So glad we have a video tonight. Haven’t ever asked for prayers but am asking for them this week. I have rotator cuff surgery scheduled for this Thursday. Asking for prayers for a quick recovery and the strength to get through the holidays as a mom of 3 without the use of my dominant arm 😂 thanks to everyone in advance! 🥰
I have been watching you for a while. I usually dont ask for prayers but i truly feel you have a gift to reach people that truly care . I am a grandma raising grandkids its a struggle they are nureo spicy issues. I been fighting cancer and a broken leg and hip this year and a half today i start chemo. I need strength.
Hey guys, I’m glad Marina is known to have a prayer request in her comments. My husband just lost his little brother December 1st he was shot. My husband and his family need all the prayers they can get! I appreciate everyone praying and taking time out of there day! I will be going through the other comments and praying for as many other people as I can! God bless! Marina thank you for having such a good soul! I’m so thankful and blessed to have found your UA-cam channel! ❤
Hi !!!! I am actually a professional seamstress, I worked in sewing factories for over 25 years and got hurt and ended up disabled. However, I have been able to continue on with sewing for people. Quilts and pillows are my favorites, although I have everything from wedding dresses to swimsuits; and, I have never been able to use a needle threader!!! 😂😂😂 I know it's nuts!!!!! I love to cross stitch!!! I am doing pillow cases for my daughter and my sons girlfriends for Christmas!!! So very happy you enjoy threading. (Special note: on the back of your cross stitching, when you finish with the thread, loop your needle underneath your threads 2 or 3 times. There is no tying and then all you have to do is trim your thread.). Much love sent to you and your precious family.
Glad y'all are finding some time for hobbies this month--a little fun mixed in with the craziness of December. I hope the kiddos enjoy their gifts. Continued prayers for Nanny.
I’ve been thinking about you all day. My poor kitty got a blood clot and all I can think is I wish I can have someone pray over him. He’s sedated and we are waiting to see if he will regain control of his legs or if we need to let him go. If anyone could just think about him tonight I would greatly appreciate it. His name is Mr. Mouse and I raised him since he was 3 weeks old. He doesn’t like anything in this world but plastic and running water and just recently meat sticks.
OMG! Merina, I have been saying for days that I want to pick up cross stitch again. My grandmother taught me when I was very young but after she passed I never did it again. I'm going to start again! You sparked a memory that I can bring into my current life.
That’s A Great Teaching Tool For All Of Us, Getting Our Kids A Few Nice Gifts & Having Them Pick A Name Off The Tree And Making Someone Else’s Christmas Splendid.😊 Thank You Merina.
I bought one of your hoodies that said fearfully created I gave it to my baby sister today. I say, baby sister she’s 68 years old. I told her I bought it from a Sweet lady that reminded me that my baby sister needed to know she was fearfully created
My Dear Marina , I am asking for many prayers for my wonderful Brother- in-law, He is battling brain cancer , Him , my sister and his children really need all the prayers they can get ❤️🙏
Each year my kids had to donate at least 10 items from their room to unfortunate children. Then if the received more than 10 gifts in total, they had to donate the amount over.
We always did the read, wear, need, and want, then starting Dec 25 through Jan 6. (Epiphany) 12th day of Christmas. They were given a small gift each day. We also started reading a chapter a day in Luke from December 1st through 24th. My kids are 42 and 45.
Hey, the hat on your cross stitch isn't messed up. It's unique. One of a kind. I think I've heard that the mayo makes the cake moist. I think it's awesome that you are trying new hobbies and also that you want to be a better you. I find it's easy to get "lazy" and just accept myself as I am now when I could be a better person.
I was a teen mom and was very poor I also grew up a poor kid so when I had triplets at 37 and we are now financially comfortable I definitely go over board for my littles .. book fair money, school trip money, bigger birthdays and family trips. It’s part for them but it definitely heals the little girl in me who didn’t get those things and the guilty mom who couldn’t do everything for my older kids .. for me it’s also about balance so we do a lot of charity and make sure my kids remain humble ❤
My Hubby does all the cross stitching in our home. I don’t like doing it. His pictures you can hang up backwards because his stitches are so good and tight. Keep at it and you will have a wonderful gift of love for your Hubby.
Its only used to give moisture to the cake. You know its egg and oil mixed together. You never taste it. You can fry grilled cheese in mayo The mayo taste is gone. You can use it any recipe if you don’t have oil and you will never get a dry cake unless you just way over bake it. Try making a grilled cheese. You put mayo on each side of bread and make sure its the side that is fried. Just cook it until its crisp and browned. You will be surprised. ❤
Really loved your Christmas gifts you are giving to your precious children sweetheart. You and Shane are raising wonderful children,and you are a true blessing to us all.
Good idea for Christmas. It’s about God and we are to help others. We are blessed when we give or help others. Kids these day are so spoiled and out of hand . I like what you are doing. I cut down a lot for my grands this year.
Hey Merina. First of all love your videos. You could be part of my family. Your very down to earth and humble. I can tell how much you love your kids and husband. You made a good statement about how material things for our children can out grow them within a year. I have a friend who instead of giving a lot of gifts to their kids. They made a new year renewal to take that money and plan family trips with eachother. They plan every year to go skiing are skating trying new things. They love it they have family pictures and all those memories. Im a grandmother and im so glad that we took vacations together when my child was young. Just something to think about and of course we could take those trips with you on utube. 😊 Your such a good mother and Shane is a wonderful father. Thanks for sharing your family with us each week.
I have totes full of cross stitch thread and kits but my favorite hobbies for winter are sewing and crochet, my favorite in summer in gardening and canning.
The Miracle Whip takes place of the egg and oil you normally add to your cake. Talking about cake. If you replace the oil in a box cake with apple sauce, equal measures, you will have a moisture rich cake. So good! My grandma did this all the time. She always made the best cakes. But I wanted to let you know is this. Never sell yourself short when it comes to cooking. I heard this recently "You are not growing as a person unless you are uncomfortable." I had to think about it. Unknowingly we all set boundaries for ourselves and we get comfortable inside those boundaries. But when we grow, we are uncomfortable. Your doing an amazing job at showing your kids it's OK to try new recipes, and be uncomfortable. If the recipes do not turn out good, well you learned from that too. Saying all this your doing a great job, and I enjoy watching you grow has a wife, mother, teacher, chief, baker, farmer and over all else a chaos wrangler. Ok, bye! ❤
Perfect Christmas gifts for the family. You put a lot of thought into picking them out. Angel Tree gifts are going to brighten many faces Christmas morning. ❤🙏 May God Bless you all ! Glad the dogs had fun in the snow.
