Visiting

I have many fond childhood memories. And, one of the places I think of often from my childhood, is pictured here. My Aunt Margaret and Uncle Vance lived here with their two children. We spent many evenings visiting. Especially when the weather was permitting. Of course, their kids had kids of there own. When we'd visit; my brother and I would sometimes get to play with their grand kids.
My most favorite thing would be to sit at their long picnic table; it had round sits. It was on the left side of the house looking down the hill. My brother and I would have gingerale in beautifully colored aluminum drinking glasses. I thought the glasses were the neatest thing. I wished we had them at home. For some reason, the gingerale just seemed to taste better in them. Even the cookies tasted great sitting out there. Aunt Margaret and my gram (her sister) would sit out and talk enjoying themselves.

There was so much to see, hear and do there. Aunt Margaret had the most beautiful flowers. The smell was heavenly and my favorite smell was that of the petunias. I remember a gazing ball on a stand, and I loved looking at a small cement (I think bird bath) that looked like a pond with a frog fishing on it. It sat near the barn I believe by a willow tree. That's where I grown to love listening and watching Robins. But, of course, my recollection is from a that child's perspective.
Somethings have changed since we played there years ago. The house used to be white. And, the flower garden has now been fence - to protect it from deer. Apparently they love the flowers too. Though what's nice about it now; it's more like a secret garden, with much to explore. . . .The homestead has changed hands; Aunt Margaret and Uncle Vance are no longer with us. But, their son Herb gives the same love and attention too his home there. He too has fond memories to think of. We, of course, moved away. But living here in Ohio, I sometimes get a chance to visit. And, Herb and I can reminisce over old stories we love.

Its fond memories we hold dear.
From far away and very near.
Remembering loved ones,
Who’ve past on?
With all the visits;
And, it’s childhood fun.
We hold them close for they’re so dear.
Even to this very day.

VB 5-30-08

It's Italian!

After the success I had with my last loaf; I thought I'd try another. This time Italian. This recipe makes two good sized loaves. I used a recipe from "The Fresh Loaf," click the link or go to my recipe blog links on right side of page. http://www.thefreshloaf.com/recipes/italianbread

First punch down. This dough was a pleasure to knead.

After the first raise and punch down, shape into rounds, let rest placing a damp towel over dough.

Shaped and left to rise again. I thought I'd use my old bread pan this time; instead of baking stone.

Just before placing in the oven.

Awesome two beautiful loaves of Italian bread. Inside temp. 200*
Yummy perfecto!
I was thinking sandwiches, but after tasting, I could just eat the bread!
If you like making bread I have another site listed to the right. Enjoy..

Memories

It’s been a few days since my last post. I couldn’t think of anything and nothing was going on around here. I’ve been working on some projects; but, nothing worth mentioning at this time. So I decided I’d go back into one of my journals and share some fond memories with you. Keep in mind it’s pretty much random thoughts. . .

April 23, 2004

I thought I’d try again to get writing. – Excuses we all seem to have them. Some have more then others and some less. But, I guess we still all have them. (Apparently I couldn’t think of writing anything new in my journal either). Ha
Maybe I do spend too much time in the past. It’s like a drug. I keep going back for more; remembering good and bad. Bad things I’d rather not write about today. Only good memories I have.

~ Like ~

Listening to Robins singing at dusk and remembering other nighttime sounds like crickets. As I lay in bed and just before falling asleep.
Like waking up early in the morning (5:30) in Buckley, WA. I’d spend time reading the Word. Writing things down in my journal, like prayers and insights to things God had shown me.

~ What I should still be doing! ~

What sweet little faces I’d see in the morning. I sure miss it! But, I’m so proud of the fine young men they’ve become.
Quiet times; like getting away with Jim to the mountains; though few – very precious to me.

Remembering all my Grams stories; or her get yas and tickles in bed. Silly sayings she’d have like; feeling punk and fair to middling. Junkity. I still don’t know what that means and I try to write them all down as I remember. Sometimes she’d try scaring my hiccups away by jumping out from places around the house. It’s funny stuff. (Photo above is of my greatgramp, and just one of the characters in my grams stories).

