Sharri's Snapzshotz

So Excited!

2012-02-18T05:22:00.000-05:00

The item above-a zojirushi bread machine-has been on my wish list for at least

5+years!

But alas, it was out of my price range! :(

I have had several other one paddle breadmakers-but, I wear out the paddles...

that's why I wanted this one-it is more powerful and has 2 paddles!

Guess what!? I found a lady on craigslist selling one of these for a great price-and,

I had Christmas $$ from my Mom!

So...this is now mine!

I have used it several times already and LOVE IT!

It was worth waiting for!

God has been so good to me-He so often gives me the desires of my heart!

Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

Fun little recipe

2012-02-17T13:14:00.000-05:00

We tried these mini pizza bites the other night--they were so yummy!

basically you just take a tube of refrigerated biscuit dough, & cut each biscuit into 4 pieces.
Roll them into balls, then roll out w/rolling pin on floured surface
and insert in greased mini-muffin pans.
(ours made 32)
place a piece of pepperoni in the bottom of each cup
spoon a little sauce on top of that
sprinkle with parmesan cheese
top with shredded cheese
bake at 375 for about 10 min

We did make some plain-skipping the pepperoni step.

You could also use canadian bacon, sausage etc... in place of the pepperoni.

Enjoy!

2012-02-17T11:14:00.000-05:00

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. Ps. 100:4

We have been praying fervently for our friend Kevin (shown here on right) who is battling leukemia.

Yesterday, God showed Himself mighty by allowing a successful bone marrow transplant that Kevin

received from his older brother Daniel (shown on left).

We are still asking everyone to pray for the details following the transplant.

That all the leukemia cells are dead
That no infection will set in
That he won't have a relapse
That the bone marrow will take/work
That the Lord would protect Kevin, keep him healthy, heal him that others will see what the Lord has done and glorify Him.

Thank you Lord for hearing our prayers, please continue to keep this young one in Your tender care.

That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works. Ps. 26:7

Winter Pastime

2012-01-28T21:45:00.001-05:00

Anyone who knows me well, knows that I love all 4 seasons that we enjoy here in Delaware...

Even the winter time!

Some people dread it, but not me! When I think of winter, I think of cozy days (or nights) by the fire, beautiful white snow, and extra time for reading!

A friend mentioned the book Living Water to Phil and I over dinner one night last week.

I ordered it from the library, opened it today and read some of it--then, read some of it to Phil....

and now we're thinking that we may just read it aloud as a family.

The few passages I read were very moving and convicting.

They addressed the lack of repentance being preached in churches today...and the lack of truly

dying to self and giving our entire lives over the the Lord.

I think this will be a difficult read (ouch) but, a much needed one.

Have you read this book? I'd love to hear your feedback if you have.

And, I'd love to hear what you're currently reading!

Blessings to you and yours!

Sharri

Snow

2012-01-26T09:37:00.000-05:00

Much to our delight we got a little snow over the weekend!

We were only supposed to get a coating, but we did get a little bit more than that...

These birds were happy to see feed in the feeder!

I loved the way these blackbirds were all "decorating the tree" next door :)

I hope we have more snow before the winter is out!

Sprucing Up

2012-01-25T05:13:00.002-05:00

Friday night we had our first company in since my illness-and we had some

sprucing up to do!

Dear friends sent me this arrangement while i was recovering...and I couldn't bear to

toss it out because it had held up so well!

So, I added a few Valentine's hearts to it :)

I found these adorable red foil heart cutouts, and hung them

from my snow white valance

Found a really cute table cloth and napkins to match at a great discount

We had so much fun fellowshiping--we forgot to take pics!

But, our guests brought me these gorgeous roses--I love them!

They smell so good too!

I'm thankful for friends!

View at Your Own Risk

2012-01-24T15:03:00.000-05:00

It was cold outside the other day...and it gave me the "willies" for Cinnamon Rolls

Bri helped me with the rolling up and the cutting (using dental floss)

(You can tell she loves that part!)

We sprinkled pecans in the pan, then put the cut rolls on top

this is what they looked like after baking

then, they looked like this when we turned them out

Bri's fav part of Cinnamon Rolls? LOTS of icing--she took care of that part too

They smelled wonderful while baking...and tasted GREAT!

funny, I looked back and we made this around this time last year too

click here to see that post

it includes the recipe

Wonderful Mother/Daughter Investment

2012-01-21T18:33:00.000-05:00

I have the privilege of spending most of my weekday mornings reading this book aloud with

my young adult daughter Briana.

(She received it for Christmas)

Our discussions have been soooo good since we've started it!

Although we do not have a large family, we wish we did!

And, we would like for our children to allow God

to choose their family size when they get married

and hopefully have large families themselves.

Although we haven't finished it, I couldn't wait to tell you about this book!

The first portion of the book is about God's plan for wives and mothers

with biblical references and lots of food for thought.

So far I have had lots of conviction while reading it--and expect that I'll have more yet!

This book is not just about how to be organized, etc...(although that's part of it)

it is about the attitudes of the heart,

and the yielding of ourselves to God's plan.

It's very much worth the investment of time to read it,

and would be helpful for any wife, mother, or daughter.

(Made so much more enjoyable because I share it with my daughter!)

I wish the same for you!

In case you want to know where to order, it is available at Vision Forum.

Blessings!

Everyday Happenings

2012-01-19T20:31:00.000-05:00

What have we been up to these days??

Well, I have a few snapshots to share to show you some of them...

we've been enjoying the adorable snowman made for us by our Pastor's sweet family

(I collect snowman and he's a fav!)

Bri bought a few gifts for a sweet friend of hers...

and, Phil and I attended a fun 40th b-day party for a dear friend

The weather turned a bit colder and I cooked up a big pot of Chicken Corn Chowder...

I have more to share and post, but alas, they aren't downloaded yet! :)

"When you look at your life, the greatest happinesses are family happinesses."

~ J. Brothers

O Love That Will Not Let Me Go

2012-01-18T12:49:00.000-05:00

I heard this song this morning on the radio and it really blessed me!

O Love That Will Not Let Me Go

O Love that will not let me go,
I rest my weary soul in thee;
I give thee back the life I owe,
That in thine ocean depths its flow
May richer, fuller be.

O light that followest all my way,
I yield my flickering torch to thee;
My heart restores its borrowed ray,
That in thy sunshine’s blaze its day
May brighter, fairer be.

O Joy that seekest me through pain,
I cannot close my heart to thee;
I trace the rainbow through the rain,
And feel the promise is not vain,
That morn shall tearless be.

O Cross that liftest up my head,
I dare not ask to fly from thee;
I lay in dust life’s glory dead,
And from the ground there blossoms red
Life that shall endless be.

Comparison or Contentment?

2012-01-18T00:25:00.001-05:00

photo credit

I saw this quote today...

Comparison is the enemy of Contentment

And the first thing I thought was...Ouch!

I am usually a contented person in many ways. But then...I should be!

After all, I have a comfortable home, lovely family, my husband provides for us well...

I have many dear friends, plenty of food on the table--enough to share...

But, then recently I got cancer.

I had a score of Dr. appointments, tests, and scary moments...

There was surgery, pain, and recovery...

Helplessness, weakness, and confinement...

