what speaks to my heart

Bravenet Problems???

2012-02-15T14:01:00.001-06:00

Bogart, stopped by today and tried to post a comment on your anniversary post. The system would not take my comment. Then I tried to post on the tag board and the system kept telling me my url was invalid. Don't know what is up with Bravenet but wanted you to know. Thanks for the visit. Hope you have a great anniversary and may God Bless you with many, many more.

Reviewer11, I am on my way over to your blog in just a minute. If you do not find a comment from me today, it must be for the same reason. Anyway, just wanted to say "Hi" and say thanks for the visits.

P.S. Ladies, I just submitted a Support Tag for both of your blogs. Hope it helps.

God Bless!

Valentine Wishes

2012-02-14T11:54:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

God Bless!

You Raise Me Up

2012-02-12T13:20:00.002-06:00

My sister-in-law posted this video yesterday on her FB page. It was really awesome and the message is very inspiring and I wanted to share it.

Before you play the video, be sure to turn the volume off on my music player that is located at the bottom of the page. Hope you enjoy it too!

God Bless!

GodVine Message

2012-02-10T15:36:00.000-06:00

I have my homepage set up with a gadget called "Reminders from God" and Facebook has one called "GodVine". Well today on FB, I read the following message and knew I had to share it. This is from Godvine:

God, please be my guide.
Fill me, lead me, and mold me.
Love me, use me, and hold me.
Please be with me always. ♥

Hope you like it too.

God Bless!

Supplements, Dr. Oz-Follow-up

2012-01-28T11:19:00.000-06:00

I don't remember which ones he showed but think they were all made out of the USA. One package had no details on it as to the manufacture and was written in oriental language.

I know Dr. Oz has an email section on his site. Leave a message requesting more details.

Sorry, I can't be of more help. I would just be careful and check where everything you buy to ingest comes from. I try very hard not to buy any foods from China, etc. Their rules and regs are so different from ours and it makes me wonder how close the foods are inspected.

Have a great weekend.

God Bless!

Supplements, Dr. Oz & More

2012-01-19T11:31:00.000-06:00

I've watched the Dr. Oz show off and on over the years but recently started to watch every day and boy am I glad! I've been recording the programs and then watching when I have my coffee in the mornings, which makes it more convenient for me.

In the past few weeks the shows have been very intresting and a big learning experience. Jennifer Hudson recently was on. She hasa terrific bubbly personality. The show was very informative since I am trying to loose weight. However, I will say I think Weight Watchers is a bit pricy to join and buy their literatrure but do like the concept and support they have to offer.

Dr. Oz covered a program about what they have recently found in orange juice that all of us buy from the grocery store. Are you ready for this? Some of our orange juice is contaminated with fertilizer. Not healthy!

Today, I watched the program about supplements and OMG was that a major eye opener! If ANYONE is using supplements in an effort to be healthy, lose weight or get a boost of energy, then please check out Dr. Oz for more information.

He had a group of supplements privately tested. The testing showed that some contained prescription antibiotics and other ingredients that have been banned in the U.S. because of major health problems.

I was completely shocked at what these items contained and they are being sold over the counter all over the U.S. as being healthy for us. Not only do we adults buy them but our kids can too as well. I have seen some of these items in the stores even in my small town. This stuff is dangerous and could be deadly to some. Not good for any of us.

Please take the time to check this out for yourself by going to the Dr. Oz site for more information.

Hope everyone has a really great day!

God Bless!

Kallie's Home

2012-01-11T15:24:00.000-06:00

Kallie came home this morning and is doing fine. She wandered around the house for about an hour, checked out the food dish a couple of times, got a drink and visited the litterbox. So, I guess that means she feels at home. She finally settled down and is sleeping now. I did NOT have her declawed. Since she got outside by accident, I thought it might be best to leave her with some means of defending herself, if needed. Besides, she is half the weight of the cat and a third of the weight and size of the dog, so this gives her something that will make things a bit more "even".

God Bless!

Decorah Eagles Cam

2012-01-10T14:45:00.000-06:00

The eagles are on the nest again this winter. Hub and I had so much fun watching the parents and their 3 eaglets last year. This is a fantastic way to see how eagles lay their eggs and watch the young grow and leave the nest. The site is in Deocrah, Iowa near the fish hatchery. We hope you will enjoy it as much as we do. Here is the link to the live broadcast:

Decorah Eagles

God Bless!

Holidays Are Over

2012-01-04T11:17:00.000-06:00

Well now that the holidays are over and life is settling back down to normalcy, I can't help but wonder what 2012 will bring. I certainly hope it is a good year for all!

The transport company picked up my father-in-laws Escape yesterday and it is on its long journey from Colorado to Iowa. It should arrive here before January 11th. My husband is really excited about getting the car and is looking forward to having a 4x4 again. My sister-in-law took lots of pictures before it was loaded. Here's a picture of it on the transport truck, its the one on the lower level:

I'm not one to do New Year's Resolutions but have vowed this year to "DROP" the weight. Since I quit smoking I have added about 25-30 pounds. I know that is not really an outlandish amount but for me, it is! I am very petite and small boned so the extra pounds have added 2 full clothing sizes! We moved the treadmill to the back porch and for two days in a row, I have gotten on for 20 minutes each time. I can "FEEL" the pounds to walking away!! I hope to do this at least 4 days a week. Maybe by spring I will be back to my old weight of 115. That would be GREAT!

We took down the tree and outdoor lights on New Years Eve. The weather was decent, not too cold and little wind. Don't know how it happened but Kallie managed to get stuck between the inside door and storm door for about 15 minutes. My husband opened the storm door to come in and she took off. She got off the porch and gave us a big scare for a few minutes! She was laying on the ground behind one of the shrubs when I found her and grabbed her. She is not hurt but now steers clear of the doors. Thank Goodness! Needless to say we are really very careful now about where she is when we open doors. This could have been a real nightmare but thank goodness it wasn't!

I ordered a Kindle Fire as one of my Christmas presents and am still waiting for it to come in. According to tracking it is in Kansas City now. Really looking forward to getting it. I had ordered the Nook Color and liked it but was not happy that the only place I could get things from was Barnes and Noble. So, I sent it back and ordered the Kindle.

The weather has been weird so far this winter. We have had mild days in the mid 30's to high 40's which is unusual for Iowa. We've only had a dusting of snow so far. My bones are telling me, just wait, it is on its way!

That's it for now. Have a great day!

