Spiritual Sunday ~ Prayer for Grandmother

It is Spiritual Sunday again and I'm so happy to join Charlotte and Ginger, and everyone else. You are all my blessings and family in Christ.

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We had such a wonderful weekend visiting with friends and family back home. I also spent time with my grandmother who is aging and ill. Grandma requires full-time care. Grandma is well taken care of thanks to my mom and sisters. I send out a prayer request for my grandmother that the Lord bless her with peace and comfort in her time of need.

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Picture of my grandmother, mom, sister, and niece (Nov 2009).
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Picture of my grandparents (Dec 2009).

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Thank you dear friends for your prayers!

Yoli :)

Charming Coreen Cordova

I love the jewelry creations of Coreen Cordova. Her necklaces are so beautiful, unique. and stunning. I personally like the cowgirl, Latin, southwest designs. Her necklace charms are so pretty. Her jewelry can be found at upscale western wear boutiques.

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Of course I have expensive taste but my budget keeps me grounded. Her designs are my inspiration when I'm out bargain shopping for jewelry. We have to work with what we have, and I have a great imagination! I'm not doing to bad at all because I have found necklaces that are close enough to the real thing....heck, who can really tell. So ladies, "wear what you have, look pretty, and be proud". Beauty is within, everything else is just icing on the cake.

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Have a gorgeous weekend. I will be traveling back home for a quick trip this weekend.

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Yoli :)

Thankful Thursday

Lynn is hosting Thankful Thursday and has wonderful unexpected things to be thankful for. Go on over and share your unexpected thankfulness!
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I am so very thankful to God for allowing me the pleasure of spenting time with my Aunt Connie this past Saturday in Gruene, Tx. Aunt Connie lives near me now that I moved to my new city. We both love shopping, antiques, market shows, flea market bargains, tea rooms, and so much more. We were blessed with a beautiful day, gorgeous weather, and so much fun!! Hope you enjoy the pictures I took.

Hope you have a great Thursday!!

Yoli :)

New Friend

I am so blessed by God because he gave me a wonderful new friend. Rachel is my 84 years old neighbor. I found the picture of the spunky ladies in swimwear and it reminded me of her.
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Rachel has a great sense of humor and I love hearing her stories. She is the owner of the duplex that we share. I admire her energy and passion for life. She still drivers herself around and is fighting to keep her independence. I made chicken vegetable soup for supper last night and took some over to her. Rachel fills my heart with joy, wisdom, and faith. I pray that God keeps her in good health, happiness, and humor!
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Yoli :)

Blue Monday

It is Blue Monday at Smiling Sally. Go on over and post your touches of blue.

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My blue post for the week is this gorgeous blue vase. I really like how the blue color lightens as the glass rounds towards the center. I can imagine a single hot-pink Gerbera Daisy in the vase. This bracelet is from Crow's Nest Trading Company. I do have to admit that the bracelet is what first got my attention. I'm a western senorita at heart, so rustic jewels and beads are my favorite.

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I've been noticing vases lately because my sister Jessica also uses them so much when she takes pictures of the jewelry she created. The pictures are stunning that she posts on her blog.

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Ya'll have a wonderful week!

Yoli :)

Spiritual Sundays

As I join in on Spiritual Sundays with Charlotte and Ginger, I feel the fellowship of Christian believers coming together in love and support. I also join in prayer for Charlotte and that her surgery goes well next month. May the Lord bless her with healing, health, and recovery.

