Our Simple Journey of Faith, Family and Life

Friday, December 31, 2010

Friendship Seeds

Perfect simple gift to share with your friends, neighbors, etc. year-round. inexpensive and shared from your heart.



Put a mixture of flower seeds in a jar and add this poem:


In this little handmade packet
You will find some friendship seeds.

Plant with love and tend with care
And guard against the weeds.

Friendship seeds are hard to grow
The roots take hold with time

But the blooms which are produced
Are the sweetest you will find.

The petals will not fade away
True friendship never dies

For your friends are beautiful flowers
In the garden of your life.

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Jesus Christ the Apple Tree

Jesus Christ the Apple TreeFrom Wikipedia, the free encyclopediaJump to: navigation, search




Jesus Christ the Apple Tree lyrics in a 1897 republication of 1797 printingJesus Christ the Apple Tree (also known as Apple Tree) is a poem written by an unknown New Englander in the 18th century. It has been set to music by a number of composers, including Jeremiah Ingalls (1764–1838) and Elizabeth Poston (1905–1987).



The first known publication of "Jesus Christ the Apple Tree" was in 1784 in Divine Hymns, or Spiritual Songs: for the use of Religious Assemblies and Private Christians compiled by Joshua Smith, a lay Baptist minister from New Hampshire. The hymn may have been based on an earlier anonymous poem first printed in London's Spiritual Magazine in August of 1761 crediting "R.H." as the writer.[1]



The song may be an allusion to both the apple tree in Songs 2:3 which has been interpreted as a metaphor representing Christ, and to Jesus' description of his life as a tree of life in Luke 13:18-19 and elsewhere in the New Testament including Revelation 22:1-2. Apple trees were commonly grown in early New England and there was an old English tradition of wassailing or wishing health to apple trees on Christmas eve.[2] The song is now performed by choirs around the world, especially during the Christmas season as a Christmas carol.[3]

                                 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

                                The Apple Tree ~ R.H. 1761



The tree of life my soul hath seen
Laden with fruit and always green
The trees of nature fruitless be
Compared with Christ the apple tree


His beauty doth all things excel
By faith I know but ne'er can tell
The glory which I now can see
In Jesus Christ the apple tree.


For happiness I long have sought
And pleasure dearly I have bought
I missed of all but now I see
'Tis found in Christ the apple tree.


I'm weary with my former toil
Here I will sit and rest a while
Under the shadow I will be
Of Jesus Christ the apple tree.


This fruit does make my soul to thrive
It keeps my dying faith alive
Which makes my soul in haste to be
With Jesus Christ the apple tree

Thursday, December 23, 2010

When you carry your Bible

                                           When you carry the Bible


When you carry the Bible, the devil has a headache, when you open it he
collapses, when he sees you reading it, he faints! So let's read the
bible, every time so that he keeps on fainting.(maybe one day he'll
have a stroke and never wake up)...  Amen


Sunday morning (attendance) shows how popular the church is; Sunday night shows how popular the preacher is; (Wednesday) prayer meeting shows how popular God is.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Company's Coming Pie

3 egg whites, room temperature

1/2 tsp. cream of tartar

1 c. sugar

16 soda crackers, crumbled

1 c. chopped pecans

4 oz. Cool Whip (half container)

Crushed Pineapple (drained)

Angel flake coconut (optional)



To make crust, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff, and gradually add sugar. When stiff, add cracker crumbs and nuts. Bake in pie plate for 25 minutes at 350 degrees or until lightly browned. Remove from oven, cool. When crust is cool; combine Cool Whip and pineapple. Spread on top of cooled crust and sprinkle with coconut flakes. Keep refrigerated.
 
NOTE: I usually double this recipe, It always turns out wonderful

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Low Fat Rice & Egg Pie (DOG Food Recipe)

This is an easy, low fat pie that can be cut up into portions and frozen. Excellent for smaller dogs.


Ingredients:
1 C Rice

2 C Mixed vegetable (frozen or canned)

1 C Cooked chicken or beef broth (fat removed)

3 Eggs

1/2 C Low fat milk

1 C Fat free natural yogurt

1/2 C Water with 1 chicken stock cube dissolved in it

Directions
Cook rice, put in medium sized casserole or pie dish, with the vegetables and chicken, mix well. In a bowl, mix the eggs, milk, yoghurt, and chicken stock, beat well.

Add this egg mixture to the rice mixture and fold in well.

Cook in oven at 180C for about 1/2 hour or until set.

When it is cool, it can be cut into wedges and frozen in portions suitable for your dog. This pie can be mixed with other dog food or served on its own for a healthy low fat diet.

Cauliflower Pizza

Ingredients:

1 cup cauliflower, grated
1/2 cup shredded light mozarella cheese
1 egg
1 tsp oregano
2 tsp basil
2 tsp parsley
1/2 tsp fennel
1 green pepper
1 onion
1 tomato
Garlic powder, to taste


Directions:

Chop pepper, onion and tomato. Set aside. Steam the cauliflower, let it cool and then grate it.

Combine grated cauliflower with the mozzarella and egg in a large bowl. Spray a circular or rectangular metal pan with cooking spray before spreading the dough evenly. Sprinkle the dough with fennel, oregano, parsley and basil. Add garlic powder.

Bake at 450° F for 12-15 minutes. Remove the dough from the oven and sprinkle chopped green pepper, onion and tomato, as well as the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Return the pizza to the oven. Turn the heat up to broil and leave in until the cheese has melted and the crust is crispy.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

12 Days of Christmas Explained

Is it fact or fiction?


There is one Christmas Carol that has always baffled me.
What in the world do leaping lords, French hens, swimming swans,
and especially the partridge who won't come out of the pear tree
have to do with Christmas?

This week, I found out.
From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were not permitted
to practice their faith openly. Someone during that era wrote this
carol as a catechism song for young Catholics. It has two levels of
meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to
members of their church. Each element in the carol has a code word
for a religious reality which the children could remember.


-The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.

-Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.

-Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.

-The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.

-The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books
of the Old Testament.

-The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.

-Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--
Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.

-The eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.

-Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace,
Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.

-The ten lords a-leaping were the ten commandments.

-The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.

-The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief
in the Apostles' Creed.


So there is your history for today. This knowledge was shared with me
and I found it interesting and enlightening and now I know how that
strange song became a Christmas Carol...so pass it on if you wish.'


Merry (Twelve Days of) Christmas Everyone!

92 Year Old Pastor was asked

While watching a little TV on Sunday instead of going to church, I watched a church
in Atlanta honoring one of its senior pastors who had been retired many years. He was
92 at that time and I wondered why the church even bothered to ask the old gentleman
to preach at that age.

After a warm welcome, introduction of this speaker, and as the applause quieted down,
he rose from his high back chair and walked slowly, with great effort and a sliding
gait to the podium. Without a note or written paper of any kind he placed both hands
on the pulpit to steady himself and then quietly and slowly he began to speak....

"When I was asked to come here today and talk to you, your pastor asked me to
tell you what was the greatest lesson ever learned in my 50-odd years of preaching. I
thought about it for a few days and boiled it down to just one thing that made the
most difference in my life and sustained me through all my trials.. The one thing
that I could always rely on when tears and heartbreak and pain and fear and sorrow
paralyzed me...the only thing that would comfort was this verse...

"Jesus loves me this I know.
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong,
we are weak but He is strong.....
Yes, Jesus loves me....
The Bible tells me so."

The old pastor stated, "I always noticed that it was the adults who chose the
children's hymn 'Jesus Loves Me' (for the children of course) during a hymn sing, and
it was the adults who sang the loudest because I could see they knew it the
best."


"Here for you now is a Senior version of Jesus Loves Me":

JESUS LOVES ME
Jesus loves me, this I know,
Though my hair is white as snow
Though my sight is growing dim,
Still He bids me trust in Him.
(CHORUS)

YES, JESUS LOVES ME.. YES, JESUS LOVES ME..
YES, JESUS LOVES ME, FOR THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO.