God Bless!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T11:29:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year to Everyone! I pray that 2012 is a good year for all. My wish is for everyone to have a job, financial markets improve, no more sickness, countries quit fighting, people stop hurting and killing each other, and for the world to be filled with compassion, peace, harmony and love in its fellow human being and for all of God's creatures!

God Bless!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T15:15:00.000-06:00

From our house to yours,

Wishing everyone a safe and very Merry Christmas

and

Remembering "The Reason for the Season".

God Bless!

A Short Note

2011-12-12T14:45:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that we are doing okay. Kallie has had her final shots and is now ready to get registered with the city. She is now at 5 pounds and has free reign of the house during the day. Last night she was put in her cage because at a 11pm she thought it was play time and that was not going to fly! She chases Lil Bit to no end and the two still do a lot of hissing and batting at each other. Have really started to watch them as it looks like they are biting each other in the throat region so I try to keep the squirt bottle handy in case it gets out of control. So far it has been okay.

We put the tree up on the back porch. It looks cute with simple stars and doves on it this year. Very plain but cute. We are ready for gifts to arrive from the family.

I still have to get a gift for my dad. No clue what to get but need to get it done. So will tackle that and maybe the grocery store tomorrow.

It was pretty cold over the weekend so we did not do much. Watch Christmas movies which I love to do and went for a drive. Stopped and picked up lunch and went home.

Things are getting back to normal again. Sunday's are still difficult but managing.

Bogey & Reviewer11-thanks so much for the comments and kind words. They have meant alot!

Well, hope everyone has a really great week!

God Bless!

This and That

2011-11-30T13:19:00.000-06:00

Decided to take the day and just putter on the computer. Posted a couple of recipes and 6 new Christmas graphics. I have lots of Christmas clip art and hope to get much more online over the next couple of weeks.

Still having some problem with what to buy for gifts this year. Still have my folks, daughter and my husband's sister and her family to buy for but nothing has jumped out at me, yet!

Yesterday, I made two batches of Peppermint Bark to send as gifts. Turned out pretty good but am going to try to get it a little bit thinner next time.

I have been helping a lady with her family history and still need to print a few more census records and then it gets mailed.

My neighbor lady said that they were getting divorced. Told her that I was sorry to hear that and it was a cruddy time to go through it. Also told her to look at it as a "new beginning". Hope she does. She did say that they were going to sell their house. This is the property to my north where they haven't taken care of things. My husband and I are thinking about buying it if the price is right, which it sounds like it is. We will clean up the house and split the back yard up so that we have more space. We have someone in mind to rent it but have not spoke to anyone else about it. Maybe level the backyard so that my flower beds don't flood every heavy rain we get. Everything is still in the thinking stage but it would be nice to control what happens along the property line!

God Bless!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T13:38:00.000-06:00

God Bless!

Life Settling Down Again

2011-11-21T13:05:00.001-06:00

We are doing okay and things are slowly getting back to some normalcy. My husband got home Thursday and he was really tired. They drove 2800 miles round trip and stayed for the funeral and were back home in 5 1/2 days. Long trip.

My husband went back to work this morning. We spent a quiet weekend resting and watching movies. Neither of us really wanted to do anything. We went for a short drive around the country roads just to get out of the house. He has a short week at work because of the holiday weekend.

Kallie was given a clean bill of health last week and as of Friday, she has free run of the house, except at night. She is a little terror. She refuses to leave Lil Bit alone and there is constant hissing and growling from her. I know that Kallie just wants to play but Lil Bit wants nothing to do with it, yet. Kallie gets along fine with Bear and that is the one I thought would be the problem. Go figure!

Thanks for all the prayers and thoughts. They meant alot to both of us.

Hope everyone has a good week.

God Bless!

Condolences and Messages

2011-11-07T09:14:00.000-06:00

Just want to say "Thanks" for all the condolences about my father-in-laws recent passing. The messages and prayers are greatly appreciated.

Thank you Reviewer11 for this beautiful message which I wanted to share.

God Bless!

Dad's Passed

2011-11-05T12:42:00.000-05:00

It is with deepest sorrow that God has called my father-in-law home today. May he rest in peace!

Thank you all for your prayers.

God Bless..

Dad Not Good

2011-11-03T09:21:00.000-05:00

We got a call about 3 this morning with the news that dad was not good and was not expected to make it and it is just a matter of time. My sister-in-law is on her way to Denver now and am sure the hospital will talk to her about his condition and arrangements. My heart goes out to her cause she will only have her 16 year old son with her for support.

Very sad time..

God Bless--

Surgery Done

2011-11-02T10:45:00.000-05:00

Surgery is over and dad did very well. They are going to do more tests including the other leg and will know more about that later. But, for now he has made it through the surgery. Thank God!

God Bless!

Surgery Today

2011-11-02T10:26:00.001-05:00

Thanks for the prayers, they are greatly appreciated!

Dad is in surgery right now to remove the leg just above the knee. There is talk now that there might be another clot in the other leg. No confirmation on that. It will be several hours before we know anything.

Ran a couple of errands just after 7 this morning and while I was out, I passed the local Therapist office and thought maybe they could help answer some of my questions. Ray, the owner, said that we have been dealt a very tough hand. He was really nice and offered some suggestions on how to find out more details but did say that dad will be needing help for "months". He said that since everyone is so far away that none of us could do much except "wait and see" for now. Will post more as I know it.

Please add dad to your prayers. Thanks.

God Bless!

Father-in-law Hospitalized

2011-11-01T13:49:00.001-05:00

My father-in-law was taken to the emergency room early yesterday morning. He woke up with a pain in his leg behind the knee. As he got dressed, the pain kept increasing. He called my sister-in-law and her husband took dad to the ER in Durango.

In an effort to reduce the clot and blockage, the hospital administered strong blood thinners which has also left traces of blood in the brain. All efforts were stopped and he was Life Flighted to St. Anthony's Hospital in Denver late yesterday afternoon.

As of this morning, he is sedated and on a ventilator and we were waiting for a neurologist to see him. The leg with the blockage is cold and no blood flow can be heard so more than likely he will lose the leg.

Dad being in Denver is really difficult for my husband and his sister. His sister lives over an 8 hour drive from her home and we are about 800 miles away from the hospital. Both my husband and his sister have little or no time available to miss work and not knowing what or when the doctor's are going to do anything, makes planning difficult. AND, to make matters worse, my sister-in-law is under a winter storm watch and has to drive thru 10,000 foot elevation mountains!

