So, This is Personal

 It's six in the morning. I usually wake up around this time and simply lay here in the quiet. I feel the urge to really get up and spend time by myself and with God, but then the rest of me says that sleep is just way too good to pass up! So what do I do? I usually just continue to lay here. Conviction.

I've really been convicted lately, of a lot of things...

I've often heard God tell me how He wants me to get up early with Him, but I always seem 

to stay up really late. In turn, I'm always too tired to wake up early.

I've been convicted of not reading enough of the Word. That I've got the time but that 

I rarely use it in a way that might benefit my heart and spirit.

I've been convicted of not reading enough of the Word to Hannah. Believe me, there 

is POWER in the name of Jesus. Praying with her, I can sense that God is moving in her 

heart just through our prayers together...but reading the Word, is just as important!

I've been convicted on not trying to look "cute" for my husband.

So random, I know! But God knows what He's doing. He has opened my eyes more and more to the things in my life that COULD be, if only I sought Him out and brought my family along on the journey!

I think it might be funny, though, that God has been urging me to get up early to read and spend time with Him, but I am always falling asleep. Do I need to get up and drive somewhere else in the mornings so that I can focus or something? I might have to.

It's like I keep choosing the easy or comfortable way and as a result, I'm not receiving in full the transformation that God has called me to. 

Shouldn't I be remembering the results of my young passion in Christ and be in awe because He can move in me like that again??? Shouldn't I be do ANYTHING I can to get back into His presence, where I can hear His every Word to me and see His every move??? Oh, how I miss the days that God felt so close and so real!

I have gone through, what I feel like, has been a season of grace. I have been covered in His love and not forgotten, but I've kind of forgotten Him.

Raising our first child has left me in chaos trying to learn how to live life all over again. It felt so chaotic that I didn't see that I still had time for God on a daily basis! Don't get me wrong, I have spent hours reading His Word and praying with Him. Reading to Hannah and praying for her daddy together. But there's something different when you are really pursuing God. Do you know what I mean?


I can read His Word and talk to Him. I can spend time in the Word to gain encouragement and insight, but am I really pursuing His heart???

THIS is my conviction.


I've got time. I've got lots of time. I'm a stay-at-home mom. I can drop what I'm doing at almost any time of day and pursue Him! So why don't I?

God uses the mundane. He uses everything we go through and all our life circumstances to grow us. To make us more like Christ. I fully believe that, and for some, that is simply where they are supposed to be. And that's OKAY! But I believe that God is calling me to step back out onto the field. I have gone through my season of grace, my season of practical learning, and now He's telling me it's time to get up.



So where do I start? What do I do? Do I get up early every morning to be with Him? Yes, because He told me specifically to do so! Do I need to find a way to stay awake so that I can obey Him and read the Bible? Yes, I fully believe so. If I need to get out and drive somewhere to stay awake, then that's what I need to do! Do I just pick any book of the Bible and start reading? I guess so! 


This verse has always been written on my heart. It has stayed with me my entire life, or for as long as I can remember...

Isaiah 55:11 | "so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." (NIV via Bible Gateway)



There is PURPOSE in God's Word and it will ALWAYS be used! I think of this every time I start to jump back into the Bible and I never feel like I'm getting anything out of it.


So what's stopping me from pursuing God like I'm being told? Like I want to? Like I need to?

Or am I just hindering myself?

I started to pick up the Bible this morning, when I felt more led to pour out my heart on paper. I felt like I wasn't receiving anything from reading. I've just finished reading Ephesians and now I am not too sure what to read next! We just finished reading Philippians in my mom's group, so, Colossians? I guess so.

Just READ. That's what I keep telling myself. Just READ! God will use whatever I read in some way, even if I don't see it immediately. 

I'm preaching to myself when I say this...

JUST DO IT!!! Whatever God has urged me to do, I need to do it...whatever it may be. JUST DO IT! However I need to accomplish it, I JUST need to DO IT! 
Quit choosing a little bit of sleep over alone time with God. That's just stupid, Stephanie. You know how to manage your time, at least well enough to know how to go to bed early and wake up early! Stephanie, get up. Get up and pursue your Father, that PERFECT Father who would do anything for you to see His glory and truth! Pursue Him!!! JUST DO IT!!!

2 Peter 1:3 | "His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness." (NIV via Bible Gateway)


I am reminded that I have no excuse, because He's given me everything I could need for a godly life. The life God has called me to live. 