Though my steps are oh, so slow,
With my hand in His I'll go
On through life, let come what may,
He'll be there to lead the way.
(CHORUS)

When the nights are dark and long,
In my heart He puts a song..
Telling me in words so clear,
"Have no fear, for I am near."
(CHORUS)

When my work on earth is done,
And life's victories have been won.
He will take me home above,
Then I'll understand His love.
(CHORUS)


I love Jesus, does He know?
Have I ever told Him so?
Jesus loves to hear me say,
That I love Him every day.
(CHORUS)


                           God Blessings upon You All !!!

Friday, December 17, 2010

Always Look On The Inside

                                        ALWAYS LOOK ON THE INSIDE



I remember reading a story once about a man who was exploring some caves by the seashore. In one of the caves he found a canvas bag with a bunch of hardened clay balls. It was like someone had rolled up some clay and left them out in the sun to bake. They didn't look like much, but they intrigued the man so he took the bag out of the cave with him.

As he strolled along the beach, to pass the time, he would throw the clay balls one at a time out into the ocean as far as he could throw.

He thought little about it until he dropped one of the balls and it cracked open on a rock. Inside was a beautiful, precious stone. Excited, the man started breaking open the remaining clay balls. Each contained a similar treasure. He found thousands of dollars worth of jewels in the 20 or so clay balls he had left, then it struck him.

He had been on the beach a long time. He had thrown maybe 50 or 60 of the clay balls with their hidden treasure into the ocean waves. Instead of thousands of dollars in treasure, he could have had tens of thousands, but he just threw it all away.

You know sometimes, it's like that with people. We look at someone, maybe even ourselves, and we see the external clay vessel. It doesn't look like much from the outside. It isn't always beautiful or sparkling, so we discount it; we see that person as less important than someone more beautiful or stylish or well known or wealthy.

But we have not taken the time to find the treasure hidden inside that person. There is a treasure hidden in every one of us. We are wonderfully made. Not just our physical bodies, our spiritual selves, which are sometimes hidden from others by the “earthen vessel”.

But if you take the time to get to know that person, and if you ask the Spirit to show you that person the way He sees them, then the clay begins to peel away and the brilliant gem begins to shine forth.

The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when he discovers that someone else believes in him and is willing to trust him with his friendship.


-- Author Unknown

The NOOK

                                                       An E-Reader
                                                    {Barns & Noble}

Yesterday (Thursday 12/16/2010) Mother, Aunt Lois & I went to Branson to Best Buy to buy Mother a NOOK (Price ranges from $149. to  $199.) so she could download books into it and read them at home in the evenings and relax.  My Aunt Lois gave her the money to buy this for her Christmas Present.

When we got home I reminded her that I  knew nothing about them excupt from what little bit I caught from Oprah, Ellen & Dr Oz giving them away in their grand end of the year Christmas give aways, (which in laymans terms means duhhhhh I don't know what I'm doing here)..

So we opened the box and they might as well have had it written in Dutch because it meant nothing to me. I couldn't make heads or tails of it. So we plugged it in to charge the battery, which gave me 3 1/2 hrs to read and figure out what to do next.

I thought I regerstered it on line, Mom bought 3 E-books, Plus $25.- yearly membership which means she gets discounts on E-books she buys for the next year.
Turned on the cute little lite she bought for it (another $50.-) but still didn't understand how to connect the 2 pieces of this puzzle together.

After trying and trying to get the books downloaded with no sucess I finally went home to de-fuse my stress level and get a fresh start this very morning.

I walked into Mom's and picked up the lite and slid the NOOK into the small flap and it snapped into place, perfectly, (why didn't they tell you what to do or have a photo showing you...duhh)

Oh now I'm feeling pretty sure I can handle this monster called the NOOK, so I turned it on, no e-books, went to the bank and yes indeed they had taken the money out for them all, so on the phone I went to call them. I sat there for nearly 35 min. before a human actually answered, I still had to register the silly thing, I had regerestered Mom's buying power yesterday, today I had to do virtually the same thing only on the NOOK. Then turn it off and re-start it,

YEP there are Mom's books sitting right there on her new NOOK, she's as happy as a new baby with her new toy, it's as easy as 1,2,3 if they would only tell you in simple terms so even I can do it.

Set her up for Extra Large text and she's as happy as a bug in a rug

Would I reccomend a NOOK to someone else-- YES, -- if  E-Books are a thing you'd enjoy reading.

I also understand you can download music into your NOOK as well as an I-phone, but were not going there with this. Mom's using her's for reading only {God Willing}

Prayer For Snicker's & DOG TREAT RECIPE

In Your infinite wisdom, Lord God, when You created the Universe You blessed us with all living creatures. We especially thank You for giving us our Snicker-Do who has so wrapped himself around our loving hearts. Thank You Lord, In Jesus Name..AMEN


NOTE: [PET RECIPE TREAT]

Cheeseburger Muffins TREAT 
makes 24 mini muffins

1 cup of cooked ground beef
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup oast
1/2 cup wheat flour
1 small carrot [grated]
1 egg
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup shreeded low fat cheese
1 tsp dried oregano [optional]

1. measure your ingredients

2. Preheat oven 350 degrees, spray mini muffin pan with pam

3. mix all ingredients, excupt the shredded cheese

4. spoon batter in muffin tins, sprinkle with cheese

5. bake for 20 minutes

Store left over in refrigerator for 3 days or in freezer up to 3 months


*NOTE:
Original prayer from Michelle Perkins, then I added to it because if you know me at all I can't leave well enough alone...JMSQ

Grandma's Green Bean Casserole

The first of November I recieved a newsletter from the Arkansas Dept. of Agriculture filled with all kinds of great reading and eye openers, along with this wonderful recipe. I've made this both for our own Thanksgiving and our family loved it, so when our TOPS group was having our Christmas Party, I made it for that as well and everyone loved it, and requested the recipe. SOOOO I'm also sharing the recipe here on my BLOG for all my followers to enjoy.. I only wish I had taken a photo of it to share with you, it's beautiful


                             Grandma's Green Bean Casserole


2 TBS. butter

2 TBS. flour

1 cup sour cream (I use a bit more)

1 tsp. salt (I don't use salt)

1 tsp. sugar

1/2 of onion (diced)

3 cans of french style green beand (drained)

2 c. shredded cheese

1/2 c. crumbled ritz crackers


OVEN: 350 degrees

Melt butter in large fry pan over med heat, add flout and stir until smooth. Stir in sour cream, sugar, salt, onion and mix well, remove from heat, gentle add green bean and stir to cover with sour cream mixture.

Transfer the mixture to a 2 quart baking dish (spray with pam for easy clean up). Spread cheese over green beans, sprinkle with ritz cracker crumbs
Bake for 30 minutes until top is golden brown and cheese is bubbly

Makes 10 servings

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

The Purple Cow

                                             I've never seen a purple cow
                                             I never hope to see one

                                            But I can tell you anyhow
                                            I'd rather see than be one.


The Bridge

                                                  The Bridge Builder


An old man, going a lone highway,

Came, at the evening, cold and gray,

To a chasm, vast, and deep, and wide,

Through which was flowing a sullen tide.

The old man crossed in the twilight dim;

The sullen stream had no fears for him;

But he turned, when safe on the other side,

And built a bridge to span the tide.

"Old man," said a fellow pilgrim, near,

"You are wasting strength with building here;

Your journey will end with the ending day;

You never again must pass this way;

You have crossed the chasm, deep and wide-

Why build you a bridge at the eventide?"

The builder lifted his old gray head:

"Good friend, in the path I have come," he said,

"There followeth after me today,

A youth, whose feet must pass this way.

