A Multi-Dimensional Life

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 17:42:00 +0000

WHAT MUST IT BE LIKE TO BE YOU.....

LORD?!!!

All the great power you possess ~

The miracles you’ve performed ~

The position of authority you hold~

the ability to change hearts and minds, heal the sick,

turn water into wine, walk on water;

even raise yourself from the dead!

You breathe life into all living beings and even stop all breath if you so choose. You hold it ALL ~ life and death, day and night, this world and all eternity in your mighty hand; yet you chose to lower yourself to our level as human to human for our eyes to see and our hearts to love and our minds to learn from.

While you walked among us you conversed, taught, gave of yourself, worked, rested, ate and drank, laughed and cried, held the sick in your arms and touched and healed the leper!

YOU, this fearless, majestic, eternal savior...

chose to become more like us for a short time,

so that we might see that there is nothing about us that you do not know - you have felt it all...experienced it all...

from love, acceptance, respect, and kindness,

to heartache, blame, abuse and rejection...

Then you took it ALL....

All our self centered, flesh serving, rebellious acts

upon yourself...

and paid the price for the sins you did NOT commit.

You were covered in filth as you carried the cross

to the place of your murder...WILLINGLY!

That cross was covered with your blood...

yet, in your darkest moment you cried out in compassion,

“Father forgive them for they know not what they do”.

Before your head dropped, you gasped “It IS Finished.”

Your lifeless body was then placed in the grave.

And because you are Lord,

You walked out of the guarded tomb and finally...

ascended to the Father’s right hand.

You returned to your position of authority!

YOU HAVE ALL POWER IN HEAVEN AND ON EARTH!

You did all of this for the inhabitants of the world...to set us free and give us the choice to LIVE! And if I would have been the only inhabitant you still would have done it all---for me!

You promised me a place in all eternity with you. But why?
I don’t deserve it? And to this I hear you say...

that is the point, my dear princess...you have been forgiven...this is grace...this is why it is called a gift...take the gift and humble yourself before the Lord as you receive the birthright I bought for you.

Your life is worth the price I paid. You are loved!

Oh, Lord...You reign in heaven and earth and in my heart ~ There is no word to describe the gratitude I feel!

As I shake my head in awe, I wonder....

What must it be like to be YOU....

LORD!!!

"But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

Romans 5:8

”That whosoever believe in Him should not perish but have Eternal Life.”

John 3:15

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 03:46:00 +0000

P E A C E B E W I T H Y O U !

As Christmas arrives, I thank God for the many blessings I have and for the salvation which is possible because of His sacrifice for me! I also pray for comfort and mercy on those grieving loss this year.

The compassionate video below was created by my friend Harry. I do hope you will click the link to watch. As you see the precious faces, please remember their loved ones in your prayers.

Merry Christmas!

May the fullness of Christ's Love be known to you!

A Tribute to the Victims of Sandy Hook Elementary

Vern's Light Display

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Sat, 15 Dec 2012 22:22:00 +0000

This crafty light display is just one of many fascinating masterpieces from our friend Vern's Christmas light show which he displays each year outside his home. Through the years Vern has been creating these gems with his very own hands, using pipes to construct the frames and his display has grown to be quite spectacular! As I drove friends past his amazing winter wonderland, we took numerous photos. I didn't get a good panoramic shot, but loved this one because it really tells his story well. It is a replica of one of his several antique cars he loving cares for and still exhibits at various car shows in several states....even now in his 90’s!

Vern gets a kick out of entertaining passersby with Christmas music playing softly in the background. If you open your car window, you can sing along with the carols as you marvel at his handiwork. He has even built mailboxes which look like the real deal where children can drop off their wish lists. I'm not sure if he still does this, but there was a time when he would drive to Santa Claus, IN to postmark his handwritten replies to the letters Santa received. What a jolly soul he is! I often wonder if perhaps he just might be Santa! ;)

Vern's love of friends, family and neighbors is evident by his acts of kindness and his sense of humor lights up our hearts

just like the December sky outside his

home for the holidays!

VERN’S LIGHT DISPLAY

When December comes,

The sky shines bright

The little drummer boy drums,

Rudolph leads us through the night,

And under the twinkling sky we see...

The wonderland of Oaksbury!

Snow people and the candy shop,

Ice rinks, dolls dressed up for play,

Cause all passing cars to stop,

Enchanted by Vern’s light display!

All made by just one crafty soul,

Assembled with his hands by day...

By night his vision casts its glow,

A thousand lights show us the way...

Just one man so strong and proud,

He need not say a word,

To each of us his hope abounds,

His love is clearly heard...

And we think of Vern not only during Christmas season,

But every day throughout the year,

For oh so many reasons...

He always lends a helping hand and always with a smile,

If you ask him for a favor, he goes the extra mile...

A tower of strength, his roots run deep

Like the mighty oaks which line our streets...

His life is an example

to all who know him well,

And each of us have precious

memories we tell...

Vern's light display at Christmastime

Draws crowds from miles away...

But the sparkle from his smile

Warms us each and every day!

