Goose Hill Farm

A Sneak Peak

2012-01-30T13:04:00.002-05:00

The packing has been going okay so far, but now it's time to kick it into high gear. I can barely move amongst all the stuff and the kitchen is a maze of boxes with stuff spread out all over the kitchen table. I know this transition is hard on Kiddo so I have been trying my best to keep things as normal as possible, but I am finding out that is no small feat. I am making pizza for dinner tonight, so I know he will be a happy camper this evening for at least a little while!

I took some pics of our new home the other day and thought I would share them with you. This house was a weekend rental and came furnished, but all of the furniture has now been removed.

central heat and air! WOO HOO!
We've NEVER had that before, only window units
Thank you, Lord, for the a/c!

the flower bed is filled with hostas.....I love hostas!

We FINALLY have a screened in porch we can

sit on during thunder and lightning storms.

We LOVE to listen to the rain

living room

dining area

bathroom

kitchen

I just can't seem to get away from the

washer and dryer being in the kitchen

behind bi-fold doors! lol

another view of the dining area

from the kitchen

as you can see, it's an open floor plan so I can see

EVERYTHING that goes on....lol

Kiddo's bedroom

our bedroom

and the sewing/computer room.

Did you notice I put SEWING first? lol

My Skippy Man in the kitchen. I like that....yes, I do!

the back part of the yard and right in front of this hill is.....

AAHHH! You have to walk through some wiry weeds

but it's worth the trek. Skippy wants to dam up

a small spot here so the kids can go swimming.

And there is another perk to this house but I didn't get a picture of that. It's a..... HOT TUB! WOO HOO!

Well, I'm off....time to pack some more boxes!

Thank you, sweet Father, for providing us with a home and for the little extra blessings that we didn't even ask for, but that you thought we needed!

Blessings

2012-01-24T12:25:00.000-05:00

(PLEASE PAUSE PLAYLIST BEFORE VIEWING VIDEO)

This Is Tiring

2012-01-24T06:00:00.005-05:00

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

I have to say, this moving thing is TIRING, not just physically, but emotionally as well. I have lived in four different places but have never really had to do much packing, until now. When I moved from my parents home into an apartment I shared with my sister, we didn't have much to bring with us, so that was quick and easy. We didn't live there long due to us being robbed, so we didn't acquire much. After I got married and we moved into our apartment, again, I didn't have much to go with, basically, just my clothes. Our apartment was tiny, so when we moved to a house, there wasn't much to move over, at least nothing that really required much packing.

In July of 1989, we came down to VA with my dad to help him move and get things ready for my mom and grandmother, who would be coming down in February. We stayed for two weeks to help him unpack and get things situated, especially in the kitchen. I knew that would be the first place mom would want ready for when she came home.

Well, they morning we were supposed to go back to NY, I told My Skippy Man, "I am not going back. The girls and I are staying here in VA!" "OK!", he said, and went back to NY, quit his job, and packed up our entire house....by himself. WHAT AN AWESOME HUSBAND I HAVE!! Then, we bought my parents home. Pretty easy moving job since we already lived here......no packing again! :> )

Fast forward to present day. Now we are carefully going through over 22 years of ours, my parent's, and our children's lives, sorting and reminiscing. We have experienced birth, death, benchmark milestones of our children, dinners and celebrations with friends and family, game and family nights, difficult times in our marriage, our children's graduations, the marriages of our daughters, homeschooling Kiddo, and many more trials and blessings the good Lord has allowed us to have and experience.

Part of me is sad to be moving on, but the other part of me is really and truly excited to be starting a new chapter in our lives.

Being Transparent

2012-01-23T13:51:00.000-05:00

I feel that God is putting it upon my heart to be totally transparent with all of you today and explain our move. Ever since I left my full-time job as a teaching assistant in the public school system, things have been difficult financially for us, but God has always provided for our needs. We knew it would be difficult, but we felt that God had directed us to homeschool Kiddo for his high school years, so we did. It wasn't just a leap of faith....it was completely throwing ourselves off the top of the mountain, but we knew deep in our hearts, God was waiting down below, ready to catch us.

I cut corners where I could, made things from scratch, have sold things on eBay and Etsy, but that wasn't enough. About three years ago, we went to the mortgage company asking for help in reducing our payments. They helped us get everything current so we were not late or behind, but then raised our mortgage payments. Hmmm.....somehow that just didn't make sense to me.

So, we had done our best to meet our payments on time, but again, it was a severe struggle. We again went to the mortgage company for some help. We asked if they could reduce our payments long enough for us to finish our last year of homeschooling our son who has Asperger's. Upon his graduating, I would be able to go back to work and be able to meet our mortgage payment. Skippy would call time and time again to find out the status of our modification, but only to be told our "associate" was not in the office or she was not at her desk. After months of hearing nothing, we got a letter in the mail from a lawyer with a sale date of December 14th, where our home would be auctioned off on the courthouse steps. Again, Skippy called and our "associate" was not in her office. After hearing no more from either the mortgage company or the lawyers office, Skippy called our mortgage company on the 13th and told us that the lawyer's office had agreed to delay the sale the following date. WONDERFUL, but why hadn't anyone contacted us to let us know? At this point now, we knew we had at least thirty days if we didn't get approved for our modification.

After a few more weeks of calling, Skippy finally found out that our associate no longer worked there. They apologized for her lack of communication and in the same breath, said that they were sorry to inform us that our modification had been denied. But, the good news was that we could now do a short sale and as long as we had a contract with a realtor at least ten days before the lawyer's office had rescheduled a sale date, that would halt any foreclosure proceedings. So, that is what we did. However, unbeknownst to us, our house had already been listed on the internet as a Trustee Sale and will be sold at auction on the courthouse steps on February 8th.

I know we should be fuming at all that has happened, but we can't be. We know that God has a plan; a plan larger than anything we could ever comprehend!

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us!" Ephesians 3:20

~HALLELUJAH,

GOD IS IN CONTROL!~

Changes And A Big FrEeZe

2012-01-19T10:37:00.001-05:00

Photo courtesy of: www.hinghamweather.com

WOW......we woke up to 14 degrees this morning. I am so thankful My Skippy Man threw a couple of pieces of wood in the stove before he left for work. There were still some embers left so it was pretty easy to get it rip-roaring again. Our weather has been absolutely INSANE! Just two days ago it was 63* degrees, can you believe that? My heart goes out to those who are without heat and shelter during the winter months. I pray God will watch over them and wrap His loving arms around them.

The next few weeks will be extremely busy for us as we will be packing up and moving our family away from the only home our children have ever known. It is a difficult time for all of us but we are leaning on and trusting in our Lord, Jesus Christ, to get us through. He has been a constant source of joy and comfort during our most difficult times and I thank Him and praise Him for always being there for us.

It is not a "long distance" move, only about 8-10 miles to a neighboring town, a place where Skippy said he would NEVER, EVER move to. We are learning that God has an AWESOME sense of humor........DON'T tell God what you won't do, you'll eat your words! lol I will try and post whenever I can, but please bear with me if there are many days in between. Please know that we are well but just a wee bit busy!

We are very blessed to have some amazing friends who have helped us along in this process, helping locate a house that will allow us to bring all our animals with us, and guess what....PRAISE THE LORD, HE PROVIDED just that! It may not be the house or the area that we WANTED, but it is the house we NEEDED! God has a plan for sending us where he has and it will be fun and exciting to see what happens next.

We tend to forget and only praise God during the good times, when things or circumstances are going our way. Today I want to PRAISE GOD for allowing us to go through these difficult times because when we do, He shows me that we are not alone and He is right there with us, that He IS in control, "and that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose!"

Change Is A Comin'

2012-01-15T22:53:00.002-05:00

There are some big changes happening here on the farm and we are clinging to this scripture passage:

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future!"

Jeremiah 29:11

We all go through times in our lives when God will put us into a circumstance that puts us way out of our comfort zone and all we can do is scratch our head and think...."YOU'RE ASKING US TO DO WHAT?" "GO WHERE?" "WHY ARE WE HAVING TO GO THROUGH THIS?" "WHAT ARE YOU TRYING TO TEACH ME?" But God has a plan and He knows what He is doing. Has has had our lives planned out from the beginning of time.

I have been learning that if I put all my trust in the Lord....if I obey Him and heed His calling in my life, whatever that may be or wherever that may lead, that He will provide. They may not be the things that we want, but they will be exactly what we need to accomplish His will and glorify Him.

What an amazing feeling it is "LET GO AND LET GOD" move in our lives. I can't wait to see which direction He will take our family next, but I do know that whatever direction that is, our precious Lord will be uplifted and glorified every step of the way!!

Knowing God's Will

2012-01-10T23:23:00.002-05:00

"Now therefore, I pray You, if I have found favor in Your sight, show me now Your way!"

Exodus 33:13

"Knowing the will of God" - both the big picture and the daily details - concerns every Christian. We all need to ask often, What is it God wants me to do? How is it He wants me live?

It is as we know we are doing God's will that we find true meaning in life and a deep sense of accomplishment and purpose. How can we know that we are doing God's will? One of the simplest approaches is this:

First, commit yourself to the Lord each day, and periodically throughout the day, by simply saying, "Lord, I put my life in Your hands. Do with me what You will!"

Second, trust the Lord to send you the work and the relationships you need for His purpose in your life to be accomplished.

As Roberta Hromas, a noted Bible teacher once said: "Simply answer your door, answer your phone, and answer your mail. The Lord will put in your path the opportunities that He desires for you to pursue.

God's will is not a mystery you try desperately to unlock. He does not desire His will to be a secret, because the Bible is filled with scriptures about knowing His will. They key is to see His will, to listen to the Holy Spirit, and read and study His Word. Then you can know what He has planned for you!

Headin' Out

2012-01-07T05:58:00.001-05:00

Today we are headin' out to spend some MUCH NEEDED time together as a family. It will be nice to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and just relax, and not worry about anything but just enjoy each other.

