Bits&Pieces

Sunday Lessons

2011-11-13T08:27:00.002-06:00

Sunday mornings I teach the "littles" at our church. Sunita comes sometimes, but it's for our 3-6 year olds. (Okay, of which there are two)

I thought I'd like to share my lessons, to keep them on file, and if you find inspiration you can adapt them too.

For the first month we studied Abraham for 4 weeks. The first lesson was Abraham's call to move.

We learned A was for Abraham and for Apple.
We learned a verse with pictures "I will follow you whever you go."

We made tents and put stickers of Abraham and Sarah inside.

We colored pictures too, and in all, went over the story 4 times. We also "packed" a suitcase of things to "move" with and pulled it around the classroom.

Every week we start by measuring our height on a growth chart and singing "Read your Bible pray every day and you'll grow, grow, grow..."

Then we try and close with another song that is our memory verse, Psalm 34:12-14.

A Fun Project

2011-11-12T16:27:00.000-06:00

I've been wanting to try this for a long time.....and by a long time I mean probably over a year. But now, it's done, and I'm very excited! It's a "house" for kids to play in.

It fits over our card table. Has two windows and a door, and a mail box that really can hold mail.

But the best part......it that it folds up like this for storage. Yay for fun things in our apartment!

Sweet Treats

2011-11-08T16:53:00.000-06:00

So, I saw this pretty idea online and decided to try it out for myself....with a little help from my super-pie-crust-baking-mom.....

It is a lot of work for a treat....but it's kind of fun....maybe a once-a-fall type of thing in my book :)

Thanks

2011-11-07T16:53:00.002-06:00

It's a mystery.....
Someone went window shopping on Saturday....
and entered my name in a drawing.....
and I won!
And I have no idea how or who.....
but I'm grateful and excited to do my own window shopping. :)

What's New

2011-11-03T13:21:00.000-05:00

Hi.

It's been a while since I've been here....as in here on this blog.

I haven't forgotten it.

I haven't even wanted to neglect it.

But life happens.

What's new here?

I enjoyed every bit of fall I could....but I'm ready for snow.
I raked our backyard leaves.
I made lefse.
I made a fun October "do-list" and did most of it....
I've been sewing
And crafting
And reading
And playing computer games

And I've been mothering
And housekeeping
And cooking
And trying new things

All of which, someday, I hope to get back on here and blog. But I'd rather do it with pictures, and that will have to wait till I get them uploaded. Meanwhile, enjoy this picture of a Fall "Do-List", which is where I took my idea from. (If you click on the pictures it will go to the link):

A Book Review: A Good and Perfect Gift

2011-11-03T13:14:00.000-05:00

I read through A Good and Perfect Gift, by Amy Becker, in about 2 days. It was captivating. It's the story of a family who didn't find out about the special needs of their child until AFTER the birth. The author writes about her excitement for their first child, the emotional roller-coaster they went on after the news, and the love that grew in their hearts toward their little girl.
I enjoyed the premise of the book. While I am glad I read it, and the reminder of how precious life is, I'm also glad I didn't read it while pregnant. I don't think emotionally I could've handled it very well.
The book maintained my interest for the first few chapters, then I wished the author would move through the story faster in the middle. She spent a lot of time in the 6-8 month age range, which from reading, you could tell alot happened, but at the same time, it felt a little repetitive. I enjoyed the "ending" of the book, but had to go check out her blog because I really wanted to see pictures. (Which I did)

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their blogger book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Book Review: The Baker's Wife

2011-11-02T18:18:00.000-05:00

The Baker's Wife, by Erin Healy, was the first suspense book/mystery book I read in a long, long time. As a fiction title, it definitely caught my interest, and held it till the end of the book.
This was also my first time to read an e-book. Let me tell you, that's not my favorite way to enjoy a book, but it was conveinent.
While a little on the unbelievable side, the story plot is captivating. I particualrly liked the setting of the bakery and the detail that went into that. The characters were maybe just a bit predictable, but for an afternoon read, it was fine.
I did not find the conclusion much to my liking, it seemed like maybe it was a bit hard to wrap up.
Over all, I might try this author again, but it's not on my must-read list.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Book Review: It Couldn't Just Happen

2011-08-28T17:27:00.000-05:00

I'm very glad I had the chance to review It Couldn't Just Happen, by Lawrence Richards. It's a topic I am highly interested in, and therefore was a book right up my alley so to speak.

Overall, this is a book I plan on keeping on my shelf, and I do recommend adding it to yours as well.

I was happy to see the format of the book was geared toward kids/youth, with lots of pictures and easy-to-read font. Mr. Richards does a great job of explaining scientific things in an understandable way without sounding silly or childish. It reminds me a lot of the science text books I used in school.

I especially liked the beginning chapters of the book. The author addresses many of the common hypothesis mentioned in today's science books (well, on that I must mention that I'd like to research that myself by actually looking into an elementary science book). I really appreciated the way he didn't take issue of calling scientists with different beliefs "ignorant" or use any of the all-to-common "slams" against the "other-side." I was able to read along with him objectively on each issue without feeling he was leading me toward a bias.

At the end of each chapter he adds extra projects, research questions, activities you can do with your kids that go along with each topic. It must be personality, because some I thought very appropiate, and some very un-interesting.

Near the end of the book, he does get into theology more than I expected, as in, he devotes a whole chapter to the fufillment of prophecy by Christ. It's about 4 chapters in the end it's only about the Bible and Christ, and not so much on science stuff. It's interesting, but I would've been fine without it in the book because I find it a whole different topic of study.

So all in all, I give the first half of the book a 5 star rating, but the second half of the book a 3.5 rating.

If you'd like to read a copy of this book, you can buy it on Amazon.com or CBD.com (or get it from your local library possibly)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

I'm reminded...

2011-08-19T09:53:00.000-05:00

As I prepared to meet new students last night, I was reminded that I'm not always in control....that things don't always go smoothly....that I can't always have the perfect things to say.

I was reminded that seasons come and go, as do people, as do opportunities. I need to remember grace, and trust, and practice peace and patience.

I can't always be wishing for things to have gone differently, or waiting for just the right moment, because God works in the everyday. And everyday He's reminding me to lean on Him.

Perhaps my words are just a maze, and don't make heads or tails, but all I can say is I'm so thankful this morning for the way things went yesterday, and the day before, and the last week...

As I learn discernment.....that not all that goes in my head needs to be said aloud. I'm thankful for little ears that listen, which remind me that God is still working on me and my thoughts are not always His thoughts to say out loud.

As I learn patience....that even when schedules up-heave, and rice turns sticky, and laundry buzzes and mail calls and friends drop by, that every event is a gift and a moment to savor.

As I learn trust....that even in all that upheaval, when I wish and wonder if I did the right thing or spent enough time or made someone realize I was really glad they were there, that I might never know the answer but I'll have to trust I did my best and let go and live on and look forward.

As I learn discipline....that things go smoother with a little planning, that I can make myself do the un-fun so there's time for the fun without dissapointing others or myself, and that there's always room for a shorter to-do-list.

As I learn wonder....that just when I'm thinking of someone, and how or when I will find time to meet them, they call, or email, or stop by. And then I know there is Someone else helping me, and knowing who He wants me to meet that day, and I just have to be available.

And so, as summer sunshine laspses into the crispness of fall, I'm thankful. And relaxed. And hoping to spend as much time listening as possible.

May you also have a restful weekend!

~ Emily

Crafty Shirts

2011-08-19T08:53:00.000-05:00

A couple weeks ago my cousins were up visiting. I was able to go over and spend some fun time with them. Before they left, I wanted to make them something, so sat down and made these shirt one morning. They are very simple, but oh so fun!

I got the shirt actually at the dollar store. Then, pulled out my scribble paints, paper, and paintbrush. I drew some stencils on paper, cut them out and laid them on the shirts. This sword idea I looked up online.

Then I blopped some paint on a plate, daubed my brush in, and daubed it on the shirt.

Each shirt was unique and fit the kid's personality well I thought. Thankfully, the shirts fit too! :)

After painting, I set them in front of a fan for a "quick dry." All we had to do was iron them once dry to set the paint.

Camping Fun

2011-08-18T08:50:00.000-05:00

Oh what fun we have had the last couple days! (Not that every day isn't fun....)

I had the opportunity to go camping with this fun family:

We drove up the North Shore to Eckberg State Forest (everything else was full), found a nice piney campsite right on the river, and settled in for a couple days.

We hiked up the river (no, not the riverbank...the actual river) on Tuesday morning and that was quite an adventure hauling a 25 pound baby on my back :) But the river was shallow, and I only went in a couple times, and then, only one foot ;)

We went (well, the kids went) wading in this little bay while we sat on the warm rocks and rested. (What?! Yes....rested.....I needed it after walking down and up steps with said heavy baby. I'm not as in shape as I might give myself credit for, ha!)

And we napped at camp, ate popcorn and string cheese, watermelon and crackers. We watched the campfire smoke (oh yes, we are professional campfire-smoke-starters), practiced crochet, and listened to the little stream burble behind our site.

I wasn't sure how Little Girl would do camping, but it was a fine experience, thanks to the help of 4 extra babysitters! The highlight for the littlest sitters was pushing the stroller (with or without Sunita in) and taking turns holding her on their lap. She savored every bit of attention I'm sure.

So thanks, Martha, for a fun time and for your efficient care of us all!

Now I'm off to do laundry, fold tents, and re-stock my camp kitchen with things I neglectfully left behind so we're ready for "next time!"

Update

2011-08-17T08:51:00.000-05:00

Oh yes, an update on sickness.

It turned out that our little girl did have ear aches after all....one in each ear. After the "up-all-night" night, I took her in and got her some medicine. She immediately did much better.

Lucky girl also gets to use a Nebulizer twice a day to try and clear up a nastly little rasp she has developed. Hopefully it will go away soon.

And so, she is doing much better, and so are Mama and Papa :)

Initiation

2011-08-12T10:32:00.000-05:00

I feel like I've been initiated into the true rank of parents. I have, officially, "walked the floor" with a crying child late into the night. Poor kid. (Poor mom and dad too)

I'm hoping it was just an earache....just because I want a reason why she cried all night. Not that I want her to be sick, but this "guessing game" is not particularly my cup of tea.

Of course, if you read about the symptoms, it could be anything from teething, to allergies, to growing pains. Honestly. How is a new parent supposed to know! ha

And that's why I'm so glad I believe in God. I'm so thankful that even when I don't have answers, I know there is Someone all knowing, and all powerful, who is caring and watching over Sunita no matter what happens. And I can do my best and leave the rest up to Him.