(written by Lorraine Brown)

Two chicks and an Old Hen

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 18:55:00 +0000

Once upon a time there were two chicks...

the love of food...and an Old Hen...

One chick in Washington State and the other in Chicago! Separated by the miles, yet drawn together by similar interests...

Deanna Morauski with Joey Fatone

Lorraine Brown with Joey Fatone

YES That's Joey Fatone...(of "N Sync", boy band fame, movie star, dancing with the stars, star of My Family Recipe Rocks...and all around really great guy!)

The two chicks....my friend Deanna and me (Lorraine) ....united by a love for cooking, baking, laughter, miniature dachshunds, and God! Our paths were originally led together a few years ago by a cooking contest where we learned of one another through our home made cooking videos featuring our original weekly recipes in an on line cooking extravaganza. Since then, we've been sharing recipes via facebook and our blogs.

Last year about this time, I had the thrill of opening my home to the crew of a new show, My Family Recipe Rocks with host Joey Fatone , and this year Deanna had that same thrill. I'm wearing a great big grin as I recall the excitement of my experience and I continue to share in the fun now as Deanna's episode is about to air!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Meet my buddy Deanna Morauski...

Deanna’s love for baking and cooking began as she sat upon a baker’s stool as a little girl. Her love for people grew in the midst of church potlucks. She expresses her loves today creatively through speaking, writing for her foodie blog, television appearances as well as hosting guests, including celebrities, at her award-winning inn... The Old Hen Bed & Breakfast, Squanalme, Washington.

Deanna makes me giggle with her quick wit and I love the fact that she is just so real! As far apart as we are, it’s amazing at how technology has made it feel like she is right here. Well, one thing is definitely missing....I really want to sit face to face....hear her voice...see her smile...experience the warmth and coziness of her B&B, gobble up the delicious food she prepares, and laugh out loud together in person! Until then...I’ll be so delighted to watch her in action in her kitchen with Joey Fatone by her side, cooking up a storm! I can’t wait to see her episode air!

You can see Deanna on Joey Fatone's new show "My Family Recipe Rocks" on the Live Well Network this month on October 27th. She will be making four scrumptious recipes throughout an entire episode filmed at her B&B, The Old Hen. Follow along on her Facebook page or on Twitter for updates .

Here’s a preview of Deanna’s Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe:

A perfect comforting, hot dish that goes well with any meal!

Servings: 12

Ingredients:

2.5 pounds of russet potatoes

1 large yellow onion

1 cup milk

1 cup heavy cream

¾ cup flour

1 1/2 teaspoons of salt

1 1/2 teaspoons of pepper

1 cup sour cream

5 cups grated cheddar cheese (divided)

Directions:

Rinse and scrub about potatoes until clean.

Prepare a large bowl by filling with cold water and a couple of teaspoons of salt. Set aside.

Cut potatoes in quarters along the length of the potato. Cut out any undesirable spots.

Using a mandolin or… the quicker and easier food processor, slice potatoes thinly.

Place slices into cold salt water after each potato to prevent browning. Slice yellow onion thinly and place into a very large separate bowl.

Preheat oven to 350F.

Pour milk and heavy whipping cream into a medium bowl. Whisk flour into cream mixture.

Add salt and pepper and whisk again.

Drain water from potatoes.

Next, place sliced potatoes, cream mixture. Add sour cream and 3 cups of grated cheddar cheese into the large bowl with onions. Using hands, combine all of these ingredients very well.

Prepare baking dish (size 9 x 13 inches or comparable) by spraying with non-stick spray or smearing well with butter.

Place a layer of potato mixture into baking dish. Then, from the remaining 2 cups of cheddar, place a layer of cheddar cheese. Make about 3 layers total with cheese between each layer then pour any remaining cream mixture over potatoes.

Finally, layer top with remaining cheese. Loosely cover potatoes with foil for the first 1-½ hours of baking so the top layer doesn’t over bake. Remove foil after 1 ½ hours. Bake for about two hours total or until a fork poked into middle of potatoes comes out easily.

It’s a good idea to put a baking sheet on the oven shelf underneath your scalloped potatoes in case they overflow.

For a fancier flavor, you can add some Gruyere or Comté cheeses in place of some of the cheddar, 1/4 cup of white wine in place of 1/4 cup of the milk, or add freshly chopped herbs or ham.

Serve while steamy hot.

**I can't wait to see her remaining three recipes**

(Deanna's episode is scheduled to air at 8:00 central (9:00 eastern and pacific) on Saturday October 27th...and mine will re-air at 10:00 central (11:00 eastern and pacific) that same night! :)

you can check your listings for Live Well Network to find the accurate times in your area.

Summer refreshment ~

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 16:40:00 +0000

SUMMER HAS BEEN EXTREMELY HOT THIS YEAR...

We are in a drought here in the Midwest. Day after day, it has been 100 degrees and more! The sky hasn't released any moisture in weeks! We're doing whatever it takes to stay cool this year. Even the neighbor's over-sized golden retriever has a buzz cut for summer...looking more like a lab.

Finally, yesterday the heatwave broke and it was as if it was SPRINGTIME all over again! People coming out of their air conditioned "hibernation"; kids riding their bikes again, mom's pushing strollers, families taking long walks with their four legged friends...