I remembering Pap (my granddad) making me my very own igloo when it snowed. I got to help and that was fun. Sometimes I’d go to work with him and get to use the levelers on his high lift. For lunch we’d always take cheese sandwiches with onions and drink tea from a quart jar with lots of sugar and milk. I still do the sandwiches but, tea tastes have changed.

Another thing I absolutely loved was lightening bugs, and you can only fine them in the east. (As far as I know – I guess another good thing about Ohio).

Also when I was a kid I’d hang around with my Uncle Russ. We’d go check the chickens out back and then cow. And then, go watch the chickens so more. I remember one time a hen had diarrhea. Uncle Russ looked at me then the chicken and said, “Do you see that chicken? I don’t like the way it’s shit-n!” Sorry. We’d always finish up are time with a big glass of molasses milk and those banana flavored peanut looking candies. I can’t even stomach them now; but, I could go for a tall glass of molasses milk.

I have so many more wonderful memories. I do hold dear to my heart and think of them often. I feel blessed to remembering them from time to time. It’s fun to share them to.

"Recall it as often as you wish, a happy memory never wears out...."Libbie Fudim
I hope everyone has a happy memory. I’m sure you do and if you can’t recall them make some more.
"Cherish all your happy moments; they make a fine cushion for old age."
Booth Tarkington

Man's Love For Bread

It's been said, "that man can not live by bread alone." In fact Jesus quoted it from Deuteronomy 8:3. Jesus was being tempted in the desert (wilderness) by Satan for 40 days. Satan knowing he was hungry wanted Him to turn stone into bread. And Jesus answered him, saying, "it is written that man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God." Luke 4:4 KJV
There are many translations out there, I picked a few. Bread is mentioned in the Bible: NKJ 346 times in 315 verses, KJV 361 times in 330 verses, NIV 271 times in 250 verses and NAS mentioned bread 316 times in 286 verses. Wow! That's a lot of bread. (I didn't count them myself, it was listed in a Strong's Concordance). It takes me long enough to post. hehe.

If thou tastest a crust of bread, thou tastest all the stars and all the heavens.
Robert Browning, English poet, (1812-1889)

I have to admit I love good bread. I've also been known to bake some awesome loaves a time or too. Today, the recipe I use far surpassed and exceeded my expectations; in the bread department. This bread will tempt any true bread lover and possibly a non-bread lover. That is if there's such a person! Pain De Provence; makes 1 delicious loaf. I got it from The Rustic Loaf site. http://www.thefreshloaf.com/recipes/paindeprovence
You make a poolish (starter) the day before. You also use Herbes de Provence. I used my own mix. The other ingredient that makes this a bit different is Grand Marnier, or one of the like. (Does this make sense?)

I used my baking stone, and with a water in a pan below, makes the crust very rustic.
The smell is awesome from the herbs. Your whole kitchen has this wonderful aroma the entire time it's baking.
And, when it's finally ready to count into. . .Ahhhhhhhhh You just can't get that satisfaction in a store!

Now, this bread might take care of our stomachs. We can't live on that alone.
We all go through deserts, valleys and wildernesses in our lives. We are continually tempted. And, our faith is put to a test. Jesus was tempted far beyond what we could possibly ever comprehend. Yet He sinned not. He relied on God's Word. He wasn't defeated. He's the victor. God gives us, through His Word and fellowship with Him, means to resist temptations. And, the means to fight those battles that ultimately test our faith. I know in my own life, it's been especially hard the past several months. When you don't always see answers to your prayers. But, I know I have to hold on for the battle's already been won. No matter how hard it is.
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7

Below is a favorite; I guess the mood I'm in. And what does it all have to do with bread? Man hungers for spiritual food and He is the bread of Life.

Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
Just as it is written, "FOR YOUR SAKE WE ARE BEING PUT TO DEATH ALL DAY LONG; WE WERE CONSIDERED AS SHEEP TO BE SLAUGHTERED."
But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers,
nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:35-39

The Comforts of Tea

Some people might argue the thought; there's somethings in this world that aren't quite as satisfying, as a nice cup of tea. I've also been told that a cup of tea fixes everything. I'm not so sure about tea fixing everything. But, taking the time to relax, a good cup of tea can be very comforting.

And, what could be nicer than using a cute little tea bag; made of soft cotton muslin. I stitched this up this morning and thought I'd share it with you. I've been using paper pouches you can fill yourself, for at least a year or more.

This is an neat way to recycle (sort of), at least cut down on the expense and paper use. It fills up easily with a your favorite loose tea.

With the draw string closure, all you do is pull it tight. Then wrap at top with string through, as to tie. Then pour your hot water into your favorite cup.
I was so please with it. No sediment or flakes of any kind. I simply let steep and may of dunked the bag up and down a couple times. Perfect.

I then took the bad out as usual and set aside. Depending on how much tea or the kind you maybe using, you might be able to get another cup. My second was as perfect as the first. After I was done. I simply turn it inside out and emptied the bag. Rinsed off and hung to dry (on my window crank). Ready to use next time. If your bag happens to turn a different color it will only add to its charm. Maybe I'll sell them.

And if your so inclined I do have tea through my web portal. www.marketamerica.com/wellcafe

Tea is wealth itself, because there is nothing that cannot be lost,no problem that will not disappear, no burden that will not float away, between the first sip and the last.-The Minister of Leaves

I tried to find some reference to tea use in the Bible. I know there's use of herbs mentioned. It would be interesting to know. If you know of any, let me know. Thanks

I Found It!

Have you ever been hungry for something that you once were used to getting? When we lived in the southwest, we were able to get some of the best and freshest tortillas. Now I've been able to purchase them on occasion. But, quite frankly the quality just isn't there. The cost isn't that great; not to mention all the ingredients that just aren't necessary. So in my quest to find great tortillas that we were once used to; I decided to find a recipe instead. I don't know what made me think that, making such a delicious accompaniment to any bowl of beans, was going to be hard. So I googled and found this recipe on a fellow bloggers site. Its so simple, takes very little oil and hardly any time at all. The pictures show my second batch, made for lunch. First batch I made yesterday. The only changes I made were, 2 Tbsp. less flour (as suggested on flour bag), and I used my kitchenaid with dough hook the second time. They turned out even better. The recipe link is on the Homesick Texan; http://homesicktexan.blogspot.com/2007/03/and-end-to-my-quest-flour-tortillas.html Apparently she was on that same quest now living in NY from Texas. She was just quicker on draw. hehe

Now for me, anything can go with a great tortilla. Today it happened to be a good bowl of pinto beans I made yesterday. Another southwestern favorite. Each time I make beans I tend to make them different, depending on what ingredients I happen to have on hand. I usually start my beans the same. I get a large pot with good lid. I pour in beans, whatever amount I plan to use, into the pot.
I used 2 cups dry pinto. Discard any undesired bean, wash up with clean water, drain. Cover beans with fresh water 1-2 inches above. Bring to a boil. Cover with lid. Turn off the burner, let soak 1 hour. This same the soaking over night step. If you choose. (I use this method for all beans) After an hour, or when you get to it. Drain off water, replace with fresh water or broth, your preference. At this point my ingredients varies. Yesterday I used 1 med. diced onion, 1 carrot diced small, 1/4 cup mild chili powder, small garlic powder to you taste, 2-3 dried De Arbol Chili Pods (as well as powders); available at http://www.sweetfreedomfarm.com/chileprods.html , kosher salt to taste and I threw in small grape tomato's I happened to have. Cook till beans are tender but not mushy. You can click on photos to get a better look, Delicious!

If this post is hard to read. . .I was having trouble with. sorry

The View Through My Window

Each time I look out my window I might see something I hadn’t noticed before. Like a new bird’s nest, a broken branch or maybe even a bloom hidden in the shrubbery. If you were to look out that same window during different seasons, you might see one particular tree looking different at least four times.