Again, everyone is in a different season of life. Some are on fire and pursuing the ministry they have always dreamed of and prayed about and others are living a more routine life, mundane and a little boring. God has called each of us to bloom FULLY where He has planted us. Some of you may know that you are where you are supposed to be, and others, like me, know that God is calling them to change!

God has been calling me to change! And He's reminding me (simply through writing all this out) that I have all that it takes to wake up early and really dive into His Word and into His presence! I have all that it takes to open the Bible throughout the day and read His Word! I have all that it takes to read His Word to my little girl and to teach her about God! (Teaching Toddlers about God post is right here.) I have everything it takes to get up early enough to make myself presentable before my husband!

So what's my excuse? What's holding me back?

JUST DO IT!!!

10 MORE Uses for Distilled White Vinegar {Part 2}

Welcome to 10 Uses for Distilled White Vinegar!
If you have not read Part 1 or Part 2, you should do so! Lots of awesome tips!

This is my third post on the topic and let's just say I have done my share of research on the matter! I love love LOVE using vinegar! It gets rid of odors, cleans tough-to-clean surfaces and is helpful in so many other ways!

10 MORE Uses for Distilled White Vinegar! {Part2}

21. Daily Cleaner

I use a mix of vinegar and water (sometimes I even put essential oils in there!) to clean pretty much every surface in my house! The kitchen, bathroom, living room, kids room, bedroom, etc. It is safe to use anywhere and it's a great disinfectant as well!

22. Glass Cleaner 

Combine 1 cup of water, 1/2 cup of vinegar and a dab of liquid dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray directly onto surface and wipe down with crumpled newspaper or a clean soft cloth.

23. Repels Ants

Spray vinegar wherever you have seen ants and the strong smell will be like a repellant to them!

24. Rescue Boiled Eggs

If an egg starts to crack while being boiled, adding a little vinegar to the water will stop the egg white from seeping out.

25. Get Rid of Deodorant Marks

Spray a little bit of vinegar onto deodorant stains before putting them into the washing machine.

26. Keep Cut Flowers Blooming

Add 2 tbsp of vinegar to a vase, fill with water and add flowers to keep cut blooms looking fresh longer.

27. Freshen Dishcloths

Place cloths in a container and cover with water and 1/2 cup of vinegar. Soak for a few hours, then thoroughly rinse before using.

 28. Sanitize Children's Toys

Fill up a clean bucket (or bathtub) with hot water and a cup or two of vinegar. Let the toys soak, then lay out on a towel or cloth and let air dry. - See more at: http://blog.hgtv.com/design/2012/10/09/home-survival-skills-15-amazing-uses-for-vinegar/#sthash.YOZVAh8b.dpuf

Fill up a clean bucket (or bathtub) with hot water and a cup or two of vinegar. Let the toys soak, then lay out on a towel or cloth and let air dry. - See more at: http://blog.hgtv.com/design/2012/10/09/home-survival-skills-15-amazing-uses-for-vinegar/#sthash.YOZVAh8b.dpuf

 Fill up a clean bucket or bathtub with hot water and a cup or two of vinegar. Let the toys soak, then lay them out on a towel to air dry.

29. Make Wood Floor Shine (Read Directions)

Spritz a solution of warm water, a few teaspoons of olive oil, and vinegar onto the floor, then polish with a soft cloth.

30. Make Your Dishes Sparkle

Rinse your dishes in a mixture of water and vinegar. Polish silver with undiluted vinegar for a crystal clear shine.



I have done many of these, but there are still a couple that I'd like to try out!
Have you tried any of these? Did they work?
I'd love your input!



Today's information found through:
PopularMechanics.com
TheSimpleDollar.com
HGTV.com
&
Blog.Coles.Com.Au

Simple Ways to Show Love on a Busy Day

You've probably seen my previous post A Letter to My Brother, where I talked 

about him getting married and gave him some advice to which I have learned over my 

short (three years) time of being married. Well, this is in response to the chaos of wedding weekends.

We so often get so busy that it's hard to show our significant other those loving touches,

 caring words and flirtatious attitude. I was surprised with how easily my husband and I were able to express love to each even though it felt like we hardly saw each other. So I'd like to share 

some things that I noticed worked for us now and have worked for in the past!

BE PHYSICAL

Be physical whenever you can!
Rest your head on his shoulders if you're having to stand around for a minute.

Grab hands even if it's just for a split second.

Touch his or her back or waist gently as you pass by.