This chasm, that has been naught to me,

To that fair-haired youth may a pitfall be.

He, too, must cross in the twilight dim;

Good friend, I am building the bridge for him."


By: -Will Allen Dromgoole

Night Before Jesus Came

     'Twas The Night Before Jesus Came'  By: Unknown Author


'Twas the night before Jesus came and all through the house
Not a creature was praying, not one in the house.

Their Bibles were lain on the shelf without care
In hopes that Jesus would not come there.

The children were dressing to crawl into bed.
Not once ever kneeling or bowing a head.

And Mom in her rocker with baby on her lap
Was watching the Late Show while I took a nap.

When out of the East there arose such a clatter.
I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter

Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash!

When what to my wondering eyes should appear
But angels proclaiming that Jesus was here.

With a light like the sun sending forth a bright ray
I knew in a moment this must be THE DAY!

The light of His face made me cover my head
It was Jesus! returning just like He had said.

And though I possessed worldly wisdom and wealth,
I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself.

In the Book of Life which He held in His hand
Was written the name of every saved man.

He spoke not a word as He searched for my name;
When He said "it's not here" my head hung in shame.

The people whose names had been written with love
He gathered to take to His Father above.

With those who were ready He rose without a sound.
While all the rest were left standing around.

I fell to my knees, but it was too late;
I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate.

I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight;
Oh, if only I had been ready tonight.

In the words of this poem the meaning is clear;
The coming of Jesus is drawing near.

There's only one life and when comes the last call
We'll find that the Bible was true after all!

Monday, December 6, 2010

Dear Friends & Family

                                       {MERRY CHRISTMAS}
For there is born to "YOU" this day in the city of David a Saviour who is Christ the LORD  ... Luke 2:11

Dear Family & Friends,


December is here, burrrr, and brought with it the COLD, deep cold.

Ron had been busy putting up decoratations. He loves to decorate for Christmas. I have to admit I don't care for decoratating for the Holidays or anytime (it's just not my thing), BUT, Love it when it's finished. Ron always does such a wonderful job, and truthfully our home looks so nice when he turns on the outside lights. We bought a new tree this year, our old one was only about 12-15 yrs old and getting more sparce as the years wore on. Our new tree came with lights already on it, so how lucky is that, it's lovely and Ronnie's angel he made for us back in 1982 hangs proudly right there on top where she belongs. Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without our precious Angel. She has topped our tree every year sence Ronnie gave her to us.

We had such a wonderful Thanksgiving, Our Daughter & oldest Granddaughter Jesse came for dinner, and we took dinner next door to Mom & Aunt Lois as it was to cold for them to come out. We heard from both the boys for Thanksgiving so were very Blessed indeed, but we miss our Hugs from them.

Where ever you are, It is our Prayer you are taking in your winter sourrounds and remaining Thankful for all your Blessings.

                         Merry Christmas one & All


Blessings Ron & Jean

Friday, December 3, 2010

Thank You Lord

WHAT HAPPENS IN HEAVEN WHEN WE PRAY?

I dreamt that I went to Heaven and an angel was showing me around. We walked side-by-side inside a large workroom filled with angels. My angel guide stopped in front of the first section and said, ' This is the Receiving Section. Here, all petitions to God said in prayer are received.
I looked around in this area, and it was terribly busy with so many angels sorting out petitions written on voluminous paper sheets and scraps from people all over the world.
Then we moved on down a long corridor until we reached the second section.

The angel then said to me, "This is the Packaging and Delivery Section. Here, the graces and blessings the people asked for are processed and delivered to the living persons who asked for them." I noticed again how busy it was there. There were many angels working hard at that station, since so many blessings had been requested and were being packaged for delivery to Earth.

Finally at the farthest end of the long corridor we stopped at the door of a very small station. To my great surprise, only one angel was seated there, idly doing nothing. "This is the Acknowledgment Section, my angel friend quietly admitted to me. He seemed embarrassed." How is it that there is no work going on here? ' I asked.

"So sad," the angel sighed. "After people receive the blessings that they asked for, very few send back acknowledgments"

"How does one acknowledge God's blessings? " I asked..

"Simple," the angel answered. Just say, "Thank you, Lord. "

"What blessings should they acknowledge?" I asked.

"If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead and a place to sleep you are richer than 75% of this world. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish, you are among the top 8% of the world ' s wealthy. "

"And if you get this on your own computer, you are part of the 1% in the world who has that opportunity."

"If you woke up this morning with more health than illness .. You are more blessed than the many who will not even survive this day. "

"If you have never experienced the fear in battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation . You are ahead of 700 million people in the world.."

"If you can attend a church without the fear of harassment, arrest, torture or death you are envied by, and more blessed than, three billion people in the world."

"If your parents are still alive and still married ...you are very rare."

"If you can hold your head up and smile, you are not the norm, you're unique to all those in doubt and despair......."

Ok, what now? How can I start?

If you can read this message, you just received a double blessing in that someone was thinking of you as very special and you are more blessed than over two billion people in the world who cannot read at all.


ATTN: Acknowledge Dept.

"Thank you Lord, for giving me the ability to share this message and for giving me so many wonderful people with whom to share it. "

I thank God for everything, especially all my Wonderful Family & friends!

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Noah's Ark

Noah's Ark : Everything I need to know, I learned from Noah's Ark .



ONE: Don't miss the boat.

TWO: Remember that we are all in the same boat!

THREE: Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.

FOUR: Stay fit. When you're 60 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.

FIVE: Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.

SIX: Build your future on high ground.

SEVEN: For safety's sake, travel in pairs.

EIGHT: Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.

NINE: When you're stressed, float awhile.

TEN: Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.

ELEVEN: No matter the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.



Most people walk in and out of your life,
but FRIENDS leave footprints in your heart.

Burned Biscuits

When I was a kid, my mom liked to make breakfast food for dinner every now and then. And I remember one night in particular when she had made breakfast after a long, hard day at work.

On that evening so long ago, my mom placed a plate of eggs, sausage and extremely burned biscuits in front of my dad. I remember waiting to see if anyone noticed! Yet all my dad did was reach for his biscuit, smile at my mom and ask me how my day was at school. I don't remember what I told him that night, but I do remember watching him smear butter and jelly on that biscuit and eat every bite!

When I got up from the table that evening, I remember hearing my mom apologize to my dad for burning the biscuits. And I'll never forget what he said: "Honey, I love burned biscuits."Later that night, I went to kiss Daddy good night and I asked him if he really liked his biscuits burned. He wrapped me in his arms and said, "Your Momma put in a hard day at work today and she's real tired. And besides - a little burnt biscuit never hurt anyone!"

Life is full of imperfect things.....and imperfect people. I'm not the best at hardly anything, and I forget birthdays and anniversaries just like everyone else. But what I've learned over the years is that learning to accept each others faults - and choosing to celebrate each others differences - is one of the most important keys to creating a healthy, growing, and lasting relationship.

And that's my prayer for you today. That you will learn to take the good, the bad, and the ugly parts of your life and lay them at the feet of God. Because in the end, He's the only One who will be able to give you a relationship where a burnt biscuit isn't a deal-breaker!We could extend this to any relationship. In fact, understanding is the base of any relationship, be it a husband-wife or parent-child or friendship!"Don't put the key to your happiness in someone else's pocket - keep it in your own."God Bless You..... Now, and Always.... So Please pass me a biscuit, and yes, the burnt one will do just fine.!.!.!.!

Shoe Box

A man and woman had been married for more than 60 years. They had shared
everything. They had talked about everything.

They had kept no secrets from each other except that the little old

woman had a shoe box in the top of her closet that she had cautioned

her husband never to open or ask her about. For all of these years,

he had never thought about the box, but one day the little old woman got

very sick and the doctor said she would not recover.

