Friday, December 21, 2012

A Little Christmas 2012

All photos courtesy of Rachel Ann, my personal photographer...thank you lovely daughter!
A Corgi Christmas
Jesus---Our reason for the Season
Christmas Tree 2012
Cute elf!
Grumpy Easter kitty...ooops, wrong season!
the scent of Pine filling the air...purty, too!
Music
Snowflakes
For the first time in 8 years, we have pretty lights on the house!

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

A New Perspective!

     "This job has been given to me to do.Therefore, it is a gift.
    Therefore, it is a privilege. Therefore, it is an offering
     I may make to God. Therefore, it is to be done gladly,
     if it is done for HIM.
     Here, not somewhere else, I may learn God's way. In this
      job, not in some other, God looks for faithfulness."
                                                 
                                                                  Elisabeth Elliot

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Sumthin' Healthy

     As the celebration of the birth of our Lord approaches, the New Year follows along quite nicely and quickly!!!Thinking about adding sumthin" a little healthy and different? This one will suit ya just fine :)   In going through some recipes the other day or rather frantically searching through my incredibly messy pile of recipes trying to find what I was looking for (ha ha), I stumbled across this one.
      Apparently my sister gave it to me after a very health conscious Asian pharmacist gave it to her. By the way Beth, did you ever try this? Thanks to M. Iwai for sharing!
     It is simply called....Chia. And the recipe is as follows:

                                                                        Chia
1 Tablespoon Chia seeds                                              
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon                                                
1/2 teaspoon bulgar wheat                                            
1 teaspoon quinoa                                                        
1 Tablespoon Flax seed powder                                                    
8 almonds                                                                    
8 walnuts
handful of raisins
1 teaspoon coconut
1/4 teaspoon Teff
bananas, blueberries, pineapple or grapefruit, oranges, apples

     Combine the first 5 ingredients in a bowl. Add 150 cc (5 ounces) of heated water. After a minute add the nuts, fruits and raisins and coconut. The mixture will thicken as it cools.

     When I made this I omitted the flaxseed(it seems to give me a strange rash on my arm? yeah, weird, huh?) and Teff because I 'm not even sure what Teff is....have to check that out? Or if you know, leave me a comment and fill me in please :)  Let me know if you try it!

Friday, December 7, 2012

Thinking....

     "It is no use to pray for the old days:
       Stand square where you are
                                                 and make the present better 
        than any past has ever been.
        Base all on your relationship to God and go forward,
        And presently you will find that what is emerging
                                                   is infinitely better than the past ever was."                                                              A quote from Oswald Chambers
                                                                                                                      

Monday, December 3, 2012

The birth of Jesus announced...

     The angel announced the birth of Jesus, our " Emmanuel" meaning God with us, to the shepherds who were out in the fields keeping watch over their flocks by night.These shepherds experienced the glory of the Lord shining round about them...."And , lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them:  and they were sore afraid." Luke 2:9
     They were afraid- the light of Christ illuminating the darkness. Did they feel the weight of their sin at that moment, is that what caused them to fear? The angel consoled and reassured them, "Fear not, for you have been chosen to receive tidings of GREAT JOY, for ALL people: Jew, Gentile,Roman, Greek, Slave and Free.
     A Saviour is born  in the city of David, Christ the Lord, a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger... Oh come, let us adore Him!

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Only A Few November Days Left....

     Only a few days left of November 2012...savor each one like the last bite of pie washed down with good, hot coffee. Watch and take note of the trees preparing for winter, see the shadows of the sun falling longer and darker, the intensity of the the sunrises and sunsets.
     Thanksgiving. Over. Like chairs pushed away from the table after a family meal, napkins crumbled in little heaps, forming small mountains around the table, crumbs gathered forming crunchy piles, plates once heaped with turkey, stuffing, cranberries, mashed potatoes and green beans now emptied and scraped of their delicious goodness.
     The next season approaches so quickly! Except for a slight hiccup we suddenly go from a thankful heart to the season of "gimme": give me this, give me that...toys for kids, phones, computers, televisions for adults. No matter where we go we are bombarded with stuff that we need and cannot possibly live without, even if we can't afford it!
     Instead of the "gimmes",  I would like to retain my thankful heart, my vigilant hope in Jesus, the One whom THIS season is all about :) 
     The awe of gazing into the manger and seeing the Christ-Child, God-became-man, the Savior of the World. I want to relish the quiet hush of the stable, see Mary exhausted and yet content with the Babe in her arms, Joseph so bewildered over all that he's encountered in asking for Mary's hand in marriage yet satisfied in knowing he's done the right thing, the gentle breathing and rustling of the animals in the small place where they are sheltered for the night,  a night not really different from any other but for the two visitors from the city of Galilee, namely Nazareth.
     Join me in taking a moment each morning in December to come to the place where our Savior was born, kneeling before the manger filled with the Babe, God's one and only Son! O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord, this Christmas season!