I WANT TO CAPTURE EVERY MOMENT...

SITTING OUTSIDE UNDER THE CLEAR BLUE SKY...

ENJOYING SUNSETS OVER THE LAKE...

Listening to kids laugh as they splash in the water, reminding me of my own childhood summertime fun, causing me to reminisce about all the wonders of childhood summers...swimming pools, watermelon, the ice cream truck, and Orange Julius! Do you remember Orange Julius? I haven't seen an Orange Julius store in years!

As my craving intensified, I decided to make my own...and since I'm off of dairy right now, I used coconut milk and came up with a pretty close likeness to those frothy citrus shakes!

PUT AN ORANGE

IN THE COCONUT

AND BLEND IT ALL UP! ;)

I wasn't precise with this recipe because I made it up as I went along...
(had fun tasting my way to the finish)

squeezed two fresh oranges into my blender,
added about a cup of ice,
1 1/2 cups of coconut milk

*(I make my own coconut milk to drink, by opening a can of pure organic 100% coconut milk and placing it into a tall plastic container, adding enough water to make it the consistency of cream or whole milk and shaking very well)*

(I refrigerate whatever is left and use it as cream in my morning coffee)

(the reason I do this, is because many of the pre-packaged coconut milks have additives that I don't want. This is pure and it's also more creamy)

o.k. back to the "julius" ...

then I added one to two tsp. coconut sugar

(more or less as you desire)

http://www.coconutworld.biz/product.html

and about 1/4 tsp. vanilla
and blended really well

Yes, it's summer ~~ my time of year!

I hope you are enjoying summer...

with your frothy drink...

relaxing

under your clear blue sky!

And the winner is...

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 16:52:00 +0000

Drumrolllllll

First number it lands on is the winner...

Timestamp: 2012-06-15 16:10:13 UTC

The Sequence Generator has chosen number 11...

Congratulations to Donna!

I know this book will bring you smiles

and heartwarming moments with God!

~

For anyone who would like to order

this delightful book, simply visit Debby's web-page

http://www.deboraherdmann.com/

Debby, thank you for making this opportunity available

and I know your book will bless all who read it!

Here's The Scoop!

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Sat, 09 Jun 2012 16:00:00 +0000

I have the "inside scoop"

and you can have it too!

Think about how many "self help" books exist in our culture...Do any of them really hold the answer to that deepest question which swells within us?

Well, the book I'm holding in my hand is not a self help book. It is a delightful devotional filled with humor and real life experiences that we can all relate to on some level. Debby Erdmann's book is a humorous yet poignant look at life. She gives us a glimpse into some of her own episodes, sharing tidbits of wisdom. I giggled through the chapters and I dog eared many pages along the way! She's real...she's honest...she's witty...she's wise...and she's passionate about people. Her love for people and for God are lived out through the pages of her own journey as she shares the immeasurable value gained from a life with God and the lessons learned...some sweet..some challenging...some funny...but all profound...from inside her heart which was opened wide to receive the fullness of the love of God and share it with others!

So here's the scoop...

Simply leave a comment to be eligible to win

an autographed copy of this delightful book...

The winner will be announced on Friday,

June 15th!

For a closer look and for ordering information for
"The Inside Scoop on God"
you can visit www.deboraherdmann.com
and click on the tab for books at the top.

~

(Debby's blog, Heavenly Humor is also a delight...

When I first visited, I thought..."I want to know her"!)

Don't forget to check back to see if "The Inside Scoop on God" is yours! :)

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Fri, 18 May 2012 04:38:00 +0000

The air is so fresh and sweet today!

We're enjoying the May temperatures;

flowers in full bloom all around us;

and the vibrancy of the colors, especially the way the sun shines upon the newly cut green lawn!

We are spending time on the patio, in the parks and family barbeques. The kids are collecting a few grass stains as they play touch football and the dog seems to be smiling, as she springs into the air to catch the frisbee!

Of course there are a few negatives...

it's bug season again!

Fly’s Last Supper!

Fly swatter in hand he sits

Jumping up with each buzz,

Head spinning, arms flailing in fits,

Then down again to wait…

It’s o.k. I’ve set a good bait!

Come on back,

Grab a snack,

I’ll give you a good whack!

I don’t have anywhere to go,

Soooooooo….

Keep taunting me,

You’ll be history!

Careful who you mess with,

I’ve been around the block,

I’ll fix your clock!

Fast little bugger…

Landing on one window then another,

Zipping by from light to light!

Trying to sneak up on me and take a bite?!

Come on in for a landing….It’s alright,

I’ll be your last supper…

GOTCHA….

Nighty night!!!

More to remember

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Sun, 13 May 2012 05:51:00 +0000

Occasionally, my dad's birthday would land on Mother's Day...

Which makes this Mother's Day even more special...

I miss him so...

but he and my mom both live on in the little things I do and say...
their mannerisms, voices, features...

his strength and determination, his love of nature & creativity,
and some say...

his eyes ~

Daddy's little girl

Although my mother is no longer on this earth,
I feel her love imprinted on my heart,

Dad and Mom ~ young love

her words still speak softly

to my soul,

her grace and unconditional love,

forgiveness and friendship endure;

her humor lives on;

I can almost hear her laughter

and many times

I think I hear her voice...