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As single parent families increase in America, the need for Single Parent Family Ministries (SPFM) gets higher in demand. Regardless of the reason a person ends-up being a single parent, it is our Christian obligation to reach out. Many times single parents feel alone in their struggles and ashamed of their circumstances. "Do not oppress the widow or the orphan, the alien or the poor..." Zechariah 7:10

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As a single mom myself, I know those feelings too well. With the grace of God and fellowship with Christian women of faith, my life has purpose and support. Incorporating a SPFM into a church can seem overwhelming. False perceptions that single parents are too needy, desperately looking for a spouse, or have failed in their faith; can be a detrant. Assuming that children from single parents are problem kids and too much to handle; can also hinder the need for those children to be equally embraced by the church. An effective SPFM is more than just offering a single parent gathering with free babysitting, it is about reaching down to the core of a single parent's heart. It is about helping the single parent feel at home at their church. We need to tell the single parents families that we are there for them and that God is always with them, so they are never alone. . "I command you; be firm and steadfast! Do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord you God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

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Your sister in Christ,

Yoli :)

Gruene Market Days

I'm so excited because this weekend I'm going to Market Days in Gruene, TX. I know I'll find something special to buy. I like that the event is filled with vendors that make hand-crafted items. There will be all sorts of artists showcasing their works; candles, ceramics, crafts, furniture, glass, jewelry, soaps, stone arts, wood working, and good food. I will take plenty of pictures and post them soon.

Happy Friday!

Yoli

Thankful Thursday ~ Laughter

Lynn is hosting Thankful Thursday today. She has a ratty funny story. Share some time and laughter with friends.

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I love to hear my kids laugh. It fills me with happiness to know that they are finding humor in life. I personally need to laugh more often. I'm so busy trying to be Super-Mom and Ms. Perfectionist, that I don't slow down enough to enjoy the simple things. Today I commit to lighten-up and laugh more.

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Yoli :)

Happy in the City

Good Morning friends. I am very happy in my new city!! I woke up with a positive outlook about my day ahead. My kids are in school and hopefully being around other teenagers will help them get adjusted to our new city. I am accepting my new job transfer/promotion in stride. I had a kind reminded that good friends, even though they are far away, are like special flowers in my heart.

Serenity Prayer
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I can not change.
The courage to change the things I can,
and the wisdom to know the difference.

Have a beautiful day!
Yoli :)

Tuesday Morning

This is my morning. Me, grapefruit juice, unfinished office, and my Cucumber Melon lotion from Bath & Body Works. My office is still being worked on. It still needs paint and flooring work. Hopefully soon I can start to decorate.
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My kids started high school today in our new city. I hope they are having a good day so far and that they meet nice friends. We live across the school but they drove themselves there anyway. I can't wait to see them this afternoon to see how their day was.
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Have a beautiful day friends!
Yoli :)

Blue Monday ~ Blue Coconut

It is Blue Monday at Smiling Sally. Go on over and enjoy some blues!
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These earrings are so adorable. My sister Jessica makes gorgeous jewelry at JOY Marie's Boutique. Here is "Blue Coconut" featuring a faceted marine aqua marine blue bead. Jessica just made a gorgeous necklace named "Cha Cha Cherry" that you have to see. She is truly gifted jewelry designer. Her work is stunning and her prices are so afordable. YOU GO GIRL.

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Have a FAB week!

Yoli :)

Spiritual Sundays ~ Prayer for Haiti

I am so blessed to join in on Spiritual Sundays. Ginger posted a beautiful and peaceful picture. It calms my heart to know of God's greatness. .
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Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings. James 3:17
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This Sunday I offer up my prayers to the people in Haiti, especially the children. May God have mercy and may the people find comfort in Christ.
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God be with us all.
Yoli

She is my Sunshine

My daughter "Gigi" is my sunshine. She is the reason I smile very day. She is my princess and my dream come true. She has a strong Christian faith. Her dedication to school and self respect are a parent's dream. I loved buying her cute dresses when she was younger. I enjoyed brushing her hair and styling it with bows and ribbons. Gina is 14 years old so I know the teenage years are just starting. With all the talks we've shared together, I am hoping her teenage years will be more enjoyable than tough. I am truly blessed to be her mom!!
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Yoli :)