And so, let the adventure continue!

Yes I dare...

2011-08-11T08:46:00.000-05:00

Do I dare tell you, truly, what we've been up to around here? I dare :)

Relishing ~ Summer and green backyards
Savoring ~ Grilled food and fresh green beans
Picking ~ two to three green beans from my ONE plant, every day. (Saving up for meals :)
Wiping ~ Endlessly wiping a little girl's nose
Watching ~ a spider spin a web on my book shelf....hmmm, maybe I'd better dust
Preparing ~ School supplies for incoming students
Bemoning ~ the fact that I left a load of laundry too long and now it's musty and I have to wash it again
Attempting ~ to go out on roller blades with a jogging stroller
Puzzling ~ over what to feed a little girl next
Struggling ~ with why a little one gets so many rashes
Schemeing ~ ways to be more organizied
Reading ~ The Trapp Family Singers
Enjoying ~ some new neighbors
Spending ~ too much time online
Dreaming ~ of get-together ideas, picnics, and camping
Forgetting~ to water my plants
Delighting~ in a little girl who loves to clap

Lovely

2011-07-20T08:35:00.000-05:00

Today, I have decided to take serious mesures to knock down a bad dry cough I've caught. I'm tired of being sick while trying to get rest and some things done.Thankfully, Little Girl and M. haven't got it yet....and I'm praying they don't.

So anyway, today I look lovely. I won't take a picture, but I'm sure you can use your imagination :) I've taken a head scarf (yes the kind older ladies wear) and wrapped it around my head and ears. It's holding some cotton pads over my ears to keep them warm and moist. Oh, have I mentioned, it's about 80 degrees out this morning? Anyway, my olive green scarf goes beautifully with my pink over-sized t shirt and blue jean skirt.....just to give you the picture there ;)
I heated two oranges in the microwave and ate them, followed by guzzling two mugs of hot honey-lemon water.
I've also heard that putting vicks on your feet and wearing sock helps....but I haven't gone that far yet.

So there you have it.....I'm hoping to rid myself of the cough today. We'll see. Meanwhile, since I look so lovely, I'll use some of my time this morning to see if I can get some blog posts rolling.

Wishing you a warm-filled, cheerful morning too!

Book Review: PrayerWalk

2011-07-05T16:33:00.000-05:00

Yes, another book review. I haven't read all these books at once, just am a bit tardy on posting the reviews.

Anyway, of the books I've read recently, this book by Janet Holm McHenry is my favorite. At first, I was skeptical of the book, title and all. Prayerwalking....who goes prayerwalking. How over-the-top! Yet, as I read it, I was interested and found many neat ideas and thoughts stimulated by the author.
I like the straight-forwardness, simple talk, and practicality of this author's writing. She is a high school teacher out west, and has many down-to-earth stories and points to make in the book.
Her main points are:

Prayer is important
We should make time to Pray
Exercise is important
We should take time to exercise
Combining both CAN be an act of faith

The book does not force you to feel you have to Go walking and Pray, but she offers her experiences, reasons, and practical tips throughout the book.

I like one of the things she says about habits:

It should be 3 D's. It should be a daily, disciplined descision.

And I agree with the quip even on the back of the book: It's time to exercies your prayer life.

You can find a copy of this book on Amazon.com or CBD.com

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Press as part of their blogger book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Book Review: The Blessing

2011-07-05T16:10:00.000-05:00

The Blessing, by John Trent and Gary Smalley, was a bit dissapointing to me.
I received this book from BookSneeze, and was looking forward to reading it for some time. Yet, I had a hard time reading much at a time, and had to force myself to finish.
   The book follows the premise (for me) of the Five Love Languages. It does have lots of stories in it, which is helpful and maybe the most interesting part to myself.
   The overall premise feels a bit stretched to me....of emphasizing Big lessons from Small verses in the Bible. I struggled with that aspect, feeling like it was an okay opinion, but a bit shaky to persist in it's importance.
   The book deals with "blessing" or loving/accepting your children by words, action, touch, and tone. The vaild point of the book is, as children, we want our parents to love us unconditionally and accept us. That I agree with. Yet as far as needing to "Bless" our kids, I got a bit lost in the authors jargon.
   I suppose, overall, I am showing my "Minnesotaness" and would rate this book as a bit too "feely" or "froofroo" for my taste. I learned valuable input from the book, but am not likely to pass this on to any other parent.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Book Review: The Sweetest Thing

2011-07-05T16:02:00.000-05:00

The Sweetest Thing, by Elizabeth Musser, was the first fiction book I've read in a long time. (Well, reading through books has been kind of put on a back burner for a while). Still, I was pleasantly captivated....at least when I got past the first few chapters.
The story line is set in the American Depression era, but focuses on the life of the rich more than the struggles of the poor during that time. I found this interesting, yet puzzling too. I have never (I think) read any books or information from that time period from this perspective. Therefore, while I found the story entertaining, I also found it hard to believe. It made me curious to dig up more information and biographies of the rich during that time. (Which I haven't done yet, so my review is still baised toward the unbelieveable...sorry).
The writing is smooth, though I found it a bit wordy. This author was new to me, and I laughed when I read her acknowledgments where she mentioned "Thanks for helping me cut this book down to a readable length." Because, even though she cut it I guess, I would say there was still that feel of a lot of extra detailing and descriptions that I could've done without. Therefore, to actually get into the story plot took me about 3 chapters.
So, in all, it was interesting, spurred my interest in studying some history, and was entertaining. But, it is not a book I will keep on my bookshelf long. There are others that I find more enduring and classic.

You can find a copy for yourself from Amazon.com if you'd like.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their blogger book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Forest Honey

2011-06-08T08:10:00.001-05:00

So, I finally tried it.....Forest Honey that is. I've been talking about it for a long while, waiting for just the right season, and it finally came.

I should've known better.

Basically, I saw a recipe in a kid's cookbook two years ago, that you can make a type of honey from pine needles. So I was dying to try it. The basic recipe is as follows:

Gather new pine needles
Soak in water overnight
Drain and discard the needles
Add sugar to the water and boil till thick

Why should've I known better? Because I've made candy before. Because I've boiled sugar before. Of COURSE it gets thick like honey. ha. The longer you cook any sugar syrup, the harder it gets (like peanut brittle, caramel corn, popcorn balls, etc)

So, really, this was pine flavored sugar water. Because for 5 cups water I had to add 3 cups sugar. Besides, I was impatient so I used Balsam needles instead of waiting for white pine needles. Oh boy did it smell! (Balsam is the strong-smelling Christmas tree type)

Need-less to say, I am pleased I finally tried this experiment...but wish I had thought it through (you'd think 2 years was enough!) because it tasted horriblly bitter, and I threw the whole thing out, and only afterward did I remember the candying principle and why it would get sticky. :)

So here you go....you can look at this post and see how "Forest Honey" turns out, but you don't have to try it at home (which I don't recommend any way)!

...yes, they caught fish

2011-06-07T15:07:00.000-05:00

Sunday, June 5th

Wows on our Walk

2011-06-06T15:07:00.000-05:00

Different

2011-06-06T12:24:00.000-05:00

I just needed to write this out, just to make it stick in my own head better (there's only so much I can tell myself in my head, then I either need to say it out loud or write it down :)

Is different bad? No. Different is just that.....different.

And goodness me, if I wasn't experiencing different things, I wouldn't be learning so much. Just like the little girl in the above picture. Her new fascination is "outdoors." She loves watching the branches sway, listening to the wind in the leaves, seeing colors of the sky and touching nature for herself. She is a very serious learner, and I could profit much from doing the same.

It just seems, there are days when I need a reminder. Different is just different. Take a breath. Relax. And don't take yourself so seriously Emily! Sometimes it's been really helpful to actually let out a laugh, and realize, there's more to life than my little box :)

So there you have it, thanks for listening. Now it's time to go out and enjoy the sunshine and my garden (I''ll try and share pictures soon).

Book Review: To Be Perfectly Honest

2011-05-25T07:37:00.001-05:00

I was really looking forward to reading this book by Phil Callaway. He is one of my favorite funny authors (with books like, "Who put my life on Fast-Forward?" and "How to make life rich without any money.")

Also, the premise of this book, To Be Perfectly Honest, looked to be very interesting.

After reading the book, I am still 50-50 on it. The funny-factor was on the dissapointing side. It was written in journal-style, making it easy to pick up and put down (which I was hoping for a book I couldn't put down). Of his books I've read, this one does not rank in my top 5.

The preimse of the book was as interesting as I hoped, though he didn't take it in the direction I thought he would. I still found the idea challenging to me...to live perfectly honest for one whole year. I find it challenging to think of all the areas we skip or fudge or exaggerate....that these too should be under a truth radar. That idea in itself was worth the read for me.

If you'd like to find the book to read, first I'd suggest your local library. Otherwise, you can find it on Amazon.com

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Press as part of their blogger book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Absent

2011-05-11T08:47:00.000-05:00

Yes, I've been a little absent from the blog for the past month!

But don't worry (not that you were), things are just peachy here. It's just that computer time is at a premium right now, and when I do get a chance to get on, there are other things I need to do than wrestle our computer to get pictures uploaded and blogs written without it crashing :)

As of late...here are some things we've been enjoying in our neck of the woods:

Spring...green grass, violets, mayflowers, promises of garden growing
Company visits and large Indian meals
M's brother visiting for 2 weeks
Card games and lots of laughter
Naps
Cute smiles from a little girl
Sunshine through our windows
Long visits in the afternoon and sometimes late into the night
Still working on schedule adjustments of having extra people in house
Differences in personalities and the interest and fun that brings
Eating out
Playing frisbee in the park
Good nights rest, though with 2 "wake up calls" in the wee hours
Wondering how I'm ever going to get anything done round here :)
Fresh chicken eggs
Fresh flower boquets
The expectation of friends being in town
Family
Quiet hours in the morning
Thunderstorms
Birds singing out my window

Book Review: The Final Summit

2011-04-11T20:46:00.000-05:00

The last book I read by Andy Andrews, was Heart Mender. That was a keeper. I was really looking forward to this book, The Final Summit, and honestly was a little dissapointed.

First, it was my mistake. I didn't realize this was a sequel, and so for the whole first part of the book, I was lost.

As a sequel, this book does fine. On it's own, it seems to jump here and there and not finish any thoughts for the first couple chapters. It gets better after that...if you can make it that far without loosing interest.

It was not as riviting a fiction as I had hoped. I tended to loose my place frequently, though that might be because of all the distractions and interruptions in our household right now, and it was difficult to keep picking it up and wondering what had just happened in the story.