I have to admit, I wasn't always content.

But I am choosing to be today. And I will commit to choose to be tomorrow.

Our lives are made up of choices every day. Good ones, and bad ones.

An elder from our church said on Sunday that we must choose to be happy, and choose

to serve Christ by being happy.

It is so true!

And so is choosing contentment.

I feel that when I choose not to be content, I am not trusting in God.

I want to please God by having a contented spirit, and by fully putting my trust in Him.

photo credit

Another post I did on Contentment is here

Insightful Devotion

2012-01-12T09:44:00.000-05:00

photo credit

My friend Trish shared this on facebook-her sweet son Kevin has leukemia

This was meaningful to me, and I thought I would share it

Dear Friend,

When the storms of life hit, we are often tempted to run for cover. When they continue indefinitely, we struggle to find encouragement. When the rain and the wind gather strength until they turn into what seems to be a hurricane, we find ourselves saying, "I can't do this any longer," the truth is this: we can't, but God can.
...
He is the only One who can help us victoriously fight through the battles of life. Nothing can provide the type of strength that He provides, especially when we feel overwhelmed and discouraged. He stands beside us, and He never retreats.

Daniel never worried about being cast into the lion's den. He knew that the Lord would provide the help and protection he needed to make it through the night. Some of the people who read these words are fighting a battle with a life-threatening disease. It is an unseen enemy from a human standpoint but not from God's. He knows exactly what we are facing and how it is affecting our lives.

There is an incredible sense of peace that comes from learning how to rest in the Lord and allow Him to take care of your troubles. This does not mean that you abandon the fight and just give up trying. It means that you shift the focus of your effort from yourself to God. This is where the true victory is gained.

The apostle Paul faced many life-threatening situations. At one point, he debated whether it was better to ask God to allow him to go home to heaven where he would have unending peace and glory in the presence of Christ or to continue living the earthly life God had given him. Paul chose the latter. As much as he longed to see the Lord in heaven, he loved having the opportunity here to tell others about God's unending, unconditional love and forgiveness.

The suffering you face today is directly related to the joy you will experience in the future.

For His Kingdom,

Tony Evans

New Year

2012-01-03T22:57:00.000-05:00

Well, our Christmas vacation is over now, and it's a New Year!

I'm healing up from my surgery very well, and am thankful for that.

We had a quiet Christmas and New Year as I was still recuperating...but, it was lovely!

God has been very good!

I hope that you had a lovely family time--as we did--and that your New Year is a blessed one!

Update

2011-12-18T18:23:00.000-05:00

Hello Dear Ones,
I hope that you are all well and full of joy today!

I wanted to pop in with a quick update, and prayer request...
My recovery from the surgery has been amazing--God made our bodies w/the amazing ability to heal so well! The only set-backs I suffered were not surgery related. I have had a lot of intestinal difficulties, and so now they are suspecting that I may have lymphoma in my colon.
I of course am praying against this, and ask you to join me in that!

My wonderful church family and other friends have been taking great care of us with meals! And I am blessed beyond words by the meals, cards, flowers, fruit, calls and prayers!
My mother has been the very best of nurses--I am so thankful for her...and for my husband and children who have pitched in, waiting on me hand and foot!
I am walking daily again--although I can only go a partial distance, I have picked up my pace quite a bit over the last week! My mom, son, or husband accompany me when I go.

This Tues. I will go to the oncologist for the biopsy report, and Wed. to the surgeon to get the staples removed. (I will find out then when they can do the colonoscopy)...

I so much appreciate your prayers on my behalf, and hope you will continue to do so--we're not at the end of this thing yet!
Most gratefully yours,

Sharri

Almost Time...

2011-12-05T21:38:00.000-05:00

My times are in thy hand: Psalm 31:15a

Well, I have spent the last couple of weeks busily preparing for my upcoming surgery on Wednesday.

I had about 2 weeks to get my Christmas shopping done and wrapped, cards out, and decorations up.

It was just enough time!

(Plus, I had excellent help!)

And, it kept me busy, and my mind off of things...

It also made me think about TIME.

We think we're in control of it, when actually, all of it is in God's hands.

It is a lesson I have learned these last few weeks....that all is in God's control

And, that's a good thing!

When you face something like cancer, it puts so many things in perspective.

Like...what's really important.

Like... am I spending enough time in the Word, and in prayer?

Is my focus on the Lord-and His timing---or, is it on mine?

I'm learning, and growing through this whole situation, and I covet your prayers.

Specifically: That they can remove the spleen and no further treatment is required.

And, that I will have a speedy recovery from the surgery.

May God get all the glory!

Our Daily Bread

2011-12-01T00:54:00.000-05:00

I loved November 30th Our Daily Bread by David C. McCasland and thought I would post it here:

On November 24, 1971, a man known today as D. B. Cooper hijacked a commercial flight between Portland and Seattle by threatening to blow up the plane unless he received $200,000. After landing to receive a ransom, he ordered the plane back into the air. Then the rear stairs of the 727 aircraft were lowered, and he parachuted into the night. He was never captured, and the case is still unsolved. This act hastened the age of airport security in which trust and confidence have been replaced by suspicion and fear. What he did affected us all.
The Bible describes two actions that changed the world in a far more significant way. Through Adam’s choice, sin and death entered the world, “and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned” (Rom. 5:12). But through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, God provided a remedy for the results of sin. “Through one man’s [Adam’s] offense judgment came to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man’s [Christ’s] righteous act the free gift came to all men, resulting in justification of life” (v.18).
Christ did what no one else could do when He broke the power of sin and death by His resurrection. He offers forgiveness and eternal life to all who will accept His gift. And for that, we thank Him with all our hearts.

When Adam sinned, death spread to all—
One act condemned the human race—
But Jesus’ death upon the cross
Provides mankind God’s saving grace. —Sper

The cross of Christ can cure the condemnation of Adam’s choice.

Vision Forum December Sale & Free Shipping Code

2011-11-28T22:54:00.001-05:00

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Offers end at midnight on Friday, December 2, 2011 (CST).

Changes

2011-11-20T05:08:00.000-05:00

photo credit Briana Faye

Looking at this lovely fall picture, it reminds me of changes. Summer changed into fall, which

causes us to close pools, rake leaves, get out winter clothes, gather firewood, and put away lawn furniture...

at our house my husband also cleaned out the chimney, & cleaned out the garden...

Thanksgiving preparations are in full swing (thanks to my precious mom and daughter),

and my dear son is putting up our outdoor Christmas lights while the weather is still good

I personally have other changes that await me...due to a recent diagnosis of what they believe

is lymphoma, I am about to have the biggest change of my life...

for certain I will enter into life without a spleen...which may affect my future health for the rest of my life...

and I don't know what awaits me as far as treatments (chemo etc...)

But one thing I do know...although my life circumstances change, my God doesn't

For I am the LORD, I change not; Malachi 3:6

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. Hebrews 13:8

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. James 1:17

And so I am thankful today that I have an unchangeable God that walks with me through

the changes I experience on earth.

Thinking of this brings to mind the lyrics of this great hymn:

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.

Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!
Have a blessed Lord's Day

and, cling to Him during your changes too!

20% off Everything at Vision Forum!

