006-08-01T07:22:00.000-06:00

A storm blew through on Wednesday, July 19. We were at church during the storm and witnessed alot of wind damage there. When we arrived home we couldn't make it to our driveway as our street was blocked with downed trees. We were without power, neighbors had holes in their roofs, our house seemed to be fine just alot of tree damage. We spent Thursday cleaning up and were blessed with church family stopping by to help with the clean up. Our neighbors all pulled together, helping each other out and talking more than we have in years. Funny how it takes a storm to bring the neighborhood together, or is it?

Friday morning we began packing the van for our trip to Wisconsin for the half-ironman my husband and bil were participating in. When storm #2 blew through. We headed for the basement until the tornado sirens stopped and discovered more downed trees including a huge branch on my husband's car. We had to break out the chain saw once again and move trees out of the street, but decided to go ahead and go since there wasn't much we could do here still without power and we had campground reservations. We arrived home Monday night and still had no power. We stayed with my mil that night and decided to head to Kansas City to stay with my bil. We are very blessed with Shawn's (dh) job that he can work from home with this work laptop and were able to go where we could enjoy the convenience's of life. (power, air conditioning, refrigerated food)

An extra bonus for me is my friend Anna and FY Design Team member lives close by and I can visit with her. We met up Friday morning for a scrapbook session and I was able to meet another friend and list member. I did not bring any scrapbooking supplies with me, but realized I had digital pictures of the storm and a digital scrapbook kit "No Fear" available in the FY store that I had never played with. So I was able to scrap afterall. Here is the layout I did:

(click image for larger view and use browser back button)

*No Fear digital kit by Kelly Shults of www.Scrapix-Design.com

I have more pictures from storm #2 and hope to get to that layout soon. Be on the lookout! :) We are back home, power is back on and things are almost back to normal. Soccer season has started. Four girls on four different teams, 3 practicing on Tuesdays and games every Saturday. Can't wait! Until next time...

Faithfully,

Dawn

Craftapalooza

2006-07-15T16:14:00.000-06:00

I just thought I would let you know about an online craft event coming up. There will be more on scrapbooking as well as an interview with me about faithbooking. Here is the details:

Craftapalooza Online is an online crafting festival bringing a variety of crafting articles, tutorials and FREEBIES to you. We have experts who are presenting great crafting tips and techniques. Don't forget to join us for interactive craft chats too. Craftapalooza Online is running from July 18 - 20 at http://www.craftapaloozaonline.com

Thanks for reading!

Faithfully,

Dawn

Father's Day Wallet

2006-06-07T06:50:00.000-06:00

I saw a mini album by EK Success at my local scrapbookstore. It resembled a wallet and I thought it would make a great Father's Day gift for both my husband and my dad. They only had one in stock, so I recreated my own using supplies I had on hand. Here is what I came up with...I used pictures my husband took while we were on vacation. My 7 year old, Kimi, had gotten into trouble and after reprimanding her, Shawn took a picture of them together.(you can see the tear in her eye) He then took a picture of himself with everyone. I resized these photos to wallet size and inserted them into the wallet. I asked the girls to include their own sentiments to be included with their photos for a special touch to this Father's Day gift. Here are the girls.

This project was alot easier than I had anticipated. Have fun with!

If you would like to see step by step instructions, visit http://www.thatscrapbooksite.com/Wallet.html

Thanks for reading!

Faithfully,

Dawn

Vacation layouts:Fishing

2006-05-24T09:54:00.000-06:00

As some of you many already know, we recently went on vacation. I have slowly but surely been working on getting our photos(over 200) scrapped. I chose to do an 8x8 vacation theme album and purchased a vacation theme pack of papers to aid in quicker and cooridinated layouts.

I asked the girls their favorite part about vacation and they all said "Fishing!". Who would have guessed? So, I have decided to share our fishing layouts with you first. Although it was their favorite, there wasn't much to say about it, so not much journaling. I hope you enjoy them!

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Fish Stories-cut from coordinating patterned paper, tag reads "It was this BIG!"
Bucket of fish-Top journaling: "For he and all his companiions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken." Luke 5:9
Bottom journaling: We caught enough fish to eat dinner! Bullhead, wide-mouth bass and even a blue gill!

(click on images for larger view-use back button to return to blog)
Journaling reads: "Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of th air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground." Genesis 1:26

(click on image for larger view-use back button to return to blog)
Journaling reads: "Once again the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish." Matthew 13;47

I apologize for the blurry pictures, need to get the scanner working! More vacation layouts to come...

Mom

2006-05-06T08:23:00.000-06:00

“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her” Proverbs 31:28

As a wife and mother, I know this is one verse I strive to work towards everyday! Can you imagine it?