Once I figured out what the book was about, I actually wasn't too interested in the topic as a whole. The idea of finding a two word answer for civilazation just didn't pique my interest. My favorite parts were the historical tidbits/biography portions in the book.

If you'd like a copy, you can find the book over here at Amazon.

A Colorful Grochery Trip

2011-04-11T05:53:00.000-05:00

This last week's shopping trip was so fun.

Not because of the great deals I got.

Not because of the amazing foods I bought.

But only because it was so COLORFUL when I got it home :)

Wishing you many cheerful shopping trips too....

A Green Party!

2011-04-10T17:56:00.000-05:00

Complete with:

Green Balloons
Green rice
Kiwi
Spinach Curry
Green Been Toran
Green table cloth
Green Streamers
Green-colored coconut cupcakes

I'd say it was all a hit, except for the green rice. That maybe wasn't so appetizing looking :)

Talk about simple

2011-04-09T17:53:00.000-05:00

I'm amazed at this blogger's ability to simplify her wardrobe! I just had to share her article....linked here... of how "much" she brought on their months-long trip to Italy!

"I fit everything of mine in half a suitcase, and the kids filled the other half. Instead of my wardrobe feeling spartan, I still managed to bring a little more than what I regularly use, but I’m heading in the direction I want with “fewer, better” clothes."

Being around my inlaws from India is a similar effect. Really, it's amazing how little clothes you really need to dress nicely and cleanly!

I'm newly inspired. Time to take a look at my clothes closet! I'll post an update if I have success ;)

Ridiculous

2011-04-03T16:12:00.000-05:00

This is a bit ridiculous.

I have just finished blogging about my quest for healthy desserts and snacks, and now I'm hungry for a snack. I can't tell you what I think sounds delicious right now, because that would make you want it too, and that would ruin the quest! ha

Ohy.

So, let's see. Here are some nice options:

Perhaps I will slice and apple and dip it in peanut butter.

Photo Source

or maybe I will slice a nice juicy orange.

Photo Source

Those things are quick right now, and will satisfy me till supper in about an hour. :)

How about you?

The healthy Snack/Dessert Quest

2011-04-03T15:49:00.000-05:00

Over here, Keren is on a quest...for yummy and healthy desserts. I have decided to join her on this quest for a couple reasons:

One.... I too love sugar. And I love snacking.
Two....I should not eat so much sugar, both for health of myself and health of little kiddo!

So, step one, joined by my in-laws, was an agreement that I would only cook a treat once a week.(Yes, I used to do more than that)

Step two....find some nice alternatives.

I start my quest this week.

Meanwhile, I will share this nice snacking recipe for a yummy muffin. It's filling and nice, good snack for a mamma needed healthy calories :)

Oat Bran Muffins

1 1/4 cup oat bran

1 cup flour

2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

1 beaten egg

3/4 cup applesauce

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup honey

1 Tbl oil

1/2 cup raisens

Mix all ingredeints until just moist. (Don't overmix or the baking soda won't work so well)

Spoon into muffin tin and back in a 400 degree oven for 16 to 18 minutes. Serve warm. (With milk!)

I have no pictures, but imagine a wonderfully moist, flaky muffin, nestled full of juicy raisens, being snacked on with a full, frothy glass of milk. :)

Book Review: Family Life Bible

2011-04-02T06:06:00.000-05:00

Here is a nice gift book for newlyweds. This Bible has a whole section in the front for recording family things....geneology, marriages, births, special dates etc.

Then, throught the Bible there are little insets with notes and insights from the Raineys on marriage and family life. If you've listened to their radio program, you know they have some good wisdom to share.

The pages are a bit thin, so be careful. But the font size is fine.

As far as a Bible goes, I guess there's not much more to say :) A Bible is a Bible.

You can find this one on CBD.com

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

A Breakfast Idea

2011-04-01T06:14:00.000-05:00

This is called Bread Upuma, and it's good :)

Ingredients:

Bread, cubed
Vegetables of your choice ( I used frozen stir fry ones)
1/2 onion, sliced
Little oil, for frying
black mustard seeds (fried with the onion first)
Salt and sugar to taste

First fry the onion and mustard seed. Then add veggies. Then add the bread cubes and keep stir frying. Then sprinkle with salt and sugar.

Book Review: God's Wisdom for Mothers

2011-03-31T18:00:00.000-05:00

I was looking forward to reviewing this book. It turned out to be a perfect fit for my morning reading routine. I was looking for something that summarized topical verses in easy-to-read sections. Perfect.

I am pleased with the book. I like the topics they summarized, even the titles of each section is simply a good reminder of what God would like to see in a Mother: wisdom, cheerfulness, patience, joy, compassion, discernment, honor, and respectfullness. I read a little bit each morning along with a chapter from Proverbs, and 3 pages of another book at the moment.

This book is just a collection of verses from the Bible arranged under each topic. Very simple. The verses are taken from the New King James Version. While most of the verses are really nice in this translation, I did compare them to my NIV version, and am not sure ALL are quite as accurate as they could be. Therefore, I'm a little cautious in my reading them without double checking them in another Bible.

I personally am really glad I have this book now, and will continue to read it often. It's a nice compliment to any "quiet time" needs. And for me, as a young mother, it's a perfect fit.

If you think you'd enjoy a book like this, you can find it here on Amazon.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Still Here

2011-03-31T10:51:00.000-05:00

Oh yes, I'm still here. We've just been a bit busy these last couple weeks. We were having company and then getting ready for more company too.

So we set up this fun little bedroom in our front room.

And now it's filled with company and everyone is getting used to new routines and activities.

I have many stories and pictures, but still am working on computer time.

Some things we've been enjoying:

Some good Indian curries
Naps
Card games
Spring
Walks
A little girl who is smiling and "talking"
Said little girl starting to sleep 7 hours
Pussy willows
Family
New words

A Look at Psalm 77

2011-03-13T11:52:00.002-05:00

Again, I've enjoyed reading through the Psalms.

Here is an adaptation of Psalm 77.

Quick Summary: A Psalm reminding the Israelites to remember what miracles God had done in their past

"I will remember the deeds ot the Lord, I will meditate on all Your works and consider all Your mighty deeds."

My Summary: A reminding of what God has done in my own "heritage" and life

"What heritage do I have to remember and meditate on?"

That God drew/taught my parents to know Him
That at the right time, God presented/prepared Bible studies for them and put the right teachers in place
That God gave me Christian parents to raise me....a Christian home
That God prepared a husband for me, all the way from India
How God brought that husband-to-be to little old Bemidji
How He brought him to know Him
The timing of it all
That God did plan a child for us, even though at times we doubted
How "easy" my pregnancy and delivery went

So Good!

2011-03-10T11:33:00.000-06:00

I adapted my standard muffin recipe to make a Blueberry Bran Muffin.

Oh YUM! did they ever turn out good :)

So, I thought that recipe was just too delicious not to share!

Blueberry Bran Muffins

1 1/3 cup flour
2/3 cup oat bran
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 egg
1 cup milk
1/3 cup oil
1 cup wild blueberries
cinnamon sugar for top

Mix together your ingredients. Spoon into 12 muffin cups. Sprinkle tops with cinnamon sugar. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes or until nicely brown. Devour warm or cold!

I did it again

2011-03-09T11:39:00.002-06:00

Honestly, I am lacking some courage to start cloth diapering. I really have good intentions (I've washed the diapers 3 times, ha) yet I can't seem to get going on actually DIAPERING my daughter in them. But soon, real soon, I will try.

In the meantime, I went ahead and ordered another good deal from Amazon. (Love those coupon codes in the Parenting magazine!) I got this package of 720 wet wipes shipped to my door for $4.00. Yup, that's right, $4.00. So nice!

That was after joinging Amazon Mom (which I am loving, since it gives me great deals and free shipping!). Also, I used the Subscribe and Save feature, for a percentage off, and the $10 off Amazon coupon. Nice. I'll let you know if I find any extra coupon codes :)

Spring is Coming....

2011-03-08T11:18:00.001-06:00

Oh yes, it's been a slower start than last year, but I can feel spring in the air!

I checked out a stack of about 10 gardening books from the library last month, and just now am getting around to reading them. A couple of the new ones are great reads, and have inspired me to try gardening again this year.

Above, I have started a few seeds with the help of my neighbor girl. I have more to start at a later time.

Here are some things I hope to do this garden season:

Make a "Pizza Garden" (full of pizza ingredients)
Make a "Moonlight Garden" (at my Mom's house for my little cousins...this garden would be flowers and such that bloom in full moonlight)
Fertilize and airate our backyard plot
Add some black dirt
Make 3 container gardens, two for our front yard, one for back
Make some miniture gardens in old gloves
Make a cold frame?
Make a trellis for peas of some sort
Use recycled stuff for my garden containers etc.
Grow a cuke in a jar

Here are my new favorite garden books:

Another Book Review: From the Library of A.W. Tozer

2011-03-08T09:35:00.000-06:00

I was really excited when this book became available to review. Between M and I, we are always looking for more interesting sermons and articles to read, and have found we prefer older stuff to newer. This book has selections all the way back from 354 AD.

This book is really a collection of excerpts from different writers and theologists from 354 to 1945 AD. The pieces are taken from longer essays or books, and while given a heading, really are just a snippit.

It still is/was helpful to me, since I could read a small portion of an author and decide if I want to find the complete work to read. I can get a sampling of the different authors that way.

The print is nice and easy to read. The selections are kept short, maybe between 1 and 3 pages. The introduction is helpful and informative about the man A.W. Tozer himself.

It's a nice book to have on hand for a quick take on stimulating sermons etc. It can be a quick read....just reading quickly through the whole book at once, front to back. Personally, I think it's best used in short, where you read one or two essays on a subject, and then just think about them or study them out more.

The book is divided into topics, where it has a collection of essays on, say, Worship or Prayer. This makes it easy for topical study/discussion.

If I were to compare this book to a meal (silly perhaps), but it wouldn't be the Main Dish (heavy and filling) and it wouldn't be the dessert (light and sweet), but more like a side of mashed potatoes (A nice compliment to a meat, somewhat filling but you'd be hungry if that's all you ate).

I'm sure if you'd like to check it out, the library might have it, but CBD.com does for sure.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their blogger book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

A Book Review: God's Promises Devotional Journal

2011-03-08T08:51:00.000-06:00

I have another book to review :)

I received this book to review from BookSneeze.com (Have I mentioned yet how I love their program?!) I was looking forward to reading/using this book since I've been trying to do a study on God's Promises.

