Christmas Bells

Sunday School was amazing this past week. The amount of hours that Eric spends in preparing for our class is so evident in his teaching and passion. Not only do his lessons inspire me to grow spiritually, but I usually learn something historically as well. This week was no different. Eric shared the history behind the famous song "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day". If you're ready for a small history lesson, allow me to share.

Longfellow was the most popular poet of his day and is generally regarded as the most distinguished poet the country had produced. A friend once wrote to him that no other poet was so fully recognized in his lifetime. Many of his works helped shape the American character and its legacy, particularly with the poem "Paul Revere's Ride". He was such an admired figure in the United States during his life that his 70th birthday in 1877 took on the air of a national holiday, with parades, speeches, and the reading of his poetry. Henry had his share of suffering as well. While in their own home, his wife's dress caught fire while standing near the heater. Henry awakened from his nap to her screams and was able to put the fire out. Unfortunately, she was too badly burned and passed away the next morning. In Henry's attempt to save his wife, his face was badly burned which resulted in the beard that adorned his face, becoming his trademark.

Almost a year later, Longfellow received word that his oldest son Charles, a lieutenant in the Army of the Potomac, had been severely wounded with a bullet passing under his shoulder blades and taking off one of the spinal processes. Filled with grief, from the past years events, Longfellow penned the words of the poem "Christmas Bells" on Christmas Day of 1864:

I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

Till ringing, singing on its way
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head
“There is no peace on earth,” I said,
“For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.”

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
“God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men.”

Several months later, the poem was decorated with musical notes and sung by an all boys choir. Today, there are over 15 different versions of this beautiful song. This happens to be my favorite:
Enjoy the holidays as you worship Jesus Christ, the son of the living God!

My Favorite Essential Oils

Several people have asked me about the essential oils I use and some of their benefits. I decided to list my top oils and how to apply them for certain illnesses. There are over 160 oils that Young Living carriers, so this is obviously just a scratch on the surface. However, the oils listed here are ones that I make sure I am never out of. In fact, most of them I always have two bottles on hand!

Lavender:
Antiseptic, anti-fungal, relaxant, anti-inflammatory, reduces cholesterol and good for respiratory infections Also helps with high blood pressure, pms, (works great with my 14 year old daughter) skin conditions, eczema, stretch marks, burns, hair loss and insomnia

Peppermint:
Anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, pain reliever, curbs appetite, respiratory infections, arthritis, cold sores, headaches, digestive problems, nausea, skin conditions, back problems, constipation, breath freshener and drains sinuses. This is my all-time favorite oil!

Lemon:
Antiseptic immune stimulant, improves memory and relaxation. Helps with varicose veins, anxiety, acne, digestive problems, sore throat and urinary track infections. I use this daily on my kids right before we start school. I love to diffuse this oil during test days!

Balsam Fir:
Throat/sinus infection, fatigue, arthritis urinary tract infections relaxant

Cedarwood:
Hair loss, antibacterial, ADHD, eczema and allergies

Melrose:
Topical antiseptic, clean/disinfects cuts, scrapes, burns and rashes

Oregano:
Anti-bacterial, anti fungal, immune stimulant, arthritis, respiratory infection and digestive problems

RC:
Apply to chest, neck and throat area for relief from breathing issues related to asthma, colds, bronchitis, sore throat, sinusitis, coughs and upper respiratory infections. It decongests sinus passages, combats lung infections and relives allergy symptoms. Excellent oil to diffuse and inhale. This has stopped my daughter an mother in-law from an asthma attack more than once.

I hope this small list has given you a good, detailed account as to what oils can help with certain ailments and how to administer them. I have only been using the oils for about 1-1/2 years now, so I am by no means an expert, but would love to answer any questions you have. The 8-1/2 x 11 desk reference book I just bought is amazing and can probably answer any question looming in your mind! Although I am a distributor with Young Living, I do not run this as a business, but just pass the word on how amazing these oils are. They truly have replaced numerous pharmaceutical medications in our household. I sell to my friends the wholesale price that I pay, so if you would like to order anything, just let me know.

Happy healthy living, my friends!

Adam's Character Sketch

As the last day of school looms in the air, I assign my son an end-of-the-school-year paper. Words cannot begin to express the exuberant amount of joy that overtook his soul. Because of my crafty, witty words and over-demonstrative role playing, I was able to capture the significance of this paper with such flair that Adam was racing to the pencil box in search of a newly sharpened writing instrument...ok, ok, you have officially witnessed my first and foremost earthy gift - sarcasm :)

Seriously now, with all that aside, I would like to present to you Adam's short essay on Laura Ingalls (we are studying all eight books as part of our curriculum this year):"Laura Ingalls is a charming girl who has a blind sister that she cares for so much that she wanted her sister to go to college. Laura has always been her "eyes", meaning she tells her what she sees. She has a mom and dad who she respects and honors. She also cares for them and loves them. Laura has a baby sister named Grace. Laura watches out for her and take good care of her and has always thought Grace was beautiful. Laura never liked to be civilized. She was always wild and free and likes to be outside - just like me!"

Sentence structure has always been a challenge for Adam - even 6 months ago, writing a letter to a friend would take days and days of rough drafts and constant erasing. Considering grammar and writing are his weak spots, I think he did a pretty good job capturing the true image of Laura. Good job, little man - momma's proud of you!

By the way, son, have an awesome three week Christmas break!

Suggested Christmas Traditions

On Monday of this week, I posted a Facebook status asking for everyone's Christmas tradition. I really liked a lot of the responses I received, so I thought I would compile them here for all to read and possibly gleam a new tradition for your family.

I have added our personal traditions along with some of my friends:

* We attend 2 candlelight services on Christmas eve - one at 8 pm and one at 11 pm. Following the 11pm we go to Ihop for breakfast - then home to open presents at 2 am. On Christmas night we go to our church to cook and serve the homeless of OKC. We offer food, movies, stockings and a Christmas to remember

* One friend told me that they allow their children to pick one small item out of their stockings each night before Christmas Day. I liked that idea and decided to find 12 small gifts (the stocking gifts I buy are always under $5) and incorporate that into our 12 Days of Christmas Theme. I somehow disguise the items that would be have been obvious just by feeling inside the stocking!

* We always make a birthday cake on Christmas Eve and write "Happy Birthday Jesus" on it and then consume it for breakfast with our egg casserole - it's a day of eating unhealthy so we pull out all the stops!

* On Christmas morning, we read the story found in Luke and then pray together. One of the boys play a Christmas song on the piano or guitar while we all sing together. It's such a relaxing and reverent time just before the gifts are handed out.

* My husband plays "Santa" and only gives each child one gift at a time. We do not have this "hustle bustle" of paper flying everywhere while the whole event is over in 15 minutes. Each person has their own time where everyone else is watching to see what they received. A million pictures are taken and the whole process usually lasts over an hour!

* Our children only receive three gifts and we do not spend a lot of money. Most of the gifts given to our friends and grandparents are hand made which makes the family time before Christmas memorable as well.