This morning as I was looking out my window, it started me thinking of how we view God’s Word. I might have been thinking this also, because of something I recently read on a different site. A young man wrote that Islam was better and that God, “Biblical,” was that of confusion; in response to a young woman’s confusion or misunderstanding of a verse.

It’s interesting to me overall how people view Gods Word. God is not the author of confusion as stated in 1 Corinthians 14: 33; though in defense of the word confusion being elsewhere in the Bible, it’s not talking about the same. This is spiritual growth, growing in the knowledge and wisdom of the Lord. 

“As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming;” Ephesians 4:14 

It is also not referring to us - being wise in our own eyes; as in Romans 12:16. Scripture always remains the same. John tells us that the Word is God. The depth of your understanding may change with your growth and should. We’re told we are no longer to be as children. 

“Brethren do not be children in understanding; however, in malice (evil) be babes, but in understanding be mature” 1Corinthians 14:20. 

We limit our understanding by how much time we spend in the Word.  God’s Word is not to one's own interpretation. Now, maybe I’m getting this wrong being that the verse in 2 Peter 1:20, is talking about prophecy of Scripture. “But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is (a matter) of one’s own interpretation.” The overall chapter is speaking of false teachings.

The bottom line here is seeking to know Him more. Through Him and only through Him do we attain that knowledge and wisdom to understand those hidden mysteries we didn’t always see before? Things will be revealed to you as you spend time with Him.  All things you need to know to grow and as you grow. Somethings maybe left a mystery; you’ll have to trust Him on that.

Remember His Word is always the same. It has the same meaning God intended it to be from the beginning. But as we spend time with Him it has new depth. As you dig into God’s Word; you may see things you haven’t seen before.” Like in Highlights hidden pictures as you look things are revealed.
What are you viewing through your window?

It's Another One

I must be hungry. Have you ever went around wishing you had something good? Something different? You need to try this. I found this recipe in a magazine when we lived in NM. I think and exercise or health type. Keep and open mind. . .

Tuna Burgers w/Horseradish Mayo Burgers. . . .(you may also use salmon instead of tuna)
3 - 6oz cans chunk light tuna in water, drained
1/4 cup Italian style dry bread crumbs
2 Tbsp. mayo (fat free or not)
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp each of salt & pepper
Nonstick cooking spray (or lightly oiled)
4 whole wheat hamburger buns or Kaiser rolls (split)

Preheat grill and broiler. In a large bowl combine, tuna (salmon), bread crumbs, mayo, mustard, salt and pepper. Mix well to combine. Shape mixture into 4 equal patties and transfer to a baking sheet coated with non stick spray. Broil burgers 5 minutes per-side, until light brown on both sides. Transfer burgers to a hot grill and grill both sides 2 minutes. Just to get the marks. I feel this step can be optional. Meanwhile, on to the sauce.
Sauce: combine in small mixing bowl and mix well, 1/2 cup mayo (fat free or non), 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley and 1 Tbsp. horseradish

Arrange burgers on buns and top each burger with horseradish mayo.

Each time I've mad this I've been pleased with the results. I used tuna once and I've been using salmon (Alaskan) ever since. I just happen to prefer it. Also the burgers can be on the delicate side so be careful when turning.
I'll try for a picture..

BoyHowdy!!

As in my yesterday's post, weather wasn't good and certainly not good for any type of grilling. But I had these ribs that needed to be cooked. Also, I didn't just want to make them as normal. Well I found a recipe in the latest (June 08) Martha Stewart magazine; that fit the bill. The link is below.
You make a rub first and refrigerate 2 hrs. - over night. Then you make a sauce and you can adjust the heat (spicy) if you'd like. The recipe is adaptable for grilling or in the oven.
Since the weather wasn't cooperative, the oven filled in great. I used (as suggested) a large baking sheet with sides. I place foil on that and place a cooling rack above that. Baked as directed.
Tonight I'm reheating on the grill. Just because. The oven version was delicious though, didn't have the smoky flavor from grilling.