The nice thing about the book, is it goes by day-of-the-month but no year, so you could use this at any year (doesn't get outdated). It's divided up into monthly journal sections, with one verse at the top, a short essay by different Christian authors, a question or two to get you thinking, and then 10-20 blank lines to record your own thoughts.

If you're looking for something short and sweet, pretty easy to keep up with on a daily basis, this book is for you. It doesn't contain enough lines for writing for the likes of me....but that's because I write big and write alot. There is just one page per day, and only one third of that page is for writing.

The essays by the different authors read much like a Max Lucado book (considering he is one of the authors, that makes sense). They are simple and quick to read. I think the essays were collected, and then a verse found to go along with the essay to print at top. Personally, I wish it was the other way around, since it would feel a little more like a Bible study then, rather than just Christian thought/opinion.

I believe it's a nice gift book, and really good for beginning Christians or Christians who are looking for a quiet-time help in a simple way.

It's not terribly over-bearing, and is about 400 pages thick (1 inch). The binding seems to be sturdy, and doesn't look like it will fall apart with use.

If you'd like a copy, you can find it on Amazon.com

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Is this yours?

2011-03-07T11:31:00.000-06:00

Uh, I think I've forgotten something.

I was folding laundry the other day, and pulled this t-shirt out of the laundry basket.

Is it yours? Or is it mine?

Because, you see, I don't remember ever owning a shirt like this, and I know it's not M's either. So, where did it come from, because I obviously washed it???

A Look at Psalm 20

2011-03-06T11:43:00.000-06:00

So, I've been reading through the book of Psalms in the mornings. It's been nice. A couple times, I've challenged myself to look at the Psalm I'm currently reading in a new light, see if I can apply it in now-a-day language.

Here is my look at Psalm 20 (read it along with the open Bible to see the comparison)

Quick Summary: This is a Psalm of the people praying for their leader
My adaptation: A prayer by me for the men's meeting nights

"May the Lord answer you when you face a pressing decision;

May the name of the God of Hosts protect you from argument and decensions.

May He send you wisdom from heaven and grant you help from the Holy Spirit.

May He remember all the times you have prayed and sought His counsel and accept the acts of service you have made Him.

May He give you the desires of your heart and make all your plans succeed."

"We the people will shout for joy when you finish a meeting/come to agreement and will give credit to God for success. May the Lord grant all your requests."

"Now I konw the Lord saves/protects those in leadership/those He has chosen. He answers them from His holy heaven with the protecting power of His right hand."

"Some trust in agendas, traditions, experience, and head knowledge, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God."

"The ones who trust in the wrong things are brought to their knees and are frustrated and fail, but we as a congregation rise up and stand firm in unity in Christ!"

"O Lord, uphold our leaders. Answer us when we pray!"

Bible Memorization

2011-03-05T09:42:00.002-06:00

I found this blog post on putting memory verse to song very encouraging. It has some great resources and I'd like to check out some of them. Thought I'd share the link here in case you are interested too!

Cooking when Company Comes

2011-03-04T09:46:00.001-06:00

So, I had a bunch of freezer meals ready for when our baby arrived. They were really handy and I was glad we had them!

We had some left still, this last week, and I found another great use for them! We had unexpected company over for lunch, and I was so glad when I looked in our freezer! Usually, I just eat letovers from the previous supper for lunch, but there wasn't enough for all of us and I started to panic. I opened the freezer door, and there I saw a nice couple hotdishes just waiting for use. Of course! I just popped one into the stove for a half hour and lunch was ready!

So, my tip to you today on When Company Comes, is set aside some hotdishes or dry soup mixes to have on hand for a quick meal. That way, when guests do stop by, you will have no qualms about asking them to stay for lunch.

Some good meals we've had success with from the freezer:

Chicken Broccoli Crescent Bake
Turkey Wild Rice Casserole
Tossed Lasagna
Pot Pie (Vegetable or Meat)
Pea Soup

Do you have any company ideas or great freezer meals? Leave us a link!

Cleaning Drawers around here

2011-03-03T10:39:00.002-06:00

Just had to share the pictures...it's so motivating :) I had told you I was cleaning the other day....here's the "yet-to-do" drawer:

And here's the done drawer :)

*happy sigh*

Making your home a haven

2011-03-03T09:35:00.000-06:00

Over at Abbi's blog and the Homespun heart they're doing a daily "making your home a haven" challenge. I've been enjoying reading along since it's something I've been thinking about recently.

So, I thought maybe it'd be good for me to join along too (even though I've missed a couple days)

My main goal right now, is to make our home pleasant and peaceful for M. to come home to after a long day. Also, for any guests we might have come over. As of late, I seem to be having some attitude issues, so I think that should be my first focus.

Haven:
A place of port, shelter, safety, refuge and assylum. (http://www.dictionary.com/)

My goals for today, to "Make our home a Haven"

Personal Time: Spend and hour reading - Right now I'm reading in Psalms, and have 2 other books to read (Feeding Your Soul, and Miserly Moms). Spend 10 minutes in memorization. Since I'm having attitude issues, I will pick 4 verses about attitude to memorize/review.

Family Time: Make granola bars today for M.'s snacking. Plan a relaxing activity for this evening.

House Time: Clean out my messy clutter drawer. Clean up kids toy area.

A Pretty Hair Clip

2011-03-03T08:40:00.000-06:00

Oh, look over here at this blog. Amy is doing a giveaway of this pretty hairclip:

I've always enjoyed long hair, and now that I have a kid...I'm curious how long I'll keep it long :) But either way, this clip sure looks simple and pretty to use!

If you're looking for more hair ideas, I'd go to the library and check out Braids and Bows. That book has a nice collection of pictures and easy-to-understand instructions too.

It's a day to try something different! Maybe instead of my usual ponytail or bun, I'll try something like this (I can't seem to get the picture so you can go see it at the link)

A Project

2011-03-02T10:32:00.000-06:00

Because I have 3 nieces...

Because I like playing with Marazuka dolls...

Because I found some clearance deals at Target...

And just because I'm a little weird...
I did a fun little project:

Yes, I understand White is not the best color for little kids....but I think it looked nice;)

I started off with this one. A little Scribble paint and fabric Rose (thanks to Mom)

And the same for this one...

And finished with this one!
Ta-Da!

Books I recommend

2011-02-28T10:06:00.000-06:00

There are some great kid's books on my shelf that I thought I'd share (in case you are looking for a book to read)

In no particular order, here are some of Sunita and my favorites right now:

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

I like this book for it's fun simplicity and good pictures. It also teaches the life of a butterfly. My only gripe is that it actually isn't accurate.....on the last couple pages it calls what the caterpillar makes a "cacoon." If the caterpillar is going to be a moth, that would be correct, but since it's a butterfly, it should be Chrysalis. I know, I know, it''s picky. But I guess it matters to me, because I took a marker and crossed it out in the book :) Yes, yes I did.

God Loves me More than That

I reveiwed this book earlier on my blog. At first, I thought I wouldn't read it much, but it has become one of my favorites. My favorite line is, "It's nice to know that my whole life through, God loves me more than that." I like to read it to Sunita so that she knows, no matter what, God loves her as she grows up.

Five Little Ladybugs

Another bug book. I'm partial to these ;) This one is just fun and has little "bugs" to touch and push.

Guess How Much I Love You

This book is a classic, and just a "warm and fuzzy" read.

The Carrot Seed

For a book that doesn't have many words, I sure find this one amusing! (So does my 5 year old neighbor) It's one of our favorite reads for a laugh. Plus, it's a board book so has easy-to-turn pages. My neighbor loves it because she can quote it herself. (i.e. read it to me)

Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes

I love how this book reads. It talks about babies from all over the world, how they are the same and how they are different. I enjoy reading it to Sunita especially because of having relatives in India. I like reminding her that everyone is special, no matter what part of the world they are born in.

Goodnight Gorilla

This book is an all-time-favorite of mine (and every kid I've babysat). Not sure what it is, but it's a keeper. This book actually has no words, but I've "read" it so long, I have a standard "story" that I read aloud now. Our favorite two pages are the black ones (if you read it you'll know what I'm talking about). The one that has all the "goodnights" (read in many different voices) and then simply the two eyeballs ("Who's in my bedroom with me?!")

Even if you don't necessarily have a kid to read all these to, I'd personally say you could get away with reading them yourself :)

I'm sure you could find them all at the library.

Or, you could get them from Amazon (where these images are from)

A weekday Project

2011-02-26T09:48:00.003-06:00

Our dryer has been on the fritz the last couple weeks. It at first stopped drying, and then started a horrendous squeal every time we ran it. Therefore, for the time being, I went the old-fashioned way of drying our clothes, and kept laundry to a minimum.

But there comes a time when I just didn't appreciate the racks of clothes hanging around. So I thought maybe I'd check into fixing it myself!

I "Googled" Squealing Dryer, and came up with a couple great websites. The main one I used, was Dave's Repair. (I highly recommend it if you need to fix the same problem as me!)

So first I set out the tools I would need: a Phillips screwdriver, a socket wrench, gloves, and some sewing machine oil.

And I un-plugged it from the wall.

It took a couple tries, but I finally figured out how to get the lid up. That was exciting to see progress :)
Then I stopped to feed baby.

The next step was to take off the front panel. This one took a bit more muscle and probably took me the longest of everything! (It helps if you read the directions and FOLLOW them about where to push and pull)
Then I took a break to feed and change baby. Took a phone call. Etc.

The front pannel was off and looking good (though linty).

Some unexpected springs fell out. Oops.
The next thing was to take the belt off and the "drum' out, but poor little me didn't have enough muscles to do it. Thank goodness for Grandma stopping by :) And she even brought a snack and her vaccuum cleaner so we could get all the lint out. :)

Quite a fascinating mechanism once you get it all taken apart! I oiled the bearings and moving parts, hoping that as the directions said, that would stop the squeal. Then we had to put it all back together. (Of course, after eating said snack, taking a baby break, etc)

After all was said and done, we turned the dryer on for a "test drive" and lo-and-behold, NO SQUEAL! Ha. Just goes to show you what one can do with a little reading and the right tools (and muscle from Mom).

The best part, was at the bottom of the article it said, "You just saved $100." Nice. Of course, I spent probably 3 hours doing it, but it was exciting to me.

Now on to the next problem....no heat. :) But after this....I'm sure that will be a cinch!

A Relaxing Morning

2011-02-25T09:48:00.000-06:00

It's a beautiful Friday morning, and we here at home have taken time to relax and enjoy the quiet and sunshine.

Little Kiddo is taking her regular morning nap on the couch.

Warm sun is streaming in through the front window, just to my rocking chair which is pefect!

