Tavita's Purse

We're moving!

2011-10-20T11:02:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone...It's been a looooong time.

Just wanted to let you know we're moving. So come join us at Tabitha's Purse!

Watchmen Wednesday: Watching Over Your Household

2010-04-14T07:53:00.004-04:00

She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Proverbs 31:27

Usually when I do a Watchmen Wednesday, I post about Israel, as we are called to be "watchmen on the walls" for Israel. However, today I was reading a transcript of the Revive Our Hearts radio program, and realized something else: We, as women, are called to the be the "watchwomen" of our homes.

So many people have asked me the question: "Why in a Jewish wedding does the bride circle the groom?" And honestly, it's easy to explain if that person understands the basic concepts of the Jewish family, that the wife is considered the "bayis", the home. However, most of the time, that question comes from someone that isn't familiar with that line of thinking, and I've found myself at a loss for the correct verbage. But today as I was reading Nancy Leigh DeMoss's teaching, I suddenly exclaimed (in my head, because the baby was napping), "What a perfect explanation of the Jewish wedding ceremony! She explained it perfectly!"

So here is an excerpt of that teaching:

We’ve been camping out in Proverbs 31, and particularly on verse 27, where we’re told that the virtuous woman is a woman who watches over the ways of her household. We’ve talked about watching, in practical ways, to make sure that the needs of our families are met. But there’s another very important way that you watch over the ways of your household—that’s in prayer.

In the New Testament, we often find watching and praying linked together. Jesus said, “Watch and pray, so that you don’t fall into temptation” (Matthew 26:41, Mark 14:38). It’s a protection for you to watch and pray over the ways of your household, but it’s also a wonderful means that you provide a protection for your husband.

Your husbands, if they are in almost any work environment that you can think of, are being faced with temptations and with pressures. The enemy, Satan himself, is working to pull them down, especially if your husband is a believer and wanting to walk with God. There are lots and lots and lots of opportunities for him to fail spiritually, morally, and in other ways.

What a blessing it is for a man to know that back home there’s a wife who’s watching and praying on his behalf, and praying that as he goes out into that world, God will protect him and God will keep his heart pure.

Ladies, if you’re not going to pray that for your husband, who do you think is going to pray that for him? Who’s going to watch and pray for his soul? You can protect him in that way, and you protect your children as you watch and pray. Ask the Lord to show you things that you need to be alert to, in their lives.

Yes, this is exactly what she is doing when the bride circles the groom. Usually when I say, "She is building a protection around him", people look at me funny and say, "Isn't HE supposed to protect HER?" And I think in many ways, yes, of course the husband protects the wife, definitely physcially. But as a wife, it is her high calling to protect him spiritually, by praying for him and watching over the affairs of their household.

I can't tell you how much I am learning from Nancy Leigh DeMoss as I've signed up for the True Woman Makeover to read Proverbs 31 every day for 30 days. I highly recommend it for ANY woman, single, married, children, no children, whatever your current status.

So ladies, I'd like to hear from you! In what ways are you a watchwoman over your household? Anything specific you want to share?

Photo available at AllPosters.com.

Passover is coming!

2010-03-26T09:03:00.000-04:00

Passover begins this Monday night! I can't believe it's here already. This festival is extremely fun and joyful as we celebrate the Exodus from Egypt. It is also incredibly spiritual and can be life-changing. In the next few days, there will be a flurry of activity in homes throughout the world, removing chametz (leaven) from every corner. As we do this, let us not neglect to clear out the chametz from our hearts. This is the present-day Exodus. Each of us must daily remember that we are not slaves of the world, but we are set free in Messiah to be "slaves unto righteousness" (Romans 6:18). When we allow the chametz of pride, anger and unforgiveness to remain in our hearts, we are acting as slaves to this world and its bondages (John 8:34). Therefore, let us remember the miracles of the past, and walk in them in the present!

Here are some Passover links:
Tammy has a great Matza Ball Soup recipe here...it looks delish!
Joanna at Fearlessly Feminine has had a great series here on "Getting the Leaven Out".
Aaron Eby wrote a great piece for Passover newbies (and oldies!) - 10 Tips for A Smooth Sailing Seder.

Pesach Sameach (Happy Passover)!

Earth's Best Giveaway!

2010-03-24T09:25:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I told you how to score some Earth's Best organic baby food for really cheap. Today I'll tell you how you can win some for FREE!

One of my favorite money-saving sites is The Centsible Sawyer and she is giving away 3 cases of Earth's Best Infant Cereal. Just go here to enter!

Recipe of the Week: Baby's First Guacamole

2010-03-23T22:07:00.000-04:00

Homemade baby food is something that I want to make more of. I'm kind of a "low maintenance" type of cook, so the easier the better. Here's something I make for my 7 month old daughter and she loves it!

Baby's First Guacamole

1/2 cup ripe, peeled avocado

1/4 of a ripe banana

Mash together both ingredients.

Voila! Creamy, yummy and nutritious "guac" for your baby!

Publix Premium Diapers for 50 cents!

2010-03-23T21:00:00.000-04:00

Attention Publix shoppers! If you belong to the Publix Baby Club, and received the last set of coupons, including the $3 off any Publix Premium diaper Jumbo Pack (40 - 66 diapers), then you could score some diapers for CHEAP!

I've seen these diapers on the clearance rack for $3.50 at 4 different Publix stores.
Use the coupon, and get the jumbo pack for 50 cents!

Grill Night!

2010-03-23T20:50:00.000-04:00

Why does everything taste better grilled?

YUM!

Recent Reads

2010-03-23T20:46:00.000-04:00

I LOVE to read...and I thought I would share some of my favorite recent reads with you!

Quick & Kosher by Jamie Geller
Ok, I know it's a cookbook. But I really did read it...all the way through! That should tell you something. I'm not usually into cookbooks, but my mom and I were planning our Passover meal for next week (ahhh...it's next week!) and she told me to look through this book. I immediately fell in love with the author, whose number one criteria for any recipe is that it must take less than 15 minutes to prep. I actually just read it today and haven't tried any recipes yet, but I definitely plan to this week. I'm always looking for shortcuts in the kitchen. I'm a gourmet-food lover, but hate all the prep. I love reading my sister's old copies of Bon Appetite magazine as my mouth waters from just looking at the titles of the recipes, but one mention of "separating eggs" or using an "immersion blender" makes me turn the page. My sis on the other hand, will make the most delicious (and challenging) recipes, "just for fun." Therefore, this book is perfect for me, and any other cook who would like some traditional Jewish recipes (and lots of non-traditional ones) that are EASY to create!

Passionate Housewives Desperate for God
If you are a woman, you need to read this book. DEFINITELY. It has been one of the most life/attitude changing books I have ever read. I don't want to say too much because I don't want to give it away, but seriously...read this book. Now.

Unspoken by Angela Hunt
This book is one of the most intriguing works of fiction I have ever read. It is about a woman who works with a gorilla. I have never fallen in love with a character as much as I fell in love with that gorilla. I laughed, I cried, and I was encouraged. It has a wonderful "redemptive" message, as most of the Angela Hunt novels do.

So, what have you been reading lately? Any recommendations?

Earth's Best Organic Baby Food for 40 cents per jar!

2010-03-23T20:23:00.000-04:00

Now that my daughter has started solids, I am always looking for good deals on baby food. Homemade is of course preferable, but it's just not feasible for me to do homemade for every meal. So I have rules about the jarred baby food I buy:

1) It has to be kosher.

2) It has to be organic.

3) It has to be less than 50 cents per jar.

These rules can make it a challenge at times to find baby food that fits all my criteria, but they are all important to me. Today I found a great deal at Babies R Us which is good for the next week, and I wanted to share it!

Earth's Best Organic 1st and 2nd foods are on sale at BRU for 10 for $5.00 (must buy 10).

Use $1/7 here (can print 2 coupons)

Get each jar for 40 cents each!
(I actually had more coupons from a blinkie I found a few weeks ago, so mine were less than 40 cents each.)

What's a mom got to do to get some sleep???

2010-03-21T07:45:00.002-04:00

Is there anything more beautiful than a sleeping baby?

One of the most repeated (and annoying!) pieces of advice I received when I was pregnant was, "Make sure to sleep now, because you won't later!" Yes, annoying, for two reasons: 1) When you have a watermelon, or even a large peach, pressing on your bladder 24 hours a day, it is hard to do ANYTHING without visiting the bathroom every two hours. 2) It's not like sleeping a lot when you are pregnant would help with sleep deprivation after the baby arrives, anyway. Therefore, I made myself promise to never give this piece of advice to any other pregnant woman.

Although annoying, now that I have been a mother for 7 months, I do realize the heart behind this piece of advice. First time pregnant women (and I sure do know a lot of you...is this the 2010 baby boom or what?), hear me now. Sleep deprivation is unlike anything else you've ever dealt with. You will not believe how incredibly hard it is to be sweet and patient when you are living day after day on little sleep. You will realize the absolute importance of UNINTERRUPTED sleep. You will realize how selfish this body of yours really is, and how it craves sleep.

Ok, there's the bad news. But I'm an eternal optimist, so here's the good news. Your baby might be a good sleeper from the get-go. I know quite a few moms that swear their babies were. And although it's very hard for me to imagine, some say their babies slept through the night before they were even one month old. My seven month old angel has just started sleeping through the night. But more on that later.

More good news...you can actually do things to help your baby sleep through the night. After reading virtually every book on the subject, and trying almost all of the "fail-proof" methods, I'd like to weigh in on the subject for anyone who cares. Contrary to what Johnson & Johnson want you to think, getting a baby to sleep is a lot more of a job than just giving them a blissful bubbly bath in their calming line of products. Here are some things I learned:

1) Get on a routine during the day. The eat/play/sleep routine did WONDERS for us. Not in the sleeping through the night dilemma, but in general. A friend of mine who has her master's degree in education and I were talking yesterday about babies loving patterns. Babies really do pay attention to small details, things that we as adults would miss. Babies also crave routine. I read a couple of books, On Becoming Babywise and The Baby Whisperer, that promote this idea and decided to try it. Although not everything in both of the books worked for us, nor do I agree with everything in either book. However, the importance of routine proved itself to me. After instituting a routine, Ariella was just a much happier baby. She knew what to expect. She knew that when she woke up from a nap, Mommy would feed her and then she would get to play (even if playing just means laying on the floor looking around a things when you are just a newborn).

2) Getting to sleep is a journey. Think of every naptime and bedtime as a journey. In the beginning, you will have to help your baby a lot. In every "play" period, I built in a little "quiet time" where Ariella and I would go in her room and just lay down on the twin guest bed in her room and we would read a story or I would sing to her. It seemed to really signal to her that "after this, we are going to sleep." If she was wired from being overtired, I would nurse her a little to calm her down (the books above advise you not to do this). Then I would put her in her crib and just sit in a chair beside her crib and she would look around while she sucked on her pacifier until her eyelids got too heavy. It took some time, but now she is much better at going to sleep independently. If she is truly tired now, I can put her in her crib, give her the pacifier and she rolls onto her side away from me - which I interpret to mean, "Ok, Mom, I got this. I'm ready to sleep now."

3) Use a pacifier appropriately...or don't. At the very beginning, Ariella wouldn't take the pacifier. I don't think she knew what to do with it since it was so different from what she was used to sucking on for her food. But that meant that for her suckling time, she wanted me. All the time. So we began consistently giving it to her at bedtime, and within a few days she loved it. However, we only gave it to her at naptime or bedtime. And it is really a great invention, seriously. However, I did not want one of those two year olds walking around with one. So the rule is, you have to be in the crib for it. Sometimes she finds one while she is playing and she doesn't even want one during "play" time. She just takes it out and shakes it. So it worked for us that way. If you aren't comfortable with them at all, then don't do it. If you are breastfeeding, don't worry about the nipple confusion thing. We didn't have a problem with that at all. We gave her bottles of breastmilk when she was a week old and she never had a problem with latching. The pacifier didn't confuse her either. I think once they learn, then it's like riding a bike, they don't forget.

4) The big CIO. This is where the books mentioned above differ greatly. CIO (crying it out) is perhaps one of the most controversial points of new parenthood. I was hesitant at first, but found that a little crying before naps and bedtime is normal. Once we got using the pacifier a lot though, the crying before bed virtually ended. However, our particular problem was not GETTING to sleep, it was STAYING asleep. Up until a couple of weeks ago, Ariella's pattern was like this:

Go to bed (I tried several different bedtimes between 6 pm and 10 pm....8 pm works the best for us).

Sleep 4 or 5 hours.

Nurse.

Sleep 2 hours.

Nurse.

Sleep 2 hours.

Nurse.

Sleep 1 or 2 hours.

The problem with the earlier bedtimes for us was that once she had slept her 4 or 5 hours, I was literally just going to bed and she was ready to wake up every 2 hours. It was ok for a while, but after 6 months of this, it was madness. I just could not take it anymore. I knew she didn't like it either. She was dreadfully upset when she woke at night. I knew it was waking my husband up too, and we were both worse for the wear. Our family needed some sleep. So one night when she woke at 1 am (her "sticky point"), I didn't go to her. I just turned our fan up really loud in our room. Occasionally I would look at the monitor and then look at the clock to make sure it hadn't been too long. I think she fell asleep after 45 minutes that first night. And then miracle of miracles, she didn't wake up 2 hours later. She slept until 6 am, when I nursed her. The next night I did the same thing, and she did the same thing. The third night she slept all the way until 4 am. Now I feed her at 4 am and she goes back to sleep until 8 am. Soon we will work on getting that 4 am feeding out, but for now it's fine with all 3 of us. So that's how cry it out worked for us. I will say that I don't recommend doing it to newborn babies or even under 3 months. They really do need at least one feeding at night up until then anyway. After all of my research, I recommend waiting until 6 months. The 4 - 6 month stage is a big "growing and learning" stage and they can be very fussy. It can make doing CIO at that time very hard on all parties involved. I'm glad that we did it when we did.

Here we are seven months after our world completely changed. Nothing will ever be the same. I've been sleep-deprived and blissfully in love with my daughter for seven months. And now, I am well-rested and happy and even more in love with my husband and daughter than ever before. So here's my best piece of advice for a new mom, and it applies to everything across the board...IT DOES GET BETTER!!! But don't live the first few months waiting for it to get better...enjoy the ride. There are little moments of true joy in all of the sleep-deprived, sore-nippled, smelly-diapered newborn days that make it all worth it.

Wonder Kids Bible DVD's for $1 each!

2010-03-12T11:56:00.001-05:00

I stumbled upon a great deal and I wanted to share it with other parents, Shabbat/Sunday School teachers, nursery workers, grandparents, etc.

Dollar Tree Stores have Wonder Kids Bible DVD's for $1 each. I bought the Esther one and the Moses one, and was amazed when we watched them with my 7 month old for the first time. They show the Bible stories as a book, with pictures and the words flash up on the screen (so you can read along with it!). After each little story there is a praise/worship song. I can't believe the quality in each DVD for $1! This is a good deal as the DVD's on the website are all around $14.99 (for 3 DVD's).

Check out your local store to see if they have them!

The Beauty of Breastfeeding

2010-03-12T11:11:00.003-05:00

One of the ironies of the human experience is that those things in life which present the most difficult challenges to us are the things that we hold most dearly. One of the ironies of new motherhood is "How can something so natural be so difficult?"

Immediately after Ariella came into this world, we tried breastfeeding. She suckled for about 30 seconds, and then fell asleep. The nurses told me not to be disappointed as she was probably tired from a long labor and that we could try again later. So a couple of hours later we tried again...same thing. This continued throughout the whole night. The next morning a lactation consultant came into try to help. She was one of those "no nonsense" nurses that looked like she could beat your husband at football. I was so intimidated as she forcefully shoved my breast into my sleepy infant's mouth. "You have to keep waking her up if she falls asleep," she told me. I asked her if she had any children, and she shook her head, "no." "Ok, great", I thought, "I'm learning from someone who has never done this in her life!" So every breastfeeding session after that became a battle of trying to keep Ariella awake.

A few days later, my milk started coming in and WOW...did that ever hurt!!! Every time Ari latched on, I would squint my eyes and say "Lord help me!" until the pain subsided. The best thing for that season of breastfeeding was the Lansinoh lanolin someone gave me at a baby shower. It hurt so much that a few times I even considered pumping exclusively or going to formula feeding. Even though everyone told me that it would get better, I thought it would hurt like that forever.

And "the people" were right! It got way better about 2 weeks later, and our every 3 hour feeding sessions were a well-deserved 45 minute break for me to rest and read and pray. I loved them and treasured those times. I would even just stare at my suckling child for the entire time sometimes. I couldn't believe that I was the recipient of such a precious gift...and that Hashem was allowing my body to produce her life-sustaining food! What a miracle!

