Reading...
So, girls, you all know my love of reading books, especially Francine Rivers!
Well, when I came home from WORK today
(yes, I got a job, working at a daycare, read on) -
there was a present with a card waiting for me!
Yes, my husband bought me the new F.R. book!!!!!!!
It is the 4th book of her new series, 'Sons of Encouragement'.
This one is The Prophet, and is about Amos.

Something that is really neat about her books is that she has a
bible study that goes along with them.

I am excited to begin reading it and have already been entrigued by
reading the first few pages describing Amos' role as a Shephard.
*More later, as I get into the book*

Working at a Daycare!
Yes, I do have a job, as a Kelly and Beth.
It is in the owner's home -which is HUGE!
Right now things are kind of just getting started, only a few kids...
but more are signing up!
I do really like it, the hours fly by, and the owner is very nice.
I would love to be in a school working,
but haven't been offered a job there yet!

Kinship Group
On the issue of making friends... on Saturday I went to an outlet mall
with my mother-in-law & sister-in-law! I had a good time with them, but
I am also looking forward to meeting new friends, and only hoping they can
reflect a portion of the friendship I have with you girls.

At our church there are Kinship Groups -like bible studies-
and Mike and I have just joined one that will begin in the next week or two.
So this will be one way that we can not only meet other couples,
but meet friends that can encourage us in our marriage and walk with Jesus.
I know it might not be easy.
Hey, why don't we choose a neutral location and we can all move there!

Well, this is my update! Michele said she might add a recipe later, so I thought
I would add the recipe for the soup I made last night!

Warming Winter Lentil Soup:
(maybe don't use so much thyme, it was really strong)
(also, I cooked sausage and added it to the soup for more flavor, but that isn't necessary)

8 oz bacon, cut into pieces
2 onions chopped
8 carrots chopped
1 C chopped celery
1 red sweet pepper
4 medium garlic cloves, minced
6 C chix broth
2 C lentils
1 1/2 C water
3 bay leaves
2 t cumin
2 t thyme
freshly ground pepper

Cook bacon crisp, remove bacon and save drippings in pan.
Cook onion until tender, not brown, in drippings. Add other veggies and garlic.
Cook for 5-7 minutes or until veggies are tender.
Add remaining ingredients. Boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 30-45 minutes till soup is desired consistency.
Remove bay leaves and add bacon (and sausage if desired).