I pray your day will be just as wonderful as I know our day will be!

ThAt'S wEiRd!

2012-01-05T13:24:00.000-05:00

When I went out to gather our eggs this morning, I was very surprised to see that the nesting boxes were empty. Hmm....tHaT's WeIrD! So I looked around and found 5 eggs over in a corner of the shed. I looked on-line and found that there really is no rhyme or reason why they decided to lay outside their boxes, but that if one does it, more will follow suite. And as you can see....they did just that! I still have two more eggs to gather. It am curious to see where I will find them! lol

Today I have been filling orders for my decorative clothespins and making some new ones to put up in my Etsy shop. As you can see, I have a piece of material I want to try on them as well. I can't wait to see how that goes.

I have also been creating my own aprons and clothespin bags and hope to have them put up soon as well. I love making things, watching them go from scraps to a finished item. I really like using recycled materials, cutting apart clothing and using the fabrics, wool, etc. Why spend the money on new when there is so much out there that can be re-purposed!

Well, I'm off......I need to wrap and bag up things that need to be mailed.

HAVE A GREAT DAY!

I Just Can't Seem To Get Warm

2012-01-04T14:22:00.001-05:00

It has been cold here for the past few days. I absolutely LOVE the cold weather and everything that comes with it.....especially the snow. HOPEFULLY will get some significant snow falls this year. Yesterday it was in the twenties, but the wind hOwLeD like crazy making it seem raw and bitter.....even the ladies ran for cover back in their house. Last night it got down to 16 and so far today, it hasn't gotten above freezing.

Normally, I can deal with the cold, but for some reason, these past two days I have been FROZEN, and nothing aside form sitting in my rocking chair wrapped in a quilt, holding a hot cup of tea, and practically sitting on top of the wood stove has even helped. I did realize yesterday, that three storm windows were still down, and one window was open, but they were quickly taken care of. I thought that would help, but today feels the same way.

Not wanting to continue to feel like a momsicle, I decided to put up sheets in the two doorways between the kitchen and the living room since we don't use that very much, trying to keep the heat focused on the rest of the house that we do use, especially the kitchen. While I was putting up the sheets, I remembered back when we were growing up and my parents did the same thing,. I have done this during the summer as well, to help with the air conditioning. Hey, you do what you have to do, right?

After putting up the sheets and closing off the back storage room, I have begun to feel a big difference already. I did, however, figure out how to feel warmer really quick........I went outside to feed the chickens without my coat. I was out for only about 5 minutes, but when I came back inside......WARMTH! I'll have to do the same thing during the summer to get cooler! lol

I pray those of you that live in areas were the temperatures have plummeted, are able to stay nice and toasty warm.

Have a great day!

That Was Then......This Is Now

2012-01-03T13:19:00.000-05:00

I was looking through the office the other day and look what I found.....WOW! It's hard to believe that was 25 years ago. We have been through good times and bad, sickness and health, richer and poorer, but PRAISE THE LORD, we are still together!

We celebrated our 25th anniversary back in November, but I want Skippy to know that every day I get to spend with him in this life, is a blessing to me. And knowing that I will spend eternity with my Heavenly Father and the love of my life, fills my heart with joy!

I LOVE YOU, MY SKIPPY MAN!!

1986

2010

I think this is my favorite picture of us!

My Music Playlist

2012-01-01T16:30:00.002-05:00

Ok, I don't know about you, but every now and then I go through these phases where I just HAVE to listen to the "oldies" from my growing up. It's hard to believe that my music is now considered "the oldies!" ROFLOL! My Skippy Man says I'm stuck in the 70's....oh, well! lol

I think it is AWESOME when a song brings back memories of special time or person in your life. That is such a wonderful feeling! I hope you know some of the songs I have chosen. If there is a special one YOU would like added.....just let me know!

Well, I'm off......time to crank up the music and do the dishes!

HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!!

May God fill our lives abundantly with love, joy, and PEACE throughout the coming year!

My Babies Are Growin' Up

2011-12-31T20:49:00.004-05:00

A few months ago, our three precious New Hampshire Red babies went to live with their Aunt C. I was heartbroken when they left, but I knew they were going to a home just as loving as ours was.

Since I was over yesterday crafty with my sister, I just HAD to go out and get a couple of pics of the babies so you could see how they were doing. Well, as you can see, they are growing by leaps and bounds and are growing up into very handsome roosters and a beautiful future hen. As you can see, they love my sister.....and you'll see just how much when you get to the last pic! :> )

C. with Nugget

Me with General Tso

Little Miss Melody - out of view is her

sweetheart, Gregory PECK! lol

The Gang - Gregory Peck, Miss Melody's sweetheart,

is the white rooster all the way to the left

ROFLOL!
Don't you just LOVE this pic? She loves them
and they love her!

I am so glad that my babies are happy in their new home....I didn't expect anything different!

Fun With Sissy

2011-12-30T12:38:00.001-05:00

Today I am at my sister's house and we are having a crafting day. WOO HOO! The boys are playing video games and the girls are making snow cones and playing with their dolls. This frees us up to have some time together. It always seems to be quieter when there are extra children around! lol

I hope I can get some good pics of the babies so you can see just how much they've GROWN! I pray you are all having a WONDERFUL DAY! See you later!

You've GOT To See This - Especially Renee

2011-12-28T23:03:00.000-05:00

PLEASE PAUSE PLAYLIST ON FAR-RIGHT SIDEBAR BEFORE VIEWING VIDEO!

My friend Renee over at "GLOW ACADEMY" just got a treadmill. When I read that on her blog, I knew I just HAD to share this video!

I know you will love this....it's so COOL!!

Perfect Potatoes au Gratin

2011-12-28T14:11:00.000-05:00

We had these at my sister's house when we celebrated Christmas with her and her family and all I can say is WOW! You only need three words describe this recipe:

Creamy . . . .Delicious . . . .PERFECT!!

For this DELICIOUS recipe, you will need:

4 whole Russet Potatoes, Scrubbed Clean
2 Tablespoons Butter, Softened
1-½ cup Heavy Cream
½ cups Whole Milk
2 Tablespoons Flour
4 cloves Garlic, Finely Minced
1 teaspoon Salt
Freshly Ground Pepper, to taste
1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Freshly Grated

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Smear softened butter all over the bottom of a baking dish.
Slice potatoes, then cut slices into fourths.

In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, milk, flour, minced garlic, salt, and plenty of freshly ground black pepper.

**Place 1/3 of the potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish. Pour 1/3 of the cream mixture over the potatoes.

Repeat this two more times, ending with the cream mixture. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown and really bubbling. Add grated cheese to the top of the potatoes and bake for 3 to 5 more minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Allow to stand for a few minutes before serving by the spoonful. NOM, NOM!!

**For this step, I just put all my potatoes in my baking dish and poured the milk mixture over the top of them and gently stirred.....I did not layer anything.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T15:58:00.000-05:00

Primitive Candle Garland

2011-12-23T13:48:00.000-05:00

I have a bag that I take with me in the car, that is whenever I can remember, so I can keep my hands busy. I don't like to be idle, although sometimes I don't have a choice.

These primitive candle garlands are very easy to make and don't take much time at all. You can make your circles and tie whatever size you want to fit whatever candle you have.

For the garland, you will need:

3 different fabrics for your yo-yo's
3 matching buttons
twine
scissors
sewing needle & thread

For your circles, you need to make sure you cut your fabric out with a circumference DOUBLE the size you want your finished circles to be. I made a template out of cardboard that has a 4 inch circumference because I wanted my yo-yo's to be 2 inches when I was finished.

After you have finished cutting out your circles, you will sew small stitches all around the outside edge. When you have gone all the way around, pull your thread, gathering your circle in the middle. Don't cut your thread yet. Here I make a couple of extra stitches, just to make sure the ends stay together. Now it's time to sew on your button. When you get that sewn on, cut your thread.

Now it's time to lay your yo-yo's upside down, in the order you want them. Sew them together at the edges that touch. After that, tack your twine to the back of each yo-yo. I stitched it in three places on the back of each one, making sure it is really secure. Now all you have to do is tie it around your candle!

Gettin' Crafty - Handmade Personalized Picture Coasters

2011-12-22T11:43:00.002-05:00

I absolutely LOVE to make things whenever I can, but I truly enjoy it most of all, when I get to create gifts for those special people in my life for their birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and Christmas, etc. Here is one of the gifts I made for Bean coasters Don't worry, she won't see these pics. My family doesn't read my blog unless I tell them too! lol

Why have BLAH looking coasters , when you can have BEAUTIFUL and PERSONALIZED coasters instead? Remember.....you can you decorate these with any picture, graphics, you want!

These coasters are SOOO CUTE and SUPER UBER EASY TO MAKE! For these personalized coasters, you will need the following:

4 ceramic tiles in your choice of color, texture, and size (I like the textured 4x4 ones from Home Depot @ .31 cents each)

4 squares of scrapbook paper and cut these whatever size you want for your tile. I wanted a nice border of tile to be seen because I thought it was really pretty, so I cut mine paper smaller, leaving about a half inch tile border.

4 pictures printed to your smaller than your paper so you will have a pretty decorated border. I had to finagle these with my printer because I am COMPUTER ILLITERATE and couldn't figure out how to work the darn thing to make them the size I wanted, where I didn't have to cut them down.

Mod Podge

Foam paint brush

Spray or paint on sealer to make your coasters waterproof

Directions:

Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to your tile. Lay your scrapbook paper down, smoothing it out from the inside, out to the edges of your paper . . . . . .I used my Pampered Chef scraper for my stoneware! lol Set tile(s) aside and go do some wrapping, bake some cookies, or take a moment and have a nice hot cup of coffee.

After your Mod Podge and paper layer have dried, apply another thin coat to the entire tile, making sure to completely cover the paper. Now you are going to put your picture right on top of your paper, making sure to again, smooth out the wrinkles working form the inside, out to the edges of your picture. Again, set aside and go do something FUN while it dries.