I took time to check my email and set my "to read pile" out for the day.

Laundry is started.

The bed is made.

The dishes are....er....undone :)

Hope you're enjoying your week's end too!

When Company Comes: Cleaning

2011-02-25T09:19:00.000-06:00

This is a personal post. I mean, this is probably a very personal family preference as far as what I'm about to say. It pertains to cleaning.

When company comes, I must admit, it sends me into a flurry of cleaning things up. Particularly the kitchen floor and bathroom. I guess those get neglected more than I like to admit.

But either way, I tend to do a cleaning right before we know company is coming. Well, not RIGHT before, but if we will have supper guests, that morning or afternoon I will tend to start washing things up.

And here is where we come to the crutch of the matter.

If company is coming, washing the bathroom right before they come might not be the best time of choice. Why, you ask? Well, for our household, because I use PineSol cleaner, and it ends up being a fairly strong smell that lingers throughout our apartment.

M. comes home, and he can instantly tell I've been cleaning. And honestly, I'm not convinced that PineSol is the most aromatic or welcoming smell to come home to :)

So my advice (which I'll need to take myself), is if you know company is coming consider these options

Clean the bathroom the day before you know company is coming
Have a regular weekly day to clean the bathroom no matter when company comes
Clean the bathroom with natural cleaners that have a lighter smell or no smell
Just wipe down the counters
In the summer, open the windows
As a last resort, just make sure to clean the bathroom hours before company comes, and then burn a candle or make brownies or something

Cleaning

2011-02-24T09:12:00.001-06:00

Oh how I wish I had a picture to share!

Yesterday my "big" project was to clean out 2 of my 3 junk drawers. It was really refreshing. I cleaned out the "baggie and aluminum" drawer in the kitchen, throwing out things like broken clothspins, ripped itty-bitty pieces of aluminum foil, broken birthday candles, and a handful of twist-ties just because I still have a lot. I was able to organize the drawer with some boxes and jars to contain things that were sliding around like a clown on an ice rink. Such a nice feeling to open the drawer now!

The other drawer I did was our "tape and scissors' drawer in the dining room. This drawer had WAY more than tape and scissors in it! It had become a catch-all for my coupons, newspapers, miscelaneous papers and notebooks, pens that didn't work, random screws and brackets, a train whistle, a penny whistle, a yo-yo, stickers, glue sticks that were all dried up, and much much more! :) Again, I was able to clean out and recycle a whole bunch of stuff, making the drawer actually functional to find things now! ha!

I still have one more drawer to tackle someday. It's my "craft and catch all drawer." I'm afraid this drawer gets stuffed with small items that have no other home, or have a home and I just haven't put them away and instead shove them in this drawer. I know it contains really random collections, from paint to glue to pictures and cards and calendars. It probably has other surprises that I'll only find once I get to cleaning it. But that all depends on a certain Baby's napping :)

So, with or without pictures, I wish you happy cleaning too!

Book Review Time: Kid's Book

2011-02-23T08:52:00.000-06:00

I am tardy in posting this review. I read it about a month ago, just haven't taken the time to get on the computer and write about it....sorry about that!

I picked this book to review because I already had another book from this series (God Gave Us You). The books are definitely one style, and if you like one, you'll love this collection "God Gave Us So Much." (It's 3 books in one.)

However, I don't think these books are my favorite style.

The content of the 3 books is great, and is written to answer some big questions for little kids, like What is Heaven? and What is Love? I find the theology fine, but it's a bit wordy. (How do you cover those questions without being wordy I don't know!)

Even though they seem to be little kid books, I'd say they're more readable and appropriate for the 8-10 age range. This is mostly because any kid younger than that will not want to sit through all the reading. The pictures aren't interesting enough to keep a small child's attention long enough to read one page. The pictures are nice, I'm just saying for the amount of words on one page, it doesn't seem to keep the attention of the kid yet, and they want to turn the page sooner than I'm done reading.

So, if you like the, what I call, "lovey-dovey" style of art and pictures, you'll like these books. I'm not partial, so I think I'll skip out on any more books by this author and artist.

If you like it, I'm sure you can find it at the library, or on Amazon or CBD. (Or you can ask me for my copy)

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Press as part of their blogger book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Things to say

2011-02-23T08:41:00.000-06:00

So, we're getting into a nice routine around here. February has been very enjoyable as a month :)
Baby Sunita has gotten to where she sleeps 5 hours at night.....nice for mom! She therefore only wakes up once "during the night" and then takes a morning nap. She has almost outgrown her bassinet now too...but I'm hesitant to move her to a crib because of that once a night feeding. (Lazy mom :)

Other news, I'm getting much better at giving baths. Still, Grandma is the ace, and Sunita loves it when SHE gives her a bath, but we're working on our style here at home too :) Yesterday I didn't even smack her head on the side of the bathtub and the water stayed warm the whole bath, which means I'm getting more efficicient....ah what improvement!

Grandma also seems to have the touch of getting Sunita to sleep in many different positions, like tummy and back and side. Finally, as of yesterday, I too succeded in getting a certain little girl to take a nap on the couch. I think I didn't have as much to do with that as the fact that she is just getting bigger and trying new things.

Speaking of new things, I think she's just getting the hang of smiling on cue. She practically 5 weeks old now, and has been making some nice new noises and half smiles when you talk to her, which thrills her Daddy and Mommy!

Other than baby news, we have been slowly getting back into doing household projects and getting out for walks.

I have pictures of some fun projects I've worked on in the last couple weeks,but can't get them uploaded to the computer so you'll have to wait. Promise I'll work on that soon :)

It's amazing

2011-01-22T14:25:00.000-06:00

It's been a week already since we've been home! I promised myself that I would write down our story because it just amazes me every time! So, let's begin...

9:10am - January 12th, 2011
"Today I have my doctor's check up. The due date (Friday) is approaching soon! I haven't felt the best the last couple days, but I think it's nerves. Maybe, though, the doctor will say differently."

10:10am
"Well, so much for that. Doc says nothing at all is going on. I will probably be a week late she says."

12:00pm
"Felt much more relaxed this afternoon. Must've been more tense and nervous than I thought. I went grocery shopping, walking, and now a nice long nap!"

7:00pm
"Church time. Had fun visiting with the ladies. We teased that of all people, I might be the most likely to not even know when I go into labor! ha ha"

9:00pm
"Done with church and getting ready for bed. Ate 2 Tums because a little gasious-maximus."

9:30pm
"Not feeling too well. Shouldn'tve eaten those potatoes for supper I think. Sure wish I could burp."

9:45pm
"Mathew says stop tossing and turning. I will try and hold still. Very sleepy but uncomfortable."

10:00pm
"Boy, these gas pains are really bad. Maybe if I bite the covers while it cramps I will hold still. Oh, here comes another.Ugg. Wish they'd go away so I could sleep."

10:30pm
"Maybe if Iget up and walk around it'll go away. Oh boy.
*M. wakes up - You okay?*
I don't feel very *gasp* good."
"Should we go to the hospital?"
"No, it's *gasp* gas I think. Maybe I'll just walk *ohhh* a bit."
"I think we should go."
"gasp. No, *gasp* well, maybe"
I stand up and move to dresser.

10:40pm
"OH! I'm pretty sure that's my water just broke. Yup, *gasp*we'd better go. "

10:45pm
Called Dad and Mom to let them know.

11:00pm
Checked in to the hospital. Declined wheelchair since I could still walk, just grimaced once and a while.

11:15pm
The nusre checked us into a birthing room.
"Do you think we're in labor?"
"Maybe. We'll give it a bit of time here before we check too much. I see by your chart this is your first and you weren't doing anything this morning."
Put two doplar radars on me, one for muscle contractions, one for baby's heartbeat.

11:35pm
Nurse says she'll check on us every 20 minutes until 2:00 am. Then she'll check for any dialation.

11:55pm
"This is going to be a long night. Ouch."

12:15am - January 13th
Sat on big rubber ball for comfort. Squeezing M's hand. He watched the monitor's and narrarated for me while I kept my eyes shut.

12:40am
Moved to rocking chair. Feel like pushing so rocking vigorously and breathing heavy to control.

12:55am
"I'm not sure how others do this! I don't *gasp* think I can make it very long without medication at this rate! *gasp* Goodness, and this is only the beginning!"

1:00am
Nurse checks up.
"Nurse, how long before I can push do you think?"
"*surprised look* You feel like pushing?!"
"*gasp* yes"
"Maybe we'd better do that check up now instead of 2."

1:10am
I move to the bed for check up.
*surprised voice* "You are 9 cm"
"I am?!"
"She is?!"
"She is. I need to go call the doctor. You're going to have a baby!"

1:20am
"I hope the doctor gets here soon."
My eyes have been closed most of this time. M is doing a good job narrating for me...the nurse is...now she is...etc.

1:30am
"Emily, the doctor is here."
I open my eyes. Relief floods me, we made it! I'm so relieved in fact, that I stop feeing the strong strong urges to push and relax a bit.

1:35am
(Doctor) "Okay, push for 10 counts, 3 times in a row."
(Me) "Uh, push?"
"Yes, now here we go."
"Great, now it's time and I can't!"
"Just push"

1:45am
(Doctor) "Don't holler, use that energy for the push.
(Me, thinking) "I told myself I wouldn't be the kind to holler, but AHH"

2:00am
"Emily, listen, 'I can do alll things through Him who strengthens me.' "
(Me thinking) "Okay, no more hollering, let's concentrate on pushing."

2:06am
*after much unecessary groaning and a few good pushes later*
"It's a girl!!!"

And that's our story. After an hour of stitching me up (I tore pretty bad I guess...she was a big girl!) we were exhausted but done. We just sat in wonder for a long time I think, going over and over how it actually all worked out and the fact that it was done!

We stayed in the hospital till Saurday. Things I am thankful for:

The doctor who delivered Sunita
All the wonderful nurses
The fun visits and jokes we had with the nurses
The surprised look on my doctor's face when she checked in on me the next day
The huge and yummy hospital meals :)
Our healthy daughter
For M. being there the whole time
For ice packs
For visitors
For answered prayers!

Amd so now the next adventure begins!

Saturday Mornings

2011-01-22T13:25:00.000-06:00

We re-arranged our bedroom to minimize those winter drafts. This morning was so cozy and nice! Sunita slept 3 hours at a time, and then when the sun started peeking through the curtain we all stayed under the warm toasty covers having a relaxing, slow morning.
It was so nice having no scgedule, no blow-outs, no rush or fuss that I hope more of our Saturday mornings are this way in the future. It's nice having a family!

