by Amanda Barnard | Jan 7, 2022 | Everything Else
The day is almost over, here where I l live and it’s time for me to do a little reflecting. I made a huge pot of soup yesterday, so I would have it to eat throughout today. My intentions have failed today, or that is sure the way it feels to me.
Later in the afternoon, I did wind up eating a little bit of the soup, but had no original plans to eat out. However, the Trio, complete with a veggie sandwich, loaded potato soup, and Caesar salad, from Nanny Goats did hit the spot. I also was not successful in passing up the mini candy bars.
On top of all that, I joined a Healthy Wage Challenge to get back on track with my “Fit and Fabulous by 50” goals. I’ll have to elaborate more on that soon! I have been recruiting for that as well.
For now, I will know that tomorrow is a new day. A fresh start is definitely in order. More organization and some list completions will also be expected.
I love cheering you on with your journey. Thanks for rooting for me too!
by Amanda Barnard | Jan 6, 2022 | Everything Else, Faith, Family
Today is my son, Dalton’s birthday! In my quest of being intentional, Brad and I are going to take him to lunch! I would love for you to meet him!
What can I say about Dalton, from “mom’s perspective”? So many things! Dalton is a handsome guy and single (wink, wink)! He is extremely responsible. A self taught, Graphic Designer, at the top of his field!
If you are looking for funny and always enthusiastic, look no further. I like to think he has taken some ques from his momma in the projection of positivity! If there is a choice, the glass is always half full!
Creativity oozes from every fiber of his being. Need action? This is your guy! Definitely a problem-solver!
He is a sports car enthusiast, has moved into the realm of motorcycles, and owns his home. Now, I am working on pulling him into the wonderful world of Jeeps! This momma wasn’t too excited about the motorcycle, but he proved his maturity. Safety class, prior to purchase? CHECK!
I could go on and on, BUT today I am anticipating our lunch date! So I’ll leave you with a few of my favorite pics.

by Amanda Barnard | Jan 5, 2022 | Everything Else, Jeeps on the Rock
This post wont be long today, but I want to tell you about a Jeep Meet! What is this, you say? A group of jeep-enthusiasts coming together to maybe have dinner or to go wheeling.
There are a lot of Jeep groups out there. Many have planned events throughout each month. Some even arrange fun times one time every week.
We have been encouraging our kids to be involved and even gotten our grandbabies involved. Our oldest little princess is now 5 years old. She had gotten very vocal about wanting to join in the festivities!
SPREAD SOME CHEER
Tonight we will be hanging with a few groups together around a table of food. I also have a bag of ducks for Alyssa to spread some ducky-love. But that is a post for another time.
I want all of my grandbabies to enjoy time spent with Mimi and Poppy. I want them to learn what it means to love intentionally – even with Jeeps and Tacos!

by Amanda Barnard | Jan 4, 2022 | Everything Else, Faith, Motivation
Do you think accountability as a blessing? Let’s look, together, at the meaning of the word. Merriam-Webster‘s dictionary defines “accountability” as –especially : an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one’s actions.
Now truly, there are some people that may look at having someone to be accountable to as a curse. But the reality is, to be a productive member of society requires us to not go about life freely with no boundaries. We need guidelines to live by.
HAVE YOU FALLEN INTO THE TRAP?
I believe we all have an obligation to ourselves and those around us to be responsible. But, oh! How easy it is to fall into the traps of lazy or being undisciplined. I was complaining to myself about me last night regarding this very thing!
Colossians 3:23 says, “Put your heart and soul into every activity you do, as though you are doing it for the Lord himself and not merely for others.” Now I don’t know about you, but I sure do not want to be accused of ‘putting my heart and soul’ into being lazy!
And Ecclesiastes 9:10 reminds us to do everything with all of our might! Regarding this scripture, I sure don’t want to be lazy nor undisciplined with ‘all my might’. If I am going to work at something, I sure want it to accomplish something amazing!
Isn’t it interesting how being accountable encourages us to be the best version of ourselves? I don’t want anyone viewing me as lazy, especially Jesus who has done so much for me! I want to be the person that the Bible talks about. The one that Jesus is proud of!
STAND OUT
I want my adoration and honor for Him to show! Not just to others, but to Jesus. And it isn’t because of what HE does for me. But because of who HE is!
Being accountable, also means being correctable. An irresponsible person many times will get disgruntled at the mere mention of reformation. But the Word of God tells us that God corrects and disciplines those HE loves! (Proverbs 3:12, Hebrews 12:6)
So while it may not feel like it is our good fortune at the moment, having accountability is such a blessing. Because it is for HIS great love for us!
What are some benefits you have experienced by having someone (or something) to hold you accountable? Drop me a line! I would love to hear from you!
by Amanda Barnard | Jan 3, 2022 | Faith, Family, Motivation
Yesterday, I met with frustration. This meeting was completely unpleasant. Of course, I’m not sure who would enjoy such an encounter.
It happened on my pursuit of being intentional with family. Defining expectations can be a daunting feat, unless nipped in the beginning. A wise person once told me that it was much easier to tighten reins than it is to loosen them.
LIKE A SHIP WITHOUT A SAIL…..
What a profound statement?! If the requirements are known ahead of time, boundaries have a place. With the unknown, chaos rules.
There is no God in chaos. The Bible tells us that God isn’t part of disorder, but he is all about peace. (1 Corinthians 14:33) Additionally, Proverbs 11:14 says, “People lose their way without wise leadership.”
So today, prayer thrives. Growing up, I was always intrigued with the story of Solomon. This man that asked God for wisdom. God granted his request and gave him riches untold.
I don’t need the riches untold, but I sure need the wisdom!
So pray and agree with me, that I will handle all things well and with much wisdom. What can I agree in prayer for you about? Let me know!