This time of year I think about my mother and the lessons she has taught me as a child. Unfortunately, now as an adult we don't spend much quality time together. Although we are only 30 minutes apart, we hardly have time to see other. We both have hectic and opposite schedules and can never seem to coordinate. I know I need to make more of a committment, but yet I don't. After Easter, I see more clearly now how our relationship is strained over my committment to Christ. Although my mom is a believer, she doesn't have a relationship with Christ that she needs. I pray in time, her relationship with me and Christ will be strengthened!

I ordered some cute mini frame pins for a special layout for my mom. But wouldn't you know they are backordered! I hope to receive them soon and share a layout here with you.

Thanks for reading!

Dawn

Easter layouts to share

2006-04-18T14:56:00.000-06:00

These are two layouts I did of our Easter this year. One is an Easter egg hunt and bbq at a family from our church. The other is from my family Easter get together. The Easter poems were written by my husband. Papers and tags are from Crossed Paths Easter Collection. Creative Memories cutting system used for egg shapes.

(Click on images for larger view)

Easter

2006-04-16T17:10:00.000-06:00

I am going on vacation soon and want to publish the next issue of the Faithfully Yours ezine before I leave. The theme of this issue is Easter. I keep putting it off and I only have a couple days left. You see, I'm in denial. Before I go on, if you knew me, you would know that this is very hard for me and isn't me. I'm one of those goody two shoes nice girls who likes everyone to think everything is all right. I'm opening my heart here...

Last weekend we got together with my family to celebrate Easter. Everything was going along fine. We just finished dinner and opening presents. (we were celebrating birthdays too) Not quite ready for dessert yet, we were just sitting around talking and spending time together. Well, a friend of ours that came along, brought up church. My sil very abruptly said, "Can we not talk about religion today?" Well, this didn't sit well with my husband as he got up and started rounding up the kids. I was confused. She is a devout Catholic and goes to church regularly. My brother on the other hand does not and my mom stopped going after the kids left home. And I can't remember a time my dad has been to church, even for one of our "programs". I have been wanting to witness to my family and we have been trying slowly. (I suppose) I kind of got up slowly pretending I didn't know what was going on around me. My sil said to me, "I hope you are not leaving because of what I said." I said I think we are. And then she started to tell me that she didn't like the letter I wrote my brother at Christmas(I wrote him a letter telling him my feelings and I how I wanted him to come to know the Lord, etc. and that I wasn't sure if my sil was saved) She felt I was judging her. I felt like I had just been punched in the stomach, I didn't know what to say. I was completely caught off guard and was well -shocked! I just got my stuff and left! I sat in the back of van, mad at my husband for leaving so suddenly, mad at my sil, mad at my brother and mad at myself. My head was pounding, I was fighting not to throw up and I was so upset! I feel like I have lost my family-like I have to choose between my family now and my parents and brother! We rarely talk or get together just holidays. All I can think of is how the next holiday is Mother's Day and I don't think we will be getting together. I feel soo alone in this because my dh doesn't understand. I know he will just quote scripture and say the verse about "losing your family over me". So I guess I'm a little mad at God too. I'm sorry! I know this probably doesn't make much sense. I keep trying to pretend it didn't happen, yet I cry myself to sleep every night. I know what I need to do, I just can't though. I haven't opened my Bible and only read a couple devotionals, my prayers are "routine". I'm scared.

We are now only two days from leaving for vacation. We will be gone for 10 days. My mom Idid call to wish us a safe trip and she babbled on for awhile, but nothing was said about our Easter get together. I just couldn't bring it up. So I'm not sure what to think. I'm hoping to go away on vacation, "get away from everything" for awhile and come back ready to face reality. She did mention she is off work the first week of May and her and my dad want to spend a day with the kids. So maybe then.

Anyway, thanks for "listening". I appreciate everyone. I will be returning on April 29 and hope to catch up on emails soon after. Take care...

Faithfully,

Dawn

The Storm

2006-04-05T06:04:00.000-06:00

I want to talk about a recent experience here in the Stegall house. A storm blew through the area and we had lost power for several hours. Our family plus several friends were over. We sat in the basement by candlelight talking, playing and enjoying each others company while waiting for the storm to pass. Once it did, we still had no power. We moved back upstairs and all sat by a picture window in our front rooom where it was very brightly lit and played handclapping games! With four girls and two female friends, the two males in the house were starting to get pretty competitive with this handclapping game "Down by the banks". But the girls prevailed! Then we switched to playing Uno. I think we should change the name to "Sorry!" Everytime we played a "bad" card we said, "I'm sorry, but it was all I had!" Too funny! We moved to the family room, cuddled up on couches and starting discussing the sermon and Bible study from earlier that morning. Although we were under watch until 11:30, our friend felt it was safe enough to leave. Katlynn, my oldest daughter, didn't agree. She wrote a poem about the entire experience. Together we turned it into a scrapbook page.