When Company Comes: How to Set a Table

2011-01-14T11:23:00.000-06:00

I was looking up poems online the other day, and bumped into this nice little website I thought you might enjoy!

"Table Setting Ideas"

Here are some excerpts from their page:

LUNCH

Use seashells, starfish and nautical-themed decorations to accent a striped table cloth, white napkins and clear glass plates and glasses

VIOLETS

Use a white tablecloth with white napkins.
Pick wild violets from your yard.
Scatter the violets over the table.
Fill cordial glasses with water and fill with violets.

Last minute orginazation

2011-01-12T11:12:00.000-06:00

There were some important, and not so important, last minute things on my to-do list last week. One of them was cleaning and organizing our freezer.

I decided between the above-the-fridge freezer and our little chest freezer there needed to be some consolidating.

Our Above-the-Fridge freezer was designated as our "quick meal" space. I filled it with pre-cooked beans, meat, veggies to steam, and some hotdishes from Mom. Now everything is pretty easy to access, and, I found out we're pretty set for the whole rest of the month. Nice!

The other freezer became my "misc and baking freezer." It's in this freezer that I found out how much zucchini we were blessed with last summer. Ha. How about at least 15 bags of it! Now I need to start using it up. Here are some plans I have:

Zucchini Pancakes (like Potato Pancakes)
Chocolate Zucchini Cake or cupcakes
Muffins with zucchini

Any other ideas?

What I Can Do...

2011-01-11T11:11:00.000-06:00

We are nearing the end....the 9 months have flown by! Here, in this last week, are some things I can still do...

Walk
Count on waking up at 2am every morning
Waddle with the best of them
Enjoy chocolate cupcakes
Feel my feet and fingers swell a bit
Dream about summer plans
Fit through our shower door....barely
Cry at the drop of a pin
Belly laugh
Cut my own fingernails (but not my toenails)
Enjoy sitting on an exercise ball
Wear dresses
Relax in our rocking chair
Be curious

2010-12-31T16:48:00.000-06:00

It's a wintry weekend, that's for sure! Temperatures have dropped, snow is being blown hither and yon, you can hear the trees and wind moan outside the windows.

But it's warm inside!

I've enjoyed more than a couple things these past few days:

Hot chocolate with toast
A new and VERY comfortable rocking chair
A big ball to sit and roll around on
Good books to read
Meals with family and friends
Hearing the baby's hearbeat at a steady 140 beats per minute
Still feeling the kid kick around (which is comforting at this point)
Drinking grapefruit juice
Having some extra time with M.
Eating some really good Indian breakfasts
Getting a load of newborn clothes and blankets washed and organized
Having a few spurts of lovely heartburn
Being thankful for our warm house and cozy carpets (and handy bathroom too!)
Looking forward to a friend's baby shower
Just enjoying the season

May you enjoy the year end and the new year beginning too!

Book Review: God Loves Me...

2010-12-31T16:24:00.000-06:00

Recently I received another book in the mail to read. This time was kind of exciting because it was a kid's book! I read it in about 5 minutes. Then, I thought that's not fair, I'd better read it to some kids too, to see if they liked it or not. So, I was glad it was Christmas weekend...there were lots of kids around to "test" it out :)

First, it's a nice kid's book in that it is NOT wordy. Some books have too many words per page. Not this one. Plus, it's written in rhyme which makes it fun.

The pictures were a big hit.....from Elephants dancing and hippos in mud puddles, to girraffes sticking out of a semi-truck. Those were the kids' favorites.

It's basically a book emphasizing that God's love is MORE than anything we can imagine....bigger, deeper, wider, heavier, softer, and higher. It's based off of Ephesians 3:17-19, "how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ..."

I do like how at the end of the book, it reminds us that not only does God love us, we should love Him back too, and that His love lasts our whole life.

So, I guess I'd describe it as a "Sweet" book. Maybe not the most theologically deep book you'll find, but depending on the reader, it can lead you to some great reminders and thoughts.

Every kid I read it to (ages 2-5), easily sat through the whole reading, and enjoyed the pictures. Is it one of their favorite books? I don't know. I think it's one they would hear again, but maybe not the kind they'd choose off a bookshelf of other choices. Only time will tell that part!

If you'd like to find this book, it is sold on Amazon here.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Press as part of their blogger book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

A Mousy Project

2010-12-22T11:01:00.001-06:00

Keeping things simple this year, I was able to make these fun little mice for a nursing home. I haven't done this project in years!

It was fun, and I finished feeling quite accomplished :) Just some felt scraps, a glue gun, some googly-eyes, candy canes, and papers.
It started off with one for the mailman, then adding a couple with my neighbor girl, and then done 26 later! ha

Now, to just get them delivered on time!

Haven't Done Much

2010-12-21T11:01:00.000-06:00

This year I haven't done much in the way of anything seasonal. This morning I particularly felt like I've just let the holiday "come what may."

Part of that is I just didn't plan ahead.
Part of that is situational right now.

But today, I felt a little dissapointed that I haven't done more to change my "whatever" attitude. I had done a little decorating, but not as much as years before (and that too was minimal) but that also means minimal clean up :)

This year I just put my snowflakes on my mirror instead of hanging them up....no chair climbing for me at that point. Plus, my beautiful Poinsettias that I picked out are looking worse-for-the-wear, which I guess is really normal for my houseplants, but still, they should've done better! :)

Once again this year I neglected to get my act together and do my version of the Jesse Tree. But, I read over my notes and added some more stories and details, so each year I am more prepared for the year I actually DO it! ha

But, this morning, I felt like I should really do a couple small things in my house to at least add some flavor to my day!

I hung up a couple more decorations.
I made some fudge.
I wrote out some cards and got them in the mail.
And I dug out my nice Christmas CD.

There is freshly fallen snow out my window, and I think today looks like a nice day to go for a walk and then take a cozy nap!

May you also be enjoying the season!

A New Arrival

2010-12-21T10:51:00.000-06:00

We have a new addition to our household. No, it's not the January edition, that's still coming. This one is smaller and tidier.

Ta-da:

Yes, we have a landline now! :)

After doing some calculating and lots of discussion and research, we decided it would work out great for us to get a landline.

Call it sentiment. Call it nostalgia. But I'm really enjoying it!

I like having an answering machine that I can stand and push a button and listen to a message....nothing glued to my ear.

I like hearing it ring throughout the house.

I like the caller ID.

I like answering it.

I like having a larger phone to hold in my hand.

Call me crazy, but if I was able to find an old hook-and-line phone I probably would have got it.....the old fashioned ones with the heavy handset and click-clack dialer. But, the cordless is really much more practical at this point, so we stuck with that!

So if I sound particularly chipper when I answer your phone call, you now know why. If I don't, well, chalk that up to lack of sleep! :)

When Company Comes: A Re-Post on Pretty Tables

2010-11-19T09:00:00.000-06:00

Knowing that Thanksgiving meals are coming up soon, I thought it would be nice to re-post this blog from my archives. I still like these ideas, and once again, have tried a couple this fall! Enjoy!

There is something so attractive to me about making table settings pretty and using fall beauty! Here are some favorites from 3 different sites:

This, in my opinion, is fantastic, but would definitely NOT go on a table! Maybe on the piano?:)

I like this chocolate bar idea! :)

Wishbones! How interesting!

This picture is for the pats of butter, cut out in cookie cutter leaf shapes!

And using edible name tags! Hmmm....

This one is just funky!

And I actually really like this, more than a wreath. :) I think I could do this!

And I wonder how this would look in our dining room???

And color....I just love bright colors.

Rocks. Plain and simple.

But individual arrangements? That's cute.

And a bouquet doesn't just have to be flowers....greenery works too!

For how to do any of these, as well as more pictures and ideas, check out these links:
Better Homes and Gardens

Martha Stewart

Country Living

Book Review: The Strategically Small Church

2010-11-19T08:21:00.002-06:00

Another book I've had the pleasure of reading recently is The Strategically Small Church, by Brandon O'Brien.

This book is very well written making reading it a breeze. I believe it only took me a couple days to finish it. (Plus I was very interested in the topic presented)

The book is written with the purpose of encouraging those in small churches to look at the positives rather than the negatives. It also is written for those in ministry, to stimulate a different approach to traditions, standards, expectations, and programs.

I found his interviews and opinions quite intriguing, and wrote down many quotes for me to think about and "chew" on later, such as,

I very much enjoyed this book, and have already shared it with a couple others. I am curious as to their opinion on it, since I wonder if it was so relevant to me since it was a very familiar topic to me since childhood.

Either way, you can check it out of course either at Amazon.com or CBD.com.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their blogger book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

"...every community has needs. Loving our neighbors means considering their needs - not just adopting the latest trend - before we launch our ministry initiatives."

"We must recognize and acknowledge that God is at work even when and where our church is not."

"If a small church finds out that the key to success for a larger church in town is short, exciting sermons, they shouldn't give up their long an dweighty sermons simply to attract new people. These are important issues that are a matter of remaining faithful to God and His commands. If we change the way we understand these things, it should be because our convictions about God's revelation have changed and not because current trends are now leading in a new direction."

"As a small group, look at what you CAN do because you are small rather than what you CAN'T do."

Book Review: Beyond Opinion

2010-11-19T08:11:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I have some Book Reviewing to really catch up on!

Here's one that was a hard read, but good too: Beyond Opinion by Ravi Zacharias.

If you know anything about Ravi Zacharias, you know that he is a Christian apologist and deep thinker. We've enjoyed watching some of his debate clips on YouTube.com, where we were first introduced to him.

Anyway, he and his team wrote this book about Living the Faith We Defend.

It's broken into chapters per topic addressed, such as Hinduism, Atheism, Post-Modernism, etc. and is basically a book written about answering the difficult questions we all have in a thoughtful, logical, and gentle manner.

This book is NOT a fast read, nor light reading. Hence the late review! It's the kind of book that I will keep on hand and re-read again, since it takes a while for this sort of writing and argumentation to sink into my brain.

It is on my recommendation list though. If you'd like to find it, you can purchase it on Amazon.com or CBD.com.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from BookSneeze.com as part of their blogger book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Still here

2010-11-18T15:11:00.000-06:00

Ah, I'm still here. Just haven't taken much time for blogging recently! There are many things on my to-do-list as of late, and this one falls to the bottom of the list every time :) Maybe I can do better in the coming weeks...

Here are some recent happenings:

Had Company, and then went to visit Ula

Enjoyed the first snow and the pretty frost

Had my Christmas Cactus bloom for the first time in 2 years!

Worked on some fun craft projects

Plus some napping, choring, reading, writing, searching, walking, resting, playing and in general Very Much Enjoying This Season of Life!