Now, 7 months later, I look back and miss those times. We're still breastfeeding, but it goes so fast now. She can drain both breasts in 7 minutes flat. Barely enough time to read a good chapter or have a "good" prayer session. Or even just to stare at every little characteristic of the side of her face or play with her toes. (Ok, now I'm tearing up). My baby is growing up!

When I first started breastfeeding and it was so hard, I would think to myself, "Ok, just 3 more months of this." Then I got to 3 months and thought, "Ok, 3 more months." And now, I don't want to stop! I know I will at some point wean her, but right now as she is becoming more active and more independent, it's a much beloved time that is just for the two of us.

Sometimes I wondered why God made it so that only the woman has the ability to breastfeed her baby. But then I thought about it. God did not make male and female to be the same. He made us with COUNTLESS differences, specialities, abilities, whatever you want to call them. What a treasure He has given us as mothers!

So, to sum it all up, if you choose to breastfeed (and please do if you can!):

1. Pray, even before your baby is born, that God will make your body able to do it. I found a prayer like this in the Artscroll Women's Siddur, and I prayed it every day in the last few months of my pregnancy.
2. Cherish the time you spend snuggling with your little one. It really does go by really quickly!
3. Take care of yourself, get enough calories and rest so that your body can produce the milk.
4. Don't stress...pray and talk to other moms when you need encouragement.
5. If you have a little night owl like mine, side-lying nursing is AWESOME for letting you get some needed rest while your baby suckles.

"Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad for her,

all you who love her;

rejoice greatly with her,

all you who mourn over her.

For you will nurse and be satisfied

at her comforting breasts;

you will drink deeply

and delight in her overflowing abundance."

Isaiah 66:10-11

The Beauty of Separation, Taharat HaMishpachah

2010-03-12T10:41:00.000-05:00

I have recently been reading a lot about Taharat HaMishpachah, the laws of family purity. My beautiful friend over at Fearlessly Feminine just wrote a post about it, and I wanted to share it with you. May you be blessed by it.

Blockbuster Express: Free Night Movie Rental on Wednesdays

2010-03-01T12:01:00.004-05:00

If you're looking for a cheap date night activity, renting a movie from a kiosk is a great idea. Here's something to make it even cheaper...a code for a free night every Wednesday from Blockbuster Express. The code is 212A4

Check here to find a kiosk near you!

Walking a Mile

2010-02-22T16:04:00.003-05:00

"So, like, what do you do all day?" If you are a stay-at-home mom (or dad), you have probably heard that question one too many times. It's such a funny question, isn't it? If you really had to answer what would you say?

Before our daughter was born, I worked the typical 9 to 5 office job and thought I did a pretty good job of keeping our house neat, making dinners, saving money...a self-described "domestic diva." But there were many things that I would say, "Well, I'll do that when I'm a stay-at-home mom." HAHA...yeah, right. I didn't realize that cleaning the floors, which used to take me an hour to do the whole house, will now take me a whole day. I read somewhere that when you have kids you can expect a 15 minute job to turn into a 45 minute job. So true.

I have a beautiful friend who has a daughter who is about 9 months older than mine. In addition to being a wonderful wife and mother, she is an amazing writer. Since I was in my blogging hayday, I would always tell her, "Joanna, you should write a blog!" And she would smile and say, "Yes, someday." I could never understand why she didn't have one...until now.

And now that her adorable daughter is a little older, the good news is that Joanna does have an awesome blog. I learn so much from her. Check it out...you will be glad you did!

Moral of the story: Never judge someone before you've walked a mile in their shoes. Especially a stay-at-home mom.

I also want to say a big YAY! for my best friend from college, Rebekah, who has just become a stay-at-home mom to her 5 month old daughter. It's a challenging job, but so worth it!

Picture availabe at AllPosters.com.

The (not so) Importance of STTN

2010-01-07T11:38:00.006-05:00

It seems being a parent in America today takes knowing a whole lot - whether the Graco or Chicco travel system will match your car interior better, what crib mattresses are on recall, what childbirth class you had better take or else you and your baby will never bond, etc. Apparently, in addition to all of this, you need to know some acronyms. Actually, you become an acronym. After a month of being a mom, I found out that I was an EBFing, WAHM who was also a FTM. Interesting.

As my family and friends know, I frequently read my "baby board," a discussion group of moms (and a few dads) that all have babies born in the same month. There are FFers (formula feeders), BFers (breastfeeders), BWers (baby wearers), CSers (co-sleepers) and even something that I haven't quite figured out yet called ecoBFers. They discuss everything from diapers to pacifiers to what TV shows they watch when up for those late night feedings. But no single topic gets more play than STTN. Hands down, STTN is the winner.

Before my little bundle of joy was born, I never really thought about "sleeping through the night." Honestly, when I was pregnant, there weren't many nights I STTN myself because someone thought my bladder was a perfect kickball. So I assumed that babies are usually awake throughout the night. I was not prepared for the mass confusion and tons of (dissenting) information I was about to receive.

When we came home from the hospital, Ariella woke up every hour at night to eat or be held. I honestly thought it was normal. I was blissfully unaware that some of my friends' babies were STTN by the time they were 5 days old. One day when she was about two weeks old, I read in a magazine words that amazed me..."Don't worry if you are about to become a zombie; most babies STTN by the time they are 3 months old." Wow! I could not believe my eyes! To a woman who had not had more than 3 hours of consecutive sleep in a couple of weeks, that sounded great! I became ravenous for any material I could get my hands on about STTN.

I read so many suggestions...swaddle your baby, use white noise, put her down in her crib awake so that she learns to soothe herself to sleep, sleep with her, don't sleep with her, nurse her to sleep, never nurse her to sleep, on and on and on. I tried all of it. The swaddle did help until my fiesty little one (as her pediatrician called her) started kicking and pulling out of it at 8 weeks old. I tried other swaddling methods, but she got out of all of them. So I stopped swaddling.
We did get her on a routine, like a few of the books suggested, and that seemed to help with her naps (which was another big surprise). No one ever told me babies can only stay awake for about an hour when they are that little! After we got naps down pat, we started working on bedtime. We experimented with timing, routine, to do a bath or not, is she hot? is she cold? is she wet? is she hungry? EVERYTHING. Finally we got some sort of routine and time that seemed to work well...for awhile. (That's another thing I didn't know about babies - they change all the time, if something works for a week or two, it probably won't work in a month!)
All the while, we still have not STTN. We were getting close, down to about 2 wakings per night. Then we went on vacation, she got sick, and now we're back at about 5 wakings per night. Am I tired? Physically, a little. I'm more tired of trying so hard.

Yesterday, I was praying for Ariella and something hit me like a ton of bricks. Who cares if she STTN now? I read a book that said if she doesn't STTN soon, then she will be sure to have ADHD and be more likely to quit high school and end up in jail than those babies that are STTN. I usually finish books, but that one I promptly stopped and took back to the library. Did our grandmothers have all these books? What did they do? What does God think about STTN?

When I read the Bible (the real one, not one of the "What to Expect..." series), I see nothing about STTN. Ok, there are a few passages about sleep. But I don't think my baby is any less Godly because she has never STTN. (Ok, maybe I occasionally think that at 2 am!) What I do see, is that as a mom I had better focus more on developing her character and training her "in the way that she should go" than spending all my time trying to get her to sleep.

When I ask my mom about when I STTN when I was a baby, she doesn't seem to really remember. (And I don't have ADHD, I didn't quit high school and I've never been in jail, thank God!) Back then, they didn't focus on it like we do now. We are so competitive these days, it's almost like a reality TV show, like my baby is going to get "voted off the island" if she is the weakest link. We have Baby Einstein and yoga for babies and did you know your 3 month old can now read and do sign language and go potty?

Please don't think I am saying that sleep is unimportant. I know it is. There is a Yiddish saying, "Eating and drinking and sleeping all come naturally, but praying and studying Torah seem to take much effort." Ariella will STTN when she is ready to. Just as it took us a few days to learn to BF, she will learn to STTN. But I must teach her to pray and study God's Word. Those are the priorities. The other stuff is secondary. We have to keep first things first. And in my four and a half months as a mom, that's what I've learned.

Oh, gotta go...someone just woke up!

Coming back...

2010-01-07T11:34:00.003-05:00

Dear blog,

I'm sorry I've neglected you. I haven't written a good post in a long time. I miss you. I'm coming back.

I know I need to clean you up a bit, and that may take a few days. But I will, and you'll be better than ever.

Love,

Jenny M

Happy Hanukkah!

2009-12-09T09:19:00.004-05:00

Just in time for the holiday...here's a free 56-page Hanukkah E-book. Whether this is your first time celebrating this joyous festival or your 50th, this book is sure to be a blessing! My family has used it for years.

And since you haven't seen her in a while, here's my almost-four-month-old (can you believe it's been that long???)!

Publix: Cheap Cheerios and FREE Bananas!

2009-06-16T09:07:00.002-04:00

Ok...I know this deal is only good for two more days, but I just saw it yesterday and tried it.

Cheerios are BOGO right now at Publix. Get two boxes, and a bunch of bananas (preferably a small bunch to get them free!).
Use the $1/2 coupon from the 6/14 Smartsource.
Also use the $1 off Bananas wyb Cheerios Publix coupon also from the 6/14 Smartsource.

My particular bunch of bananas was 85 cents...so my grand total for two boxes of Cheerios (multigrain..yum!) and 4 bananas was $3.14!

I don't think that's too bad for someone who's been out of the loop lately. It's good to be back!

It's getting to be about that time...

2009-06-12T13:29:00.002-04:00

I can't believe I haven't posted on here in 6 months. As you can imagine, life has been a little crazy. I'm now 32 weeks pregnant...and Baby M is due on August 3rd!

All in all, this has been a pretty uneventful pregnancy (Baruch Hashem!), and I can't wait to hold my little girl! Please be in prayer for us as her birth day quickly approaches.

Graphic available at AllPosters.com.

Input Requested - Being Frugal during Changing Seasons of Life!

2009-01-30T13:18:00.008-05:00

Being frugal is not always easy. For the past three months, I have clipped maybe 10 coupons (which is nothing for me), have looked at store sales perhaps 4 times, and have done the shopping even less. If you know me or have read my blog for any length of time, you would know that these things are some of my favorite things to do. I LOVE saving money. However, for the past three months, I have also been experiencing almost constant nausea, vomiting and exhaustion which has made my usually frugal self kind of jump out the window (well, not completely).

I am so grateful for a wonderful husband who has been doing a lot of the shopping and cooking and has gotten me take out when I needed it. He is amazing. Everyone keeps telling me to simply enjoy this season of life, but I do wish I could do more to help. I'd really love it if anyone, especially moms, could give some input as to easy meals to make that were good when you were pregnant. I'm having a hard time eating meat right now and my stomach is very touchy, so it has really limited my choices and I have run out of ideas. This is our first child, so this is all very new to me! I am very thankful for this child and this season of life, I just feel so different. My husband is wondering when I'm going to go back to CVS! It better be soon because the toilet paper I stocked up on in October is almost gone!

Thank you for your input. I really do appreciate you all.

For some other ideas on being frugal, see Frugal Friday at Biblical Womanhood.

Picture available at AllPosters.com.

P.S. This is NOT my belly yet! I'm only 13 weeks! : )

P.S.S. Right after I posted this, I found this great post at Keeper of the Home. Isn't it great how your fellow bloggers can enhance your life???

Breaking the Silence...

2009-01-28T12:54:00.004-05:00

Ok folks, if you wanna know where I've been for the past few weeks, here's a "little" hint!

"Mystery" Roar Detected from Faraway Space

2009-01-09T13:37:00.004-05:00

There is "something new and interesting going on in the universe," said Alan Kogut of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md.

I don't know about you, butI feel like there are some interesting things going on in the world today. Here's one of the latest...

Mystery Roar Detected from Faraway Space

I can't help but think of the words of the prophet Amos -

"The lion hath roared; who will not fear? the LORD GOD hath spoken, who can but prophesy?"

I did a search on Google for "lion of judah roars" and saw this message from the ICEJ. Now, you may not agree with everything in this message, however, I loved the last point. Perhaps this "mysterious" roaring has something to do with the Lion of Judah!

Dude, Where's My Car?

2008-12-12T11:27:00.003-05:00

Well friends, I'm sorry I have been pretty non-existent on here for a few weeks. Between Thanksgiving, a wedding (my sister-in-law's) and going out of my house one morning only to find that my car had been stolen...it's been an insane (but good!) couple of weeks. Honestly, I should have known it was coming. After reading Rabbi Lazer Brody's Garden of Emuna, I have been praying for HaShem to increase my emuna (faith) through the situations in my life. It sure has been a wild (but good!) ride, and I'm excited to see what HE has in store for us next. He is so good, so faithful and amazing. I'll be back soon, but check out my archives if you want! Miss you all!

P.S. Don't worry...He hasn't left me high and dry as a strict pedestrian! My awesome co-workers and husband have graciously been making sure I get around! I was even able to sneak in a CVS run this week to get the 15 ProMax bars for free...Yummy!

Macy's Friends and Family 20% off Coupon!

2008-12-09T10:20:00.001-05:00

Download the Macy's Friends and Family Coupon!

Five Reasons I ♥ the Sabbath!

2008-11-21T06:15:00.003-05:00

This is our table one Friday evening before we ushered in the Shabbat.

1. God made it for us!

After He created us, what did He do next? He created the Sabbath, by resting Himself. Also in Mark 2, Yeshua literally said that Shabbat was made for man. It is His gift to us, and we should enjoy it!

2. We need it!

Studies have shown, and it's just plain common sense, that human beings need a "day of rest" every week. If you think about it, God could have made our bodies so that we didn't need rest or sleep. He could have made us so that we were able to just go, go, go 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. BUT, He didn't. He created us so that our bodies, our souls, our minds all needed a physical, spiritual and mental break.

3. It's something to look forward to.

All week long people say, "Is it Friday yet?" I kind of laugh to myself because they don't know it, but they are longing for the Sabbath as well. The rabbis say that starting Saturday evening immediately after the Sabbath, we should begin preparing for the next one. I heard a story about a lady who after every Havdalah (conclusion service of the Sabbath) would scurry to the kitchen to begin cleaning her Sabbath candlesticks for the next week. I, myself, remember the first time our family celebrated the Shabbat. I think I was around 8 or 9, but it is such a vivid memory. Immediately after the Sabbath meal on Friday evening, my sister and I begged our parents, "Can we do this again next week?"

4. It's a holiday, only every week!

If you ever get the chance to go to my parents' house for a Shabbat dinner, I highly recommend it. My dad has this theory that the more people they have for Shabbat, the better; the more food for Shabbat, the better. So basically, it is like celebrating Thanksgiving dinner with your family and friends every Friday night. It's not only fun, but a great way to bond as a family. We eat (of course!), sing songs, talk about the Bible, and just enjoy each other. It truly is a beautiful time.

5. It's a rehearsal.

One of the words God uses in the Torah for Shabbat is mikrah, which can be translated as "a rehearsal." What are we rehearsing for? The Seventh "Day", that is, the time when Messiah returns! Remember His words in John 9, "Night is coming, when no one can work." Some rabbis have said that we are entering in to the "Friday afternoon" of God's timeline. It's time for us to work like never before, to be prepared for the "Yom Shekulo Shabbat" (the Day that is ALL Sabbath) that is coming.

Those are just a few reasons I LOVE the Sabbath. If you want to read more about how my family celebrates, go here. How about you? I'd love to hear how others enjoy God's special day!

For Many Shall Come in My Name...

2008-11-14T15:52:00.004-05:00

Matthew 24:5 - Do NOT be deceived!

It seems like everyone is talking about it. "The Messiah's coming, the Messiah's coming!" Actually, there's an elderly lady at my synagogue that asks me every Shabbat, "Is the Messiah coming soon?" "I hope so," is my reply every time. And now, I really do mean it. When I was younger, I used to think (which I'm kind of ashamed to admit now), "I hope Moshiach doesn't come until after I get married, or have kids, etc." But now, I really do mean it. If he came today, that would be A-OK with me!

Today I read an interesting article by Rabbi Lazer Brody here that really encouraged me. I like the fact that there is much rabbinic disdain for trying to speculate about specific details of the Messiah's arrival. I like that he encourages "simple and innocent faith" that Messiah IS coming. Read his article and let me know what you think!

Picture available at AllPosters.com

Romans 14

2008-11-13T17:18:00.003-05:00

"Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters. One man's faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. The man who eats everything must not look down on him who does not, and the man who does not eat everything must not condemn the man who does, for God has accepted him. Who are you to judge someone else's servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.
One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord. He who eats meat, eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains, does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God. For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone. If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. "

If you've ever wondered what exactly Shaul (Paul) is talking about in this passage, I just read this very interesting and thought-provoking post on The Emergent Observer. Check it out!

