Pick an Author like you...

Something 2 do with Records

2012-01-20T18:35:00.000-08:00

Clocks...

Bookends...

Frames! So adorable!

A-Z Attributes of God

2012-01-18T08:08:00.000-08:00

http://www.4shared.com/office/JFVAGtlO/a-zGod.html

Found a great site called "Roadmaps for Worship" and I created a 1-page document that is attached above for the A-Z Attributes of God. I don't know which letter I'm the most excited to praise God for driving to school- the kids always trump my list. But good for them!

They did choose "Creator" for the letter "C," and this is where it's got to be one of the best ways to praise Him. Starts everything off in the beginning, makes every person unique and wonderfully...

¹³ For you created my inmost being;
   you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
¹⁴ I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful,
   I know that full well.
¹⁵ My frame was not hidden from you
   when I was made in the secret place,
   when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
¹⁶ Your eyes saw my unformed body;
   all the days ordained for me were written in your book
   before one of them came to be.
¹⁷ How precious to me are your thoughts, God!
   How vast is the sum of them!
¹⁸ Were I to count them,
   they would outnumber the grains of sand—
   when I awake, I am still with you. Psalm 139:13-18

Funny Search

2012-01-18T07:54:00.000-08:00

Today I was looking for a list of qualities of God from A-Z for the kids. I am still searching. However, someone had started a list almost the opposite (fears)... I couldn't believe there was a name for being afraid of flutes. They're so scary evidently.

Ablutophobia- Fear of washing or bathing.
Acarophobia- Fear of itching or of the insects that cause itching.
Acerophobia- Fear of sourness.
Achluophobia- Fear of darkness.
Acousticophobia- Fear of noise.
Acrophobia- Fear of heights.
Aerophobia- Fear of drafts, air swallowing, or airbourne noxious substances.
Aeroacrophobia- Fear of open high places.
Aeronausiphobia- Fear of vomiting secondary to airsickness.
Agateophobia- Fear of insanity.
Agliophobia- Fear of pain.
Agoraphobia- Fear of open spaces or of being in crowded, public places like markets. Fear of leaving a safe place.
Agrizoophobia- Fear of wild animals.
Agyrophobia- Fear of streets or crossing the street.
Aichmophobia- Fear of needles or pointed objects.
Ailurophobia- Fear of cats.
Albuminurophobia- Fear of kidney disease.
Alektorophobia- Fear of chickens.
Algophobia- Fear of pain.
Alliumphobia- Fear of garlic.
Allodoxaphobia- Fear of opinions.
Altophobia- Fear of heights.
Amathophobia- Fear of dust.
Amaxophobia- Fear of riding in a car.
Ambulophobia- Fear of walking.
Amnesiphobia- Fear of amnesia.
Amychophobia- Fear of scratches or being scratched.
Anablephobia- Fear of looking up.
Ancraophobia- Fear of wind. (Anemophobia)
Androphobia- Fear of men.
Anemophobia- Fear of air drafts or wind.(Ancraophobia)
Anginophobia- Fear of angina, choking or narrowness.
Anglophobia- Fear of England or English culture, etc.
Angrophobia - Fear of anger or of becoming angry.
Ankylophobia- Fear of immobility of a joint.
Anthrophobia or Anthophobia- Fear of flowers.
Anthropophobia- Fear of people or society.
Antlophobia- Fear of floods.