Please say a prayer for my father-in-law. Thanks!

God Bless!

Riddle

2011-10-31T13:07:00.000-05:00

I saw this in a magazine recently and was really surprised at the answer.

"Which fast-food pick has fewer calories: a small hot-fudge sundae OR a 10 ounce chocolate shake?"

Answer: The sundae-only has 330 calories and the shake has 580.

Next time you are craving something sweet, go for the sundae!

God Bless!

Yard Sale, Parents

2011-10-31T13:03:00.001-05:00

We had a beautiful weekend in sourthern Iowa while snow fell in the New England states. Wow what crazy weather!

Yard sale went GREAT! We made good money which will come in handy to payoff a credit card bill. Hooray, that's 2 I've paid off. Have one to go and then we are debt free except the house.

Whoops, spoke to soon. Just had bad news about my father-in-law. As I write this, he is in having a cath tube put in an artery from the groin to just behind the knee to remove an aneurysm with a clot in it. The doctors are hoping that they can remove it. If not, it could mean amputation of the foot since no blood is flowing to the lower leg now. Very serious and could be fatal. I pray that this can be fixed without the amputation. Have already spoke to my husband and just don't know what he will want to do in the coming days. He has less than a week of vacation and taking unpaid time off is difficult. His employer wants family leave papers filled out by doctors which is a pain to ask them to do. Not counting getting plane tickets on short notice is major dollars of which we have little.

Spoke to my mom yesterday and she has macular degeneration in both eyes. One eye is almost gone and the other is much better. The specialist has already given her a shot in the good eye which will prevent that one from getting worse and she gets a shot in the bad eye today. From what I have read, it means that she will not recover from the damage already done to the bad eye. This is sad cause now it is almost immpossible for her to read.

Needless to say, news today is not the best. Just praying that the God will watch over everyone and improve things. Will wait and see.

Have two nice days this week and then we get rain on Wednesday and Thursday. Not sure how much but will be much cooler and gloomier.

Hope everyone has a good week and watch out for "trick or treaters" tonight.

God Bless!

Yard Sale

2011-10-25T15:33:00.001-05:00

Thanks everyone for the get well wishes! Still have a bit of the cough but feeling much better. My hub usually doesn't get sick but he has it now! Hope he gets over it sooner than I did.

Kallie is doing great and is putting some weight on. She still is too small to let run with the other critters. Maybe by Thanksgiving she will weigh enough and by then she will have gotten her second shot.

We are having a yard sale this Saturday and hope it is a good one. I know it is late in the season but there is always time for one more before the snow flies!

Hope everyone is checking out my other sites for the great Halloween clip art and new recipes I've posted!

Have a great rest of the week!

God Bless!

Sick With A Cold

2011-10-20T10:24:00.000-05:00

Sorry that I haven't posted anything new in a few days. I have been sick with a really nasty cold since last Sunday and just haven't felt well. I have checked email and comments but that's about it. Head is still swimming and still very tired alot but hope to be feeling back to normal by the weekend.

God Bless!

Happy Friday

2011-10-14T11:25:00.001-05:00

I wanted to say "Thank You" for all the prayers and condolences from everyone. They were greatly appreciated.

Kallie is doing really great and has, at last, been putting weight on. Had to figure a way for her to have safe play time and think I found the perfect thing. It is called a Doggie Dorm but works great for her. It is all soft sided and gives her a 360 degree view to the other critters and they to her. Only disadvantage is that it is collapsible and I have to make sure the older cat doesn't jump on the top which I'm sure would make it collapse. Here's a photo:

Today is pretty cool and very breezy. One of the metal chairs on the front porch fell over and I thought the older cat was going to hang from the ceiling. She has calmed down now and is eating her lunch.

I've posted on the other two blogs several new recipes and more Halloween clip art. Hope you find something of interest.

Have a great day and God Bless!

My Neighbor, Betty Moore

2011-10-07T13:57:00.001-05:00

Today, I am deeply saddened by the death of my neighbor, Betty Moore, who died in her home early yesterday morning. Betty was about 65 years old and very close to my age.

I met Betty ten years ago when we moved into the house across the street from her. She was a vibrant and fun loving person and could always make you smile. As far as I know she had three children of which two survive and I believe she has 4 grandchildren. Her youngest son is in the Marines and mine is in the Navy, so this gave us more in common. Betty liked to travel and read true crime novels and had a large group of friends that she enjoyed spending time with.

May God Bless her and may He give peace and comfort to her family.

My husband and I will miss our neighbor and friend and feel Blessed to have known her!

Kitten's Name and Update

2011-09-30T07:51:00.002-05:00

Drum roll please--the kitten's name is Kallie!

She has been doing very well since Tuesday's surgery and she is starting to fill out. Yesterday, she was introduced to canned cat food. Had to hand feed her but this morning she went right to the dish. Hip-Hip-Hooray!!

She has a fabric toy mouse to play with and she bats it around in her cage. Play time is restricted to about ten minute intervals since she still has stitches that need to heal but think she is well on her way.

Thanks everyone for all the prayers! This little jewel really needed them!

I am getting low on the supplement food the vet sent home. The local vet office has a different product and it is almost 2.00 less. I want to research the product and see what the difference is between the two before I buy locally. Still may make a 43 mile trip today.

Gotta go, small meows are calling!

Have a great weekend everyone and "thanks" for the prayers.

God Bless!

Update on Kitten

2011-09-27T14:08:00.001-05:00

Our kitten has made it through surgery and is doing well. Per the vet "barring no complications" she should be able to come home tomorrow afternoon but may have to have another surgery down the road.

The vet made it a point to tell me that the kitten was not out of the woods yet but felt comfortable with the way surgery went and felt the kitten would be okay.

Bogart, we had already decided to keep her regardless of the outcome of surgery. If all had not gone well, we still would have brought her back home and put her next to Lucky in the flowerbed.

As for names, we have only come up with Peanut and Sweetie so far, and neither is "just right".

Any suggestions for a name will be appreciated. Thank you all for the prayers and well wishes!

God Bless!

Need Prayers Today!

2011-09-27T09:04:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday, my husband heard this faint meowing while he was refilling the bird feeder. He looked around and didn't see anything so turned and headed for the garage. He heard the crying again and looked again, this time across the street. Here come this little, itty, bitty kitten flopping across the road. The kitten followed him into the backyard, up the deck and to the back door, all the while, crying.