Medina. You are such an inspiration. Don’t ever apologize for whaat you are able to get your children for Christmas. You plan and save for it all year. Your plan this year is ingenious. Great job of raising loving, caring children
I know I've asked for prayers a lot and y'all always come through. I need major prayers. I have to have surgery soon to fix 2 fistulas that are connected from my bladder to my intestine. I don't know when surgery is. I'll let y'all know when surgery is. I also ask y'all to please pray for a dear friend of mine I've met through UA-cam. Her son-in-law has lost over 60 lbs in a short time and having some serious health issues. He's in the hospital waiting for surgery right this minute. Thank you in advance. God Bless.
@@suemiller2099 thank you, friend. I've been getting your comments I just can't write everyone back and don't want anyone to feel left out. I hope you and your family are doing well. We're continuing to pray for y'all.
Praying for successful surgery, quick and easy recovery and strength as you go through this in Jesus Name. Praying also for this gentleman and his health issues. Jesus is the Great Physician and is All Knowing! He knows our need before we even do. Prayers for answers and solutions for him in Jesus Name. ❤❤❤❤
I am praying for you Alma. I hope your surgery goes well and a fast recovery! I am praying for your friend’s son in law as well along with his health issues! ❤️
If you like to cross stitch you should try diamond painting. The kids might like it too because they have lots of cool paintings for kids too. I would start with small ones first if you do try it. Love watching all the fun with the elves.
Mayonnaise cakes were popular back in the depression days. My mother made them all the time. It was a family favorite! That cake became popular because it doesn’t take eggs or oil. Since mayonnaise is made of oil and eggs! We love that cake. Did you know something else was popular during that era. It’s called a water pie. But I’ve not made one of those yet. I was told it’s very good also! 😇🩷
Oh goodness! Girl, I scrapbook and I am as far from organized as you can get! Lol. My husband retired Dec.31st and he started a crossstitch project that he printed off the internet. The last supper. It is large. He did it in 3 months. It is absolutely gorgeous! So much detail. I had it framed and it hangs in my living room. The back is as pretty as the front! I've never seen anyone do it so neat. I'd love to show it to you but I don't know how to show you on here. You're doing great.
I'm sorry, whoever tells you you're doing too much for your kids is wrong. You know your kids better than people watching a video and judging. If you've prayed about it and God is directing, that's what matters. You and Shane are fantastic parents. None of us are perfect. We do the best we can. I enjoy all your videos. My favorites are the DIY but I love watching the kids too and the home making.
I wanna start by saying thank you for everyone's prayers after I mentioned interviewing for a job. I got the job!! I will be working as the office manager / administrative assitant at a local church. I am so excited! Now to the video...thank you for sharing the list from the elves on how to make slime! My ten year old daughter is in her slime era and will be so excited to try this. You have sparked interest in me to try cross stitch again but doing it with plastic canvas and yarn. I used to do that with my Grammy growing up. I remember I found it calming for some reason. That cake looked so good! We are also having a small Christmas for our kids as far as gifts go. I love the ideas you gave as both my kids are big gamers as well. I feel like gamer kids can have a negative stereotype sometimes so it is refreshing to see supportive parents of gamer kids....hope that makes sense lol. Another lovely video with our besties!❤
I am a Momma that buys excessive things for under the tree. It is a mix of less expensive to the more expensive items. It's a personal thing and I personally love the feel of a tree skirt hidden by the love of thoughtful gifts I have picked out for my husband and little ones. I feel like they are only little once so I do what I can to fill up that skirt! lol. It is perfectly fine to do a one gift under the tree or 20 it's up to you and your family. Merry Christmas!
Marina oh my GOSH! YOU are doing really good. I used to do that and needle work with my grandma when I was 10 - 14 and my grandma said I was almost as good as her and she did an absolutely perfect job. So that was a big compliment from my grandma. FYI Marina they sell like a 3 count kits and each thing on the how to ones is the set of 3 and it teaches you all the different stitches. I loved it. It had been 50 years plus since I had done this. It was so much fun. If you get the kit of 3 and then also watch the things on UA-cam that showed you also, some are better than others.
Hiya merina, what a great vlog! Im 61yrs and what I've learnt is time goes very quickly, you have 4 beautiful children, if you want to spoil them then do it! When they are gamers it is very expensive but you want to make them happy. They are growing up, so enjoy being around them. ❤Please don't feel you have to justify what you spend, it's your money. Anyone moaning is just them trying to control you. ❤❤
I love cross stitch. I’ve been doing it for many many years. Made Christmas stocking for my two girls when they were born ( they are now 41 and 43). Made cross stitch stockings for my two grandchildren. Those stockings stay at my house for me to fill. I find it so relaxing. You’re doing great. Enjoy your new hobby. What a great gift and memories for your loved ones
I'm so very happy to hear that you have evolved into buying fewer things for Christmas. And that you have found other ways of spending or not spending money. I know God wants everyone to be a good steward of our blessings so you are definitely making Him smile Merina. God bless.