Hug him/her tightly whenever you can pause for two seconds.

BE FLIRTATIOUS

Use your eyes and body language to flirt from across the room!
Create and use code words that only your spouse will understand.

Give him/her a quick tap on the bottom as you walk on by.

 For the ladies: do a little model walk to get his attention!
Make eye contact and smile.

LEAVE A NOTE

I like to leave Chris sweet messages sometimes by writing on our mirror or on 

our washing machine with a dry erase marker.
In college I used to leave sticky notes on his steering wheel.
Write a letter when you have time, and on a busy day, slip it into his/her pocket. 

ACTS OF SERVICE

If your spouse is busy, bring him/her a drink or snack.
Be in tune with what he may need and help him out if you can.
If you're spouse is busy, do a chore that is on her to-do list.

BE VERBAL

Text or e-mail her throughout the day.

Give praise and show appreciation.


I hope you find these helpful! And I hope you find more ways to show your 

spouse love on those busy busy days!

If you liked this, you might also like:

1. 50 WAYS to Show Your Husband You LOVE HIM
via Mindy at Busy Bliss

2. 30 Ways to Love Your Husband

via Darlene at Time Warp Wife

Becoming RESPONSIBLE for Teaching Your Toddler the Ways of God

This is going to be a short and sweet post compared to some of my others, 

but I was given a "wake up call" this week as I was writing in my journal. 

I am RESPONSIBLE for raising my child.

Not just teaching her what an elbow is or how to put trash in the trash can, but real life stuff. 

How to speak to others, how to be forgiving, how to love...

I enjoy looking back at my journal entries from last year! 

I love to see where our marriage was, what Hannah's new tricks were at the time 

and what all was going on at the Strasburger household. I haven't written in it in least a month, 

so I thought it was about time that I updated it.

So I wrote about lots of things going on (baby #2, Love Languages, Jesus, my brother 

getting married, personal convictions) but what hit me was when I started writing about how much smarter Hannah has gotten in the past week and how she is growing up so quickly! She's only eighteen months and she is so smart for a toddler! She so badly wants to do everything that her mommy and daddy do!

She knows how to say an entirely new list of words and can now show you where 

her cheeks, knees, legs, armpits and elbows are! 

She is starting to make statements like "no mama, no", "bye bye daddy", 

"night night baby" and yesterday she told her baby brother/sister "Hi baby!" 

She likes it when I "put deodorant on her armpits" and she loves it when I paint her toe nails! 

She likes brushing her own teeth, brushing her own hair, and wiping her own booty!

I am telling you...she is growing up WAY TOO FAST!!!
She understands so much more than I ever thought an 18 month old would and surprises 

me every day with new things she's learned!

So it hit me as I was writing all this down (in my journal) that it is no longer my only responsibility 

to simply teach her how to DO stuff, but now I have to teach her how to speak, listen, love, 

be a woman, and to pursue God. 

I've never had to really worry too much about how I act around her or what I say until now. I might be a little terrified as more and more I realize that I am responsible for my actions while leading and raising her---that I am responsible for guiding her to Christ and raising her to KNOW God and His Word!

I have no idea how I am going to accomplish this. I guess I am just going to have
to take one day at a time, even one minute at a time, and just remember what I have been taught all these years.

All I know is...

I am responsible in teaching my toddler about this world and more importantly, the ways of God.

It's now time for me to teach her so much more!

A Letter to my Brother | You're Getting Married Today

You're getting married today. 

Wow.

Can I just pause and take a breath?
You are getting married...today.

I have so many stories!!!

I remember the many times that we stayed up to the wee hours of the night
talking about God, relationships, parents, school, and life. I remember how many
times you asked me how school was and I responded with "shut up!" I am so so sorry, David.

I remember watching your relationship grow with Chris and how much it meant
to me to see you two really enjoying each other. I remember all the times that you,
me and Stacy stayed up watching funny youtube videos. Laughing the night away.

I remember all the times you walked into a room and whatever you said was always
something that convicted us and you had no idea what you had even said. (You know what I mean.)
I remember how you stayed with Chris and I for weeks when Hannah was first born and how you would wake up and check on me whenever Hannah was crying and I had to change her diaper at 4am.

I have seen the joy in your eyes whenever you've met your new nephew and your new niece.

I have seen cry. I have seen you laugh so hard that you can't breathe. I have seen you angry. I have seen you disappointed. and I have seen you so happy that you've actually jumped in
place (asking Chelsea out was one of those times). I remember how annoying
you were as a little brother. Haha...