She still holds my heart...

In...

HER HANDS
(I wanted to re-post this tribute to mom,
but thought I'd just link it up here)

All the more special this Mother's Day is.
All the more reason to celebrate
two loving parents...both gifts from God.

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Thu, 03 May 2012 18:34:00 +0000

Bright and sunny days replace the gloom,

open windows softly bring

fresh warm breezes to the room

angelic birds begin to sing,

buds of flowers now in bloom...

The cardinal is inviting me outdoors

To enjoy the beauty of God's creation

The rain has stopped and the sun is shining…

So glad to open the windows,

Inviting the fresh spring breeze to enter…

Along with the fragrance of Lily Of The Valley…

They’ve arrived right on time…

For my favorite month…

May!

'Tis my faith that every flower

Enjoys the air it breathes!

~William Wordsworth

What a Hoot!

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 02:47:00 +0000

I was just about to end my afternoon stroll with my near to the ground sniffing four legged friend. As we approached a small ravine several yards from home, we were awed by massive wings fluttering above our heads exiting one of the lush old oaks nearby. It was one of our neighborhood owls!

I'm so intrigued by owls and was thrilled to see one in the middle of the day! I’ve spotted one or two during the several years we’ve lived here…usually at dusk and I’ve still not been able to grab my camera in time to capture them in a photo. Same goes for today!

As he landed in another towering oak, perched on one of the open limbs, staring back at me, I grabbed my antiquated flip phone and clicked on the camera (which of course has no zoom and if you don’t hit the save button, everything disappears)… no luck. One of these days I just know I’ll capture a good one. Until then, I’ll have to remain content with the sound of their night-time serenade, listening to their cooing as I drift peacefully off to sleep.

When we first moved to this neck of the woods, we were introduced rather quickly to sights and sounds we had not experienced since childhood, if ever. Coming from the city, where the nightlife is a different type of wild, we found this to be refreshing…until we heard the howling of coyotes in a marsh behind our neighbor’s lot. That was a sound that I had never heard before. I much prefer the peaceful sounds of nature.

A few months after we moved here was first time we heard our resident owl. I was excited to announce it to my husband who immediately replied, “how do you know it’s an owl? It could be someone hiding in the bushes making the sound of an owl as a decoy!” Really? I replied…Really! ;) I like to remind my city boy of that comment now and then.

Of course, I’m not innocent either because I did call the cops on a deer once! It was dusk and I glanced out the window to see someone standing on a hilly area near our window. I could only make out the silhouette and I swear I saw a head and broad shoulders of someone wearing tan or dark grey…not moving…head pointed in my direction.

I panicked, closed all the blinds and called to report a peeping tom!

Fortunately, the police encouraged me to never resist calling, even for deer because “you just never know”! Whew...glad they are close by!

They did locate the perp...the big guy was hiding with his accomplices behind the hedgerow...

Ah, the wild wild woods ~ A few adjustments here and there and a few years later, and I’m finally settled in…calm, cool and collected…keeping my eyes wide open and my camera nearby.

A Bowl of Sunshine

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 22:00:00 +0000

It's a gloomy day in April...

damp from the storms we had last night...

the sun can't decide if it wants to make an appearance today...

after all it is Sunday...day of rest...

but not for the sun...

the sun always shines...somewhere!

well, if it IS shining on you today,

I hope you enjoy every moment...

every warm golden ray!

may today be a gift you embrace...

whether the sun is shining or not...

and may this soup be one to warm you

from the inside out...

loaded with antioxidants

to bring you good health...

flavor to satisfy your taste buds...

warmth from the spice of ginger and garlic...

I like to call it

A BOWL OF SUNSHINE!

C a r r o t - G i n g e r Soup

Ingredients:

Approx. 2 - 3 Tbs. Olive Oil
1 Large yellow Onion, minced
3 - 4 Garlic cloves, minced (use more or less according to your taste for garlic)
2 - 3 tsp. grated fresh ginger (for more heat and if you love ginger, feel free to add more - I've been known to use quite a bit more - ;)
1 ½ lb. carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
6 cups chicken stock (organic/all natural, no msg, lower sodium)
1 tsp. juice of fresh squeezed lemon
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

~ ~ ~ ~

Steps:

Since I like to do as many steps in one pan, I use a large soup pot for this entire recipe...

Drizzle the olive oil into the soup pot and warm over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, 3-5 minutes. (I chop all ingredients right into the pan - no extra plates, cutting boards or utensils needed).

I press in the garlic, grate in the ginger and chop in the carrots and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes, and then add the stock. Cook the ingredients over medium heat until the carrots are tender, about 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes (or when carrots are tender), remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the lemon juice and season with sea salt and pepper. (**You can also do this in a regular blender but wait until it is cool then re-heat in your soup pot, but of course, my immersion blender allows me to keep it all in the pot with less clean up)

Ladle hot soup into bowls (preferably warmed bowls). Garnish with a dollop of fat free sour cream or creme fraiche.. I like to use plain Greek yogurt. Add a sprig of parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately.