* On Christmas Eve, we sing some fun Christmas songs and then the kids each get to open one gift (picked by mom and dad). It's always PJ's so that they have new jammies to sport for pictures the next day!

* We play Christmas music while we decorate the house and tree. Brownies are always tantalizing us with their incredible smell while baking. When they are finished, we always take a break to devour a warm brownie before we finish 'decking the halls!'

I hope you enjoy your holiday festivities this year and possibly borrow a new tradition or two. Remember that Christmas actually means "more of Christ" so from our family to yours...Merry Christmas!

Crock Pot Meatballs

These are very easy to make and extremely tasty. Though the sauce has some unusual ingredients, I promise you that your family will love these. You can make them with 100% ground beef or do pork sausage instead of turkey sausage. Sorry - no picture this time (I hauled them off to our ladies Christmas party and totally forgot!)

1-1/2 lbs of ground beef
1 lb of turkey sausage
2 cups cracker crumbs
2 beaten eggs
1 cup milk
salt and pepper

Mix all together and form balls. Place on greased cookie sheet and bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.

Simmer these items in the crock pot while the meatballs are cooking:
2 bottles chili sauce
10 oz grape jelly
1 cup water

Once meatballs are finished cooking, place them in the crock pot sauce and stir. Simmer for 1-2 hours. 30 minutes before serving, add 8 oz of sour cream and mix well.

This is one of those recipes that is even better warmed up the next day! My husband loves to take the leftovers and put them on a toasted hoagie bun with some provolone cheese and green peppers...yum yum!

Thanksgiving Eve

If you follow me on Facebook, you are already aware of the eventful Thanksgiving Eve we had at our house. Let me just say that it was one-of-a-kind...history in the making for the Flint Household!

I'll let the cat out of the bag from the get-go and show you the picture...To answer the questions running through your mind right now:

1. No - Allen was not doing a redneck brake job
2. No - we were not trying to put new tires on ourselves because we are just that frugal
3. Yes - that is our neighbors brick from her landscaping
4. No - we do not live in downtown Los Angeles
5. Yes - this is how we started our Thanksgiving Eve day at the crack of dawn

So....what did happen? We got hit. We were the victims of useless boys who prowl the streets at 2 am looking for someone to violate. I hate crime and I hate satan.

My husband walks out the door at 6:45 am to start his car and this is what he found. He couldn't even speak when he walked back into the house and motioned for me to 'come' with one hand.

We had just purchased those tires - they weren't even two months old. However, they did leave us one. Apparently something spooked them since the last tire was half off with the lug nuts in the grass. Yippee - one tire left!

Why am I writing this blog? To share with you our frustrations so you can share in our anger? No. So that you will feel sorry for us and speak curses to those that did this? No. In case you find three wheels for sale on the black market and can return them to us? Yes! (hehe!)

Seriously now, the reason I just have to share this is because of my husband's response not more than 45 minutes after the incident was discovered.

Since it was the big Thanksgiving luncheon at work and so that he didn't have to take a vacation day, I took him to work. I had a gazillion (yes, that is a word!) things to do and needed my car. So, here we are in the car alone. I'm still peeved. The tears keep rolling down my cheek totally out of my control. I feel this righteous indignation well up within me. I'm as pale as a ghost. My hands are quivering from my internal shakiness. I'm wondering what financial predicament this puts us in.

My husband? He is all smiles...like a little school boy. WHY???

He turns to me and says, "Honey, why are you so upset?" At this point, I was ready to give him the one-two with my fist! How in the world could he ask me such a stupid question? Is it not obvious - is he not in cahoots with me? Well, no, he wasn't.

The next sentence out of his mouth left me baffled. Angry at first, then convicted, completely amazed and lastly...totally speechless (and for me to be speechless is quite the feat!).

With an all-teeth smile on his face, he lovingly comments, "It's a good day, sweetie. It's crazy but what's done is done. It could have been a lot worse. They could have broke into the house. No one got hurt and it's just money. We are blessed, hon."

There you have it. My husband - the epitome of a natural-born optimist. This is definitely one of those moments when I can say that I wish I were more like him. What an incredible outlook. He sure does challenge me - in a healthy, spiritual way.

Thanks, babe, for bringing perspective to a horrible situation. You are right. Everyone is safe and we do have insurance. Although our money tree out back is dry, God has always provided for us. I have no doubt that He will come through with flying colors in this situation, too.

I am so blessed to be able to spend the rest of my life with you...you are the best :)

Like Mother, Like Daughter

I'm really kind of shocked but rather pleased. Even in my ripe age of 43, my daughter wants to look just like me! What I think is so funny is that I felt the same way she does when I was her age. My mom and I shared clothes, shoes and purses. I can even remember being upset with my mom when she chopped all her hair off without telling me. I was left with long hair while she had short hair. I wanted to be just like her (of course she took me to the salon the very next day!)

Victoria is the same way. We both picked up the same shirt in different colors at the same time! Whenever I buy a piece of clothing, she always asks if it is for her, too. There are some things that look too mature for her, but for the most part, we share shirts, skirts and some pants (can't do shoes since her foot is bigger than mine!) I bought myself a sweater dress about three weeks ago in off-white at the mall. Yesterday, she bought the exact same dress in purple at Kohl's! After we got home and kept looking at her dress, we decided that it looked very familiar. Then I remembered my dress (since the weather hasn't been cold enough, I hadn't worn it yet, so it actually slipped my mind!) Sure enough, we are twins again!If I straighten my hair, she wants hers straightened. When I curl mine, she is at my door waiting for her turn. The day before we left on our vacation to California, I had 8" of my hair cut off. I walked in the door and Victoria had the same look I had with my mom 30 years ago. She wanted her hair layered, thinned and styled like mine! Within hours, I had her back at the same salon so we both ended up sporting new 'dos' for our westward bound trip!

So, history repeats itself in the Flint house and if the truth be known, I am rather honored at her desire to mimic me. I know one day all of this will change and I will truly be "too old" for her style. For right now, though, I am going to sit back with a smile on my face and try not to get upset when I can't find my favorite shirt in my closet!

Sifting Epidemic Alert!

"Wow - I've really had a hard month."

"I just can't believe the summer we have experienced - trial after trial."

"I just keep wondering...when will this all end?"

"Okay, Lord....enough is enough."

"What else does God want to teach me? I've never had a year like this!"

I'm just curious how many of you have either uttered these sentences (or the like) yourself or have had a friend say them to you? Not only has my year been unbelievable, but at each turn, I constantly hear my fellow christian friends saying the same thing. I've heard statements similar to the above three times just this week from very dear friends of mine.

Why?

There has to be a reason why God's children are being tried and tested - even more so than ever before. I realize that our current 2010 situations do not compare to the persecutions of the early disciples but it does seem to be more prevalent than ever.

Possibly God is preparing us...perhaps we are in need of massive pruning as Satan continues his constant trek to pull us down and alter our commitments to the one true God.

I have always used that word - pruning. Then just today I met with a friend for a brief moment. She, too, has had a challenging year. As she prepares her mind and spirit for her young son's surgery tomorrow, she commented that she was being sifted again.