2011-11-15T12:53:00.002-05:00

Great sale 20% off EVERYTHING at Vision Forum!
Please order through my blog--either by clicking above or at right on my affiliate button--I'd appreciate that!

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Get your Christmas shopping done!

Hall of Fame

2011-11-08T17:42:00.000-05:00

Some of you may know that I have been having some major health issues recently...

And, as a result, I created a Hall of Fame!

My dear, sweet, Prayer Warrior friends & family have sent me flowers, apples,

fruit, fruit salad, cards, and given me phone calls.

I am so blessed by it, I have entered them in the Hall of Fame!

Each person who prays, writes, and cares just blesses me so much, and

I just wanted to express my gratefulness!

The Lord is hearing the prayers of His saints and is answering.

My life is being blessed so much! :0)

And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.
Rev. 5:8

Crazy Kids!

2011-10-26T05:31:00.000-04:00

Recently our kids went to a party w/lots of their friends...

They got the ~~insane~~ inspired idea to "stuff our VW bug"

They fit as many people as they could in our poor little beetle!

Their GRAND TOTAL was....

15!

lol

only the young! :)

Lord's Day Thoughts

2011-10-23T17:34:00.000-04:00

Someone sent me this picture this week, and I've had this song on my heart ever since. It is particularly meaningful to me right now. Hope it blesses you too.

Under His Wings

By William O. Cushing, 1823-1902
He shall cover thee with His feathers,
and under His wings shalt thou trust . . .
-Psalm 91:4

Under His wings I am safely abiding,
Tho the night deepens and tempests are wild;
Still I can trust Him—I know He will keep me,
He has redeemed me and I am His child.

Under His wings, under His wings,
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.

Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow!
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort and there I am blest.

Under His wings, under His wings,
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.

Under His wings, O what precious enjoyment!
There will I hide till life’s trials are o’er;
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me,
Resting in Jesus I’m safe evermore.

Under His wings, under His wings,
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.

Home Organization Notebook

2011-10-17T04:36:00.001-04:00

Back in 2007, my dear friend Marci made me one of the best gifts ever for my

birthday!

She handpainted this lovely notebook for me!

And, it's beauty is not its only feature!

I have tabs in it to keep a lot of my organizational pages all together in one place

The one above is a booklist page

This one is for prayer--there are also pages for prayer lists behind this one

These pages are "To Do Lists"

I can jot down things I need to do for the day

This one is good for an overall of what I need to do for the day/week/month etc...

This master shopping list is kept in a plastic sleeve that I can mark on

and also wipe off when I want to start a new list

This is another list that is in there that I can use to jot down items

needed at the store

I love this sheet--it is a list of menu items for "company"

I have them listed per menu item: Main Dish, Side Dish, Dessert etc...

I keep some of the recipes on sheets behind this.

I love the reminder to be faithful in the basics--I need that from time to time!

What a lovely and practical gift!

I was using it today, and thought I'd do a little post on it.

Hope it gave you some ideas too!

Blessings!

Fall Creativity

2011-10-15T13:45:00.002-04:00

Bri has been using her art-gifting to make these neat fall creations...

She started w/plain pumpkins, added some wording...

some pretty dried flowers...

and these little pumpkins turned out so adorable!

A sweet friend of ours let her sell them through her beauty salon

(thanks Lydia!)

I love seeing my daughter use her talents!

May the Lord bless you Briana!

Busy baking day etc...

2011-10-14T20:41:00.000-04:00

Bri gave me a big helping hand on Thursday as we had a baking day

Above she puts the finishing touches on Applesauce Gingerbread

We used our new Tropical Traditions shortening--we love it!!!

It's the best I've ever used.

Bri's been wanting Banana Bread...she holds the loaf she just took out of the oven

It turned out sooo delicious!

After we got the baking done, we hopped to reorganizing this cabinet

(This is the only food storage I have in my kitchen cabinets)

I should have taken a "before"--it was a mess! lol

With this cooler weather, I hope to be getting more organizing done!

I want it done before the holidays come--which will be sooo soon!

What are you up to this week?

To every thing there is a season...even for being sick

2011-10-11T15:15:00.000-04:00

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
Ecclesiastes 3:1

And this was my season to be sick.

I rarely get sick like this, and that is often hard for me to "knuckle under to"...

but this time, instead, I tried to count my blessings...

My comfy home to shelter me while I'm sick
My lovely daughter to keep the house running while I"m "down"
My responsible son who does everything that is needed w/o being asked
My sweet husband who is compassionate and caring
My wonderful Mom who brings me chicken noodle soup
I have no "outside job" to pressure me to return to work
I have friends who pray for me
I had lots of extra time to pray

I have to admit that I hope this season for being sick is coming to a close, but I am thankful for this season as I know God uses it for my good.

Photography Feature by Briana

2011-10-03T15:40:00.000-04:00

For those of you who don't know her, my daughter Briana is a talented photographer and artist.

She is currently taking a photography class at our local community college, and had to

take several pictures for assignments.

I asked her if I could do a post using her class assignment photos and she didn't

mind a bit!

A lot of these are maybe a little different than normal angles etc...

she shot per assignment info

Enjoy looking through her lens!

Thanks Bri for letting me share!

An Add On...

2011-09-29T04:40:00.000-04:00

I posted earlier about my Special Day but,

I thought I'd do an add on now that I downloaded some

more pics!

Above, lovely flowers from my thoughtful husband!

I was able to purchase this Vera Bradley bag with the 40% off sale, $20 b-day coupon, and b-day $ from

my Mom! (thanks Mom!)

The kids and my sweet husband bought me the darling matching wallet!

And, my sweet friend sent me a big surprise for my birthday!

This really adorable snowman appetizer server! Isn't it the cutest!?

(She knows me well--I LOVE Snowmen!)

Thanks Marci!

Just wanted to share these few pics of my B-day goodies with you! :)

Lots of blessings!

Apple Time!

2011-09-28T11:40:00.000-04:00

There's some excitement around here because of the yield our two little apple

trees are giving us this year!

These Stayman's won't be ready for a couple of weeks-but, it looks promising!

We even propped up the branches to keep them from breaking...

it's also amazing to us that we didn't lose branches and apples during Hurricane Irene!

Here's our other tree, it is a Golden Delicious

This will be the first year we harvested any apples from it!

Some of them were a little misshapen, and some had spots, but

they were easily cut off!

I made applesauce from them--and it tasted sooo goood!

Having the apples and making the applesauce is one of the things that

makes it feel like "Fall" around here...

how about you?

Are getting in the mood for Fall?

The 2011 Vision Forum "Kit & Kaboodle" Collection- 3 day sale

2011-09-27T13:08:00.000-04:00

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The Biblical Theology of Miscarriage

History Gives Our Children Hope

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How Important Are Educational Choices?

What It Means to Be Noble

Live vs. Death: How Christians Should Respond When There’s Pressure to “Pull the Plug” on Grandpa

Finishing Well: Imperfect Men Who Rallied to Leave Lasting Legacies (4 CDs)

CPS vs. The Family: The State of Parental Rights

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THANKS!

Special Days

2011-09-23T11:30:00.000-04:00

Our lives have been busy ones lately as we try to adjust to a new schedule and have

lots of new things added to our days.

But, we took time in the midst of it all to have some special celebrations!