When Company Comes....Table Inspiration

2010-08-27T15:23:00.001-05:00

I found these ideas over at MarthaStewart.com

When Company Comes....Cook!

2010-08-20T15:26:00.000-05:00

Yum yum yum. I think homemade cinnamon rolls are one of the tastiest things ever....warm.....carmally...fresh. *sigh*

I've been looking at and bookmarking some recipes to have on hand for when we have overnight guests. Most of these I've found related to Christmas time, but the pictures sure make me drool!

Presentation adds so much to the dining experience!

But for some inspiration, just check out these sites:

Walnut Lane Inn's recipe collection and pictures
About.com's crockpot & freezer breakfast recipes
Allrecipes.com roll recipe
FoodNetwork's Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls

Or, to really make your appetite kick in, type in "overnight breakfast recipes" into Google and then click the Images tab to see a bunch of delicious looking breakfasts!

Happy Cooking!

Cleaning

2010-08-18T08:08:00.000-05:00

The other day I was looking up tips and such on keeping things clean. Mostly it inspires me to do a better job, and now that I have a few more hours in my day, I'm doing much better at that. :)

My new mentality I'm trying ('cause I got lazy) is that "a meal isn't over till the dishes are done." I don't know about you, but that makes for some looooong meals at our house :) Sometimes I'm not even done with "breakfast" till I'm starting supper. But, it's working. Slowly but surely. I guess that's the way discipline and/or a new habit are anyway.

I've really enjoyed browsing around at Tipnut.com They just have some fun stuff.

But my favorite quote of the week:

"Take a couple minutes a day to run through the bathroom."

Ha ha. Now, just so you know, this little quote was buried amidst a list of "Things you can do in 10 minutes to keep your house clean" or something like that. And really, the list was quite helpful. Until I got to that one.

I know I've wanted to stay active and get moving, but "running" through my bathroom for 2 minutes....weeelllll.....that one kind of stretches my imagination. I'm pretty sure I'd have to make about 50 three foot laps to even make it to one minute, though if you add in the amounts of toe-stubs and door bangings I'd end up doing, maybe that would make up the time. But either way, I'm not sure that the goal would be accomplished. :)

But it was great for a laugh anyway :) Now off to cleaning....

To try sometime....

2010-08-17T15:39:00.000-05:00

I want to bake these sometime....soon too....

Bagels

( I have the cream cheese already....)

Soft Pretzels

(And I have parmesan cheese....)

English Muffins

(Now all I need is the time)

Week 18...

2010-08-16T14:56:00.000-05:00

I had the first ultrasound last week. That was nice, but not as cool as hearing the heartbeat the first time. :) The kiddo is still pretty relaxed in there, and I haven't felt alot of movement yet.

Things from this week....

Rice Bags are wonderful for head colds
Colds are not so fun to have at this time of year
Mint Ice Cream is certainly delicious
Sun sensitivity is in high gear
Part time hours are wonderful
That keeping active is definitely something I almost have to "schedule"
That resting is also something I have to practice (as in, not writing, reading, but actually sleeping)
That there really is something to this "emotional hormone" thing, though I'm still skeptical
I realize that in order to use this season and enjoy it to it's full extent, I really need to be purposeful! And that's harder done than said.
That I have a new "to-read" book list
That it's nice to have vaccuumed floors and a clean table :)

And for some reason, the description of "How big is baby" for this week just struck me as funny: "Your baby's ears are now sticking out from the head."

hahaha :) Sure paints a funny picture doesn't it? (I know what they mean, but STILL! ha)

When Company Comes : A peek in the past

2010-08-06T10:27:00.000-05:00

I've told you before about the old book my sister gave me, "Betty Crocker's Easy Guide to Entertaining."

Everytime I read it, I have such fun. There really are some great ideas in it, but some of it is so classic. Here is an excerpt for your reading pleasure:

"One of the best cooks I know skips appetizers and serves her first course in the living room before small dinners. 'It really is a time saver. It keeps my guests occupied with something to eat while I am in the kitchen dishing up my main course and getting it to the table. I join my guests with a small serving of the first course for myself, and slip out before they have finished to heat rolls and attend to other last minute duties.' "

"Her first course is always something that can be assembled in advance on separate plates, such as an avocado half filled with mayonnaise and capers, or small aspics, or a crab ravigotte."

"She hands a fork and dinner napkin with each plate. When her main course is on the table, she moves guests to the dining room by saying, 'Shall we go in? Just leave plates, but will you bring your napkin?"

"Later, when she leaves the dining room briefly to get dessert or start coffee, she takes a minute or two to pile the first-course dishes on a tray and take them to the kitchen. This takes only an instant, but leaves the living room cleared as if by magic."

Happy Entertaining!

Here are some interesting recipes from this book that you might like to try (but not me!)

Hearts of Palm Salad
Vichyssoise
Chilled Tomato and Cucumber Soup
Avocado Mousse
Olive Creamed Potatoes
Stuffed Leg of Lamb

When Company Comes: A Schedule

2010-07-30T10:22:00.001-05:00

One idea I read once, was posting a "schedule" for the day (for long term guests), either using a blackboard, posterboard, or white board.

Keep it simple, but you could include things like:

The weather forecast for the day (you know, sunny, cloudy, raining, etc)
2-3 Timed events (i.e. Breakfast @ 8, Bike ride at 4pm, Ice cream at 7:30pm)
A good morning quote

Happenings this week...

2010-07-29T11:29:00.000-05:00

At 15 weeks (3 months) I....

Have caught up on a lot of sleep
Am not taking evening naps anymore
Am slowly getting hungrier and hungrier
Still haven't gained any weight
Have grown out about an inch or two I suppose (just looks like I'm "pouchy" now)
Still haven't heard the heartbeat
But I think I can start to feel it move
Haven't read any books this week
But have bookmarked a couple helpful blog posts
Sometimes get anxious
Need to drink more water
Have started making more lists
Went for a bike ride and didn't fall off

So there you have it. :)

My one dissapointment is I still can't find a heartbeat. My co-worker lent me her stethascope, and we were all excited to hear the heartbeat at home. But, it's been a week now and I still can't find it. I guess it's about as big as an apple now, you'd think I'd be able to locate it! Ah well....I guess I'm still too well "padded." :)

The other kind of fun thing is I think I felt it move today for the first time. Well, I just feel a bit funny while sitting at work, with like burbles & water bubbles doing weird things. Whatever it is, I decided that's what I'll pretend it is at least :)

Blueberries

2010-07-29T10:11:00.000-05:00

Blueberry season is here. I am trying my best to get out when I can and pick "gallons."

The only thing is, I might be a fast picker, but I'm a slow cleaner, so I have to pace myself a bit :)

Blueberry Pie.....here we come!

Tasty Treat

2010-07-26T09:53:00.000-05:00

Chocolate pudding
Whipped Topping (mixed in the above)
Grahm cracker crust (grahm crackers, butter, sugar, mixed)
Fresh Strawberries
Cupcake liners

Congratulations Tracy & Andrew

2010-07-24T09:56:00.000-05:00

We went to their wedding, oh about 3 weeks ago now. I'm just a little behind in posting. Plus the fact that when I looked through my pictures, I neglected to take any pictures of the bride, groom, or people, but lots of the cake. Ha! But the cake was pretty too :)

Summer Table Boquets

2010-07-23T09:58:00.000-05:00

When Company Comes: Saying Goodbye

2010-07-23T08:15:00.000-05:00

I love this book, "A Life that Says Welcome" by Karen Ehman. It has alot of ideas I'd like to incorporate in our home eventually.

One of those ideas is that art of Saying Goodbye:

"The final moments of a visit can come too quickly and be filled with mixed emotions.....No matter what time they leave, don't let guests go empty-handed. Give everyone a special token as a reminder of their stay. There is excitement for the time spent together and sadness that it is coming to an end."

Some ideas include:

A box of chocolate and a "thanks for visiting" card
A local treat (fresh picked blueberries)
Maple syrup
Jar of homemade jam
Loaf of homemade bread
A framed picture of something you did while here
A recipe card
Small trinket
Busy work for little hands....sewing cards, picture books, crayons
Fresh filled water bottles & some cheese & crackers
Picnic Lunch
Cookies
Hot cinnamon rolls

Do you have any more you'd like to add?

Went to Duluth

2010-07-22T10:11:00.000-05:00

I had the chance to go to Duluth with some wonderful friends last Saturday.

We spent the day hiking, driving, and taking pictures.

It was pretty funny watching all of us exploring.

Even though my camera doesn't do it justice, it was sunny and beautiful out.

Trying hard to get the right shot.

And afterwards, we headed out to eat for some Italian food and ice cream. It was a lovely day.

Homemade Waffle Bowls

2010-07-22T09:47:00.000-05:00

Yum!
The other day I decided I was hungry for ice cream in a waffle cone or bowl. I also decided that it must be something you can make at home, and I was right. Though, it wasn't quite as succesful as I first imagined!

I found a couple batter recipes, here, here, and here. All contain basically the same ingredients:

3 eggs

3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 tsp vanilla
1 cup flour
2 tsp baking powder

Beat the eggs and gradually beat in the sugar until the mixture is creamy.
Stir in the melted butter and vanilla.
Combine the flour and baking powder, and then add it to the mixture. Blend it in well.

Here is where it got tricky. Most sites said to use a pizzelle maker or Krumkake machine , which I don't have. Hmmm....what to do?

Nope, in my waffle maker they made, guess what? Waffles! ha

So I got out my griddle and tried my best to make them thin round pancakes. The first were a bit thick, but I got better and better.

This is how I decided to make my pancakes into bowls. I slipped the pancake over one glass and gently set a bigger glass on top. It cooled in about 2-3 minutes.

Now, both M. & I thought they were delicious, but we actually ate them without the ice cream. We just snacked one them as-is. :)

I wasn't very good at storage, so they got a little soft by just keeping them in a tupperware container.

This website, Skip to My Lou, has some great pictures and success it looks like. I'd recommend going on over there to follow her steps. :)

What I've Learned so Far

2010-07-21T09:47:00.000-05:00

There are alot of books to read
I shouldn't read all of them
That I should take one week at a time
Napping is wonderful
One hour lunch breaks work well for 45 minute naps
Orange juice is delicious
So are blueberry waffles
Evening naps are nice
That a baby's hearbeat is 153 beats per minute
There is a lot to be thankful for
Have I mentioned that I am tired? :)
That I need to eat even if I'm sleepy
That I need to eat snacks
That processed food snacks make me feel worse
Cooking is unimaginative right now
Indian dishes are very satisfying
Walking is good
I can survive doctor's appointments
Not all people enjoying talking about pregnancy
That it is God's gift

When Company Comes: Enjoy Nature!