Monday, November 12, 2012

Buy a wreath and help a Gospel for Asia Missionary!

     As a family, we have been supporting the Gospel For Asia ministry. If you don't know what they are about you should check it out @  GFA.org.  GFA  believes to help unsaved people know about Jesus requires missionaries who are from the region that they are ministering to...the culture, the customs, etc....it just makes more sense to send someone who knows the people and the language, one who has grown up in Asia and knows what it is like! So GFA has a bible school for those whom the Lord calls to minister. They are trained and sent out to spread the Gospel! Many times, the villages in which they are called to go are quite far and require much walking!
     My daughter Rachel is selling wreaths from Wreaths of Maine. They are beautiful, long-lasting  pine wreaths made of Balsam (the most fragrant). She is donating one-half of her proceeds to Gospel for Asia missionaries who are in need of bicycles to help them spread the Good News! Please join her in saving souls for Jesus Christ by buying a wreath or two :) from her. You can view all of the wreaths @ the website: Wreathsofmaine.com. Her seller ID # is 4923, which you will need if you are ordering. Wreaths may be purchased online directly, or you may call Wreaths of Maine @ 207-832-5385 or you may contact Rachel via her blog www.rachelsews.blogspot.com or myself if you'd like to pay by check or use your cc without going online :)  Thank you so very much and may God bless you!

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Prayer for persecuted Christians.....

     As followers of Christ, it is our duty and honor to pray for Christians around the world who are being persecuted:  afflicted and harassed for their faith in Jesus Christ!  Present Truth Ministries gives updates and info on what is going on around the world. We, as Christians, need to be aware of what our Christian brothers and sisters are enduring and remember to lift them up in prayer.
     We are so blessed in this country where we can speak freely about God and His Word, read our Bibles  and gather together to worship God! Not all are so blessed as we....We need to remember to pray for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ that they may be strong in the Lord and in the trials they are experiencing for their public profession of faith.
     Here are some specific people to pray for who are presently imprisoned in Shiraz:

     1. Vahid Roghanghir
     2. Shourosh Saraiee
     3. Eskander Rezae'e
     4. Mehdi Amrooni
     5. Shahin Lahooti
     6. Masoud Rezae'e

Jesus told us in Matthew 5:10-12, "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you."

Please join me in praying! And also check out the Present Truth Ministries website. Thank you!

Friday, November 9, 2012

Some thoughts on Psalm 68

"Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation." Psalm 68:19
 
  Noah Webster's 1828 American Dictionary Of The English Language defines the word benefit as:
   BEN'EFIT, noun. 1. an act of kindness; a favor conferred. So Psalm 68 verse 19 is telling us that the Lord, who is to be blessed,  loadeths us or bestows us in great abundance with acts of kindness and confers us favors. I get a picture of a huge dump truck heavily loaded with  God's blessings/favors driving up to the door of my house. If I've got my attitude right with God I am able to answer the door and accept this "load of blessing"! But if I'm having a pity-party for myself, doubting God's goodness in this messy world in which we live, looking only at the negatives or the things I don't have but think I should, then guess what? I am not up for the delivery that the Lord has for me.I can't see the forest for the trees, I'm gonna miss out, big time, on what God has for me.
    "Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits: a beautiful sunrise, a much needed rain shower, a job for my son, more work for my husband, a new-found understanding of Algebra for my Rachel, a willing niece who gives freely of her time to help in this new-found understanding, beautiful handwriting from my Hannah, a 4 day week-end, a great cup of coffee!
     May we remember to praise You, O God. Not just because You bless us but because of WHO You are-- a wonderful, loving Father who sent His Son Jesus to offer up His body on the Cross of Calvary so that each one of us might have EVERLASTING LIFE and the gift of His Holy Spirit to those who receive Him! May our telling others about You be our main goal, to let others know that THIS world is NOT our home. When we say yes to Jesus we will dwell with our Father God, FOREVER, in heaven!
     Open up your Bible today, pray and ask God to speak to you through His Word...amazing things will begin to happen in your life. If you don't believe me,  then just try it for yourself!