Yet Another Reason I May Go Vegetarian

2008-11-13T10:09:00.004-05:00

As if soaring prices alone weren't enough to convince me to go completely veggie, I just read this eye-opening post at Fresh Thoughts from the Laundry Room. If you want to read more about Kosher eating, go to my post here.

Picture available at AllPosters.com.

Where Have I Been???

2008-11-13T09:12:00.004-05:00

I'm so sorry about my non-existence on here for the past week. In addition to my normal semi-hectic schedule, I had dental implant surgery done on Monday and have just not felt like being on the computer beyond the 8 hours at work. Honestly, the surgery itself did not hurt that much (probably less than my botched root canal a few years ago), but I think I should take it easy so that it all heals up quickly. Actually, only phase one of the implant is done, which is the titanium screw. The crown will be attached in about two months. I'm just so thankful that I didn't have to get a bridge. I feel like I'm too young for that! : )

I'm starting to wonder how women who have children do all of this. I'm tired enough after waking early and going to work and then coming home and cooking dinner and washing dishes and doing laundry! Blogging is fun for me, and I love reading other blogs but sometimes it just seems like there aren't enough hours in the day. I know I shouldn't worry. When God decides to bless my husband and me with a child, HE alone will give me the strength to be able to do it all. It's just that sometimes I feel guilty for feeling overwhelmed, and there's only two of us. I just want to be faithful with what God has given me responsibility for thus far. Does anyone else ever feel this way?

One of My Favorite Things...

2008-11-03T20:43:00.005-05:00

Have you tried the new Sharpie Mini? I got one about a year ago, and seriously I love this thing. I take it with me EVERYWHERE. And now, people have caught on. They always want to use it! "Jen, can I use your Sharpie Mini?" I'm not getting paid to say this...although if the Sharpie company would like to pay me I would not object. I don't know if this love for my mini-marker makes me a nerd. If it does, so be it. I heart my Sharpie Mini.

And...it really did make my day yesterday when I got two Sharpie Mini's for FREE at Publix!

Whoo hoo!

What's your favorite thing? Check out Fiddledeedee for more favorite things of the week!

My Favorite Publix Deals of the Week!

2008-11-03T20:18:00.006-05:00

I didn't get a picture from my Publix trip yesterday, but here are my favorite deals for this week (until Wednesday night in my corner of the world):

Ziploc Easy Zipper Bags with Fresh Shield (various sizes) - on sale 2/$3.00
- Used $1/1 coupons found on displays in many local Publix stores. Makes each box 50 cents each!

Green Giant Steamers Frozen Vegetables - on sale 50% off
Used $1/1 coupons here (Thanks Sarah!) Made each bag of veggies 19 cents each!

Solo Grips Plastic Cups/Plates - Buy One, Get One Free $4.69.
No coupons, but I needed these for Thanksgiving, and I was so excited about the bonus FREE mini-Sharpies inside that it definitely was a good deal!

However, my ABSOLUTE favorite deal was my FREE Yoplait yogurt thanks to the Publix Promise! The sign on the shelf read $2.50, but they scanned $2.59 (I guess the price is going up!). So of course, I quickly pointed it out to my friendly cashier. Yay for free yogurt!

Wanna be a Publix Super Saver? Head back to Fiddledeedee for more great Publix deals this week!

Keeping Lean (and Green!) on a Lean Budget

2008-10-31T13:13:00.006-04:00

Yesterday I read a slightly disturbing article on MSNBC entitled "Surprise: Lean times may actually make you fat." Basically the article was saying that during times of economic slowdowns, Americans tend to rely more on "comfort food" and low-quality food, such as "dollar-menu" fast food. Well, after reading it, I thought more about it and how by reading some wonderful blogs I have actually begun eating healthier and less expensively. Here are a few key ideas I've learned recently:

1) At the grocery store, shop mostly from the "perimeter." Think about it, most of the natural, whole foods are located around the outside walls - fruits, veggies, dairy products, fresh meats. Most of the processed, "unnatural" foods are in the middle.

2) Look for seasonal produce that is marked-down. This goes without saying, but right now in the end of October is probably not the best time to be buying tomatoes. However, apples are so cheap around here right now. Be flexible with your taste buds and try new fruit and vegetables!

3) Find a farmer's market or similar place to get really cheap produce. I always used to buy all my produce from the regular grocery store. But a good friend has been prompting me to try a local farmer's market, which I finally did. Wow! Not only were the prices good, but the quality was even better than that of the grocery store produce!

4) Check out sales and coupons for Organic products. You can find coupons for many organic products at Mambo Sprouts and Sarah at Fiddledeedee always has great organic deals posted on her blog.

5) Be creative with "comfort" foods. Just gotta have some homemade cookies? Throw some whole grains (oatmeal, flax, bran, etc.) and some fruit (raisins, cranberries, etc.) in there INSTEAD of chocolate chips. Make baked apples or grill some fresh pineapple. I have the worst sweet tooth ever - but now I am learning to satisfy it in much better ways. Better yet - don't run to food for comfort at all...crack open your Bible and pray to your Heavenly Father. He knows what we are all going through at this season.

Just because our budgets are tighter (or we are simply starting to budget!) doesn't mean we are left to Mac N Cheese and Ramen noodles! We just have to be a little creative and resourceful.

Anyone got any other tips? I'd love to hear them!

Want more Frugal Friday ideas? Head back to Biblical Womanhood.

Picture available at AllPosters.com

The Foolish Man Builds His House Upon the Sand

2008-10-30T20:16:00.005-04:00

This picture was taken a few days ago on the island where I grew up. It is still amazing to me to think that I lived my entire life on this tiny little barrier island that is less than a quarter mile wide in some places.

When I was a little girl, my mom taught me a little song that goes like this:

The wise man built his house upon the rock.

The wise man built his house upon the rock,

And the rains came tumbling down.

The rains came down, and the floods rose up.

But the house on the rock stood firm.

The foolish man built his house upon the sand.

And the rains came tumbling down.

The rains came down, and the floods rose up.

And the house on the sound fell down. CRASH!

After singing this song a few times, I got to thinking..."Mom, why is our house built on the sand like the foolish man? If a hurricane comes, our house could go CRASH???" My patient mom would then try to explain how the "stilts" that our house sat upon actually were dug very deep into the sand, so our house shouldn't go anywhere.

Well, as I was reading the Torah portion this week, I was struck by how much I feel like Noah's family at this time. There's so much going on around us - the economic crisis, a crazy election process for our nation, a "holiday" that exhorts witchcraft and paganism, just to name a few. In the midst of all this confusion where even fellow believers seem to be "going with the flow" of society, following God's Word can definitely make you stick out like that proverbial old sore thumb.

However, as we read about Noah and his family, it's comforting to know that most of the time the people who ARE following the Scriptures ARE different. And that is simply because the Word of God has not, does not, and will not ever change. It is that Rock spoken of by Yeshua in Matthew 7. Yes, in this world it is popular to be flexible, to be fluid, to be like "shifting sands." "The Constitution is living," they say. "It is to be interpreted differently with the times."

It's time for the people of God to be unpopular. To do hard things. To be different. To be built on the Rock and not on the sand. I will not apologize for offending anyone. I'm not being judgmental. God is the Judge of all. He alone judges me and everyone else in the world. However, we can know how to please Him - we just need to look in the Book!

As you read the Torah portion for this week, be sure to check out Matthew 7 along with it.

Shabbat Shalom!

In case you were wondering, read "Do Jews Celebrate Halloween?" here.

Man Shall Not Live by Bread Alone

2008-10-24T13:29:00.003-04:00

...But by every Word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God!

This week was the celebration of Simchat Torah, which means "Rejoicing of the Torah." We take the Torah scroll out of the ark and lay it out for all to see. Then it is reversed and the rolled the opposite way so that we can start all over at B'resheit, Genesis.

Simchat Torah is one of the most joyous holidays, and for that reason, one of my personal favorites. As I watch people dance around in ecstasy carrying the Torah, it is a feeling that I cannot even describe! It's a fresh feeling of starting all over, that as we march through God's calendar again this coming year and read through the Torah as a community, things will change. That somehow next year will be different, better. It's knowing that God's Word is His love letter to all of us. It's the complete feeling of trusting in Him.

Yes, storms may come - hurricanes, economic downturns, political unrest...but the peace of knowing God and trusting in His Divine Providence will see us through.

Would you like to join us this year as we read through the Torah? This week's portion is B'resheit (Genesis 1:1 - 6:8).

TorahPortions.org is a wonderful new website that always has all the information on the weekly portion as well!

"Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts." Jeremiah 15:16 (KJV)
Picture available at Allposters.com.

When You Don't Get What You Deserve...

2008-10-22T19:59:00.005-04:00

Question for my wonderful blogging (or non-blogging) friends...

What would do you do when a merchant does not deliver what was promised?

Back in late May of this year (2008), my husband and I booked a hotel room with a major online travel agent. When we did so, we used a coupon code (advertised on the travel agent's website) to receive a $50 gas card back in the mail.

Here's the actual terms and conditions of the coupon code from my confirmation email:

1. Offer valid only for bookings of a stand-alone hotel stay of at least three (3) nights made between May 19, 2008 and July 6, 2008, with stays completed by September 1, 2008. A "booking" is a stay of consecutive nights in one room at the same property, booked at the same time on the same credit card. Package bookings are not eligible. 2. You must book and prepay on www.hotels.com or through the hotels.com Contact Center at 1-800-246-8357. Offer is not valid for bookings made on any non-U.S. domain, including, but not limited, to www.hotels.fr or www.hotels.it . 3. Offer only applicable for those properties covered by the hotels.com Price Match Guarantee located at http://www.hotels.com/flexible-booking. Bookings at the following brand is not eligible: Marriott. 4. $50 gas card will be mailed to the billing address used for the booking within 30 days of your completed stay. 5. $50 gas card will be mailed to US and Canadian addresses only. 6. Limit: one (1) gas card per booking. 7. Not valid with any other coupon offer. 8. Not redeemable for cash. 9. Offer good while supplies last. 10. Offer may be revoked without notice at any time. Void where prohibited.

As you probably guessed, we still have NOT received our gas card despite at least 3 phone calls and 3 emails to customer care. Every time I communicate with them, they assure me that my gas card is being expedited. I'm very frustrated.

However, I also believe Romans 8:28 - "In ALL things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." I pray that whatever He is trying to teach me through this situation, I will learn. Patience and longsuffering, perhaps?

So, I'm interested, what would you do?

Picture from Allposters.com

The Modesty Survey

2008-10-19T14:00:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone! It's been so long! Well, as you have probably assumed, I have been enjoying a very "full" life during this wonderful holiday season. I hope to get back to our regular schedule here very soon!

I was doing a little reading today, and I ran across The Modesty Survey. Let me tell you...very interesting stuff. Modesty is something that is very near and dear to my heart, although I have shyed away from talking about it a lot on here. I feel like I tend to get "preachy" when I talk about it, since the "rules" of modesty are not hard-and-fast rules at all. However, the survey has very interesting results, and I just wanted to give you the link in case you might be interested! Enjoy!

I'm over at my parents' house for the weekend, enjoying their sukkah, but I'll be back soon.

Quick Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles) Links...

2008-10-13T17:12:00.004-04:00

Hey folks, high holiday season is a doozy isn't it? Whew! Well, I'm headed out to our congregation's opening service for the Feast of Tabernacles, but I wanted to give you a few links to click through while I'm gone.

First of all, read Leviticus 23. Tonight (Oct. 13) at sundown is the first day of Sukkot (Tabernacles).

Here's the links:
Introduction to Sukkot (Messianic Jewish Musings)

Gimme Shelter (Searching for Bright Light)

Camping Out (Tammy's Recipes)

Sukkot: A Feast of the Lord (Femininity in a Feminist World)

Download a Free Torah Reading Schedule for 5769

Be back soon!

Picture courtesy of Yeshuat Yisrael.

Creating/Maintaining a Kitchen Stockpile

2008-10-07T06:30:00.004-04:00

The number one most important thing I have learned from my year of becoming a frugal shopper is to create and maintain a stockpile. Now, don't think that I mean you must have a large amount of room and you have to have enough canned goods to last you for two years. My husband and I live in a 2 bedroom condo that has just enough space at the present. However, I have learned in the past year to keep my kitchen (and household!) running smoothly, it really helps to have a small stockpile.

First: Create a list of the products/recipes you use most.
For example, here's some of ours:
- Whole grain Pasta
- Brown Rice
- Beans
- Tomato sauce
- Chicken
- Frozen vegetables
- Taco shells
- Almond milk
- Oatmeal
- Raisins
- Extra virgin olive oil
Et cetera...I think you get the point.

Second: Make a habit of collecting coupons for those items.
Whether you subscribe to the Sunday paper or have your neighbors and friends give you their leftover inserts, find a way to get coupons for cheap.

Third: Begin to watch the grocery store flyers for sales of those items. Try to match coupons with sales.
I have to be honest. I am pretty much stuck on one grocery store (Publix). Usually, I do not venture outside of that place; however, I do keep my eye on the sales of other stores. Why? It teaches me what really is a good price for something and what is not. Publix has a great number of Buy One Get One Free products every week. When my stockpile items are on BOGO, I grab my coupons (always use 2 coupons for BOGO's!) and "stock up!"

This "mini-stockpiling" has saved us in the long run, and cuts down on the number of trips to the grocery store. Gone are the days of, "We don't have anything for dinner!" Also gone are the days of paying full price for items that were on sale just last week. If I want something and ran out, most of the time I make myself wait until it's on sale again. Publix seems to run the BOGO's on a fairly short cycle (I'm assuming the other stores do too).

For more great Kitchen Tip Tuesday ideas, see Tammy's blog.

Picture from Healthline.

Floating Bagels

2008-10-05T15:33:00.004-04:00

"Who is a God like You, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea."

This past week we celebrated Yom Teruah (the Biblical name for Rosh Hashanah in Leviticus 23). One of the traditions of this day is to hold a "Tashlich" service, which is based on the scripture from the prophet Micah (7:18 -19) above. In this service, the participants throw stones or bread into a body of water to remember that God does essentially the same as He forgives our sin. It's usually a very short service (at least the ones I've attended) and is usually not belabored because there is a traditionally a mouth-watering holiday dinner waiting at home.

This year something a little unique happened at our service, and I thought I would share it with my precious readers. Usually on Shabbat (Saturday) we have bagels for oneg. Tons of bagels. So on the Shabbat preceding the holiday, I decided to save some of the bags of leftover bagels for the Tashlich service. When Tuesday came around, those bagels were quite hard. So I thought they would be a good mix of rocks and/or bread!

When I got to the water, I started handing out the bagels to the people who hadn't brought anything to throw. Now, it had never entered my mind that people would throw the entire bagel into the water. But alas, that's what everyone did. When I got to the water's edge, I couldn't believe my eyes...about a dozen bagels floating on the water! I wish I could have taken a picture to share with you; it was quite a sight!

Of course, there is some spiritual application to this story. Sometimes I pray and repent of a certain sin, but I don't forgive myself. I accept God's forgiveness of my sin, but I leave it floating there on the top of the water. The sight I saw this Rosh Hashanah was one that will stay with me for some time to come. We have to remember that when God forgives us...it's over! Let it go! The Scripture says He throws into the DEPTHS of the sea. Don't allow the enemy to trick you into "floating your sins" so that you can live in guilt. God has forgiven us much, so we must do for others...including ourselves!

Favorite Publix Deal this Week: Almond Milk!

2008-10-02T06:45:00.003-04:00

I know this isn't a weekly deal at Publix (it's an Advantage Buy special that's good for a few weeks), but it really is exciting for me (it doesn't take much!).

Blue Diamond Almond Breeze almond milk is on sale for 2 for $5. Add in the abundant $1 coupons (recent inserts, blinkies in Publix) and you've got yourself a half gallon of almond milk for $1.50!

My husband and I found that we LOVE this stuff, even more than soy milk. The half gallons are refridgerated in the organic section of Publix.

Give it a try!

For more Publix deals, be sure to check out Fiddledeedee. Sarah is one amazing woman!

The Feast of Trumpets

2008-09-26T15:13:00.005-04:00

Ahh, the Feast of Trumpets, also known as Yom Teruah, also known as Rosh HaShanah, also known as the Jewish New Year, also known as the Day of the Blowing of the Shofar, also known as the Birthday of the World, also known as the first of the "High Holy Days"...well, I think you get the point. A day known by any other name will still be as sweet!

Yes, this Biblical holiday is known by many names. From that perspective, one might draw the conclusion that this is a holiday that the Bible has a lot to speak. Actually, that is not the case. Yom Teruah, as it is called in Leviticus 23 (God's calendar), is spoken of only briefly throughout the entire Bible.