http://www.marthastewart.com/portal/site/mslo/menuitem.fc77a0dbc44dd1611e3bf410b5900aa0/?vgnextoid=e379ad52ac4a9110VgnVCM1000003d370a0aRCRD&vgnextfmt=default

I Realize I'm in Ohio ~

I realize I'm in Ohio . . . but . . . just how much gloom and doom can one really take? I know that there’s sun above those clouds . . . I’ve seen it! I've seen it mostly flying in from somewhere else. Apparently, this phenomenon (sun) isn’t an uncommon site in other states. The last time I flew, I noticed something just before we made our final decent into Cleveland. I’m sure if you live in this area you know what I’m talking about. There we were, above these beautiful clouds and in the bluest of skies; bright sunlight shinning all around. Then it happened . . . our descent into the darkness of Northeast Ohio. I thought to myself, it’s as if we just descended into the ocean. Into the depths! I wanted to ascend back up into the sky, up above all the dark clouds. Leaving all darkness behind – now that would’ve been awesome! At least it was a nice dream. Sometimes reality can seem more like a nightmare.

Now I’ve been told, at least by one individual, that I have sun deprivation. I disagree. Though I’ve been known to turn on every light in the kitchen and lay on top of my kitchen island, okay, I did that once and to be funny. But you have to realize it was days and days not just a few without sun. Believe you me, I wasn’t the only one that thought she’d loose what mind she had left!
I’ve felt like that again over the past few gloomy days. It always appears to be worse for a person when they’re going through hard times.  Trials. That rough patch, even that bump in the road can seem much bigger. When keeping busy (and there’s always a lot of busy) doesn’t seem to work. This type of day really wears on a person and that certainly has been true for me. It’s especially true, when I know spending more time in God’s Word redirects my focus off the gloom and doom, “problems,” towards Him.

But, what if you don’t even feel like doing that?

~ It can then make it a sad state of affairs. ~

Sometimes trying to remain hopeful while trusting the Lord and in His perfect timing is hard. It’s especially hard when the answers don’t seem to be there, or even like they’re coming at all. Remaining thankful and not losing heart when all doors seem to close. It really becomes the ultimate test of ones faith.

~ Look up beyond the gloomy clouds. The sun is there. And, the Son is everywhere. ~VB

One morning last week I was spending time with the Lord, in His Word. I believe He lead me to read Psalms 42.  David asked why are you in despair, downcast), and then tells himself to hope in the Lord. (No matter what and continue to praise Him). He said this twice. Sometimes we have to tell ourselves more than once. David's soul was thirsting for the living God. He said his tears have been his food.

Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God. Psalm 42:5,11

Reading in verse 4 He said this after others asked "Where is your God?" David responses; These things I remember, as I pour out my soul: how I would go with the throng (a multitude those assembled) and lead them in procession to the house of God with shouts and songs, of praise, a multitude keeping festival.  ESV

We need to remember in trials to do what David did.  Yes, he battled the same thoughts and went through struggles.  He saw bright beautiful skies with big clouds of white and the sun shining bright and yet descended into deep with feeling waves that had gone over him. I have felt this but .  .  .

~ He's where our help comes from. ~

I will lift up my eyes to the mountains;
From where shall my help come?
My help comes from the LORD,
Who made heaven and earth. 

Psalm 121:1-2

I'm hoping this post has helped someone out there going through that rough patch with some inspiration and encouragement.  Sometimes it's just helpful to know you're not the only one. I still know laughter to be some of the best medicine.  In fact my sister and I would call each other up and she'd say it is a nice shade of battleship gray and you'd have to laugh!  And, if I've caused you smile even just a little, maybe this gloomy day wasn't so bad. .

I would have to think on that some. . . :) V

A Happy Memory

Before Cowboy Dave became Famous; preforming at the O'laughlin surprise Birthday bash. With non other then, Pioneer Pepper and the Sunset Pioneers. Cowboy Dave dazzled the audience by cracking a paper whip to the theme song Rawhide. Thus, becoming Famous Cowboy Dave.