Sifted? I mentally stopped in my tracks and was speechless. She told me that she used to say pruned but that she felt sifted was a more appropriate word for what the Lord was doing in her life. After all, when you sift something, you are trying to separate the good from the bad - remove all impurities. Wow!

According to Webster, the definition of sift is to scrutinize, inspect, search or probe. To examine closely. I would have to agree that it sounds like that is exactly what the Lord is doing to our character...examining it closely and removing all impurities. Maybe that's why James instructs us to "count it pure joy for the many trials that we face for it is through the testing of our faith that develops perseverance."

Thank you, my friend, for being a vessel of the Lord today and shedding new light on what God is doing with his Children. Maybe we don't beg for the character training and sifting, but we should welcome it and learn from it. After all, He does know what He is doing and never makes any mistakes!

Southwest Skillet

One of my closest friends, Crystal, gave me this recipe last week. Even though my family is not thrilled with beans and rice mixed in with other foods, everyone absolutely loved this recipe! It is so easy and quick to fix.

Southwest Skillet

1 lb ground beef - seasoned
1 T chili powder
10 oz beef broth
1/4 c water
1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained (I used navy beans but I'm sure any kind would be fine)
3/4 c uncooked instant brown rice
1/2 c shredded cheddar cheese

Cook ground beef with chili powder and seasonings; drain fat. Stir in broth, water, tomatoes, and beans. Heat to a boil. Cover and cook for 10 minutes on low heat. Remove from heat. Stir in rice. Cover and let stand 5 minutes or so. Top with cheese.

Serve with tortilla chips, flour tortillas or eat it just as it is! Can top with sour cream and salsa for even more flavor!

Thank you, Crystal, for sharing the recipe and for the beautiful picture!

Basil-Roasted Red Pepper Spread

1/4 cup drained roasted red peppers
5 pitted black olives, chopped
1 tub (12 0z) cream cheese
1/4 cup lightly packed fresh basil
1 clove garlic
Handful of sliced almonds
Crackers

Chop peppers and olives and set aside. Blend cream cheese, basil and garlic. Clean cream cheese tub and line with plastic wrap. Spoon 1/2 cup cream cheese mixture into tub; top with olive mixture and then remaining cream cheese. Press firmly into tub. Refrigerate one hour. Unmold onto plate and discard plastic wrap. Top with nuts and peppers. Serve with crackers.

(Now my notes on how I will change it for the next time...I could not find the 12 oz cream cheese tub so I just used 1-1/2 blocks and found a wide cup to press it into. I really don't care for the marks that the plastic wrap left. Next time, I will find the tub or something smaller and wider and just pack it in there. I'm thinking it may just 'pop' out or with the help of a knife around the edges, it will easily fall out. I will also use more peppers and 2 garlic cloves. It was very tasty and was consummed within 15 minutes but I think it needed more flavor. This was very easy to make and definitely received an A for presentation!)

Jesus is Calling...

I just have to share my devotion from the other day. It was too powerful to keep to myself! It is from a special book called Jesus Calling that a friend gave to me. I read three different devotions each morning in addition to the Bible, but I especially love this book because of its uniqueness. It is written in first person which means it is as though Jesus were sitting on your footstool, face to face, speaking life into you.

The words are from missionary Sarah Young's personal prayer journal. After many years, she decided to record what the Lord had laid on her heart in hopes of forever changing those who read it. I truly do cherish it each day I pick it up.

"Do not let any set of circumstances intimidate you. The more challenging your day, the more of My Power I place at your disposal. You seem to think that I empower you equally each day, but this is not so. Your tendency upon awakening is to assess the difficulties ahead of you, measuring them against your average strength. This is an exercise in unreality.


I know what each of your days will contain, and I empower you accordingly. The degree to which I strengthen you on a given day is based mainly on two variables: the difficulty of your circumstances and your willingness to depend on Me for help. Try to view challenging days as opportunities to receive more of My Power than usual. Look to Me for all that you need and watch to see what I will do. As your day, so shall your strength be."

May the Lord bless you today and may your strength and peace come from Him.

Thankful for Facebook!

I truly never thought I would say this and I know it may seem odd, but I am SO thankful for Facebook! I just absolutely love it! Strangely enough, it seems to be my guidance and personal counselor at times. Why? Because of my dear friends and the encouragement I receive from posting a simple sentence as my status.

Once Facebook became another family member, it didn't take long before I was massively addicted! I struggled with utilizing self-control as I wanted to be with my new BFF for hours and hours. I could learn so much in such a little time with my new friend. I could post pictures and share with the world my precious family and all of our adventures. I could write what's on my heart and with a simple click, hundreds of people could read what I penned. I now had the ability to send a quick note to multiple friends that I otherwise would never have communicated with. It's so easy and user friendly and non-intrusive. I have reconnected with people I haven't heard from or seen in 20 years. Within 10 minutes, I can write on 10-15 friends wall to let them know I am thinking about them. That would have been over an hour phone call if I didn't have Facebook!

Of course, the newness has worn off and now Facebook and I have a healthy, relaxed relationship which I have come to adore :)

I just want to say a BIG 'thank you' to my friends who take the time to make a comment about my status. Most of the time, I post things that are just plain fun or alerts about sale items. But there are times when I am frustrated with something and will type a statement that lets you know I'm struggling. My last status about teaching my son math is one example. Thank you, Deanna Shrodes - your words were just what I needed to hear that day. I now have a new perspective this morning and fresh, life-giving words ready to share with my son.

Not only is it beneficial to know that others feel my pain and are praying, but just as important are the words of encouragement that permanently lie on my wall for my viewing and anyone who visits me. Those that have taken the time to write from your heart usually touch mine in a way that convicts me (in a good way!) or brings a tear to my eye. To those I say - "thank you"!

I love you all, my friends, and dear Facebook...thank you for making your way into my home. You have been a blessing as well :)

Hats Off to My Man!

I've written several blogs lately about my family and how thankful I am for them, but none have been specifically tailored to my soul mate...the man who changed everything. My hubby met me when I was 18 and full of life, energy and ideas. I flat-out told him that I had no intentions of ever marrying or having children. Oh, such foolish words!

So, here you are honey...this ones for you :) I love you because....

* No matter what, you always pray with me every morning before we separate

* You are supportive in everything I do including all my crazy ideas and new rules!

* You have proven over and over that you are my biblical covering and protector

* Even though I may not like it at the time, you give me a reality check when it comes to parenting and steer me down a different and better path!

* You not only have provided wholesome, organic venison for our table, but have taught both your sons as well

* You are the daddy that your little girl adores!

* Your special Sunday morning breakfast dates with the kids are priceless

* You are intelligent, logical and full of common sense as well as compassionate, understanding and intuitive to my feelings

* After 20 years of marriage, you still want the best for me and enjoy our alone time!