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Psalm 67 and Election Day 2012

I read Psalm 67 today and wanted to share:

    "God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause His face to shine upon us; Selah.
     That Thy way may be known upon earth, Thy saving health among the nations.
     Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise Thee.
     O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for Thou shalt judge the people righteously,
     and govern the nations upon the earth. Selah.
     Let the people praise Thee, O God; let all the people praise Thee.
     THEN, shall the earth yield her increase, and God, even our own God, shall bless us.
     God shall bless us; and  ALL the ends of the earth shall fear Him."

May God indeed be merciful to this nation today! Get out and exercise your right to vote!

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Nineteen...

Artwork by Rachel Ann of Sterling and Peaches the hamster
     We had a birthday around here last Friday. A young man turned 19 years old. It seems to me that he should still be about 4 or 5. I am so blessed by him...my son Matthew William! He has a tender heart for the Lord, acknowledged Jesus as his Lord and Savior when he was 4 years old and loves the Word of God.He has a heart to serve, both God and others. He is the one all of the neighbors call on when they need a hand! Lawn mowed---check, putting in new windows---check, sprinkler systems---check, general clean up--check! He takes pride in a job well done and he always goes the extra mile. He is a loyal big brother to his two younger sisters, a wonderful son, a great nephew and a terrific grandson. He has plans for the future and is working hard to get there...one step at a time!He can play the piano, taught himself guitar and banjo and loves bluegrass music! I pray daily for a precious wife for him who will want to love and serve the Lord  beside him. I am so very thankful the Lord has blessed our family with Matthew! He brings laughter, joy and a smile wherever he goes...Happy Belated B-Day Son!
     It is hot here.... again. For some reason silly me keeps forgetting that we live in a desert basically. It seems that every year I forget that one small detail. So if y'all have any extra Fall, could ya share some with us out here in California? I know that all of us would appreciate it very much. Even though it is hot, we are trying to deal with it and still think Fall thoughts...pumpkin scones, homemade pumpkin lattes, hot tea before bed and dreaming of sweaters....All very hard to do when the thermometer reads 105*...yikes!

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Happy Fall Y'all!

Homegrown apple
     Although the calendar says that Autumn arrived on Saturday the 22 of September this year, Autumn does not officially start for me until I can go all day without turning on the a/c! And sometimes, Southern California is the last to get the memo that Fall has arrived bringing cooler temps and possibly the need for a sweater....Fall arrived yesterday here! There was definitely a nip in the morning air, the sun did not shine so aggressively as it showed its pretty little face at sunrise and I actually thought that I might put on a light jacket. It was lovely, let me tell ya! I left the windows OPEN all day and did not even touch the thermostat. Hannah stepped outside and declared, "The breeze feels cool!" We sat outside in the shade and did not sweat and I seriously praised God for a day that did not get hotter that 90*.
     Now I am ready to cook substantial dinners of beef stew or chili and bake anything pumpkin....Yeah for fall!

Sunday, September 16, 2012

"What Is Home Without Love?" by Doc Watson & David Grisman

This is one of Jeff's and my favorites by Doc Watson. Such a talented man..can't wait to meet him in heaven! Hope you enjoy it, too!