Before he became famous...he was just Cowboy Dave...

Some guys never want to grow up..hehe
You can visit Pioneer Pepper and the Sunset Pioneers at: http://www.sunsetpioneers.com/

Still Mother's Day

It's still Mother's Day. And, I wanted to share something I made for Mother's Day breakfast. Yes, I made; and yes, I did make a cake for my Birthday....What can I say I like (love) to cook.

I made Lavender Cream Scones with Devonshire cream. The cream scone recipe is one found on line at - http://www.joyofbaking.com/SconesIntroduction.html . You can find the Devonshire (clotted) cream recipe there as well. I absolutely love Lavender; and I had a package of Culinary Lavender I used in the scones. I put maybe a tablespoon or more. If you try it, I would suggest to your liking. It can be on the strong side. I purchased the Culinary Lavender when I was in Washington. http://www.lostmountainlavender.com/ (This is the place you need to visit if you can).
With the scones; I had fresh organic *strawberries, cantalope and blueberries. I also made hard boiled eggs and served it up; with a cup of fresh coffee. It was delicious. I had to run a plate to my friend Joan. She blessed me yesterday.
Below is another blessing; but, one I found days ago. While I was organizing my sewing room, found this Mother's Day gift. My son Jake made it...I can't even begin to think how old it is. But it was in time for this years Mother's Day. I have many more from all my boys. Each gift is a treasure.

*When purchasing strawberries, try to get organic. Strawberries are at the top of the list for pesticides.

Reasons I Love Mother's Day

The reasons I love Mother's Day;
Have all grown up and moved away.
They are forever, in my heart.
VB 5-11-08




Happy Mother's Day to all you Mom's out there.

Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. . Psalms 127:3 (NAS)

Happy Birthday!

To the years that have gone by....oh so fast. As I'm sitting here, my head is full of wonderful memories. My brother Dave, and I, were born on the same day (May 10th) -- but four years apart. Wow! Shouldn't that have been recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records or Ripley's Believe It Or Not? It's funny, looking at our picture below, we could have been twins; or at least in close running. My brother and I were talking last night about which picture I should post. This isn't it -- sorry Dave. The picture we thought would be great to post is of he and I blowing out birthday candles. Unfortunately I couldn't find it, hopefully I will someday as it's one of my favorites. This picture was taken in April of '63. That is 1963, for any younger visitors -- hee hee. And yes, we did actually have TV. It was black and white -- but that's another story.

My friend Joan, and I, have often spoke of creating happy memories. I have so many tucked away, and I hold them very dear to my heart. I can't imagine what life would've been like growing up without Dave. My Mom told me that I used to think Dave was mine, I think I believe that. We went everywhere together with our trusty dog Torro. Even before Dave started to school, I remember heading home excited about sharing the day. We'd play school in the furnace/laundry room. Another time I remember, we were watching a show on our old Philco TV, sitting there on the ottoman having a few potato chips. Dave would eat his fast -- one after another, I'd eat mine slower, savoring then devouring. I'd get on his case "Eat them like this, slow, one at a time," I'd say! He'd ignore me, just like he does now ;-) . I think I really wanted them to last a long time, or at least untill the show ended.

This picture (above) is our most recent . "Funny" it was also taken in April, but of 2007. We were celebrating Dave's daughter's wedding. I think we've held up pretty good over the years -- for 50 and 46. Now another year older -- yes wiser -- maybe.

Life brings simple pleasures,

To us everyday.

Its up to us;

To make wonderful memories.

Cathy Allen

Let's keep creating happy memories - Happy Birthday...maybe we can celebrate together next year. Lord willing.

I have one last quote I love: My life has a superb cast, but I can't figure out the plot. Ashleigh Brilliant (b.1933)

Let's Talk Cake! Yum

Though I don't bake as much as I used to; I think I'm pretty good at it. It also helps when you've been given an awesome recipe. This is one of the best cakes I've ever had. It's moist and rich - yummy! So in honor of my Birthday tomorrow, I thought I'd make myself a cake and share the recipe with you. The recipe was given to me by Mary Buckley. Now, she could make cakes. However, most would say her speciality was in cheesecakes; I loved every cake she made. And, we'd get a taste of them when we were able to visit. I don't think she'd mind me sharing this recipe with you. "We all miss you Mary."