* You have financially provided for our family WELL above my expectations

* You are goal-driven which means you are always thinking about our future

* Modern day Good Samaritan - that's who you are. I've lost track of how many people you've helped that were stranded on the side of the road

* You still enjoy kissing me :)

* You're not too proud to admit your faults or willingness to change when the need arises

* Even though you've only been to the dentist 4 times in 14 years, you have perfect, white teeth!!

* Those 11:00 at night Walmart runs you do for me...unbelievable!

* The volunteer time at our church and your commitment level - surpasses anyone I know

* You fix nearly everything with our cars and the house...hardware, plumbing, woodwork and electrical - what a boat-load of money you have saved us!

* You can cook a mean egg sandwich!

* Most important of all...you have never left the toilet seat up so that I would fall into the bowl!!!Thank you babe, for who you are and for allowing the Lord to transform you into an incredible man of God. I love you more than you could ever imagine.

I look forward to another 20 years with the only one who could have ever put up with me for this long! There's no one like you, my love!

Character Trait of the Year...Patience

I HATE being sick. I think that is a blanket statement that everybody can probably say amen to. But I really hate it. I have always bragged that I am rarely ever sick and that I have only been to the doctor 5 times in the 14 years we have lived here.

However, 2010 managed to change everything for me. If you've read my previous blogs, you know about my other incidents starting in March...esophagus issues, sliced open forehead demanding stitches and massive kidney stones requiring three laser surgeries. I thought I was finished; ready to move on with my "healthy" life and get back on track.

Then last week, my body decided to pass a nice-sized stone that was left over from the blasting - 7 more hours in ER...ugh. (my husband asked if we could get a member discount from the hospital!) I finally get through that only to acquire what they think was the Norovirus 6 days later from eating at Cheesecake Factory with my girlfriends.

OK -- ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!

I'm still puny, weak as a kitten, fever and body aches, but I think the worst of it is over. It would be rather uncouth for me to describe in detail how awful this virus is, so let me just say that you don't EVER want it as long as you live! So...guess what I'm learning this year?

Patience is something to treasure.

Being in control is really out of my control.

Do the best you can and leave the rest up to the Lord.

Don't ever take your health for granted.

Be thankful for your incredible family and how you can all be there for each other.

Oh, and one more...never eat out at a restaurant again! Ok, I'm sure that last one won't stick, but it's the way I feel right now!

That's all I have to say for now. Back to the couch I go since it has taken me over an hour to type this blog!

Let me challenge you to look at the positive and negative events that transpire in your life and see what the Lord is trying to teach you...I believe there's always a golden nugget in there somewhere :)

What Foundation are You Setting?

My kids have really been on my mind lately. I am constantly in a state of wondering what else I need to teach them and 'do they know enough.' Truth is, they are not toddlers any more. At 12, 14 and 17, they have their own thought process and way of thinking. They need further explanations with each question they ask and the questions are quite thought-provoking now! There are just so many thoughts to sort through as a parent, home educator, spiritual trainer, counselor, mediator, etc.

Did I lead them down the right path? I know what I taught them, but did my own personal example just crush what they've heard me say for years? I always try to point them back to the cross but what did they think when they witnesses my own sins in action? If I talk about and demand mutual respect then why don't I always give it to them like I expect them to treat me? Are they curt with each other because I was like that with them just the day prior?

So many questions...so few answers.

I've noticed that our home education hours are more Biblically led. We talk about our devotions during breakfast and even the sentences that I dictate are spiritual in nature. I have this overwhelming passion to give them such a strong moral foundation and I don't believe that even at their age, that I am finished yet. My 12 year old son asks often for us to come together and pray - several times a day. This is good! He is already so intuitive that he knows when things don't 'feel' right and that the answer is prayer.

Though I am far from perfect in any area of my life, I do feel that I am extremely blessed with three incredible children that love the Lord.

Nothing makes a momma more proud than when someone compliments your child. I think the Lord knew I needed some extra warm fuzzies this week and so He sent some special people my way. I'm sure they didn't even realized they were being used by the Lord.

Little comments like, "Wow, your son sure is polite." "Does he ever NOT smile?" "He is so mannerly." "She has such a sweet spirit and I love her smile." "I can't believe your 17 year old still says Mr. and Mrs. when addressing people. That is so rare these days." Sometimes complete strangers utter these words, which make me just giggle inside! Only two days ago, I had the special treat of experiencing my own children myself. I witnessed that even though they are normal kids who argue and get punished, when the rubber meets the road, they rise to the occasion.

My pain started at 10 in the morning and only got worse as the hours progressed. That's when the transformation started. I watched my children turn into incredible servants - the event demanding it and they were there. They waited on me hand and foot and even cooked lunch with me shouting directions every few minutes! When the pain was too great, my eldest drove me to ER where I spent the next 7 hours passing a kidney stone. (Definitely not on my list of fun and exciting ways to spend your day!)

A smile drew across my face when I entered the kitchen at 8 pm. The house was clean, dishes done, tile vacuumed and their school work completed (as much as they could!)

After I hugged and praised them, I went to bed feeling the Lord's embrace around my body. They are good kids and I am proud to call them mine. I have always said that I want them to grow up and be a blessing to people. That day...they were a blessing to me.

If you haven't done this today - go hug your kids and tell them how special they are and what a treat it is that God gave them to YOU!Thank you Kyle, Victoria and Adam - I love you...to the moon and back!

Chile-Egg Bake

I found this recipe and just had to try it! I have made Quiche' before but the kids all hate it. This was a cross between Quiche' and an omelette and I am happy to report that it was delicious and passed the "kid test"!

10 eggs
4 oz shredded mild cheddar
4 oz shredded Monterey Jack
1/2 cup flour
16 oz cottage cheese
4-oz can diced green chiles, drained
1 tsp salt
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 tsp onion powder

Mist a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, beat eggs on medium until pale yellow and doubled in size. Toss cheese with four then add to eggs. Add remaining ingredients until combined.

Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or until center is firm.

For those that know me, you'll remember that I am always tweaking recipes. I only did 4 tablespoons of butter and since I didn't have unsalted, I just used regular butter. I totally forgot about the onion powder (which I don't think the kids missed) and to make it more fulfilling, I added 1/2 pound of low-sodium turkey sausage. Next time, I will half the recipe since it was a lot for just the four of us.

You could make it up tonight and stick it in the fridge so it is ready to pop in the oven in the morning...just a thought :)

Soft Pumpkin Cookies

These made my mouth water...they are more like individual small “cakes” but oh so yummy! Super easy recipe for the junior bakers in your life :)

1 can 100% pure pumpkin (a 14 oz can)
2 medium eggs
1/2 cup of applesauce
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 package spice cake mix(size: 18.25 ounce)
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves

(NOTE: I used 2 teaspoons of cinnamon and instead of canned pumpkin, I always use the pumpkin puree I have in my freezer from cooking pumpkins and squash after each Thanksgiving. Also, I think I'll only use 1/4 cup of applesauce the next time as they were a little 'too' moist for us)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees . Grease two baking sheets. Beat the pumpkin, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla together in a large mixing bowl. Stir in the cake mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Drop by spoonfuls on greased baking sheets. Bake in preheated oven until tops are firm when lightly touched, 8 to 10 minutes. Cool and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

I honestly can't remember what I did the other day, but my daughter asked me what I was doing and how did I know to do that. "Ummm...I don't know...I've just always done it!" Not much of an answer but it got me thinking about all the tricks, tips, substitutions and shortcuts that so many of us use. Where did I learn all this stuff? Although some of it was trial and error, a lot of these ideas came from my friends, books and magazines. So, I thought I would share a few of my favorite tips and their origination. This is a book that MUST don your bookshelf! I bought this about 13 years ago but can't tell you how many times I have re-read it! Mary Hunt is the founder, editor and publisher of Cheapskate Monthly. It is broken into categories such as Family, Food, Home, Travel, Auto and Money. Easy to read, understand and use; the tips will leave you with your mouth wide open while gasping, "What a great idea!"

