The NorMel House

New Year's Eve Wow. 2016 is over. This year has been filled with the many trials. I said goodbye to my beloved Bichon, had several surgeries, seen friends go through illnesses and loss, witnessed the brokenness of this world ruin families and lives, buried a child and so much more. Yet in all of this I stand confident that God is my refuge and strength. Through each struggle He has upheld me, He has shown grace, mercy and love. I pray that whatever comes in 2017 He will continue to uphold me. May His light shine through me in this dark and broken world. It will be a new dawn, a new day, a new chance to try again. From the NorMel House to yours: may God bless you richly in the things that truly matter

Proverbs 3: 5, 6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Its interesting that the heart is often spoken of in the Bible. Several times we are told to keep things in our heart; for example Deut 6:6 "These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.", Proverbs 6:21 "Bind them always on your heart, fasten them around your neck." and 2 Corinthians 3:3 "You show that you are a letter from Christ, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the Living God, not on tablets of stone, but on tablets of human hearts." The heart is an important thing, and is often spoken of in an emotional and mental sense. As a teenager I used to write quite a bit of poetry and more often than not I spoke of things that affected my heart. We tend to use the heart as a way to express something that is important to us. We believe something with all

Proverbs 18:10 "The name of the Lord is a fortified tower, the righteous run to it and are safe" At first glance it may seem this verse is talking about refuge from an enemy, but take a moment to read the surrounding verses. The context of this verse is quite interesting. It's found amidst proverbs on the use and misuse of our mouths and the consequences. Satan does not always tempt us in obvious ways. He sneaks into our thoughts with words of slander, anger, gossip, and malice. When we do not guard our thoughts and thus our tongues we hurt others and stir up strife and contention. We can guard our thoughts by running to the Lord. Fill your mind with the wisdom of God's word and there is less room for Satan to slip into your thoughts. Verse 15 says "the heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out". The Lord is our tower, run to Him, seek His knowledge, ask for His Word to fill your heart and mind. Our words reflect o

When I look at your heavens, the work of your hands, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?         Ps. 8:3&4 Moments. Moments are what we're given. A moment to think, a moment to hold on to, a moment of peace, a moment of silence. Moments. Each precious, tiny moment a gift. To love, cherish, to have and to hold on to. At this moment (and for quite a few lately) my heart is actively reminding me of moments passed, moments that never happened and ones that won't ever happen. It hurts. When I think of all the moments I'll never have with my children, you know the ones every parent looks forward to, my chest hurts. First Christmas, first steps, first words, first birthday, so many firsts that I won't get with them. I'm thankful Denver and his siblings will never have to feel this pain. We often forget to live in each God given moment. We worry about tomor

"Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?" Matt. 6:25 - 26 (ESV)  When we consider our lives, do we truly understand that all things are in God's Hands? So often we struggle with situations or difficulties and try to fix them. Sometimes there are actions we can take, but then we worry about whether it was the right action or choice. We need to lay it all before Him in prayer and then trust that He is in control of all things! Seek God's help, and then trust that He will lead you on the right path.  We also need to remember to leave it with Him. There have been times in my life where I've prayed about things and I say I'm leaving

Day 20 - "Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity" Psalm 133:1 I am so thankful for my family in Christ. How blessed we are to be able to go to church today! To be able to worship in freedom, to openly share our faith and praise God. This past year there have been times when the love of our church family has truly shone brightly. I am so thankful for the love and care God has shown through his people. This past year we have had countless meals made for us, people have helped clean our house, and we've received numerous cards. Our communion of saints has cared for us, loved us and supported us through all the trials and hardships this past year has seen. I am so thankful that God has given us our church family. It is truly a blessing and an amazing thing to see everyone working together to support each other. With love, #thenormelhouse because things in life are never really normal

  Yup, back on the puppy train... They're getting older, more spunky and playful and just too cute to resist. I had to have a picture of my handsome Mr Knightly, the daddy of these cuties! They don't get their adorable looks and characters from a stranger! The pic on the right is one of the little gaffers after a bath and blow dry :) I seriously can't wait til my Roxie has hers!!!! There may end up being an overload of puppy pictures then... #thenormelhouse Where things are anything but normal and I'm eagerly awaiting puppies!