I fell right down the Flosstube rabbit hole here on UA-cam when I got back into cross stitching! I stitched decades ago when all we had was aida cloth and DMC floss. There are so many new options out there and many free charts online. I like to be purposeful with my projects so I have been stitching smaller project turning many into pillows for dough bowl fillers. I want to stitch a couple of ornaments this year too, but I fear time will run out before I finish them as I am somewhat of a slow stitcher. I am just savoring the process. So happy to hear your daughter is enjoying this creative art form! So enjoy how you celebrate Christmas and the desire to spread joy to others. ❤
You could put a dot of paint on each white stylus like the blue and red so each child will be able to locate their stylus. Love from your virtual grandmother ❤🎉
No no no not grandma here IT'S NANA ( it's spoken like then end of banana ) lol . Merina i think us elders speak with our hearts not to be harsh or taken mean. Sorry if I have ever come across that way. I have 5 grands that we kinda see long story but leaving it in God's hands ( you taught me tooo. Not that I don't believe just got angry with. Perhaps the way I was raised too) thank you for though. You are a youngen with a ol' soul. Truly a blessing in many of our lives. Both you and Shane plus Nany .... anyways love your honestly and thr way you are teaching your including the kids in the angel tree, we did that and I hope to take our grand kiddo out to pick one for her late brother and her self. Thank you happy holiday's Tori and fam
I used to cross stitch and as I got older I haven’t done it in years. I done a huge Bass for my hubby . He loves fishing. Still have that one. That’s a wonderful idea as far as the Christmas gifts , that is a huge life lesson. Always a blessing when you give. ❤🌲
You are doing a great job with the cross stitching gift for Shane. Your daughter did a great job with her gingerbread cross stitch project. It's really sweet that you two are bonding and making memories with cross stitching. That mayo cake didn't look bad at all. It was hilarious seeing your kids' reactions when you told them that the cake had mayo in it. I hope that you and your family are doing well ☺️♥️ God Bless!
Mayonnaise cakes are just eggs and oil subtracted from cake. I have always used mayo if I did not have eggs or oil in my cakes. You can also use applesauce in place of oil.
My dad was the artist in my family..but my 8th grade teacher came into our math class a couple of days before Christmas...she had bought us all crosstitching kits...omg!! I instantly fell completely in love...she said to have all stitches going one way...then come back and cross them..(unless its a like 2 or 3 blocks) they all need to be going the sames way...as you get better you will go faster..then you will be doing dishtowels, pillow cases, pillows..😂 it is so much fun...time consuming....use 2 strands at a time..so the image is thick...but not too thick...and make sure you you use the crosstitching needle..it has the dull end...but now I mostly do diamond painting!! I love it!!
Lived your video.❤ I have watched you since the beginning of your Utube channel. U my dear R one VERY SPECIAL PERSON. U have always had the compassion in your soul. I'm 75 yrs old. I knew the first time I watched the channel that U were one special lady. When God created you, he really broke the mold.❤❤ God bless you & your family. Tell Nanny, hello & God bless. 🥰🥰😍😍
The only hobby I have that I have stayed with is crochet. I crochet all the time. Sitting watching your show, I am crocheting. I am making my mom a pocket shawl for Christmas.
Too fun, Merina! I used to cross stitch a lot when I was younger. I don't know that i could do it now, though. I love your kiddos' gifts. I hope y'all have an amazing weekend! 💜
I got an advent calendar from Temu for $2.98 for my grandblessings. Each day you open a box, and there are puzzle pieces you build as family. Each day, you add to the puzzle. The last day puzzle will be finished. There is a total of 1008 pieces. They have on amazon as well but double price.
I'm literally so happy that you posted a video tonight so I have something to listen to as I drive home from work not to mention I'm overly concerned about the whole alien thing so it's taking my mind slightly off of it love you girl
I think whatever people can do is awesome! Everybody has different budgets and lives and anything you can get your kids, is going to be great. And thank you for reminding people that sometimes we can and sometimes we can’t and that is okay. ❤
Thank you for sharing this video. I always enjoy watching your family interact with each other. The kids' reaction to the cake was priceless. (Especially Colton's, when he liked it until he realized that there was mayonnaise in it...) The gifts you have selected for them this year will be a big hit, I'm sure. Especially the gift of giving. I'm pretty sure the gift of giving will be the longest lasting and most remembered gift for all of them. Good luck with your cross-stitch gift. I'm sure it will be very special. I look forward to seeing it once it is completed and given to Shane. God Bless.❤
If I were there,I would have said to take the cap off and use a chop stick to scrape the bottom of the bottle. But you improvised and looked like all had a good time! DEB IN GA.
Cross stitch is great. It can be as simple or as complicated as you like. Similar on expense. Very beginner friendly but with time, you can enjoy seeing your improvement. Also if you are enjoying doing it, don't let anyone criticize your work.
Yay. One TN crafter to another. I taught myself to crochet from a UA-cam video. I made a Christmas Afgan. I wish I could put a pic on here for you to see it.
@carolwilder2289 @carolwilder2289 well. I like to do something all the time. So I do things at night. I wish I could show ppl the afgan it turned out great it looks like plaid like really hard but so easy. This is the video link for the afgan. I promise super easy. My husband told it looks like one of those woven potholder. Lol. Now I can't unsee it. But I am still loving it and snuggling under it on this cold TN day. ua-cam.com/video/7DXl2_3M_D4/v-deo.htmlsi=8EySfEySMZTtSIY7
Oh my goodness, I’m sitting here watching “The Blind.” The guy playing Phil Roberson reminds me of Shane (the parts where Phil is nice). When the guy turns his head, it looks just like Shane! What an awesome movie of how someone was won to Christ and it changed EVERYTHING! ❤ you all! Are you getting any snow?
19 minutes in. I made a cross stich ornament in one of my elementary school classes. 4th/5th grade. it was a Christmas party. PTA Mom's came in, showed us the project. Had fun games treats etc. It was an amazing time. I remember that ornament that I made with their instruction. It didn't take long and it turned out so good. I wish I had it still. I have often thought about taking that hobby up. :) Oh yeah Mayonnaise cake, it's basically chocolate cake. The name sounds awful, but it's actually really good. old school recipe.
My grandmother used to make mayonnaise cake and now I make it. I think it is one of the best tasting chocolate cakes there is! Lol. It's never dry! You have to try it with some peanut butter icing! So good!
I used to cross stitch all the time and I would enter them into the fair. I loved it then my eyes went bad I can’t see good enough to cross stitch. I do miss it so keep us updated so I can live through you vicariously. lol.