23 years

Twenty three years ago today, I was united in marriage to my husband, Jeff. I was pretty young, had just turned 22 and my beloved was 25, almost 26. It was a beautiful and wonderful day, high up in the San Bernardino mountains, in the small town of Lake Arrowhead. I remember thinking what a serious thing this was that I was entering into, but I know that God had brought this man to me. My Mother-in-law was very instrumental in this heart tying! I had met her while I worked at Mervyn's and pretty much every time we would end up together on a break, she would tell me about her son and how I needed to meet him. "Yeah, yeah," I would say secretly thinking to myself that I did not wish to meet him at all due to my recent decision to not be involved with any more guys period and especially those who were immature and not very serious about life! So I would politely listen to her as she told me about him, nod my head approvingly but inside my head I was thinking , "uhhm, no thanks!" She would bring out his senior photo and show me a glimpse of this nice looking young man with blond hair and green eyes and a sweet smile and then she'd say, "I should get a more recent picture of him, he's a little older now!" And then the conversation would meander off onto another topic and I'd breathe a sigh of relief!  And then, one day,unbeknownst to me, while I straightened and  folded little boys'  Levi pants in the boys department, I was under observation. Those green eyes from that senior photo were now scrutinizing me from across the store! You see, my future brother-in-law also worked at Mervyn's and had been in on this conspiracy also. He'd been telling his brother that he did indeed need to come in and meet me! Yes, I was framed !So as I worked away, this young man, was working up the nerve to come over and strike up a conversation with me. And pretty soon he did and as he  approached, I felt some eyes on me. I noticed that to the side of me, there stood a man in the midst of the little boys department and my first thought was I needed to direct him over to the proper department because these pants might have been a bit too small for him! But then he said, Oh, I'm Susan's son!" My mind was really trying to comprehend who this guy was and finally, I understood that THIS was the guy in the Senior photo that I had been shown on my break for the past few months. After a few moments of uncomfortable chit-chat(yes, even me, the girl who never stops talking was speechless) he somehow got my phone number, told me he'd call me and was quickly gone! Do you know that this man still has the scrap of paper that I wrote my name and number on? So we had our first phone conversation, first date(which I did not want to end and neither did he) and then somehow 4 months later we were looking at rings and then engaged and then planning a ceremony and whew.......September 16, 1989 a wedding took place. But on this day, 23 years ago, so much more occurred that just a marriage ceremony. There was a joining of hands, but also a joining of hearts. When we said I do( and that's a whole 'nother story, folks) amidst tears,one soggy, shared tissue, happiness and joy, we both meant it...forever and ever, Amen! For better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, till death do us part. I look at this man that God hand picked and brought to me and I am so thankful... words cannot describe the joy my heart feels towards him. He is trustworthy, hard-working and kind and he loves the Lord with all his heart. Our children are evidence of this love that we have for each other. And while, I will say that we've had our share of squabbles and disagreements, we have always been able to kiss each other good night, say I love you and mean it! He has stood by me, upheld me and shouldered my tears through miscarriages, childbirth, and the losses of my brother, my sister and my dear parents. I am so blessed by this man and I want him to know that!

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Sisters......

4th of July 2012
Jo, me, and B
Remember Barney, the humongous dinosaur in purple with a green belly? Well, his dino buddy BJ would sing a song about his little sister Baby Bop. Whenever I think of my sisters, I start to hum that sweet diddy:
    "Cause I know she's always there,
      and I know she'll always care,
      She's my sister, I love my sister!"                                                                                                                      God has blessed me with a wonderful family. My parents got married and soon after the blessings began to arrive:
  • Big Bro
  • Big Sis #1
  • Jo Big Sis #2
  • B Big Sis #3
and last but not least,  me.... Yes, the baby of the family, born when my brother was 10 and sisters were 9, 7, and 5. My Mom told me she cried when she found out she was pregnant with me....I don't hold it against her at all....I figured she was just plain tired! My brother supposedly dropped the watermelon he was carrying up the stairs when he heard that he had acquired ANOTHER sister...guess he was hoping for a boy.He always told me that the watermelon slipped out of his hands and it had nothing to do with me being a girl! Nice bro :) With Big sis#1 and Jo being 9 and 7, there was a bit of trouble regarding who was going to hold me. Big Sis #1, being older, probably got chosen since she was of course, older! And so in retaliation, Jo would come in to my parents' bedroom , when I was sleeping and jiggle the crib until I woke up so she could get her turn. This is my reasoning behind why I still love taking naps. I was sleep deprived as an infant!!!! Jo has also confessed to being a bit upset when I came along because without me they were a family of 6, a nice even number. And you know all of those yummy danishes that my Mom would buy for a Sunday treat were now out because she would have had to buy 2 packages instead of just one. So basically I'm to blame for ending that tradition. Now B tells me her little world suffered a very severe jolt when I came along, too! My entrance into the world now meant that she no longer would hold the coveted baby spot in the family! Don't worry, I've forgiven them all and then some!
My Dad worked very hard outside of our home and my Mom worked very hard inside our home. We were by no means rich as the world would say but in my opinion we had it all. We knew we were loved and cared for, we had clothes, food and plenty of fun. We went camping in our trailer and brought our dogs along. Dad had a little sailboat and after work during the week he'd take us girls out to Lake Perris for sailing and swimming. We skated, rode bikes and my Dad loved to go to the school behind our house and fly kites with us! So many happy memories.....to be continued.