Here's what we do know about this holy day from Leviticus 23:

- It is to be celebrated on the 1st day of the 7th month (Tishri 1).

- It is to be a "day of complete rest."

- You are to have a "holy convocation."

- You are to sound the shofar, a ram's horn.

- You are to present an offering made by fire.

Sounds like a party, right? No work? Blowing horns? I'm there!

Here's how we celebrate Yom Teruah, 21st century style:

- Taking off a day or two from our occupations. Yes, people that follow the Biblical holidays do end up using quite a bit of PTO on these holidays.

- Going to synagogue or meeting with fellow believers (our version of a "holy convocation"). This is the time when people that you never see at synagogue decide to show up and have their annual rendezvous with God. Which is better than never, in my opinion. When God makes a few dates with you, at least keep one or two.

- Praying special prayers and singing special songs. The prayers and songs of this day focus on God as King, beautified by rich melodies.

- Having a big meal. This, of course, is the Biblical way to celebrate anything. Ok, maybe not Biblical. But the People of the Book sure do enjoy a good feast! Hey, they aren't called the Feasts of the LORD for nothing! We eat things like roast chicken or turkey, kugel, that stuff I'll never like called gefilte fish, tzimmes (think honey glazed carrots with prunes and other yummy stuff), honey cake and of course APPLES AND HONEY. I cannot overemphasize how important apples and honey are to the modern Rosh HaShanah festivities. You see, the theme of the day is "Have a SWEET New Year."

L'Shana Tovah! For a good new year!
For more on Rosh HaShanah, go here.

*Congratulations to our winners for the Rosh HaShanah giveaway:
1st prize = babybeth07
2nd prize = wendymom
Thanks for participating ladies!

Publix Rosh HaShanah Deals!

2008-09-26T09:11:00.008-04:00

Have a frugal Biblical holiday...with a little help from our friends at Publix! Here are the deals you can get this week that relate to traditional Rosh HaShanah foods:

Streit's Matzo Ball Soup Mix - BOGO (2 for $2.59)

Empire Kosher Turkey - $1.89/lb.

Manichewitz Noodles - 2 for $3.00 Perfect for noodle kugel!

Manichewitz Wine - 2 for $7.00

Publix Baby Cut and Peeled Carrots - BOGO (1, 2 or 3 lb. bags) Perfect for tzimmes!

Royal Gala Apples - $1.29/lb. Gotta have apples and honey!

Round Challah Bread - $2.49

Chinet Classic White Plates - BOGO (2 for $6.39) My Publix also has 75 cent off blinkies for the Chinet...use 2 coupons and get 2 for $4.89!

For more Rosh HaShanah recipes, see Allrecipes.com

For more great Frugal Friday ideas, see Biblical Womanhood Blog.

*For a New Year, how about a "new do"? Leave a comment on this post by 8 pm EST on Sunday, September 28th, for a chance to win a $10 coupon for any salon service at Regis Hair Salon. I'll do a random drawing that evening and post the winner on Monday morning. You must live in the continental US to win.

Picture courtesy of AllPosters.com

Fall Feast Time!

2008-09-24T14:41:00.008-04:00

Well, I finally think Blogger is going to let me publish a post, and just in time for the fall feasts too!

As the fall feasts are less than a week away, there's no time like the present on starting with an introduction. For those of you that were reading during the spring feasts, you've got a head start so feel free to skip the next paragraph.

God's Biblical Calendar

Did you know that God has a calendar, and it's not the one that has January through December on it? God's calendar is (of course) in His Word; specifically, Leviticus 23. As you read this chapter, you will find that there are four feasts in the spring (Passover, Unleavened Bread and First Fruits and Pentecost - Pesach, Matzah, HaBikkurim and Shavu'ot) and three in the fall (Trumpets, Day of Atonement and Tabernacles - Yom Teruah or Rosh HaShanah, Yom Kippur and Sukkot). Additionally, Leviticus 23 discusses one more special day, but this one comes every week. Shabbat, or the Sabbath, is a day of rest that God's people are to observe every seventh day.

God's Calendar = Messianic Prophetic Timeline

The Messiah Yeshua is the living Torah. That means that everything (EVERYTHING) that He said and did was in accordance and in fulfillment of the Torah, including the feasts of the LORD. With the spring feasts it is very evident how Yeshua fulfilled them. He died on Passover and arose on Yom HaBikkurim, the Feast of Firstfruits. Fifty days later on Shavuot, the Feast of Weeks (also called Pentecost), the Ruach Kodesh (Holy Spirit) came down and filled the believers. For more on the spring feasts, see here and here.

As for the fall feasts, we know that Messiah Yeshua will be fulfilling them as well. Rosh HaShanah (known Biblically as Yom Teruah, the Day of Trumpets) will be the day that the great shofar is sounded, and Yeshua will be revealed. On Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, will be a day of judgment. Finally, on Sukkot (a seven day festival), God Himself will dwell with His people. We do not know the day (which year) or the hour (what time on that day), but we do know if Yeshua fulfilled all of the spring feasts on the exact day, then it's pretty clear that if He is who He said He was, then all the fall feasts will be fulfilled as well.

A Quick Note on the Meaning of Fulfillment

When I say that Yeshua "fulfilled" the feasts, please do not read "ended" or "stopped." Just like on my wedding day, my husband "fulfilled" his role as my husband but did not stop being my husband after that day. I am using the word "fulfill" as in "to make complete" or "to bring to fullness", as I believe it was used in Matthew 5.

Fall Feast Schedule for 2008

Days that are a Biblical "day of rest."

Rosh HaShanah - Begins at sundown on Monday, September 29.
Yom Kippur - Begins at sundown on Wednesday, October 8.
First Day of Sukkot - Begins at sundown on Monday, October 13.
Last Day of Sukkot - Begins at sundown on Monday, October 20.

More To Come...
Check back in the next few days for specific posts on how we celebrate each holiday. I'd LOVE to hear how you celebrate the feasts, or if you are new, if you have any questions. Maybe you'd like to share your favorite holiday recipe or another idea?

Picture available at AllPosters.com

2008-09-24T07:06:00.001-04:00

I'm trying to do a new post, but the "New Post" screen is really messed up! Is anyone else having this problem? Does anyone know how to fix this? Thanks!

My Favorite Publix Deal of the Week

2008-09-22T18:48:00.003-04:00

Since I am in a season of life right now that does not give me as much time as I'd like to devote to posting ALL of the Publix weekly deals, I decided to post my favorite deal once a week. That way, I'll be able to tell you the absolute best deal, in my opinion, as well as remind you to go to Fiddledeedee for the WHOLE scoop!

As you probably guessed from the picture, my favorite Publix deal is on the Pompeian Olive Oil. It is Buy One, Get One (BOGO) and there are $1 printable coupons on the website. I was able to print at least 2 coupons (haven't tried for more yet), so:

Buy 2 Pompeian Extra Virgin Olive Oil 32 oz. ($11.99 each)

Use 2 $1 off coupons here

Get 2 for $9.99!

Remember, Publix sales run Thursday to Wednesday (in Florida) and Wednesday to Tuesday in other states, I believe.

Thanks to Sarah at Fiddledee for alerting me to the coupons!

Wellness360 Can Really Pay Off!

2008-09-18T20:35:00.005-04:00

I have been waiting a long time to tell you about wellness360 because I wanted to try it out myself first, and make sure that it is legitimate. How does it work?

First: Sign up.

Originally, I had signed up to get that old $5/$15 CVS coupon that everyone was raving about months ago. I started receiving emails that claimed that I could make money just by clicking around the site, and using the tools there.

Second: Start using the site.

They actually have some pretty useful components on the site, including health articles, exercise videos, and my personal favorite - a food/calorie journal. Your points do seem to add up slowly, but little by little, you start earning more.

Third: Invite others to join.

This is the highest point-earning activity. Within 3 months of using the site and inviting my friends to join, I had earned over $30...not bad for clicking around a site for about 5 minutes here and there.

Finally: GET PAID CUZ!!!

A few weeks ago, I had received an email saying that wellness360 needed my SSN to send my check due to tax regulations. I didn't do it. I'm really into this whole privacy thing and not having my identity stolen, so I was a little disappointed. However, tonight when my husband was cleaning up our office he found a check from wellness360 (it actually comes from Aperture Health) for $36.07 made out to me! So I guess they didn't need my SSN after all!

All in all, I think this is a great idea. They have advertisers (of course) on the site, and they share that revenue with the users. I am wondering if anyone out there has had any experiences with wellness360 that they would like to share? I can see how if I spent a few minutes a day doing this it could be very rewarding!

ALSO, if you decide to sign up because you read this on Tavita's Purse, I would REALLY appreciate if you input my enrollment code (ahm803124) when you sign up! : ) Thanks!

For more Frugal Friday ideas, head over to BiblicalWomanhood.

CVS Deals 9/14 - 9/20 2008 - Free Aleve and Excedrin!

2008-09-16T06:35:00.003-04:00

I know I haven't been doing a lot of CVS blogging lately, but since this is a pretty good week, in my opinion, for beginners I'll post a few deals. I hope I can turn a few more people on to this wonderful system!

Deal Idea:
Buy 1 Aleve D Cold and Sinus or Sinus Headache at $3.99
Buy 1 Excedrin Express Gels at $3.99
Buy 1 Purex Laundry Detergent (50 oz.) at $2.99

Coupons:
$2/$10 (if you have)
$1 off Aleve
$1 off Excedrin Express Gels CRT (if it prints for you; mine printed yesterday at the card scanner)
50 cents off Purex from 8/10 SmartSource insert

Spend: $6.47 OOP (or use ECB's to pay!)
Make: $8.98 ECB's!

IT'S ECB-MAKING TIME! WHOO HOO!

For more deal ideas, see MoneySavingMom and The Centsible Sawyer! I love these gals!

Putting Your Spouse First

2008-09-12T13:06:00.003-04:00

"If you treat your husband like a king, he will treat you like a queen." This wise advice from the Talmud is not something we have an easy time putting into practice. We're afraid we'll get stepped on, become doormats, we're concerned our needs won't be met, we don't want to feel like shmattes, we don't want it to be about him. ~ Emuna Braverman

Read the rest of the post here at Aish.com.

Parasha Ponderings: When You Go Out

2008-09-11T20:19:00.004-04:00

This week's parasha is Ki Tetze or "When You Go Out" for us English-speakers, and can be found in Deuteronomy 21:10 - 25:19. At first glance, it seems like a bunch of random rules all thrown in one chapter and stirred a bit for good measure. I seriously had to read the portion 3 times before I felt confident even to even write about it. Why all the "random" laws? If God is so powerful, couldn't He be a bit more organized???

Here's the thing - God's idea of organized is much, much different than our idea of organized and this portion is yet another to prove this theory. For example, the first section talks about what to do if you go out to war and see a pretty lady from the other side that you want to marry. This follows into a section about what to do if you have two wives, one loved and the other unloved. Hmmm...and then of course, the very next section talks about what to do if you have a very rebellious son...which a few verses later digresses into what to do if you are walking along and happen upon a nest with a mother bird and some chicks. See what I mean?

I was listening to the radio as I was getting ready for work this morning, and one of the morning show hosts was telling a story about how one day he prayed for a car. "And make it a convertible while You're at it," he added, rather sarcastically. Well, about two hours later, someone had given him a car. Yep, it's a convertible. He went on to say that while he's very thankful for the car and still amazed that this happened, the only explanation is that for some reason God decided to give him a car that day. A convertible.

People could say that was random, or that it was just "coincidence." Well, I happen to not believe that anything is coincidence, but I also do not believe that there is a "magic formula" when it comes to prayer. God is just not like that. Yes, there are prayers in the Bible that are all fine and great to pray, and I do so myself quite often. However, we have to get passed this idea that this infinite, all-powerful, King over kings over kings confines Himself to this teeny, tiny little box that we so often deduce Him down to. He just doesn't fit.

So, back to the "random rules" of Ki Tetze. I actually don't think they are random at all. Do I have an explanation for why they are where they are? Not at all! I actually don't have a clue...but that's the beauty of God. When you read these teachings, they actually make a lot of sense and I think we would do well to observe them today. (Read my last post here). Especially the part about paying a hired worker before sunset! I would LOVE to get paid everyday!

The last part of the portion seems really out of place, especially the first two times I read the portion this week. However, this evening as I was reading it, it all made sense. Deuteronomy 25:17 -19 says,

Remember what the Amalekites did to you along the way when you came out of Egypt. When you were weary and worn out, they met you on your journey and cut off all who were lagging behind; they had no fear of God. When the LORD your God gives you rest from all the enemies around you in the land he is giving you to possess as an inheritance, you shall blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven. Do not forget!

Today, the seventh anniversary of 9/11, we remember what was done, in hatred and evil, to our country. The motto of the day is, "Never forget!" How fitting that we read this portion this week as we remember that infamous day when modern-day Amalekites allowed evil to prevail and killed many precious lives. May those who perished be remembered for good, and may we all be reminded that life is short and we must use the time that we have to do good and live for what is ETERNAL.

Shabbat Shalom!

Picture courtesy of Allposters.com, who is having a $4.98 poster sale!

In Review: The Year of Living Biblically by A.J. Jacobs

2008-09-09T07:06:00.004-04:00

What happens when an agnostic writer for Esquire magazine decides to live the Bible, every single verse, LITERALLY for one year? A lot of funny stuff...mixed in with some very serious lessons learned.
I picked this book up recently at the library, and thought it looked interesting. Wow, once I started it, I was not able to put it down! Whenever I was reading it, I would literally be laughing out loud, which my husband thought quite humorous in and of itself.
Not only is A. J. Jacobs a very witty writer, but of course, the subject material was highly interesting as well. However, after reading this book, I think that Jacobs could be writing about the life of rocks and it would still be a best-seller on the NY Times list. This chronicle of Jacobs' journey into the world of Biblical laws, both well-known ("Thou shall not murder.") and a little less known ("Don't take a mother bird with the chicks.") is both entertaining and informative. His experiences include spending time with the Hasidics in Crown Heights, hanging out with a Jehovah's Witness and even a service at a snake-handling church!
Actually, I have to say one thing that truly surprised me. This book went beyond informative for me. It actually delved deep into the devotional realm, which was highly unexpected coming from an agnostic source. However, I found myself being challenged to see some of the more obscure Biblical commandments in a new light. I discovered that as much as I like to say that I take the Bible literally...sometimes my life does not portray that.
As you can probably tell, I highly recommend this book. To anyone. Anywhere. I never buy books, but this is one that I'd love to have on my shelf (hint, hint). Check it out!

I'm Still Here!

2008-09-07T19:21:00.002-04:00

I can't believe I haven't written ANYTHING in over a week on Tavita's Purse! I'm sooo slacking, and I apologize big time! If you want to know what I've been up to, here's a short list:

1) Preparing for the fall Holy Days (see Leviticus 23) - Rosh HaShana, Yom Kippur and Sukkot.

2) Preparing for imminent hurricanes that, thank God, never come. We've had the Weather Channel on almost 24/7 at our house, and I have never heard the words "Local on the 8's" so many times in my life!

3) Preparing lessons for my Shabbat School kids...I love them! They are the best. The class is kindergarteners up to fifth grade, so it's been a huge struggle to make lessons that will suit all of them. But I love the kids, so it's all good.

4) Spending quality time with my husband. I love him so much, and I realize that this season we are in right now will not be forever. So I am trying to treasure every moment that we have together right now.

5) Spending more quality time with friends. There's been birthday parties and impromptu get-togethers, and it's been so good. Friends are truly a gift from God!

6) Spending more quality time with God. As we have now entered into the Hebrew month of Elul, this is the time of preparation for some very important times in God's calendar (see number 1 above). I will try to write more about this soon.

Anyway, I know there's a lot of cool stuff going on in bloggy world, and I'm sorry for not being around lately. I hope to see you all back soon....Thanks for your patience!

Picture available at AllPosters.com.

Parasha Ponderings (Re'eh - "See")

2008-08-29T06:24:00.003-04:00

This week's parasha (see my Hebrew Dictionary on the sidebar) is Deuteronomy 11:26 - 16:17, and is called Re'eh ("See" in English). It begins with a frequently quoted passage,

"See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse - the blessing, if you listen to the mitzvot [commandments] of the LORD your God that I am giving you today; and the curse, if you don't listen to the mitzvot of the LORD your God, but turn aside from the way I am ordering you today and follow gods that you have not known. (CJB)

Seems like an easy choice, right? I mean, who is going to say, "Well, God, I think I'd rather have the curse." But here's the thing: We do it all the time. I do it, you do it, we all do it. We all do things, at times, that end up bringing not-so-good consequences into our lives. That's the bad news.