Love your family.. My grandson is always wanting to make slime. That mayonnaise cake looked good. Your kids are gonna love what they got for Christmas. You are doing so well in teaching them the right values. Giving is better than receiving ❤😊
Welcome to the wonderful world of cross-stitch. Tucking the stitches in behind the back is just fine. Your piece is great & something to be proud of as you progress. Kindest regards from a fellow cross-stitcher who is picking back an entire row of stitching done the wrong way. LOL It happens. 😁 Cross-stitch can be any time for any reasons. 👍
Great video I only have 1 little one and that’s my great granddaughter I’m getting her baby alive with a target grocery basket it’s bright red I’ve been told by my heart and kidney drs this will be. My last holiday season on this earth which means I’ll be with my Saviour 😊 I think I’ll be here till Jesus calls me home. Lovenhugz from the capital city of Illinois ❤
Prayers ascending for you..the doctors don't always know..was a nurse over 40 years🙏 🙏🙏 May you be blessed always 🙌 Enjoy your Little One this season ❤
@pammpowers3149 praying for you. Please don't believe everything doctors say. I'm here because my mom didn't give up on trying for healthy kids. She had 4 miscarriages before my brother, then 3 in-between us.
In a cake that uses mayonnaise. That is used as the oil or butter in a cake. You dont taste it when the cake is baked. My little sister (who is almost 59 now) does the most beautiful counted cross stitch. She made me a picture of a noahs ark with all the animals 2x2. Its so pretty. She had it matted and framed under glass for me. I have it hung up in my family room. Still love it so much. Must have taken hours and hours and hours. Ive done pretty much all needlework there is. As i love crafts, always have. I need to start knitting again. Merry Christmas everyone!
Girl, I been cross-stitching for years, and I still mess up (and no I don't take it all out and fix it either, I work around it! LOL) And you look like you're FAST at it - that's a LOT done in less than a day!!! Especially ur first or second one, wow! Cross-stitching can be very relaxing :)
Oh and a tip on the thread twisting/tangling that my mom taught me... if ur startin to have troubles with ur thread, just let go of the needle and let it dangle, and it untwists the thread itself :) You can also thread ur one thread thru, and THEN fold it in half, and it keeps the thread from falling out of the needle :) (just put a knot on the loose ends)
I would love one of your handmade ornaments for my tree! ❤️ I collect Christmas Ornaments. Your cross stitching looks good! You should also try diamond painting, it is so much fun & relaxing!
Hey Marina. Glad to see your taking up the hobby of crossstitch. Being an avid stitcher I have a piece of advice if you take your needle down in the hole your loop will be on the top then feed your needle through the loop and the bring it back down through the same hole Hope that helps. Also there are you tube videos called floss tubes to help you. You should see some of the gorgeous work people do. Love your channel
Good evening, Marina just wanted to tell you that I went and bought the candy cane candle from Walmart and I love it. It makes the whole house smell wonderful hope that you and the family are doing well and I hope that your Grammy is doing well and also love to the fur babies😀
You need to try Peanut Butter Balls they are so easy but VERY addictive. ▢ 1.5 cup creamy peanut butter ▢ 9 Tbsp salted butter softened ▢ 3 cup powdered sugar ▢ 1 pkg of chocolate bark Combine butter, peanut butter and powdered sugar into a “dough” and roll into balls. Place in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up. Melt Chocolate bark according to instructions. Dip balls into chocolate and place in the fridge. Try to save some for others. It is so hard not to keep eating them.
The key to cross stitching is to make sure all of your stitches are going in the same direction... If you start off with your first discharge going from left to right and your top stitch goes from right to left you must do ALL in the same direction
When you do cross-stitch you need to keep the material as tight as a drum to make a better job of it. Live your tip on how to do the knot. I don't know why I never thought of it. It looks good
Great vlog. Don’t ever apologize for why or how you give to your kids. You work hard and that’s your business. I do think the older they get, the fewer actual presents they get just mostly because of the price point. Love the Angel Tree giving. Bless you, Miss Linda 🙏🏻🎄🙏🏻🎄
So glad we have a video tonight. Haven’t ever asked for prayers but am asking for them this week. I have rotator cuff surgery scheduled for this Thursday. Asking for prayers for a quick recovery and the strength to get through the holidays as a mom of 3 without the use of my dominant arm 😂 thanks to everyone in advance! 🥰
Sending lots of prayers
🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Praying for you, friend.
Prayers for you!
Praying for you.
I have been watching you for a while. I usually dont ask for prayers but i truly feel you have a gift to reach people that truly care . I am a grandma raising grandkids its a struggle they are nureo spicy issues. I been fighting cancer and a broken leg and hip this year and a half today i start chemo. I need strength.
Praying for complete healing and for strength of mind and body in Jesus Name.
Prayers ❤
Sending prayers 🙏
Prayers going up for you
🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Hey guys, I’m glad Marina is known to have a prayer request in her comments. My husband just lost his little brother December 1st he was shot. My husband and his family need all the prayers they can get! I appreciate everyone praying and taking time out of there day! I will be going through the other comments and praying for as many other people as I can! God bless! Marina thank you for having such a good soul! I’m so thankful and blessed to have found your UA-cam channel! ❤
Prayers to you and your family for your loss
@@tinadenike2357 Thank you so much!
We will pray for your family! I’m so sorry that happened 😢😢😢😢
Thank you so much! I love your channel! We appreciate it so much! ❤️❤️
Prayers to your family God bless y'all from East Tennessee
Hi !!!!
I am actually a professional seamstress, I worked in sewing factories for over 25 years and got hurt and ended up disabled. However, I have been able to continue on with sewing for people. Quilts and pillows are my favorites, although I have everything from wedding dresses to swimsuits; and, I have never been able to use a needle threader!!! 😂😂😂 I know it's nuts!!!!! I love to cross stitch!!! I am doing pillow cases for my daughter and my sons girlfriends for Christmas!!! So very happy you enjoy threading. (Special note: on the back of your cross stitching, when you finish with the thread, loop your needle underneath your threads 2 or 3 times. There is no tying and then all you have to do is trim your thread.). Much love sent to you and your precious family.
Glad y'all are finding some time for hobbies this month--a little fun mixed in with the craziness of December. I hope the kiddos enjoy their gifts. Continued prayers for Nanny.
I’ve been thinking about you all day. My poor kitty got a blood clot and all I can think is I wish I can have someone pray over him. He’s sedated and we are waiting to see if he will regain control of his legs or if we need to let him go. If anyone could just think about him tonight I would greatly appreciate it. His name is Mr. Mouse and I raised him since he was 3 weeks old. He doesn’t like anything in this world but plastic and running water and just recently meat sticks.