     

Friday, August 10, 2012

hot, hot, hot!

Wonderful and hot onion!
      We are deep in the throes of summer here! With temps reaching well over 100* each day, we all breathe a sigh of relief when the sun goes down to take a much needed rest :) It is hot...phew!
       My husband, whom I call " the farmer" but who insists he is "just a gardener", has grown some spectacular onions this year. They make me so happy when I cut them, I cry...a lot! They are very strong but good.
       And so we plod along here.....with the high temps comes the return of pencils, papers and school books! The school year of 2012-2013 will soon begin with two students amidst the drone of the air conditioner, the clink of ice in the glasses of refreshing lemonade and ice tea and the drip of the popsicles.
       Here are our general courses of Study for this year:

        Rachel will be in Grade 9:

                    Rod and Staff Bible 9
                    Teaching Textbooks Algebra II
                    Easy Grammar Ultimate 9
                    Learning Language Arts Through Literature---American Literature
                    California State History
                    Astronomy/Zoology/ Biology 101
                    Health
                    Typing

           Hannah will be in Grade 5:

                     Rod and Staff Bible 5
                     Teaching Textbooks 5
                      Sequential Spelling Book 4
                      Learning Language Arts Through Literature---Purple Book
                      California State History
                      Daily Geography Lessons
                      Astronomy/Zoology/ Biology 101

      Looks like that will be enough to keep us all busy in the learning department!  We will continue in our studies of cooking, sewing, animal husbandry, physical education, fiddle and piano playing and whatever else God brings us to do this year!
       Leaving you with a quote from the King James Bible for today------
"I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. My meditation of Him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the Lord."  Psalm 104: 33-34
     What's going on in your neck of the woods?
                   

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Look at our "happy" home-grown produce!

     Take a look at these smiling little peppers from our garden! Honestly, I cut these open and this is what I saw........totally untouched, folks! Cute little guys, almost hated to eat them, but boy, oh boy, they were tasty! God does  have a sense of humor and this made me smile!
     I am proud to announce my lovely daughter's blog. Please go visit her:  www.rachelsews.blogspot.com
and don't forget to leave a comment...thanks!
     Happy Belated Anniversary to Grandma Soupie and Grandpa!

Thursday, July 19, 2012

God's Delights

     "Thus saith the Lord,  Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth Me, that I am the Lord which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord."    Jeremiah 9: 23-24 (KJV)

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

The Birthday Girl and Cousins

Left to right
Rachel, Megan and Lauren
and Hannah (bottom)
     Had to say that my oldest girl is now 14.....boo hoo for me but she is growing up and that is what these kiddos seem to do best. Rachel Ann is a blessing to me. She surprised me from the get-go! I had it all planned out that we would have all boys, no pink for me, I had grown up with 3 older sisters and always wanted a younger brother....ha ha. God knew better, didn't He?
     She has kept me on my toes and given me a run for my money with her loving to take off at break-neck speed if I'd let her out of the stroller for a moment, has always had the ability to make some really funny faces to make me laugh and has just been an all-around-sweetheart!
     Rachel can make a mean biscuit from scratch in a jiffy, doctors up a bowl of popcorn beyond belief and does the dishes like a pro. She can draw things so they look like what she intended (she didn't get THAT from me!), wants to sew her own vintage wardrobe and wear penny loafers! She even shares her b-day chocolates with everyone...she is a gem and a keeper for sure! And on top of all that she has a heart for Jesus.... Yes, indeed, I am blessed to be her mother and friend!
                                  Happy 14th Birthday Rachel Ann( a day late).....Love you!