Another source of my tips and cheap substitutions is the All You Magazine from Walmart. I refuse to pay the counter price, so last year I found a years subscription for $2 - for the whole year!! Not only it is chocked full of great articles, awesome tips and recipes, it has a clothing section sporting the latest trends and anywhere from $50-$100 in coupons!

Without turning this blog into a book, I will mention just a few of my secrets :)

* Instead of buying dishwashing detergent at $1.78 per 20 oz, make up your own with 1 cup Borax, 1 cup baking soda and 1/2 cup kosher salt. This only cost .81 per 20 oz

* Best way to remove baked-on bits of food from your glass pans? A rolled up ball of tin foil (can even be a used piece of tin foil - go green all the way!)

* Shave your legs, ladies, with hair conditioner that you probably already have and save $4 from not buying shaving cream

* Save all the bones from a roasted chicken. Please them in a pot of water with a bay leaf, a sliced onion, celery and carrot to make awesome chicken stock. Freezes well too!

* Your recipe calls for white wine and you don't have any? Use apple juice

* Don't buy expensive buttermilk that you will only use one cup of for that special recipe. One cup of regular milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar will do the trick (let stand for 10 minutes)

* No molasses? Use honey (it's better for you anyways!)

* When you find summer fruit at an awesome price (like .88 for grapes), buy 5 lbs or more. Once they are cleaned, freeze them in pint size baggies for fruit all year round. I do this with bananas, strawberries, blueberries and grapes. Great for smoothies too!

Oh, how I could go on and on and on! Saving money, being frugal, finding better ways, refusing to let the retail industry steal my money...so many goals!

Treat yourself today, do your family a favor and go buy this book! Keep it right by the Bible and watch your daily life bring joy and satisfaction! Love you all :)

Where is Your Will Power?

I have always said, "I don't have ANY will power!" Which is why I try not to buy cookies, candy or unhealthy snacks. Not only do I not want my children to eat this stuff, but if it is here, I will eat it myself!

I hate this about me. I wish I had more self-control. I'm always trying to work on "something" but self-control in this area is not what I have ever desired to work on.

Then something just snapped in me.

Have you ever had that happen? You don't really know where it comes from or how it happened or what was said, but all of the sudden you just wake up one day and KNOW that you need to make a change and today is the day!

That is exactly what happened to me four weeks ago. Little by little I have put on a few pounds and then a few more pounds over the last 5-6 years. Then I gained a little more extra this summer with all my kidney stone issues. I wasn't happy with my body and nothing fit. I have never dieted a day in my life, so this was all new to me. But I did it!

Along with some other minor adjustments, I decided to cut out all sugar and carbs. Boy was I in for a rude awakening! I ate more sugar than I realized (including honey) and the carbs...well that was just ridiculous! Now, I eliminated rice, potatoes, bread, crackers, chips, pretzels, corn products, tortillas, and the list goes on and on.

I am here to say that I am VERY happy with the results! I've lost what wanted to along with an 8" total loss around different body parts.

Although I haven't looked like this for a long time, I thought it would be hilarious to post a picture of me 14 years ago!It looks worse than it is since I just had my baby girl, but it amazes me how your body can go through so many transformations!

Hold onto your belt buckle, because that's not all I wanted to say! This was more than just a diet for me. This was Character Training Boot Camp. I discovered that I DO have self-control...I just never utilized it before! It is within me but it was buried so deep that I thought it never existed. Although I'm pleased with how my clothes fit now, more importantly, I'm pleased that the Lord found a unique way to prune me a little bit further. He's just so cleaver :)

Here's a better picture of me with my mom taken just a few weeks ago. I think I like this 'me' better!Denying ourselves. It's not something we typically discuss with our friends. Can't say I've ever heard a sermon on it. But it does build character and shapes us into stronger, more determined people - it's a great life lesson for you and your children.

I think I'll look for something else to deny myself of just to see what the Lord has in store for me!

Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Next to apple pie, this is probably one of my favorite recipes to make and take to special events or while hosting a party in my home. It's very simple and although it's extremely unhealthy, it's so good for the soul while you are eating it!!


2 cups flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1 cup sugar
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla
8 ounces sour cream (1 cup)

Topping:
1/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Into a medium bowl, sift together flour, salt, baking soda and baking powder.
In another mixing bowl cream together butter with sugar until fluffy and light; add egg and vanilla and mix well. Add half of the dry ingredients, mixing just until flour is blended. Blend in sour cream then stir in remaining dry ingredients.

Spread half of batter lightly into a greased 9 x 13 pan. Sprinkle half of topping and spread with remaining batter. Sprinkle with remaining topping. Bake at 325 for 40 to 45 minutes.

Enjoy and then make sure you fast the next day :)

Thank You for The Change, Lord!

I have finally escaped from my hole. I truly cannot believe that I was there that long and how thick my walls were that I so earnestly built.

I know that I did what was best for my family and me at the time but enough is enough.

I need people back in my life.

My life was completely different when I first started home schooling 11 years ago. With a first grader and two babies demanding my attention and a husband who was constantly traveling, attending a mom's night out, home school meeting or even a social gathering was completely out of the question. To add to my situation, I was blessed with two deaf children. I quickly discovered that I was the only home school mom in this situation, so obviously no one understood my life or my daily struggles, right? On a small and manageable scale, resentment and bitterness slowly crept in. In addition to my ungodly mindset, the close friends that I had began to move away.

The result? 100% seclusion. After all...what could they offer me? Without any prayerful consideration, I have said no to teaching Sunday School, being the coordinator of our girls group at church, joining the worship team, being the home school leader, leading the greeters at church, taking over Prayer for Cops Ministry, participating in any home school field trip, etc., etc. My family was top priority and they needed me. It has taken me years, but I have learned that withdrawing from everything was not the right way to handle my life.

Fast forward from 1999 to 2010. "You've come a long way, baby!" doesn't even come close to explaining what has happened to me the last few months. I've been deeply humbled and have successfully climbed out of my hole. It all started with a Power Up Worship service at our church. I was the first one in line to receive a special touch from the Lord, yet He did more than just touch me.