 We often forget to be thankful and there is so much to be thankful for in this life. One of the ways of dealing with anxiety and depression is to change your pattern of thoughts. As we go through life there are many things that can bring us down and cause depression, but there are also those who struggle with chemical imbalances. I bring this up because there is truth to the thought "positivity breeds positivity", but while it can't fix everything, there is definitely reason to strive for it. 90 days of gratitude. It's a challenge. Every day for 90 days you must come up with something new that is positive and that you're thankful for, and list at least  one good reason why you're thankful for it. No repeats. It's harder than you think! The first few days are easy, but then you end up having to look at your life and the world around you a little closer. If you spend time every day thinking about it and writing it out you'll find a new appreciation for

Day 17 - It may seem a bit odd, but have you ever thought about water. Seriously. It can do amazing and beautiful things. It sustains life, it can take life, it stands or flows, it can be a force to be reckoned with or a comfort for the weary and a source of healing for pain. It can be a beautiful and magnificent sight. I look out my front window and there is snow covering the fields that will eventually melt and run away, but for now its a beautiful sparkling reminder of the many aspects of H2o. I'm excited for the time when the snow starts melting a little and then freezes and there ends up being these beautiful icicles hanging off everything. A source of life, and so often a beautiful work of art. So, as strange as it sounds, today I'm thankful for water and the many things God has made it for. #thenormelhouse where things are anything but normal

I love the snow. I love how bright and white and beautiful it looks when the whole world around me is covered in a blanket of shimmering snowflakes. I love looking out my front window and seeing it blowing and flying everywhere. I think it's a beautiful testament to how amazing our God really is. I feel this awe and love from the comfort of a warm house, tucked in a warm blanket and having enjoyed a wonderful roast dinner made by my dear husband. I'm so thankful for these undeserved blessings and for our Heavenly Father's continued Grace and mercy. May He graciously watch over those who are without these things we take for granted

Emotions betray us. I know, I know, there’s a purpose for them, but the way I see it, it comes down to Faith versus Feeling. I am a person who lives with overwhelming emotions. Not just moody, or fluctuating, but OVERWHELMING. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by something? Have you ever been so submerged in something, so surrounded by it, so overtaken by it, that it literally feels like it’s the only thing in your world at that moment? I have. I do. Constantly. I am not an expert, or a doctor, or a scientist, nor do I have any qualifications but one; life. When it comes down to making decisions most people will go with what they feel is right; I don’t. I go with what I know is right. God has given us everything we need in order to know what is right and wrong. Plain and simple (well, not really, our emotions can make things very complicated and sometimes there’s no black and white line, or writing on the wall, but you’ll get my drift eventually). I should start by saying that I don’t thi

Remember We wait in eagerness Guns in hand But the time has come For us to stand Look at my face Do not turn away Think of us all Remember this day We go on a journey Though most won’t return In your heart and your mind May this image burn We fight as one One reason, one goal Dirt on our hands Faces streaked with coal Some lie in trenches Mud up to the waist Rubbing hands on their cheeks To warm up their face Some have been captured Tortured and shamed Herded like sheep No reference to name Others fly above us To lend us support Though some have fallen None will abort Bombs are exploding And bullets fly past I give you this picture Cause it may be my last This letter I write To tell of times at war But remember again The way I was before Remember us joking Laughing so hard we could cry For that freedom we fight And are willing to die Melynda Reinink (Printed in the Dunnville Chronicle for Remembrance Day, 2005)