But let me tell you something...

I have seen you GROW!!!

I have been able to witness with my own two eyes how smart, intelligent, generous,
loving, caring, compassionate, passionate, hard-working, understanding, respectable, fearless,
confident, genuine, honest, and just straight out KIND you have become!

I have seen you fall in love with Jesus Christ and I have seen you fall in love with Chelsea!

I have seen you speak TRUTH (God's truth) and I have seen your confidence in Him!

You make me proud. Very very proud.

 I have some things to tell you as you enter into this marriage. 

They are things that I have learned and some things that I KNOW Chris has learned.

<<<<<<<<<<<< >>>>>>>>>>>

David,


I have sooo many pieces of advice to give you. Trust me, 
I spent hours on this and then deleted it all in the end. 
There will come another day that I can share in detail all 
my learning's in my own marriage. Here is what I have to say to you:


You have TIME. You have TIME to get into the Word 
and TIME to be with and love on your wife (and future kids). Don't be fooled otherwise. (If you literally are so busy that you have no time, something needs to be cut off.)


If you never know what to do in a situation, remember this:
BE HUMBLE. BE HUMBLE. BE HUMBLE. 
SERVE HER. BLESS HER. LOVE HER. BE PATIENT.
(Ex: If you've been hurt or you're angry, but you know 
God has called you to love your wife...humble yourself and 
serve her and you will be amazed at how quickly God 
will change your attitude and desires! Take it as a challenge if you have to. "Anger, you do NOT own me! I am NOT a slave to you! I WILL serve and love my wife!")


God's timing is not our own, but in our journey He has 
given us ALL that we could possibly need in order to become the godly men and women He has planned for us to be! (2 Peter 1:3)


Be patient. Marriage is growth. 
E V E R Y T H I N G in marriage involves personal growth, 
and personal growth takes time (a lifetime in fact).
 
PRAY for and with your spouse!
Talk about your future desires and plans...A LOT
 Talk about the memories you've made together...A LOT
Be honest. Don't keep secrets. Any. It will hurt your 
marriage even when your spouse is in the dark. 
It affects our attitudes and our desires before we even realize it.


Give your wife a thousand kisses everyday! 
Even if it seems like she is too busy or doesn't want them. 
Flirt with her daily! Make it a goal to make her squeal and 
giggle at some point every day! 


God has made you ONE and with that said: 
If one of you is hurting, struggling, or straying away 
from God, it affects you both!  The same goes vice versa. 
Go after God and your spouse will follow in due time!  
Remember, that as ONE, each of you has needs. Do not withhold these needs, no matter what they are. YOU are your spouses partner in life. No one else plays your role.

Laugh with each other. 
Date each other. 
Make time for each other. 
Uplift each other.
 

Marriage is not just about being married, being able 
to be together every day and every night, it is not just 
about our happiness, (although God plans to give you an overflowing amount of joy, pleasure and love in marriage)
 but rather to bring us to becoming more and more like Christ. Holy. Remember this on the harder days and NEVER GIVE UP!



I love you both so much and I am so excited for you!
Marriage has been one of the most thrilling things I have ever been through in my life! I am far more in love with Chris today than I was when I "fell in love" with him (all because of Christ). Chris and I pray for you both often! We absolutely love you and we cannot wait to see how God uses you and what men and women you become in His arms!

May the Lord of Lords and King of Kings 
bring you peace and joy and grace!

Your Sis,
Stephanie

Pink or Blue? What's it Gonna Be?

(I'm not even that big yet, but this is my view, haha!)

So, we find out in just a few short days what we will be having. I am stoked!!! I am so ready to go shopping for this little munchkin and I can't wait to be able to call him/her by a name!

I thought it would be fun to check out some old wives tales to see what I might be having during the wait!

We have a boys name picked out but I am still unsure if I like the girl's name we have picked out! So with that said, you guys will find out when we do! :)

1. Heart Rate: If the bpm of the baby is higher than 140, it's a girl. If it's lower than 140, it's a boy. 

CONCLUSION: Girl!

2. Acne: Basically, if you've got lots of acne, you're having a girl. If your face is clear, you're having a boy. 

CONCLUSION: Girl!

3. Cravings: If you're craving sweets, you're probably having a girl. If you're craving salty things, you're probably having a boy. 

CONCLUSION: Boy!