Journaling:

The Storm
The storm hit the city, it didn't look pretty. We were all so worried. Then we all hurried to safety... But lately it didn't sound good, then it started to clear up. But abruptly we started to have fun. While we were playing it went away. It sarted to look good, it would be okay. We started to pray, the sky looked gray. Til 11:30 we were on watch, but then she botched and went home. The phone wasn't wroking, but the cell started ringing. She told us when it would occur. We were all talking about how much we loved God. And how we spread his Word because we love Him. He saved us from the storm, even though it was raining it is better. God saved her, she is okay. Hallelujah! April 2, 2006

Scripture on tag:
The Lord is my strength... Exodus 15:2

Materials used:
*Reminders of Faith Hope collection blue leaves, blue reversible cardstock, tag sheet
*Crossed Paths Praise collection-Give Praise
*American Traditional stickers
Title: computer font "chiller"
Circle punch, stamped with button

*Available in the Faithfully Yours store.

2006-03-31T20:40:00.000-06:00

Did you know Faithfully Yours publishes an ezine? You can view the current issue here.

Highlights include:

*devotional
*faithbooking starter questions
*gallery ideas
*free wordart
*plus more...

Blog posting...or lack thereof!

2006-03-23T08:17:00.000-06:00

I am really horrible at posting in my blog! I am not publishing a faithbooking ezine 3 times per month. If interested you can sign up at www.FaithfullyYours.net I'm trying to decide what I should do with this blog. Perhaps take something from the ezine and post here, just include my occasional ramblings or maybe forget it all together! If anyone is actually reading this, any thoughts? :)

I have recently found a site www.ThatScrapbookSite.com and have included one of my faithbooking articles there. I hope to add more soon, both on faithbooking as well as on general scrapbooking. My next project is "scrapbooking for kids".

Well, I suppose that is it for this post. Drop me an email and let me know what is on your mind!

Faithfully,

Dawn

Faithbooking classes

2006-02-15T14:23:00.000-06:00

Question: I want to start a faithbooking class with the ladies of my church. Do you have any ideas or pointers?

Answer: Well, there are a few options you can further explore. First of all, put together a general outline of how you want the event to go. For example, start off with a brief introduction of your intentions for the event, followed by a short devotional. Then go over the faithbooking starter questions to get them thinking of how your guests can start incorporating their faith into their scrapbooks. Now would be a good time to share some of your own layouts. Then encourage some scrappin, fellowshipping and sharing time.

For more ideas, "A Women's Ministry Guide to Scrapbooking" by Sandra Joseph is a great resource. This book even comes with a cd containing bulletin inserts, postcards, ideas and more! The guide is available in the Faithfully Yours store.

Each month we will be exploring a new theme in the Faithfully Yours ezine. Each issue will provide a devotional, faithbooking starter questions, ideas and more that you can use in your faithbooking classes.

Finally, http://www.scrapbookersbubblebath.com/ offers faithbooking devotionals. These devotionals are designed to provide guidance for Christian scrapbooking small group leaders or individual faithbookers. Click the above link for more information.

You can find the above at www.FaithfullyYours.net in the resources section. Check back as more information is added.

Luke 2:11

2005-12-01T20:03:00.000-06:00

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11

In today’s world it is often easy to get caught up in all the hoop-la that comes with the holidays and downplay the reason for the season! With four young girls who get excited about Santa, elves and reindeer we make a conscience effort to teach them the real reason for celebration-the birth of our Savior! About 2 years ago, Kelsey (my second daughter) came up with the idea to start our very own tradition. Before we open any Christmas presents, we all sit around as a family and sing Happy Birthday to Jesus and thank God for the gift of His Son! I’m always proud of my girls for taking the time for this time of remembrance and not hurrying to get to the presents! If I remember correctly, this moment is document on video. But this year, I hope to capture on film and then scrapbook this tradition to continue to pass down through the generations!
Do you have your own Christ-centered traditions with your family? Maybe this is the year to start your own! If you would like to share your traditions, please do so!

I Love You

2005-09-07T15:05:00.000-06:00

My daughter, Kori, is a constant reminder of God's love! "I love you!" these 3 little words, she says daily or more like hourly. During the day, when I least expect it- "Mom". "Yes, Kori" She answers, "I love you!" I love you too! And then there are times when I am particularly frustrasted and on edge. She will say, "Mom". And I answer sharply, "What?" "I love you!" comes her sweet reply and then my heart melts along with my bad mood. What a reminder of what a true blessing from God she is to me and of God's love for me! I know I won't forget this time, but I wanted to document as a reminder for me of God's love as well as to share with others! I'm soo glad I finally finished it. I used the Innocence Collection papers, tags and stickers by Crossed Paths. You can see a better picture of the layout at http://www.FaithfullyYours.net and follow the gallery link. The Innocence Collection is available for sale in the store. Enjoy!

Why faithbook?