Anuptaphobia- Fear of staying single.
Apeirophobia- Fear of infinity.
Aphenphosmphobia- Fear of being touched. (Haphephobia)
Apiphobia- Fear of bees.
Apotemnophobia- Fear of persons with amputations.
Arachibutyrophobia- Fear of peanut butter sticking to the roof of the mouth.
Arachnephobia or Arachnophobia- Fear of spiders.
Arithmophobia- Fear of numbers.
Arrhenphobia- Fear of men.
Arsonphobia- Fear of fire.
Asthenophobia- Fear of fainting or weakness.
Astraphobia or Astrapophobia- Fear of thunder and lightning.(Ceraunophobia, Keraunophobia)
Astrophobia- Fear of stars or celestial space.
Asymmetriphobia- Fear of asymmetrical things.
Ataxiophobia- Fear of ataxia. (muscular incoordination)
Ataxophobia- Fear of disorder or untidiness.
Atelophobia- Fear of imperfection.
Atephobia- Fear of ruin or ruins.
Athazagoraphobia- Fear of being forgotton or ignored or forgetting.
Atomosophobia- Fear of atomic explosions.
Atychiphobia- Fear of failure.
Aulophobia- Fear of flutes.
Aurophobia- Fear of gold.
Auroraphobia- Fear of Northern lights.
Autodysomophobia- Fear of one that has a vile odor.
Automatonophobia- Fear of ventriloquist's dummies, animatronic creatures, wax statues - anything that falsly represents a sentient being.
Automysophobia- Fear of being dirty.
Autophobia- Fear of being alone or of oneself.
Aviophobia or Aviatophobia- Fear of flying.
Bacillophobia- Fear of microbes.
Bacteriophobia- Fear of bacteria.
Ballistophobia- Fear of missiles or bullets.
Bolshephobia- Fear of Bolsheviks.
Barophobia- Fear of gravity.
Basophobia or Basiphobia- Inability to stand. Fear of walking or falling.
Bathmophobia- Fear of stairs or steep slopes.
Bathophobia- Fear of depth.
Batophobia- Fear of heights or being close to high buildings.
Batrachophobia- Fear of amphibians, such as frogs, newts, salamanders, etc.
Belonephobia- Fear of pins and needles. (Aichmophobia)
Bibliophobia- Fear of books.
Blennophobia- Fear of slime.
Bogyphobia- Fear of bogeys or the bogeyman.
Botanophobia- Fear of plants.
Bromidrosiphobia or Bromidrophobia- Fear of body smells.
Brontophobia- Fear of thunder and lightning.
Bufonophobia- Fear of toads.
Cacophobia- Fear of ugliness.
Cainophobia or Cainotophobia- Fear of newness, novelty.
Caligynephobia- Fear of beautiful women.
Cancerophobia or Carcinophobia- Fear of cancer.
Cardiophobia- Fear of the heart.
Carnophobia- Fear of meat.
Catagelophobia- Fear of being ridiculed.
Catapedaphobia- Fear of jumping from high and low places.
Cathisophobia- Fear of sitting.
Catoptrophobia- Fear of mirrors.
Cenophobia or Centophobia- Fear of new things or ideas.
Ceraunophobia or Keraunophobia- Fear of thunder and lightning.(Astraphobia, Astrapophobia)
Chaetophobia- Fear of hair.
Cheimaphobia or Cheimatophobia- Fear of cold.(Frigophobia, Psychophobia)
Chemophobia- Fear of chemicals or working with chemicals.
Cherophobia- Fear of gaiety.
Chionophobia- Fear of snow.
Chiraptophobia- Fear of being touched.
Chirophobia- Fear of hands.
Cholerophobia- Fear of anger or the fear of cholera.
Chorophobia- Fear of dancing.
Chrometophobia or Chrematophobia- Fear of money.
Chromophobia or Chromatophobia- Fear of colors.
Chronophobia- Fear of time.
Chronomentrophobia- Fear of clocks.
Cibophobia- Fear of food.