4. Legs: It may be too early to tell, but if you gain weight in your legs you're having a boy. If you're legs stay in shape, then you're having a girl. 

CONCLUSION: Girl!

5. Moody: If you're more moody, then you're having a girl. Less moody, then you're having a boy. 

CONCLUSION: Boy!

6. Chinese Gender Chart: According to their sweet calendars and such, they say that the 

CONCLUSION is: Girl!

7. Dreams: They say if you dream about having a boy, then you're have a girl and vice versa. 

CONCLUSION: Girl!

8. Clumsy or Graceful?: Are you clumsy? Then you're having a boy! Are you graceful? Then you're having a girl! 

CONCLUSION: Girl!

9. Side You Rest on the Most: Do you sleep more on your left side or your right side? If you sleep more on your left side, then you are having a boy. If you sleep on your right side, then you are having a girl. 

CONCLUSION: Boy!

10. Has Daddy Gained Weight?: If the dad gains weight, then it's a girl. If he stays his same weight, it's a boy. 

CONCLUSION: Boy!

11. What do You Think?: 71% of the time, the mom-to-be's opinion is right! 

CONCLUSION: Boy!

12. Protein: Do you crave meats and cheese? If so, then you are probably having a boy! 

CONCLUSION: Boy! 

(Do you not read all my posts about chicken and cheesy bread???)

13. Feet: Are your feet colder than usual or the same? Colder means boy. 

CONCLUSION: Girl!

14. Headaches: If you get headaches often, it means you're having a boy. 

CONCLUSION: Boy!

15. Urine: Bright yellow means boy. Dull yellow means girl. 

CONCLUSION: Girl!

16. Mayan Tales: Add your age during conception to the year of conception. If it's and odd number, it's a boy. If it's an even number, it's a girl. 

CONCLUSION: Boy!

17. Toddlers: If a boy toddler is interested in you, then you are having a girl. If he's not, then you're having a boy. (The same goes vice versa.) 

CONCLUSION: Girl!

18. Morning Sickness: Lots of morning sickness means you're having a girl. No/Less Morning sickness means you're having a boy. 

CONCLUSION: Girl!

19. Dry Hands: If your hands are constantly dry, then you're having a boy. 

CONCLUSION: Boy!

TOTAL BOY: 9

TOTAL GIRL: 10

So what's your opinion??? Pink or Blue???

10 MORE Uses for Distilled White Vinegar

Welcome to 10 Uses for Distilled White Vinegar! If you have not read Part 1, you should do so! Lots of awesome tips!

I said this before but I use vinegar all the time! I love learning more about how I can use it every day and so I have done a T O N of research recently!
Because I hate to give you a massive list right away, this is simply...Part 2!

It gets rid of odors, cleans tough-to-clean surfaces and is helpful in so many other ways!


10 MORE Uses for Distilled White Vinegar! 

11. Toilet Cleaner

Just toss a cup of vinegar into your toilet overnight and it will be a whole lot easier to scrub the stains off. 

12. Cleans Mold and Mildew
"A natural cleaner that kills mold, mildew, and bacteria, vinegar is an effective alternative to pricey bathroom cleaners. It will remove mineral deposits from sinks and faucets, and it will also clean the bathtub, ceramic tile in the shower, shower doors, and even the toilet. Spray it on and rinse it off with water. Stubborn mold or stains may require a second dose. Use a squeegee on the shower door to avoid water spots, and turn on the bathroom fan or open a window to vent the vinegar smell."

13. Remove Water Rings on Wood (Read Directions)

"Set a cold drink on your wood furniture without using a coaster and you’ll leave a round reminder not to do it again. To remove it, dip a white cloth in a mixture of equal parts vinegar and vegetable oil, and rub out the stain, wiping with the grain. Then clean the area with a dry cloth to make the wood shine. You can also remove water rings from leather furniture by dabbing them with vinegar on a cloth."

14. De-Clog a Shower Head

"The tiny openings in a shower head can get clogged over time from minerals such as calcium and magnesium that are in the water. If you don’t have a water softener, mineral deposits are even more likely to accumulate. To get your shower back to full power, fill a plastic bag with vinegar and place it over the shower head, then tie the bag tight to the shower arm. Let it sit overnight. Remove the bag in the morning, rinse off the shower head with water, then shower away. It’ll blast water like the day you bought it."