Now apply another coat of Mod Podge over your tile, completely covering the paper and picture. Set aside and go give your kiddos a big hug and tell them how much you love them! :> )

Ok, now we are down to the final steps. After your tiles dries, you are going to apply two (2) more coats of Mod Podge, allowing your tile to dry in between each coat. When they are completely dry, spray or paint on your sealer according to the manufacturers directions.

Now wrap up your handmade personalized picture coasters all nice and pretty. See....that wasn't that hard, was it? I know you will really like these coasters and end up making a set for yourself. I also bought bigger tiles and will either make trivets or get those little tabletop stands and put them up as pictures to decorate the piano!

Don't forget, if you make these coasters, please come back and leave a link so we can come by for a visit and see your beautiful work!

White Chocolate Christmas Candy

2011-12-20T08:06:00.003-05:00

If you have a sweet tooth, this is the candy for you! I was given this recipe by one of my Girl Scouts many years ago, and it has now become a family tradition in our home to make this every Christmas. It is so EASY, but sooooo ADDICTIVE!

To make our White Chocolate Christmas Candy, you will need the following:

1 - box Toasted Rice or Toasted Corn cereal
1 - bag mini pretzels
1 - pkg White Almond Bark
1 - bag M&M's
1 - bag of Peanuts - optional

First place all of your ingredients in a LARGE bowl

Chop or grate Almond Bark and melt using a double boiler. If

you're like me and don't have a double boiler, you can make one using a pot,

and a glass bowl that is wider than the rim of your pot, so the

steam when the water boils, will not get into your chocolate. That

will make it turn hard and lumpy, and it won't melt smooth enough for you to pour.

Put enough water in the pot that the bottom of your bowl touches the water.

Pour your melted Almond Bark into your mixture

Stir quickly, making sure you coat your entire mixture

Now you are going to dump your mixture out onto an area on your

table that is covered with wax paper, spreading your candy

out into a thin layer.

This allows the chocolate to cool faster. If you don't have wax paper like me,

a cookie sheet works just as well.

After your candy hardens, break up into whatever size pieces

you'd like.

Store in an airtight container. This is is a GREAT GIFT and looks so pretty

in a glass jar where you can see all the colors of the M&M's.

I hope you and your family will ENJOY our White Chocolate Christmas Candy as much as we do!

Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-12-18T06:30:00.009-05:00

I am linking up today with Katie Lloyd Photography for "Scripture & A Snapshot." If you would like to participate . . . . .

1. Select a photo

2. Add a scripture to it

3. Put the Scripture & A Snapshot button in your post

4. Visit Katie Lloyd Photography by clicking HERE and add your link to your POST!

Getting Ready For The Christmas Program

2011-12-17T10:29:00.001-05:00

Tonight is our first performance of "A Forgotten Christmas" at our church. In our program, one of our main characters is obsessed with details and lists, and EVERYTHING she does is on a clipboard. I saw some small decorated clipboards on Pinterest and thought it would be neat to make one for the program.

They are super easy to make. All you need are:

Clipboard
Scrapbooking paper of your choice
Mod Podge
Foam brush

After you have decided on your paper, lay out your design the way you want it on the board. I made my design just a tad bit smaller than the board so the edges won't come up. Then, put down a coat of Mod Podge. Next, lay your paper down on the Mod Podge, smoothing out all the wrinkles and bubbles, working from the middle to the outside edges. Allow to dry completely - this step really doesn't take that long. Next, apply a thin coat of Mod Podge on top of your paper. Allow to dry and repeat three more times.

I tried to get "MY LIFE" printed on the paper itself, but I used wrapping paper on mine and it was a pain to get it to fit right in my printer, so I just printed the words out and Mod Podged them on afterward.

If you design and make a clipboard, please stop back and leave a link so we can come and see what you have created!

Now I'm off to put together more treat bags and cookies for the program.

See you later!

Trimming The Tree

2011-12-16T12:18:00.001-05:00

Holy Cow

2011-12-15T10:11:00.000-05:00

Homemade Vanilla Coffee Creamer

2011-12-13T02:04:00.001-05:00

I LOVE to wake up and start my mornings on the front porch talking with God, drinking a nice hot cup of coffee while being serenaded by the beautiful birds. That's hard to do when the weather turns cold, so during the winter months, I enjoy sitting by a roaring fire. My Skippy Man is not a coffee drinker, so I don't have to worry about fighting him for the last of the creamer! WOO HOO!

I love my French vanilla creamer, but it can get expensive. I have tried making my own creamer before, liquid and powder, but they didn't turn out very well. I recently found a recipe for a creamer and I just had to try it.
Well, I made this recipe today and I absolutely LOVE IT!!! It is so easy to make, using only three ingredients.

To make this recipe, you will need:

14 oz sweetened condensed milk (store bought or homemade)
14oz milk (whole, lowfat, or skim)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (I used 1 tbsp of homemade vanilla extract)
a mason jar (quart size is perfect)

Add the condensed milk to the milk

Add vanilla

Screw lid on tightly and vigorously ShAkE
for a minute or two until well combined

Coming up next......VANILLA SUGAR!!!

ENJOY!!!

Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-12-11T00:09:00.000-05:00

I am linking up today with Katie Lloyd Photography for "Scripture & A Snapshot." If you would like to participate . . . . .

1. Select a photo

2. Add a scripture to it

3. Put the Scripture & A Snapshot button in your post

4. Visit Katie Lloyd Photography by clicking HERE and add your link to your POST!

Yodeling Cat - ROFLOL

2011-12-08T06:25:00.004-05:00

(PLEASE PAUSE MUSIC PLAYLIST ON SIDEBAR BEFORE VIEWING VIDEO.....YOU'LL BE GLAD YOU DID!)
LOL

Blessings

2011-12-05T17:20:00.001-05:00

Blessings come in many different forms...

They are in the laughter with friends...
...in the smile of a stranger
...in the giggles of a child
...in the message of friends from afar
...in the voices of your family from home
...in the words of encouragements

A blessing can be....
...time spent out in nature
...an hour in the couch watching a favorite film with that special someone
...being able to spend the day painting your friend's living room
...a chance to clean your house
...a KFC fried chicken dinner (that's what I call a HAPPY MEAL! lol)
...spare time for fb, blogging, playing Words With Friends, and more
...a moment to sit with a hot cup of coffee and read your favorite book or magazine

Believe it or not, having dirty dishes and laundry is a blessing.....it means that you have food to eat and clothes to wear!

Take time to be thankful for the little things in your life. No matter how small or insignificant they may seem, they are still BLESSINGS!

Please Pray

2011-12-04T09:11:00.000-05:00

Today we have to make a big decision. Would you please pray with us that God will give us clear direction, and give us the discernment we need to see and understand His will for us. But most importantly, that we be obedient and follow wherever it is He leads us!

Thank you for your prayers, my friends!!

Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-12-04T06:28:00.006-05:00

I am linking up today with Katie Lloyd Photography for "Scripture & A Snapshot." If you would like to participate . . . . .

1. Select a photo

2. Add a scripture to it

3. Put the Scripture & A Snapshot button in your post

4. Visit Katie Lloyd Photography by clicking HERE and add your link to your POST!

The Parade's A Comin'

2011-12-03T08:45:00.003-05:00

BRRRR....tis a little bit chilly this morning at 28* degrees, but I'm by the fire in my mom's old Winnie The Pooh robe so I'm all nice and cozy-toasty! After I finish my coffee, I'll be bundling up and heading out to church to work on the float the choir has entered into the Christmas Parade. We will definitely have a great time. The friends I'll be working with are a bunch of NUTS so I know we'll have a blast putting things together.

Ok, I need my friends to give me your opinion. I made these clothespins for my Etsy shop.....what do you think? Can you tell what the picture is? I made them with a puzzle-like design. A bit extra work, but I think they turned out AWESOME!!

I have to remember to take my camera with me today.....I have not been carrying it with me lately and I have missed so many awesome opportunities for some amazing photos....but NOT THIS MORNING! lol

So, what are you all doing with your Saturday? Whatever it is, I hope you have a great day!

I Think Our Relationship Is OVER!

2011-11-30T01:25:00.001-05:00

My Dearest Packing Tape~

First, I want to tell you how AWESOME you are and that I have used you for many years. Actually, you could say I LOVE YOU! You have been a life saver to me on so many occasions. You have held together ginormous, HEAVY boxes when we moved all our ~~junk~~ precious belongings here back in 1989, and also when our ~~rug-rats~~ beloved children got married and moved away......(sniff, sniff)......and you have fixed many torn ones as well. Especially right after Christmas when I have had to perform many a surgery on all those gift boxes the kids so selfishly tore apart, without any consideration as to how those poor boxes felt. They were just trying to celebrate the holidays right along with us and that's how they get treated?.....Oh, the HORROR!

During our relationship, you have helped me mend my broken nails so I could polish them oh so prettily to get out of dinner dish duty for an evening....(sorry, honey, I can't clean up or do the dishes...I just polished my nails! : > ) And lets not forget the countless times I have rolled you around my ~~fat~~ petite, little fingers as a make-shift lint roller. Having three cats, two dogs, two chinchillas, and seven chickens.....one tends to get very hairy, you know! Well, not from the chickens because they don't have hair or come in the house. Well, except that time when I was raising the peeps and they were living in a crate in the living room, but we won't get into that right now.

OOOOH, OOOOH, OOOOH, and remember that time you held up the hem up on my pretty blue skirt for me when that really cheap thread I bought at ~~Wal-Mart~~ . . . .the five-n-ten didn't? Awww.....such sweet memories we have together that will last a lifetime!!

However, at the moment I am saddened and at a loss by your performance and not sure if I will be able to make it through the rest of my day. But alas, poor Urich.....I must try. But first, I have one question for you.......If you can do such a FANTABULOUS JOB on so many other things.................

WHY CAN'T YOU HOLD MY READING GLASSES TOGETHER? GEEZ, LOUISE!!!