The good news is that God is very forgiving - VERY, VERY forgiving. Just read the Torah and the Prophets through one time, and you'll see how many times He forgave His people time and again for some pretty bad stuff (bowing down to idols, child sacrifice to other gods, etc.). It's funny to me when I hear preachers read from the Scriptures, and contrast themselves with the children of Israel. Basically saying, "Look at how bad THEY were, but look at how good I am!" Come again? I'm pretty sure it says, "ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23)

Ok, so God promises amazing blessings for those who follow His Word. But, the thing is, not everyone who lives according to God's teachings drives a Mercedes or has a Coach purse. Actually, and I have seen this myself when I traveled to China and Israel, some of the people that live their lives totally for God, end up having the most trouble and are, by this world's standards, quite impoverished. How is that fair???

I love this story about the Chofetz Chaim, a Polish rabbi from the 19th century:

There was once a man traveling through Europe in the 1800’s. He came to the town where the Chofetz Chaim had lived. The traveler stopped in to meet the great Talmid Chacham. When he arrived at the house, he saw that the Chofetz Chaim lived in a tiny home. He knocked on the door and when he looked inside he saw a nearly empty one-bedroom apartment. The traveler asked the Chofetz Chaim, “aren’t you the great Chofetz Chaim? How can you live like this? Where are all of your possessions?” The Chofetz Chaim turned to the traveler and posed the same question. “Where are all of your possessions? All you have with you is a suitcase.” The traveler answered, “Well, I am just passing through,” to which the Chofetz Chaim responded, “I too am just passing through.”

I think this story is a beautiful way to explain this enigma. As my father always says, "We live in an upside down world." That is to say, the people in this life that are called "poor" are many times very "rich." However, there is good news. And that, I believe is summed up in an awesome way by the words of Yeshua in the following parable (Matthew 25:31-46):

"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'
"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
"He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'
"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

(Copyright New International Version)

Therefore, we have two choices: blessing (obedience) or curse (disobedience). The blessing may or may not come in this life, but rest assured that God will reward the righteous in the end.

(Picture from Flickr)

Why I LOVE LOVE LOVE Frugal Shopping!

2008-08-25T19:15:00.004-04:00

This is why I love what I have learned from all my frugal bloggy friends!

Guess how much I paid for all this stuff? $25.61!!!!

That's a total savings of $71.94!

It's been a little over a year since I started reading MoneySavingMom, and boy, have I learned a thing or two about saving, spending wisely, etc.

This haul is a combination of my shopping at CVS and Publix today. The biggest excuse I hear against shopping frugally is that it takes to long to plan and print/clip coupons. Ok, so to blow away that excuse I spent less than an hour planning/printing coupons on this trip. So how many of those people that give me that excuse get paid $71.94 an hour???

Another excuse I hear a lot is that coupons make people buy things they don't need. Ok, out of all that stuff up in the picture (wish you could see it in person!), maybe the only thing I don't need is the fizzy energy drink stuff from CVS (which is free after ECB's this week, by the way)!

The most annoying excuse I hear is that coupons are for poor people or "needy" people. First of all, who in this world does not need anything??? Secondly, look at the stuff I bought. ALL name brand stuff (except for my Publix water, hehe). ALL good quality stuff. I don't feel "poor" or "needy" at all. In fact, I feel very blessed!

The Bible says to "give credit to whom credit is due." So I have to thank Money Saving Mom for all she's taught me, along with The Centsible Sawyer and Sarah at Fiddledeedee.* These ladies are the ones that do all the hard work, so we don't have to!

Thank God for good friends and for always providing MORE than enough!

*For some reason, Blogger is not allowing me to add links at the moment, but all of the links to these sites are on my sidebar - just scroll down a little!

For more Frugal Friday ideas, head over to Biblical Womanhood!

Publix: $1 Sabra Hummus this week!

2008-08-22T16:13:00.003-04:00

Since Sabra brand hummus is my very favorite store-bought kind of hummus, I wanted to share this great deal at Publix this week:

10 oz. Sabra Hummus on sale for 2/$5

Use $1.50 coupon here

Get hummus for $1!

For more Publix deals, see Fiddledeedee.

Shabbat Shalom!

Frugal Friday: I'm a Frugal Misfit...

2008-08-22T10:08:00.005-04:00

Ok, I have to admit something on this beautiful Frugal Friday. I feel really weird sometimes as I am reading all these wonderful frugal blogs that talk about using the Dave Ramsey cash envelope system. For those that don't know what I’m talking about, check out Dave Ramsey’s site here. The basic premise of the cash envelope system is that when you set your budget for the month (or week or whatever), you are to put that amount of cash for each category into an envelope. The idea is that when the cash is gone for that particular category, it’s over. No more until next month (or whatever time period you budget for).
Logically, this method of budgeting makes a lot of sense and works for a lot of people. Actually, from what I read on the frugal blogosphere, it seems that the majority follows this method (please correct me if I am wrong!).
However, what I want to tell you today is that the cash envelope system does NOT work for me personally. It does make me feel like an oddity, but I’m fairly used to that; as if being a 5’10” female doesn’t make me stick out enough, then I have this Messianic Jewish thing going on too. So let’s just add this one to the list of my quirks!
I find that when I have cash anywhere around me, it always has this sneaky way of finding itself in someone else’s pocket very quickly. I know, I know…I need more self-control. That’s why this frugal lifestyle and couponing has done wonders for me. But, honestly, I have found that I have to do what works for me, which is not the cash envelope system.
What does work for me is using a credit card for all my purchases and then, and this is MUCHO IMPORTANT, paying it off at the end of the month. I can see how dangerous this is, but we really do pay it off EVERY month. I know all the financial statistics about how terrible and bad credit cards are, but really this is what works for my family.
Here’s the factor that makes this system work for us: accountability, which is a powerful and wonderful part of marriage. I know that when that credit card bill becomes available, my husband will see every penny that I spent. And where. And when. It’s beautiful, isn’t it? I’m not being sarcastic; I really do love it.
But the key is that this is what works for US. It might not work for you in your situation. The important thing about frugality/budgeting is that you have to know what works for you and then do it.
So my three criteria, in order of importance, for any budgeting strategy are these:
1) The Bible. Does your budget include a portion for charity/others in a way that glorifies God? To be honest, I’m not a big fan of using the word “tithing” (another quirk) because the tithe related to the temple. However, that being said, I still think that the same principle applies today that a “firstfruits” of what we have should be shared with those in need.
2) Your authority. Does your husband or parent (or whoever your authority figure is) approve? Maybe you don’t like that word authority. In our society, that word most of the time has a bad connotation. Even if you don’t like it, it’s always good to run your budget by someone that is knowledgeable in this area.
3) What works for you. No matter what everyone else is doing…you have to do what makes your particular situation work. And mine is not cash envelopes, no matter how much they make sense.

What works for you? Do you use the envelope system or something different? Leave a comment...I'd love to hear!

There’s my Frugal Friday tip for the day. See more great ideas at Biblical Womanhood.

In Review: Mudhouse Sabbath

2008-08-19T21:07:00.003-04:00

Despite my initial misgivings about this book ("Is this just going to be a treatise on why Christianity is better than Judaism?"), the more I read Mudhouse Sabbath by Lauren F. Winner the more I enjoyed it. Ms. Winner is "an Orthodox Jew who converted to Christianity", and yet finds herself longing for the traditional/Biblical heritage she left behind. In the book, she picks a few of the "highlights" of the Hebraic lifestyle (Sabbath, mezuzot, mourning, etc.) and tries to reconfigure them for her new-found faith (or is it?).
What I particularly liked about this book was that is it not only highly anecdotal, but also very informative. Even I, who has been studying Jewish/Hebraic life for over 15 years, learned a few things! For example, in all my 15 years in this "Jewish stuff", I have never (that I can recall) learned that the shin (a Hebrew letter) that is on the mezuzah can also stand for the phrase "Shomer daltot Yisrael" - Guardian of the doors of Israel.
It is interesting to see Christianity from Ms. Winner's perspective, how someone who has lived their life (or at least part of it) based on the Torah and all the traditions surrounding it can go into a very different lifestyle, and yet still keep some of who they were before. As Ms. Winner points out a few times in her book, I do believe that Christianity does have a few things (if not a lot more) to learn from traditional Judaism, especially the joy of the Sabbath. I highly recommend this delightful, quick-read to anyone of any faith. As R. Ben Zoma is often quoted, "Who is wise? One who learns from everyone."

Giveaway Winner!

2008-08-18T19:32:00.003-04:00

That's congratulations to those that don't read Hebrew yet. My hubby helped me out with our random drawing tonight and (drumroll, please)...a big MAZEL TOV to Robyn for winning the giveaway from last week! The consensus was that I leave Tavita's Purse one big hodge-podge, instead of splitting it into two blogs, and being that with work and everything I don't have a lot of extra time to devote to that project, I think I'm going to take her advice. So for now, Tavita's Purse is where you can find everything from great deals to spiritual thoughts. It's kind of an eclectic mix, but I like it for now, and apparently a few others do too!

Robyn: Send me an e-mail with your address, so I can send the book!

Again, I thank everyone for their comments and be sure to check back as I continue working on Tavita's Purse!

Shabbat Nachamu

2008-08-15T06:58:00.003-04:00

This week (tomorrow actually) we observe Shabbat Nachamu ("Sabbath of Comfort"). The name comes from Isaiah 40:1 - 26, beginning with the double entreaty to nachamu:

Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.
Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,

and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed,

that her sin has been paid for,

that she has received from the LORD's hand

double for all her sins.

Thus, we end the period of mourning and fasting dealing with the destruction of the two Temples (and many other heinous crimes committed against the Jewish people throughout history) and begin the ascent toward the High Holy Days.

This Shabbat, let us remember the people of Israel in our prayers and remind ourselves to "be watchmen on the walls." Shabbat Shalom ~ May your Sabbath be filled with peace!

A Penny for Your Thoughts...

2008-08-13T19:32:00.003-04:00

Actually, your thoughts are worth more than a penny to me! They are worth a copy of A Sacred Foundation: The Importance of Strength in the Home School Marriage by Michael Farris. That's right...you can win it by giving your comments below.

Here's the question:

Do you think I should split up my blogs into two - one about saving money and leaving everything else (Bible studies, random thoughts, stuff about Israel) on Tavita's Purse OR should I leave it the way it is now (one big hodge-podge blog!)?

Leave a comment with your opinion by SUNDAY, August 17th at midnight. I will announce the winner on Monday!

Why I Buy Things I Don't "Need"

2008-08-13T06:52:00.004-04:00

This week I noticed there was a moneymaker at CVS with the Alavert deal (between the ECB's and the printable coupon). So I decided that although I was not in "need" of some great allergy medicine at the moment, I would get it so I could get something I DID need instead, and try to grow my ECB stash as well.

So on Monday here's what I bought:

1 - Alavert (on sale for $5.99, giving $3 ECB's back)

1 - CVS Brand Tampons 80 ct. (on sale for $2.99, usually $9.49!)

1 - CVS Brand Advanced Healing Flight-Sized Lotion ($1.49)

Coupons used: $2/$10 (only available now if you SAVED a copy), $2 CVS Skin Care Coupon, and $4 off Alavert coupon.

Paid with: $2 ECB's and 47 cents OOP.

Made: $3 ECB's (from Alavert)

Head over to Keeping the Kingdom First for more on the CVS Challenge!

Today's Dose of Wisdom: Proverb 11

2008-08-11T07:13:00.004-04:00

This past weekend I went to a women's conference led by my Rebbetzin and another Rebbetzin called "Daughters of Righteousness" (Banot Tzedek). It was such a refreshing time of fellowship and refocusing our lives on what is most important. One of the things that my Rebbetzin encouraged us to do is to make it a priority to read one chapter of Proverbs a day. Now, this was not a new idea to me, as it was actually something that my husband taught me to do when we first met. But recently, I have gotten out of the habit, and I have noticed that in many situations I could have used more wisdom and discretion, both of which Proverbs is filled with!

In today's Proverb, is one that I have always thought kind of funny, but it is so true.

"Like a gold ring in the snout of a pig

is a beautiful woman who lacks good sense." Proverb 11:22 (CJB)

To me, this is saying that although outward beauty is nice to have (like a gold ring), the substance of a person is who we are in the inside. If we go around living our lives without giving thought to our ways, we might as well be compared to an animal (and not a pretty one at that!).

I am so grateful to HaShem for the G-dly women in my life who, this past weekend, spent so much time teaching us and encouraging us. Thank you! May we all be called "daughters of righteousness"!

Knight Rider and the book of Numbers

2008-08-06T07:13:00.004-04:00

Last week, we finished the book of Numbers for our yearly cycle of Torah portions. As we heard the Torah reader say the traditional "chazak, chazak, v'nitchazek!" ("Be strong, be strong, and may we be strengthened") this past Shabbat, I know there were at least a few thoughts of relief that we are now headed for the exciting book of Deuteronomy.

Sunday morning I was reflecting on all that I've learned from studying the "boring books" of the Bible. My absolute favorite Torah portion, Pinchas, is found in Numbers, and I am still awed every time I study Leviticus. But then I had another thought...I didn't always like studying the books of Moses. When I was young, Psalms and Proverbs were my favorites. What happened?

Then I started thinking about how I used to sit down and watch TV with my dad. One of the shows he regularly watched was Knight Rider. When I was young, I thought this was such a boring show. I had no idea what was going on; the only thing that excited me was when Kit, the car, would talk. The only reason I would sit and watch it was because I wanted to be with my dad.

Little did I know that one day I would marry a man that has loved Knight Rider since he was a little boy. What a surprise it was when he pulled out his collection of Knight Rider DVD's and this time, I actually didn't think the show was so boring. I finally "got it"!

And so it is with the G-d's Word. The books that are above our level are "boring" to us at the time. But one thing we have to remember is that not even a yod or a tittle is wasted in the Bible. Every little word is there for a reason. There are so many parts that still seem "boring" to me, but I know that's only because I don't understand them. There's still so much more to learn...and that's the exciting part!

If you haven't begun reading the Torah portions with us yet, now's a great time to start! This week, we begin the final book of the Torah, Deuteronomy (D'varim).

This week's portion: Deuteronomy 1:1 - 3:22

Support Israel and Get a FREE $25 Restaurant.com Gift Card!

2008-07-31T20:20:00.006-04:00

I just saw this deal advertised in the World Jewish Digest, and thought it was too good to be true until I confirmed it online. The deal is that with your first "Yes to Carrots" brand purchase on Walgreens.com (prices starting at $5.99), you will receive a FREE $25 dollar gift card for Restaurant.com!

The cool thing about Yes to Carrots is that it is an Israeli company (headquarters in Tel Aviv) and therefore, every purchase directly helps the Israeli economy.

Another great thing about this company is that all the products are labeled with the USDA Organic symbol, and contain no parabens. In other words, you can feel good about your purchase!

If you have done this deal or know more about it, please let me know. I'm always interested in supporting Israel...and going out to eat!

For more Frugal Friday ideas, see BiblicalWomanhood.

A Man

2008-07-30T07:41:00.004-04:00

A man -

Thinning hair, trying to cover a scalp burnt by the sun;

A dent where a beam at the fish house came a little too close;

Kind eyes, one blue, one hazel,

Eyes that can penetrate to the soul;

A set jaw, firm against any contrary thing;

A smile that turns up the edges of a salt and peppery beard;

Huge, calloused hands filled with lines and scars and fish scales;

A little bulge on the stomach, evidence that he "doesn't eat any sweets;"

Huge feet, the shoes of whom I loved to clop around in

But never could fill - my Dad.

Dad, they say a mother teaches her children who they are and a father teaches them what to do. You are such a G-dly example for me and the rest of the family, and we love you so much. Today we celebrate how much you mean to us. You have taught us the way to live, G-d's way to live, and that means more than words can say. I love you Daddy!

Have a wonderful birthday!

Graphic courtesy of Allposters.com.

My New Favorite Thing!

2008-07-30T07:18:00.003-04:00

This is my new favorite thing! My sister found it for me last week when she came to my house and saw that I had about 2 pounds of loose (wonderfully delicious) tea from More Than Alive. The Tovolo tea infuser is awesome for tea connoisseurs like me, because not only is it functional with it's drip-catching holder, but really fun too! I love tea and now I love it even more because of my Tovolo tea infuser. Thanks sis...You're the best!

Check out Fiddledeedee for more Favorite Things!

Interview with Derek Leman, Author of Feast

2008-07-27T21:03:00.009-04:00

After having the opportunity to read this awesome new resource for anyone trying to learn about the feasts found in Leviticus 23, I was given the chance to ask the author, Derek Leman, some questions regarding this new Bible study. I should mention that although I went through the resources contained in the leader's kit individually, Feast looks like it would be so enriching and fun to go through with a group! Following is the interview....