Goji Berry Cider

2012-01-11T16:47:00.000-08:00

Recipe:

Mix 1 Tb. goji berry juice + 1/4 t. ground cinnamon in a food processor or blender *add Stevia or vanilla if desired

Add 1/2 c. boiling water and mix

$32.16 from Vitacost.com, it will last a month and expires after a month

Goji berry juice is a juice derived from the goji berry, of course. The goji berry is found in the Himalaya and other mountain ranges in China and have become the antioxidant powerhouse they are thanks to the news that they cure a number of ailments and prevent a host of others. Goji berries rank extremely high on the antioxidant scale, boasting of more antioxidant value than blueberries, strawberries and spinach put together. It's believed that goji berry juice can help prevent cancer, improve vision and heart health, improve sexual health, regulate blood pressure, and counter premature aging

This fruit is good to consume because you won't find preservatives and other additives in them. So, you'll have a healthy regimen, even when you're away from home. However, more people prefer to consume the healthy beverage instead. Why? Well, one reason is that everyone doesn't care for the taste of dried fruit. This fruit, in particular has a twangy, bitter sort of taste. It has a mixture of sweet and sour flavor in it.

In addition to adults, children also consume this health beverage. Some children are not too keen about consuming something that has a bitter twang. It may also take them longer to chew and digest this fruit as opposed to drinking a portion of the juice within seconds. With the dried fruit, all you have is the taste from that and nothing else. On the other hand, with the juice, you have more options. Even though both are good to consume for health purposes, the juice can be combined with other juices. This will help to dilute and lessen the bitter taste that comes from the dried fruit. According to sources citing the Beijing Nutrition Research Institute analysis, the fruit contains more beta carotene than carrots, the fruit also contains over 18 amino acids, 21 trace minerals, and substantial amounts of vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6 and vitamin E. The analysis also apparently discovered the berries to contain essential fatty acids and to be an incredibly rich source of carotenoids (more than any other known food).

The essential oil component of Cinnamon has anti-coagulant properties, which helps to thin blood and improves circulation. (Caution is advised for those already on blood thinning medication). It also exhibits anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. The anti-microbial action helps to preserve food and can be used in place of common food preservatives. It not only helps to prevent food spoilage by common bacteria, but also by yeasts. Cinnamon is one of the few herbs that can used to treat fungal growths like candida.

Cinnamon is a warming aromatic tonic that stimulates the digestive system and can help reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Recent studies have found it to be quite effective for 'metabolic syndrome' a 'pre' stage of insulin resistant type 2 diabetes. As little as 2 teaspoons of the spice have shown a marked effect in people who were not on insulin medication. It achieves this effect by delaying emptying of the stomach content after a meal, which prevents blood sugar peaks. It also sensitizes insulin receptors and inhibits an enzyme that inactivates these receptors, thus making a significant impact on glucose uptake. This is great news as Cinnamon can so easily be added to foods and drinks as part of a normal diet. Another study has shown that Cinnamon can have a benefits in cognitive function.

Two Pairs of Shoes

2012-01-04T07:18:00.000-08:00

Right now I have black boots and black shoes. They gave me something to think about. You see, I am the type of person that tries to take good care of my possessions so they last as long as possible. Good stewardship I'd like to say. Yet the reality is that everything does eventually wear out much to my dismay. If we have a newer clothes and old shoes, the whole thing doesn't really mesh. However, I'm aware there's a difference in pursuing beauty verses meeting needs. But, let's just say the black shoes we own wear out and we do need to replace them. The following insights are the food for thought I'm wanting to pass along to my daughters.

1. Buy what is on sale and will be durable. If you put my sale priced shoes alongside someone who invested a lot of money in their shoes, if they get scuffed or lost, who is going to be more upset? Did you ever notice how people that spend a lot of time shopping and finding products can sometimes go on and on? I think this is a result of how much they've invested in them on the front end. It became a hunt instead of a gather. (for a look at obsession balanced with truth, watch Amy Adam's movie!!!)

2. Recognize when you're buying something for the beauty of it and find beauty somewhere else. For me, at one point I realized I had WAY more stationery than I'd ever use. I told myself I was going to use up my stationery before buying anymore. It was great! I could look at the different beautiful papers, but I didn't need to buy them. I used up paper that I didn't care for as much, telling myself that the message I was writing was more important than the pretty paper. To find beauty, start a collection of clippings of ideas and colors and look at them for fun. Not every idea has to turn into a purchase - it can be an artistic expression and be just as satisfying.

3. The thing that has helped me squash materialism the most is the song, "The Wondrous Cross" (contemporary version :) There's a part in the song that says,

"When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,

My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride."

Contempt means WORTHLESS! I thought about my pride, what I took pride in, and it was sad. I focused on so many things other that Jesus, God's love, prayer, etc., and I identified that pride did come from some worldly things in my life. I wanted to pour contempt on them at that point. It was a challenge for me then, and it can still challenge me now. However, I can look beautiful and try to make sure I connect with people - isn't that the goal of looking beautiful, to attract attention (and then give attention!) It's a surface expression of the joy that's inside... and if you step on my shoes, it's likely I'll be forgiving. That's the story of two pair of shoes - it's enough and not too much, and hopefully you'll consider what's too much for you. I'm sure contentment in the Lord will prove to be of greater value and blessing than you ever imagined.

www.easyreadingpicks.blogspot.com

Photo Card

2012-01-02T17:56:00.001-08:00

Confetti Countdown Filmstrip New Year's

Create custom new year's invitations at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

Bathroom Jewelry

2011-12-27T05:42:00.000-08:00

Who needs 2 towel racks? Not me! This is the second one in our bathroom, and I opted to let it hold my string of necklaces. Thanks to my mom's stint of selling Lia Sophia, I have a few hand-me-downs! The painting was one that my husband's grandpa painted and it really brightens the space. I'm realizing for mornings that strike as rude awakenings, a pretty bathroom can make a glimmer of difference...happy teeth-brushing!