Sincerely,
Perplexed, Confused,
and DEEPLY Hurting in VA

Homemade Christmas And Etsy

2011-11-29T00:41:00.002-05:00

This Christmas, we are making just about all of our gifts for friends and family. To me, there is nothing that says "I LOVE YOU" like something made with your hands and from your heart!

We enjoyed a quiet evening last night, sitting together as a family, getting a jump on the gifts and getting some things ready to put in our Etsy store.

It was very relaxing and a lot of fun.....well, at least for ME it was

I like being able to spend some time with my two favorite men and it did my heart good to see them having some special father-and-son time as well. My guys sure know how to handle foam paint brushes and a can of stain! WOO HOO!

It was so much fun, even Kitty wanted in on the action! lol

Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe

2011-11-28T00:29:00.003-05:00

I don't know about you, but I just LOVE me some Red Lobster's Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Hey, isn't that the real reason you go there too? If we could afford to go, we would, but since it is rather expensive to take our family, we opted for the next best thing.....HOMEMADE!!!

We have been making these biscuits for quite some time and everyone just goes nuts when we do. They are delicious and much cheaper then actually having to go to the restaurant to get them!

For this recipe, you will need:

2 cups Bisquick mix (for my homemade Bisquick mix, click HERE
2/3 cup milk
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning

Preheat oven 400* degrees. Combine Bisquick, buttermilk and cheese. Mix until well combined. Divide dough into 12 equal portions (about 3 tbsp) and spoon onto sprayed pan. Flatten each biscuit slightly. Bake 18-20 minutes. Combine butter and Old Bay Seasoning. Heat mixture in microwave 30 seconds, then brush a light coating over tops of biscuits.

ENJOY!

Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-11-27T09:29:00.001-05:00

“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God!”
Psalms 20:7

I am linking up today with Katie Lloyd Photography for "Scripture & A Snapshot." If you would like to participate . . . . .

1. Select a photo

2. Add a scripture to it

3. Put the Scripture & A Snapshot button in your post

4. Visit Katie Lloyd Photography by clicking HERE and add your link to your POST!

Homemade Vanilla Extract

2011-11-26T08:41:00.000-05:00

I absolutely LOVE making my own homemade things. Whether it be a purse or some other craft project, laundry detergent, baking mix, or brown sugar. If you really love a product, you will more than likely be able to find a recipe for it and make it yourself. My friend G-Girl, has been making her own vanilla extract for YEARS and absolutely LOVES IT! She says the flavor is just AMAZING so you know I just HAVE to try it!

Making your own vanilla extract is very easy to make and it's fun to watch how the extract changes color the longer it sits. Commercial vanilla extract usually has simple syrup (sugar water) added to the extract to give it a sweet aftertaste. You can do this if you want, but if you are using the vanilla for baking, there really is no need.

To make your own vanilla extract you will need:

3 vanilla beans to every 1 cup of vodka or bourbon
glass jars with tight fitting lid
sharp scissor or kitchen knife

*Use kitchen scissors or a sharp paring knife to cut lengthwise down each vanilla bean, splitting them in half, leaving an inch at the end connected

*Put vanilla beans in a glass jar or bottle with a tight fitting lid (mason jars work well). Cover completely with the bourbon

*Give the bottle a vigorous shake everyday for the first two weeks, then every few days after that. Store in a dark, cool place for 4-6 weeks or longer to infuse the vanilla into the bourbon. The longer your extract sits and infuses, the stronger and bolder the taste. The beans in your vanilla, can last up to 7 years in the bourbon, so just keep replenishing!

After you use a couple of tablespoons, replenish what you have used again with bourbon, give a good shake, and store in your baking closet.

You can also make vanilla sugar by putting a split vanilla bean into a jar of white, granulated sugar. Great way to infuse the sugar with vanilla flavor for baking.

Here we are at the liquor store.

Now THAT was an experience! lol

The first time around, I bought vodka

Supplies needed

Slice the beans from about 1/4 inch from the top to the bottom,

slicing all the way through the beans so the bourbon/vodka can

get the flavor from the beans

This is the first day when a made a full bottle using vodka

Three beans to one cup

Fill with bourbon/vodka

Cover tightly

I made little jelly jars for gift giving

The bottle and the jar on the right were made with vodka

at the end of September. See the color difference from the

beginning of this post? The bourbon on the left, is

what I just made last week. As you can see, the color of the

bourbon is dark to start with

Store in a cool, dark place. Don't forget to sHaKe

vigorously every day for two weeks

These are ready to go. Mmmmmm, they smell WONDERFUL!

Time to get baking!

ENJOY!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T22:09:00.001-05:00

I’m Thankful for You Thanksgiving is the appointed time
for focusing on the good in our lives.
In each of our days,
we can find small blessings,
but too often we overlook them,
choosing instead to spend our time
paying attention to problems.
We give our energy
to those who cause us trouble
instead of those who bring peace.
Starting now,
let’s be on the lookout
for the bits of pleasure in each hour,
and appreciate the people who
bring love and light to everyone
who is blessed to know them.
You are one of those people.
On Thanksgiving,
I’m thankful for you.
Happy Thanksgiving! By Joanna Fuchs

Words To Live By....

2011-11-23T08:40:00.000-05:00

I've Gotta Have These

2011-11-22T15:00:00.002-05:00

The hen for me.......

And the rooster for Skippy!

AWESOME!!!

My Grandmother's Recipe Journal

2011-11-22T05:23:00.006-05:00

My grandmother, Foxy, was an AMAZING cook. I absolutely LOVED her macaroni & cheese and her apple tarts.....DELICIOUS! I can almost smell it baking in the oven......oh, the memories!

One of my most prized possessions is a recipe journal that belonged to my grandmother. Some of the recipes are newspaper clippings, some from boxes, and some from recipe cards, but my favorites are the ones that are hand-written by Foxy. It is so awesome to me, knowing that my grandmother's hands have been all over this book, inside and out.

The date on the inside front cover, when this book was started,
is 1926.....AMAZING!!!

You can see how much these recipes were used.

Oh, the stories this journal could tell!

I love the title on this page

The American Weekly.....Housewife's Food Almanack

I am so going to try this doughnut recipe this weekend and when I do,

I will be thinking of my beloved Foxy!

Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-11-20T20:37:00.001-05:00

I am linking up today with Katie Lloyd Photography for "Scripture & A Snapshot." If you would like to participate . . . . .

1. Select a photo

2. Add a scripture to it

3. Put the Scripture & A Snapshot button in your post

4. Visit Katie Lloyd Photography by clicking HERE and add your link to your POST!

WOW!!!!

2011-11-17T00:01:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, G-Girl and I sang at our church's senior luncheon, JOY (Just Older Youth). It was their Thanksgiving dinner and it was DELICIOUS! We really enjoy going.....everyone has such a good time. As you can see, it was filling up pretty fast.

Before we sang, I had the AWESOME privilege to meet a precious lady by the name of Margo. She is German, and reminded me so much of Nanny, my dad's mom, who was Norwegian. She has worked for the State Department, sings in the church choir, has children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She also speaks 5 different languages.

Oh.....and did I mention she is 105 1/2? Yup, you read it right....she is 105 1/2. Isn't she just BEAUTIFUL? When asked what her secret is, she says she doesn't eat potatoes or butter. Oh, I wish I had her will-power!

God bless you, Margo.......you are

AMAZING!

It's A Dirty Job, But Someone's Gotta Do It

2011-11-16T05:01:00.003-05:00

"A happy hen is a productive hen!"

Well, it's that time again to clean out the hen house. With the cold weather coming, we needed to clean out the old shavings, and pile in a good few inches of the new stuff. As you can see, a hen house can get very dirty.

Ahhh....I love my multipurpose snow shovel! lol

While I was shoveling out, Bethany decided it was a

good time to hop inside the nesting box with the eggs . . . .

count them . . . .

and then sit on them. I removed the eggs, put some fresh bedding underneath her,

and brought the eggs to the house. When I returned . . . .

someone was sound asleep.

I continued shoveling and took two trailer loads

to the compost pile at the edge of our woods

Underneath are the remains of our tomato plants

Ahhhh. . . .fresh, clean bedding.....and it's so.....thick and cozy!

The better to keep you warm with during the winter, my dear!

Since we were cleaning out and sprucing up, I thought I
would try and beautify the house a little for the ladies.

We had some extra bedding that had gotten wet (that's why it's orange)

and some brick just sitting around so I decided to put them both to good use.

I was going to put flowers in the beds but decided against it

Ok, ladies. . . .it's time to start headin' in

Goodnight!

Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-11-13T20:51:00.000-05:00

What's On The Menu

2011-11-12T17:47:00.000-05:00

Tonight's dinner on the farm:

Seasoned pasta with
sauteed garlic, shrimp, and bacon
left over 40 Minute Hamburger Buns

Dessert:
left-over
All-Chocolate Boston Creme Cake

(This menu is subject to change at any given moment!)

When There's No Tomorrow

2011-11-12T07:33:00.001-05:00

"For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death!"

2 Corinthians 7:10

Should God take you today, have you accomplished everything that you wanted to, needed to? Have you said all the things that needed to be said to those you love? I would LOVE to say that I don't have any regrets, but then I would be lying. There are things that I wish that I would have said to the people in my life that have passed on before me, but unfortunately, I will not have that chance and that weighs heavy on my heart.

I can't do anything about what has happened or what has not happened in the past, but I can do something about what will happen in the future. I WILL put God first and foremost in my life. I WILL have a closer relationship with Him. I WILL be more deligent in spreading the word of God and witnessing to others. I WILL make it a point to tell my family, as much as I can, how much I love them and how much they mean to me. I WILL be the best wife/mother/sister/aunt/friend that I can be.

When God decides that my time on this earth is through, I want to have a clean heart, empty of regret, but overflowing with love for my Lord and Savior, so I can then bow down before my God and praise His precious, holy name!