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

If you happen to be at my house and see me stuffing something in my mouth.....it is most likely one of these No-Bake Energy Bites (original recipe from Smashedpeasandcarrots.blogspot.com) So quick, so easy, no oven needed and best of all, fairly good for you in the healthy category! I consider chocolate to be the fifth food group...ha ha!


                  No-Bake Energy Bites 


       Mix all of the following ingredients together in a bowl thoroughly. Using a cookie scoop, form into balls.Ready to eat now or after refridgerating until chilled

  • 1 cup oatmeal (I use Bob's Red Mill brand)
  • 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
  • 1/2 cup flaxseed meal
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter or other nut butter
  • 1/3 cup honey (raw if you have it)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract        

Thursday, July 12, 2012

Aaaaah....garden fresh tomatoes!

                      Howdy faithful blog reader(s)! I know there is at least one of you out there....
The 4th of July came and went. We did indeed have us a party with my sisters and their peeps, it was a very nice day, cool weather, good food, good company and wonderful fireworks from my very own front yard! Now, you may be asking yourself, are not fireworks illegal in my city? Yes, m'am, that is correct! Then how did I just so happen to plop down in my loveseat with my hubby and oooooh and ahhhhh without driving in the car and fighting the crowds? For some reason, unbeknownst to me, there are some who are allowed to put on HUGE displays within the city limits, without ANY fines, fees or punishments whatsoever. I do not question the perspective of the proper authorities in their ignorance but just sit back and enjoy the celebration. It really was incredible!!!!I'm not talking about sparklers, or little popping noises .Some of these fireworks were very impressive. At some point in time my photographer, who seems to be on a brief hiatus at the moment,  will download some of these impressive, monstrous displays of  illegal color and I will share them with y'all. But for now, I will talk about our tomatoes.......since I do have a  photo of pretty, red tomatoes!
           So, we've got tomatoes goin' on here! Some sort of cherry-type that maybe cross-pollinated with a larger type and voila, I am happy! Mainly because I  do not buy tomatoes unless they are home-grown delicious! And these are good and we will have lots of them.....And combined with my neighbor's wonderful HOT Peppers, which I made into an incredibly mouth-burning experience(see my post on hot sauce), and a beautiful onion provided by Farmer Jeff, I made some pretty good tasting salsa today.... tomatoes + onions + hot sauce = Yummy! Really good on Rice and Lentil Casserole( a staple in our diet around here). So what is your favorite type of tomato? How do you use all of your tomatoes? Please share!!!!

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Super Easy Hot Sauce

If y'all like yourselves some HOT sauce and you are tired of buying it and constantly running out and having your son ask you again..."we're all out of hot sauce?"Then, my friends, you've some to the right place. This is the easiest recipe I've ever made and it came out perfectly just like Andrea @ www.frugallysustainable.com  said it would! Thanks Andrea! I did not even use cayenne peppers, just some super-di-duper hot peppers that my neighbor Teresa T. grows in her backyard garden. Thanks neighbor Teresa! So, all of that being said, here is the recipe for Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce! Try it and let me know what you think.....

                                              Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce

  • Pint-sized glass jar(canning jar) with lid
  • Fill jar with peppers
  • Add 2 1/2 teaspoons of salt
  • 4-5 garlic cloves (I peeled them)
  • Add enough water to cover peppers
  • Place lid on tightly and shake well
  • Place in pantry to ferment for 2 weeks
  • Place contents of jar in blender and blend away
  • Ta Da....hotsauce!
  • Store in refrigerator for up to one year(or maybe one week at my house!)

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Graduation 2012 Picture Preview

The Graduate
  Well, we finally got around to the long awaited photo shoot. After a few busy weeks, Matthew was home and Rachel's camera was ready!!!!! So here are some shots she took...not too bad for an amateur :)

Monday, June 18, 2012

Father's Day 2012...a day late

     Happy Father's Day to my wonderful husband, my Father-in-law in Oregon and Fathers everywhere! Thank you Father-in-law LWR for showing your son how to be a good Dad! Remembering my dear Dad and Papa to my kiddos who now rests in Jesus....what terrific memories I have from a delightful childhood! How my Dad loved his children and delighted  in playing with us. From kite-flying to bike riding to roller skating to beach trips to camping and on and on and on...he always made sure we had something to do. Thanks Dad so much....I would not be the woman I am today if it weren't for you and I can't wait to see you again in heaven!!!!   But most of all, I am so very thankful for my Heavenly Father who loved those who are His so much that He made a way for us to return to Him someday!
      "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned....John 3:16-18
        Do you know my Heavenly Father, Jesus His Son and the Holy Spirit? He can be YOUR saving God, too. Take some time to get to know Him by reading the book of John....I guarantee it will be time well spent :)

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

A Word for Wednesday....

"Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
 How unsearchable His judgments,
  and His paths beyond tracing out!
  Who has known the mind of the Lord?
   Or who has seen His counselor?
    Who has ever given to God, 
     that God should repay Him?
   For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.
 To Him be glory forever!    Amen."       Romans 11:33-36
Beautiful thoughts from His Word! Cannot live this life on my own...I must come to Him for strength for He is the giver of life and hope and joy!Trusting Him today....are you? In what ways is God showing Himself  faithful in your life?

  

Friday, June 1, 2012

Summer is here...well, almost!

 If you are reading along in the Bible: Exodus1:1-Exodus15:18                                                                                              
Does anyone else remember this book from childhood?
This book was always a favorite of mine. I wished that I could step into the pictures and enjoy all the fun these two were having with their dog!
 Since I am seriously looking to keep to a budget I am now using solar power to dry our clothes...as in hanging the clothes outside on the clothesline. I really think it is fun! When I first got my clothesline I told a friend that I was so enjoying hanging the clothes outside and she looked at me as if I had just about lost my mind! Then she said to let her know when the honeymoon was over...well, one year later, I am still enjoying my moments spent out in the fresh air, hearing the birds sing and watching the clouds go by. In other words, the honeymoon is still on! Especially when the gas bill is at least $5 to $7 cheaper each month when I am consistent. Plus Vitamin D is really, really good for you...prevents and heals cancer and a whole lotta other maladies! Anyone else enjoy using their clothesline?
Now this little apron thingie is very special to me. Isn't it adorable? Embroidered by hand and piped in red..... I've named the little lady that you see here "Fran".She looks like she is having a great time hanging out her laundry, doesn't she? Even has the bluebirds to assist her! This little gem belonged to my Mom but it doesn't look like she ever used it although I do remember her hanging out many, many ,many loads of wash. I am now using it to hold my clothespins as I string the clothes along the line and it is a timesaver. Get out and enjoy some sun today :)

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

pretty clouds.....
Today's reading is Genesis 17:1-Genesis 28:19. Hope you are enjoying diving into God's Word so far...feels good and so refreshing!
This cloud photo reminds me of an arrow pointing  me in the direction of the Lord's leading or of a pine tree on
its side or?
What does this picture remind you of?
For Wednesday read Genesis 28:20- Genesis 40:11..only one more day in Genesis!

Monday, May 28, 2012

Refreshed by God's Word

Red Sunflower Beauty! Photo by Rachel Ann
     99 Days...66 Books= One Amazing Summer! Please join me in reading God's Word this summer! Go to www.terilynneu.com  for reading schedules! Today's scheduled reading is Genesis1:1-Genesis 16:16.

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Why We Shouldn't Worry

"Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life."  Matthew 6 :25                           A quote from Oswald Chambers:  "It is not only wrong to worry-----it is infidelity, because worrying means that we do not think that God can look after the practical details of our lives, and it is never anything else that worries us. Have you ever noticed what Jesus said would choke The Word he puts in?    The devil?  No, the cares of this world. It's the  little worries  always. I will not trust where I cannot see, that is where infidelity(towards God) begins. The only cure for infidelity is obedience to the Spirit." 

Monday, May 21, 2012

Guess who turns 4 today........

As you can see she isn't too thrilled to have her picture taken!
Happy Birthday to the best Corgi in the world!                                                                                     Posted by: Rachel

Saturday, May 19, 2012

The Graduate

Graduation photos coming soon! In the meantime, here is the graduate beefing up his detective skills.

Matthew begins his career.....
 

Friday, May 18, 2012

Getting Out of God's Way...