Jesus Take the Wheel

I really don't mean to use Carrie Underwood's song title, but that is exactly how I felt yesterday evening. We set out for a 4 hour drive to my old hometown when soon after we ran into a terrible rainstorm and lightening storm most of our trip.
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There were times I couldn't even see a car length in front of me. Every time a big semi-trailer would pass me it would splash so much water that my visibility went down to zero. The kids and I were so scared. I tried to pull over but the exits on interstates are so far apart. The grassy areas along the road were too soaked for safety. I really didn't want to pull over on the side of the road either because I was scared that someone would hit our car from behind. So I drove a bit slower, used my hazards lights a lot, and truly drove on a prayer. I hummed a church hymn over and over and over most of the trip. That helped me focus on something greater than the storm; GOD.
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By the grace of God we finally made it to my mother's house. A 4 hour trip ended up taking 5 1/2 hours. My kids and I are safe and I am so thankful to God for taking care of us. AMEN!

Yoli :)

Thankful Thursday ~ Things I Love

Lynn is hosting Thankful Thursday today about "Thing I (we) Love". Go on over and join in. We would love to hear from you!

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As I review my "love" list in my heart I notice how blessed I am. I love the attention that God gave to creating our beautiful world. He chose stunning colors, subtle details, and magnificent landscapes. I love the rolling hills of Texas Hill Country where some of the best vineyards are fabulously tucked away like nuggets of gold in the hills.

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The Grapevine is in the historic town of Gruene, TX. They are a wine tasting room specializing in Texas wines. They have a superior selection of cheeses, crackers, and balsamic vinaigrette's.
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When I go there I always pick up a bottle of a balsamic vinaigrette. It is a little pricier than those at a regular grocery store, but so well worth it. I use it when I prepare grilled fish, bruschetta, and salads. So in summary, I am thankful for God, rolling hills, salads, and balsamic vinaigrette. These are all things given to us by a loving and creative God.

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Have a blessed Thursday!

Yoli :)

San Antonio Rodeo ~ Coming in February

The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is just around the corner. It is "A volunteer organization that emphasizes agriculture and education to develop the youth of Texas."

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My Dad was in agriculture and we all had at work outside on our family land. He taught us to work hard, long hours, and be proud of our work. As an adult, I went on to work for a world-wide agriculture company in Safety & Admin for several years. Now that I've gone on to other ventures, I still try to maintain the work ethics that I learned from my father. I strongly believe that education, hard work, and faith are the foundation of a peaceful and productive society.

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It's not all "work and no play". In fact, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is known for bringing huge artists to perform. Last night we went online to buy event tickets. We will be attending 2 concerts on 2 different days. The first one is Tim McGraw, Country Music Superstar. The other one is Selena Gomez from Disney's Wizards at Waverly Place. She is the new singing shinning star! We can't wait for the fun!

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Hope Ya'll have a great day!

Yoli

Blue Monday

Oh how fun, it is Blue Monday again! Go on over to Smiling Sally to share your beautiful blues.

I feel like the moose. My kids and I have been going in so many directions as we venture out in our new city. We are having much fun. Which way are we headed today?

Yoli :)

Spiritual Sunday

Spiritual Sundays with Ginger & Charlotte, oh what a blessed time again. Today is such special day because my kids and I went to a new church in our new city. This is the first weekend we have spent in our new home town, and going to Church was priority this morning. I know we have found our new spiritual home.

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"God made my life complete when I placed the pieces before him. When I got my act together, he gave me a fresh start... God rewrote the text of my life when I opened the book of my heart to his eyes."

Psalm 18:20-24

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My dear sisters, take your "pieces" and place them before the Lord. We aren't perfect. God knows that. He isn't going to snub us or refuse to accept us because we are broken. In fact, he wants us in pieces so he can recreate us into his masterpiece. I know that as I got my act together and started to prove to God that I was disciplined enough to manage more blessings, the doors of greatness started to open. God is not going to set us up for failure. He wants to give us a fresh start. Open your heart and eyes to the fact that God has a better place for our life. The scriptures are not just stories of days gone by, but instead are the script for our life.