Praying for Mr. Mouse and you.
🙏🙏
Praying for you and Mr. Mouse.
I am praying for you and your kitten!
We are praying for Mr. Mouse! 😢❤❤
OMG! Merina, I have been saying for days that I want to pick up cross stitch again. My grandmother taught me when I was very young but after she passed I never did it again. I'm going to start again! You sparked a memory that I can bring into my current life.
That’s A Great Teaching Tool For All Of Us, Getting Our Kids A Few Nice Gifts & Having Them Pick A Name Off The Tree And Making Someone Else’s Christmas Splendid.😊 Thank You Merina.
I bought one of your hoodies that said fearfully created
I gave it to my baby sister today. I say, baby sister she’s 68 years old.
I told her I bought it from a Sweet lady that reminded me that my baby sister needed to know she was fearfully created
❤❤❤❤ that’s what it’s all about 😊😊😊
I love that!!
@billandbeverly that's a Beautiful story.
My Dear Marina , I am asking for many prayers for my wonderful Brother- in-law, He is battling brain cancer , Him , my sister and his children really need all the prayers they can get ❤️🙏
Prayers ❤
Each year my kids had to donate at least 10 items from their room to unfortunate children. Then if the received more than 10 gifts in total, they had to donate the amount over.
We always did the read, wear, need, and want, then starting Dec 25 through Jan 6. (Epiphany) 12th day of Christmas. They were given a small gift each day. We also started reading a chapter a day in Luke from December 1st through 24th. My kids are 42 and 45.
Praying for them.
🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Marina I can tell that you spend time with your kids because the gifts that you got for them suits their mind frame I'm one your new silent viewers
Hey, the hat on your cross stitch isn't messed up. It's unique. One of a kind. I think I've heard that the mayo makes the cake moist. I think it's awesome that you are trying new hobbies and also that you want to be a better you. I find it's easy to get "lazy" and just accept myself as I am now when I could be a better person.
I was a teen mom and was very poor I also grew up a poor kid so when I had triplets at 37 and we are now financially comfortable I definitely go over board for my littles .. book fair money, school trip money, bigger birthdays and family trips. It’s part for them but it definitely heals the little girl in me who didn’t get those things and the guilty mom who couldn’t do everything for my older kids .. for me it’s also about balance so we do a lot of charity and make sure my kids remain humble ❤
My Hubby does all the cross stitching in our home. I don’t like doing it. His pictures you can hang up backwards because his stitches are so good and tight. Keep at it and you will have a wonderful gift of love for your Hubby.
Its only used to give moisture to the cake. You know its egg and oil mixed together. You never taste it. You can fry grilled cheese in mayo The mayo taste is gone. You can use it any recipe if you don’t have oil and you will never get a dry cake unless you just way over bake it. Try making a grilled cheese. You put mayo on each side of bread and make sure its the side that is fried. Just cook it until its crisp and browned. You will be surprised. ❤
You guys have earned everything you can do for your kids!! You have a great family and you all deserve everything you have been blessed with❤❤❤
I love seeing the different personalities of your children.Mom and Dad your doing a great job with them.
Hey baby girl, my 32yo granddaughter, came back to the Lord, heaven on earth ,I am the happiest Nana ever❤ just had to shair with you😊
Praise God 🙏 I'm so happy for you! He will leave the 99 to go after the one!!
@@robertalordagarcia9992 that's wonderful news. Praise God.
I have been watching for about 6 months. You have been growing like crazy! What a blessing you are !!
Really loved your Christmas gifts you are giving to your precious children sweetheart. You and Shane are raising wonderful children,and you are a true blessing to us all.
Good idea for Christmas. It’s about God and we are to help others. We are blessed when we give or help others. Kids these day are so spoiled and out of hand . I like what you are doing. I cut down a lot for my grands this year.
Hey Merina. First of all love your videos. You could be part of my family. Your very down to earth and humble. I can tell how much you love your kids and husband. You made a good statement about how material things for our children can out grow them within a year. I have a friend who instead of giving a lot of gifts to their kids. They made a new year renewal to take that money and plan family trips with eachother. They plan every year to go skiing are skating trying new things. They love it they have family pictures and all those memories. Im a grandmother and im so glad that we took vacations together when my child was young. Just something to think about and of course we could take those trips with you on utube. 😊 Your such a good mother and Shane is a wonderful father. Thanks for sharing your family with us each week.
I have totes full of cross stitch thread and kits but my favorite hobbies for winter are sewing and crochet, my favorite in summer in gardening and canning.
I can't believe Colton is 14!!! I remember when I first started watching you. It was right before the girls' 6th bday. ❤❤❤
Hahahahaa I'm dying when you zoomed into Jolie's face as you're trying to cut the glue. Shes like "poor mom she tried, bless her heart.".
The Miracle Whip takes place of the egg and oil you normally add to your cake. Talking about cake. If you replace the oil in a box cake with apple sauce, equal measures, you will have a moisture rich cake. So good! My grandma did this all the time. She always made the best cakes. But I wanted to let you know is this. Never sell yourself short when it comes to cooking. I heard this recently "You are not growing as a person unless you are uncomfortable." I had to think about it. Unknowingly we all set boundaries for ourselves and we get comfortable inside those boundaries. But when we grow, we are uncomfortable. Your doing an amazing job at showing your kids it's OK to try new recipes, and be uncomfortable. If the recipes do not turn out good, well you learned from that too. Saying all this your doing a great job, and I enjoy watching you grow has a wife, mother, teacher, chief, baker, farmer and over all else a chaos wrangler.
Ok, bye! ❤
Perfect Christmas gifts for the family. You put a lot of thought into picking them out.
Angel Tree gifts are going to brighten many faces Christmas morning. ❤🙏
May God Bless you all !
Glad the dogs had fun in the snow.
I truly love you all! Your kiddos are so very blessed by having you both for parents! No wonder they’re great God loving children!