In trying to sort out their affairs, the little old man took down the shoe box and took it to his wife's bedside.

She agreed that it was time that he should know what was in the box.

When he opened it, he found two crocheted dolls and a stack of money totaling $95,000.

He asked her about the contents. "When we were to be married," she

said, "my grandmother told me the secret of a happy marriage was to

never argue. She told me that if I ever got angry with you, I should

just keep quiet and crochet a doll."

The little old man was so moved; he had to fight back tears. Only two

precious dolls were in the box. She had only been angry with him two

times in all those years of living and loving. He almost burst with happiness.

"Honey," he said, "that explains the dolls, but what about all of this money?

Where did it come from?"

"Oh," she said, "that's the money I made from selling the dolls."





Women will love this..

A Prayer.......

Dear Lord, I pray for Wisdom to understand my man;

Love to forgive him;

And Patience for his moods;

Because Lord, if I pray for Strength,

I'll beat him to death.

And I don't know how to crochet.
 
 
 
This is not one of my saying to share, but thought it was great and a reminder to keep our fingers busy and to always PRAY for our Spouces... Huggles

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie


1 Grahm Cracker Crust


2 pkg. (8-oz.) cream cheese [softened]

2 eggs

3/4 c. sugar

2 TBS. vanilla

1 c. Prepared Pumpkin *Note


*NOTE - Prepare pumpkin according to can as if for making a pie . pour 1 cup into measuring cup and set aside ..YOU may NOT use all of pumpkin, you may use only a little, so save the rest of your pumpkin to add left overs to before freezing or making your pumpkin pie or breads

Heat oven to 350.

Beat cream cheese slightly, add eggs, sugar, vanilla. Beat until light & fluffy. Pour into
crust.pour / sprinkle pumpkin on top of cream cheese, use a kniff to swirl around some.

Bake until firm, about 25 min.

Optional: Cheese Topping:
Mix 1 c. dairy sour cream, 2 TBS. sugar, & 2 teaspoons of vanilla. Mix and spread on top of hot pie "CAREFULLY" let all cool. Refrigerate at least 8 hrs.

Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie

1 Baked Pie Crust
1 c. sugar
1 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese
1 (15-oz) can crushed pineapple, DRAINED *NOTE at bottom
1 (8-oz.) ctn. cool whip

Cream sugar with cream cheese. Add drained pineapple. Fold in cool whip until well blended. Place in pie crust, refrigerate and serve cold.

*NOTE: I drain pineapple and put it in pie shell first, then cream all the other and pour on top of pineapple. Refrigerate and serve cold.

Monday, November 22, 2010

A Letter to women from God

When I created the heavens and the earth, I spoke them into being.


When I created man, I formed him and breathed life into his nostrils.

But you woman, I fashioned after I breathed the breath of life into man because your nostrils are too delicate.

I allowed a deep sleep to come over him so I could patiently and perfectly fashion you.

Man was put to sleep so that he could not interfere with the creativity.

From one bone, I fashioned you.

I chose the bone that protects man's life. I chose the rib, which portects his heart and lungs and supports him, as you are meant to do.

Around this one bone, I shaped you, and I modeled you.

I created you perfectly and beautifully.

Your characteristics are as the rib, strong yet delicate and fragile

You provide protection for the most delicate organ in man, his heart.

His heart is the center, of his being; his lungs hold the breath of life. His rib cage will allow itself to be broken before it will allow damage to the heart. Support man as the rib cage supports the body.

You were not taken from his feet, to be under him, nor were you taken from his head to be above him. you were taken form his side, to stand bside him and be held close to his side. You are my perfect angel, and you are my beautiful little girl.

You have grown to be a splendid woman of excellence and my eyes fill when I see the virtues in your heart..

Your eyes - Don't change them

Your Lips - how lovely when they part in prayer

Your nose - so perfect in form

your hands so gentle to touch

I've caressed your face in your deepest sleep. I've held your heart close to mine. Of all the lives and breathes you are most like me.

Adam walked with me in the cool of the day, yet he was lonely.

He could not see me or touch me

He could only feel me.

So everything I wanted Adam to share and experience with me, I fashioned in you. My holiness, my strength, my purity, my love, my protection and support.

You are special because you are an extension of me. Man represents my image, woman my emotions. Together you represent the totality of God

So man treat woman well, love her, respect her, for she is fragile

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Marriage... A Must Read!!!

When I got home that night as my wife served dinner, I held her hand and said, I've got something to tell you. She sat down and ate quietly. Again I observed the hurt in her eyes.

Suddenly I didn't know how to open my mouth. But I had to let her know what I was thinking. I want a divorce. I raised the topic calmly.

She didn't seem to be annoyed by my words, instead she asked me softly, why?

I avoided her question. This made her angry. She threw away the chopsticks and shouted at me, you are not a man! That night, we didn't talk to each other. She was weeping. I knew she wanted to find out what had happened to our marriage. But I could hardly give her a satisfactory answer; she had lost my heart to Jane. I didn't love her anymore. I just pitied her!

With a deep sense of guilt, I drafted a divorce agreement which stated that she could own our house, our car, and 30% stake of my company.

She glanced at it and then tore it into pieces. The woman who had spent ten years of her life with me had become a stranger. I felt sorry for her wasted time, resources and energy but I could not take back what I had said for I loved Jane so dearly. Finally she cried loudly in front of me, which was what I had expected to see. To me her cry was actually a kind of release. The idea of divorce which had obsessed me for several weeks seemed to be firmer and clearer now.

The next day, I came back home very late and found her writing something at the table. I didn't have supper but went straight to sleep and fell asleep very fast because I was tired after an eventful day with Jane.

When I woke up, she was still there at the table writing. I just did not care so I turned over and was asleep again.

In the morning she presented her divorce conditions: she didn't want anything from me, but needed a month's notice before the divorce. She requested that in that one month we both struggle to live as normal a life as possible. Her reasons were simple: our son had his exams in a month's time and she didn't want to disrupt him with our broken marriage.

This was agreeable to me. But she had something more, she asked me to recall how I had carried her into out bridal room on our wedding day.

She requested that every day for the month's duration I carry her out of our bedroom to the front door ever morning. I thought she was going crazy. Just to make our last days together bearable I accepted her odd request.

I told Jane about my wife's divorce conditions. . She laughed loudly and thought it was absurd. No matter what tricks she applies, she has to face the divorce, she said scornfully.

My wife and I hadn't had any body contact since my divorce intention was explicitly expressed. So when I carried her out on the first day, we both appeared clumsy. Our son clapped behind us, daddy is holding mommy in his arms. His words brought me a sense of pain. From the bedroom to the sitting room, then to the door, I walked over ten meters with her in my arms. She closed her eyes and said softly; don't tell our son about the divorce. I nodded, feeling somewhat upset. I put her down outside
the door. She went to wait for the bus to work. I drove alone to the office.

On the second day, both of us acted much more easily. She leaned on my chest. I could smell the fragrance of her blouse. I realized that I hadn't looked at this woman carefully for a long time. I realized she was not young any more. There were fine wrinkles on her face, her hair was graying! Our marriage had taken its toll on her. For a minute I wondered what I had done to her.

On the fourth day, when I lifted her up, I felt a sense of intimacy returning. This was the woman who had given ten years of her life to me.

On the fifth and sixth day, I realized that our sense of intimacy was growing again. I didn't tell Jane about this. It became easier to carry her as the month slipped by. Perhaps the everyday workout made me stronger.

She was choosing what to wear one morning. She tried on quite a few dresses but could not find a suitable one. Then she sighed, all my dresses have grown bigger. I suddenly realized that she had grown so thin, that was the reason why I could carry her more easily.
Suddenly it hit me... she had buried so much pain and bitterness in her heart. Subconsciously I reached out and touched her head.