A friend lost a child this past week. He was her 6th son. She has two beautiful daughters, but all her sons have moved on to glory. My heart just broke when I found out and as devastated as I was for them I know she still hurts more. When we lose a child we often feel it's too soon, or think "I just wish I could have held them (for some it may be held them once more)". We will get to, I have no doubt I will see my children again. And yet, as I saw this post on Instagram I couldn't help but feel sad and hurt. I don't think that will ever leave me but I'm thankful for the knowledge that God is holding them. "We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 From the NorMel House where things are anything but normal and where the burden of grief can be shared

Lisa Smouter: current art projects: doodling my way from dark to light... : I am on the verge of creating some new work, probably continuing on the theme of motherhood or home life or something familiar and real r... A beautiful artist and a beautiful woman, I'm proud to know her! Check out her amazing art!

Another crazy day in the life of me. I've apparently decided that if all the vendors events are expensive than I should just throw my own. It's been a ridiculously busy couple of days. Not physically, but a whole lot of correspondence with a whole lot of people! As it stands I've got 19 or so vendors lined up for this coming Saturday from 10-3 at my church. I've put out an ad, sent it around fb pages and groups and will be doing posters. Really hoping we get lots of traffic, there's some pretty great vendors lined up! If you don't have plans, come on down, have a cup of coffee and some goodies and shop! 353 Stone Church Rd E Hamilton Ontario. Sat Dec 3, 2016 from 10-3...and bring a friend ;) And now I'm off to zzzzzzzland! From the NorMel House where things are anything but normal, hope to see you Saturday! http://www.kijiji.ca/v-events/hamilton/one-stop-holiday-shop/1219599888?siteLocale=en_CA

This morning we had a sermon which brought me to tears. A sermon about Abraham being told to sacrifice his one and only beloved son. He said, "Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you." GEN 22:2 ESV Without hesitation Abraham packs up to do as he is asked. He is told to sacrifice his only beloved son; the son whom he prayed and longed for, whom he waited for years for, THIS son he is asked to give up to God. And he doesn't question or argue or even drag his feet, he trusts. He simply trusted God with his child. In my weakness, I cry for him. How does one just accept a request like that without hesitation? I know Abraham trusted God, and I often pray for that strength of faith and courage. During the sermon the minister brought up the comparison of God sending His only begotten Son to die for us and these two things have been especially diffi

Sonohysterograph Sound like fun? Nope. It seriously isn't. I have had many of these on the journey to motherhood. Today I had another one. I actually prepped for this one by taking several Advil and it still managed to be the worst one I've ever had. Why do I keep putting myself through these? Well, today's was the first look since my surgery; to see how the surgery went and make sure everything is ok. I'm very thankful that things are good, but the stabbing pain that shot through my neck, shoulders, lungs and ribs when they shot the saline in really puts a damper on my enthusiasm. (If you don't know what it is, Sonohysterogram: is a technique in which fluid is injected through the cervix into the uterus, and ultrasound is used to make images of the uterine cavity.) Time for some brutal honesty. On December 30, 2015 I was in the hospital giving birth to my son Denver. I was only 16 weeks pregnant, and he was the most beautiful boy I'd ever seen. He didn'

Coolest entertainment fun. Went to my first escape room last night! www.thecrux.ca They have one escape room in Niagara falls Ontario called dead air; a zombie apocalypse theme. I'm not a zombie fan, in fact I normally hate zombie stuff, but this wasn't freaky in any way. Norm and I went with 2 other couples, and it was really cool! Basically you solve puzzles and have to figure out how to unlock things and get out of the room in an hour. We did it with 6 minutes to spare :) Seriously recommend trying out different escape rooms, and I think 6 was the right amount of people too. We checked out this brew house afterwards called Taps and, I'm happy to say, watched the Habs beat the Leafs ;) that's right, if I'm watching/following hockey, I'm a Habs girl... Much to the dismay of my guy friends lol They had a guy playing guitar and singing, and it felt good to be out for a night, it's been a while. He totally reminded me of younger years lol, sang stuff I