Medina. You are such an inspiration. Don’t ever apologize for whaat you are able to get your children for Christmas. You plan and save for it all year. Your plan this year is ingenious. Great job of raising loving, caring children
The manners just makes it moist. I haven’t had that cake in years forgot all about the mayonnaise cake.
I know I've asked for prayers a lot and y'all always come through. I need major prayers. I have to have surgery soon to fix 2 fistulas that are connected from my bladder to my intestine. I don't know when surgery is. I'll let y'all know when surgery is. I also ask y'all to please pray for a dear friend of mine I've met through UA-cam. Her son-in-law has lost over 60 lbs in a short time and having some serious health issues. He's in the hospital waiting for surgery right this minute. Thank you in advance. God Bless.
Prayers for you Alma & your friends son-in-law! ❤🙏🏻
🙏🙏🙏
@@suemiller2099 thank you, friend. I've been getting your comments I just can't write everyone back and don't want anyone to feel left out. I hope you and your family are doing well. We're continuing to pray for y'all.
Praying for successful surgery, quick and easy recovery and strength as you go through this in Jesus Name. Praying also for this gentleman and his health issues. Jesus is the Great Physician and is All Knowing! He knows our need before we even do. Prayers for answers and solutions for him in Jesus Name. ❤❤❤❤
I am praying for you Alma. I hope your surgery goes well and a fast recovery! I am praying for your friend’s son in law as well along with his health issues! ❤️
If you like to cross stitch you should try diamond painting. The kids might like it too because they have lots of cool paintings for kids too. I would start with small ones first if you do try it. Love watching all the fun with the elves.
Mayonnaise cakes were popular back in the depression days. My mother made them all the time. It was a family favorite!
That cake became popular because it doesn’t take eggs or oil. Since mayonnaise is made of oil and eggs! We love that cake. Did you know something else was popular during that era. It’s called a water pie. But I’ve not made one of those yet. I was told it’s very good also! 😇🩷
I am asking for prayers
My son just got to Navy boot camp. When he called, he sounded so scared. Prayers for strength & motivation to push forward
Those are awesome gifts. The kiddos will love it all. 🎄🎄🎄🎄
I learned fractions from my elementary school teacher making a mayonnaise cake!! Thank you for reminding me of that great experience ❣️❣️❣️❣️
Oh goodness! Girl, I scrapbook and I am as far from organized as you can get! Lol. My husband retired Dec.31st and he started a crossstitch project that he printed off the internet. The last supper. It is large. He did it in 3 months. It is absolutely gorgeous! So much detail. I had it framed and it hangs in my living room. The back is as pretty as the front! I've never seen anyone do it so neat. I'd love to show it to you but I don't know how to show you on here. You're doing great.
I'm sorry, whoever tells you you're doing too much for your kids is wrong. You know your kids better than people watching a video and judging. If you've prayed about it and God is directing, that's what matters. You and Shane are fantastic parents. None of us are perfect. We do the best we can. I enjoy all your videos. My favorites are the DIY but I love watching the kids too and the home making.
I wanna start by saying thank you for everyone's prayers after I mentioned interviewing for a job. I got the job!! I will be working as the office manager / administrative assitant at a local church. I am so excited! Now to the video...thank you for sharing the list from the elves on how to make slime! My ten year old daughter is in her slime era and will be so excited to try this. You have sparked interest in me to try cross stitch again but doing it with plastic canvas and yarn. I used to do that with my Grammy growing up. I remember I found it calming for some reason. That cake looked so good! We are also having a small Christmas for our kids as far as gifts go. I love the ideas you gave as both my kids are big gamers as well. I feel like gamer kids can have a negative stereotype sometimes so it is refreshing to see supportive parents of gamer kids....hope that makes sense lol. Another lovely video with our besties!❤
Congratulations sweetie !!! 💞🙏🏻💞
@aimerandolph644 congratulations.
I am a Momma that buys excessive things for under the tree. It is a mix of less expensive to the more expensive items. It's a personal thing and I personally love the feel of a tree skirt hidden by the love of thoughtful gifts I have picked out for my husband and little ones. I feel like they are only little once so I do what I can to fill up that skirt! lol. It is perfectly fine to do a one gift under the tree or 20 it's up to you and your family.
Merry Christmas!
Marina oh my GOSH! YOU are doing really good. I used to do that and needle work with my grandma when I was 10 - 14 and my grandma said I was almost as good as her and she did an absolutely perfect job. So that was a big compliment from my grandma.
FYI Marina they sell like a 3 count kits and each thing on the how to ones is the set of 3 and it teaches you all the different stitches. I loved it. It had been 50 years plus since I had done this. It was so much fun. If you get the kit of 3 and then also watch the things on UA-cam that showed you also, some are better than others.
Hiya merina, what a great vlog!
Im 61yrs and what I've learnt is time goes very quickly, you have 4 beautiful children, if you want to spoil them then do it! When they are gamers it is very expensive but you want to make them happy. They are growing up, so enjoy being around them. ❤Please don't feel you have to justify what you spend, it's your money. Anyone moaning is just them trying to control you. ❤❤
I love cross stitch. I’ve been doing it for many many years. Made Christmas stocking for my two girls when they were born ( they are now 41 and 43). Made cross stitch stockings for my two grandchildren. Those stockings stay at my house for me to fill. I find it so relaxing. You’re doing great. Enjoy your new hobby. What a great gift and memories for your loved ones
I'm so very happy to hear that you have evolved into buying fewer things for Christmas. And that you have found other ways of spending or not spending money. I know God wants everyone to be a good steward of our blessings so you are definitely making Him smile Merina. God bless.
You Guys are such amazing parents ,you see the joy in your childrens eyes love you ❤
Hey Beautiful Family, your daughters face when you were doing stuff had me in stitches , she is the double of Shane 🤣
His Twin 💯
My thoughts exactly! 😂
Exactly, made me laugh!
I fell right down the Flosstube rabbit hole here on UA-cam when I got back into cross stitching! I stitched decades ago when all we had was aida cloth and DMC floss. There are so many new options out there and many free charts online. I like to be purposeful with my projects so I have been stitching smaller project turning many into pillows for dough bowl fillers. I want to stitch a couple of ornaments this year too, but I fear time will run out before I finish them as I am somewhat of a slow stitcher. I am just savoring the process. So happy to hear your daughter is enjoying this creative art form! So enjoy how you celebrate Christmas and the desire to spread joy to others. ❤
I think you’re teaching your children a great lesson. Good job. Mama!!! By the way, your hair is beautiful!