Serves 4 to 6.

I enjoy this soup with popovers!
click here for my quick and easy popovers recipe ~

P.S... If by chance there is soup left over, sometimes I'll use it to prepare a unique pasta sauce: Depending on how much soup is left, I like to stir in a tablespoon or so of plain Greek yogurt to the soup (just enough to thicken the soup into a sauce) and simmer over medium heat; add grated parmesan cheese and stir until bubbly and the consistency of a pasta sauce. I ladle over my favorite pasta, sprinkle with toasted chopped walnuts, fresh grated parmesan cheese & fresh basil and serve! I also love this sauce drizzled over a grilled chicken breast on a bed of quinoa or rice!)

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 04:18:00 +0000

WHAT'S SO GOOD ABOUT FRIDAY?

Friday came and went...a message sent...to every ear...

willing to hear...the message of tomorrow...

no more sorrow....Rejoice...

HE IS RISEN!!!

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 21:15:00 +0000

MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN WITH QUINOA !

I'M STILL ON CLOUD NINE AFTER A FUN DAY OF COOKING IN MY KITCHEN WITH JOEY FATONE!

I HAD SUCH BLAST

AND I'M SO VERY GRATEFUL FOR THIS EXPERIENCE!

THANKS AGAIN TO JOEY AND THE ENTIRE CREW OF

"MY FAMILY RECIPE ROCKS"

FOR BEING SO KIND

AND SO MUCH FUN TO BE WITH!!!

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO VIEW MY RECIPE click here

AND TO VIEW MY EPISODE WITH JOEY click here

One Big Merry Go Round!

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 18:46:00 +0000

There are days when things might not seem
to be going great...

I know we all feel fatigued or challenged,
even afraid at times...

Or we might even be on top of the world,
joyfully enjoying the fruits of our labors...

Or celebrating a big event...
perhaps a milestone birthday...
anniversary...birth of a child...

"Life is like a merry go round...some days you're up....some days you're down" (excerpted from a poem I wrote in Jr. high school --

received an A minus but the teacher wrote in big red ink at the top...

"depressing!")

Oh well! ... But isn't it true?!

So, today, I was merrily making the rounds, trying to get caught up on posts and came across this: FOR JEREMIAH

Needless to say, my heart was instantly stirred. I feel sad at the thought of a child's party and all the work the mom put into it and hardly anyone showing up. It created a pit in my stomach and I wished I could just give them all a big hug. Then to read about the generosity, compassion, dedication and desire of this couple to take not one, but two disabled children into their home and love them with the love only God could provide, made my heart cry out to God for His compassion to flood over them. It also made me feel small. In our day to day world, we can do what is put before us and hope to do it well. But TamiJoy and her husband are heroes as far as I'm concerned!

May God shine the brightest ray of sunshine upon their souls and bless them without measure.

Thanks Debby at Heavenly Humor for posting this and waking my spirit today!

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 04:47:00 +0000

ABBY ...

IS...

QUITE THE POSER...

Photo by Nicole Marie @ Nicole Marie Photography

This is just one of the photos from Abby's recent photo shoot...oh, yes...she's a model now! A super model as far as I'm concerned. She was so good as our super talented photographer friend Nicole snapped away all afternoon. I'm told there are plenty more pics coming soon, but for now these captured our hearts. If you notice in the pic above, I was trying to match her to our little pillow behind her! The necklace she is wearing actually belonged to my mom! Who would have guessed it would fit our little tweeny doxie pup! Well, she's not actually a pup anymore...you can see by the white around her nose and toes which used to be all tan. She'll be ten in April!
She's a great companion and so patient...obviously! ;)

photo by Nicole Marie @ Nicole Marie Photography

She Waits

when I walk in the door,

she greets me

with un-ending kisses

like a long lost love...

she showers me

with more adoration

than I deserve…

when I shed a tear

she wipes it away

with a soft, knowing kiss of compassion…

she comforts my soul

as she teaches me

what love should be!

she wants one thing…

she wants me!

she stays by my side every moment of the day,

as I seem to forget my companion's plea,

with her sweet love tap on my knee,

can we play?! oh please, can we play?!

I reply, "not yet but pretty soon",

as she resigns...

with her head on my lap

photo by Nicole Marie @ Nicole Marie Photography

she takes me at my word,

hope reflected in her eyes...

a little sigh now and then

to remind me

my best friend waits by my side.

You can find more pics of Abby, along with other adorable animals and pets and more incredible photos on Nicole's blog: http://www.nmarieblog.com/

And we'll be adding a few more tricks to Abby's routine. Just click here if you want to see Abby's show.

INSPIRATION

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 18:29:00 +0000

I BELIEVE ...

THOSE WHO ARE THE MOST TALENTED

ARE OFTEN THE BEST ENCOURAGERS ~

That's Charlotte...

A genuinely kind

and

compassionate

person!