What a crazy busy and fun day! My vendor event was tonight and I had so much fun!!!! It was busy, and I sold some products, talked to a LOT of people and really had a good time. Plus I used my new Square, so it's already come in handy! Today kinda made me feel like a chicken with its head cut off. (I really hope you know that expression- if you've never experienced the source of it, I can honestly tell you it's an accurate description). I got up early (the dogs are used to getting up with Norm so him being away for work means I get woken up earlier than usual, as Mr Knightly and Mrs Roxie require a bathroom break and breakfast). Let them out, gave them breakfast and went back to bed; apparently my lack of sleep decided to catch up with me. Got up, had coffee, designed a Norwex sale picture for the Facebook group, packed everything up and realized I needed to get going or I'd be late. Trying something new: my first Osteopath appointment. She was super nice, came acros

Puppies grow so fast - It's amazing how quickly they grow. There is something so therapeutic about snuggling a puppy... I love crawling in the pen and taking all of them in my lap. They'll suck on your chin, your nose, your fingers, any warm skin lol! They're hungry little monsters and I can't imagine what their momma must feel! They tug and pull and shove their paws at her, making greedy sucking noises lol Its 8 weeks of cuteness and amazement Yup. I'm repeating myself. But really, who can blame me? I received my Square in the mail today and spent the evening entering products, codes and prices. I'm kind of excited to try it out at my vendor show this weekend. Fingers crossed I have some success in growing my business! I still haven't really come up with a cool name, but part of me wonders if I should just leave it under the NorMel House "umbrella". Not that the Nor ever calls us that, but the Mel is sticking with it. Between puppies, croc

How do you turn your brain off? You know, when you're body is tired, but your thoughts are racing. I love being an Independent Norwex Consultant, and I know it's probably the newness of it all, but I am constantly thinking Norwex. What kind of displays can I make? What should I do for games and prizes or draws? How can I get out there and share this amazing stuff? Am I doing it justice in how I talk about it? How do I cram all the benefits of using Norwex into a few words? And it goes on... I think I'm so excited about it I can't seem to turn it off in order to sleep lol... I went to bed over 2 hours ago and yet here I am, wide awake with Norwex on my brain. So, my question is, how do you deal with something like this? New job, new relationship, new car, new whatever it is that's making you too excited to sleep... Normally I would try reading or listening to something, or even reciting passages from memory in an attempt to get my mind on something good and peacefu

Cuteness overload. Yup, I have a puppy addiction. But who doesn't???? Seriously, there can't be too many things that are more heartwarming, cheering, and comforting than a puppy snuggle/pile. There's something so therapeutic about snuggling tiny, soft, squirmy, nuzzling, adorable and still blind puppies. Their eyes aren't open yet, and they act like hungry little hippos grabbing onto any skin they can(like my chin, or my nose, or fingers).  A few days old they've already grown quite a bit, and their fat little tummies are hilariously adorable as they shuffle around looking for momma. I tell you, my Mr Knightly sure makes some adorable puppies. Don't believe me? Try telling me this isn't one of the cutest things you've seen... From the NorMel House where things are anything but normal, hug a puppy today, you won't regret it

Once upon a time, there were two happy puppies. Their hair got long and hung in their faces so mommy decided they needed haircuts. The puppies did not want haircuts so they tried to run, however they weren't fast enough. After a whole lot of splashing and shaking in the bathtub there were two soaking wet Schnauzers, a wet red head and a soaking wet blond. Blowdryers turned on and their hair got soft and silky and they were finally ready for their haircuts! With some snipping and buzzing they soon looked as handsome and pretty as ever. And so the couch snuggling and blanket hogging was necessary once again. The end. From the NorMel House where things are anything but normal, don't forget to groom your puppies. Matted knots can hurt them!