Apple Nut Cake

2 eggs

2 cups sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

1/2 cup oil

2 cups sifted flour

2 tsp. soda

2 tsp. cinnamon

3/4 tsp.salt

1 cup chopped nuts

4 cups finely chopped apples

Beat together eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Beat in oil until smooth. Sift together dry ingredients and stir into egg mixture. Add nuts and apples; mix well. Pour into greased and floured 9 x 13 pan. Bake 300* for 1 hr. Or till its done. You can test with a tooth pick or cake tester.

*You can also use 2 round cake pans as in picture.

Icing (Lemon Cheese)

1 - 3oz. package cream cheese

2 Tbsp. half and half

1/2 cup butter

4 cups sifted confictioners sugar

1 Tbsp. lemon juice

2 tsp. grated lemon rind

1 tsp. vanilla

dash of salt (1/8 tsp.)

You won't be disappointed making this cake. I've had three birthday cakes that I can really remember having. Number "3" I made today..I really don't get into my birthday that much; I like celebrating others. Enjoy a piece of cake.

*You'll need extra icing for any decorating. The decorating was for fun; and I haven't done any decorating since we moved here; 7 years or so ago. I think my old freind, neighbor and coach from NM wouldn't be to unhappy with the job. Below is a link on youtube.

The Little Rascals "Birthday Blues" part 2 of 2; One of my favorites hope you enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYBH5UxQywk&feature=related

BusyDays

The kiss of the sun for pardon,

The song of the birds for mirth,

One is nearer God's heart in a garden

Than anywhere else on earth.~

Dorothy Frances Gurney, "Garden Thoughts"

I took these pictures today. The lighting was awful; so you really can't see the vivid color. Beautiful shades of greens and the Hawthornes blooms. Beautiful. I took them nonetheless, if for no other reason then to remind me just how very busy I was. We have a number of beds around our house; this truly is my only flower bed. It had been neglected for a couple years and boy what a job! I won't neglect it again. It's taken me a couple days or so of weeding. The conditions to do so were perfect. The soil was still a bet damp and easy to work with. The temperature outside was awesome. I have some more left to do but not to much. Thank the Lord.
Gardening is a matter of your enthusiasm holding up until your back gets used to it. ~Author Unknown
Last year it was looking pretty pathetic, so much so, that my young friend Monica asked, "What kind of garden is this anyway?" then ask - "Fairy?" I had to tell her is was a whatever garden! he he - So needless to say I'm very pleased with how it is at the moment.
No two gardens are the same. No two days are the same in one garden. ~Hugh Johnson
I enjoyed being out there even with the hard work. My back is killing me to no end. (out of shape) But to feel the warmth of the sun and cool breeze, as well as hear the beautiful song birds - it was all worth it. It gave me time to myself and to the Lord. You can bury a lot of troubles digging in the dirt. ~Author Unknown
I'll post more pictures later and hopefully with sunnier skies and flowers blooming.
I think that if ever a mortal heard the voice of God it would be in a garden at the cool of the day. ~F. Frankfort Moore, A Garden of Peace

For some good gardening tips check out; Up Beet Gardener .

Finished Finally!! Yes..

It's awesome when you finish something. That sense of accomplishment. No matter how big or small the job might be. Finished is awesome. So here it is: Early Pincushion designed by Sue Spargo.




Joan and I filled the pincushions with a mixture of play sand and lavender flowers. So each time you use it (and sharpen your pins) the smell is heavenly. What a pretty reward. I'm sorry it took us so long. But timing is everything. And, the plan is to possibly make more or something of a similar nature.
It's so much fun getting together with friends; working on projects and visiting. We can get so wrapped up in our daily life that we forget the importance of fellowship. When getting together you are refreshed,forgetting your cares. You can help each other and laugh a lot. Whether its with a friend or a group; plan a project get together. You don't even have to work on the same thing - anything you'd like is fine. Just get together.