Yep, it was my birthday!

My family spoiled me all weekend with lots of special gifts, flowers, meals and cards. :)

I felt very pampered and loved!

Can you believe I had FOUR birthday cakes!?

The one pictured above is the one my sweet daughter made for me--an ice cream cake!

It gets a "10"!

My sweet hubby bought me the one pictured at the top, my mom made me a strawberry shortcake type one, and my dear neighbor made me a pineapple upside down cake!

Then, on Monday, my hubby and I spent the day celebrating our 24th wedding anniversary!

It was nice to have a day to ourselves...

You know, when you think about it, every day is a special day.

We should celebrate each day that we have as part of a family!

I feel blessed indeed to have such special days.

Enjoy yours!

So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

Psalm 90:12

Farmers' Country Breakfast Casserole

2011-09-14T10:02:00.000-04:00

Farmers' Country Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients:

Servings:

6-8

24 ounces frozen hash brown potatoes
8 eggs, beaten
1 cup milk
1 1/2 cups ham, cut up into 1 inch pieces (I also use cooked breakfast sausage, or cooked bacon) (you can use one or more)
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

In a 9 x 13 greased baking pan, layer potatoes, ham, onion and cheese.
In a medium bowl, beat eggs; add milk, salt and pepper to eggs; beat well until thoroughly incorporated.
Pour over potato/ham layers.
Cover and refrigerate overnight.
To prepare: Preheat oven to 350 degrees; remove cover and bake for approximately 60 minutes. (mine always takes longer! about 1 hr 15 min)

This recipe was requested from my August Post -

Btw, this recipe is the one we usually make on Christmas morning...Enjoy!

Wonderful, Glorious Family Day at the Beach

2011-09-14T03:49:00.003-04:00

Friday my husband took off of work so that we could go to the beach

both to enjoy some family time together--and let the crab go :)

It was an overcast morning, so the beach was nearly deserted!

Yeah for us!

There was evidence of some damage from the hurricane, but not too bad.

You can see we were pretty much to ourselves, when

we got there, there were only 3 cars in the parking lot.

It was a really nice time together

These seagulls didn't have many targets--so, they hung around us alot!

Just waiting for their chance--which they got! While 3 of us took a walk,

and one of us slept on the blanket (notice no names here!?) the seagulls

ATE our potato chips--the whole bag! lol

Phil and Brad have a catch--by now the sun has come out and it was like a lovely summer day.

This very brave little sandpiper would come right on our blanket and look for crumbs!

The waves were a little rough due to Katia.

It really was a lovely day--and boy did it fly by!

We ended it by going to Grotto's for pizza :)

Yum!

Free At Last!

2011-09-13T14:47:00.001-04:00

Remember our little "Crab Stowaway" that I posted about?

Well, we made another trip back to the beach last Friday, and we're happy to report

that he is indeed enjoying being free again.

Thanks to Bri taking good care of him, he survived the month at our house.

I'm so glad he never got loose in the house though! We found that

Ghost Crabs can run up to 10mph--and he did right after we let him out! :)

Cool Deal

2011-09-13T14:35:00.000-04:00

Well, my husband and I will be married 24 years next week...we bought this frig

when we got married--it still works, but we were wanting a new more energy efficient one

Since doing the Dave Ramsey FPU we saved up cash to buy a used one

(a new one was out of our range)

Low and behold, I looked on Craigslist and found one for $250 -only 3 yrs old!

It had all the features we wanted on it! :)

My hunky guys did all the hard hauling to get the new one in, and old one out.

Thanks guys!

And, we are loving it! So blessed!

Nice and bright and easy to find everything.

We think we got a cool deal!

(this frig was 1200. new, and the people only used it one year--it's still under warranty!)

We thank God for letting us be the first to answer the ad!

Within minutes he had over 15 replies.

August is over!

2011-09-01T03:13:00.000-04:00

Well, when I got up this morning and realized that August is over, I made up my mind that

those back doors I had put off painting were a priority!

I tackled all 3 of them and they are now nice and white again!

(I didn't want that dragging into Sept.!)

And so, for dinner tonight we did something easy, our Breakfast Casserole

We made it with turkey breakfast sausage this time-

but, you can also use ham or bacon!

I made my Lancaster run yesterday, here are some of the farm, fresh, free-range eggs

Thanks for your help Bri! :)

Hurricane Irene #2

2011-08-31T17:12:00.000-04:00

We did a lot of prep for Hurricane Irene--including taping our big windows

Thankfully it was unnecessary as we had no damage!

We are thankful to God for that!

Our neighbor lost about 1/2 of his big tree--Brad has helped him for a few days to

chainsaw it up and haul it away

We're glad it wasn't closer to their house!

One blessing that came out of the hurricane was additional time spent w/my mom

as she stayed here during the hurricane.

Here she and the kids are all smiles because it is all over now.

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew,

and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock

Matt. 7:25

Hurricane Irene

2011-08-28T18:02:00.000-04:00

Thanks to all of you who prayed for us during Hurricane Irene

It came with fury from North Carolina and visited Delaware on it's way north

Although we were fortunate enough not to have suffered any damage,

others in our state are suffering from flooding, downed trees, lack of electricity and more.

I borrowed these pics from facebook to show a sampling of what it looks like here in DE today

All of the coastal areas were evacuated, and with good reason!

They also closed all of the roads last night at 10 pm for everyone's safety

A tornado touched down in Lewes damaging 15 or more homes

The above pic was taken in our state capitol of Dover

I have pictures that I took of our area that I will do another post on--but, I just

wanted to give you an idea of our surrounding area

We were fortunate to have my mom here with us-she lives in a mobile home and was

much safer here with us.

We feel blessed indeed to have had God's protection.

Below is a shot of Hurrican Irene entering Va before she made her way up here...

We could have had a very different experience indeed by the looks of it!

I hope that you and your families are safe as well.

August is Flyin' By!

2011-08-25T01:05:00.000-04:00

Our summer has been a busy one...

We used our own onions, garlic, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs to make salsa and

spaghetti sauce

(I had to use my big pot for these tomatoes!)

We canned some, and we ate some :)

We purchased corn from the Amish and froze some...and ate some

Brad made cookie bars for church fellowship..yum!

I made carrot raisin salad

My sweet neighbor and friend gave me a lovely pink rose as a thank you

What a blessing!

She's moving this weekend, and I'm really going to miss her and her family!

My two little darlings are enjoying their summer

Don't they look the picture of ~~orneriness~~ innocence?

It's been quite hot out, and Bingley gets bored when he can't go for long walks!

We've had several rainstorms that were downpours!

(we're thankful for the rain!)

We had a particularly lovely day...so we snuck in a day-trip to the beach

We came back with an unknown extra passenger though...

This Ghost Crab snuck in via Bri's beach bag!

We have to make another trip back to let him go!

Bri and I set him up in a temporary home

So far he is still surviving!

Well, I'll try to post more soon.

We've had a lovely August, hope you have too!

Enjoy these last fleeting days of summer!

August Produce from the Garden

2011-08-18T21:34:00.000-04:00

Brad's garden has been doing quite well!

His cantaloupe was a whopper! It weighed 10 lbs (and was delicious!)