Our son came in at the moment and said, Dad, it's time to carry mom out. To him, seeing his father carrying his mother out had become an essential part of his life. My wife gestured to our son to come closer and hugged him tightly. I turned my face away because I was afraid I might change my mind at this last minute. I then held her in my arms, walking from the bedroom, through the sitting room, to the hallway. Her hand surrounded my neck softly and naturally. I held her body tightly; it was just like our wedding day.

But her much lighter weight made me sad. On the last day, when I held her in my arms I could hardly move a step. Our son had gone to school. I held her tightly and said, I hadn't noticed that our life lacked intimacy.

I drove to office.... jumped out of the car swiftly without locking the door. I was afraid any delay would make me change my mind...I walked upstairs. Jane opened the door and I said to her, Sorry, Jane, I do not want the divorce anymore.

She looked at me, astonished, and then touched my forehead. Do you have a fever? She said. I moved her hand off my head. Sorry, Jane, I said, I won't divorce. My marriage life was boring probably because she and I didn't value the details of our lives, not because we didn't love each other anymore. Now I realize that since I carried her into my home on our wedding day I am supposed to hold her until death do us apart.

Jane seemed to suddenly wake up. She gave me a loud slap and then slammed the door and burst into tears. I walked downstairs and drove away.

At the floral shop on the way, I ordered a bouquet of flowers for my wife. The salesgirl asked me what to write on the card. I smiled and wrote, I'll carry you out every morning until death do us apart.

That evening I arrived home, flowers in my hands, a smile on my face, I run up stairs, only to find my wife in the bed - dead.

My wife had been fighting CANCER for months and I was so busy with Jane to even notice. She knew that she would die soon and she wanted to save me from the whatever negative reaction from our son, in case we push thru with the divorce.-- At least, in the eyes of our son--- I'm a loving husband....

The small details of your lives are what really matter in a relationship. It is not the mansion, the car, property, the money in the bank. These create an environment conducive for happiness but cannot give happiness in themselves. So find time to be your spouse's friend and do those little things for each other that build intimacy. Do have a real happy marriage!

If you don't share this, nothing will happen to you.

If you do, you just might save a marriage.

Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.

A CHRIST-CENTERED MARRIAGE IS A MARRIAGE THAT IS SURE TO LAST A LIFETIME.

So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Matthew 19:6

What is a Godly Mother

A Godly Mother A. lways reads her Bible, for daily nourishment.

A Godly Mother B. elieves God’s promises without fear.

A Godly Mother C. overs each child with diligent prayer.

A Godly Mother D. isciplines her little ones scripturally.

A Godly Mother E. njoys her family to the uttermost.

A Godly Mother F. orgives her children when they fail repeatedly.

A Godly Mother G. oes to church out of need and tithes faithfully.

A Godly Mother H. olds her children accountable & truthful.

A Godly Mother I. sn’t afraid to ask forgiveness of her children.

A Godly Mother J. ust knows when something’s up with her child.

A Godly Mother K. nows she’s deeply loved by her Lord Jesus.

A Godly Mother L. oves & respects her husband exceedingly.

A Godly Mother M. odels Christlikeness to her family.

A Godly Mother N. ever calls her children bad names.

A Godly Mother O. vercomes struggles by calling on Jesus’ name.

A Godly Mother P. laces her children into the Father’s hands.

A Godly Mother Q. uietly smiles with satisfaction and delight.

A Godly Mother R. efuses to worry and fret over her children.

A Godly Mother S. ets boundaries for her children’s behavior.

A Godly Mother T. ries to listen to her children intently.

A Godly Mother U. nderstands her limitations and need for rest.

A Godly Mother V. ery often hugs & tenderly touches each child.

A Godly Mother W. orks and labors without complaint.

A Godly Mother X. pects her rewards from God, not others.

A Godly Mother Y. earns to help her children succeed in life.

A Godly Mother Z. ealously sees to her family’s health & welfare.

                   by Dr. Dan Cheatham

Genesis 47:13-27

            ALL I CAN SAY ABOUT THIS IS WOW!!!!!

RECENT VIRGINIA CHURCH SERVICE-STIMULUS SERMON

Genesis 47:13-27

I would love to give the Pastor of this predominantly black church in Virginia a hug and a high five. This guy is obviously a leader.

Perhaps we should each decide who our real leader is.....It is amazing to see that very little has changed in 4,000 years.


                      ------------------------------------------------

Good morning, brothers and sisters; it's always a delight to see the pews crowded on Sunday morning, and so eager to get into God's Word. Turn with me in your Bibles, if you will to the 47th chapter of Genesis, we'll begin our reading at verse 13, and go through verse 27.


Brother Ray, would you stand and read that great passage for us? ....(reading)...


Thank you for that fine reading, Brother Ray... So we see that economic hard times fell upon Egypt , and the people turned to the government of Pharaoh to deal with this for them. And Pharaoh nationalized the grain harvest, and placed the grain in great storehouses that he had built. So the people brought their money to Pharaoh, like a great tax increase, and gave it all to him willingly in return for grain. And this went on until their money ran out, and they were hungry again.


So when they went to Pharaoh after that, they brought their livestock -their cattle, their horses, their sheep, and their donkey - to barter for grain, and verse 17 says that only took them through the end of that year..


But the famine wasn't over, was it? So the next year, the people came before Pharaoh and admitted they had nothing left, except their land and their own lives. "There is nothing left in the sight of my lord but our bodies and our land. Why should we die before your eyes, both we and our land? Buy us and our land for food, and we with our land will be servants to Pharaoh.." So they surrendered their homes, their land, and their real estate to Pharaoh's government, and then sold themselves into slavery to him, in return for grain.


What can we learn from this, brothers and sisters?


That turning to the government instead of to God to be our provider in hard times only leads to slavery? Yes.. That the only reason government wants to be our provider is to also become our master?


Yes.


But look how that passage ends, brothers and sisters! Thus Israel settled in the land of Egypt , in the land of Goshen . And they gained possessions in it, and were fruitful and multiplied greatly." God provided for His people, just as He always has! They didn't end up giving all their possessions to government, no, it says they gained possessions! But I also tell you a great truth today, and an ominous one.


We see the same thing happening today - the government today wants to "share the wealth "once again, to take it from us and redistribute it back to us. It wants to take control of healthcare, just as it has taken control of education, and ration it back to us, and when government rations it, then government decides who gets it, and how much, andwhat kind. And if we go along with it, and do it willingly, then we will wind up no differently than the people of Egypt did four thousand years ago - as slaves to the government, and as slaves to our leaders.


What Mr. Obama's government is doing now is no different from what Pharaoh's government did then, and it will end the same. And a lot of people like to call Mr.Obama a "Messiah," don't they? Is he a Messiah? A savior? Didn't the Egyptians say, after Pharaoh made them his slaves, "You have saved our lives; may it please my lord, we will be servants to Pharaoh"?


Well, I tell you this - I know the Messiah; the Messiah is a friend of mine; and Mr. Obama is no Messiah! No, brothers and sisters, if Mr. Obama is a character from the Bible, then he is Pharaoh. Bow with me in prayer, if you will...


Lord, You alone are worthy to be served, and we rely on You, and You alone. We confess that the government is not our deliverer, and never rightly will be. We read in the eighth chapter of 1 Samuel, when Samuel warned the people of what a ruler would do, where it says "And in that day you will cry out because of your king, whom you have chosen for yourselves, but the LORD will not answer you in that day."


And Lord, we acknowledge that day has come. We cry out to you because of the ruler that we have chosen for ourselves as a nation. Lord, we pray for this nation. We pray for revival, and we pray for deliverance from those who would be our masters. Give us hearts to seek You and hands to serve You, and protect Your people from the atrocities of Pharaoh's government.


                            In God We Trust...

****************************************************************

You may consider sharing this with others.

If you don't agree .... just delete. Have a nice day.