Ecc 4:10
If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! NIV
Pro 17:17
A friend loves at all times, NIV

Previous Post~

The Beginning of a Brand New Week

The past couple days it rained. And many of us take that time doing things indoors. So being stuck in - isn't so bad. Some enjoy curling up with a good book or watching movies. Taking time for a much needed rest. Its also hard on some; and they can't rest at all. I know many who are having a rough time right now. And, they don't see the light at the end of the tunnel they're traveling through. Its there. We all have bad days. We also have good ones. If we're honest; a lot of us even have more good ones then we think.

The other day my husband said, "Things are going to work out. The light is at the end of the tunnel." I informed him that, "Yeah, I see that light. But the train already ran me over and I'm just trying to scrape myself off the tracks!" Of course we did laugh at that. But honestly sometimes that's how I feel. Do you?

In the mornings I like sitting quietly, reading, praying and resting. The resting part does sound funny since I just woke up. But, its waking up..I can't explain; and its possible you may understand. (Not that I can't move fast if I have too) Anyway, I've been reading in Corrie Ten Booms book; Each New Day. Its a daily devotional. So in light of the fact this is the beginning of a brand new week, Sunday, I thought I'd share this with you.

April 27 Redeem Even Emotions.

Do you ask "Is Jesus able" I can say, Yes, and you have the victory through Him." Don't believe what your emotions tell you. Believe what God's Word tells you. Your emotions must be redeemed by Jesus.

Coward and wayward and weak,

I change with the changing sky.

Today so eager and brave,

Tomorrow not willing to try.

But he never gives in, And we two will win.

Jesus and I.

THE VICTORY BELONGS TO THE LORD..Proverbs 21:31 RSV

Sometimes its hard to see our victories. But we know that they are there. (Be thankful for Gods Word).

You might reconize these lyrics from and old song..

My hope is built on nothing less

Than Jesus' blood and rightousness;

I dare not trust the sweetest frame,

But wholly lean on Jesus' Name.

On Christ the solid rock I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

Edward Mote

Continue to place your hopes in Him who truly cares for you..The photo at the top of the page was taken in Arizona on state hwy 191. I love the open spaces, its a happy place for me..

Almost Finished

It's was rainy today. Perfect for projects or being just lazy. Projects it is! My Friend Joan came over to work on our Folk-art pincushions. As in pervious post; we purchased a kit by Sue Spargo at an awesome quilting shop (now closed). http://www.suespargo.com/patterns.html#pincushion All that's left, is filling it with sand sand and stitching it shut. Awesome.
Our minds are already speed thinking of other things we can do with wools.
I'll be posting the finished beauties soon.

National Day of Prayer

Pray without ceasing; 1 Thessalonians 5:17

The Visit

Its wonderful to get visits from those you love. Our son Mat was blessed to get the leave; and that in turn was a blessing to us. Things worked out perfect. It's his girlfriend's, (Dannielle) senior year at Cedarville College, and as part of one of her classes she selected, directed and stared in a play called "Kindertransport." It tells the heart-wrenching story of a Jewish mother who sends her 9-year-old daughter "Eva"on a train to England in order to save her from the Nazis. I think it was written by Diane Samuels. "Kindertransport" was inspired by the real-life evacuation of 10,000 Jewish children from prewar Nazi Germany and their subsequent placement in English foster homes. Dannielle played Eva. She had to speak in German - English with all the accents. From 9 years old to teen. Mat said it was excellent. My husband and I weren't able to attend the play, but we loved seeing the pictures of Dannielle and Mat which were taken after the show.

Visits don't always seem long enough, but I love whatever I'm able to get. Even for just a little while we are happy. Below are 2 link of interest.

Link to brief history: http://www.kindertransport.org/history.html
And out on DVD:http://www2.warnerbros.com/intothearmsofstrangers/