This Moon and Stars Watermelon weighed in at 19.6...but, it wasn't quite ripe :(

(We have tried all the "tricks" at knowing when to pick them, but, they don't seem to work for us!)

We have picked many buckets of tomatoes. Brad picked this basket (which holds less than the buckets)

and it weighed in at 20.6 lbs. I made salsa out of them. :)

How is your garden growing? I hope that you are enjoying the

fruits of your labor too!

Pig Pickin' Cake

2011-08-13T11:55:00.001-04:00

On our trip to North Carolina we learned a lot of new things...

we met relatives we hadn't known...we went to places we'd never been...

and, we tried some food we'd never had before.

One of those was the Pig Pickin' Cake.

Now remember, we might be southern at heart, but we're northern city girls...

we never even heard of Pig Pickin' Cake before! :)

So, last night, Bri and I made one for our church fellowship.

It turned out to be a hit.

Thought I'd pass along the recipe for those who like us-had never tried it.

Enjoy!

photo credit

Be Thou My Vision

2011-08-07T21:32:00.000-04:00

Anyone who knows me really well, knows that my favorite hymn is

Be Thou My Vision.

I never heard it until we attended Community Fellowship Church a few years back.

But once I heard it, it touched my heart deeply, and I've loved it ever since.

It's a very old Irish hymn, with lyrics dating back to the 8th century.

The music was published in 1909.

Here are the lyrics:

Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art
Thou my best Thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight;
Be Thou my Dignity, Thou my Delight;
Thou my soul's Shelter, Thou my high Tower:
Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power.

Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise,
Thou mine Inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven's joys, O bright heaven's Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.

In church today, the men were speaking of the importance of our music in worship. And, how the Christian faith (believers in Jesus Christ) have the absolute best and melodious music, because it glorifies GOD.

This song sprang to my mind, and, I thought I'd do a little post on it this Lord's Day.

Here's a link to a lovely instrumental of it.

(just turn my music off at the bottom of the page first)

Blessings to you and yours!

THANK YOU LORD

2011-08-03T15:30:00.000-04:00

THANK YOU LORD

Lord, thank you for this sink of dirty dishes;

we have plenty of food to eat.

Thank you for this pile of dirty, stinky laundry;

we have plenty of nice clothes to wear.

And I would like to thank you, Lord, for those unmade beds;

they were so warm and comfortable last night.

I know that many have no bed.

My thanks to you, Lord, for this bathroom,

complete with all the splattered
mirrors, soggy, grimy towels and dirty lavatory;

they are so convenient.

Thank you for this finger-smudged refrigerator that needs defrosting so
badly;

It has served us faithfully for many years.

It is full of cold
drinks and enough leftovers for two or three meals.

Thank you, Lord, for this oven that absolutely must be cleaned today.

It has baked so many things over the years.

The whole family is grateful for that tall grass that needs mowing,

the lawn that needs raking; we all enjoy the yard.

Thank you, Lord, even for that slamming screen door.

My kids are healthy and able to run and play.

Lord, the presence of all these chores awaiting me says You have richly
blessed my family.

I shall do them cheerfully and I shall do them gratefully.

This was sent to me by my dear friend Marie.

I loved it, hope you do also.

Hallee's Giveaway!

2011-08-02T09:19:00.001-04:00

Go check out this wonderful giveaway for Halle's blog anniversary!

Making it sssttttrrreeeettttccchhhh!

2011-08-01T03:41:00.000-04:00

I've been thinking over my household chores, and the money that needs to be spent

to keep things clean.

I am stretching our money (as are a lot of us during this tough economy)

so, I thought I'd pass along a few things that we do here to stretch money at home.

Make our own Window Cleaner (1/2 rubbing alcohol and 1/2 water) (a little stronger for tough jobs)

It is inexpensive and effective! We picked up a .99 squirt bottle, and use a squeegee to clean windows and mirrors

White Vinegar and Baking Soda make a wonderful cleaning paste!

We even washed our clear vinyl shower curtain in this - came out looking like new!

Eat at home-and, we make our meals from scratch (planning for leftovers for lunch the next day when possible!)
Buy in bulk (at the Amish store-whenever possible)
Some of the items we purchase there are: spices, flour, brown rice, wheat berries, popcorn, honey, yeast, baking soda and powder, sugar and brown sugar.
Planted a garden and use the produce (both fresh and we freeze and can the excess)

We use our squash in casseroles, and stir-fry. We use the tomatoes for sandwiches and spaghetti sauce fresh, and make salsa and sauce to can. We also cut up the tomatoes and put in quart freezer bags--perfect for soup and chili!

Use masking tape and a Sharpee marker to label our leftovers so we know how fresh they are (keeps us from wasting food!)
When we make muffins-we mix up a 2nd batch and freeze the raw dough in the cupcake papers - when you are ready to bake them-just take straight out of the freezer and bake! Great for a "pinch"!
Use pay by phone to pay my bills--saves me stamps!
Use the library for borrowing movies, books, magazines, cd's and books on tape
Organize our errand runs so that we don't waste time/gas
Put sheets up over our windows during those 100 degree days--kept it much cooler in here!
Arranged a tarp for shade over our heat pump to keep it from having to work so hard in the hot sun (we were careful to be sure it had proper air flow)
Put a small fan in front of our a/c vent in the living room to help the cold air into the room
Wash our clothes in cold water - making sure to measure our detergent so we don't waste (we also use less than they suggest)
Keep our lights off if we're not going to be in the room
Hang our clothes on the line (they get dry for free!)
Shop at Thrift Store (I'm trying to do this only when I need to look for something-If I just "pop in" I will buy something I don't need!)
Cut the men of the house's hair ourselves (I found a pair of professional clippers on amazon- usually $160, and I got them for $15!)
We also took the Dave Ramsey FPU course, and we try hard to stick to a budget
I use the internet to get Swagbucks-and get free amazon gift cards
Use Paperbackswap.com to get free books!

These were just a few ideas that came to mind. I am sure you have lots too! Feel free to share them with me!

She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

Proverbs 31:27

May God bless you as you "look well to the ways" of your household!

Hot Stuff!

2011-07-23T15:09:00.000-04:00

It has been very hot - especially for the area we live in.

Hotter than hot! It actually wound up being hotter than predicted.

The heat index for our area yesterday was 126!

It has given me more time to read my Bible, and get some inside cleaning done

(thanks to our wonderful air conditioning!)

We really, really need rain! We are having to water our gardens daily to keep them alive!

I'm praying and hoping for rain!

And they gathered it every morning, every man according to his eating: and when the sun waxed hot, it melted.
Exodus 16:21

Hope you aren't melting today--keep cool!

Home Happenings...

2011-07-18T03:14:00.002-04:00

Thought I'd share some things happening around our home recently...

Below is a pic of Brad w/one of the many groundhogs he has trapped.

To his great surprise, he also found this raccoon trapped one morning!

Not that I want it eating my garden...but, I did feel sorry for it--it was scared to death and shaking

like a leaf!

Above--squash and zucchini from the garden! :)

These sunflowers were towering over me while I was grilling out...

so bright and cheery!

Yep, I still have tiny peaches on my Bonfire Peach tree!

My flowers are doing well despite the heat

Cherry tomatoes are on!