15. Helps Remove Grease
"Food just tastes better when it’s cooked on a grill. But dripping grease, splattered barbeque sauce, and stray pieces of meat can get baked onto the grates and become a bear to clean. Vinegar is a simple, safe way to clean them and allow you to fire up the grill and start cooking right away. Spray straight vinegar onto the grates, then scrub them with a wire or grill brush until they’re clean."

16. Remove Sticker or Price-Tag Residue

(This is one I have done many times and it works wonders!!) "We’ve all been there: You try to remove price tags from newly bought items, but the paper surface peels and leaves sticky residue behind. Rubbing it with a damp cloth typically won’t work, or at least not quickly. A better way is to wipe or spray with vinegar. Let it soak in for a couple minutes, then wipe away the debris with a paper towel or cloth. It’ll come right off. This process also works for decals on windows, and bumper stickers on vehicles."

17. Bring Back Shine to Old Silver/Jewelry

"Vinegar can bring back the shine to dull silver, including jewelry, vases, ornaments, and silverware. Let the silver soak in a mixture of vinegar and a tablespoon or two of baking soda. Keep your items in the mixture for about 15 minutes, then rinse them under warm water and polish dry with a soft cloth. If an item is too large to soak in the mixture, rub the solution on the silver and let it sit for 15 minutes or so, then rinse and polish."

18. Natural Weed Killer

"Lawn and garden stores typically sell weed killers that contain acetic acid, which is also found in vinegar. For an environmentally friendly solution that won’t harm pets or wildlife but can eliminate a small amount of weeds, such as those growing in the cracks in your driveway or sidewalk, pour straight vinegar directly onto them. You may have to do this a couple times to completely kill the weeds."

19. Remove Fresh Carpet Stains

"The morning after a good party, it’s not uncommon to discover a beer stain or two in the carpet. If the stain is still damp, blot up what you can with a dry white towel. To remove the stain, spray it with one part vinegar and two parts water. Then blot up the vinegar solution, making sure to use a white towel so a color won’t bleed into the carpet. The vinegar will remove the stain and the beer odor."

20. Keep Colors Bright

Keep your colors bright by adding a cup of vinegar to your rinse cycle!



I have done many of these, but there are still a couple that I'd like to try out!
Have you tried any of these? Did they work?
I'd love your input!



Today's information found through:
PopularMechanics.com
TheSimpleDollar.com
HGTV.com
&
Blog.Coles.Com.Au

10 Uses for Distilled White Vinegar

I use vinegar all the time! I wanted to learn some more about how I can use it every day and so I have done a T O N of research! I want to share with you what I've learned!
Because I hate to give you a massive list right away, this is simply...Part 1!

It gets rid of odors, cleans tough-to-clean surfaces and is helpful in so many other ways!

There are sooo many ways to use vinegar, but today I am going to share with you
10 Uses for Distilled White Vinegar!

Fill up a clean bucket (or bathtub) with hot water and a cup or two of vinegar. Let the toys soak, then lay out on a towel or cloth and let air dry. - See more at: http://blog.hgtv.com/design/2012/10/09/home-survival-skills-15-amazing-uses-for-vinegar/#sthash.YOZVAh8b.dpuf

1. Cleaning Kitchen Surfaces and Utensils
"Vinegar has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that make it a good choice for cleaning in the kitchen. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water (I mixed about 3/4 vinegar and 1/4 water---it can't hurt!), then pour it into a spray bottle. Use it to clean and disinfect kitchen surfaces such as countertops and stainless-steel sinks and appliances. Just spray on and wipe off with a clean cloth. Be sure to use only nonabrasive cloths or sponges for wiping so you don’t scratch the surface. The cleaning solution also works on myriad other kitchen items, including pots, pans, cooking utensils and cutting boards."

2. Cleaning and Deodorizing Garbage Disposals, Washers and Dishwashers

"Appliances that grind waste or clean dirty dishes can start to stink. So try a little vinegar. For the dishwasher, pour a cup of vinegar into the bottom (don’t place it in the soap dispenser) and run it without any dishes inside on a hot water setting. For the disposer, pour in a cup of vinegar. Turn on the disposer for a second to spread the vinegar around, then turn it off. Wait for a couple minutes, then turn the disposer back on with the water running. Another method is to pour vinegar into ice trays, freeze it, then drop the vinegar ice cubes into the disposer while running it. It’ll remove odors, and the ice will sharpen the blades."

3. It can Soothe a Sunburn

"Is your skin a bit sunburned? Just rub some vinegar on the affected area and it’ll feel much better really quickly. If it’s bad, you can reapply the vinegar a few times."