We got the big dog cage out of storage and brought her inside. Gave her some milk and called my sister-in-law, who used to be a vet tech, for advice. After talking to her, I headed for the farm store for KMR which is Kitten Milk Replacement. Put a small flower pot saucer with litter, made a bed from a blanket throw and put a stuffed toy in the cage with warm milk and the kitten. I fed this little thing 2 tablespoons about every 4 hours. She had some fleas, a runny nose and a matted eye. Got the nose and eye cleaned up but did not want to bathe her for fear she would get too cold.

Here's a picture I took Sunday.

We determined that it is a little girl. She is very alert and curious and loves to be held! She doesn't cry much and sleeps alot. Her hind legs are very wobbly and I got to looking at her belly and noticed she has a bulge in the upper thigh area. You can see it in the next photo.

Yesterday, I called my vet. The message on the answering machine was that as of Sept. 2nd, she was closed, with a couple seconds delay before she said, temporarily. I figured no big deal, I'd call the emergency number. Got her voice mail which said she was unavailable and to leave a message and she would call back as soon as possible. I waited two hours with no call back. Long story short, the neighbor lady called a friend who gave me the name of another vet. My vet never called back and she has lost my business!

Took the kitten in early yesterday afternoon to the new vet. Vet said she is about 8 weeks old which is good, cause I thought she was less than 6. My sister-in-law thought the bulge might be a hernia. It is, kinda. A hernia is usually a small hole where a tiny part of the intestines fall thru. This is a 1-1 1/2" tear and all the intestines have fallen through. The vet said the tear doesn't just happen and asked if this is how we found her and then said that she thought the kitten was tossed.

Anyway, the vet was off today but said she would come in this morning to do the surgery. The outcome is all dependant on how much muscle there is to stitch together. If there is not enough muscle, the kitten will not be able to survive and will have to be put to sleep. The outcome can go either way. The vet would not venture any guess until she got inside. So, I won't hear anything for a few more hours.

Everyone, please say a prayer for this little kitten. I have had tears in my eyes since coming home yesterday without her. The kitten's mellow behaviour and love despite all she has already been thru reminds me so much of my old friend (dog) who died several years ago. Please pray that she makes it through this surgery and grows up to be a happy, healthy kitten.

Thanks and God Bless!

Educational Videos for kids

2011-09-23T15:50:00.001-05:00

Recently I was watching a television program and saw an interview with a man named Salman Khan. I found his ideas on school education very interesting and wanted to share this with all of you.

Mr. Khan started the Khan Academy whose goal is to provide a free world-class education to anyone anywhere. His site has over 2400 videos in the subjects of math, science, humanities and test preparation that are available for free! For any child struggling in one of these subjects, his videos are detailed how to instructions. Although his videos are geared for K-12 grades, they could also be helpful to adults returning to college later in life.

He also has videos posted on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/user/khanacademy?blend=5&ob=4#p/p I don't know if these are duplicates of those on his web site.

I hope you will find his site helpful to you and your child's education.

God Bless!

All My Projects

2011-09-17T14:26:00.001-05:00

Okay, I've done it again. I've been on this cleaning and clearing out "stuff" kick for several months. I'm so tired of all the accumulated "stuff" from over 15 years that just seems to grow on it's own.

First, it was the family history and old photographs. Then it was 100's of clip art that I have saved for eons and is taking sooo much space on my computer. Now, it is all the loose pieces of paper, cards and magazine clippings of recipes and important tips and suggestions!

So, I've started another blog for just the recipes! Yup, another one and think this makes number 5 with this site!

Here's a list of the other sites with links to each:

Recipes From My Nest-my recipe collection

Vintage Cottage-my clip art collection

My Family Tree

My Family History Blog

The family tree has over 8,800 names in it so far. My dad's poetry is listed along with alot of old family photos. Also, there are lists of old medical and legal terms along with basic genealogy terms in addition to Native American biography summaries posted on the site.

The Vintage Cottage contains a variety of royalty free graphics that can be snagged and used on your blogs or for craft projects. The collection is being added to each week and I hope to start adding new clips on a daily basis.

Finally, Recipes From My Nest , the newest baby, will contain all the loose, index card recipes that I have collected for over 40 years. In addition to the normal cookies, cakes, etc., there will be Russian and Mexican foods too along with recipes for animals and beauty items. I seldom make the Russian foods but often make the Mexican foods usually on a weekly basis.

I am finding that I love designing the blogs and am starting to enjoy the writing aspect of it too. Not sure how well I do either of these but am having fun with it anyway.

If you snag a recipe or some clip art, let me know what you think. And, if you find a connection to the family, be sure to let me know too.

I hope you enjoy the sites and look forward to reading your comments. Have a great weekend!

God Bless!

Very Cool Rainy Day

2011-09-16T17:57:00.001-05:00

Woke up to a light drizzle this morning and very cool temps and it has been that way all day. Left early to go to the store for groceries and the feed store for dog food. Stopped to visit a friend for a short time and then came home. Did two loads of laundry, made lunch and feed the dog. Called my parents to see how they were doing. Then, I got on the computer.

I'm posting my collection of royalty free clip art on Vintage Cottage blog and this week, I also started Recipes From My Nest blog for my recipe collection. I'd love for you to check them both out and let me know what you think. Links are also on the right side of this page.

All for now. Have a great weekend everyone.

God Bless!

Mood Pick-Me Ups

2011-09-13T17:32:00.001-05:00

I'm crazy for things that will elevate my mood either in a more upbeat manner or if I'm feeling stressed a more calming way. They say that colors can have an impact on our moods, behavior and energy. Color is divided into warm or cool. Cool colors are relaxing, calming such as blue, green and violet; warm colors are energetic and active such as red, orange and yellow

I read an article where two designers suggested using a warm red for a living room to create a cozy area that would feel grounded. They recommended a yellow-orange fruit hue such as an apricot or peach. Now for the kitchen they suggested a bright, cheerful sunflower color. Achild's room you should consider a vibrant shade of green helps to encourage creativity and imagination. A bathroom should be an aqua because it reminds us of the waters of the tropics which provides a soothing retreat from daily stress. The master bedroom should be an area that is tranquil and promotes a good nights sleep. The color should be in the purple to blues range of nightfall.

Scent can have the same effect. To feel energized smell peppermint or orange, to feel calm, smell lavender. Yankee Candle Company has a candle called Tahitian Tiare Flower votive that is wonderful. I read an article in a magazine that says it is supposed to calm your mind. Give it a try!

God Bless!