We did get some rain-which beat these sunflowers down.

We were very thankful for the rain!

This is our new garden bed. These are Phil and my tomatoes.

These cukes are planted beside them--they have bacterial wilt though...so we are

going to try and replant. :(

Some of our squash and zucchini plants

Above is Brad's garden. He has cantelope here on this edge.

Everything he plants always grows like crazy!

Bri's garden isn't very showy right now--it was gorgeous earlier in the summer

I think the heat has gotten to it.

Our other garden bed includes asparagus and potatoes

oh, and rhubarb and celery

and squash!

Close up of Brad's cantelope

And his watermelon ( I love this moon and stars melon)

even the leaves have yellow splotches!

I think our grapes are doing great for the first year!

Can you see this pesky pest on the blackberries?

That is one problem we're having with them...

We've gotten a few off though--not bad for the first year!

Well, just a little update.

How is your garden growing?

Daddy Daughter Day

2011-07-16T17:13:00.000-04:00

My hubby had off last week-Yeah!

And he spent a day doing something special alone w/each one of us.

He took Brad fishing--but alas, there are no pics.

He took me for lunch-no pics there either.

But, he took Bri to the park where she snapped away!

All photo credits to to her--she loves nothing better than spending the day at a park

just hiking and photographing!

Her dad did some of the trail challenges!

She had fun identifying flowers and herbs.

I'm not sure what this little guy is trying to say?

I'm so thankful for a husband who is a great dad!

And, for a daughter who is so special.

Glad they enjoyed each other's company! :)

Monday's dinner...Independence Day

2011-07-07T04:57:00.000-04:00

July 4th was a hot one-so, we ate indoors

What do you think about this Patriotic Trifle?

This bowl weighed about 4 or 5 lbs! lol

What a blessing to have each of these smiling faces around

the table!

We hope that your 4th was a fun family time together too!

Thanks to Taste of Home for the recipe:

Patriotic Trifle Recipe

Directions

In two small bowls, combine each gelatin flavor with 1 cup boiling water. Stir 1/2 cup cold water into each. Pour each into an ungreased 9-in. square pan. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until set.
In a large bowl, whisk milk and pudding mixes for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set. Fold in 2 cups whipped topping.
Set aside 1/4 cup blueberries and 1/2 cup strawberries for garnish. Cut the gelatin into 1-in. cubes. In a 3-qt. trifle bowl or serving dish, layer the strawberry gelatin, half of the cake cubes, the remaining blueberries and half of the pudding mixture.
Top with blue gelatin and remaining cake cubes, strawberries and pudding mixture. Garnish with reserved berries and remaining whipped topping. Serve immediately. Yield: 16-20 servings.

Ingredients

1 package (3 ounces) berry blue gelatin
1 package (3 ounces) strawberry gelatin
2 cups boiling water
1 cup cold water
2 cups cold whole milk
2 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 carton (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
1 pint fresh blueberries
1 quart fresh strawberries, quartered
1 prepared angel food cake (8 to 10 ounces), cut into 1-inch cubes

ChickFilA Fun!

2011-07-06T04:52:00.001-04:00

Talk about fun!

I had the privilege of winning 50 free sandwiches from our local ChickFilA off of facebook.

They asked if you had 50 free sandwiches...what would you do with them?

I answered that I would share them with our neighbors-and they gave them to me!

So, Saturday, Brad and I went around the neighborhood handing them out--

it was great!

So much fun for the kids--they loved it! (even the BIG KIDS!)

Lots of excitement!

We had a great time doing it--thanks ChickFilA! :)

Our Trip-Day Four-Part 2 (Final day)

2011-07-05T05:41:00.000-04:00

Alas, all good things must end, and so we went to our last visit of the trip...

We visited with these dear ones one last time, and had such a great time of fellowship with them!

We were also able to visit with their dear friends, and so enjoyed the laughter and bantering!

Lots of fun!

We hated to leave the company of these dear ones...and I have to admit that I shed some tears as

we said our goodbyes.

And, I am reminded of this verse from Philippians:

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,
And I do!

Thanks for taking the time to read about our trip!

Independence Day thoughts...

2011-07-04T04:41:00.000-04:00

How many more posts will we get to do on independence and freedom?

Sadly, it sure seems like they are slipping away here in the USA...

Only here in America do we celebrate Independence Day...on July 4th

Here in the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave, we should be thanking God

daily for His bountiful gifts provided in this country.

Thanks to our Founding Fathers, and our servicemen we enjoy more freedoms than any other country.

I don't know how long that will be true, but it has been true during my entire lifetime.

"It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ. For that reason alone, people of other faiths have been afforded freedom of worship here."
- Patrick Henry

America no longer honors God, or His principles put forth in His Word, and so I believe that judgement has begun in our land.

But, we shouldn't give up! We should speak up! We should unite and fight for the principles that this country was founded on! (As others before us have done)

We should drop on our knees in prayer for

this land.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

So today, I want to thank God for His blessings on this country, and, I am praying that this country's leaders will drop to their knees and acknowledge Him.

I hope America realizes Who has been responsible for the freedom we've enjoyed, and thanks Him for it by obeying and honoring Him. And, I hope that this happens soon, for the sake of my children and grandchildren.

This year as I celebrate Independence Day, I am going to be especially thankful to God for this country...

Long may she wave!

Our Trip-Day Four-Part 1

2011-07-03T04:27:00.003-04:00

We were up early and headed to JB's for breakfast, and then on to visit some cousins that

Bri and I had never met before!

This is Aunt Maude's son and his wife-we had a wonderful visit with them!

We all found that we had so much in common!

After leaving their home, we headed to the Blue Ridge Parkway!

This was something that Briana and I really wanted to do--it was lovely!

Some of the "Mountain Laurel" was still in bloom (although we missed peak season)

God is so creative!

We couldn't resist a picture of this adorable church w/a mountain view!

After leaving the parkway, we headed over for a wonderful visit with some

more cousins :)

To our surprise(& delight!), they had a quilt square on their barn!

They had lovely flowers and gardens!

Alene fixed us Fried Apple Pies--YUM!

Aren't these mini donkey's cute!?

Such a lovely time visiting...sitting on the porch while a cool breeze blew

It reminded me of the old days when people did sit and visit on their front porch

The time flew and we had another visit to make...I'll make that part 2 :)

Our Trip-Day Three-Part 2

2011-07-02T04:46:00.001-04:00

We continued in the little town--everyone lives close which was nice :)

We visited some dear cousins that own their own Christmas tree farm

These cousins grew up together--and had much to reminisce about and catch up on!

While they chatted, Bri took lots of pics of their lovely home

Love that mountain stone on the fireplace!

She has a lovely decorators touch

Lovely family heirlooms...imagine the sweet hands that used this spinning wheel.

Some adorable friends dropped by and said hello

Then they fed us - they put out a huge and delicious spread for us!

It was a sweet time had by all--a real blessing!

Our Trip-Day Three-Part 1

2011-07-01T04:22:00.003-04:00

In the parking lot of our hotel was this great little place to eat breakfast!

They had fun decorations in it!

Mom wanted to get some flowers to give to those we visited, so

we stopped at this great farmstand

I couldn't resist snapping this pic of heirloom tomatoes

In our travels we saw another "quilt square"

We went to visit my Great Aunt Maude...below is the view from her house!