2011-12-23T10:41:00.000-08:00

The Art of MarriageGetting to the Heart of God's design

This six session video series brings together some of the most respected and influential pastors and experts on marriage and family all in one setting. It also brings a fresh approach to a video event by weaving together some of the following elements to help couples fully experience God's design for marriage:

Central Baptist Church

3100 W Ralph Rogers Rd

Sioux Falls, SD 57108

February 3-4, 2012

605.336.3378

Event Details

Location: Central Baptist Church

Dates: Friday, Feb 3 2012, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Saturday, Feb 4 2012, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Address: 3102 W. Ralph Rogers Rd, Sioux Falls, SD 57108

Directions: Google, Yahoo, Bing, MapQuest

Contact: 501.626.6353, tsteele@familylife.com

Food Details: The cost of the weekend includes a catered lunch on Saturday and breakout snacks and beverages.

Child Care: Childcare will be provided FREE for registered guests; however registration is needed. Please register your child(ren) with an email to Sheila Steele (familyofsteele@gmail.com) with their names and ages.

Capacity: 100 Couples

Special Instructions: The Art of Marriage consists of six video sessions and an accompanying manual that provides couples with projects to help apply the principles taught during each session. This fast-paced, engaging, dramatic video event is both fun and challenging at the same time.
This 24-hour event is open to married and premarried couples; even singles will appreciate this glimpse into married life.
The manual is also designed for couples to use after the event by offering articles, date night ideas, and useful tips for continuing to strengthen their marriage.

Please consider joining us! You'll love it!

Register @ https://cbcsiouxfalls.webconnex.com/AOM

Childcare will be provided FREE for registered guests; however registration is needed. Details are found on the registration page.

Lunch on Saturday and breakout snacks/beverages will be provided and are part of the event fee - $50/couple.

Stevia Bars

2011-12-23T08:58:00.000-08:00

We made the recipe from the post below. I was amazed at how the almond butter flavors very similarly to flour after baking. I did use a full cup of rice flour, and if I was to bake again, I believe I'd add another egg to help with the moisture level. The batter itself didn't taste all that sweet, and the chocolate was the main sweet note. From previous baking with new flours, I decided to do bars instead of cookies and that seemed to help with crumbling.

2011-12-19T16:04:00.000-08:00

This post is in honor of those of us trying Stevia and having their recipes flop. The recipe below for Chocolate Chip Cookies looked like it has about the right proportions and I will likely try it over the Christmas break and report back. I will sub in rice flour for the whole wheat flour.

I was happy to have my knock-off Pomegranite Market's Cucumber Salad turn out great with Stevia. For that one I mixed ¼ c. Veganaise (no hormones in it, tastes the same...could use mayo), ¼ t. dill seasoning, 1/8 t. organic apple cider vinegar (this is strong but it's better for your digestion than processed vinegars and flavor is great w/ the other ingredients) and 1/8 t. Stevia (it was one little packet) and of course the sliced cucumber (one). Cucumber is not one of my favorite vegetables, but since it is so nutritious, I wanted to like it. The dressing of this recipe really compliments the flavor ot the cucumber and gives it the right balance for me. I hope you try it!

Chocolate Chip Cookies

1/2 cup margarine

1/2 cup almond butter

1/3 cup mashed banana

1 large egg

1/2 teaspoon powdered stevia extract

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup Whole wheat flour

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

3/4 cup chocolate chips

1. Preheat over to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Cream margarine until soft. Slowly add in almond butter.

3. Mix in mashed banana.

4. Mix in egg.

5. Mix in stevia and vanilla

6. In a different bowl, sift flour, baking soda and salt together.

7. Mix flour mixture into the liquid ingredients.

8. Add chocolate chips and stir.

9. If the batter is not quite stiff, add a few more tablespoons of flour.

10. Chill the dough to make it easier to handle

11. Drop tablespoon sized lumps of batter onto a greased cookie sheet. Flatten slightly with a fork.

12. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes.

Why it's been good to stay at home...

2011-12-19T07:07:00.000-08:00

This week I am pondering reasons why I'm thankful to be a 12-year veteran of staying at home with one, two and then three children. Now that they are in school, it's a different "thing," and as the kids were smaller I never envisioned this "time" of my life not working a regular job, but today I'm grateful for it. I felt like blogging about it was not only a way to express myself, but also to encourage those on the same road. I've gotten to share those feelings every now and again together or at bible study, and it's been a good thing. This is in no way an effort to condemn those who need or want to work full-time, but sometimes it seems to dangle out there like a carrot on rough days at home. At times I have completely been at peace about staying at home, and other times, I think when I'm not fully using my gifts and talents with my children and others, a job seems attractive again. But enough with the analysis of why...let's get back to my current reality.