I was fortunate to have met Charlotte Digregorio a couple of years ago through a reading group. She is a multi-talented, multi-lingual, award winning, internationally renowned writer/publisher/teacher. Her writing reaches around the globe and her resume extends almost that far!

When Charlotte requested an interview with me regarding my poetry, I was, needless to say...humbled and honored!

Here is the link to our interview:

Award winning-writer-delights-others-with-her-rhyming-poems/

THANK YOU CHARLOTTE!

Your encouragement

lifts me up

and inspires me!

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 02:26:00 +0000

Another "R" word...

"R e g r e t"

I arrived at the hospital just moments after my dear friend's father took his last breath. She sat at the edge of the hospital bed, the winter air chilling the room from the slightly opened window. It had been a long fight...a battle against a disease that only ravishes its victims...yet she felt as though there was something more she could have done.

Reality escaped her as her emotions carried her away. She believed with all her heart that it wasn't time for her dad to die and that if she had been at the hospital when he took a turn for the worse, she may have been able to help him hang on a little longer.

I wondered...why my friend felt as though the responsibility to keep her dad alive had been placed solely upon her shoulders? Why did she feel the need to keep him here instead of releasing him into the arms of God? Her father was 85 years old and dying of incurable cancer, which despite progressive medicine and a good fight, didn't relent. This man was suffering terribly, yet he fought to remain strong when his daughter was present. I wondered if he pushed himself this way to show her that he was willing to fight to stay alive not for himself, but as a selfless act of love for the daughter who wasn't ready to let him go. I wondered what, if anything had been left unsaid or unresolved between them. I found it interesting that (although the daughter would have wanted to be by her dad's side until the very end) her dad slipped away when she wasn't there.

Sometimes it's hard to let go. Some of us are born fighters, and sometimes that is what keeps us going -- even keeps us getting up every day to conquer what lies ahead. However, sometimes we fight and lose...we lose a battle...and we also lose sight of a bigger picture...a purpose...a plan.

Nobody knows just when their last breath on earth will be taken.

God does!

Sometimes things are out of our control. Sometimes we need to accept the inevitable. There truly was no way my friend could have saved her dad...it was time for her to let go. We must let go and allow our loved ones to freely enter God's eternal home. It is in His timing and as much as we might feel we have lost the fight, we haven't...a battle maybe...but the real fight has been won for us by Christ. In Him we have victory.

That last breath is not the end...it is the breath of eternity!

It is only when we release those whom we've been fighting to keep here in our earthly grasp, will we truly exhale!

REGRET
(written by Lorraine Brown/ (c) 3/15/06)

Walk away from the enemy,
Run if you can,
Just when you think he’s left you,
He’ll be back again.

He wants to make you worry,
He wants to make you sad,
He’ll remind you of mistakes you made,
He’ll make you feel so bad,
Walk Away -- That’s right, walk away!

If you stay there and listen,
He’s sure to make you pay,
For the sins you committed,
He’s sure to wreck your day.

Now turn your back on him,
He can’t hurt you though he’ll try,
But you’ve got the power,
To expel his dirty lie!

His name isn’t pretty,
Neither are his ways,
He sits on the sidelines
Tryin’ to wreck your days…
His name is Regret…
His mission is the same,
Regret! That’s him...Regret!

There’s a better name that waits for you,
A name you’ve heard a lot
He’s someone you can count on,
His name is God...
That’s right…it’s God…that’s right!

Walk away from regret,
He’s already lost,
A long time ago
When Jesus paid the cost,
Walk away! That’s right…walk away!

Hang on to the truth,
The truth won’t leave
If you grab the hand of God
If you really believe!

God will never leave you,
He will always be there,
He already forgave you,
He always cared!
That’s God…That’s right…That’s God!
Hold tight…to God…Hold tight…
So right…It’s God…So right!!!
(written by Lorraine Brown (c) copyright 2006)

Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 22:35:00 +0000

Well, it's never too late to start eating healthy!  As much as I avoid the word...."Resolutions"... I do admit that I have some personal "R" words tucked away in my heart.

First... Rest:   Not only by getting more sleep, but also by Resting in the presence of God. When I do, I feel Refreshed, Recharged, Renewed....and I Remember just how Real His love for me is!

By Remaining in Him, I can more easily hear His voice and Remember His word. As I do, I make the choice to keep his word and I ask Him to keep me!

As far as the physical...I'm hoping to eat less sugar and get back on track with the healthy diet I have always "tried" to maintain. Not for vanity, but for health. I believe in taking care of the body God gave me and remaining healthy starts with a good approach to eating clean.

As you might remember, I...Love...Quinoa!
(In addition to it's great taste, texture and versatility, it's packed with nutrients and a good source of protein, filled with amino acids, and it's gluten free).