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Shoes In Church - Shoe Man

I showered and shaved............. I adjusted my tie.

I got there and sat............. In a pew just in time.

Bowing my head in prayer......... As I closed my eyes.

I saw the shoe of the man next to me..... Touching my own. I sighed.


With plenty of room on either side...... I thought, "Why must our soles touch?"

It bothered me, his shoe touching mine... But it didn't bother him much.

A prayer began: "Our Father"............. I thought, "This man with the shoes, has no pride.

They're dusty, worn, and scratched. Even worse, there are holes on the side!"

"Thank You for blessings," the prayer went on.

The shoe man said............... A quiet "Amen."


I tried to focus on the prayer....... But my thoughts were on his shoes again.

Aren't we supposed to look our best. When walking through that door?

"Well, this certainly isn't it," I thought, Glancing toward the floor.


Then the prayer was ended........... And the songs of praise began.

The shoe man was certainly loud...... Sounding proud as he sang.

His voice lifted the rafters......... His hands were raised high.

The Lord could surely hear. The shoe man's voice from the sky.


It was time for the offering....... And what I threw in was steep.

I watched as the shoe man reached.... Into his pockets so deep.

I saw what was pulled out.......... What the shoe man put in.

Then I heard a soft "clink" . As when silver hits tin.


The sermon really bored me......... To tears, and that's no lie.

It was the same for the shoe man... For tears fell from his eyes.

At the end of the service...... As is the custom here.

We must greet new visitors, And show them all good cheer.

But I felt moved somehow............. And wanted to meet the shoe man.

So after the closing prayer....... I reached over and shook his hand.

He was old and his skin was dark.... And his hair was truly a mess.

But I thanked him for coming......... For being our guest.

He said, "My names' Charlie.......... I'm glad to meet you, my friend."


There were tears in his eyes....... But he had a large, wide grin.

"Let me explain," he said......... Wiping tears from his eyes.

"I've been coming here for months.... And you're the first to say 'Hi.'"

"I know that my appearance........."Is not like all the rest.

"But I really do try................."To always look my best."

"I always clean and polish my shoes.."Before my very long walk.

"But by the time I get here........."They're dirty and dusty, like chalk."


My heart filled with pain........... And I swallowed to hide my tears.

As he continued to apologize......... For daring to sit so near

He said, "When I get here..........."I know I must look a sight.

"But I thought if I could touch you.."Then maybe our souls might unite."


I was silent for a moment........... Knowing whatever was said

Would pale in comparison... I spoke from my heart, not my head.

"Oh, you've touched me," I said......"And taught me, in part;

"That the best of any man............"Is what is found in his heart."


The rest, I thought,................ This shoe man will never know.

Like just how thankful I really am... That his dirty old shoe touched my soul

You are special to me and you have made a difference in my life.

I respect you, and truly cherish you.


Send this to your friends, No matter how often you talk,

Or how close you are, And send it to the person who sent it to you.

Let old friends know you haven't forgotten them, and tell new friends you never will.

Remember, everyone needs a friend.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Fruit Of The Spirit Baby Hat (Crochet)

                                  Fruit of the spirit  Galatians 5:22-23 


G Hook & F Hook

3 colors needed:

Brown for stem color

Dark Green for Leaves


Red - Apple - Goodness

Blue - Blue Berry - Peace

Yellow - Lemon - Joy

Orange - Orange - Kindness

Pink - Cranberries - Gentleness

Green - Pear - Self Control

Purple - Plum's -Faithfullness

White - cauldiflower - Purity

Cream - onions- Love

Brown - Kiwi - Patience


                                     Basic Hat Pattern:


Hat: Beginning at top of hat with BROWN, ch 4, sl st in first ch to form ring.

Rnd 1: Ch 2, work 11 dc in ring, join with a sl st in first dc. 12 sts.


CHANGE COLORS

Rnd 2: Ch 2, 1 dc in same st, 2 dc in each st around, join with a sl st in first dc. 24 sts.


Rnd 3: Ch 2 *2dc in next st, dc in next st, repeat from * around ending with 2dc in last st, join with a sl st in first dc. 36 sts.


Rnd 4: Ch 2, *dc in next st 2 sts, 2dc in next st, repeat from * around, join with a sl st in first dc. 48 sts.


NOTE: When finishing with Rib Edging #2 end these instructions after row 9 and continue at bottom with edging #2

Rnds 5 - 11: Ch 2, dc in each st around, join with a sl st in first dc. 52 sts.

DO NOT FASTEN OFF

Row 12
#1 Edging: (Ch 1 and sc) in each st around, join with a sl st in first sc. Fasten off. Weave in ends of yarn. Turn up bottom of hat for brim.


Row 10
#2 Rib Edging: Row 10: 1 FPHDC, in first st, 1 BPHDC in next st around. Join & finish off

FPHDC:
Yo, insert hook from front to back and to front again around the vertical post (upright part) of next st, yo and draw yarn through, yo and complete hdc.

BPHDC:
Yo, reaching over top of piece and working on opposite side (right side) of work, insert hook from right to left around vertical post of next st, yo and draw yarn through, yo and complete hdc.


F Hook: Make 2
Leaf: Ch 13, sc in sceond ch from hook, (hdc in next ch, dc in next 3 ch's, tr in next 2 chs, dc in next 3 chs, hdc in next ch), 3 sc in last ch. Working on opposite side of chs; repeat between (), sc in last ch. Fasten off. Sew leafs on top of hat.


I sew leafs completly down sometimes, but usually I sew the ends of leafs on to the brown stem and let the front of leaf remain free.

Monday, November 8, 2010

RIP Murphy - April 23, 1998 - Nov. 8, 2010

                                           April 23, 1998 - Nov. 8, 2010

Today I'm Thankful For: The "strength" to put our Precious Murphy to sleep.. One of the hardest things in the world for me to do, yet he "knew"  as I "knew" and was ready to sleep.


Murphy has been a great friend to us, to everyone who met him, loved him or just came by for a visit. He so loved people and being the center of attention.

I'll look for you at the Rainbow Bridge, along with Fatz, Foxy, Peaches, where we all can run together again and enjoy eachothers company..

                   RIP Our Special Friend, You will be Missed by all!!!!

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Fruit Of The Spirit Soup

Fruit Of The Spirit Soup  (Galatians 5:22,23)


Pearl Barley - Love

Split Pas - Joy

Black Beans - Peace

Red Beans - Patience

Pinto Beans - Kindness

Navy Beans - Goodness

Lenils - Gentleness

Black-Eye-Peas - Self-Control


Gabanzo's - Holy Spirit

Smoked susage or diced ham



Directions:
Rinse beans, Put in Crock-Pot & cover with water. "About 3/4 full of
liquid & beans total", - Add meat, turn on low, cook 8 to 10 hours.
(10 to 12 hrs if using Gabanzo's beans) I use liqud smoke, & onions.
i also serve it with fresh bread.


NOTE: I buy 1 pound of each of these beans, open them and put into a
large container, then I mix the completly so there always ready when
I am, I measure out 2 cups and thats enough to feed 4 to 6 folks.


NOTE: This also makes a lovely gift for someone who might be moving
or down in the dumps, if you layer each kind of bean in a jar, then
attach this recipe, they'll always know how much you love them..(smile)



                    "MAY YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT HUNGER IS"

Saturday, November 6, 2010

5 Crock-Pot Chicken Recipes

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings
This is one of my all time favorite comfort foods. This version of crock pot chicken and dumplings is a semi-homemade, quick and easy version. This is how I do it: In a 3 - 5 quart crock pot layer 4 chicken breasts. As evenly as you can, top it with 2 Tablespoons of cubed butter. In a medium sized mixing bowl stir together 2 cans of cream of chicken soup, a small can of chicken broth, 2 teaspoons of ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon of salt and a teaspoon of poultry seasoning. Pour over top of chicken and butter and cook on low for 5 - 6 hours or on high for 3 - 4 hours. Take a can of biscuits and quarter each biscuit. Make sure crock pot is on high and completely submerge each biscuit quarter in liquid, adding them individually. Cook for additonal 30 minutes or until "dumplings" are no longer doughy in the center.