Why it's been good to stay at home...
1. As my kids are in school, I can check in on them...bring them lunch and know their friends.
2. I've been able to provide assistance to other moms when they need to run errands, have foster children or to do play dates for my kids during the week.
3. I can do the dishes in the middle of the afternoon.
4. I can get all excited during the day over a wonderful bible study, process it, and still be calm by the time I should be crawling into bed.
5. A friend can call and we can talk for an hour. We can pray for one another and help each other through the rough spots.
6. I can take all week to plan something for the weekend.
7. I really care about my husband's situation at work, as I know it means our livelihood and much of his happiness. It gives me passion in prayer for him.
8. I can spend an hour gathering ideas for activities to do at home or with others without guilt.
9. I have time to get the groceries and exercise.
10. I can avoid heavy traffic.
11. I don't have to rush to get ready in the morning.
12. Most of my conversations are about the people I love, not things that need to get done.
13. I have time to get the good deals online and from newspapers.
14. My children are proud to tell others their mom stays at home.
15. As a 5th grader, my eldest still said for her life she wanted to be a stay at home mom and go to school for music.
16. My children have great friends and also are kind to younger children.
17. I invest in what my kids learn as we've spend a lot of time at home discussing our values - this may have rewards for years to come.
18. If a package comes in the mail, I know about it right away.
19. I have the time to stop and light a candle.
20. I can learn about all the stuff I didn't care about in school and am interested in now. I can share these things with the checkout person at the grocery store, in a useless trivia discussion or just for the fun of it. And the stuff in the bible...well, that is drawing me ever nearer to the One who loves me perfectly and completely. He's helping me to love others more too. What blessings!

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure,whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Proverbs 31 Woman

2011-12-15T11:32:00.000-08:00

This week I spent some time in Proverbs 31. It hit me because the snow will be coming (I know this because my birthday is on the first day of winter & it's usually a doozy!) I do live in South Dakota, and snow is inevitable. I wondered how bad the snow was in bible times. Anyway, here's where I'm at with Proverbs 31 today.

Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character

A wife of noble character who can find?

She is worth far more than rubies.

Her husband has full confidence in her

and lacks nothing of value. (SO I am thinking here that I need to post the scripture with a picture of a ruby to remind myself of the value I could be...of course, some days I do feel like a genuine rhinestone...most days I think I opted for the cheaper version!)

She brings him good, not harm,

all the days of her life.

She selects wool and flax

and works with eager hands. (this ONE cracks me up because I have been choosing wool, as in WARM wool socks. We replaced some of our old ones for snow play and I'm using them for everyday...also flax because we've been looking for other grains besides wheat in our cooking)

She is like the merchant ships,

bringing her food from afar. (I've been doing this too, buying some good stuff from Vitacost.com. I like health food but not health food store prices.)

She gets up while it is still night;

she provides food for her family

and portions for her female servants. (Here's a goal - getting up earlier and paying someone to clean on a regular basis) .

She considers a field and buys it;

out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. (We did get some stock in Vitacost.com. I'm thinking I'd have no problem making a commercial - we'll see about the vineyard - I'd eat the produce, not make wine, so that's a plus)

She sets about her work vigorously;

her arms are strong for her tasks. (AND I've made it a goal to do 100 push-ups a couple times a week)

She sees that her trading is profitable,

and her lamp does not go out at night. (Chad & I used to pray every Friday over our finances, we're doing this again - accountability...here I go!)

In her hand she holds the distaff

and grasps the spindle with her fingers.

She opens her arms to the poor

and extends her hands to the needy. (This is a big goal as well - see Psalms 38-40)

When it snows, she has no fear for her household;

for all of them are clothed in scarlet. (snow...really?!!!)

She makes coverings for her bed;

she is clothed in fine linen and purple. (Yes, I do try to look nice and purple is a great color, right?)