What made you decide to write Feast?
I have been sharing Passover and the Fall Feasts of Israel in churches for years. I have always enjoyed the chance to share with Christians how the Old Testament and Jewish roots of faith in Jesus deepen our lives. Along the way, I had a chance here or there to write something for a Christian publication. A few editors out there thought of me as a go-to guy on Jewish roots. So one day I got a wonderful call from LifeWay, asking if I'd like to write a small group study for Threads, a division that publishes for 20's and 30's. I tried not to act like I'd just won a sweepstakes and accepted the assignment. Working with a big, professional publisher has been a joy.

I really like that you included your family's personal experiences with celebrating the festivals. How did your family begin celebrating the "feasts of the LORD"?
I was a new follower of Yeshua when I met my wife and was going to Bible college in Chicago. I did not yet fully understand the feasts and the Torah, but I was drawn to things like Passover and lighting candles on Friday night. Coming to Yeshua brought me to the Jewishness of Yeshua. Before I read the Bible, I actually thought Jesus was Catholic. Discovering his Jewishness by reading the New Testament filled me with questions. I met some Messianic Jews and started getting answers. My wife grew into them while dating me and they were part of our marriage from the beginning. Eighteen years and eight kids later, they are here to stay.

How do you think the various audio/visual materials enhance the study?
Many people have never seen a Sabbath meal. They have dozens of questions about Jewish traditions and what they would look like for their family. The video sessions show me and my wife with one Messianic Jewish couple and one Christian couple. The Christian couple asks us questions in an intimate setting about what these traditions mean to us and for our families. I think a lot of people would get a first glimpse at what the feasts could bring into their home.

Some Christians may feel apprehensive about studying something they have never experienced themselves. How would you respond to someone who thought that he/she doesn't know enough to go through the Feast study?
This book is for beginners and yet has insights for the initiated also. Beginners will find everything explained and no knowledge of Jewish customs assumed. Those who already know a good deal about the feasts will find interpretations, suggested applications, and personal notes that will enhance their celebrations.

What is your vision for how God may use Feast?
I think that numerous Christian families and small groups in churches can add the richness of physical celebration to their worship. I know that already in places all over people have used Feast to host dinners. I imagine teachers will use ideas in their teaching to better explain biblical passages. The beauty of Jewish roots and holistic worship is that they are God's ideas and not man's.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
Passover, Firstfruits, and Weeks celebrate the death, resurrection of our Messiah and his imparting the Holy Spirit to us. Rosh HaShanah, Yom Kippur, and Tabernacles celebrate the return of Jesus, the coming judgment of God, and the World to Come where we will dwell with God. The themes and truths of the Jewish holidays follow God's complete plan for this world. They are the root from which Christianity sprang and the historical reasons the church had for leaving them behind were unsound. I hope a lot of people will come and discover the joy of God's calendar.

And there you have it folks! As I've stated on here before, I am very excited about this new study and hope that you will check it out at Threads, a division of LifeWay. (And knowing my readers, you will appreciate that you can download a free sample of Feast at the Threads website).

*Thank you to Threads and to Derek for this new resource and for giving us an interview here on Tavita's Purse!

Frugal Friday: Do unto Others...

2008-07-25T07:45:00.003-04:00

This week for Frugal Friday, I'd like to remember an important principle. Sometimes some of us in the frugal mindset can have a "hoarding" mentality...not all, but some...sometimes. Whenever I find myself in this mood, I have to go back to the words of my favorite Rabbi..."Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

This concept, also called middah k'neged middah (measure for measure) in Hebrew, is one that just makes sense and I've yet to find someone who disagrees with its profound truth. However, no matter how true it is that "what goes around comes around," sometimes I see myself acting just plain greedy. That's why it's important to remember that the purpose of a frugal lifestyle is NOT to amass more for myself - but so that I free up more of my resources to "love G-d with all my heart, soul and mind" and to "love my neighbor as myself."

In our individualistic society, it's easy to forget about the needs of others. The good news is that with our frugal lifestyles we can find more creative ways to help those in need, while making sure that our families are taken care of as well. I've read stories of women who have baked apple pies for the their cashiers at CVS and I've seen my CVSing friends at work give boxes of toiletries to foundations that help. It's inspiring, and I know it will come back on these ladies. Little acts of kindness come back in big ways.

For more Frugal Friday ideas, head back to Biblical Womanhood.

Graphic courtesy of Allposters.com.

Book Review: Rashi's Daughters, Book 1: Joheved

2008-07-24T21:33:00.003-04:00

Recently, I read a semi-historical novel based on Talmudic lore about Rashi (Rabbi Solomon ben Issac) and his three daughters. Because this book includes some of my favorite subjects - Judaism and history - I was immediately drawn into the masterfully woven story surrounding Rashi's family. Of course, as a novel, not every part of the story is a fact. However, I was surprised at how much I really did learn about Rashi's (and his daughters) life and about the Talmudic literature that so gracefully weaves itself throughout the pages of this story. Joheved is someone I can imagine myself being friends with - she's caring, a leader, not one to be in the "popular crowd", but also is very brave. You see, Rashi decided to teach his daughters Talmud, which was a huge faux pas in his day and age. Being the oldest daughter, Joheved blazed a trail for the rest of her sisters as she studied Talmud with her father, much to her mother's chagrin. This book is filled with strong female characters, not only Joheved, but her grandmother, Leah, Rashi's mother who in real-life wrote letters to the government in Troyes, France concerning her vineyard. Yes, Rashi's family REALLY were vinters...that's why we have Rashi wine! (My husband and I love it so much that this is actually what we served at our wedding!)

Back to the story, I was not in love with all of the book, however. Unfortunately, the book does become a little too graphic for my taste as Joheved gets married to a young, shy Talmudic scholar named Meir. Meir is a likeable character, and even kind of charming at times. I just didn't need to know the intimate details of their wedding night and struggles to conceive children (which they become quite good at later on!).

Issues aside, I am glad that I read this book and I can say I recommend it, but just watch out for the graphic parts. I also would like to tell you that I am reading the second book now, which focuses on Rashi's second daughter, Miriam. Honestly, I have almost jumped ship on this second book at least a dozen times. I don't want to give too much away, but I will say that Book 2 has been a major disappointment after seeing what Maggie Anton has to offer from reading Book 1. I will finish it, not because I really need to, but rather that's how I am with my reading fetish. I just HAVE to finish a book that I begin. I can't wait to see what Book 3, which I'm assuming will be called Rachel, after Rashi's third daughter.

Free Vivanno drink at Starbucks (July 25 and 26)

2008-07-24T10:05:00.002-04:00

Yet another reason to always register your Starbucks gift cards at Starbucks Rewards. Enjoy!

CVS: Physcian's Formula Organic Wear Moneymaker!

2008-07-22T13:25:00.002-04:00

In the absence of good deals lately, I haven't been going to CVS quite as often as usual...about once a week is what I've been averaging lately. Well, I'm happy to say that I found a moneymaker this week, and I'd love to share! I had found $6 off coupons for Physcian's Formula on a tearpad at CVS months and months ago, and was saving them for such an occasion!

Buy 2 Physician's Formula Organic Wear Makeup (The cheapest I could find was the concealer for $7.99)

Use $3/$15 (if your CVS is taking expired coupons)

Use 2 $6 off Physician's Formula (found on tearpad at CVS) coupons

Pay $0.98

Receive 5 ECB's!

This worked for me today, and I hope it works for others!

Marriage Must Read!

2008-07-16T13:50:00.007-04:00

Crystal has written another wonderful "Lovin' that Man of Mine" post today, and I thought I'd share in case you missed it!

Actually, what she writes about applies not only to husbands and wives, but to anyone in any form of relationship. Overall, a must read! Check it out...

Graphic courtesy of Allposters.com.

Turn every meal into an act of worship!

2008-07-10T23:03:00.003-04:00

Ever wanted more spiritually out of your family meals?

Ever wondered what the first believers' times of "breaking bread" looked like?

Well, now there is a whole series of resources that just came out called

"Breaking Bread"

Rarely do I recommend something before I have even tried it, but I have to say, that I just ordered 6 copies of the Deluxe Table Edition for our home and I am so excited. Check it out!

What a great resource to have for your home, especially for joyful Shabbat dinners with friends and family!

Another great idea from our friends at First Fruits of Zion...

Frugal Friday Recipe: A New Twist on an Old Favorite!

2008-07-10T20:48:00.003-04:00

This week I was looking for a new recipe, as I am getting a little burned out of my usual weekly repertoire. I had heard someone mention the following recipe before and it sounded good, so I looked it up and made my own version of Turkey Sweet-Potato Shepherd's Pie (this is Rachael Ray's version). It's very simple to make, and can be really inexpensive as well...not to mention totally delicious! I had to force myself to STOP eating it at dinner tonight. Another added bonus...it can be made ahead of time and then frozen and reheated.

Jenny M's Turkey Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie

Ingredients:

4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into pieces

1 lb Ground Turkey (By the way, my Publix has Empire Kosher Ground Turkey for $2.89/lb!)

1 large onion, chopped

10 baby cut carrots, sliced into "coins"

3 celery sticks, chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 tablespoons butter (or Pareve alternative, if needed)

2 tablespoons flour

1 package onion soup mix

1 cup water

1 cup of frozen mixed veggies

1 ripe banana, sliced

1 teaspoon cinnamon

Few dashes hot pepper sauce

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

Italian seasoning, few sprinkles

Preheated oven to 400 degrees

Large glass (or disposable - even better!) lasagna pan

Directions:

1. Put sweet potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender. Drain and put potatoes back into the warm pot.

2. In a deep skillet, heat the olive oil on high heat. Add the turkey while breaking up with spoon. Once it is browned, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Season with salt and pepper, or add whatever you like!

3. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat while whisking in flour for 1 minute. Then whisk in the onion soup mix and SLOWLY add the water, and season with a little pepper. Whisk until it thickens, and then add to the turkey mixture. Stir in the frozen veggies and turn heat to low.

4. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter to the sweet potato pot and melt over low heat. Add the banana, sprinkle of salt, sprinkle of cinnamon and a few dashes of the hot sauce and mash until well combined.

5. Spoon the turkey mixture into the pan and then put the sweet potatoes on top. It helps to put the sweet potatoes on a dollop at a time, and then smooth the whole thing over the top. Sprinkle a little Italian seasoning on top and bake until a little crust is formed, about 10 or 15 minutes.

6. Enjoy!

Check out the rest of Frugal Friday at Biblical Womanhood!

No, the picture is not mine, but is courtesy of Ontario Turkey. For some reason my digital camera is not wanting to upload tonight!

Free Gas Cards from Publix!

2008-07-08T12:35:00.006-04:00

No sooner have we just sent off for our last Publix promotion than we have another one! Don't you just love it?

Here's the deal:

1) Spend $50 (can be more than one transaction) at Publix between now and 7/27/08.

2) Included in that $50 must be 4 of certain Kraft foods. (See offer form)

3) Send receipt(s) with Kraft products circled and offer form to the address on the offer form by 8/8/08 and receive a $10 ExxonMobil Cash Card!

4) This is a limit of 3 cards per person, so if you spend at least $150 between now and 7/27/08, then you could get $30 back for gas!

Not a bad deal, huh?

Maybe we can even use some of these $3/1 Planters coupons for this deal??? And don't forget, Planter's peanuts are on BOGO this week (until Thursday at my store, Wednesday outside of Florida).

I have to give credit to Sarah at Fiddledeedee for telling us about this on her blog. By the way, she ALWAYS has all the Publix deals on her blog, so be sure to check it out!

Shabbat and Fireworks

2008-07-04T08:00:00.002-04:00

This year is the first that I can remember a 4th of July coinciding with Shabbat (I'm sure it's happened...I just can't remember!). Of course, that poses a problem for Shabbat-keeping families. What's more important - G-d's holy Sabbath or America's birthday? I read a great post about this at First Fruits of Zion.

Have a happy and safe Fourth of July and Shabbat Shalom!

Watchmen Wednesday: Pray for Gilad Shalit!

2008-07-02T06:18:00.003-04:00

On June 25, 2006, a 19 year old Israeli soldier was captured by Hamas and is currently still held captive. Today is the second anniversary of his abduction according to the Hebrew calendar (29 Sivan), and people all over the world are banding together to pray for his release. Hamas says that Gilad is alive and well, but this is still a war crime according to international humanitarian law.

Will you join with me and thousands of other "watchmen" as we pray for Gilad's release? According to Aish.com, we are praying Psalm 121 at certain times, depending on your time zone. On the East coast in the US, we are to pray at 11 am; the West coast is then 8 am this morning.

Thank you for joining with your brothers and sisters around the globe that care about Israel!

Frugal Friday Tip: No Secrets!

2008-06-26T19:34:00.010-04:00

One day this week I was in an elevator with two other women who obviously knew each other. One of the women was excitedly telling her friend the following:

"I have my children trained. Now, when we pull up to our house, the kids check to see if Daddy is home. If he's there, we leave most of our shopping in the car and only bring in the essentials. If my husband is gone, the kids quickly bring in all the shopping, and we put it away as fast as possible so that he doesn't see it!"

As they laughed this little story off, I thought about how damaging this scenario is to this family. Mom feels that she can't share her shopping with her husband, and the children learn to hide things from their father. At some point, I'm sure Dad will see that he cannot trust Mom so much with financial issues. It's a vicious cycle.

However, I believe it may be more common than we'd like to admit. I know women that leave their shopping bags in the trunk of their car until the house is empty, as well as have secret credit cards and bank accounts. Now, I am not on a high horse about this. I, too, am guilty. When we first got married, I had a credit card to a certain lingerie store that I didn't bother telling my husband about. I didn't use it a lot, but when I did use it, I made sure to go to the store and pay the bill with cash so he would never know. I did this for about 3 months, when I began feeling very convicted about this. Not only was I essentially lying to my beloved husband, but I know that God was not pleased about what I was doing.

I thought, "If I do this about something "little" now, what will I lie or hide from him later?" This was NOT a good way to start off our marriage. So the very next day, I called up the company and canceled the account and cut up the card. Let me tell you - it felt so good!

Some couples deal with this issue by including some "discretionary spending money" in their weekly or monthly budget. Each spouse gets a certain dollar amount to spend without having to tell the other spouse what they spent it on. We don't do this in our household, but I'm sure it works great for other people. I'd be interested to hear if any of you do this or have ideas!

How does this apply to Frugal Friday? Well, if you are thinking about buying something that you are ashamed to tell your spouse about, you probably should not be buying it in the first place. This will not only be good for our bank accounts, but, even more importantly, strengthening to our marriages! I can't tell you how good it feels that I don't have to worry about hiding anything!

This is a great way to not only be frugal, but also to "build up our homes", as the Bible says:

The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.

Proverbs 14:1

Go to Biblical Womanhood for more great Frugal Friday ideas!

Graphic courtesy of AllPosters.com.

Positive Posts on our Pain at the Pump

2008-06-24T17:26:00.002-04:00

It seems everyone is talking about it, as it has affected almost every American - young, old, rich, poor, etc. I've heard the usual rants, worries, strategies for dealing with this situation. However, in the past week, I have come across two very refreshing posts on this topic that I'd like to share. These ladies greatly blessed me with their outlooks, and I hope that you are blessed as well!

"I remember when gasoline cost only..."

In celebration of $4/gallon gas

Enjoy, and let me know what you think!

Graphic courtesy of Allposters.com.

And the recipe for Chocolate Soup with Chocolate "Croutons"...

2008-06-22T07:04:00.003-04:00

Much to everyone's great enjoyment, Beth has sent the me the link to her now-famous recipe. It actually was a recipe that she saw on the TLC show "Take Home Chef."

Let me know how it goes! Happy cooking!

Parasha Shlach Lecha "Send for Yourself"

2008-06-20T13:30:00.006-04:00

This week's portion is Shlach Lecha, Numbers 13:1-15:41, in which we read the story of the spies whom Moses sent out to get a good looksie at the Promised Land. My first question is, "Why would they need to spy it out?" God told them to go, so why not just go?

Honestly, I think it was a test. God gives them to us all the time. We all have had instances in our lives, situations that we have been given promises or hopes of a "personal promised land," and yet when it comes to actually getting there, we hesitate. We want to "search it out first" or "wait on the Lord." Don't get me wrong, it's not good to rush into anything. But it's when we know something is from the Lord, and we turn back or get scared that we fall into "wandering in the wilderness" just like the children of Israel.