2010-07-16T09:41:00.000-05:00

This summer I have been really enjoying the "weeds" that grow around my backyard and to & from my walk to work! :)

I forgot to take a picture of my table, but my July goal is to keep my table clear, clean, and have a vase of fresh flowers on it. I also have some really fun place mats from India that add a nice touch.

I think it's so pretty to have flowers and greenery around our house, and it makes a simple but refreshing way to decorate when company comes. (As long as you are aware of alergies)

Just for fun, I was browsing around Better Homes & Gardens for ideas and inspiration, and I found these beautiful ideas:

Since we don't even have a fence, much less a gate, I thought that I might be able to do this on my front door... :)

The above images were from Better Homes & Gardens

This image from here.

And this image is from Martha Stewart, here.

What to Do with Sesame Cookies

2010-06-30T09:20:00.001-05:00

So, the other day I decided to make some African cookies. Nigerian Sesame Cookies or Benne Cakes to be exact.

They are supposed to be crunchy & delicious, and look like this:

Image from Family Fun.

I liked it because I have a ton of sesame seeds to use, and there weren't that many other ingredients.

But, when I made them, mine looked like this:

Don't be fooled....I did NOT spread this into the pan like bars. I carefully rounded each spoonful, and set them 2 inches apart on the cookie sheet to bake!

So what do you do with flopped cookies?

Because, they were too sticky to even cut and take off in squares, I made them into these:

It works for me!

Sigh Ironing

2010-06-29T10:44:00.000-05:00

My ironing basket always seems full. It's one of those things I always leave for later.

On Friday I read this nice post on ironing. It reminded me to "just do it" and get it done.

I especially like tip numbers 7 & 8

"Occasionally pray for the wearer of the shirt or dress you’re ironing…unless you’re busy discussing life, supervising phonics, or helping someone with a recipe.

If, sitting in church after a very busy week, you notice a child in a wrinkled shirt or dress, squint. All the wrinkles will blur into smoothness. Then concentrate on praising God for His goodness rather than worrying about unfinished work." ~ Annie Kate of TeaTime with Annie Kate

Another walk

2010-06-28T09:51:00.000-05:00

You know, when I first moved into town, I was a little dissapointed on the photo opportunities. I thought there just wasn't really that many things to take pictures of on my walks. But, I was wrong. The more you look, the more you find!

Beautiful storm clouds

Straight streets where you can still see the sky.

Peaceful sidewalks with a bower of shade

Fun "secret" walkways

Neighborhood Gardens

Hidden animals.

(Can you see the hidden animal?)

(Don't worry....neither did I. I heard it....maybe a woodchuck or something....but I thought if I took a picture of the general area, maybe I'd find it later, ha!)

How the garden grew....

2010-06-26T09:39:00.001-05:00

(This cracked pitcher is my "self-watering" can...fill it up and let it be)

And in reality.....this would be your first impression of the garden when you saw it.....I think I got a little over-zealous about "square foot" planting...

And a little under-zealous about weeding.....

Crafty Kitchen for pennies

2010-06-25T10:40:00.000-05:00

I decided that for neighborhood kids and neices, a play kitchen would be fun. I also decided that I couldn't/wouldn't just go buy one or the lumber for one. Someday, I'd like to make a simple one out of wood, but for my purposes, cardboard worked fine!

I started off with some recycled cardboard boxes. Two to be exact.

I used my hot-glue gun to attach all the pieces together.

I then used some leftover sticky contact paper to cover the top half of the kitchen.

I used my recylcing bin for creating the "stove"

For the bottom half, I had run out of contact paper, so I hot-glued some extra fabric all around the base. (The blue checked stuff)

I cut and hemmed a "curtain" for the front, and attached it also with hot-glue, though it would've been nice to be on a string or rod to move a little better.

On both sides, I inserted those little brass hooks, to hang stuff on...like a potholder and dish towel.

Under neath, I filled the "fridge" with an empty juice bottle, half an egg carton with plastic eggs, and a couple dishes, and some coloring books. :)

There are some adjustments I should've made, like turnable knobs, and a little bit shorter for the littlest kids, but, for pennies, and as an "experiment" to see if the kids even liked playing with it, it was worth it for me!

Head on over to Life as a Mom for more money-saving ideas today :)

When Company Comes, you should have.....Good Pancakes

2010-06-25T09:20:00.000-05:00

This morning I made pancakes for breakfast. Not that you are terribly interested in that fact, or that I am terribly interested in telling you what I make every day for breakfast, besides the point that we had no company. But, there are some key points I thought I'd share, just for fun.

1) Neither of us are very fond of pancakes *gasp*

2) I think it's because I like "light" pancakes rather than very dense

3) This morning I thought to experiment with the batter to make it lighter (I think I read this somewhere at sometime, someplace)

The recipe calls for buttermilk, but I used 1/2 regular milk, and 1/2 ginger ale. :)

And it worked!

The result was a nice, fluffy pancake....without a hint of ginger I might add!

So, without further ado, here is a nice recipe for company pancakes:

1 cup flour

1 tsp sugar

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp baking soda

3/4 tsp baking powder

1 egg

1/2 cup ginger ale

3/4 cup milk

2 Tbl oil

Image from here.

The other fun thing you might try sometime, is making cookie-cutter shaped pancakes!

I read this in a book, but the above image is as close online as I could get (every other instruction says to cook the pancakes and then cut them out...nah)

From what I remember, you would grease a cookie cutter (with oil), set it on your hot griddle, and then pour in batter. Let cook until brown and bubbly (like usual), but then, flip the whole works over. If the cutter was greased sufficiently, the pancake should slide down to cook the other side (and still keep it's shape). After that you should be able to remove the cutter.

Have fun!

January 17th, 2011

2010-06-24T08:14:00.000-05:00

Pretty Flowers...

Thanks Keren :)

Another good book from BookSneeze

2010-06-15T16:48:00.000-05:00

Mind Your Own Mortgage, by Robert Bernabe was a good book to review. Valuable information? Yes, I think so. If you can plow your way through the middle, the beginning and end of the book are very helpful.

For a finance book, it is well written in plain language. The author is definitely of one mind set in the mortgage area, very adamant that fixed rate mortgages, shopping around, and buying a mortgage based on total price are the ways to go. He details these points with examples, “how-to” steps, and personal stories.

      This book was a helpful and informational read. It presents useful details and opinions on the mysterious mortgage market out there. I believe the author is well versed in what he writes, though very adamant in his viewpoint. For me, it was a good starting point for understanding and formulating a plan on mortgages. I think if I was already in a mortgage, I might be a little depressed from reading what “I should have done.”

    From the book, I branched off and was able to do my own research and understand what I was reading. My only grippe was that in the book he kept referencing his downloadable worksheets and calculators, but when I went online to check them out, you have to pay a yearly fee to access them. I wish that it was made clear in the book that they weren’t free. Or, if someone paid for the book, maybe they’d have automatic membership to his tools.

   If you’d like to access a copy of your own, it’s available at Amazon.com. (or check your local library, or me!)

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from BookSneeze.com as part of their blogger book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Idiappum

2010-05-18T14:17:00.001-05:00

This really turned out delicious! Of course, when I read the recipe, I had no idea it would look like this, but that's okay as long as it's good.

This is called Idiappum. And Indian "quick" dish.

Boil some eggs and set aside.

Soak noodles of your choice (I used whole wheat spaghetti noodles) in cold water for 30 minutes. Then, boil water and add the drained noodles in it for all of 3 minutes. Drain again.

In a fry pan, fry up garlic, onions, almonds, and green pepper chopped. Add 2 tsp curry powder and some salt.

Add the noodles and fry.

Garnish with egg slices. Yum!

Bread Recipes

2010-05-13T14:28:00.000-05:00

I got Mary Gubser's "America's Bread Book" from the library the other day....and had to renew it twice just because I loved going through it. I marked quite a few recipes to try and have only completed a few so far.

Really, it's a fun book!

I guess these recipes are collected from every U.S. State. It's fun to read the stories and history along with each recipe.

But now I had to return it. And you know what, I didn't take any pictures of the bread I've made so far! ha

But, I typed out a few more to try, and I'll make sure to document.

So I guess, this is really a shameless promotion of the book. If you like to bake, you'll like this book. Check it out from the library and see :)

Shrimp Curry

2010-05-11T14:00:00.004-05:00

This was our first try at making prawn (or shrimp) curry.

It turned out tasty, which was nice.

Most of all, it was fun to watch the chef in the online video cooking, making it all look so simple. And it was nice to have M. peel and cut the prawns for me.

I'm not a big fan of seafood myself, so honestly, I picked out the shrimp and just ate the gravy on rice. :)

Fiction Book Review: Somewhere to Belong

2010-05-10T16:57:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Bethany House Publishers, I had the opportunity to review Judith Miller’s book, “Somewhere to Belong.”

Let me just tell you, it’s been a long time since I’ve read an adult historical fiction book!

The story was set in a quite Amana Church Colony in Iowa. The plot centers on two young ladies and their character building struggles. While the summary makes it sound very uplifting, I guess I expected a little more depth to the characters and to the relationship to God they were supposed to have. You can definitely tell it is book one of a series, with the many un-finished conversations the characters have.

The book is fairly detailed in the mannerisms, lifestyles, and customs of an Amana Colony, and it is nicely woven in with the story so as not to bore you with facts. It is an easy to read story.

Personally, I thought it barely squeaked by into the “Christian” fiction category. It certainly was clean, nice and sweet, but it lacked the depth and development I was hoping to find in a Christian cast of characters.

You can find the book here at Amazon.com or CBD.com

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their blogger book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Veggie Pizza

2010-05-04T13:45:00.000-05:00

Sometime a couple weeks ago, I went to a friend's house for a Tupperware Party.

I'd never been to one of those before, so it was kind of fun.

My friend made this yummy veggie pizza for snacks....it was YUM!

Veggie Pizza:

One container crescent rolls, rolled flat on pizza pan

Bake till brown

Mix sour cream and dry ranch dressing

Spread on cooled crust

Chop veggies of your choice. In this picture, black olives, brocolli, cauliflower, and carrots.

Eat or chill and eat.

Winter Retreat Survey

2010-05-04T13:34:00.000-05:00

Hey, just a quick note. There is a survey about the Bemidji Winter Retreat over at the church website.

Maybe you'd like to go over there and take a peek and fill out the survey if you came to the winter retreat :)