You could put a dot of paint on each white stylus like the blue and red so each child will be able to locate their stylus. Love from your virtual grandmother ❤🎉
No no no not grandma here IT'S NANA ( it's spoken like then end of banana ) lol . Merina i think us elders speak with our hearts not to be harsh or taken mean. Sorry if I have ever come across that way. I have 5 grands that we kinda see long story but leaving it in God's hands ( you taught me tooo. Not that I don't believe just got angry with. Perhaps the way I was raised too) thank you for though. You are a youngen with a ol' soul. Truly a blessing in many of our lives. Both you and Shane plus Nany .... anyways love your honestly and thr way you are teaching your including the kids in the angel tree, we did that and I hope to take our grand kiddo out to pick one for her late brother and her self. Thank you happy holiday's Tori and fam
Blessing's from Tampa Florida love y'all marrychirstmas ❤
I used to cross stitch and as I got older I haven’t done it in years. I done a huge Bass for my hubby . He loves fishing. Still have that one. That’s a wonderful idea as far as the Christmas gifts , that is a huge life lesson. Always a blessing when you give. ❤🌲
You are doing a great job with the cross stitching gift for Shane. Your daughter did a great job with her gingerbread cross stitch project. It's really sweet that you two are bonding and making memories with cross stitching. That mayo cake didn't look bad at all. It was hilarious seeing your kids' reactions when you told them that the cake had mayo in it. I hope that you and your family are doing well ☺️♥️
God Bless!
lol merina the side eye from your daughter when you dropped the slime tub was hilarious 😂😂😂
Idk if you plan to film the kiddos opening their presents, but I’d love to see their reactions to the wonderful gifts!
Mayonnaise cakes are just eggs and oil subtracted from cake. I have always used mayo if I did not have eggs or oil in my cakes. You can also use applesauce in place of oil.
Cross Stich is a great way to keep busy and I love doing it and I also love to embroider. I love what you have done with this
You did great on the gifts! They will love everything!
😢
My dad was the artist in my family..but my 8th grade teacher came into our math class a couple of days before Christmas...she had bought us all crosstitching kits...omg!! I instantly fell completely in love...she said to have all stitches going one way...then come back and cross them..(unless its a like 2 or 3 blocks) they all need to be going the sames way...as you get better you will go faster..then you will be doing dishtowels, pillow cases, pillows..😂 it is so much fun...time consuming....use 2 strands at a time..so the image is thick...but not too thick...and make sure you you use the crosstitching needle..it has the dull end...but now I mostly do diamond painting!! I love it!!
Lived your video.❤ I have watched you since the beginning of your Utube channel. U my dear R one VERY SPECIAL PERSON. U have always had the compassion in your soul. I'm 75 yrs old. I knew the first time I watched the channel that U were one special lady. When God created you, he really broke the mold.❤❤ God bless you & your family. Tell Nanny, hello & God bless. 🥰🥰😍😍
The only hobby I have that I have stayed with is crochet. I crochet all the time. Sitting watching your show, I am crocheting. I am making my mom a pocket shawl for Christmas.
Shane.....the song with the "golden brown, upside down, applesauce cake is from The Walton's Christmas Album. Jason sings it to his mama.
I thought she was going have vlog for Christmas but she did everything together!!
There you go thinking again. Being that you have non stop complaints I have to wonder why you keep watching?
Too fun, Merina! I used to cross stitch a lot when I was younger. I don't know that i could do it now, though. I love your kiddos' gifts. I hope y'all have an amazing weekend! 💜
I got an advent calendar from Temu for $2.98 for my grandblessings. Each day you open a box, and there are puzzle pieces you build as family. Each day, you add to the puzzle. The last day puzzle will be finished. There is a total of 1008 pieces. They have on amazon as well but double price.
I watched this during lunch and just made my day. Love the kids faces when they found out there was mayo in the cake.
I'm literally so happy that you posted a video tonight so I have something to listen to as I drive home from work not to mention I'm overly concerned about the whole alien thing so it's taking my mind slightly off of it love you girl
I think whatever people can do is awesome! Everybody has different budgets and lives and anything you can get your kids, is going to be great. And thank you for reminding people that sometimes we can and sometimes we can’t and that is okay. ❤
Thank you for sharing this video. I always enjoy watching your family interact with each other. The kids' reaction to the cake was priceless. (Especially Colton's, when he liked it until he realized that there was mayonnaise in it...)
The gifts you have selected for them this year will be a big hit, I'm sure. Especially the gift of giving. I'm pretty sure the gift of giving will be the longest lasting and most remembered gift for all of them.
Good luck with your cross-stitch gift. I'm sure it will be very special. I look forward to seeing it once it is completed and given to Shane.
God Bless.❤
Hey kiddo, if you put the material in the hoop tighter it will be easier to stitch and turn out way better!!
If I were there,I would have said to take the cap off and use a chop stick to scrape the bottom of the bottle. But you improvised and looked like all had a good time! DEB IN GA.
Cross stitch is great. It can be as simple or as complicated as you like. Similar on expense. Very beginner friendly but with time, you can enjoy seeing your improvement. Also if you are enjoying doing it, don't let anyone criticize your work.
Always love all of your videos and seeing your children you and Shane are wonderful parents and really no the meaning of love for your children ❤
Yay. One TN crafter to another. I taught myself to crochet from a UA-cam video. I made a Christmas Afgan. I wish I could put a pic on here for you to see it.
I am left handed & never could learn to crotchet. Ugh! But I paint & cross stitch
@carolwilder2289 @carolwilder2289 well. I like to do something all the time. So I do things at night. I wish I could show ppl the afgan it turned out great it looks like plaid like really hard but so easy. This is the video link for the afgan. I promise super easy. My husband told it looks like one of those woven potholder. Lol. Now I can't unsee it. But I am still loving it and snuggling under it on this cold TN day. ua-cam.com/video/7DXl2_3M_D4/v-deo.htmlsi=8EySfEySMZTtSIY7
Oh my goodness, I’m sitting here watching “The Blind.” The guy playing Phil Roberson reminds me of Shane (the parts where Phil is nice). When the guy turns his head, it looks just like Shane! What an awesome movie of how someone was won to Christ and it changed EVERYTHING! ❤ you all! Are you getting any snow?