2005-07-22T13:39:00.000-06:00

Why faithbook?
Do Not Forget the LORD
1 Be careful to follow every command I am giving you today, so that you may live and increase and may enter and possess the land that the LORD promised on oath to your forefathers. 2 Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. 3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. 4 Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. 5 Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the LORD your God disciplines you.
6 Observe the commands of the LORD your God, walking in his ways and revering him. 7 For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land—a land with streams and pools of water, with springs flowing in the valleys and hills; 8 a land with wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; 9 a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills.
10 When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the LORD your God for the good land he has given you. 11 Be careful that you do not forget the LORD your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day. 12 Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down, 13 and when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied, 14 then your heart will become proud and you will forget the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. 15 He led you through the vast and dreadful desert, that thirsty and waterless land, with its venomous snakes and scorpions. He brought you water out of hard rock. 16 He gave you manna to eat in the desert, something your fathers had never known, to humble and to test you so that in the end it might go well with you. 17 You may say to yourself, "My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me." 18 But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today.
19 If you ever forget the LORD your God and follow other gods and worship and bow down to them, I testify against you today that you will surely be destroyed. 20 Like the nations the LORD destroyed before you, so you will be destroyed for not obeying the LORD your God. Deuteronomy 8
What is this passage saying? Do not forget the Lord! Remember the Lord your God! Each day is a new day, with new experiences, new opportunities, new trials-over time it can be easy to forget. So how can we remember the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord? (Psalm 78:4) Faithbooking. Whether it is in your scrapbooks with pictures and journaling and expressing yourself with your God-given talent or in a journal documenting your memories, thoughts and explorations of your faith! We are told in Deuteronomy 11:19, “Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Children enjoy flipping through scrapbooks, reading about our thoughts on this particular day. What better way to teach our children our faith, by documenting our faith right next to their picture! Even if your kids are not old enough to read yet, you can look through your albums together and tell them. When they grow up and leave home, send them with a keepsake album of their own that they can turn to in those tough times on their own! And remember… Verse 2 really stuck out to me, “to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.” In times of trial, God was working in you and preparing you for what was to come. It is important to document the trials as well and to remember how God pulled you through. What greater testimony for your kids as they face trials of their own! Even if you don’t have kids, what about other family members and friends. Of course, you will want to remember all that God as done for you and your family-not just your trials. Remembering in every situation God is in it with us. “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Faither of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1:17 Remembering in all occasions...in birth, God is the giver of life...in death...to be in the presence of the Lord...in marriage...God is Love...in any accomplishment...God has given you the ability...Remember God when your belly is full...Remember God when things are going good. There are many more occurrences in the Bible that we are told to remember. How will you remember?

New Focus

2005-07-04T07:42:00.000-06:00

I recently changed the focus of my website http://www.FaithfullyYours.net to faithbooking. I have added a resource page with articles, a concordance, links and more. I have added a gallery to share layouts, ideas and projects for inspiration! I have added a forum to share, ask questions and fellowship with other faithbookers. And finally, I have redone the store and have added new and fresh faithbooking products!(with more to come)

I will admit, I have neglected this blog. I have been just posting from my monthly newsletter and added a few supporting verses and that's it. Pretty pathetic! With the new site focus, I have questioned the continuance of this blog. And then I thought I would just change the focus on my blog as well. The website is primarily for scrapbooking, where the blog can explore the journaling side of faithbooking. More exact-my personal journaling!

I intend to share my "God Moments" with you through this blog. I recently, picked up the book "God Moments" by Alan D. Wright. I have not had the chance to read it yet, but it already has me thinking about how I can see God's work in me on a daily basis. I think we tend to see everyday experiences as coincidences, when actually it is God's work! I hope to become more aware of God in my daily life and share it here with you! Also, with 4 girls, "kid's say the cutest things" might creep its way in here as well. Which reminds me...

Answered Prayer

2005-07-04T05:44:00.000-06:00

This particular morning I was a basket case, tearing my house apart looking for my debit card. I had the girls helping, I was very short tempered and could barely think straight. The older girls took the younger ones downstairs to play and “stay out of mommy’s hair” so I could concentrate and find it. Well, I found it! And of all places, it was in my Bible! I had placed an order online for my daughter’s birthday and used the card for that. Later I was working on my monthly newsletter in which I explore a verse. And therefore, had my Bible right by my computer as well. But the best part of this story is when I told my girls I had found the card and apologized for being a crazy woman. They told me that while they were downstairs they had prayed to God that I would find the card and be in a better mood. And it worked! Just had to share…

Matthew 14:16-20

2005-06-28T09:12:00.000-06:00

Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” “We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered. “Bring them here to me,” he said. And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied…
Matthew 14:16-20

From my newsletter:

When I first decided to change the focus of the website to faithbooking, I began wondering how I was going to financially add all these exciting new products to the store. Shortly thereafter, I received a credit card offer in the mail offering 0% interest for an introductory period. Boy was I tempted to go shopping! After all, I had time to pay it back before the interest rate went up, right? But I knew in my heart, that God would not want my business starting out in debt. Feeling a little bummed, I received a devotional in my inbox about the “feeding of the 5000”. The people were hungry and the disciples wanted to send the people into the village to buy their own food. But Jesus did not want to miss out on an opportunity to teach or to glorify God. So he used what little resources he had on hand-5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. So I thought, “what resources to I already have on hand?” Well, I have been busy selling inventory from a previous business, cleaning out my closets, organizing my garage/house, creating items with supplies on hand, having sales and babysitting the neighbor kids. Slowly, I have been building up the business account and finally reached my goal! So be on the lookout soon for products from Crossed Paths and a few more surprises!