Last night I was listening to a song from the new Bible Study resource pack I mentioned on here a few days ago, Feast. On it was a song by Sara Groves, and the lyrics tell perfectly not only what is going on in the portion, but in my own life as well. It's been a trying time, and I have been "Painting Pictures of Egypt" just like the song says. Here are some of the lyrics to this beautiful song:

I’ve been painting pictures of Egypt Leaving out what it lacked

The future seems so hard And I want to go back

But the places that used to fit me Cannot hold the things I've learned

And those roads closed off to me While my back was turned

It's true. We all do it. The future looks scary, and the past is comfortable. We begin to reminisce and think, "If only I were still (fill in the blank - young, skinny, had taken this major in college, etc...)" Last night as I listened to this song, I realized that God was whispering, "Please just trust in MY plan for you. You don't have to worry and wish for the past or your comfort zone. I have had all your days planned for you from before you were even born!"

I feel so loved. I know He does have the Promised Land, a land flowing with milk and honey, in store for each one of us. We simply need to rest and let HIM show us the way!

Shabbat Shalom!

Cartoons appearing in this post are Copyright Gospel Communications International, Inc - http://www.reverendfun.com/

Our Family's Frugal Summer Fun!

2008-06-20T06:22:00.013-04:00

My family loves to play Mexican train!

This year for Father's Day, instead doing the usual restaurant thing, we decided to make our own version of a nice luncheon for our dear Dad. The meal was so colorful (and tasty too!) that I wanted to share it with you!

Here's the presents sitting on the table beside the flowers from Shabbat dinner. Every Friday night, it's traditional that either the husband or a guest bring fresh flowers to a home for the special Sabbath meal. Our lovely guests brought these on Friday evening...

And now for the meal! WARNING: These pictures may cause your mouth to water! Here are the beef and chicken skewers before they were grilled. My sister and I had so much fun assembling them. We put the meat, cherry tomatoes, green pepper, red pepper, red onion, and pineapple chunks. Grilled pineapple is the best! After assembling them, we let them marinate in teriyaki sauce and minced garlic for about 30 minutes before grilling.

Here's the skewers on the grill....
And here's the yummy finished product:
Here's the table. We also had Mom's special yellow rice with mixed veggies and my hubby's famous fried plaintains! I love when they're hot and fresh, with a little kosher salt sprinkled on top...yummmmm!
And for dessert....WOW!

Beth made erupting chocolate souffles with chocolate soup, served with vanilla ice cream dusted with dark chocolate shavings! Beth is the gourmet of the family! Maybe I'll get her to share her recipe with us on Tavita's Purse...

I hope you enjoyed these yummy pictures! Between Publix sales and coupons, this meal cost us much less than what eating out would have cost us, and we had so much fun cooking together. It really was a blessed day!

Head on over to Biblical Womanhood for more great Frugal Friday ideas!

Shabbat Shalom!

Attenion Publix Shoppers!

2008-06-17T13:28:00.004-04:00

Yay! I finally found these booklets to get the $25 Home Depot gift card!

If you haven't heard about it yet, check out this post on Fiddledeedee.

I just got my new Publix ad for the sale 6/19-6/25 and Hebrew National Hot Dogs are on BOGO this week (in Florida), which are one of the products that count for this deal! Yay!

Good things are coming...

2008-06-17T07:19:00.004-04:00

Hello my gracious friends....I want to say a sincere "I'm sorry" for being a little out of the loop lately. I have been doing a lot of thinking, praying, spending time with my family, but I wanted to let you know that good things are coming on Tavita's Purse! Here's a few posts that are on their way:

1) A review and interview with the author of the above-pictured Bible Study, Feast by Derek Lehman. I am just received this in the mail yesterday, and am already really excited about this resource distributed by LifeWay. It looks so good, and I am so ready to delve into this!

2) Frugal Father's Day Feast pictures! My sister, my mom, my hubby and I spent a good part of Sunday making a really nice (and beautiful) meal for our beloved patriarch! As soon as my sister sends me the pictures, I'll share them with you (hint, hint Beth!).

3) My Weight-Loss Progress...Yeah, it's a little embarrassing, but I know if I share my progress on here I will be more motivated. My goal is to lose 15 pounds...frugally, of course! I'll let you know how it goes! I've never had to lose this much weight, so if you have any suggestions please let me know. At first I was a little discouraged that I had done this to myself and that I might not be able to do it, but then this verse from Zechariah came to my mind, "Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD." I know that "I can do ALL things through Messiah who strengthens me!"

So these are a little of what is to come, so please don't stop checking back! I'm not sure if I'll be CVSing this week, but if you want to see the deals head on over to The "Cent"sible Sawyer.
Be blessed...

I also need your input!
Let me know what you like, what you don't like, or what you would like to see more of on Tavita's Purse...Thanks!

Frugal Friday: Giving Thanks

2008-06-12T20:15:00.010-04:00

Today I was reflecting on a somewhat odd idea. Who invented scissors? I mean, seriously. Who knows the answer to that? In my seventeen years of formal education, I did not once, that I can remember, learn the name of the person who invented scissors.

Yes, Christopher Columbus sailed the ocean blue, George Washington led our brand-new country, and Dr. Martin Luther King fought for freedom for all. But who invented scissors???? You may wonder why this weird question is on my mind, and why I even care. Well, think for a minute about how many times a week you use scissors, especially if you are a coupon junkie like me! Every time you have a thread hanging on your skirt, get a hair cut, need to open a stubborn package...the list goes on and on! Most of us probably use scissors at least once a day, yet how many of us stop to think of the person who gave us this awesome invention?

There is an idea taught in Judaism that we should bless God for everything. There is a blessing for wearing new clothes, a blessing for seeing a rainbow, a blessing for a taste of the new season's first fruit, a blessing for the new month, a blessing upon awaking, a blessing before eating, a blessing after eating and even a blessing said after using the restroom! Imagine! But think about how our lives would be different if we didn't experience those things? There's even a prayer that says, "Thank You, God, for inspiring us to thank you..."

How does this relate to being frugal? Well, honestly, this is something that I have had the learn the hard way. God has been showing me that when I don't have a thankful heart, I tend to worry and complain and focus on what I don't have rather than the bounty that is sitting right in front of me. Then I end up spending even more money on things I don't really need because of my heart.

When I find that I am getting into this unthankful mode once again, I pray for God to fill my heart with thankfulness. After praying, I MAKE myself give thanks, even when I don't feel like it. Try smiling when you are really mad or sad...it's crazy how it can change your insides! We don't always encounter grateful people in our daily lives, but try saying "Thank you" even when you don't feel like it. Many times, a heart of thankfulness will follow. My mom used to always say, "I'm going to CHOOSE to be happy." It's true, the attitudes of our heart is a choice that we alone can make.

Those of you who know me personally know that my husband is working very diligently on remodeling our bathroom. I have complained (if not out loud, inside I sure have!) about how inconvenienced I have been with all the dust flying all over everything having to share a bathroom. I know, I know...I feel awful that I felt that way, especially when I heard my husband's prayer this evening at our dinner table. He praised God in this midst of all of this for our beautiful home and for providing us with a cozy place of our own. As he said those words, my heart overflowed with adoration for our Heavenly Father, as well as for the man of God to whom I am married.

There is a poem that has circulated in e-mails, author unknown, but is so true and I think of this whenever my mind starts wandering toward the ungrateful:

"Thank you God, for all I have to do today.

Thanks God, for this sink of dirty dishes,

It shows we have plenty to eat.

Thanks God, for this pile of dirty, stinky, laundry,

It shows we have plenty of clothes to wear..."

Head over to Biblical Womanhood for more great Frugal Friday ideas!

Shabbat Shalom!

P.S. I still DON'T know who invented scissors, but I thank God for creating the person and giving him or her the intelligence to do so!

Thanks to FlyingFingers.com for the lovely picture!

CVS: Cheap Cereal this week!

2008-06-11T13:03:00.003-04:00

I just bought 6 boxes of General Mills cereal for $3.13 at CVS (plus two other items)!

Here's how I did it:

The deal for cereal this week is "Buy $20 worth of certain General Mills products, get $10 Extra Bucks back."

Transaction 1:
5 Boxes of Assorted GM Cereals at $3.33 each
Used $1 off any 3 from this week's Red Plum insert, and then a $3/$15.
Used $10 Extra Bucks (from last week), and paid $2.67 out of pocket (OOP).

Transaction 2:
1 Nivea Extreme Comfort Shave Gel $3.99
1 Nivea Extreme Comfort Post Shaving Balm $7.99
1 Box of Nature's Valley Granola Bars (included in GM deal) $3.33
Used $1 off Shave Gel, $4/2 Nivea products, $3/$15.
Used $6.99 Extra Bucks (from last week) and paid 46 cents OOP!

All in all, it was a pretty good deal. Don't forget it's Father's Day this Sunday, so maybe some Nivea would be good to buy!

Head on over to The "Cent"sible Sawyer for more great CVS deals this week!

$1 makeup from e.l.f. or at Nordstrom's!

2008-06-11T11:18:00.005-04:00

Just thought I'd pass along the good deal:
Nordstrom is changing the logo on their makeup, so they're selling everything that says "e.l.f." for $1!!!
(You still may have to pay shipping, but it's SO worth it!!)
If you use the coupon code below, and your order is less than $15, that basically pays for the shipping!

e.l.f. Website

**Also, use coupon code: CAROLINA to get $7.50 off your first purchase off $15***
Enjoy!

[Edit: Per Snopes.com, Nordstrom is NOT changing the logo on their makeup, and the makeup on this website is ALWAYS $1 each. Sorry! Lesson learned: always check these things out before posting them!]

Congratulations Are In Order!

2008-06-11T09:49:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to Monica for winning this book for our Shavuot Giveaway! Thank you to the other entries as well...I wish I could give everyone something! I think giveaways are very fun, so look for more of them on here. I love sharing the richness and deepness of God's Word with others, as we encourage each other as "iron sharpens iron."

The above-mentioned book is a great one, that teaches what the Bible means when it says to "write them [God's Words] on the doorposts of your houses and upon your gates." (see Deuteronomy 6:4-9) I remember when I was young, my father put a big, framed placard containing these verses right beside our front door. He promised my sister and I that if we learned the entire thing and could recite it to him, we would receive a prize. We studied very hard, and by the end of the week we both recited it to him. What a great memory...and I still know these verses by heart!

As I just reached my quarter of a century birthday, I see that more and more the verses I learned as a child drift into my mind at precisely the right moment. It shows me that not only is Shabbat School (or Sunday School) majorly important in the lives of our children, but more importantly, what is taught in the home. I'm not a parent yet, but at this stage in my life I can't believe how much my Biblical upbringing still surfaces in my life each and every day. I am so thankful to my parents that they made God the center of our home, and that worship wasn't something simply reserved for one day a week but every single day. No one has a perfect life, so for those of you who did not have such a childhood, do not feel bad. God gives us all different trials and tests, and makes each life beautiful with whatever we are given. We only are resposible for what He gives us. Sometimes I used to feel embarrased that I didn't have this "great" testimony, such as I was a "drug-addicted prostitute" and then I came to God. However, recently God has shown me that we all have a story and that story is beautiful and precious to Him. So today, I simply want to thank God for my story, and YOUR story too, because it's all of our stories combined that portrays the vast array of God's grace in our lives.

Shavu'ot (Pentecost) starts Sunday night!

2008-06-06T13:19:00.004-04:00

So we've been counting the days from Passover to God's feast of Shavu'ot (also called Pentecost). Like all of the Biblical holy days, this feast can be found in Leviticus 23, as well as Acts 2. I am super, super busy this week, but I wanted to a least give my readers some links to learn about this awesomely spiritual, as well as fun festival.

Here are some links to learn more about how to celebrate:
Prepare Yourself for Shavuot
Shavu'ot by First Fruits of Zion
Feast of Weeks by Biblical Holidays.com
The Fulfillment of the Covenant by Hebrew4Christians.com

Also, here's a little giveaway: If you leave a comment by midnight (EST) Tuesday, June 10th on this post with your name and either your blog link or an e-mail address PLUS one fact that you learned about Shavu'ot that you did not previously know, I'll randomly select a winner to send a free copy of one of my favorite First Fruits of Zion books! Comment away!

Image available from Flickr.

I'm back in the [CVS] Game!

2008-06-04T07:12:00.005-04:00

After taking a brief respite from playing the CVS game, I am happy to say, "Jenny's back in the game!" The above picture contains everything I got yesterday, except for the Chex mix that I ate already...hehe. (Sorry the picture is kind of crooked, I took it when I was half asleep!)

Here's the breakdown:

Transaction 1:

2 - Listerine Smart Rinse at $3.49 each

3 - CVS Brand Bandages (40 ct.) at $1.99 each

1 - CVS Brand Cotton Swabs (500 ct.) at $3.19

2 - Gold Emblem (CVS Brand) Candy at 99 cents each

1 - Chex Mix at $1

Coupons used: $3/$15, $3/$10 CVS Brand, $1 off Listerine, $1 off Chex Mix, $1 off two bags of CVS Brand candy (printed at card scanner), and $10 ECB's.

OOP: 12 Cents!

ECB's earned: $15 (so I "made" $5!)

Transaction 2:

2 - Dawn Dish Soap at $1 each

1 - Charmin Ultrastrong at $4.99

1 - Listerine Smart Rinse at $3.49

1 - Oral-B toothbrush (2 pk.) at $6.99

1 - Brut Deodorant at $2.69

Coupons used: $3/$15, $1 off Listerine, and $15 in ECB's.

*There are coupons on the Dawn, Charmin and Brut but I forgot them!

OOP: $1.33 (Didn't do as well this time.)

ECB's Earned: $14.48

Total OOP for everything in the picture (plus Chex Mix): $1.45!

Stay tuned...this is going to be a multi-trip week!

Coupons via The "Cent"sible Sawyer and Money Saving Mom.

Check out CVS Superstars at The "Cent"sible Sawyer for more fun savings!

Frugal Friday: Saving $$$ on Travel

2008-05-29T13:24:00.010-04:00

1. Check your credit cards or other clubs to see if you have any "travel points" that can be redeemed.

My husband found that we had a good amount of travel points on one of our cards that could be redeemed for about a two night stay. That was good news to help offset the cost of the trip. Now...where to stay???

2. Search online for the best rates, and to narrow down your choices.

I began by searching the major travel sites: Hotels.com, Expedia, Orbitz and Travelocity. One thing that I immediately noticed was that all of these sites had basically the same rates for the same hotels (Hotels.com was slightly better on a few). I also noticed that Hotels.com and Expedia are affiliated, so not only were they giving the same prices but they also had the same promotion, which brings me to my third tip.

3. Look for current deals and promotions that may apply to your stay.

The current promotion on Hotels.com and Expedia is this: Book 3 nights at any hotel, and receive a $50 gift card back in the mail. Use coupon code GAS50 when you are booking (the promotion is automatic on Expedia). Knowing the cost of gas these days, this helped to decide that we really could stay that extra night as we were hoping!

4. Be mindful of the day of the week you book your travel plans.

On Tuesday, the prices were moderate...not too exciting, but not too pricey either. On Wednesday morning, I was shocked to see that many of the hotels I had been watching were around 40% less than what they were the day before. I'm very glad that we ended up booking on Wednesday night because on Thursday morning, the very same hotel (similar room) we had booked was $13 more per night! This tip saved us $39 alone! [Edit: I checked again on Friday morning and the price has gone up another $5 per night on that particular hotel, similar room!]

5. Call the hotel to see if they can give you a better rate.

This didn't work in our case, but I have heard that many times if you ask nicely and tell the reservationist the price you are getting online you can sometimes get an even more discounted price.

6. Make sure to read the site's cancellation/change policy, as well as the individual hotel's policy.

Since the promotion and rates were identical on both Expedia and Hotels.com, we could have booked on either site. However, I noticed that Hotels.com does not charge for cancellations or changes but I did not see that same information on Expedia. Also, Hotels.com has a Price Match Guarantee that if you find the same hotel room online at a better rate than what you booked on their site prior to your stay, they will match the price.

7. Confirm that the hotel has the amenities you want BEFORE you book.

Even if you pay a low rate, it's not a great deal unless you get what you really wanted!

Although I'm far from an expert on frugal travel, a little bit of research went a long way. If you have any ideas you have for this or experiences to share, please do in the comment section. I'd love to hear!

Head back to Biblical Womanhood for more great Frugal Friday tips!

Thanks to Allposters.com for the graphic.

FREE Organic Coupon Booklets and Printables!

2008-05-28T16:48:00.003-04:00

When my dear husband was at Whole Foods yesterday, he snagged me one of the Mambo Sprouts booklets. I used to pick them up frequently there, as I used to work right next to Whole Foods. However, I was so happy to see that if you go to their website, you can request that they mail you the booklets (if you live in certain regions) or you can print the coupons right from the site. Enjoy!