Remembering Sept. 11th, Ten Years Later

2011-09-11T16:12:00.001-05:00

I watched the specials this morning on the 9-11 attack and remember the day very well. We lived in Arizona and had just gotten up and was drinking my morning coffee. I turned on the television and switched to the morning news. I sat, as millions did in total disbelief, watching one plane hit the tower and thinking what a tragic accident and how in the world did it happen. Then the second plane hit and I KNEW...we were under attack. I called my husband at work and told him what was on the news. While we were on the phone, another plane hit the Pentagon and then the final plane went down in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

So many lives lost...so many lives changed forever. Ten years later and my feelings of disbelief and enormous sorrow overwhelm me as I still sat with tears streaming down my face.

I ran across this video on Facebook the other day and it is truly awesome. A very fitting tribute to all the families and friends of the victims of September 11, 2001.

God Bless all those who are struggling today with a loss and God give them strength, peace of mind, heart and soul to get through their sorrow.

A Day In The Neighborhood

2011-09-07T17:31:00.002-05:00

Hope everyone had a great weekend. My husband had just finished working a 50 hour work week so he was pretty zapped and I did not feel very good, so we just watched movies and puttered all weekend.

The weather has become just beautiful. The days are in the 70's and nights are in the low 60's. Fantastic sleeping weather and garden weather! Beautimous!!!!!

Last night, my neighbor was taken to the hospital by her son. She has been pretty sick off and on since before June with flu like symptoms, couldn't eat and keep it down. She refused to go to the doctor and kept saying that it was nothing but a bug. I saw that she was home today and went over to see how she was. She looked much thinner but feeling better. Apparently, she was severely anemic and dehydrated and was given several IV's last night. We are about the same age and she has always been an "on the go" type person and has been home bound pretty much the past couple of months. I am so relieved that she is feeling better and hope she continues too.

Bogart-here's my canning instructions for tomatoes:

Wash the jars and rims in hot sudsy water, rinse well.
Bring a big pot of water to a boil.
Wash tomatoes and remove the core.
I wear rubber gloves for the next step.
Drop tomatoes in boiling water and leave for about 2-5 minutes or until the skins start to split.
Remove skins and throw away.
Place skinned tomatoes in a stock pot and squish into bite size chunks.
Put pan on stove and bring to rolling boil-let tomatoes boil for about 5 minutes.
Bring 2 pans of water to boil-one for the jars and one for the seals.

Carefully drop clean jars in boiling water and drop seals in other pan of water. Remove and drain jar, laddle tomatoes into jar and run a knife in center to remove air bubbles, fill to within 1/2" of top, wipe top edge with a clean damp cloth, place seal on top of jar and screw ring on jar. Add water to pans as needed but bring it back to a boil. As jars cool, you will hear the "ping" of the jar sealing. Tighten rings after jar cools down. Let jars cool completely, then put away.

It probably takes me about 2-3 hours from start to finish, which means everything is washed and put away, to do a batch of tomatoes. I always run out of my tomatoes before spring. I used to do bushels of tomatoes over Labor Day weekend with my daughter when she was younger. It was a lot of work but worth it!

I know that a "water bath" is recommended but I have never used it for tomatoes. I was taught this method some 40 years ago and have never had a problem. I do taste test the tomatoes when I open them and if I suspect anything strange, I do not use them. This is the only thing I can this way. I always follow the instructions in the Ball Canning Book for any other vegetables.

I've been posting new clip art on "The Vintage Cottage" site for everyone to snag. I have alot of black and white clip art and am trying to figure out how to change the black to another color. I just haven't been able to master it yet. Does anyone have a suggestion on how to do this and what software to use?

I have been reading more this past summer. Just finished "Priceless" by Mariah Stewart and loved it. It is an easy read with a bit of intrigue, treasure hunting and lite romance. This is the 2nd book of hers that I've read and both were good.

Guess that's it for now. Have a great rest of the week.

God Bless!

Hooray, Hooray-Holiday Weekend!

2011-09-05T11:58:00.001-05:00

Happy Labor Day Everyone!

Wounded Warrior Project-Soldier Ride Germany

2011-09-01T13:45:00.000-05:00

On September 11, 2011 my son is cycling in Wounded Warrior Project’s (WWP) Soldier Ride Germany.

Funds raised support the programs and services of WWP, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors. Thousands of wounded warriors and caregivers receive support each year through WWP programs designed to nurture the mind and body, and encourage economic empowerment. WWP is dedicated to fostering the most successful well-adjusted generation of wounded warriors in our nation’s history.

Please sponser my son in his personal goal to raise funds to support our wounded servicemen and women of our nation’s armed forces, by clicking on the website listed below.

Soldier Ride Germany

If you prefer to send a check, please make it payable to Wounded Warrior Project, and mail the check to: Wounded Warrior Project, 7020 AC Skinner Parkway, Suite 100, Jacksonville, FL 32256. Important note: please indicate on the memo portion of the check the donation is for Soldier Ride, the city where the ride takes place, and my name. Example: Soldier Ride Germany, John Smith.

Thanks for your support and together, I know we can make a difference in the life of a wounded service member.

Good luck Jay and I am so proud of you!

Prayers

2011-08-26T13:21:00.000-05:00

I know that the eastern half of the country is very concerned about Hurricane Irene, as they should be. This storm looks to be a bad one and pray that the weather forecasts are wrong.

I may be in Iowa but my son has property near the naval base in Norfolk, my sister is in Falls Church, Virginia and she has an in-law in New Jersey and am certain that many of the bloggers are in Irene's sites too!

All of you are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray God will keep you and your loved ones safe and that whatever damage will be minimal.

Stay safe and know that our thoughts and prayers are with you!

God Bless!

Steve Jobs: How to live before you die | Video on TED.com

2011-08-25T18:23:00.001-05:00

Ran across this today and found it to be very inspiring. Hope you do too--

Steve Jobs: How to live before you die Video on TED.com

Strong Enough

2011-08-23T15:03:00.001-05:00

A blogger friends has this posted on their blog and fell in love with it. The words are amazing! Hope you like it too.

Boycott

2011-08-23T14:44:00.001-05:00

It appears that Casey Anthony is planning on selling her story and hopes to make a lot of money.

I find this disgusting and apalling and fully intend to boycott any effort by Ms. Anthony to profit from the horrific murder of her child, Caylee.