4.  Fabric Softener

"Use 1/2 cup of white vinegar instead of fabric softener and it has largely the same effect but without coating your clothes in chemicals. and it costs a lot less!"

5. Removing Rust

"Just soak anything that's rusty in vinegar overnight and then clean in thoroughly with a brush. It will come off just about as easily as it does with any expensive rust remover!"

6. Cleaning Vinyl Flooring

"If you have a vinyl floor that needs cleaned, mop using equal amounts of water and vinegar. This works really well for getting up stains, especially if you go over it twice. Don’t do this with wood or wood laminate, however, because vinegar can react with the wood."

7. Cleaning the Microwave

"Put a cup of vinegar in the microwave, then run the microwave on high for three minutes. Let it sit undisturbed for half an hour, then remove the cup. The gunk in your microwave will be very easy to wipe down." I have done this many times before but I only set it for about 1 minute (maybe 1min30secs) and I wiped it after about 10 minutes. It wiped off sooo easily!

8. Carpet Odors

Did your dog do something funky on the carpet (or your toddler, for that matter – yes, I have used this tip to clean up some early potty training accidents)? Pour half a cup of vinegar on the spot that smells and just let it dry. This will kill off the odor and it’ll also make it easier to clean any stains! It gets rid of the smells to a level that animals cannot find their scents anymore! How cool!

9. Air Freshener

Just spritz some vinegar mixture into the air and it will cleanse those bad smells! It might smell a little bit like vinegar at first, but it will go away. I promise!

10. Whitening Clothes

Put a cup of white vinegar in a load of whites along with a quarter of a cup of baking soda. This will whiten your whites as effectively as bleach without the harshness.

I have done many of these, but there are still a couple that I'd like to try out!
Have you tried any of these? Did they work?
I'd love your input!



Today's information found through:
PopularMechanics.com
TheSimpleDollar.com
HGTV.com
&
Blog.Coles.Com.Au

12. Make wood floors shine. Spritz a solution of warm water, a few teaspoons olive oil and vinegar onto the floor, then polish with a soft cloth. - See more at: http://blog.hgtv.com/design/2012/10/09/home-survival-skills-15-amazing-uses-for-vinegar/#sthash.YOZVAh8b.dpuf

Fill up a clean bucket (or bathtub) with hot water and a cup or two of vinegar. Let the toys soak, then lay out on a towel or cloth and let air dry. - See more at: http://blog.hgtv.com/design/2012/10/09/home-survival-skills-15-amazing-uses-for-vinegar/#sthash.YOZVAh8b.dpuf

Fill up a clean bucket (or bathtub) with hot water and a cup or two of vinegar. Let the toys soak, then lay out on a towel or cloth and let air dry. - See more at: http://blog.hgtv.com/design/2012/10/09/home-survival-skills-15-amazing-uses-for-vinegar/#sthash.YOZVAh8b.dpuf

Combine 1 cup of water, 1/2 cup vinegar and a dab of liquid dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray directly onto window and wipe down with a clean, soft cloth or crumpled newspapers. Also works for glass tables and mirrors. - See more at: http://blog.hgtv.com/design/2012/10/09/home-survival-skills-15-amazing-uses-for-vinegar/#sthash.YOZVAh8b.dpuf

Auburn | A Creative Session

| Auburn |

by Strasburger Photography

Thank you for being so sweet and for being so open to all my ideas! 

You are such a blessing to me and without a doubt, to others as well! 

You smile is contagious---so know this, that you are a light, even when the days are tough!

5 Ways to Keep Your Toddler Busy (When You Have Things to Do)

5 Ways to Keep Kids Busy (When You Have Things to Do)

Hannah is the type that wants to constantly be challenged. She is just now getting to the point where she wants to waste tons of energy. 

Run run run run...jump jump jump...run run run...spin around in circles.

...but up until now, my smarty-pants was always getting bored and we had to find things to challenge her and keep her busy. Here's what we found works best for our little girl and maybe just maybe they work for your little one(s), too!

1. Let them play with money and their piggy bank.
-...this is, of course, if you can trust them with coins. You'd be surprised how long my child plays with her piggy bank. She's sat quiet and in the same spot for well over an hour before! For real now...that is the most quiet she has ever been!

2. Pipe Cleaners and a Colander
-Our little smarty-pants likes to solve puzzles and play with things that aren't daily toys. Hence the kitchen stuff. :) This too, has kept her busy for well over an hour.