What's On The Menu

2011-11-11T16:17:00.001-05:00

Tonight's dinner on the farm:

Chicken BBQ
w/40 Minute Hamburger Buns

Seasoned French Fries

w/homemade fry sauce

Dessert:
All-Chocolate Boston Creme Cake

(This menu is subject to change at any given moment!)

Freezer Pickles

2011-11-11T08:23:00.003-05:00

I went searching the internet trying to find something to do with all the cucumbers we were blessed with, when I came upon this wonderful recipe for pickles you make in the freezer. Yes, that's what I said................THE FREEZER! As soon as I found this recipe, we just HAD to make it! It is super easy and produces a crisp, sweet pickle that goes well in salads, have on the side, or even use it on sandwiches. I have used it on my hamburgers and have even used it in my tuna salad and it is fantastic!

The secret to the crisp texture to these pickels, is the sugar. So whatever you do, DO NOT reduce the amount of sugar. This recipe works well with any kind of cucumber.

Ok, for this recipe you will need:

2 quarts cucumbers, peeled (optional) and thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon salt (table salt, canning salt, or kosher salt can be used)
1-1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup white distilled vinegar

In a large mixing bowl, mix cucumbers, onions, and salt. Cover with plastic wrap and set on the counter for 2 hours. Drain and put back into rinsed bowl. In separate bowl, combine sugar and vinegar, stirring well. Pour sugar mixture over cucumbers and toss gently. Put cucumbers into freezer containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze immediately. Pickles are ready in 3-4 days. Just thaw and eat. If you wish to freeze for a later date, these can be kept in the freezer for up to a year.

I have made this recipe where I have frozen the pickles, and also where I have made it and then put them in jars to be eaten whenever. I prefer to eat them without being frozen, however they are delicious either way!

An Easy Rainy Day Lunch

2011-11-10T12:39:00.003-05:00

We have been trying to get things straightened up somewhat since I have been putting it off the past couple of days, so a QUICK & EASY lunch was definitely on the menu. What could be more quick & easy than tortilla chips sprinkled with cheddar cheese and turkey pepperoni, nuked for about 40 seconds....YUMMM!

Kiddo is really enjoying his lunch today....and so is Momma! : > )

Friendship

2011-11-10T01:09:00.007-05:00

People today, have lost sight of what a true friendship is. So, in the sprit of my good friends, real life and on-line, I thought I would try and explain what true friends are.

Friends don't have to be exactly the same. They can have similarities, but they have their differences. We need to accept each other they way they are, faults and all. Be a WYSIWYG person (what you see is what you get), it's the best kind to be!

Friends should be able to argue! You can't always agree on everything. I think if you do, then you really are not being true. You have to be comfortable together. You should never feel nervous or uptight, or feel like you are walking on egg shells. If you do, something isn't quite right.

Friends love each other UNCONDITIONALLY! Sure, we have our liitle "tiffs", but when all is said and done, we forgive and forget. Believe in love at first sight because there IS the equivalent in friendship. You don't have to know someone for a really long time or really well to become good friends. Nor do you have to have met someone in-real-life. Many life-time friendships have grown with the only communication coming from chatting on-line or on the telephone.

Friends are FOREVER but only if YOU keep it that way! . Don't diss your buds, love them instead. And when they drive you crazy, love them that much more for being just a little bit different and maybe just a little bit quirky!

What's On The Menu

2011-11-09T16:35:00.001-05:00

Tonight's dinner on the farm:

BBQ'd chicken wings

Sweet corn

Zucchini oven chips

Dessert:
Ice cream of choice

(This menu is subject to change at any given moment!)

GOOD TO KNOW:

Not all chips have to be unhealthy and fat-laden. Zucchinis are more nutritious than potatoes, which are usually used for chips. Baking the zucchini cuts back on fat that is needed for frying.

What's In YOUR Closet

2011-11-09T08:59:00.002-05:00

This is what's in mine! lol

The Long Haul

2011-11-08T14:55:00.000-05:00

"Yet the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and set you on a firm foundation and guard you from the evil one!"
2 Thessalonians 3:3

Faithfulness can be described as being true to one's word, promises, or vows. God's Word provides many examples of people who remained faithful to the Lord in their work or call; but God Himself is perhaps the best definition of this character quality. As creator God, faithfulness is an attribute of His very nature. He demonstrates that attribute each day as He lovingly cares for us and meets our needs. The Bible describes God's faithfulness as infinite (Psalms 36:5) and everlasting (Psalms 119:90). Every morning, the Lord's faithfulness is new (Lamentations 3:23) and unfailing (Psalms 89:33). Even when we fail to be faithful to God, He remains faithful to us (2 Timothy 2:13).

Faithfulness is a character quality not easily found today. Christians in general, approach too many commitments with the option of, "Well, if this doesn't work, I can always get out." When life gets tough, we are tempted to escape from our responsibilities; but faithfulness means not forgetting the Lord in the good times, and not blaming Him in the bad. No matter where we go, we will have difficulties of some kind. What about you? Are you in your journey with Christ for the long haul?

Father,

Only You can give me the strength I need to remain faithful to You. Fill me again this day with Your power and help me remain true to You and the commitment I have made to my husband and my children.

In Your precious, Holy name.......Amen

What's On The Menu

2011-11-07T16:11:00.000-05:00

Tonight's dinner on the farm:

Caramelized Pork Tenderloin

Rice, steamed broccoli, and salad

Dessert:
Pumpkin Nut Muffins

(This menu is subject to change at any given moment!)

Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-11-06T19:24:00.000-05:00

A Dog's Life

2011-11-04T07:04:00.001-04:00

I think someone is

SPOILED!

The Blame Game

2011-11-02T08:59:00.000-04:00

"Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper,
but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy." (Proverbs 28:13)

Looking for someone else to blame when things go wrong in life is something we do often to escape from being held accountable. Do you blame others for the foolish things you do and for your bad choices? Do you point the finger and say, "If they hadn't been so . . . . or If they weren't here then. . . . I wouldn't have . . .?"

Whether it is our friendships, marriage, or homeschooling, God holds everyone of us accountable to faithfully obey Him in what He has commanded us to do. Blaming others is really trying to hide our own failings from God. The blame game first started in the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve, but we don't have to keep playing it in our home. We need to confess our sin instead of trying to "pass the buck" and be healed!

Father,

Thank You for Your forgiveness that You freely give to me. Help me to acknowledge that the fault lies with me when I sin and not others. Please help me to keep my heart clean before You. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Pumpkin Prayer

2011-10-31T05:38:00.000-04:00

~I have posted this before, but feel strongly I should post it again.. I think I will make this a yearly post!~

During the month of October, we see lots of scary ghosts, witches, gobblins, and hear scary stories being told. Why not tell your little ones about our Heavenly Father instead!!

"Pumpkin Prayer"

{cut off top of pumpkin}
Lord, open my mind so I can learn new things about you.

{remove innards}
Remove the things in my life that don’t please you.

Forgive the wrong things I do and help me to forgive others.

{cut open eyes}
Open my eyes to see the beauty you’ve made in the world around me.

{cut out nose}
I’m sorry for the times I’ve turned my nose at the
good food you provide.

{cut out mouth}
Let everything I say please You.

{light the candle}
Lord, help me show your light to others through the things I do. Amen

Prayer by: Liz Curtis Higgs
Photo courtesy of coldteablues13

Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-10-30T06:00:00.002-04:00

Homemade Starbuck's Caramel Apple Spice

2011-10-29T12:51:00.000-04:00

My daughter, Goose, just LOVES Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice, but the only thing is, it's only available for a limited time during the fall and winter season. Now if you have ever been to Bucks, you know that they are not cheap. We went there the other day and for a small drink, it cost me about $4.50. SHEESH! There has GOT to be a way to make these at home.

Well, I was surfing the blogosphere a few weeks ago, when I came across a blog post on "A Law Student's Journey" that stopped me in my tracks. WHAT IS THIS? COULD IT BE? WOO HOO, IT IS!! I had finally found a recipe for what else.........STARBUCKS CARAMEL APPLE SPICE! (insert the Mormon Tabernacle Choir singing the Hallelujah Chorus!) Could you tell I was a happy camper? :> ) The first thing I did was post the link on Goose's facebook page. Before I knew it, she had gone out and bought the ingredients! That's my girl!!!

This morning I went over to help her get the food ready for a party she was supposed to be having today, but due to the snow, it was rescheduled till next Saturday. We had everything we needed to make a crock-pot of this delicious drink, and I'm sure had we made that much, we would have sat and drank the whole thing! lol We made enough for the two of us and enjoyed it along with our breakfast.

To make this DELICIOUS Caramel Apple Spice drink, you will need the following:

**12 oz Apple Cider
**3 pumps Cinnamon Dolce ~ you can buy a HUGE bottle of it at Starbucks for about $6.95 or so
(1 pump = about 2 tbsp, but you can add more or less)
**Whipped cream
**Caramel sauce ~ the kind you buy at the grocery store works great, and it's cheaper too!

Pour your apple cider into a microwave safe mug (if using your microwave) and add your Cinnamon Dolce. Heat your mug for about 2-3 minutes, depending on your microwave, or you can heat it on the stove top. After your drink is heated, top with whipped cream and caramel sauce. Make it look real pretty. Remember, presentation is EVERYTHING! lol

Well, there you have it.....a homemade Starbucks drink at a fraction of the cost, and you can enjoy it in the comfort of your very own home, cuddled up on the couch, in your jammies, by a rip-roaring fire! :> )

ENJOY!

Chicken Chickens

2011-10-29T10:24:00.000-04:00

"Hmmmm. . . . what in the world is THAT?"

And that's as far as they got before they turned around and high-tailed it back inside.......and I haven't seen them since!

CHICKEN!!!!

YES!

2011-10-29T00:06:00.001-04:00

WOOO HOOO. . . . .SNOW'S A COMIN!