She will turn 93 today! She's very fiesty! And has such a sharp mind!

A picture of her and her departed husband in younger years

Bri met her for the first time--she really enjoyed the visit with her. :)

After a nice visit, we left and saw this quilt square in this field.

We then went to visit with the immediate family of our cousin who passed away

What a sweet family, they will be in our prayers in the days to come.

We saw his war decorations

And visited his gravesite with them

Then we had to say goodbye. I hope it isn't too long until

we see them again!

Our Trip-Day Two-Part 2

2011-06-30T11:05:00.000-04:00

The scenery in my Mom's hometown of Sparta was breathtaking!

All through the county were these lovely quilt squares mounted on buildings

and barns

In the hardware store in town, there was a poster of them all

The hardware store also gave us some interesting photos :)

Don't you love the quilt on this display?

Then we hit a little boutique in the town--so fun to shop in!

We thought the shirt below was cute, we are flip flop wearers :)

The sign below is from the Christian cafe that is in the same building

Most of the pictures are Bri's--I did try and take the one below of the window dressing

(sorry it didn't come out that great)

It was a long day, with a lot of emotions...some very sad, and some very joyful.

Isn't that just like life?

Our Trip-Day Two-Part 1

2011-06-30T04:24:00.003-04:00

Day Two dawned with threatening skies...

The servicemen preparing for the burial

As if on cue, the rain began

The soldiers carried on as if it were a dry day

Unfortunately, the rain drumming on the umbrellas made it impossible for us to hear

what was being said

Afterward the rain began to let up a bit

It made for dramatic skies as we headed for the meal provided at the VFW hall

How about this old newspaper headline on the wall at the VFW?

My Mom and her sweet cousin

Lots of relatives that my Mom hadn't seen for a long time

A lovely group of ladies-each one is special.

I will continue the rest of the day in a later post...

Our Trip-Day One

2011-06-29T05:10:00.000-04:00

The reason for our trip to North Carolina was a solemn one as we were there to attend the burial of a loved one. But, we did have many rays of joy during this trip as well.

We got really excited when we began to see these gorgeous mountains!

It is always moving for me to see the Three Crosses alongside the road

On I-81 we came to a dead stop as they were blasting along the road

This gave us time to goof around as we had to wait about an hour

(we were punchy from no sleep!)

We finally saw the sign declaring our destination state!

Even better was the one telling us we were only 10 miles away!
These lovely Christmas trees are one of the crops grown by local farmers in the area

We just had time to check into our room, and dash out to dinner before the viewing.

After the viewing they conducted the funeral service, and the graveside services were

scheduled for the next day.

We went back to our room afterwards and fell sound asleep!

A Great Loss...

2011-06-28T10:08:00.001-04:00

I am just home from North Carolina, where I drove my mother and daughter to the funeral

of a dear and sweet cousin, Robert Eldon Edwards.

This Christian man fought a long, valiant fight against cancer. He had an army career that spanned 21 years.

Many of his comrades attended and stood vigil in the rain to pay their respects.

He was buried with full military honors.

This church and cemetary are adjacent to his homestead.

Our prayers go out to his sweet wife, children, and grandchildren.

He will be missed by many, but we wouldn't wish him back...he sits at the feet of Jesus!

Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.Psalm 116:15

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2011-06-21T09:24:00.000-04:00

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Thank you!

Herbs and things...

2011-06-20T12:37:00.000-04:00

We've had a good growing season thus far this year!

This barrel houses my "kitchen herb garden" as it is right out our back gate-

not too far from the kitchen door.

As you can see...it's full and overflowing!

I always love trying new things--this year I found this lovely purple basil

(& purple is my fav color)

I love this varigated thyme

This Apple Mint really does smell like apples!

I also have a grape tomato plant in the barrel w/the herbs

Here are the regular and purple basils together

(sorry, not a great shot--the sun was so bright-I couldn't see for the glare!)

Just at the foot of my barrel, this chammomile is growing-in a bed of plantain

Bri and I are going to make a tincture out of this plantain soon!

I was blessed to win the Giveaway for Shoshanna Pearl's Making Herbs Simple DVD

over at Imperfect Housewife!

It gives a wonderful demonstration on how to make the tincture!

Makes me feel brave enough to try it for sure!

Here is Bri's herb pot-also located just outside the kitchen on the patio

I love that rosemary! :)

And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.

Genesis 1:11

21...21...21...21...21!!!!

2011-06-18T04:20:00.001-04:00

Somehow...I'm not sure how...but my little girl's birthday is today...

and she's 21!

I cannot believe how the time has flown by!

It seems like just yesterday I brought my first born home from the hospital...

All of these smiles remind me of so many memories--aren't you glad God

gave us memories!?

She has blossomed into a young lady--and become my right hand in our home :)

May the Lord bless you more and more Bri as you serve Him with your whole heart.
May He guide you as you take the steps He has ordered for you.
May He grant you wisdom to stay on His perfect path.
May He reveal His great plans for you!

He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places.
Psalm 18:33

We love you and wish you a very Happy 21st Birthday!

My Baby Turns 18!

2011-06-15T08:18:00.001-04:00

Happy 18th Birthday Brad!

Oh my, how quickly time flies!

Just yesterday he was just a little guy!

The years flew by, peppered with laughter, tears, fun, scraped knees,

good times, hard times, love, and much joy!

How did he become a man overnight?

May the Lord bless you Brad as you serve Him wholeheartedly!

May He grant you wisdom, understanding and guidance.

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength;

they shall mount up with wings as eagles;

they shall run, and not be weary;

and they shall walk, and not faint.

Isaiah 40:31

May He show you when to fly, when to run, when to walk, and when to wait.

We love you and we're thankful for you!

Happy Birthday Son!

Bless Her Lil' Pea Pickin' Heart! :)

2011-06-10T23:19:00.001-04:00

This is my lovely daughter helping me with the snow peas

We love them straight out of the garden--Yum!

Unfortunately, it has gotten very hot, and they are ending prematurely. :(

If you've never had snow peas, you don't know what you're missing! The difference between them and regular peas? They are eaten in the pod.

(All you have to do is remove the strings--that's what Bri was doing)

Then, we steamed ours just a bit--don't want to overcook these tender legumes.

Btw, it is one of the earliest known cultivated plants in the world.

1 cup of these snow peas have 10% of your daily fiber

98% of Vitamin C

21% Vitamin A

11% of Iron

4% of Calcium

Oh, and we sometimes just toss them raw on top of our salad too!

Yum!

New Rhubarb Recipe

2011-06-07T10:45:00.000-04:00

I just made up a new recipe so to speak for using some of our rhubarb

(which my husband loves)

I took my usual Apple Crisp Recipe, and changed it up...

I went out to the garden and cut the rhubarb, and picked some of our strawberries

(I love strawberries!)

I used a jar of the Apple Pie Filling that I had canned

Mixed it together with the sugar

Added the rest of the usual apple crisp ingredients..

Put it in the 9 x 9 baking dish

It came out great--and was a big hit!

I really like using produce from our yard, and items I have canned! :)

Amazon Gift Card Giveaway!