I found this wonderful recipe for Quinoa Stuffed Peppers and loved it! This recipe was right on the box of Ancient Harvest Quinoa ...but I've changed a few things (like adding more garlic) ;)

QUINOA STUFFED PEPPERS

1 cup Traditional Quinoa

2 cups water

4 large or six medium green peppers

(slice off top and remove seeds; then rinse)

1 medium onion, diced

1/2 lb. fresh mushrooms, sliced

2 Tbsp. Butter (I used Olive Oil Instead of butter)

1- 29 oz. can diced tomatoes (reserve juice)

2 garlic cloves, crushed (I used 4 garlic cloves)

1 - 12 oz. jar Mexican Salsa

(I used 1 can rotel with green chiles instead of salsa)

2 Tbsp. Dry Sherry

(I used White Wine instead of cooking Sherry because it has less additives)

10 oz. Mozzarella cheese, shredded (I left off the mozzarella, and added grated parmesan after baking)

Pre-heat oven to 325.

Cook traditional quinoa as directed on package.

(quinoa cooks very easily like rice and is ready in approx. 15 - 20 minutes)

Steam the peppers until soft but not limp

In a large skillet, saute onion and mushrooms in olive oil

Add the diced tomatoes (reserve the juice for later)

Add the crushed garlic and the can of Rotel (or salsa)

Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes

Add the wine and simmer 10 more minutes

Fold in cooked quinoa

Place peppers in baking dish and fill with quinoa mixture. (this should take about half the mixture)

Thin remaining mixture with the reserved juice

and pour around peppers

(if you use mozzarella, sprinkle over peppers) and Bake at 325 degrees for 30-35 minutes.

After cooking, I removed them from the oven and sprinkled grated parmesan on top of individual servings.

My husband and I both enjoyed this meat free alternative to stuffed peppers. Of course my mom's tried and true comforting stuffed peppers (with my healthy tweaks) is still my all time favorite but for those times when I'd

rather not have meat, I will reach for this recipe!

Enjoy!

Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Tea and Tangerine

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 23:59:00 +0000

TANGERINE!

when she dances by,

senoritas stare

and caballeros sigh...

And I've seen toasts to Tangerine ~~

In my photo, tangerine pound cake is keeping company a teacup and brew pot from my friend Jill...

Jill I'm also enjoying the chai tea you gave me ...

and my cup runneth over with gladness!

(p.s...Jill, do you recognize the plate in the pic...

you gave me that about 15 years ago with a giant matching coffee cup!)

I thought I'd share my recipe for

Tangerine Pound Cake ...

I purchased a large bag of tangerine's and I've been enjoying fresh squeezed juice, but thought I'd make a variation of a banana bread recipe I love by substituting tangerines for the banana's....

Here's the easy and fresh recipe:

1/2 cup (one stick) unsalted butter, softened

1 eight ounce pkg. cream cheese, softened (1/3 less fat)

1 2/3 cup sugar

2 eggs

2 1/4 cup flour

1 TBSP. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1 cup half n half ....**

...**(I guess the half n half and the butter make up for the third less fat in the cream cheese ;))

3 Tbs. Tangerine peel

3 Tangerines...

(squeeze the tangerines over a strainer into a cup and set juice aside for later)

Preheat oven to 375...

Grease and flour two loaf pans and set aside...

Cream butter, cream cheese and sugar until fluffy

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition

Add dry ingredients alternately with half 'n half

Stir in Tangerine peel

Pour mixture into pans and bake for 45-50 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

Remove from oven and allow to sit for about ten minutes and then

drizzle reserved tangerine juice over each loaf.

Remove from pans onto wire rack to cool.

Raise a cup and toast to Tangerine!

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Another Year Raced By At Record Speed!

Blurred visions in the rear view mirror...

So many times our focus is on the past and what would have happened if we had done something differently.

Perhaps there were a few near misses along the way?!

Too often we let "What ifs" interfere with what we do today.

But ...

Hopefully there was time to see the beauty all around...

And Quiet Moments To Reflect

Each new year brings with it an opportunity

to begin again….a clean slate…

And turn in a new direction leaving behind what is past...

"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

(Philippians 3: 13-14)

Time To Sail Towards The Fountain...

Of Living Water...

Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."

(John 4:10)

OPEN YOUR HEART AND DRINK

LIFE GIVING WATER…

A FAUCET…

OPENED AND FLOWING FORTH…

"For with you is the fountain of life;

in your light we see light"

(Psalm 36:9)

Looking Onward and Upward...

To See...

His Hand...

Reaching Out To Me...

Right Where I Want To Be!

"See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me."

(Isaiah 49:16)

Enthralled!

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 20:00:00 +0000

I feel compelled to share this with you!

"The innocence of beauty and purity is sadly becoming a distant memory that is fading fast. "God is Enthralled By Your Beauty" is a book that will allow you to fall in love with Almighty God and understand a glimpse of how He sees you even in this fallen world of distorted perception."

"Let us triumphantly rise to the occasion

and finally look into the mirror He sees us in".

(Teresa Criswell)

Recently, Debby from Heavenly Humor held a 'giveaway' and I was the fortunate recipient...the gift was a copy of Teresa Criswell's book "God is Enthralled by your Beauty".

Oh...my...goodness!

I had already read excerpts from Teresa's book on her blogs, Triumphant Victorious Reminders and God Is Enthralled By Your Beauty, but holding this little book in my hands as my eyes feast upon her poignant words has blessed me beyond description. It is really a little book...but it is HUGE in purpose and conveys what every woman (or anyone actually) should know! It is filled with the richness of God's grace, mercy and un-bridled love. Teresa speaks truth as she paints a vivid picture of one girls life. She takes us step by step through a dream about this girl who is tormented by the lie of "unworthiness" and she shows us just how God enters in to expose that lie and show this child how very precious she is in His eyes.