Ever have it where everything feels damp and you just can't get warm? Last night and today seems to be one of those times for me...Could it be lack of sleep??????????????????????? I'm sitting on my couch, wearing the ugliest sweater known to mankind, pink fluffy monster toe socks, and drinking a VERY LARGE coffee. I had a fantastic night doing a Norwex party for a wonderful young lady and we ended up chatting for a long time afterwards. Completely didn't realize it was nearly 1 am until I got in my car to go. Oops. The evening was a blast; I blundered my way through attempting to remember to tell them some factual things, but really ended up talking more about the products I use and love, and why I love them. Honesty speaks volumes I believe. On a different note, Hamilton has decided to start showing signs of the season change, its getting pretty chilly in the mornings! I normally love the cold, but the damp cold is just a nasty feeling if you ask me. Time to turn the f

I'm a happy hooker. I have been hooking for over two years now and sometimes I wonder if it's an addiction lol. For all those yarn lovers out there, you know what I mean! For everyone else, I hope you took a hint from the picture as to what I'm referring to... I love crocheting my little stuffies. They are so soft and cuddly and squishy!!!!! They make great gifts and are just too cute to resist. My little "Octo"-friend is my latest little addition. I saw a few sea creatures and jellyfish and just had to make my own design. His curly legs are just so fun. Before that were my double pink bears, I love the variegated blanket yarn with the solid pink and white limbs. I sorta wing it with the first one, which means a lot of trying out different techniques...there's probably an easier way to design crochet patterns but I'm a visual person who apparently needs to see and feel them. At some point I should probably write a pattern down properly instead of

Saturday...Don't you love Saturdays? I do. Saturday's are great. I get to spend time with the hubby, and we either get lots done oooooor nothing at all. Despite the dismal grey looming out the front window; today has actually been a fruitful and rewarding day so far! The Nor of the family has put carpet down in the basement and is currently working on our front door. I have to laugh. We've been here for over 6 years and we're finally working on the front door. We never really use it so we never really think about it; unfortunately there comes those moments when someone comes that isn't a usual guest and you embarrassingly realize you still haven't fixed it. I'm happy to say the side door was made a beautiful slate blue a few weeks ago already, and the last few layers of paint on the front door will hopefully be gone soon! You have to love the hideous teals and yellows they used back in the 50s... The Mel in the family, aka me, has attempted to get things d

Today I blew raspberries in my nephews neck. A-DOR-A-BLE! I didn't think it possible, but the moment got even cuter when I tried to pause for some air and he leaned his head over to try get more!  Nothing gets me quite like the giggles of a baby or child. Children are precious gifts, given to people for a time. Appreciate every moment, because even if God allows you to keep them here they still grow up; and while there's still wonderful moments, each stage will bring something different. I had but a moment with my last child, he was here and gone before anyone else could even meet him. I'm thankful for that precious moment. It was more than I had with his siblings before him. I'm not trying to bring tears or sadness. I just hope that even through the dirty diapers, the sleepless nights, the crying, the lack of energy and the many other hard things that come with parenting you'll remember to cherish the moments of beauty. The precious weight on your chest as your c

I LOVE finding good deals! Today I bought 100 coffee pods for my knock off Keurig for $32.98! Thanks No Name brand! Super happy as I tend to be lazy in the morning; drop in a pod and some water and I'm all set :) From the NorMel House, where things are anything but normal!

Ok...I got this! The NorMel House has been through quite a bit the last few years, and having never written a blog before I honestly don't know what to say...which is rare. If you ask my better half he'd probably tell you I've always got something to say and my usual response is that someone has to do the talking so why not me, right? Whether or not people pay attention really doesn't always matter; I find myself talking to my dogs throughout the day, but I know they get it. And they always appreciate a good conversation ;) I'm a woman of many interests as you'll probably figure out...but maybe I should leave that for another day's thoughts. It's currently 3 AM and let's be honest, if I was sleeping right now this probably wouldn't have happened. Boredom has a way of making things happen! This year started out with loss and there's been many hurdles but I think I'm finally getting a handle on things again... Starting fresh! New idea