Her husband is respected at the city gate,

where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. (Chad rocks - I did laugh on the inside when he offered to do the Christmas wrapping. He has helped though - so good report there)

She makes linen garments and sells them,

and supplies the merchants with sashes. (nope, don't sell anything...oh, wait, ads for Vitacost)

She is clothed with strength and dignity;

she can laugh at the days to come. (trying, really - a cheerful heart is good medicine)

She speaks with wisdom,

and faithful instruction is on her tongue. (yes, agree, I like God's words better than mine)

She watches over the affairs of her household

and does not eat the bread of idleness. (yes, idleness is annoying)

Her children arise and call her blessed;

her husband also, and he praises her: (some days, the ruby days)

“Many women do noble things,

but you surpass them all.”

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;

but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. (So TRUE!!! I see charm all the time and it's used for personal gain. Women rely on their looks sometimes too. Good thing that it's the fear of the Lord that brings praise worth having...that's my goal)

Honor her for all that her hands have done,

and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. (From the mouth of Sara Groves, "I live and I breathe for an audience of one")

Blessings, Jennifer

Five Poems

2011-12-09T06:51:00.000-08:00

The Salesian Missions produce small books that they publish to fund missions work. I looked them up after reading "Lift Up Your Hearts." Here are a few examples of the faith-focused poetry compiled in one of them.

Listless moments spent in flight, lost forever, a fool's delight. Lasting moments spent in prayer, saved forever, in heaven's care. Bill Tworney

"Candle of Faith"

Yesterday the day was dark

And washed with mirky streams;

My heart was marked with fitful fare

that spattered on my dreams

Yesterday revealed the past

And no one seemed to care

The hours threaded it with woes

But healing labored there.

Today the candle of my faith

Is held up to shine

In steady trust I forge a path

that time reveals as mine

Today I let my spirit soar

To sing unending song

And if for mercy I must wait

Lord, make me sweet and strong

Roxie Lusk Smith

Hearts that open to the love that is God, feel loved in loving and served in serving. Edward Gloeggler

"A Light at the End of the Tunnel"
There's a light at the end of the tunnel, a love awaiting me there
All cares and troubles I will leave behind, as I climb the golden stairs
There's a light at the end of the tunnel, meeting my Lord face to face
And I'll be in the home that I long for, saved by His heavenly grace...Helen Parker

"Nobility" by Alice Cary

True worth is in being, not seeming-

In doing each day that goes by

Some little good - not in dreaming

Of great things to do by and by

Whatever men say in their blindness

And spite of their fancies of youth

There's nothing so kingly as kindness

And nothing so royal as truth

We get back our mete what we measure

We cannot do wrong and feel right

Nor can we give pain and gain pleasure

For justice avenges each slight

For good lie not in pursuing

Nor gaining of great nor of small

But just in the doing, and doing

As we would be done by, is all

Great Coupons, Great Products

2011-12-08T09:28:00.000-08:00

I have been trying Lundberg's Risottos as well as a few other products they carry. From their website you can email them that you'd like to try their chips, rice cakes, rice blends, etc. and they send two $1.00 off coupons in the mail. We tried the Tuscan Risotto and enjoyed it.

www.lundberg.com

CD Surprise

2011-11-25T11:26:00.000-08:00

Driving around I heard "Reach" and I was thinking, "Man, some label sure wise to sign a new band that sounds like the Newsboys." They never said the artist's name at the time on the radio. That day then I stopped at Crossroads for some gift shopping & I nabbed the computer. When I typed in "Reach" I was so excited to see Peter Furler's name come up, as he was the former Newsboys lead singer! Next thing I know I'm looking at the CD's and I see the "On Fire" CD is only $9.99. Guess I needed it because there's this annoying squeak coming from my dash in colder weather & now I can crank up the music!!!

www.easyreadingpicks.blogspot.com

Name Calling

2011-11-15T08:45:00.000-08:00

Andrew shot a few photos and this one was classic. Note that I did not say "classy" - CLASSIC! I started off the day in my comfy clothes to sew the scarf from a peacock shirt my mom was willing to let me alter. You know a fun fact about peacocks, they're a symbol of Christ because of His body not seeing decay. Peacock's bodies apparently take a long time to decay...how someone linked these two things is kind of funny - well, I suppose it makes me think of the miracle of salvation for a moment now. Okay, back on subject... My mom passed on some jewelry (the earrings), but then when I put the 80's scarf around my head dear Grandpa Mel called me "Aunt Jemima." Chad got a kick out of that sentiment. I took it as a compliment. You have to love someone a lot to tease them, right~?~ Maybe I do have some Southern hospitality afterall! We took a photo of the stir fry I made last night because of the beautiful colors that cooked up... You know who to call for health food (my kids are looking for someone to call for pizza!!!!)