If you feel the same way, please repost the following on your blog and Facebook pages:

Dear Little Caylee Marie Anthony, Tonight on ET they mentioned that your Mommy (Casey) is gonna make lots of money off a book (her story) and a movie. Caylee, we the public promise you "WE" will not buy either one. If you promise CAYLEE, then Copy and Paste it......I did!! Lets boycott this so she won't make a dime. Re-post if you will join this boycott.

Thanks & God Bless!

Bumble Bees

2011-08-22T14:39:00.002-05:00

Today has been really busy and I am pooped!

Everything started first thing this morning. Let the dog out and heard this buzzing sound on the back porch. Looked around and saw a huge bumble bee flying in the room. Got the dog in and hunted for the flyswatter!

My hair has been pretty gray since my late 30's and now is 90% silver gray. I'm considering going natural. So this time I got a champagne blond color which was really close to my own color and colored my hair. Turned out pretty good not the shocking all blonde that I expected but a very pale brownish blond. Really happy as now it can grow out and will look a bit more natural.

I had enough tomatoes picked and neede to get them canned. So got the canner and supplies down and went ahead and canned 7 more pints of tomatoes. This is now 2 cases of pints that I have done.

Looked out on the porch and there were 4 more bees flying around-took care of those!

I've done 2 loads of laundry and bagged the trash for tomorrow morning. Finally fed the dog and myself. I've checked email and the blogs.

The bees are still getting in but haven't SEEN where they are getting through. We have been hanging drywall and taping and getting ready to texture the room so the trim boards are off the floor and think that is where the pesky little buggers are getting in. I can see my husband has his work cut out for him tonight! All in all, so far I have had to kill 2 dozens bees. I really hate doing that cause I know they pollinate the flowers and garden.

Bogart I found the comment interesting because it came from JFK who had a love of the ocean and sailing. I never associated it to Biblical teaching and never would thing that way. Just thought it was different.

Reviewer 11, I am so happy to see you have been able to leave comments!

Thanks everyone for the nice comments about the vacation photos and clipart. I just ordered a couple of packages of vintage and victorian clipart that is also royalty free and can't wait to share it with everyone!

Think I'm going to curl up on the couch and read my book for a couple of hours!

Have a great week everyone!

God Bless!

On The Way Home

2011-08-16T14:32:00.001-05:00

Here are more photos taken on the way back home. Unfortunately, we didn't get any pictures when we went through Taos, New Mexico because I was driving. It really is a pretty area and am sorry we didn't get pics!

Once we left New Mexico, the drive was pretty plain and we still had a long way to go before night fall and wasn't sure about motels since we were not on the major roadways. We made it to Boise City, Oklahoma which only had 2 motels. It was getting late and we were both tired so we stayed there. The motel was older and was being gradually remodeled but the room was clean and coffee was good but not much else was around. We got some sandwiches and drinks from the convenience store and settled in for the night.

This past Sunday we were watching a program on the History Channel about the dust bowl in the 1930's when low and behold, one of the towns the show mentioned was Boise City, Oklahoma! The town was among many that was hit pretty hard by the drought and the massive dust storms. We didn't know this when we stayed that night but found it interesting. The town appears to be still struggling to survive even after all of these years! It is just one of many that we saw that are in the same situation. As the major highways were built through other towns, the towns on the older routes have had a harder time attracting businesses and people to settle in their communities, making it difficult to grow, compete and survive.

Chimney Rock near Cortez, Colorado

between Cortez and Pagosa Springs, Colorado

Not sure whereI took this but has to be either Colorado or New Mexico.

Route 64, east of Taos heading into Oklahoma.

Showers and wind were like fingers dancing on the hills!

God Bless!

Mesa Verde National Park-Part 2

2011-08-09T11:52:00.000-05:00

Here is another batch of photos I took. There are several sites at the Park to visit and include Badger House, Step House, Wetherill Mesa, Long House, Spruce Tree House, Cliff Palace and Balcony House.

The Park is has over 600 cliff dwellings and over 4,500 archeological sites. There is hiking, backpacking, camping and tours and relatively inexpensive to get in. It would have been great to take 2 days to see everything. Be sure to take plenty of drinking water if you hike down to see the cliffs up close. It was pretty hot when we were there and the hikes up and down can be strenous.

God Bless!

Mesa Verde National Park

2011-08-09T11:27:00.002-05:00

Here are some more photos from our trip. All of these were taken at the Mesa Verde National Park just east of Cortez, Colorado. The ruins date back 1400 years ago and were home to the Anasazi people. The word Anasazi is Navajo and is sometimes translated as "the ancient foreigners". Now, the Anasazi are called the Ancestral Puebloans which reflects the current descendants. These people made the cliffs their homes for more than 700 years. They built these stone structures in the shelter of the canyon walls. They are truely amazing to see in person!

God Bless!

Interesting Quote

2011-08-06T11:10:00.001-05:00

My sister"s daughter is leaving for med school soon and they spent a few days at the beach in Naple's ,Florida. My other sister posted a quote on her FaceBook page which I found very interesting and profound. I wanted to share it too and hope you find it interesting as well!

"It is an interesting biological fact that all of us have in our veins the exact same percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean, and therefore, we have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears.
We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea--whether it is to sail or to watch it--we are going back from whence we came."- John F. Kennedy

Have a great weekend everyone and God Bless!

The Vintage Cottage

2011-08-05T10:00:00.002-05:00

I have new blog called The Vintage Cottage!

At The Vintage Cottage, you will find copyright free clip art to use for your blogs or other projects. I have been collecting the clipart for many years and thought you might also enjoy using them too.

I look forward to your visiting and hope you will become a follower!

God Bless!

Flooded in Missouri Too!

2011-08-03T16:30:00.000-05:00

These photos were taken near Warsaw, Missouri on Route 65 north towards the Iowa border. You can see that the water is on both sides of the road. Department of Transportation was there guiding traffic and checking to see if the sandbags were going to hold. The water was just starting to seep under the sandbags.

I suspect that the water was at lest 2 maybe 3 foot deep based on how high the corn was that was not burried in the water. The smell was terrible from all the rotting corn and landscape. Really nasty!

I never dreamed that the flooding we saw in Iowa would be that far inland in Missouri too. Absolutely devastating!

God Bless!

Missouri River Flooding in Iowa

2011-08-03T16:18:00.004-05:00

These photos were taken as we headed north on Iowa Route 29 just north of Route 34 and the little town of Pacific Junction towards Omaha. Look closely at both photos, in one you will see a building in the center and can just see the brown roof peeking out of the water. The other one, also has a building in the center and there are pickup trucks in it too.