The two ladies in charge began to explain my life to me - in great detail. Funny thing is, I had never shared even a sentence with them about my struggles from the past 10 years. It was truly a Divine appointment from the Lord. I wept as the Lord said, "Enough is enough. You think you are trapped in a room with no door and are completely alone. Not only is there a door - I have opened it for you. It is time to walk through. You have too much to offer and I have blessed you..." I stayed about an hour later than anyone else receiving more prayer and expelling more tears. I was long overdue for a meeting with God.

He cared enough about me to not only show up to this worship service but to speak to me specifically. W O W!!

I had an old friend visit our church recently. She pulled me aside and asked what in the world happened to me! A little flabbergasted, I questioned her as to her meaning. She said, "You're different. You look peaceful and free. I've never seen you worship like that before. Obviously the Lord has done something in your life - please tell me what it is!"

Tis true!! I HAVE been set free! I found flexibility five years ago. Things aren't so black and white. I'm learning more each day to let God control my activities and to do my daily routines with love. I'm investing more into the character of my children. I am back on the worship team after a six year sabbatical. I have joined the board with my Home Educators Group AND I attend just about every meeting there is! Back to school picnic, Newcomers Tea, Moms Night Out and every training and encouraging seminar possible!

Why? Because I need it and so do my children. They need a plethora of friends and I need to be encouraged daily by those who continue to do the difficult task God has called them to do - parenting and educating.

I'm so excited! I love failing forward and can't wait to see what else God has in store for me and my family.

My challenge to you...be more flexible than I was. Adopt a godly mandate and rely on it daily. Allow the Lord to humble you and embrace the friends He has placed in your life. Weather you home school or not, listening to the Lord's prompting is something that you will never regret. God made you on purpose for a purpose and to sit in a hole is not it!

Thank God almighty I'm free at last :)

Home Made Noodles

I thought it was high-time I shared my moms famous home made noodle recipe. I've had so many friends ask in wonder..."You can make noodles? I thought you only bought them at a store!!" Not only can you make noodles - they are so easy that anyone can!

Homemade Noodles

1 beaten egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 cup white unbleached flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour

Combine all ingredients and stir with a fork until stiff dough forms. Flour the counter and roll dough very thin (you'll have to use some muscles here!) We like thin noodles, but if you want them more like dumplings, then keep them thicker. Let stand for about 20 minutes. With a dull knife, slice the dough into strips and let dry for a minimum of two hours or as long as all day. As they dry, the noodles will begin to curl up.Once the noodles are dry, break them up and throw them into a pot of boiling water to cook for about 10 minutes.

My favorite recipe is just to make chicken noodle soup. So, I toss these noodles into a pot of chicken stock with pieces of chicken. Add some salt, pepper and fresh garlic with a tad of flour to thicken the broth. Eat it in a bowl as soup or on a plate with some green beans and mashed potatoes for a meal that will leave you feeling like a bit of Heaven just visited you!

Happy eating!
Rhonda

It Was a God Day!

The prompting began last night and grew in intensity during a home school question-n-answer meeting I had attended. The Lord confirmed it in my spirit during my morning devotions as to what my day was to consist of.

It was going to be an unusual day. One like I have never had before in my 12 years of educating my children at home. So, what did the Lord speak to my heart about?

To put all the educational books away -- GASP!

Seriously?? No math, grammar or spelling? But they must practice typing everyday and what about dictation and science? It was true...The Lord wanted the day completely devoted to Him. He wanted me to do nothing except teach from His word, work on character traits and talk about serious, heart-felt issues like modesty, diligence, guarding your heart, and their moral values.

I opened my Bible and guess where the Lord led me? Galatians 5:19-23. I won't quote the entire text here, but it starts with, "When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, your lives will produce these evil results...but when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, He will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.. Here this is no conflict with the law."

Thus the beginning of our day was spent on the couch for 35 minutes talking about these scripture verses and how important they are to our lives - all before breakfast was even consumed.

With great anticipation, I explained to the kids what the Lord had told me. Their eyes were bulging with shock trying to understand exactly what this meant for them - the pupil...

Well, the day is over now and I will have to say that it was probably the most rewarding day we have ever had. As I put my daughter to bed, she wanted to know if we could have a "God Day" every week! So you want to know what our day looked like? I thought you'd never ask :)Once their chores were finished, we read the Bible for about 40 minutes. Then I started drilling them on some fun Bible Quiz Flashcards. We went to the bookshelves and pulled out some books we had about God or moral issues. We read I Wonder How God Hears Me and a few stories from Hinds' Feet on High Places (arranged for children).Right before lunch I brought out my three volume set of Read Aloud Bible Stories from the Moody Bible Institute that I used to read to them when they were little. They were once again captivated by the pictures just as they were at such a young, tender age. We decided to pick a Bible character that they remembered or found interesting. After reading about them, they let the artist within them come alive on paper! I had them mesmerized by my personal testimonies and enthralled with each true-to-life story that was told. We ate lunch on the floor while watching a missionary video called Stephen's Test of Faith.

Next was the Clarksons book called "Our 24 Family Ways". I have had this for years but with so many other books, it just wasn't being used. Today it happily made its appearance. It completely amazed me how one topic can bring about so many questions and the different rabbit trails you can venture on. I actually took notes as to what we talked about so that I could relay everything to daddy.

The spectrum of discussions? Addictions, regret, denying yourself, modesty, protecting your heart, your moral warehouse, movie and book selections, peer pressure, leading instead of following, purity, inappropriate billboards and public displays at the mall, no guarantee of tomorrow and God's commands and promises. Then we began our unit study on character traits. I will write a separate blog about this awesome book, but it is called "What Every Child Should Know Along the Way".

The best topic was explaining what we believe as a believer in Christ and why we believe what we believe. We actually ran out of time, but will write out our beliefs on paper tomorrow.

The end results were truly amazing. Inspired by God's and led by God. It's incredible how well your day can go when God is in control.

Are we behind in our school work and schedule? What schedule? (Haha!) We made an immense amount of progress today. I actually feel we are further ahead mentally and spiritually than if we had our noses in the books.

Thanks God...for caring, for the gentle nudge, for giving me the right words, for my children's open hearts and minds and for being such a God of order.

Blessings,
Rhonda

Treasures from the Past

During my moms visit a few weeks ago, she brought me a boat-load of stuff wanting to pass it along to the next generation. I just had to share three of the treasures that have special meaning to me and my family. This was my moms rocking chair that was given to her as a toddler for Christmas. She saw it in the Sears Catalog and asked her daddy to get it for her. My moms family was extremely poor, so a purchase of this amount was out of the question. The little bit of money that they had was set aside to replace the ripped black tar paper that covered the walls before the siding could be put on. Winter was approaching so to keep the tiny house warm, this was a necessity. However, against my grandmother's wishes, grandpa took the money and bought the chair for his baby girl...my mom said it was a very cold winter! The chair has been untouched with the original appliques still on it. We now have it in our office and sit in it daily (well, at least those of us who can 'fit'!)