Supporting verses:
8Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked, "You of little faith, why are you talking among yourselves about having no bread? 9Do you still not understand? Don't you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? 10Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? Matthew 16:8-10

He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. When he had taken the seven loaves and given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people, and they did so. Mark 8:6

Psalm 78:4

2005-06-01T15:13:00.000-06:00

We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord. Psalm 78:4

From my newsletter:

This month’s verse will look familiar to you when you see the new site. I have incorporated this verse in the new logo. Our main goal in our faithbooks is to pass on our faith to our children. As they look through them, they will be constantly reminded of who you are, what your relationship with God is and how important that faith has been in your life as well as in their lives. If they don’t “see” this on a daily basis they will soon forget and grow apart from God. This is a reoccurring theme throughout the Bible. God’s people are blessed and living an abundant life. But then they forget and before long start worshipping idols and going against God. And then when the going gets tough, the people start crying out to God for mercy! We need to keep God in the forefront at all times before we stray and have to cry out for help as well!

Supporting verses:
Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them. 10 Remember the day you stood before the LORD your God at Horeb, when he said to me, "Assemble the people before me to hear my words so that they may learn to revere me as long as they live in the land and may teach them to their children.
Dt4:9-10

Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. Dt 6:7-9

Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Dt 11:19

proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds. Ps 26:7

Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. Ps 71:17

2 Timothy 1:5

2005-04-25T16:40:00.000-06:00

I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 2 Timothy 1:5

From my newsletter:

As we come upon Mother’s Day, we want to honor and remember all the wonderful things our mothers have done for us. As a mother myself, I appreciate and understand my mother even more! I think about the sacrifices she made for my brother and I and the things she did out of love, not out of necessity. I particularly remember this when my own daughters request something of me that I am not really interested in doing, but remember my mother being there and providing for me!

This month’s verse comes from 2 Timothy 1:5 and reminds us what is really important in our roles as mothers. There isn’t much mention of these two remarkable women in the Bible, but Timothy must have been heavily influenced in the home. Their faith and belief helped Timothy become a believer, trusted friend to Paul and respected leader in the church. As a mother and/or grandmother we have the greatest influence over our children. Are you passing down your faith to your children? We will be discussing more about this later with faithbooks!

Supporting verses:
sincere faith
The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. 1 Timothy 1:5

He came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was a Jewess and a believer, but whose father was a Greek. Acts 16:1

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
2 Timothy 3:14-15

Luke 10:40-42

2005-03-29T19:29:00.000-06:00

But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Luke 10:40-42

I have recently picked up the book “Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World” by Joanna Weaver. Anyone else read this book? I am thoroughly enjoying it and have almost completed it. However, I would love to read it again, slower, and discuss it with others who are reading as well. Will you like to join me in a group book discussion? If anyone is interested, please send me a quick email and we can work out the details.

Back to the verse of the month...I admit it, I’m a Martha. Any other Martha’s in the group? Or are you a Mary? Don’t you think Jesus’ response could have been something like this, “Martha, don’t you care that your Lord and master is here and you are too busy to sit and listen?” Ouch! Sometimes as mothers we can get too wrapped up in our daily to do’s that we don’t have time for what really matters-our spiritual life, our husband, our children! Although I believe Martha was secure in Jesus’ love for her to make such a comment! Are you that secure? Mary knew what was important and took time for some much needed time with her Lord! When we spend time with our Lord, we will become renewed and refreshed empowering us with the energy we need to make it through the day and knock out our to do list!

Supporting verses:

don't you care
Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don't you care if we drown?” He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” Mark 4:38-41

worry
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matt. 6:25-34

one thing is needed
One thing I ask of the LORD , this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD
all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. Psalm 27:4

More of Mary and Martha...
When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home. John 11:20

Is this role reversal or has Martha's faith increased?

“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.” John 11:21-22

We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly man who does his will. John 9:31

Jesus was more than Martha's friend, he was her Messiah. Martha knew this and was prepared for what came next.

Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”
Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
“Yes, Lord,” she told him, “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.” John 11:23-27

I would love to hear from you! Thanks for reading!