Oswald Chambers said,"So often we mar God's designed influence through us by our self-conscious efforts to be consistent and useful. Jesus says there is only one way to develop spiritually, and that is by concentration on God. "Do not bother being of use to others, believe on ME"---pay attention to the Source, and out of you will flow Living Waters. Our heavenly Father knows the circumstances we are in, and if we keep concentrated on HIM we will grow spiritually as the lilies. The people who influence us the most are not those who buttonhole us and talk to us, but those who live their lives like the stars in the heaven and the lilies of the field, PERFECTLY SIMPLY and UNAFFECTEDLY. These are the lives that MOLD us. If you want to be of use to God, get rightly related to Jesus Christ and He will make you of use unconsciously every minute you live."          May I give up my vain attempts to control my life, my trying so hard to be consistent and useful that I am useless! To let God be my focus....my life, His Way. I want to live my spiritual  life to be like this lily as Jesus said in Matthew 6:28 "Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these."


"Consider the lilies..." Matthew 6:28              Photo courtesy of Rachel Ann
 

Monday, May 14, 2012

3 teeth in 2 Days..

Hannah has lost an amazing 3 teeth in 2 days....her permanent teeth are very happy to spread out with the extra room! She is happy because now she can eat without worrying about swallowing teeth. She bravely pulled a loose one out during dinner and then since we are all trying to floss more, I casually suggested that I might help her floss. Well, the floss got stuck on another tooth that was wiggley! She pulled that one out easily after the floss loosened it. We resumed our flossing. THEN, the floss got stuck on another tooth and yanked it right out. It flew out of her mouth and landed on the floor...yikes! After the shock wore off, she was ok. She really thought she had lost too much blood, bless her heart! I reassured her that there was plenty left in her body...:) makes me glad I've already lost all my baby teeth!
2 of the 3(one got thrown away)


Sunday, May 13, 2012

Happy Mother's Day!

My three blessings here with me and my 2 blessings waiting for me in heaven....motherhood is a glorious gift from God! A gift for which I am very thankful.I remember my sweet Mom today who has gone on before me..miss her so much but I know that I will see her again when Jesus sounds that trumpet blast! Thanking God also for my lovely Mother-in-law, Susan, for if it weren't for meeting her I would not have met her wonderful son who became my husband :) Have a very blessed Mother's Day!

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Our Spring 2012 Garden

     Here are some pictures of our garden, hope you enjoy them!
Eight of the raised beds
Purple cabbage
Kaleidoscope carrots
broccoli
corn


one of our beets
snap peas
Post and Pictures By: Rachel

Monday, May 7, 2012

The first Monday in May

" I don't have much in the way of money or worldly possessions. I'm not beautiful, intelligent , or clever, but I'm happy! I was born happy, I love people, I have a trusting nature, and I'd like everyone else to be happy too!"---Anne Frank---

   I wrote down this quote when I began a Frugal Living Challenge from www.frugallysustainable.com . It was from day 6 of the challenge. The daily goal was "How has your health and happiness effected your ability to live frugally?" The strategy to attain this goal: Seek those things that help me meet my basic human needs of mind, body, and soul! But this quote from www.frugallysustainable.com really summed it up for me:  " In order to embrace frugal living- we MUST find contentment in the way things are!" Hhmmmm....find contentment in the way things are.....not the way I would like them to be , or think they should be and aren't...there is a BIG difference! I remember another quote: Our wants are MANY but our needs are FEW. God is my provider, my Jehovah-Jireh. I think a healthy mind, soul, and body can only be found when the heart is full of gratitude, a deep-seated thankfulness that wells up from within and then pours out into all of one's life. When it is well with the soul.....ALL IS WELL! 

Sunday, May 6, 2012

Hi! I'm Rufus...

Allow me to introduce myself.... my name is Rufus. I showed up  the Spring of 2011 and after a brief but almost deadly encounter with Ingrid the outdoor dog, I was rescued by the kind lady who lives here.Interesting but true, my brother was delivered to another neighbor just up the street on the exact same night! I took a strong liking to the little girl who lives here and guess the feeling is mutual. She takes such good care of me....plenty of food, water and scratches behind the ears. Ha, she's even got me trained to walk around the yard on a leash, no less. All in the name of love I say! I am quite a different cat than that snob Sterling. I just don't operate on his methods...he's stand-off-ish and I am quite the opposite, very approachable and friendly. He's hefty and I'm a bit on the lean side....but don't let that fool you....I am a bundle of purring love!