Crock Pot Chicken Vindaloo
This is a great crock pot chicken indian dish. The spices are remarkable in this vindaloo. Here is how it's done: In a large mixing bowl stir together 3 tablespoons of white wine vinegar, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 1/2 tablespoons of fresh ground ginger, 3/4 tablespoon of curry powder, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1/4 teaspoon each of cardamom, ground cloves and cayenne, 1 tablespoon of mustard seed, 2 tablespoons of olive oil and one cup of tomato sauce. In the meantime cut 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves into chunks and place in a 3 quart crock pot. Pour the mixture over chicken. Add 1 small onion, 1 cinnamon stick and 2 tablespoons of dried parsley. Cook on low for 5 - 6 hours or on high for 3 - 4 hours. Remove cinnamon stick before serving. It's GREAT served over jasmine rice.

Crock Pot Balsamic Chicken
We have crock pot balsamic chicken in place of traditional spaghetti or chicken cacciatore. It is so filling, yet light. The best way to serve it is over angel hair pasta. Here is how it's done: In a 2 1/2 - 3 quart crock pot place 1 pound of chicken breast tenderloins, 1 small onion that has been thinly sliced, 1 - 8 ounce package of mushrooms that have been sliced, 2 - 14.5 ounce cans of crushed tomatoes, 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon each of dried basil, oregano and rosemare, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme and salt and pepper to taste. Cook on high for 5 - 6 hours or on low for 2 1/2 - 3 hours. Once cooked, mix all ingredients to incorporate and serve over angel haired pasta.


Crock Pot Roasted Chicken and Baked Potatoes
This crock pot roasted chicken and baked potatoes is the ultimate in one pot wonders. It is more of a technique than a recipe. Just wash however many potatoes you need to feed your family, prick them with a fork and wrap in aluminum foil. Place them in the bottom of your crock pot (the size will depend on how many potatoes and chicken breasts your making). Rub your bone in chicken breasts with your favorite rub (I've used poultry seasoning, barbecue rub, lemon pepper... all are good). Balance the chicken breasts on top of the potatoes and cook on high for 3 1/2 - 4 hours or on low for 7 - 8 hours. Make a salad or steam some broccoli and dinner is done.


Crock Pot Rotisserie Chicken
Instead of buying those wonderful rotisserie chickens at the grocery store I have been making them in the crock pot. Jeanette shared this recipe with me and I've been making it ever since. It's so easy to do and a rotisserie chicken is so versatile. You can make quesadillas, chicken salad, chicken casserole.... the possibilities are endless if you have leftover rotisserie chicken (which we always do). Here is how I do it: Line a 6 - 7 quart crock pot with a Reynold's Slow Cooker Liner. Make 5 or 6 aluminum foil balls to place in the bottom of the crock pot. Rinse a 4 - 5 pound baking hen and pat dry. Season the inside of the cavity and the outside of the baking hen with seasoned salt and ground black pepper. Place on top of the foil balls and cook on high for 6 hours. Make sure to check the chicken for doneness with a meat thermometer or make sure all the juices are running clear.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Potato Chip Cookies

Potato Chip Cookies


 1 cup margarine

 1 cup crushed potato chips

 1/2 cup sugar

 2 cup flour

 1 tsp. vanilla


 Mix margarine, sugar and vanilla together. Add potato

 chips and stir in flour. Form small balls from mixture.

 Place on ungreased cookie sheet.Press ball flat with the

 bottom of glass dipped in sugar.

 Bake at 350 for 16-18 minutes.

Monday, November 1, 2010

October's E-Letter & Ramblings


Well today turned Nov. 1, 2010, where oh where has time gone???

The weather has cooled down quite alot. I open the windows durning the day to let the fresh air in, but find I close them about 5 or so when the evening chill starts to attack my toes. Once my toes get cold, I'm done for..smile
I even dug out our winter blanket & flanel sheets to keep us snug as a bug in our toasty bed. Such a pleasure to look forward to after a long day working, tending to chores & such to go crawl into a toasty bed with my Beloved.

Ron and I had a lovely Mini vacation in OK again in Oct. I got alot of knitting down, a few patterns came to mind, jotted them down so I wouldn't forget them. Ron always enjoyes his mini vacations, it relaxes him. He works so hard and just needs some down time.

Funny thing happened just before Ron & I left for OK. I recieved a birthday card I mailed our Daughter-in-Love back in May that she never recieved. When Ron first handed it to me I said I haven't sent anything to Marla for months, YET, it was post marked Oct. when it was found out in Calif. and the wrong address???? 1 + 1 is not adding up to 2 here. I got a little up-set because I didn't want Marla to think I forgot her Birthday. (The kids were here in May and I mailed it out right after they left for Calif) Well I contacted her and got the correct address and told her what had happened, so at least she knows I didn't forget her... I Love her so Dearly and am so THANKFUL Lance found her and married her. They both are so BLESSEd & good for eachother.

10/29/2010 
After 10 months without wearing my headcovering, I'm wearing it again. I wore it for 2 years, then took it off and decided it wasn't what I wanted or needed at this time in my life... BOY was I WRONG. After much PRAYER, my headcovering is back on to STAY, and I've even ordered 2 new ones from Joyce's coverings and am looking forward to them arriving. And YES, Jumpers, Skirts etc are back to stay as well. (Modest dressing)
Went out today and boy oh boy what a difference, the feeling of walking in God's Blessings, curtise people in Wal-Mart- what a difference..  Thank You Lord for directing my steps and guiding me back inside Your Fold..

Ron spendt the  weekend diggin up his Dalia's bulbs to store away until Spring when he'll re-plant them. This is such a good thing becuse they are such a treasure. The BIG PURPLE ones were his Grandfather's, so they mean alot to ron.

!0/31/2010
Last evening Mom & I had to take my Aunt to the Hospital. Se was blacking out and in a whir spin. They ran all kinds of test on her and found a sinus infection. We got home about 10pm and everyone settled in for a good nights rest

I Pray everyone reading this has a BLESSED NOVEMBER.. Make a list of all the things your THANKFUL for and spend some time looking back on it being thankful all over again

Have a BLessed Thanksgiving one & all... Blessings Jeanarie

Puff The Magic Dragon

                                  Peter, Paul & Mary : Puff The Magic Dragon Lyrics


Puff, the magic dragon lived
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called honah lee,
Little jackie paper loved that rascal puff,
And brought him strings and sealing wax and other fancy stuff. oh

Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called honah lee,
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called honah lee.

Together they would travel on a boat with billowed sail
Jackie kept a lookout perched on puffs gigantic tail,
Noble kings and princes would bow wheneer they came,
Pirate ships would lower their flag when puff roared out his name. oh!

Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called honah lee,
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called honah lee.

A dragon lives forever but not so little boys
Painted wings and giant rings make way for other toys.
One grey night it happened, jackie paper came no more
And puff that mighty dragon, he ceased his fearless roar.




His head was bent in sorrow, green scales fell like rain,
Puff no longer went to play along the cherry lane.
Without his life-long friend, puff could not be brave,
So puff that mighty dragon sadly slipped into his cave. oh!

Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called honah lee,
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called honah lee.