The traffic was heavy and alot of detours so you really had to watch the road so these were the only two photos I managed to take. To be honest, it was very sombering and sad when you can see nothing but water where You Know there were buildings, cattle and people who used to live there.

God Bless!

2011-08-01T18:11:00.000-05:00

Here are some of the photos from on the way out west to Colorado.

Just starting to get into the mountains.

On the way to Pagosa Springs, Colorada

Near Pagaso Springs area.

Near Durango, Colorado.

Storm across street from where we stayed in Cortez, Colorado.

from my sister-in-law's front porch in Cortez, Colorado.

Enjoy everyone! God Bless!

Colorado Trip

2011-07-26T14:10:00.000-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while, we were on vacation to visit family and just got back yesterday. We had a great time and the trip was long overdue!

We drove from southern Iowa to Cortez, Colorado. Because of all the flooding from the Missouri River, we had to go north about 100 miles out of the way to cross, which put us going thru Omaha, Nebraska. Then we cut south thru Kansas and crossed the southern mountains of Colorado. Think the mileage out was about 1,200. On the way back we took a scenic route went south from Pagosa Springs, Colorado thru Taos, New Mexico. This was a scenic route to Taos and so happy that we went this way. The view was fantastic! Once we got thru New Mexico, we skirted the northern edge of Oklahoma, and Kansas finally thru the Ozarks of Missouri and then home in southern Iowa. We saw some really pretty country and some barren areas too and the drive was a little over 1,300 miles.

My husband and I are not big travelers so we took 2 1/2 days driving each way and this was just fine with us. We both dislike heavy traffic so Omaha, Nebraska, and Cortez and Durango, Colorado were the biggest cities we went through. Most of the route was very little traffic and the roads were good.

I took lots of pictures and will get some posted soon. I did want to share one thing with everyone. In the 2,500 plus miles we drove, many of the corn fields are burned up from the heat and can not be salvaged. Some parts of Oklahoma and Kansas had water restrictions in force such as no watering gardens, cars, filling pools, etc. It is really dry out there! We crossed the Missouri River at Waverly, Missouri. There were signs that there was water over the road. The land is covered with water, about 2-3 feet of water and maybe more on both sides of the road from the bridge to about 4 miles inland! I have no idea how far the water went downstream or how deep for sure. The fields were full of corn and water covered at least half of it's height and the corn was dead! I was heartsick when I saw the flooding in Iowa and Missouri. It is very bad and people say it will be a long time before it goes down.

The reason I am going into so much detail is because I want to warn everyone that it won't be long before any food items that use corn will become hard to get and very expensive too due to shortages. Just to name a view things, canned or frozen corn, cereal, meat, pet food and many other items. I would strongly suggest that if you can afford to start stocking up that it might be very wise to do so.

God Bless!

Deaths at Baseball Stadiums.

2011-07-12T12:28:00.001-05:00

I see from the news that there are another 2 almost accidents at the ball parks by fans trying to catch a fly ball. I don't understand why the stadiums don't install safety nets to prevent someone from falling to their death or getting several injured. In this most recent death, he fell 20 feet to the concrete. That tells me there should be more than enough room for a safety net.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family of the man that just died who fell in front of his son. What a tragedy!

In The Early Morning Light

2011-07-02T05:26:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I am up so early on a Saturday morning! Got my first cup of coffee and went outside with the dog for a bit. It is just starting to get light. The birds are singing and there is a slight breeze in the air and it is still warm. I can hear the water running in the pond and it is very soothing. As I look around the neighborhood, I can see a dotting of a view lights on in the houses. It is very quiet and almost no traffic yet. This is a wonderful time of the day for reflection and to give thanks. I love this time of the day!

Have a wonderful Saturday everyone! God Bless!

Wynonna Judd's Unforgettable Speech and Song!

2011-06-30T18:03:00.000-05:00

Unforgettable Speech and Song by Wynonna Judd

Watch as Wynonna Judd first tells her entire audience that she is proudly a child of God, and then proceeds to deliver one of the most amazing performances of I Can Only Imagine. WOW!

http://www.godvine.com/Unforgettable-Speech-and-Song-by-Wynonna-Judd-523.html

Mom is Doing Well

2011-06-30T13:32:00.002-05:00

Surgery is over and mom is in recovery and responsive. She will be moved to Intensive Care for 1-2 days and then she will be released. Doctor said she will have minimal discomfort which is really great news.

I am so relieved that she is okay. Thank you God for keeping her safe.

God Bless

Mom Having Surgery Tomorrow-Need Prayers

2011-06-29T15:47:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow my mom has surgery to have one of her carotid arteries unplugged. Please keep her in your prayers. My folks are both in their early 80's and live in Florida. My husband's family lives in southwestern Colorado and we live in southern Iowa which makes travel to see either of them expensive. I no longer work and my husband is a receiver for a small local factory.

Mom insisted that there was no reason for me to come down and dad and my two sisters would be there. We spent a week with my folks last summer so we made plans and arrangements to head west this year to see my husband's family. His dad is also in his 80's and it has been 5 years since we have seen him and 10 years since he has seen his sister. So this trip is important to all of them and my mom knew this. She said it was important for us to visit his family this year. So, I am not going to be there tomorrow and I feel very torn about that decision. I know my husband and his family would understand but still would be disappointed too.

I am so worried about my mom and this surgery. She had hip surgery a couple of years ago that did not go as she had hoped and she still is not up to pare. Granted part of it could be the carotid blockages. I know she means well and doesn't want me to worry but I am!

I love you Mom from the very depths of my heart! You will be in my thoughts and prayers. God bless and keep you safe during this time.

Please say a prayer for her. Thanks!

New Look, New Name, New Blog!

2011-06-26T17:08:00.003-05:00

I know I keep coming up with new blogs but until now I just haven't been happy with the designs or the name. I think I've finally found what I want for the name. I'm sure over time, I will probably change the design again, but we'll see.

I've moved all the posts from the other site to here and in the future, will only add new posts here. I hope that you will add a link to this site and continue to come back for visits.

Thanks to all my online friends for sticking with me!