Trade Beauty products for Kitchen tools?

2011-11-05T07:32:00.000-07:00

I am wanting to trade these products that I have newfound sensitivities to for kitchen tools. I'm looking for a Pampered Chef garlic press (anyone have great visions but not really buying garlic & cooking with it?) In addition, those little rubber things that businesses give away free to help get lids off, a citrus peeler and a handheld grater. The main thing I'm wanting though is the garlic press. The Juicy perfume is 90% full, FCUK is 1/8th full, Romance about the same. The Thermal Flat Iron spray is 60-70% full. Great trade or I'd also say they are worth $40.00 to the cause of kitchen gadgets!

Ezekiel 4:9 Cereals

2011-11-03T08:42:00.000-07:00

Chad & I looked up the Ezekiel passage and although this very simple diet was to serve as a retribution for sin (this is why Jesus makes a good advocate, as He paid the penalty for it when we accept His forgiveness), it's interesting how the combination had such provisions for nutritional needs. We are trying the Almond Ezekiel 4:9 cereal and I like it best with a little applesauce and milk warmed up. The kids mix it with Kashi Go Lean Crunch and Bran Buds. I even throw in some nuts sometimes for flavor.

Here's the tidbit from the company's website on the combination...

Ezekiel 4:9® Organic Sprouted Whole Grain Products are:

Flourless,
Organic,
Complete Protein,
and Sprouted Whole Grain

We discovered when these six grains and legumes are sprouted and combined, an amazing thing happens. A complete protein is created that closely parallels the protein found in milk and eggs. In fact, the protein quality is so high, that it is 84.3% as efficient as the highest recognized source of protein, containing all 9 essential amino acids. There are 18 amino acids present in this unique bread – from all vegetable sources – naturally balanced in nature. Rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and natural fiber with no added fat. Try it served warm to release its exceptionally rich nutty flavor.

Give it a try...especially if you're wanting to keep the staying power of a nutritious breakfast.

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From Big Brothers Big Sisters

2011-10-28T14:21:00.000-07:00

From Big Brothers Big Sisters: We have identified 112 children out of one elementary school here in Sioux Falls who have had a parent incarcerated either in jail or prison, so we are going to be in need of many additional mentors.

Just some stats for you –

Amachi Program (faith-based)

103 Active matches

21 Children on our waiting list (mostly boys)

We have served over 190 families in the last 4 years

We have spoken in 25 churches in the last 4 years

65% of the matches have involved faith in the match

With interest contact myself of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program of Sioux Falls.

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Funny One

2011-10-23T12:44:00.000-07:00

Laugh Lines Are Beautiful: And Other Age-Defying Truths

Leigh Anne Jasheway-Bryant

This book was one I glanced through at my aunt Lisa's house. She's one for a good laugh, and I was rolling through the funny one-liners and accompanying photos. Here's a quick glimpse of general gist... and use your imagination for the imagery!

Now that you're a "mature woman" you're smart enough to know...

"Have you lost weight?" is a good conversation starter, "Who are you again?" is always a good conversation ender.

You still look 20 something. From the back. At night. In the fog.

It's silly to long for a washboard stomach when you have a dashboard stomach - soft and padded with a built-in air bag.

It's never a good idea to wear slippers to the grocery store.

and the finale... "You should never spend more on anti-aging creams than you do airline tickets."

So true.

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My Prince of Peace

2011-10-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

Today I listened to Rebecca St. Jame's "Hold Me Jesus." I agree in how we see Christ as our King of Glory, but is He the Prince of Peace? Oh yes, He very much is, but I know I tend to resist the peace. I've been noticing lately how damaging it is though. Here are a few verses that support the idea...

Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil. Psalm 37:8

And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Matthew 6:28

When I looked up the lyrics to "Hold Me Jesus", I was reminded of Rich Mullins. In a biography I read about him it noted how he would not wear shoes or find a raggy t-shirt to wear in his performances. He would speak of his struggles in sin candidly to help his listeners not put him on a pedestal - and to keep God on the rightful throne.

I conclude with the chorus that was my prayer today.

So hold me Jesus, 'cause I'm shaking like a leaf
You have been King of my glory
Won't You be my Prince of Peace...Rich Mullins

Perhaps as Christ's character is perfected in me, I will experience more fully how He is the Prince of Peace. And might I add that Rich Mullins died young in an auto accident but was ministering with his music to underprivileged children....beautiful. The Lord continues to be exalted in his songs such as "Awesome God," "Step by Step" and more.