Publix BOGO Deals 5/29 - 6/4

2008-05-28T16:21:00.003-04:00

Thomas' English Muffins - The Original, Plain, 12-oz. pkg. (Save up to $2.99)

Welch's Naturals Juice Drinks - Assorted Varieties, 6-pk. 10-oz bot. (Save up to $3.49)

Del Monte Fresh Cut Canned Vegetables - Assorted Varieties. (Save up to $1.15)

La Famiglia DelGrosso Pasta Sauce - 26 oz. jar (Save up to $7.99)

Old El Paso Dinner Kit - Assorted Varieties (Save up to $2.73)

Ken's Steak House Marinade - 16 oz. bottle (Save up to $2.79)

Pompeian Olive Oil - Extra Virgin, 16 oz. bottle (Save up to $6.99)

Post Cereal - Pebbles 13 oz., Honey Bunches of Oats 13 oz. - 18 oz., or Honey-Comb 13.5 oz. or 14.5 oz. box (Save up to $3.89)

Quaker Cereal - Cap'n Crunch 20.7 oz. - 22 oz. box, Life 21 oz. box, or Squares 16 oz. box (Save up to $4.75)

Pillsbury Moist Supreme Cake Mix - Assorted (Save up to $1.69)

Mueller's Pasta - Assorted (Save up to $1.49)

Yoo-hoo Chocolate Drink - 12-pk 11 oz. cans (Save up to $5.79)

Orville Redenbacher's Popping Corn - Gourmet Assorted Varieties (Save up to $2.77)

Blue Diamond Almonds - Assorted 6 oz. cans (Save up to $3.19)

Nabisco Honey Maid Grahams - Assorted 9 to 16 oz. boxes (Save up to $4.23)

Hershey's Cookies - Assorted 9 oz. pkg. (Save up to $3.00)

Hershey's Miniatures Candy Bars - Assorted 11 oz. or 12 oz. bags (Save up to $3.39)

Keebler Town House or Club Crackers - Assorted 9 oz. or 16 oz. boxes (Save up to $3.79)

Kellogg's Eggo Waffles - Assorted 9.9 to 12.6 oz. boxes (Surprisingly low price)

Nestle Toll House Refrigerated Cookie Dough - 16 or 16.5 oz. pkg. (Save up to $3.45)

Simply Potatoes Mashed Potatoes - Assorted 24 oz. pkg. (Save up to $2.75)

Purina ONE Cat Food - Assorted 3.3 or 3.5 lb. bags (Save up to $7.37)

Fantastik Cleaner - Assorted 26 oz. or 32 oz. bottles (Save up to $2.93)

Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Cereal Bars - Assorted 6.7 or 10.4 oz. boxes (Save up to $3.79)

Bumble Bee Prime Tuna Fillet - 4 pk. 6 oz. can (Save up to $6.99)

These are the Buy One, Get One deals for the coming week at Publix. Anyone found any coupon match-ups yet? I can think of a few off the top of my head, but I need to find out which inserts they were in. Feel free to leave a comment with your ideas!

CVS Memorial Day Fun!

2008-05-26T13:46:00.003-04:00

You can pretty much see what I bought in the picture:

Kotex - $0.99

3 Revlon Nail Polishes - $3.99 each

Cottenelle 12 pack (Double Rolls) - $5.49

2 Sobe Life Waters - $1 each

Coupons used:

$0.75 off Cottenelle (blinkie found at Publix)

$1 off Kotex, found on MSM, but can't find the link now.

BOGO coupon - Life Water, print it here (Thanks MSM!)

$3/$15 CVS Coupon

$14 ECB's

Out of pocket spent: $0.93

ECB's made: $10 ($9 for the Revlon, $1 for the Life Water)

*Note: the Revlon Nail Enamel deal is good only until the end of today (Monday). Hurry in and get ready for a new summer pedicure!

Head on back to Money Saving Mom and The "Cents"ible Sawyer for other CVS Scenarios!

Publix BOGO Sale!

2008-05-26T13:29:00.004-04:00

Today I shopped the Publix BOGO Sale and did very well, in my humble opinion!

Here's what I bought:

BOGO items first -

Electrasol Dishwasher Detergents (2 for $4.19)
Glad Lock Storage Bags, 1 quart sized and 1 gallon sized (2 for $3.19, plus had $1 off coupon from Summertime Savings magazine found at Publix)
Gatorades (my hubby needs this after basketball - 2 for $2.50)
Lipton Rice Packs (2 for $1.59, plus had $0.75 off coupon)
1 lb. packs of Baby Cut Carrots (2 for $1.69)
4 cans Bush's Vegetarian Baked Beans (2 for $1.87)
Kraft Barbeque Sauces (2 for $1.19)
Kraft Salad Dressings (2 for $2.89, plus had $0.75 off coupon)

Non-BOGO items -

3 Publix Purified Waters ($0.79 each)
Publix Pretzel Rods ($1.50 for 1 lb.)
Perdue Boneless Chicken Breast (on sale for $2.99/lb.) Saved $4!
Perdue Ground Chicken (Sign said $2.99, scanned $3.29, Publix Promise - Got it FREE)
Publix Frozen Green Beans ($1.29 for 1 lb.)
Publix Frozen Mixed Veggies ($2.29 for 2 lb.)

COUPONS: $2.50
BOGO Savings: $24.98
Advantage Buy Savings: $0.29
Publix Promise Savings: $3.29
Total Paid: $31.57
Total Savings $31.06

Anyone else do the Publix BOGO deals this week? What did you buy?

Thanks Mom for the Glad Storage Bag idea! They are awesome!

My #1 Frugal Shopping Tip!

2008-05-22T19:58:00.004-04:00

Are you ready for a great shopping experience? Ok, here's my #1 tip for a wonderful, frugal shopping trip........PRAY!!!

Seriously, I'm not joking; it works! Yes, even in "small" matters such as our weekly shopping trips, God cares!

For example, last week I really needed some new shoes. The ones that I had to wear to work were killing my feet! I had exactly $11 cash left to spend, and thought, "Wow, this is going to be tough." So I prayed. I asked God to help me find a pair of shoes that were not only comfortable, but were stylish and less than $11.

I went in the store fully confident that God would provide...and He did! I found a cute pair of shoes that are very comfortable, but when I looked at the price tag, it read $12.99. I was a little disappointed, but I prayed again.

And that's when I noticed that those exact shoes were on sale for $9.99 that week! So with tax the shoes were $10.64! God provided AND I had change!

Moral of the story: Don't ever think that something is so small that God doesn't care. As our loving Abba, He wants to bless us...all we have to do is ask and believe. His answer may not be in the exact way we thought or exactly WHEN we want it, but He always, always, always provides!

Shabbat Shalom!

Check out more frugal ideas at Biblical Womanhood.

Graphic courtesy of AllPosters.com.

Walgreen's: $5/$20 Coupon ONLY for Friday!

2008-05-22T13:38:00.002-04:00

Walgreen's just released a new $5/$20 coupon, but it's only good tomorrow, May 23, 2008.

Print yours out here.

See Walgreen's deals for this week at Sisterly Savings.

It's FREE Iced Coffee Day again at Dunkin' Donuts!

2008-05-22T13:08:00.003-04:00

Every Thursday between May 15 and June 12, hop into Dunkin' Donuts for your free iced coffee! Don't forget to add a flavor....I got coconut today. Yummy!

I'm not sure if this is working in all areas, so if you have this deal where you live please leave a comment and let me know! It's working in south Florida at least!

Parasha B'chukotai, Leviticus 26:3-27:34

2008-05-22T07:00:00.009-04:00

This year we read B'chukotai (Lev. 26:3-27:34) all by itself, as it is a leap year. In regular years we read it along with last week's portion, B'har (Lev. 25:1-26:2). I was so excited as I read both of these portions, as it is simply amazing that we are seeing a prophecy from waaaay back in Leviticus come true before our very eyes! Allow me to explain...

In Leviticus 25:1-5, God commands the people to observe a sabbath for the land, a shmittah year. That means that every seven years, they are to allow the land to rest or lie fallow. Basically, it was a year "off" for everyone once every seven years. God taught them to stockpile their food throughout the other six years so that they have enough to eat not only for the sixth year, but also for the seventh and eighth years (remember, since they would not be planting on the seventh year, they would have to have enough to eat during the eighth year as well - see Lev. 25:20-22).

In Leviticus 26:14-16, God sets before the people blessings for obedience and punishments for disobedience. When you read "punishments," don't read it as God is an angry, vengeful being just sitting up there waiting to slap us when we go astray. He really is much more loving than that! Read it as a loving parent who only wants to teach his children the way of life, and to draw his children closer to himself. Here's one of those "punishments" from Lev. 26:31-33:

I will turn your cities into ruins and lay waste your sanctuaries, and I will take no delight in the pleasing aroma of your offerings. I will lay waste the land, so that your enemies who live there will be appalled. I will scatter you among the nations and will draw out my sword and pursue you. Your land will be laid waste, and your cities will lie in ruins. Then the land will enjoy its sabbath years all the time that it lies desolate and you are in the country of your enemies; then the land will rest and enjoy its sabbaths. All the time that it lies desolate, the land will have the rest it did not have during the sabbaths you lived in it. (NIV)

Therefore, God was saying, "If you don't observe my teachings and way of life, I'm going to disperse you throughout the nations and allow the land to have it's sabbaths." And that is just what He did...evidence for the existence of God! Have the Jewish people not been scattered to the uttermost parts of the earth?

BUT, they were not cast away forever. As He says in Lev. 26:40-44:

But if they will confess their sins and the sins of their fathers—their treachery against me and their hostility toward me, which made me hostile toward them so that I sent them into the land of their enemies—then when their uncircumcised hearts are humbled and they pay for their sin, I will remember my covenant with Jacob and my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land. For the land will be deserted by them and will enjoy its sabbaths while it lies desolate without them. They will pay for their sins because they rejected my laws and abhorred my decrees. Yet in spite of this, when they are in the land of their enemies, I will not reject them or abhor them so as to destroy them completely, breaking my covenant with them.

I am the LORD their God.

So now God is saying that the Jewish people will be dispersed to all the other nations, and they will be humbled and repent to Him. He says that He will NEVER break His covenant with them. Interestingly enough, some in the Body of Messiah hold to view that God in fact did break covenant with them, and replaced them with the Church. However, if God did do that, then He does not keep His Word. This "Replacement Theology" is unBiblical, anti-God, and must be "replaced" itself with the Truth of the Word. This is a whole other topic for another day, but just as Sha'ul says in Romans 11 says, believers are not replacing the branches, but are grafted-in among them.

So far we have seen God's commandment to observe the sabbath year for the land, the punishment for disobedience, and God's promise to respond in the event of Israel's repentance. Jeremiah 31:1-5 gives us what happens next:

"At that time," declares the LORD, "I will be the God of all the clans of Israel, and they will be my people." This is what the LORD says: "The people who survive the sword will find favor in the desert; I will come to give rest to Israel."
The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love;

I have drawn you with loving-kindness.
I will build you up again and you will be rebuilt, O Virgin Israel.

Again you will take up your tambourines and go out to dance with the joyful.
Again you will plant vineyards on the hills of Samaria;

the farmers will plant them and enjoy their fruit.
There will be a day when watchmen cry out on the hills of Ephraim,

'Come, let us go up to Zion, to the LORD our God.' "

This is the really exciting part! God promised to bring the people back to the land...and He did exactly that, in our generations! The modern state of Israel is celebrating her 60th anniversary this year! As we watch God's plan unfold, we must remember that God ALWAYS keeps His Word. To me, the fact of Israel's existence is proof that God is. Without Him, there would be no Israel today. I've heard this story many times, but I love it:

One day in the late 19th Century, Queen Victoria of England reportedly
asked her Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, this question...
"Mr. Prime Minister, what evidence can you give me of the existence of God?"
Disraeli thought for a moment and then replied, "The Jew, your
majesty."

So now that we have this knowledge, what do we do about it? I think that Isaiah 40:1-2 and 40:9-11 give us our answer:

Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the LORD's hand double for all her sins...

You who bring good tidings to Zion, go up on a high mountain. You who bring good tidings to Jerusalem, lift up your voice with a shout, lift it up, do not be afraid; say to the towns of Judah, "Here is your God!" See, the Sovereign LORD comes with power, and his arm rules for him. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.

Publix BOGO Deals: 5/22-28

2008-05-21T20:26:00.012-04:00

*Some prices may vary by region.

Lays Potato Chips [Assorted Varieties, Made With 100% Pure Sunflower Oil, 11.5 to 13.25-oz bag (Excluding Baked!, Light, and Natural.)]

Oscar Mayer Beef Franks [Regular, Light, No Fillers Bun Length, XXL, or Jumbo, 16-oz pkg.]

Publix Peeled Baby Cut Carrots [Organic or Conventional, 16-oz bag]

Dove Ice Cream Bars or Miniatures [Assorted Varieties, 11.25 or 12-oz pkg.] (save up to $4.49)

Bertolli Skillet Pasta & Sauce [Assorted Varieties, 19.4-oz bag] (save up to $4.99)

Weight Watchers Smart Ones Desserts [Assorted Varieties, 4.9 to 6.6-oz pkg.] (save up to $2.49)

Stouffer's French Bread Pizza [Assorted Varieties, 2-ct. 10.37 to 12.5-oz box] (save up to $3.19)

Bagels, 4-Count [Plain, Egg, Cinnamon Raisin, or Onion, Your Choice of Assorted Flavors, From the Publix Bakery, 12-oz pkg.]

Vlassic Sandwich Stackers [Or Pickles or Spears, Selected Varieties, 16 to 46-oz jar] (save up to $2.69)

Taco Bell Home Originals Dinner [Assorted Varieties, 10.75 to 16.35-oz box] (save up to $2.69)

Del Monte Tomatoes [Assorted Varieties, 14.5-oz can] (save up to $1.27)

Ghirardelli Premium Brownie Mix [Or Cookie or Muffin, Assorted Varieties, 17 to 20-oz box] (save up to $2.79)

Kraft Barbecue Sauce [Assorted Varieties, 16.25 or 18-oz bot.] (save up to $1.19)

A.1. Steak Sauce [Assorted Varieties, 10-oz bot.] (save up to $3.95)

Lipton Sides [Assorted Varieties, 4 to 6.4-oz pkg.] (save up to $1.47

Uncle Ben's Country Inn Rice [Broccoli Au Gratin, Pilaf, Homestyle Chicken & Vegetables, Wild Rice & Chicken or Mexican Fiesta, 6-oz box] (save up to $1.39)

Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Snack Crackers [Assorted Varieties, 6.6 to 8-oz pkg.] (save up to $2.19)

Keebler Fudge Shoppe Cookies [Or Dipping Delights or E.L. Fudge, Assorted Varieties, 8.5 to 15-oz bag] (save up to $3.09)

Breyer's Ice Cream [Assorted Varieties, 48 or 56-oz ctn.] (save up to $5.89)*

Kellogg's Cereal [Special K, 12 to 14-oz or Raisin Bran, 25.5-oz box] (save up to $3.99)

Nabisco Chips Ahoy! Cookies [Assorted Varieties, 14 to 15.25-oz pkg.] (save up to $3.45)

Nature Valley Granola Bars [Or Trail Mix Bars, 7 to 8.9-oz box or General Mills Fiber One or Curves Bars, 5.3 or 7-oz box, Assorted Varieties] (save up to $2.85)

Gatorade Thirst Quencher [Assorted Varieties, 64-oz bot.] (save up to $2.50)

Fresh Express Salad Blend [Assorted Varieties, 5 to 12-oz bag] (save up to $3.99)

Bush's Best Baked Beans [Or Grillin' Beans, Assorted Varieties, 22 or 28-oz can] (save up to $1.67)

Kraft or Seven Seas Dressing [Assorted Varieties, 16-oz bot. (Excluding South Beach Living.)] (save up to $2.69)

Kraft Mayonnaise [Or Miracle Whip Dressing, Assorted Varieties, 32-oz jar] (save up to $3.59)

Meow Mix Dry Cat Food [Assorted Varieties, 3 to 3.5-lb pkg.] (save up to $4.49)

GE Energy Smart Bulb [Or Mini Spiral Compact Fluorescent, 10 to 26-Watt, 1-ct. pkg.]

Electrasol Automatic Dishwasher Detergent [Assorted Varieties, 75-oz bot.] (save up to $4.19)

Glad Zipper Freezer or Storage Bags [Assorted Varieties, Gallon or Quart Size, Value Pack, 30 to 50-ct. pkg.]

Chinet Classic White Plates [see add for specific varieties] (save up to $5.79)

*As I was scouring the ads today, I noticed that not only Publix, but also Albertson's, Food Lion AND Winn-Dixie have Breyer's ice cream on BOGO this week! Yay for extra ice cream!

**Remember, if you have them, to use 2 coupons when you buy the BOGO's!!!

***I haven't done the match-ups for coupons yet, but if you see any, please do share in the comments section!

See Cassie's Blog and Fiddledeedee for more Publix deals with coupon match-ups!