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So, if you are broken in pieces due to a tough relationship, or because of economic struggles, or even if your pride doesn't allow you to see the pieces; kneel before the Christ Jesus. He will make you whole. There will be scars as reminder of the journey but your beauty will shine through and bring forth new life.

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God be with you! ~ Yoli :)

Thanksful Thursday

Lynn is hosting Thankful Thursday today. I just read out load what Lynn posted and I feel moved and empowered. YOU HAVE TO READ IT.

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Lynn also asked, "Tell me what you are expecting to do in the Kingdom this year?" This year I am expecting to walk in faith, courage, happiness, and thankfulness. I will take my challenges as opportunities for spiritual growth. I will share with people the sweet kindness of Jesus Christ. My walk will be confident and proud because I am the daughter of the Heavenly King.

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God Bless You!

Yoli :)

One Proud Mama

My children are my pride an joy and the most special blessing from God. I shine when they are around and when I talk about them. I am most happiest when I'm being their mom. We are the family that prays together, has dinner together, and laughs together; everyday. We have been through bumpy roads but we have managed to survive by clinging tightly to our faith and each other. They are the ones that inspire me to dream bigger and have a deeper faith.
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And then there is that other side of raising teen kids. My son is going through a growth spurt so he is eating twice his weight. He is into exercising so that helps him to not gain weight. My daughter is watching what she eats. She is probably planning ahead for summer swimming fun. They are together all day and bicker like typical kids, but they can't be apart either. They like the same music, subjects, and foods. They challenge each other to see who can do better in school or who has the quickest humor. Their favorite word is mom, mom, mom, mom, mom.... you know that can be. I love catering to them but I need to start letting them do more for themselves.
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They will always be my "babies" and I will always be one proud mama!
Yoli :)

Blue Monday ~ 1st for 2010

It is the 1st Blue Monday of the year at Smiling Sally. It is so much fun sharing of anything blue.

I love Blueberry Streusel Muffins. I give all the credit to Duncan Hines. Their box recipe is awesome. It is easy enough for my teen daughter to whip up a batch. They are delicious warm out of the oven.

I have to mention the Dallas Cowboys are the 2009 NFC East Division Champs. We're praying in Texas that they go all the way to a victorious Super Bowl.
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Wishing you a wonderful & blessed New Year!

Yoli :)

Spiritual Sundays ~ 1st Post for 2010

Spiritual Sundays with Ginger & Charlotte is starting the new year by joining friends for sharing and praying. No one is ever alone when you come by for visit. Let down you guard and allow the healing powers of our Lord Jesus Christ cleanse you free.

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This first Spiritual Sunday of 2010 is so special. As I reflect on last year's struggles and blessings, I also look forward to the new year. I welcome challenges because that is when God gives me the opportunity to learn and grow spiritually. I welcome the blessings as signs of the promises of a loving God. God create this world with rivers, valleys, rainbows, and majestic mountains; and that is exactly how He created our heart. I pray for each and everyone one of you, and I ask that you join me in praying for those people who have not received the gift of salvation.

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My sincerest wishes for a Blessed New Year.

Yoli :)

Happy New Year 2010

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Happy New Year!! We traveled back home to celebrate the new year with my family in south Texas. It was the perfect weather for a fabulous celebration. My sister Jessica hosted the New Year's party at her house. There was a huge gathering of friends and family. It was so much fun. The kids enjoyed popping fireworks in the back yard. My mom and sisters cooked so many different types of foods...yum, yum. Friends also brought over more specialties from their kitchen. I am very grateful to God for blessing me with such a wonderful family and good friends.

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To my blogging world friends, you too are like family. I have shared with you my struggles, funny stories, and dreams. You have always been supportive and I sincerely appreciate that. May God bless you with peace and love this year. May we all challenge ourselves to reach out more to others less fortunate. True riches are those we share from the heart.

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Happy New Year!

Yoli