Cherokee Dishcloth (Knitted)

                                 Cherokee Dishcloth Measures 8 1/2" X 9"


I came up with this dishcloth while knitting on the couch Silom Springs OK. So I jotted down the numbers came home and whipped it up

10 Needles

CO 36

Rows 1-3: Knit across

Row 4: Knit 2, YO, Knit 2 together, Knit 9 sts, YO, Knit 2 Together, Knit to end

Row 5: Repeat row 4 until cloth measures 8 1/2 " from beginning to needle

Rows 6-9: Knit across, cast off

NOTE: Yo can make this cloth 7" or 8" high, I like to make mine a little bigger because I give them away as gifts and never know for sure who's going to recieve this

Friday, October 29, 2010

Simple Knitted Dishcloth

                                    Simply Dish-Cloth Measures 9 1/2" X 7"


10 1/2 needles

CO 36

Rows 1-3: Knit across

Row 4: Knit 2, YO, Knit 2 Together, knit across

Repeat Row 4 until cloth measures from beggining to needles 6 3/4

Row 5-7: Knit Across Cast Off


NOTE:
This dishcloth can be made bigger, but I thought it looked pretty big as is, KNOWING that all knitted dishcloths stretch when wet.
ALSO, I use larger needles because the bigger the holes the quicker they dry so you won't have a moldy or meldew smell

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Color's of Roses & their Meaning


Red Rose
Love & affection, Romantic & Abiding Love, True Love, I Love You, Desire, Courage & Passion, Congratulations, Job Well Done, Respect & Appreciation, Honest Beauty, Courage & Passion, Bliss to Marriage

Dark Red Rose
Deep passion, Readiness for a commitment, Unconscious beauty, Dying love


Light Rose
Gentleness, Joy & Grace, Admiration, Sympathy & Gentleness, Harmony & Warmth


Pink Rose
Grace & Elegance, Admiration for beauty and refinement, Sweetness


Bright Pink
Appreciation & Recognition, "Thank You", Gratitude, Admiration


Lavender Rose
Love/Enchantment at first sight, Regal majesty and splendor, Wonder & Impossibility


Purple Rose
Enchantment & Magnetism, Opulence & Majesty


Dark Purple Rose
Enchantment & Magnetism, Opulence & Majesty


Blue Rose
Mystery & Ambiguity, The impossible or The unattainable, "You are extraordinarily wonderful", Mysterious beginnings of new things


Turquoise Rose
Calm, Fertility, Abundance and Bounty, Constant rejuvenation of spirit, Self-respect and Well being


White Rose
Purity & Innocence, Reverence & Humility, Heavenly & Honor, Everlasting love, Marriages and New Beginnings, I am worthy of you, Beauty & Youthfulness, Remembrance


Yellow Rose
Friendship and "I care", Unbridled joy, Promise of a new beginning, Gladness, Delight, Warmth, Good Luck, Welcome Back, Remember Me, Dying Love


Gold Rose
Friendship and "I care", Unbridled joy, Promise of a new beginning, Gladness, Delight, Warmth, Good Luck, Welcome Back, Remember Me, Dying Love


Peach Rose
Modesty, Closing of a new deal, Great cheer, Sincerity & Genuineness, Sympathy, Gratitude and Thankfulness


Orange Rose
Fascination, Passion & Desire, Enthusiasm & Energe, Pride, "I am so proud of you"


Black Rose
Farewell & Sorrow, Loss & Mortality, Death of Old habits, Begining of new things or journey, Courage & Resistance, Halloween More details...

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Koffee Time - Sharing Thoughts with you

                                 ~ ~ ~ "Recipe for Miracles" ~ ~ ~

Ingredients:
1 part of knowing who you are
1 part of knowing who you aren't
1 part of knowing what you want
1 part of knowing who you wish to be
1 part of knowing what you already have
1 part of choosing wisely from what you have
1 part of loving and thanking for ALL you have

Instructions:
Combine ingredients together gently and carefully, using faith and vision. Mix together with strong belief of the outcome until finely blended.Use thoughts, words and actions for best results.

Bake until Blessed. Give thanks again
Yield: Unlimited servings


                              ~ ~ ~ Recipe for drama: ~ ~ ~
1 cup of gossip (from people who don't even know you, or you them) 1/4 cup of rumors, a pinch of green envy and best of all a tablespoon of attitude. Let simmer. You'll know it's done when it all boils over...


                             ~ ~ ~ Matthew 5 ~ ~ ~
Note the sequence of Matt 5... We recognize our need (Blessed are the poor in spirit), We repent, (Blessed are they who mourn), we surrender to God's control, (Blessed are the meek) We yearn for His presence (Hunger & thirst), We grow closer to Him and forgive, (blessed are the merciful) We change our outlook (Pure in ...heart) Love others, (blessed are peacemakers) enduring injustice. (Persecution)! ~adapted from Max


                                    ~ ~ ~ The Turtle ~ ~ ~
Taking their homes with them wherever they go, turtles remind us to remember our roots while still welcoming new places and phases in life. They teach us to appreciate life's simple, true necessities, shelter, food,drink and most importantly faith. The turtle's slow gait requires the animal to have faith that it will eventually get where it is going and that its needs will be satisfied along the way

Someone shared the Turtle with me and I thought it was great, so I'm sharing as well...JMSQ

                   ~ ~ ~  By: Karen Puff Rosenkrantz ~ ~ ~
"Calling Jesus "Lord" does not necessarily mean you have submitted to
His Lordship. The proof of His Lordship over you is not in what you call
Him; it is in the obedience to what He says." ~Chip Brogden~


                            ~ ~ ~ The Bible ~ ~ ~
THE BIBLE Contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners. Happiness of the saved. Here heaven is opened, hell disclosed. Your present choice will decide your eternal state.!Amen!

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Friendship Oak Tree

                                          The Famous Friendship Oak


On the beachfront campus of The University of Southern Mississippi-Gulf Coast (formerly Gulf Park), overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, is a magnificent live oak tree 500 plus years old. The tree is loved by former students of Gulf Park College, revered by tree lovers, held in fond memory by those whose wedding ceremonies were conducted on the platform with its mighty branches, and viewed daily by tourist. This is the Friendship Oak.



   Friendship Oak keeps her majestic vigil on the Gulf of Mexico, a vigil which dates back to 1487.  If asked about the length of stay on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, she might reply: "I was a sapling when Christopher Columbus sailed the Caribbean, and had begun to bear acorns when Ponce de Leon reached Florida in quest for the Fountain of Youth.  In 1587, the year Virginia Dare, the first white child born at Roanoke Island, appeared, I had turned a hundred years...."


Current measurements show a 50-foot height; diameter of trunk 5 feet 9 inches; circumference of the trunk is 18 feet 7 inches, spread of foliage, 156 feet.  The average length of the main lateral limbs is 60-66 feet from the trunk; average circumference of limbs at the trunk is 7 1/2 feet; the tree forms almost 16,000 square feet of shelter and lateral roots go out 150 feet.

Her motto on the plaque reads: "I am called 'Friendship Oak.'  Those who enter my shadow are supposed to remain friends through all their lifetime no matter where fate may take them in after years."

Friday, October 15, 2010

The Thorn By: Beverly Lewis


Well I took Ron to the Dr's this morning, while waiting in the waiting room, I finished the book I started, By: Beverly Lewis Called the Thorn. Left me BEGGING FOR MORE, how on earth am I going to wait until April 2011 for book 2 of 3 to come out of the Rose Trilogy ..


I so love the writtings and story theme's of Beverly Lewis. I have so many of her books and love them all

Romance, mystery, and family drama intertwine deep in the heart of Lancaster County's Amish country. The Thorn is Book One in a stirring new sage from Beverly Lewis, "the reigning queen of Amish fiction"
                                               --Library Journal


This book is about two Amish sisters divided by one sister's impulsive marriage to an outsider... Hen longs for the Old Ways she left behind...

Rose is unsure of her own heart- devoted to the bishop's rebellious foster son Nick, yet courted by another

So, if your looking for a great book to just relax with, I suggest The Thorn, you won't be sorry