This toy box was also my mom's given to her when she was about five. I would like to share the unusual history with you...my mom had an uncle who worked in a wood shop as a casket maker. Since he knew that my moms family didn't have any money to speak of, he took the basic construction of a baby casket and created this toy box for her. It has a small removable shelf inside, a chain to keep the lid in place, handles on the outside and flower appliques on the top and sides. My mom didn't come to learn the real story about this toy box until she was a grown adult. It will now adorn Adam's room at the foot of his bed.

This last picture is also very special to me. My grandpa made this when he was in his 80's. He was quite an extraordinary and talented man - true to the character traits that his generation possessed. With only a 6th grade education, he became a Union Painter and Refinisher by trade. He was still climbing 20 foot ladders to fix his roof at 92 years old and playing 9 holes of golf at age 93. He didn't even stop driving until he was 97! Grandpa always enjoyed working with his hands and making things out of wood. In his early 20's, he began making grandma little keepsake boxes with inlaid wood. He actually cut the wood pieces out by hand, gluing them together to make the boxes. Sometime in his 80's, grandpa decided to create one of his last projects. He chose to make five inlaid wood tables - one for each of his children. My mom has now passed her table along to me. What a treasure to have! My precious grandfather went to be with the Lord at an incredible age of 100 years young! This is very significant since grandpa told people for years that he would live to be 100; for some reason this was very important to him. The Lord granted his wish...he passed away at 100 and two months old!

Thanks mom - I love having history in my home!

Blessings,
Rhonda

What Do You Do?

Completely unaware. I wish I had known.

When I started bearing children 17 years ago, I had no idea it would feel this way. I'm not sure I would have changed my mind on the desire to fill my home with little people that share my last name, but a few clues along the way might have helped my mindset.

I hate being clueless. I don't consider myself a control-freak but I really would have liked a little more preparation than I received.

I'm sure you feel this way as well. I know you'll stand and shout 'Amen' when you're finished reading this.

I just never knew my heart would ache so badly when my children are hurting.

My precious little ones aren't so little any more. At a ripe age of 12, almost 14 and 17, they feel things more deeply than ever before. Disagreements with a friend cut to the core. Feeling left out and abandoned bring them tears that stain their pillowcases. Other children who do not understand their disability and stare, cause resentment in their minds wondering why they aren't 'normal'. Sinful actions which result in painful punishments bring remorse - something they are not used to feeling. Special relationships gone sour leave them confused, rejected and overwhelmed. Add a high dose of testosterone and puberty changes and I will show you a household with emotions that run at a new level - weekly!

What does that mean for mom and dad - where do we fit in this whole growing up picture?

It means that we hurt with them. We cry when they cry and get angry when they are. I just never realized how badly my heart would hurt - on their behalf. It actually boggles my mind to know that we have the ability to have such compassion for another soul. Of course, it only makes sense.

Jesus did.

And we are created in His own image. So what do we do now?

Pray. Pray some more. Continue praying. Pray without ceasing.

Pray that they maintain a gentle spirit with a compassionate heart. Pray that the Lord guides them through the present turmoil and each event in their future. Pray that the Lord makes His voice known to them so that they can hear it over the massive worldly white noise. Pray that God will heal their hurting hearts and bring peace to their minds.

I really don't want to hurt like this anymore...but neither do my children. I have no intentions of allowing them to ever go through the hurtful times in their lives alone, so together we will stand strong. Together we will stay united. Together we will seek God's will and guidance while pointing the children back to the cross.Jesus understands our hurts. He knows exactly how we feel. Just as we will never emotionally abandon our children, God has promised to never leave us.

After all - Jesus wept too.

Blessings,
Rhonda

An Awesome Reminder

I am in the process of cleaning our hard drive and found this short report that my eldest wrote as a writing assignment a few years back. Considering the topic is timeless, I thought I would share his thoughts. Even coming from such a young heart (I think he was 14 or 15 at the time), I couldn't have said it better myself :)



The Fruits of the Spirit are very important to a Christians life. They help us act like we should and follow God and his word better. I believe these ideas can be used for anyone weather you believe in God or not.

God will see your heart and know if you are doing it 'just to do it' or if you are doing it with your whole heart. The one true God blesses anyone who goes after Him with the right motive. No one can fool God and no one can ever hope to hide anything from Him. He is a God who knows all things.

God will bless your life if you have the Fruits of the Spirit in your heart and you prove that they are in your heart by your actions. Jesus wants us to be more and more like Him and this is just one of the many steps it takes to get there. Pray that God will show you things in your life that does not line up with the Fruits of the Spirit and then change it.

Don't wait for a chance later in life - change it now.

The Fruits of the Spirit will bless you and those people around you.

Thanks for the reminder, Kyle...love you!

Coupon Codes

I came across these coupon code abbreviations and thought I would post them as a reminder.

When searching online for coupons it is almost imperative to know the coupon lingo/abbreviations. If you have any questions regarding these abbreviations or if I left one out that you know about, leave a comment below this post and let me know!

$1/1= $1.00 off 1 product

$1/2= $1.00 off 2 products

BOGO= Buy One Get One

ECB= Extra Care Bucks (at CVS)

EXP= Expires

GC= Gift Card

GM= General Mills Coupon Insert

MIR= Mail In Rebate

OOP= Out Of Pocket

P&G= Proctor and Gamble Coupon Insert

RP= Redplum Coupon Insert

RR= Register Reward (at Walgreens)

SS= Smart Source Coupon Insert

WAGS= Walgreens

WYB= When You Buy

YMMV= Your Mileage/Manager May Vary (this means that it might work at one store and not another)


Hopefully this helps!

Cha-Ching!

Here is proof in the pudding!

I sure didn't wait long once my coupon sabbatical was over. The very next day I was perusing the cart specials at Crest and came across these flatbread crackers for 50 cents each.

Think I can't beat that? Each one of the boxes had peelies (coupon stickers) for $1 off! So, I bought every box for the price of tax only!

Of course, my picture would have been more impressive if it had ALL the boxes here - I have already given away 6 of them!

Life is too fun - especially when it involves food :)

Crisscross Apple Crowns

Not only do we love every kind of apple dessert in our family, but if they receive an "A" for presentation, then the recipe is a keeper!

These are just basically mini apple pies, but much cuter!

3 Granny Smith apples, cored and cut
3 T of honey
2 T flour
2-4 t cinnamon (we like a lot of cinnamon!)
dash of salt
1 package large refrigerated biscuits
2 t melted butter

Mix the first 5 ingredients in a bowl and set aside. Roll each biscuit out to approximately a 5" circle. Scoop 1-2 tablespoons of apple mixture onto the flattened biscuit. Pull up sides and pinch edges to seal. Place seam side down in an ungreased muffin tin. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with more cinnamon (and a smidgen of sugar if you must). Cut an "X" on the top and then bake for 18-22 minutes at 350 degrees. Makes 8 "crowns".

Of course, we had to serve them with Vanilla Bean ice cream, which sort of made them only halfway healthy (is there such a thing?)

I will have to say that the next time I make these, I will make my own healthy whole-wheat pie dough. The biscuits were too doughy for me and too thick at the seam. My family happens to disagree with me, so I'll just make the change and see if they notice the next time!