We are in a winter storm warning here until 6:00 pm tomorrow evening, with possible accumulations of 4-8 inches, 5-10 in the higher elevations. Now that's what I'm talkin' about!

I am so glad that we have a huge wood pile out in the back. Skippy was outside this afternoon, chopping, sorting, hauling, stacking, and covering. We went out to Food Lion afterwards and got a few of the snow essentials....milk, cocoa powder, and peanut butter cups! LOL!

LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW!!!

LOVE!!!!

2011-10-27T14:11:00.001-04:00

Most of you already know how much I LOVE MY WOOD STOVE! I am such a happy camper when the cold weather comes around. Not only because I love to see the change of the seasons; like the changing of the leaves, the brisk air, the amazing smells of autumn, or the beautiful snow in the winter as the awesome colors of the sunset dance across the top of the snow, but that I get to REALLY USE my stove!

There is nothing like curling up on the couch with my Bible, a blanket, a hot cup of tea right next to a crackling fire. Yes, I can hear the wood crackle and sizzle, but I also get to see it as well, thanks to My Skippy Man picking out one with a glass front. It is a wonderful time that lets me get in some "Laura Ingalls Wilder" time as well. I love the frontier/pioneer era, and always felt I should have been born back then. Using my stove gives me a little bit of a time-warp that I gratefully embrace with open arms.

As you can see, I made hamburgers the other night. I try and use the stove during the cold months to cook on as much as I can.

This morning when I woke up, it was 64* degrees. But not too long after that, it got dark, started to rain, and then got cold and windy. I started the stove earlier, but had an awful time getting it to really catch and get hot. Shortly afterwards, Skippy called and said, "If you make a fire, don't use the wood in front of the stove.....it's WET!" AH HAH! Now I understand why I was having so much trouble! lol

After I got it going good and hot, I put the coffee/tea pot on the top. This really helps in putting the moisture back in the air that the stove takes out.

This is actually good too for when I do the dishes. It takes hardly any time at all for the water to heat up. It saves on the electric bill, not having to heat the water. For this Frugal Females, that's a WIN-WIN situation!!

PLUS, there is also an added bonus: I have hot water for coffee/tea/hot chocolate at the ready......ALL DAY LONG!

I am using my special DISNEY PRINCESS mug my sister, Noony gave me a few years ago. It is one of my favorites. So today, I get to not only be "warm & fuzzy" but I have the pleasure of remembering wonderful times with my beautiful sister!

God Is Good

2011-10-27T01:00:00.001-04:00

"You are good and do good; teach me your statutes!"
Psalms 119:68

When the sun is shining and you have money in the bank and you're healthy and everyone thinks you're wonderful, it's not hard to believe that God is good. But when you lose your job or a loved one is diagnosed with a terminal illness or your church goes through a nasty split or your husband says he doesn't want to be married to you anymore, the Enemy will move in and cause you to question God's goodness.

The Truth is, regardless of the circumstances, regardless of what we feel, regardless of what we think, GOD IS GOOD, and everything He does is good!

WOO HOO!

2011-10-25T12:16:00.000-04:00

I am so EXCITED, can you tell? I made my very first sale in my Etsy shop......one of cosmetic bags!
WOO HOO! I am hoping to put more things up soon.

Do any of you have an Etsy shop? If you do, please leave a comment with your link so we can see your talents!

For Your Information

2011-10-24T11:22:00.000-04:00

I just read this very important article and HAD to share it with you....

Did you know that to satisfy your sweet tooth without triggering blood-sugar surges-and the fatigue that follows-try snacking on PEANUT M&M's. Yes, you read it here first, folks!

Research shows that the proteins and healthy fats in peanuts are so effective at stabilizing blood sugar, that a small bag of the candies delivers the same energy boost as a bowl of beans! AWESOME!

WOW.....we learn something new everyday!!

It's A Perfect Day For A . . . .

2011-10-23T15:09:00.000-04:00

It is 63* degrees and sunny....what a GLORIOUS DAY!

Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-10-23T06:31:00.000-04:00

Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-10-19T22:34:00.001-04:00

AMAZING Pepperoni Garlic Rolls/Bread

2011-10-19T11:07:00.000-04:00

“In the childhood memories of every good cook, there's a large kitchen, a warm stove, a simmering pot, and mom!”

This is a recipe I have been using for years to make the most delicious pepperoni bread you have ever tasted (at least in our house, that is). It is a very simple recipe that I make in my bread machine on the dough cycle and then let it rise in the bread pan and then bake. Mmmmmm.......the aroma! Your house will smell WONDERFUL!

For one (1) loaf, you will need the following, and this is the order that I put my ingredients in, which is according to the bread machine manufacturers directions, so please check your manual before starting. For this recipe you will need:

a tad less than 2 tsps yeast
2 cups of bread flour
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp non-fat dry milk
1 tbsp butter or margarine
3/4 cups warm water
1/4 - 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni (depending on personal preference, but we use a LOT)
2 tbsps chopped garlic (again, depending on personal preference and you can substitute garlic powder for fresh or jarred if you desire)

After adding ALL my ingredients, I select the dough cycle and let it go, which takes about an hour and a half for it to complete. I then take out the dough, shape it either into a loaf or section it and shape it into rolls. The possibilities are endless!

After the loaf/rolls are shaped, I put them into greased pans and let them rise to desired height. For me, that usually takes about 45 minutes as our house is warm from the wood stove and things tend to rise a little bit quicker.

Bake at 350 degrees. For the loaf - 20 - 22 minutes and for the rolls - 15 - 18 minutes. This particular night I had made both for dinner. As you can see, they came out GREAT! But I will tell you this, they don't last long!

A Prayer Request

2011-10-17T13:50:00.000-04:00

Skippy and I have an unspoken request that we have been praying very hard for awhile now. Would you please join us and pray that the Lord's will be done in our lives?

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH! Your prayers are greatly appreciated!

Finally Meeting A Bloggy Friend In Real Life

2011-10-15T11:50:00.002-04:00

As I posted last week, I was fortunate to be able to FINALLY meet a bloggy friend of mine I have known for some time. Her and her family are such wonderful people with kind spirits and gentle souls. We had so much fun together. If you get a chance, please hop on over to Nancy's blog, "Sorrows To Joy".....you won't be disappointed!

Nancy's daughter Kelsy took a picture of us that we just LOVED so I thought I would share it with you!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!

Scripture & A Snapshot

2011-10-12T13:52:00.004-04:00

Scripture & A Snapshot hosted by Katie Lloyd Photography

Feeling Blue

2011-10-12T11:13:00.002-04:00

WOW. . . . I can't believe how fast time flies. It has been 12 weeks since our baby New Hampshire Reds were born. They have grown by leaps and bounds over this short period of time it just boggles my mind! I don't remember our Amberlink chicks growing that fast, but perhaps they did. It has been hysterically funny watching them run around the yard, foraging for bugs. They LOVE IT when I bring special treats outside for them to eat. Cheese grits and oatmeal are their favorites. Chickens are such snackers! lol

Three weeks ago, Gena decided that her babies were old enough to fend for themselves, and dropped them like a hot potato. They would call for her, but she was more interested in getting back in with the flock, and reestablishing her place in the pecking order, which is ON TOP! I had read about how the mammas would turn their backs on their babies when their time being a mom was finished, but didn't realize how abrupt this transition really was. Man, we really DO learn something everyday, don't we?

Today is a day that I knew was a possibility, and I had tried to prepare myself, but that never really works, does it? Today I am feeling a bit blue and have been crying all morning as I had to say goodbye to my three New Hampshire Red babies, Nugget, Filet, and Drumstick. We knew that there was a possibility that one or all of the chicks would be cockerels, but I was praying that they would all be hens, which would give us another 21 eggs a week. UNFORTUNATELY, two of the babies are roosters, so we won't be able to keep them. I have always wanted a rooster....I love to listen to them crow. My Skippy Man, on the other hand, does not want roosters. They can make a lot of noise and he doesn't want to bother the neighbors....neither do I.

As some of you remember, we got the eggs back in the beginning of July from my sister, C. and her husband, CF. They have hens and roosters and said they would LOVE to take whatever roosters we might have. Skippy wanted us to keep the one hen, but she and the two boys stuck together like glue and I just don't have the heart to separate them, so they agreed to take all three. Hey, that works out good for them....they'll get extra eggs now!

It has been hard for me today......they are my babies. I have been with them every day for 12 weeks, holding them and loving on them. They had learned my voice and would come when I called them. And just Monday, Filet had just started to crow. Oh, that is the funniest thing......it sounded like he was trying to cough up a hairball, but oh, what a sweet sound it was to this mamma's ears!! :> )

I know that they are in good hands, are going to a wonderful home, and will get lots of love. I can go and visit them any time I want which is AWESOME! I know C. will love it since she will actually be able to hold these babies and love on them too, something her chickens won't let her do. I guess if my babies can give a little bit of joy into my sister's life......it's all worth it! THANK YOU, C!!

Goodbye, my sweet babies.....

MAMMA LOVES YOU!

I'll Bet You Didn't Know. . . .

2011-10-07T13:03:00.000-04:00

that we raised three baby chicks. . . . . . . . .in our living room! Every morning I would greet them and send them out on their merry way

and then in the evening, they would come back to the front door and wait for us to let them in!

They are now 11 weeks old and full of energy! lol

Aren't they adorable? :> )

I'M SO EXCITED!!!!

2011-10-06T12:49:00.000-04:00

It's a busy day on the farm this afternoon. My dear friend Nancy, her husband Gerald, and their beautiful daughter Kelsey, are coming to spend the weekend with us from Kentucky. I have known Nancy for quite a few years now from The Homeschool Lounge, Homeschool Blogger, and facebook. But the funny thing is.....we've never met in real life. We weren't sure that it would ever work out, but God had other plans. He has made it possible for them to come and visit us and we are THRILLED! We have really been looking forward to spending time with Nancy and her family and getting to know them.