3. Let them play outside.
-...by themselves if possible. Kids, the LOVE to explore. For reals now. Hannah will spend hours outside if I let her. We have a small back porch, but when I let her wander out even farther in our yard, she loooves it!

4. Water Play!
-We were blessed with a hand-me-down kiddie pool. I fill it up with water and Hannah goes crazy every time. Give them toys that they can toss in the water. Plastic bowls and cups and let them get wet! (She clearly likes to toss my kitchen towels in there, but why not!)

5. Let them play in the dirt!

-Okay, okay! I know that most moms do not like the idea of their kids getting super dirty, especially with mud and stuff, but if you can set aside some time for play (and then a bath right after), you've easily gained an hour or two of mommy time!

There you go! FIVE free (or ridiculously cheap if you count having to buy pipe cleaners) kids activities that give you plenty of mommy time and tons of fun for your kids! :)

Share what works for you and your kids!

Hannah's 18 Months!!!

 My Sweet Pea,

You make my heart happy! You have the sweetest spirit and yet you run wild! You love to love on people and I love that about you! I love how you wrap your arm around my neck to pull me in super close and how you kiss me when I'm asleep in the mornings. I love how you smile at me in those random moments and how you run just to give me a kiss! I am so proud of how fearless and brave you are. You bring such joy to my life! You have a heart of gold and I have no doubt that God is going to use you for GREAT things!

Love,
Mommy

--------------------------------------------------------------------

BIRTH

A whole lot of sleep and rest for mommy, daddy and baby.

Oh my goodness. Where has the time gone?

WARNING || TONS of adorable pictures!!!

On April 4th, 2013 at 5:25 p.m. I gave birth to this beautiful little girl and we named her Hannah Emerson. I have always felt led to pray that my first daughter would be strong, brave, fearless, and sure-footed with her relationship with Christ so when I saw that the name Emerson meant brave and powerful, it really hit home and I knew that name was for her!

Anyone who knows Hannah would tell you to be careful when naming your children! Hannah is the most brave, fearless, strong-willed, powerful, aggressive, and passionate toddler! Nothing scares her, and I mean nothing.

1 MONTH 

Those eyes! She is so curious!

She grew so quickly during her first month!

2 MONTHS

Chubby rolls and learning to smile!

3 MONTHS

Gnawing on everything. Lifting her head up. Smiling and trying to laugh. Chunky monkey!
First swim. 

4 MONTHS

Learning to sit up by herself. She has always been very motivated and determined! So freaking chunky! I almost couldn't fit her in that frog onsie because her thighs were too thick!
 

5 MONTHS

First plane flight. Lots of new facial expressions...too many to post. Sitting up really well. Seriously peppy personality starting to show.
 

6 MONTHS

Same determined baby. First Halloween (mine too). She tried really hard and for a long time to pick up the bigger pumpkin.
 

7 MONTHS

Standing and trying hard to walk (not successful just yet). First Thanksgiving.

8 MONTHS

First Christmas. Walking with help. I "made an awesome" Christmas tutu for her...haha!
 

9 MONTHS
Walking without help!!! Big personality! Playful and sneaky! Snow in Georgia!

10 MONTHS
Learning how to be silly. Finally eating some real food. Still chunky. Teeth!

11 MONTHS
Trouble maker! Won't hold still for nothing! Very social! Loves her cousin! Finally getting some hair on her head.

12 MONTHS
First Birthday party!!!

13 MONTHS
We sore she was already a toddler by this point and no longer our baby. She is so smart and quick-to-react. Independent.

14 MONTHS
Loves to learn---reading and puzzles. Seriously fearless. More teeth. Mommy love!

15 MONTHS
Hannah's first Fourth of July fireworks! She loves to give hugs. New love for bubble baths.

16 MONTHS
We love going to the park! Running. Climbing.

17 MONTHS
Lots of lazy messy days because mommy's "morning" sickness. 
So stinkin' smart! She knows the names of every part on her body (including things like teeth, hair, arms, fingers, etc). Can say up to (and probably more than) forty words and phrases already!
Loooves "Let it Go" from Frozen.

...and finally...

18 MONTHS!!!
She loves cats. She can run like nobody's business. She likes to play in the cupboards. So smiley. She's going through a shy phase, but she has been unbelievably sweet and gentle recently. Favorite phrase right now is "no mommy, no".

I thank God for you daily!