Happy baking my friends!

Which One Are You?

This was passed onto us at the Home School Leadership Retreat. I felt it was worth re-typing and posting for all to read:


A daughter cried out in despair to her father about the difficulties of her life. She did not know how she could continue, and wanted to give up. It seemed that just as one problem was resolved, a new one surfaced to replace it.

Her father took her to the kitchen. He filled three pots with water and placed each one over high heat. After the water came to a boil, he placed fresh carrots in one, a few eggs in the second, and a tea bag in the third. He sat wordlessly for about 20 minutes. Then he removed the carrots, the eggs, and the tea to three bowls and turned to ask her, "Sweetheart, what do you see?"

"Carrots, eggs, and tea," she replied. He brought her closer and had her examine each item. She noticed that the carrots had become soft. When she broke an eggshell, she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, she sipped the tea and smiled as she inhaled its sweet aroma. "What does this mean?" she asked.

He explained that each of them had faced the same adversity - the boiling water - but each had reacted differently. The carrot went into the circumstances of the water strong, firm and unrelenting. But after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak.

The egg had been fragile; its thin outer shell had protected the liquid interior. But after sitting in the boiling water, the inside had become hardened.

However, the tea leaves were unique. After 20 minutes in the water, they had changed the water - they had flavored their surroundings and created a pleasant fragrance. In fact, it took the hot water to bring out the best in the tea leaves.

He asked her, "When the heat is turned up in the circumstances of your life, which are you? A carrot that appears tough, but with pain and adversity loses its vitality and strength? An egg, which starts off with a malleable heart, but becomes unyielding and hardened, even though the appearance stays the same? Or a tea bag, which brings a pleasant aroma and flavors the circumstances for the better when the heat is on?"


I want to be a tea bag.

California Fun!

Several people have been asking about our vacation out west, so I thought I'd post a few pictures about our fast and furious 6-day vacation to California. It was absolutely amazing...but we were wiped out!

It helped tremendously that my hubby is a native of the LA area. I could never drive out there - those people are completely crazy behind the wheel!

Here are some pictures and a quick outline of our Cali trip. We stayed in Buena Park which was very convenient to hit Knotts Berry Farm the very next day - only one mile awayThe Queen Mary in Long Beach was incredible - the size, the beauty and the history. Spent 6 hours touring the boat and having lunch at one of the 'fine' dining rooms!The Santa Monica Pier was beautiful and we certainly enjoyed the 70 degree weather!The day trip to Catalina Island was spectacularthe boat ride,the shops, the food, our bus tour and the sub ride were memory-making events for the entire family!We ended our vacation by spending a day in Hollywood and then visiting daddy's stomping grounds - which was quite delightful in itself!

Wouldn't EVER want to live there but it sure was fun visiting - something the kids will never forget. Thanks for letting me share our memories :)

A Tribute to My Friend

BFF!

I hear this daily...everyone says it about every friend they have! It's an over-used acronym that is now printed on t-shirts, hats, bookmarks and even key chains! However, if you truly have one of these "best friends forever" then you know how precious that person can be to you.

I happen to have one.

It's quite rare to meet this special person. The perennial in your life. Someone who will change you forever, always stand by your side, give you un-biased advice and equally share personal, never-to-be-repeated stories. Next to your marriage partner, they become your soul-mate...blood sisters, so to speak. You finish each others sentences. Talk at the same time saying the same time and then giggle like high school kids. You order the same pizza - with all the unusual ingredients that no one else will eat! You go through the same things with your kids even when you live hours apart and didn't even talk about the situations! You order the same books and never know it until you try to recommend it to each other. You both start a blog but didn't know the other one did and then one day blog about the same topic without conversing about it first!

No matter how long it has been since you have seen or talked with each other, you always pick up as though you just spoke for two hours the day before. You cry together - over silly things and serious things. You laugh till you can't even be understood on the other end of the phone.

The best part of all...her family comes to live with you for 5 weeks making it 10 people in your household and yet you get mad when they leave because they have a home to return to! It was nearly the best 5 weeks of your life - even with 20 shoes in the laundry room at any given time!!

In case you haven't gathered it by now, I am personally talking about a very special person in my life. I have even more respect and admiration for her now. She is on the journey of her life - one that will not only change her physical appearance, but her outlook on life, her activities with her family and overall improved health to enjoy her precious family.

My BFF? Denice Erway.

We met the first Sunday I attended church 13 years ago and were instantly bonded at the heart and hip. My friend is on a weight-loss journey with more determination than I have seen in anyone. She has decided to daily blog about her experiences - the successes and the disappointments. I implore you to follow her at www.deniceerway.com to share in her triumphs and possibly pass along a word of encouragement as she blogs about this long and sometimes slow process.

She has a heart of gold - loves the Lord and her family with extreme passion and is the best support group (all by herself) that I have ever found!

I hope you enjoy reading my bff's blog and can get a small taste as to why I am so blessed that the Lord sent her my way 13 years ago.

You are the bomb, Denice, and I love you dearly!

Banana-Sour Cream Cake

I found this in an old recipe book yesterday and immediately felt this inner yearning to gain some weight!! I just knew I had to make it for cell groups tonight. It is about as unhealthy as they come, but was so much fun to make! (not typical for a recipe like this to don my kitchen counter!)1 pkg yellow cake mix
3 eggs
1 cup mashed rip bananas (about 3)
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup oil
8 oz cream cheese
1 stick softened butter
16 oz (about 4 cups) powdered sugar
1 cup finely chopped walnut pieces

Beat cake mix, eggs, bananas, sour cream and oil with a mixer on low until moistened. Beat on medium for 2 minutes. Pour into a greased 9 x 13 pan and bake at 350 for 35 minutes. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter with mixer on medium till blended. Gradually add sugar till creamy.

Remove cake from pan and carefully cut cake crosswise in half. Place 1 cake half, top-side down, on plate. Spread top with frosting. Top with remaining cake and frost top and sides. Press nuts onto sides and a few on top for looks.

Hope you have other desserts as well, because this will not last long!

Southern Feather Rolls - Bread Machine

Doesn't the title just grab you??

These rolls will make you wanna slap your momma!! (Thank you, Tim Hawkins for making me laugh every time I hear you say this!)

I have adjusted the recipe to make it healthier - but I will warn you...your family will beg you -- no, FORCE you, to make these weekly!

1 egg
2 T water
1/4 cup milk
2 T butter
2 T honey
1 tsp salt
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup unbleached white flour
1-1/2 tsp yeast

Just dump into your bread machine pan and set for dough stage. When the dough is ready, gently knead it to press the air out. Slightly flour your hands and make 12-18 balls (depends on how big you want them).

You can put these in a muffin pan or just a 9 x 12 pan. Cover and place in a warm area to rise for 40-50 minutes. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.

I just made these last week and used all water since I had no milk - couldn't taste a difference at all.

Now - stand back and watch the fighting over the biggest roll begin! May the quickest person gloat and smile :)