Sweet Lord, I pray for traveling mercies for my dear friend and her family. I pray that our time together will be a blessing to all. In Your precious name I pray.....Amen!

Happy Birthday, To My Baby Sister

2011-10-05T16:19:00.001-04:00

HAPPY 43rd BIRTHDAY to my....

baking, sewing, husband loving, mom of 2 toting, laughing, reading, laundry doing, family loving, sarcasm throwing (wink, wink), walk taking , card sending, angel singing, smoothie making, hug giving, coffee drinking, coupon clipping, grocery shopping, animal loving, phone texting, Mocha Joe drinking, chicken raising, outdoor loving, care giving, chocolate eating, scone making, YARD SALE going, LOVING, baby sister, Cathy!

I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!

A Walk In The Woods

2011-10-04T07:32:00.003-04:00

I have been wanting to just hop in the car and DRIVE....heading down the back country roads, looking for photo opportunities of barns and farms, which I absolutely LOVE to shoot! Last Saturday, my boys and I were able to take a drive and spend some time together and relax.

Skippy made us a delicious lunch and took us on a picnic, and then on a hike up in the George Washington National Park.

I have to say it truly was BEAUTIFUL as the colors on the mountain had already started to change, unbeknownst to us being down in the valley.

I have to be honest and say, "I AM IN SAAAAD SHAPE!" However, I was able to make it to the top (woo hoo) but not without doing some serious huffin' and puffin' along the way. Skippy, God bless him, stopped, turned around to look at me and said, "Come on....you can do it....take smaller strides, Sasquatch!" At that moment, I was praying we were almost to the top so that I could push him off and over the other side, but thankfully, God made this mountain a little higher and we still had a ways to go.

A little while later, just before we reached the top, I stopped....looked at Skippy and said, "You really ARE trying to KILL ME........You do realize I don't have any life insurance, right?" "LOL!" was his response...."That's not why I brought you up here, you nut....it's so you can take pictures.....L-0-0-K!"

Stop. . . .breathe . . . .and look around......take time to look around.......you don't want to miss a single moment of God's amazing world!

Praying For My Husband Monday

2011-10-03T22:57:00.003-04:00

Today, I am joining Renee over at "GLOW ACADEMY" in Praying For My Husband Monday.

Sweet Lord, I come into Your presence to say a special prayer for my husband. Thank You for the blessing of a godly life companion. I pray that You would continue to grow in him a deep and abiding love for You. Guide him, I pray, as he guides this family; give him wisdom and understanding. Invigorate him with the knowledge of Your grace, and refine him with Your truth. I pray that I would be a helper, a source of encouragement for him; and I pray that he would find this home to be a place of rest and refreshment! I ask this all in Your precious name....Amen!

Homemade Foaming Hand Soap

2011-09-30T14:43:00.002-04:00

I have been making my own foaming hand soap for awhile now. I really like the foam kind much better than the liquid so I thought I would give it a try and see if I could make it. WOO HOO, it was sooooo EASY!

I used an old foam bottle that I had and just followed the simple steps below. . . . .

I know of a few people who also throw in small pieces of soap into a bottle of water and get the same results. I haven't tried that yet, but you know it's on my list!

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

2011-09-28T22:38:00.001-04:00

Before Prayer meeting this evening, I made these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins using a recipe I found on Pinterest.com. I have to say they are so good AND they are easy to make too! Actually, I was told that they are even better than the ones you can buy at Starbuck's! WOO HOO!

While I was making the batter, I discovered that I was missing not one, not two, but THREE of the ingredients I needed, so. . .I had to improvise. In this recipe, I made the following substitutions:

For the nutmeg ~ I used an extra 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon and 1 1/2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice

For the vegetable oil ~ I used an equal amount of cinnamon apple sauce

For the butter ~ I used margarine, but I will NEVER use it again when I make any kind of struesel topping, it crystallizes and gets hard

FILLING:
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
¼ tsp vanilla extract

MUFFINS:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. ground nutmeg
1 tsp. ground cloves
1 tbsp. plus 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
4 large eggs
2 cups sugar
2 cups pumpkin puree
1¼ cups vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract

STRUESEL TOPPING:
½ cup sugar
5 tbsp. flour
1½ tsp. ground cinnamon
4 tbsp. cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces

DIRECTIONS:
For the filling, combine the cream cheese, vanilla and confectioners’ sugar in a medium bowl and mix well until blended and smooth. Once blended, cover tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator.

For the muffins, preheat the oven to 350˚ F, and line muffin pans with cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, pumpkin pie spice, salt and baking soda; whisk to blend. In the bowl of an electric mixer combine the eggs, sugar, pumpkin puree ,, vanilla and oil. Mix on low speed until blended. With the mixer on low speed, add in the dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.

For the topping, combine the sugar, flour and cinnamon in a small bowl; whisk to blend. Add in the butter pieces and cut into the dry ingredients with a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture is coarse and crumbly. Transfer to the refrigerator until ready to use.

To assemble the muffins, fill each muffin well with a small amount of batter, just enough to cover the bottom of the liner (2 tablespoons). Spoon a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the very center of each cup. Divide the remaining batter among the cups, placing on top of the cream cheese to cover completely. Sprinkle a tablespoon of the streusel mixture on top of each muffin.

Bake for 20-25 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely before serving, the cream cheese filling will be very hot!

I hope you enjoy these muffins as much as we are!

Trying Something New

2011-09-26T13:23:00.000-04:00

I have ALWAYS loved taking pictures, doesn't matter what of, I just like to point and shoot. Sometimes, I don't even look, I just push the button! LOL It is amazing though, the things that you actually capture when you're not even trying! lol I have never thought of myself as being a "photographer" really, just someone who loves capturing those special moments of my family and friends.

About two weeks ago, my friend G-Girl, asked me to take some photos of her for the cover of an album she is working on, and also some family portraits. They are an AWESOME Christian family with hearts as big as their smiles!

These are some of the results of my first two "official" photo shoots. I love my bloggy-friends and value all of your opinions, soooo......please take a look and tell me what you think!

Sisters Are Great!

2011-09-23T22:48:00.000-04:00

My sister came over today with a surprise for me and I was soooo excited.....GOOSE BERRY PATCH COOKBOOKS!

WOO HOO!

I just love these. They are filled with so many neat ideas and recipes. I can't wait to make a cup of coffee and sit down at the table with these and RELAX!

Did You Know. . . .

2011-09-21T14:11:00.000-04:00

. . .I LOVE MY COFFEE CREAMER? I reeeeally do! I love it even more when I can get it on sale. The Bailey's creamer that I have pictured here, is normally $2.49 a bottle at Martin's, Food Lion, and/or Wal-Mart. Martin's had it on special one week for their savings card members for $1.50 a bottle. My sister and I each had $1.00 off coupons, bringing the cost of each bottle to $.50 each. WOO HOO! Needless to say, we stocked up! These freeze really well too!

Did you know that your coffee creamer is not just for coffee anymore. I use my coffee creamer in place of milk when I make pancakes, French Toast, waffles, desserts that require milk, and so many other things...it gives it an extra boost of flavor.

You can also use the powdered creamers as well:

*Mix two parts creamer to one part cold milk, add sugar and vanilla if desired. Whip until stiff; it makes flavored whipped topping for desserts.

*Add 5 teaspoons of coffee creamer to a cup of water, and it can be a replacement for milk in recipes.

*Use the liquid creamers to thin down ice cream when making milk shakes, home made blizzards, or add to smoothies. You can also use both liquid & powder for malts and hot cocoa.

Do you use flavored creamers in more than just your coffee?

Firin' It Up!

2011-09-20T13:11:00.000-04:00

Sunday was rainy and a bit chilly so Skippy thought it was a perfect day to fire up the wood stove to make sure everything was working right. So, off to the yard he went to finding some kindling and getting some dry wood. It's a good thing I made a kindling pile last week, huh? lol

At first there was a little bit of smoke inside, but after the temperature rose, it dissipated. We will have to go up on the roof and put the metal brush through to loosen up the creosote so we can clean it out. This is not a difficult job......just takes a little bit of time.

While My Skippy Man was working on the stove, I was in the kitchen cooking up a pot of homemade chicken and noodle soup. I never follow a recipe for this........I just add whatever seasonings I want to taste.

During the winter season, our stove is in use EVERYDAY!!! Not only does it heat our home, but I use it to cook on and heat water for doing the dishes, making our liquid laundry detergent, etc.. It saves a BUNCH on our electric bill. This year I will find a way to make some kind of baking box to go on the top, around the pipe. How awesome would THAT be? Actually, I would absolutely LOVE and old fashioned cast iron cook stove......SOME DAY!

Do you have a wood stove? If you do, I'd LOVE to come by see it! Please leave a comment and a link back to your blog so I can come and see you!!

Strawberry Freezer Jam

2011-09-19T15:47:00.000-04:00

Goose and her friend Marshmallow came over the other day to make some strawberry jam. Marshmallow wanted to make something special to give to her teachers. Freezer jam is QUICK, EASY, and DELICIOUS!

For this recipe you will need:

2 cups crushed strawberries (buy 1 qt. fully ripe strawberries)

4 cups sugar, measured into separate bowl

3/4 cup water

1 box SURE JELL Fruit Pectin

WASH & RINSEWASH & RINSE 5 (1-cup) plastic containers

and lids with boiling water. We used canning jars because they were being given out as gifts and would be eaten right away. Dry thoroughly. Stem and crush strawberries thoroughly, 1 cup at a time. Measure exactly 2 cups prepared fruit into large bowl. Stir in sugar. Let stand 10 min., stirring occasionally.

MIX water and pectin in small saucepan. Bring to boil on high heat, stirring constantly. Continue boiling and stirring 1 min. Add to fruit mixture; stir 3 min. or until sugar is almost dissolved. (A few sugar crystals may remain.)

FILL all containers immediately to within 1/2 inch of tops. Wipe off top edges of containers; immediately cover with lids.