I've been extremely blessed to read and re-read it and to meditate on the truth of God's word through Teresa's amazing gift of communication!

"God desires to deliver us from living the counterfeit and delivers us into the life we were meant to live; the life of authenticity.

The mandate is to reveal His majestic,

glorious beauty!

(Teresa Criswell)

an excerpt from Chapter 3:

"I cried out 'O God, why is she so drawn to this place of secrecy? All she has to do is turn one hundred eighty degrees. If she chose to do this I knew her eyes would be able to see clearly. She would once again see herself through the eyes of the Father."

"I watched with joy as I saw her turn with the King and she finally looked into the beautifully adorned mirror. As she looked she was stunned to see her new image. Her eyes now filled with freedom!"

Freedom is waiting!

...

I'm so grateful for you Teresa and for you Debby!

Debby, I'm also waiting with great expectation for your book! What beautiful, talented women you both are!

I'm delighted and honored to know you and call you friends!

Abundant blessings to you, always!

***(I was not asked to promote Teresa's book, or to mention Debby's up-coming book. I just adore these talented women and wanted to share them with you)***

p.s...the song you hear playing in the background is by Lindsey Kane...another amazing woman!

This song is so appropriately titled "Measure of Beauty". If you listen closely to the lyrics, they go perfectly with the title of Teresa's book! Teresa actually met Lindsey one day by chance...while out on errands...struck up a conversation. When Lindsey learned of Teresa's book, she gave her a few cd's because the lyrics of her song were amazingly fitting! There are no co-incidences! God orchestrated a meeting of these two women and is blessing others through them!

Always Thankful

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 06:28:00 +0000

From hungry deer grazing on acorns...

To Geese taking flight ~

I'm constantly amazed at the beauty within sight!

As the one who creates hills of velvet...

Waterfalls...

And calming waves at sea...

Places Autumn still life...

Adorns the ground with fallen leaves...

Makes me giggle at ducks frollicking...

Hedgeapples on display...

And the sweetness of a stroke across the horse's mane...

All of nature like a painting...

each wonderfully made!

Glowing vibrantly on autumn colors....

As He sets another sun...

And shines His light in a giant harvest moon...

Reminds me of His constant presence...

Unconditional love...

And showers me with grace!

Sets my table with abundance...

As I look into the eyes of each loving face!

I give thanks!

“In everything give thanks;

for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

(1 Thessalonians 5:18)

11/11/11

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 18:50:00 +0000

Eleven

Eleven

Eleven

On the eleventh day

of the eleventh month

at the eleventh hour

The armistice was signed and fighting ceased...

http://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetdayhistory.asp

"Soldiers of the 353rd Infantry near a church at Stenay, Meuse in France, wait for the end of hostilities.

This photo was taken at 10:58 a.m., on November 11, 1918,

two minutes before the armistice ending World War I went into effect"

The armistice was eventually signed into law by congress as a national holiday to commemorate those who sacrifice for us…our veterans! Years later the name of this holiday “Armistice Day” was changed to “Veterans Day”. The appropriate way to salute those who were willing to sacrifice on our behalf because of their patiriotism and love of country.

Veteran's Day proclamation

And at the eleventh hour

a moment of silence was observed

At the eleventh hour on this eleventh day of this eleventh month

I will bow my head

and give thanks!

(but even more than that, I'll give thanks for them each day!)

God Bless our Troops

ALWAYS!

Time for Soup!

noreply@blogger.com (A multi-dimensional life) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 18:07:00 +0000

As we get ready
to...

turn back the clocks,

crank up the heat,

add layers of socks to warm our chilly feet...

we'll bring out the down and the flannel sheets,

And cook up something hot to eat!

This chill in the air is all the more reason,
For good hearty food...

...it's back to soup season!

I love this soup...

image from Fresh Market "Inspirations"

Winter Squash Soup w/Chipotle Peppers & Cream

This recipe just says Comfort to me! Many of you already know that my husband runs the other way when this soup is served...

I j u s t d o n 't u n d e r s t a n d !

Of course, each time I make it, I love to ask him...

"did you ever taste it?"

That goes over ~~well!~~ ;)

As my husband sticks with his sandwich and chips,
I'll enjoy this heartwarming soup and the leftovers!

Oh, since I last made this, I've switched to "gluten free" pasta for my pasta sauce variation of this recipe...I love quinoa pasta -
I like it for its taste, texture, and health benefits...

!! Don't forget to turn back your clocks this week-end !!

They say we should do it at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday...

I've never figured out why!

REALLY....does anyone wait up until 2 a.m.

to change their clocks?!

My husband always changes every clock in the house

right around 6 p.m. on Saturday...

but that "throws me for a loop"...

that's why I make this soup! (wink) ;)

here's the recipe:

Winter Squash Soup w/ Chipotle Peppers & Cream