2011-06-07T09:41:00.000-04:00

Over at A Wise Woman Builds Her Home

is a $25 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

Go check it out!

Great New Parenting Resource!

2011-06-07T08:38:00.001-04:00

In this second book from the Duggars, they focus on the principles that equip them to face life’s challenges—drawing from their most recent challenge with the 3-month premature birth of their newest child, Josie. They also share the new challenges their older children are facing as they prepare for adult life. Central to the book is a section on the principles that the Duggars have consistently taught their children. These simply worded principles are basic to the Duggar family and are shared in a way that other parents can incorporate in their own homes. A special chapter on homeschooling gives valuable information to parents who are considering this route or are already invested in it. The world continues to be amazed by their nineteen well-groomed, well-behaved, well-schooled children and their home life, which focuses on family, financial responsibility, fun—and must importantly, faith. The Duggars show how parents can succeed whether they’re rearing a single child or several

Some of the chapter titles:

Praying without Ceasing
Miracles and Milestones
Daily Training, Tips, and Practicalities
Protecting and Cherishing Our Relationships

A Love That Multiplies is 20% off right now and selling for

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If you decide to order, please use my affiliate button on the right or the link!

Thank you :)

A Day at the Beach...

2011-06-06T07:35:00.002-04:00

We escaped on Friday for our first beach trip of the year...

of course the first thing we did was eat! lol

My honey had the day off...here he is soaking up (too much) sun!

Here's Bri soaking up a little too much sun too

Nothing like the sound of the gulls!

(as long as they aren't after my food!)

Brad taking a little snooze

The weather was perfect (just a bit too breezy) and we had fun enjoying the sea spray,

gull cries, roar of the waves, and family time...

Great way to "kick off" the summer!

Poll Results

2011-06-05T22:07:00.000-04:00

The Poll is closed and the results are in!

All of us but one iron on an "As Needed" basis

One said "I rarely iron"

No one had a regular ironing day....

I feel much better now!

We're all on the same page...although maybe a little wrinkled! lol

Thanks for "playing!"

Memorial Day

2011-06-05T18:03:00.001-04:00

Can you believe it's been a week since Memorial Day already!?

We had a nice dinner with my Mom and Phil's Dad...

(I was too busy to get pics of them though!)

We did snag some of the table and punch before they came...and after :)

Thought I'd share a few lines from a lovely Memorial Day Poem:

Thank God,

For the citizens,

Of the USA!

Who sacrifice,

Their life long stay,

To cut it short,

At any day,

For the Peace,

And the Freedom,

Of us,

Who in,

Homeland stay.

Thank God,

For the citizens,

Of the USA!

D.Alsup

Baked Beans Recipe

2011-05-31T20:43:00.001-04:00

Baked Bean Recipe

1 Can Each Of:

Pork 'n Beans

Kidney Beans

Lima Beans

Butter Beans

1/2 lb Bacon (or ground turkey, or ground beef)

1/2 Large Onion, chopped

1/2 Cup Brown Sugar

1/2 Cup Sugar

1/2 Cup Ketchup

Drain all beans except pork 'n beans. Cook bacon and drain-reserving the grease. Cook onion in bacon grease. In baking dish combine all beans, sugars, ketchup, onions plus some of the bacon grease (2-4 tablespoons) and crumbled up bacon.

Bake in 325 degree oven for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

(This recipe is easily doubled.)

This recipe is from my Mom's friend Gloria--and it is delicious! We served it at Brad's graduation and it got rave reviews--so, I posted it here for any who wanted it.

Something New! My First Poll!

2011-05-31T15:07:00.000-04:00

I love homemaking!

Cooking, baking, gardening, sewing, laundry etc...

However, ironing is not one of my favs

I am curious about your ironing habits too. So, answer my Ironing Poll on the right and fill me in!

I never tried a poll before--it's my first! :)

Random...

2011-05-29T17:23:00.001-04:00

Just posting some random photos I was editing today...

enjoy!

Spring Really Is Bustin' Out All Over!

2011-05-25T01:35:00.000-04:00

We planted things pretty early this year as it got warm early

Everything is doing well and is pretty established

We put a flag out that we snagged at a yard sale last year :)

These look purple, but they aren't they're BLUE

These tiny white flowers pictured above are actually growing on my moss!

It was taken really, really close up

My herbs in the pot are really thriving, tomato plant too!

(Cherry tomato)

Our blackberry plant has lots of blooms!

Our cranberry did too--the flowers are almost gone though

I waited too long to take a pic!

Cukes are getting some mature leaves

Brad's lettuce is so lush and green

Strawberries are being picked already

I really like the strawberry picture above

Briana's foxgloves above

and chamomile below are both blooming

I've had a hard time getting these squash plants going :/

This watermelon plant has speckled leaves, and the watermelon will

be speckled too...it's called Moon and Stars

Think I'll get any peaches off my new tree?

We planted these table grapes last year...can't wait to see what they're going to do!

The guys have to build me a trellis yet...

Hope your Spring is off to a good start!

Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise.

Psalm 98:4

Sharri's Snapzshotz

So Excited!

Fun little recipe

Winter Pastime

Snow

Sprucing Up

View at Your Own Risk

Wonderful Mother/Daughter Investment

Everyday Happenings

O Love That Will Not Let Me Go

Comparison or Contentment?

Insightful Devotion

New Year

Update

Almost Time...

Our Daily Bread

Vision Forum December Sale & Free Shipping Code

Changes

20% off Everything at Vision Forum!

Hall of Fame

Crazy Kids!

Lord's Day Thoughts

Under His Wings

Home Organization Notebook

Fall Creativity

Busy baking day etc...

﻿To every thing there is a season...even for being sick

Photography Feature by Briana

An Add On...

Apple Time!

The 2011 Vision Forum "Kit & Kaboodle" Collection- 3 day sale

The 2011 Vision Forum "Kit & Kaboodle" Collection

$58.00

Special Days

Farmers' Country Breakfast Casserole

Farmers' Country Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients:

Directions:

Wonderful, Glorious Family Day at the Beach

Free At Last!

Cool Deal

August is over!

Hurricane Irene #2

Hurricane Irene

August is Flyin' By!

August Produce from the Garden

Pig Pickin' Cake

Be Thou My Vision

THANK YOU LORD

Hallee's Giveaway!

Making it sssttttrrreeeettttccchhhh!

Hot Stuff!

Home Happenings...

Daddy Daughter Day

Monday's dinner...Independence Day

Directions

Ingredients

ChickFilA Fun!

Our Trip-Day Four-Part 2 (Final day)

Independence Day thoughts...

Our Trip-Day Four-Part 1

Our Trip-Day Three-Part 2

Our Trip-Day Three-Part 1

Our Trip-Day Two-Part 2

Our Trip-Day Two-Part 1

Our Trip-Day One

A Great Loss...

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Herbs and things...

21...21...21...21...21!!!!

My Baby Turns 18!

Bless Her Lil' Pea Pickin' Heart! :)

New Rhubarb Recipe

Amazon Gift Card Giveaway!

Great New Parenting Resource!

A Day at the Beach...

Poll Results

Memorial Day

To every thing there is a season...even for being sick

Enjoy the Savings and Selection of a Homeschool
Vendor Hall. . . from Home! Up to 60% Off