Let stand at room temperature 24 hours. Jam is now ready to use. Store in refrigerator up to 3 weeks or in freezer up to 1 year (in plastic containers). Thaw in refrigerator before using.

ENJOY!!

Peanut Butter Brownie Squares

2011-09-14T16:17:00.003-04:00

"All you need is love. . . . . . . but a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt."

~ Charles M. Schulz ~

I was looking for a little something special to make My Skippy Man yesterday and I came across these on the "DUNCAN HINES" website......Peanut Butter Brownie Squares. I thought, how can I go wrong with chocolate and peanut butter!

Skippy really liked these brownies, especially with vanilla ice cream. I liked the brownie part, however, I thought the frosting was too sweet and needed a stronger peanut butter flavor so next time, I will decrease the amount of powdered sugar. If you make these brownies and reduce the amount of powdered sugar, don't forget to reduce the amount of shortening and milk as well.

For this recipe, you will need:

Brownies:

1 pkg Duncan Hines® Chewy Fudge Premium Brownie Mix
1/2 cup Crisco® Pure Vegetable Oil
3 large eggs
1/4 cup water
Crisco® No-Stick Cooking Spray

Frosting:

1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/3 cup Peanut Butter
1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp milk
2 tbsp Butter, softened

Drizzle:

1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tbsp Crisco® All-Vegetable Shortening

Baking Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 °F. Spray only the bottom of 13x9-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Prepare and bake brownies according to package directions for cake-like brownies. Cool 5 to 10 minutes.
For frosting, combine confectioners' sugar, peanut butter, milk and butter in small bowl. Beat at medium speed with electric mixer until blended. Spread over warm brownies.
For drizzle, place chocolate chips and shortening in microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high power for 1 minute or until melted. Drizzle over frosting. Allow chocolate drizzle to set before cutting into bars.

ENJOY!!

In Good Company

2011-09-13T01:10:00.003-04:00

"Friends are the most important ingredient in this recipe of life!"

Author Unknown

This past weekend we had the pleasure of not only attending a Beth Moore Simulcast at our church, but to also have some WONDERFUL FRIENDS come and visit with us.

I think most of you may recognize the BEAUTIFUL LADY in this picture with me.....this is Andrea from "Arise 2 Write". She has come down before and attended some of our other Women's Ministry activities with us, but she usually attends them alone, but this time. . . . .

she brought her AWESOME husband and he attended the Beth Moore Simulcast right along with us.

We spent the weekend just relaxing, talking, and of course, eating. LOL! It was truly welcomed ..... a much needed time of fellowship.

We were even given a rip-roaring fire by none other than My Skippy Man. He really knows how to have a beautiful ending to a beautiful day!

AWESOME COUPON

2011-09-12T11:23:00.000-04:00

Now Hobby Lobby Offers you even more savings!

If you are a Hobby Lobby fan, this is an AWESOME DEAL!! From now until the 17th, this coupon is valid for one regular priced item, per day, per customer, at 40% off. To print your coupon, get your mobile coupon, or to get your on-line code, please click the coupon below!

Oh, how I wish I lived closer to a Hobby Lobby!

What's On The Menu

2011-09-09T15:47:00.001-04:00

Tonight's Dinner on the Farm:

Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Scalloped Vadalia Onions

Yummy Macaroni Salad

Dessert:

Fried Nutella Quasadillas

(This menu is subject to change at any given moment!)

This Is My . . . .

2011-09-08T17:19:00.000-04:00

KITCHEN

This is where I like to spend most of my time......

doing the dishes......

taking something warm, ooey gooey, and full of LOVE

out the oven for my family......

or just gazing at pictures of my family and remembering good times.

Another Way To Recycle

2011-09-06T11:58:00.000-04:00

If you know Kiddo, you know he is ALWAYS eating or drinking something. He has a habit though, of not always finishing what he pours, and would wind up putting it in the fridge. I'm glad he did that instead of pouring it down the drain, but it was usually in the door where it was easily knocked over.

One day I was making YUMMY Macaroni Salad and used up the last of the mayonnaise. "What can I do with these plastic jars? I thought to myself, "I hate throwing them away!" (light bulb going off) I know....we can use these for our drinks and then just put the lid back on 'em and stick 'em back in the fridge. Now we won't have to wear sweet tea upon opening the refrigerator door!

IT'S A GIVEAWAY

2011-09-06T09:48:00.000-04:00

Renee over at "GLOW ACADEMY" is having an AUTUMN BLOG GIVEAWAY from now until Tuesday, September 20th. You will have the chance to win your choice of either of these two "Handmade by Renee" clutches, which come with a pair of matching earrings, also handmade by Renee.

The official rules are as follows:

1. You must be a follower of "GLOW ACADEMY" to participate in the giveaway.

2. You must leave a comment on THIS POST stating that you have become a follower.

3. If you would like additional entries in the giveaway, simply blog about it, post the link within your post, then leave a comment back on THIS POST with a link-back to your giveaway post.
4. The last day to enter is Tuesday, September 20th. Winners will be chosen at random on Friday, September 23rd.

GOOD LUCK!

Happy Labor Day

2011-09-05T14:00:00.000-04:00

It Figures!

2011-09-04T16:20:00.003-04:00

I tried making a loaf of bread using a bottled mix. I guess this is what I get for trying to make beer batter bread on a Sunday!

It exploded all over me and the counter.

LOL!

Meet My Bible

2011-09-04T10:57:00.002-04:00

Renee over at "GLOW ACADEMY" asked me if I would participate with her today in "MEET MY BIBLE" I have posted this in the past, so some of you may have already seen this.

I would like you to
Meet My Bible..................................

How old is your Bible? My Bible is 29 years old now.

Why did you chose this Bible? I didn't choose mine, it was a gift.

Do you highlight/mark passages in your Bible? Yes, I do highlight/mark in my Bible.
If so, what is your system for marking passages? I highlight each passage I have read or highlight passages that I feel have touched my heart in some way. It is my goal to have my entire Bible highlighted. But you know, I have found that a system works best if you actually remember to bring your Bible with you to church! lol

Do you have notebooks to record things? No, I don't. Our pastor provides us with an outline of his sermon so I use that or paper I bring with me, but I think that's a really great idea.
Where is your favorite spot to read your Bible? Outside on my front porch, when the weather permits. I love to sit and look at the beautiful mountains while drinking a hot copy of coffee, listening to the birds serenade me, while talking to my precious Lord!! There is NOTHING like it!
Are there any special thoughts about your Bible you want to share? My Bible was a gift from my sisters; Dawn, Victoria, Barbara, and Cathy when I was 17. It is all the more precious to me now because our sister Victoria has passed away.

At that point in my life, I was going to become a Salvation Army officer but then realized that it was not God's calling for me, but everyone else's. I knew that there were other ways that I could serve our Heavenly Father.

I know that everything in our lives happens for a reason. Looking back now, I realize it was God's calling for me to become a wife to my DH and a mother to my three beautiful children. He knew that later on I would need to stay home full-time with Kiddo.

GOD IS GOOD...............ALL THE TIME!!!!!!

Compost Bin And A Walkway

2011-09-03T17:02:00.000-04:00

Last year, my AWESOME brother-in-law, CF, gave us a bunch of pallets to use for the chicken run. We have a bunch left over, piled up by the shed. I was looking on-line for different uses for these pallets, when and I found two really great ideas.

The first one I found is for a compost bin. (http://ducktruckcomposting.com) I have been wanting one for some time now, but they can be quite expensive. It is going to be so easy to put together! WOO HOO!

The second one is a walkway I found on the Funky Junk Interiors blog. Isn't it so pretty? This one is on a slope, but I think it will be just as nice in my front yard, leading up to the front door.

So, what would you make if you had extra pallets lying around?

Good Morning!

2011-09-03T10:13:00.000-04:00

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days!" Psalm 90:14

Sending you a hot cup of coffee and prayers for a wonderful day!

The Tomato

2011-09-03T06:05:00.003-04:00

“I planted, but God was causing the growth!”

1 Corinthians 3:6

Tomato so juicy
so firm and so round
I can hardly believe
you came from the ground

Filled with vitamins
light and Love
my pallat delights again
in my mouth you I shove

upon the white bread
sprinkled with salt & pepper
layered with lettuce
and it tastes even better

Bright red and meaty
that's how I like it
not tainted with toxins
that leave me decrepit

No wicked witch
with a poison apple
I've made the switch
and chose to go natural

Corporations can make
their "ugly" tomato
but when I bake
I'll go from farm to table
Author Unknown

Fall Yummies - - AGAIN!

2011-09-02T01:00:00.002-04:00

Good morning, everyone! Two years ago this week, I posted this very entry. Since then, every year around this time, I get requests for this one again, so here it is, for your eating pleasure!

"Bon Appetit"

I just love fall and all that goes with it. The cool crisp air, the colors, the smells, the activities.....EVERYTHING! But I think what I love the most about the cool weather seasons is the food....soup in particular. :> ) The crockpots come out in full force and the aroma of my house during the day while dinner is cooking itself is AMAZING!

I have been making taco soup now for over a year and everyone that eats it LOVES it and doesn't go away hungry. I normally make it in on the stove, but today I used my best friend (my crockpot) to make it!

For this recipe you will need:

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 large onion, chopped
2 cans diced tomatoes (I used 1 large can)
2 cans navy beans, drained (I used one navy and 1 black)
1 can pinto beans, drained (or you can substitute for another
navy or black bean)
1 can corn, drained
1 can chicken broth
1 pkg Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix
1 pkg taco seasoning (I use the store brand)

Brown meat and onion, drain. Add your diced tomatoes, all of the beans, corn, and chicken broth and stir.

Add the Hidden Valley Ranch dressing packet, stir

Add the taco seasoning packet, stir

Cover and cook on low for approximately 3-4 hours. I put mine on this morning about 11:00. My house smells amazing and if Skippy is going to be late for dinner, it's no problem.....I'll just turn it to warm!

ENJOY!