19 minutes in. I made a cross stich ornament in one of my elementary school classes. 4th/5th grade. it was a Christmas party. PTA Mom's came in, showed us the project. Had fun games treats etc. It was an amazing time. I remember that ornament that I made with their instruction. It didn't take long and it turned out so good. I wish I had it still. I have often thought about taking that hobby up. :) Oh yeah Mayonnaise cake, it's basically chocolate cake. The name sounds awful, but it's actually really good. old school recipe.
My grandmother used to make mayonnaise cake and now I make it. I think it is one of the best tasting chocolate cakes there is! Lol. It's never dry! You have to try it with some peanut butter icing! So good!
I used to cross stitch all the time and I would enter them into the fair. I loved it then my eyes went bad I can’t see good enough to cross stitch. I do miss it so keep us updated so I can live through you vicariously. lol.
Love your family.. My grandson is always wanting to make slime.
That mayonnaise cake looked good.
Your kids are gonna love what they got for Christmas. You are doing so well in teaching them the right values. Giving is better than receiving ❤😊
Welcome to the wonderful world of cross-stitch. Tucking the stitches in behind the back is just fine. Your piece is great & something to be proud of as you progress. Kindest regards from a fellow cross-stitcher who is picking back an entire row of stitching done the wrong way. LOL It happens. 😁 Cross-stitch can be any time for any reasons. 👍
Love the look your daughter gave when you told her about the mayo in the cake. Priceless! Good job! Great video! Bless you all! 🥰👍💜💙💜💙💜
I am so proud of both of you. I went and ordered a kit to do over the holidays. lol. I used to cross stitch a long time ago.
Great video I only have 1 little one and that’s my great granddaughter I’m getting her baby alive with a target grocery basket it’s bright red I’ve been told by my heart and kidney drs this will be. My last holiday season on this earth which means I’ll be with my Saviour 😊 I think I’ll be here till Jesus calls me home.
Lovenhugz from the capital city of Illinois ❤
Prayers ascending for you..the doctors don't always know..was a nurse over 40 years🙏 🙏🙏 May you be blessed always 🙌 Enjoy your Little One this season ❤
@pammpowers3149 praying for you. Please don't believe everything doctors say. I'm here because my mom didn't give up on trying for healthy kids. She had 4 miscarriages before my brother, then 3 in-between us.
I've stitched for 32 years and it calms my brain.
The mayonnaise is just a replacement for the vegetable oil. It moistens the cake. We make it all the time
In a cake that uses mayonnaise. That is used as the oil or butter in a cake. You dont taste it when the cake is baked. My little sister (who is almost 59 now) does the most beautiful counted cross stitch. She made me a picture of a noahs ark with all the animals 2x2. Its so pretty. She had it matted and framed under glass for me. I have it hung up in my family room. Still love it so much. Must have taken hours and hours and hours. Ive done pretty much all needlework there is. As i love crafts, always have. I need to start knitting again. Merry Christmas everyone!
Shane that song is from the Walton’s. I have the Walton’s Christmas cd and they sang that song.. loved watching the Walton’s. Love you guys..
Make sure when you work on the cross stitch, you are working in very good light. It will help against eye strain. You are doing a really good job!❤🎉
I like using the mayo instead of the miracle whip. That cake was a staple growing up!
I just started the exact same hobby, I’m stitching a Christmas village ❤❤❤ so fun.
Girl, I been cross-stitching for years, and I still mess up (and no I don't take it all out and fix it either, I work around it! LOL) And you look like you're FAST at it - that's a LOT done in less than a day!!! Especially ur first or second one, wow! Cross-stitching can be very relaxing :)
Oh and a tip on the thread twisting/tangling that my mom taught me... if ur startin to have troubles with ur thread, just let go of the needle and let it dangle, and it untwists the thread itself :)
You can also thread ur one thread thru, and THEN fold it in half, and it keeps the thread from falling out of the needle :) (just put a knot on the loose ends)
I would love one of your handmade ornaments for my tree! ❤️ I collect Christmas Ornaments. Your cross stitching looks good! You should also try diamond painting, it is so much fun & relaxing!
Hey Marina. Glad to see your taking up the hobby of crossstitch. Being an avid stitcher I have a piece of advice if you take your needle down in the hole your loop will be on the top then feed your needle through the loop and the bring it back down through the same hole Hope that helps. Also there are you tube videos called floss tubes to help you. You should see some of the gorgeous work people do. Love your channel
Great gifts for the kids , I'm sure they will love them.
Good evening, Marina just wanted to tell you that I went and bought the candy cane candle from Walmart and I love it. It makes the whole house smell wonderful hope that you and the family are doing well and I hope that your Grammy is doing well and also love to the fur babies😀
I looked everywhere for that thing couldn't find it
Last year’s gifts were amazing because she give a lot good ideas! This year was boring!!!
You need to try Peanut Butter Balls they are so easy but VERY addictive.
▢ 1.5 cup creamy peanut butter
▢ 9 Tbsp salted butter softened
▢ 3 cup powdered sugar
▢ 1 pkg of chocolate bark
Combine butter, peanut butter and powdered sugar into a “dough” and roll into balls. Place in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up. Melt Chocolate bark according to instructions. Dip balls into chocolate and place in the fridge. Try to save some for others. It is so hard not to keep eating them.
The key to cross stitching is to make sure all of your stitches are going in the same direction... If you start off with your first discharge going from left to right and your top stitch goes from right to left you must do ALL in the same direction
When you do cross-stitch you need to keep the material as tight as a drum to make a better job of it. Live your tip on how to do the knot. I don't know why I never thought of it. It looks good
Great vlog. Don’t ever apologize for why or how you give to your kids. You work hard and that’s your business. I do think the older they get, the fewer actual presents they get just mostly because of the price point. Love the Angel Tree giving. Bless you, Miss Linda 🙏🏻🎄🙏🏻🎄