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Passing Time

2011-09-29T05:46:00.000-07:00

Over the summer when we visited Grandma and Grandpa in Minnesota at the lake we enjoyed making up songs to sing upon our arrival. This was one I found the other day, so blogging it to keep it somewhere virtual. It's to the tune of "The Farmer in the Dell."

The family's at the cabin,

Hie, hoe, the family-o,
The family's at the cabin.

We're so glad to see you,
We're so glad to see you,
Hie, hoe, the family-o,
The family's at the cabin.

In Olana's notes there was also a stick drawing of where we would stand in the house! Too cute!

Potato Leek Pizza

2011-09-19T14:51:00.000-07:00

Pizza crust
Olive oil
Kosher salt
6 slices bacon
3 leeks, rinsed, remove grit & thinly slice
5 potatoes (red or gold, sliced paper thin)
1 lb. mozarella cheese
4 oz. goat cheese
grated parmesan cheese
ground black pepper

Fry bacon until cooked, not crisp. Remove the backon 7 set aside. Add leeks to bacon pan an dcook med-low for 3 min. Slice potatoes & and arrange over crust. Sprinkle them lightly w/ salt, lay over mozz. slices. Leeks on top of cheese, fried backon, goat cheese/parmesan/bake 8-11 minutes at 500 degrees.

Fall is in the Air

2011-09-13T05:42:00.000-07:00

With the temperature dropping and sneezes, just a reminder to wash hands and drink fluides. There's a new free sample available now from Emergen-c too! It's a little packet with great vitamins for fighting colds! http://www.emergenc.com/

I'm ready for October already thinking of Andrew's birthday and getting things going for him. I loved this balloon wreath I found while browsing for paper jewelry. Isn't that how it goes online?

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New Craft Magazines (for real and to me)

2011-09-10T07:38:00.000-07:00

MollieMakes hit US markets in June, and yesterday was my first opportunity to read it. I was drawn by the vintage artwork on the cover and wasn't disappointed inside. There were neckties sewn into handbags, varnished paper bracelets and fabric tied up around jars (that's overly simplified for a decorative drinking glass!) Hopefully the photos will explain things. Another great magazine is Green Craft. I read the "Autumn" issue and found origami cupfolds out of newspaper to make for May Day and I'll post the instructions for the origami steps. They'd used colored and white thread to create random designs in the newspaper and embellished with bows and decorative tags. Super cute!

Make Jewelry From Maps - Renee Vians has been writing online since 2008. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and journalism and language arts certification from the University of Nebraska-Kearney. Her articles have appeared on various websites.

Paper may not seem as though it's the best material from which to make jewelry; however, with the right treatment, paper can be used to make all manner of bracelets, necklaces and earrings. Fiber artists use a variety of methods to make jewelry with paper that include folding or weaving or layering. Most beginners learn to make jewelry with paper beads, a process that involves rolling strips of paper into coils. With a little practice, the paper beads are easy to make and they can even be made inexpensively from recycled paper, using the contents of your paper shredder. Using paper direct from the shredder is ideal due to the relative uniformity of the strips that most shredders produce. If you would like to learn the steps involved in making beads for paper jewelry, continue reading.

Make jewelry with paper, one bead at a time. Lay a strip of paper face down. Keep in mind you will roll the strip up into a coil so you want to have the correct side showing.Dab petroleum jelly on the center of a toothpick. Use an amount of petroleum jelly that is sufficient enough to ease removal of the paper bead, but not so much jelly that it gets all over your fingers as you roll.

Coat one side of a strip of paper with glue. Go over the strip evenly with a glue stick. Avoid gluing the paper to the flat working surface.Roll the paper around the toothpick. Hold one end of the strip against the toothpick with your fingertip and start rolling. Make sure the strip is tight and even as you roll. Add a touch of glue to secure the end. Remove the paper bead from the toothpick and allow it to dry.

These were similar to the examples I saw in the magazine & likely a similar technique.

For the paper cup: Start with a square. Fold the paper in half upwards to make a triangle.

Fold the top corner down so that the edges meet, and unfold after making a line.

Fold the corner up so its tip meets the edge of the paper at the line you made. Next, fold the other tip up so it meets the corner you just created.
Fold the top flap down toward you. Fold the other flap down to the back side of the figure.