James 1:6

2005-03-04T11:37:00.000-06:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you have the devil sitting on one shoulder telling you “you can’t do that!” or “who do you think you are?” or “what makes you think you ….” and then on the other shoulder is the angel saying “you can do this” or “you bring something different…” and fill your head with great ideas that really excite you! And then the devil starts talking again. Ok, maybe you haven’t, but you have seen it in cartoons or on tv sometime, right? Well, that happened to me earlier this week. This week we also bought new mattresses with our tax check. I was soo looking forward to going to bed and wouldn’t you know I was wide awake! Plus my 3 year old wasn’t ready for bed either, keeping me from falling asleep. As I laid there in bed trying to fall asleep and thinking about the conversation that happened earlier on my shoulders, “James” kept popping in my head. I wanted to get up and see what the book of James had to say about my struggle, but I didn’t want Kori to get up with me and not go to sleep. Anyway, the next morning, before the girls woke up, I had my quiet time and starting reading James. It didn’t take me long to find what I was looking for!

“But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.” James 1:6

You see, a few weeks ago I was contemplating shutting down FaithfullyYours. I was wondering if it was worth it, for myself as well as my customers. After prayerful consideration, I felt led by God that I should not quit working on Faithfully Yours! But somehow this week, I started to question that and lost faith. Here I had asked God, received my answer, and then started doubting it! I can’t believe I had the audacity to doubt God! What was I thinking? Actually, I am surprised to be sharing this with you. But I am hoping, by sharing my story, it will “speak” to someone else and help in some way!

Before going on, I would like to share the verses leading up to and following this verse.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
James 1:2-5

That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does. James 1:7-8

Supporting verse:

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24

Throughout scripture, the disciples doubted Jesus and their faith severly lacked. But what did Jesus say?

He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. Matthew 8:26
and
He replied, “Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." Matthew 17:20

So what should we do when we doubt?
Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, “Don't be afraid; just believe.”
Mark 5:36
or
The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” Luke 17:5
and
My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on 's power. 1Co 2:4,5

Please share your thoughts...

John 3:16

2005-02-15T13:17:00.000-06:00

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosever believeth in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16

From my newsletter:

This week’s verse is probably one of the most popular or most memorized verse, by children and adults, in the Bible! At first glance, this verse can be considered complex or deep. But, I think we tend to complicate things, when actually this verse is quite simplistic. Can you imagine? All we have to do believe! That’s it! A powerful statement of both judgment and redemption in one verse! And most importantly, God’s love for us!

Supporting verses:

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions–it is by grace you have been saved. Ephesians 2:4,5

This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 1 John 4:9,10

Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” John 6:29

For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:40

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
John 11:25,26

I finally designed my first faithbooking set based on this verse! Visit www.FaithfullyYours.net for more information!

Joshua 1:7

2005-02-08T13:08:00.000-06:00

Verse of the week:
Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.
Joshua 1:7

From my newsletter:

Success! I think everyone as a different definition of success! The American Heritage dictionary defines success as the achievement of something desired, planned or attempted. 2 The gain of fame or prosperity. I think the world concentrates too much on the second definition. When we should probably look at the last word in the first definition-attempted! How can you be a success, if you don’t even attempt it? I know I often fall into the trap of defining my success for the day by how many tasks I have crossed off on my to do list. When I should be content that I crossed off even one! If that one item was done to the best of my ability and whole-heartedly. God has a plan for me and it may not be to fulfill my to do list!
I realized that the intention for the verse of the week is for you to use it in your own faithbooking. For now though, we will set aside our “photo” faithbooks and concentrate on the journal faithbooks as you journal about your thoughts on these verses with me. And someday, I will be ready to work on our photos and passing down our faith! Please be patient with me...

Supporting verses:

Isaac asked his son, "How did you find it so quickly, my son?" "The LORD your God gave me success," he replied. Gen 27:20

When his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD gave him success in everything he did Gen 39:3

2 Timothy 1:12

2005-01-31T15:31:00.000-06:00

From my newsletter:

I don’t know if I have mentioned this before, but my husband as well as working a full-time job and soccer coach, he is also a full-time minister at a small church. Last week and this past Sunday, he has been preaching on your faith and trust in God. Are you in control of your life? Or do you put it in God’s hands? I have had a couple issues that I have been struggling with as far as what I wanted to do. And so this morning, I put them in God’s hands. I am so at peace now! I feel I can now move forward without worrying if I made the right decision. I don’t have to hold back, but strive towards what is ahead. Have you guessed why the upcoming change with Faithfully Yours has happened? :) Another issue I have put in God’s hands is homeschooling. I will start homeschooling my girls next fall. I am excited to start preparing and learning!

Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day. 2 Timothy 1:12

This verse was actually a devotion I read yesterday morning. Once again, God has perfect timing! Do you have a decision to make? Put it in God’s hands and see what happens!

Supporting verses:

Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have wandered from the faith. 1 Timothy 6:20

May the Lord grant that he will find mercy from the Lord on that day! You know very well in how many ways he helped me in Ephesus. 2 Timothy 1:18

God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. Hebrews 6:10-12

2 Samuel 22:33

2005-01-26T07:04:00.000-06:00

I wasn't going to write this week, but then thought this is my blog and I don't have to stick to my format. Although I am a bit anal and this is hard to do. :) It has been a rough week with my 3 year old being sick, up all night and my 5 year old home one day sick as well. I hurt my back keeping me from my computer or anything else for too long. And then there is the drama that always seems to be happening! Plus I keep second-guessing myself and what I want for my business. So needless to say I am feeling drained, tired and unmotivated! So what verse shall I turn to for help...

It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. 2 Samuel 22:33

I am turning to God to give me the strength to make it through today and realize everything happens for a reason! I know God has perfect timing and is working in me for His plan. One good thing is my friend who has been going through a rough time lately(the drama) has been reading the bible we had given her. I believe her faith is becoming stronger and she is getting closer to accepting Jesus in her life! I have been trying to be a better friend and more available instead of being too wrapped up in my own life.

Can this pertain to faithbooking? Well, if your writing in a faithbook journal and you find yourself having a rough day then turning to this verse and journaling about it will hopefully benefit you as well. If you are faithbooking with pictures, have you been able to capture a moment when things weren't going right, but by turning to God for strength it all worked out. What a great way to share your faith through the journaling of that experience!

Well, that's all for now! Have a great week!

Faithfully,

Dawn

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

2005-01-20T10:45:00.000-06:00

Verse of the week:Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.1 Corinthians 13:4-8

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I guess "love is in the air!" As I mentioned in my newsletter, we tend to associate love with that warm fuzzy feeling inside, when actually it is anything but. Perhaps in the "honeymoon" stage you can find no fault with your spouse. You are patient, kind, are willing to do anything for that someone special! But then the honeymoon is over, and reality sets in. Loveis not a feeling, but a constant work in progress. We must continually strive to bemore patient, not self-seeking, trusting, and perserving in our marriage. I hope andpray you will think of these things each and every day!

Supporting verses:
And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.1 Th 5:14

blessed is he who is kind to the needy. Pr 14:21

but envy rots the bones. Pr 14:30

May I never boast except in the cross Gal 6:14

Do not be proud, but be willing Ro 12:16

Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others. 1 Cor10:24

slow to anger, abounding in love Ex 34:6

If you, O Lord, kept a record of sins, Ps 130:3

and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness. 2 Th 2:12

It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us. 2 Jn 4

It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. 3 Jn 3,4

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resonding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. 1 Cor 13:-3

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Cor 13:13
What are your thoughts on this verse? Perhaps you can utilize this verse in your faithbooking journal or scrapbook. Please share...thanks for reading!

Faithfully,

Dawn

Proverbs 13:22

2005-01-12T17:46:00.000-06:00

Verse of the week:A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children…Proverbs 13:22

In my newsletter, I discussed how important it is to leave a financial inheritance for our children, but more importantlyto pass along our values, morals, traditions and memories.To often we leave the teachings of our children to the schools,church and others, when we, as parents, are their best role models.Supporting verses tell it all...

Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6
Fathers,do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. Eph 6:4

For I have chosen him , so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just, so that the Lord will bring about for Abraham what he has promised him. Ge 18:19

Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them. Dt 4:9

Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Dt 6:7

What we have heard and known, what our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done. Ps 78:3-4

I think as parents we struggle daily to raise our children in the way of the Lord. However, we must still strive to do our best and must lead by example. We can't give up or slack off, for when wedo it is only a matter of time before our children(if not ourselves)have wandered in the wrong direction and away from our Lord. What are your thoughts about this verse?

1 Samuel 12:24

2005-01-04T20:21:00.000-06:00

It is my goal to explore a new verse weekly. Perhaps you can take the verse and express what it means to you in your faithbooking journal. Do you have pictures that convey what the verse means, then add to your faithbooking scrapbook. I would love to see your work, hear your comments and thoughts.

Verse of the week:But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all our heart: consider what great things he has done for you. 1 Samuel 12:24

First, let's break the verse down in sections and explore supporting verses.

But be sure to fear the Lord
-So that you, your children and their children after them may fear the Lord your God as long as you live by keeping all his decrees and commands that I give you, and so that you may enjoy long life. Dt 6:2
-Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. Ecc.12:13

Throughout the Old Testament, the Israelites would slowly start to move away fromGod, not telling their children about the wonders of God and eventually forget. Then terrible things start happening until again they cry out to God asking for forgiveness and help. We need to continually remember what God has done for us and tell our children so they too will not forget.

serve him faithfully with all your heart
-Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. Dt 6:5
-Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfullness. Jos 24:14

In whatever you do, put God first and nothing could possibly go wrong!
consider-because they turned from following him and had no regard for any of his ways. Job 34:27
-but they have no regard for the deeds of the Lord, no respect for the work of his hands. Isa 5:12
-YOu built a resevoir between the two walls for the water of the Old Pool, but you did not look to the One who made it, or have regard for the One who plannedit long ago. Isa 22:11
-Though grace is shown to the wicked, they do not learn righteousness; even in a land of uprightness they go on doing evil and regard not the majesty of the Lord. Isa 26:10
what great things he has done for you.
-He is your praise; he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesomewonders you saw with your own eyes. Dt 10:21

Remember your creator, who wonderfully and fearfully made you! Continually praise and thank him for everything He has done for you!

What does this verse mean to you?

Faithfully,

Dawn

What faithbooking is not...

2004-09-06T11:33:00.000-06:00

One thing I have seen that faithbooking is not, a “scrapbooking thing with creativity, paper, stickers and die-cuts”. Ok, this one I have a problem with. Perhaps because I am a crafty, creative person who enjoys making "pretty" things. While I understand the basis for this statement, to not spend extra time making pages pretty, but to concentrate on glorifying God. Here is my thing: my girls see me creating items for others. They craft with me. They know how I like to be creative as much as possible. So if I am working on faithbooking album to hand down to them and future generations how can I not express my creativity? I can see my girls asking me why I can make pretty items for others but not in their books? I think if I were to take away the "prettys" than I wouldn't be true to myself or the talents that God has given me. Does it take more time? Yes. Will it distract from the original intention? I don't think so. Some people can flip through an album quickly and others take their time. For those who take the time to read the journaling and get to know what is going on in the pictures, will be the ones touched. The "prettys" will just reinforce the rest. Ok, yes, this is something I feel pretty strongly about. I don't like attending scrapbooking parties that make me feel bad for wanting a pretty album. Enough said...

More on what faithbooking is...

2004-09-06T11:15:00.000-06:00

I have been researching the internet, trying to learn more about faithbooking. I have ran across several sites expressing their opinion on what faithbooking is and is not. Here is what I found:

*A means to express our faith. A journey of faith
*Ability to capture life's lessons that God teaches us.
*To remember God's faithfullness and presence in our daily lives.
*An eternal legacy for our children
*A witnessing tool
*An incredible, permanent reminder of our God Moments and His hand in our lives.
*Obedience to God’s command to remember what he has done for us. (Ps. 78:4)
*Scripture, Thoughts, Prayers, Blessings, Memories, Letters and Stories combined with our photographs to always remember our personal, spiritual journey with the Lord.

Many of the above were found at www.LisaWhelchel.com

While I believe the original term was meant for scrapbooking, you can still participate in faithbooking with journaling. If you are looking for a new journal, check out www.FaithfullyYours.net

Back to blogging...faithbooking!

2004-09-06T11:11:00.000-06:00

Well, when I first started this faithbooking blog last June, I thought with the lazy days of summer I would have plenty of time to explore this further. Well, I was wrong! :( With my four girls at home, half the neighborhood over, or cries of "Mom, I'm bored!", to "Mom..." and a busier summer than I expected, I kept putting the blog on the backburner. Now the girls are back in school, my youngest in preschool freeing up a couple hours a day and so I can once again start sharing my thoughts on faithbooking. I would also love to hear your thoughts on faithbooking!

So, what is faithbooking?

2004-06-21T12:48:00.000-06:00

There are many methods and benefits of faithbooking. However, faithbooking can be what you want it to be. A quick way to get started and to incorporate your faith in your scrapbooks is by simply adding scripture to your pages. Verses can be used literally or figuratively. By incorporating a verse on your layout, you are reinforcing God's word to your family, friends and yourself. This is the easiest way to get started. However, don't stop here, dig deeper into your faith. You should, of course, pray about it. Ask God what he wants you to get out of your faithbooking. Perhaps, he will reveal a particular verse to you. Here is a verse to close with: "We will not hide them from their children: we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deed of the Lord, this power, and the wonders He has done." Psalm 78:4

Where did faithbooking originate?

2004-06-18T07:31:00.000-06:00

In my research, I believe the term "faithbooking" originated from Rhonda Anderson, co-founder of Creative Memories and co-author of Creative Memories Way. In an article, she wrote: "I began doing what I call "faithbooking" — creating a photo album specifically with the stories of miraculous moments in my life. We are in essence recording history and helping ourselves remember the memorable times God has intervened, reached out and changed our lives. Now, as my family and I look at our faithbook albums, our faith grows as never before." To read this article, visit http://www.family.org/focusoverfifty/lifewise/a0022748.html

Welcome

2004-06-18T07:25:00.000-06:00

Welcome to my Weblog on faithbooking. What is faithbooking? I first seen the term in a scrapbooking magazine interview with Lisa Whelchel. I went to her site looking for more information. It referenced a faithbooking class at her Mom Retreats, but no real information on what it was. Then I saw a short post referencing faithbooking on a christian list I am on. This prompted me to do some research and learn more about faithbooking. My intentions are to share those findings here. I welcome your comments, criticisms, and suggestions. Post or email me! Thanks for reading.