Tim LeHaye Babylon Rising Series

2011-06-17T15:30:00.004-05:00

Just started reading a series by Tim LaHaye and I am already on book 3! Tim LaHaye was one of the authors of the Left Behind series which I also read. This new series is called Babylon Rising and the writing approach is much different than the Left Behind series. The books hold your interest and are confined to a handful of main characters and a really enjoyable read. So far, the four books in the series are;

Babylon Rising
The Secret on Ararat
The Europa Conspiracy
The Edge of Darkness

The story is about a university professor named Michael Murphy who teaches Biblical Archaeology and Biblical Prophecy. Murphy receives clues from an anonymous person named Methuselah who has a strange sense of humor and sends Murphy had dangerous hunts around the world for the artifacts. Murphy shares his finds with his students and likes to tie them to biblical times.

Methuselah has provided the clues for finding the Brazen Serpent, Nebuchadnezzar Golden Head, Noah's Ark and The Handwriting on the Wall. Since I've not read book IV yet, I've no idea what he will be searching for next, but am sure it will be an interesting adventure!

If you are looking for something interesting to read, you will not be disappointed with this series. It is not a new series but can be found at Amazon.com or your Christian bookstore could probable order it too.

Happy Sunday!

2011-06-12T14:21:00.000-05:00

Reviewer 11-thanks so much for the visits. I really appreciate them and your comments!

The weather has finally cooled down a bit and it is actually pleasant with a nice breeze. I've done a bit of weeding and deadheading of the roses and peonies but nothing strenuous.

I haven't been feeling good the past couple of days so haven't done much. It all started Friday after dinner while we were reorganizing some things. All of a sudden, I get very sick to my stomache, light headed and my hands and feet got tingly. I went and laid down on the couch and my husband moved the fans so they were blowing right on me. I didn't move for a few hours and then only to put pj's on and went and laid back down. Saturday, I felt a bit better but still not up to pare so did not do a lot either. Today, I drove to the grocery store for milk and a couple of other things. Went into the store, got a cart and walked back to the milk aisle and got a wave of nausea over me again. Left the cart and walked out to my car, turned the air on and sat for a minute and then drove home. I don't feel like it is the flu but really just don't feel good either. Guess, it will be to the doctors tomorrow if not back to normal.

Has anyone heard from Bogart? She hasn't posted since mid May and I'm getting a bit concerned. I know her husband had some health problems. I certainly hope all is okay. She and her family are in my thoughts and prayers!

I have been focusing my time on comparing photos to the ones I have put on my computer. Well, I thought I had them all scanned and backed up but found 5 more stacks of photos I didn't know about! So now, will have to scan those and then the 8 x 10's and finally, I think, I hope, they will all be in my computer. I want to put one back up in the bank safe deposit box.

Have a great rest of the day and a super week!

God Bless~~

Prayers

2011-05-26T14:05:00.000-05:00

My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who is suffering from the loss of a loved one, friend or neighbor and have had their lives torn apart from the damage over the past several from the severe weather. I pray God will give you the strength to recover from these difficult times and will provide with the hope that life will get better for you and your families.

God Bless~~

Nice Weekend

2011-05-23T09:50:00.000-05:00

Weather was kinda strange this weekend. Had a lot of nasty storms around us which kept us cloudy all weekend and a few patchy spots of rain. Nothing heavy. Looks like today and tomorrow is going to be nice with cooler temps. I love the temps right around 70 because it is more comfortable to work in the yard.

Wednesday night, my hub turned on the TV and there was just a thin line across the bottom of the screen. Next he smelled this awful smell and asked me if I smelled smoke. Told him not smoke but something really stinks. Needless to say, the old TV died and was buried Saturday at the transfer station!

Really didn't want to buy a new TV now cause vacation is not that far down the road. Oh well, stuff happens! Went to the trusty Wal-Mart and bought a 37" Vizio at a decent price. We paid $200 less than my folks did for theirs. The picture is awesome. We have satellite with free HD and can't for the life of me, figure out what the difference is between HD and regular picture. Can anyone tell me what I am missing??

Got the new baby set up to the satellite and VCR but still haven't figured out how to connect the DVD player. We have one plug that is not connected but can't find the right spot on the back of the tv. Guess I'll be calling Vizio for help on that one.

Since I have been feeling so much better, I have been doing more heavy cleaning. Still want to wash the curtains and windows and clean the carpet but think I will wait till we get back from vacation.

Okay, this is where I need input from everyone. I have problems with my very lower back near the tailbone and furniture can be a real problem for me. I have a big problem sleeping in a bed and have had for a few years now. I think part of the issue is my hub is a 100 pounds heavier than I am and when we are sleeping back to back, the position pulls me down into a gulley. This makes me wake up hunched over and hurting for the first half hour or so. We went out an bought a new mattress and boxspring and the same problem happens. When we went to see my folks last time, we spent one night at a Comfort Inn and slept on a King size bed. That was the first full nights sleep I have had in ages. I really hate to buy a new bed because just laying on it for 15 minutes or a half an hour is just not any way to test out something that you are going to be on for 7-8 hours at a time, in addition, to the amount of money a good mattress set costs. Any suggestions on what is a nice, comfy bed to sleep on???????

Hope everyone has a really great week. God Bless!!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T13:45:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day everyone!

For Bogart

2011-05-06T14:11:00.000-05:00

Dover Publications has an area where you can get samples of clipart that are copyright free. This is one that I got earlier this week and when I saw it I thought of you, Bogart. Although, anyone looking for a pretty letter "B" can snag it too! Just right button mouse to save the picture on your computer. Have fun!

Friday and Beautiful

2011-05-06T13:47:00.000-05:00

It is a beautiful day today! Sunny, warm and just a hint of a breeze.

Bogart-I just wanted to "Thank You" for the beautiful prayer that you sent and the fantastic uplifting post! Both were just what I needed and a "God" send! We too check on the eaglets daily and are amazed at how big they have gotten. It is truely awesome to watch birds up close and personal from birth to now. I agree it won't be long before they will be spreading their wings too. I was so thankful that the youngest eaglet has made it this far. I had my doubts for a while. The older one has changed colors too and the two older ones are just so curious about everything. They are a lot of fun to watch. Somewhere on that screen is also a link to watch hummingbirds. That may be a lot of fun to watch too!

News about Mom-she has two doctor visits comeing up. One on the 16th for the results of the MRI and brain damage and another on the 1st regarding the blockages. She emphatically has said "no open heart surgery", so I guess if she needs stints she will get them buy that is as far as she is going. I pray she will be okay and will wait until after the appointment on the first. I have felt more at peace the past few days and am thankful for that. I know everything is in God's hands.

Hope everyone has a really fantastic weekend and that the sun shines down on all of you!

~God Bless~

Upside Down

2011-05-03T15:27:00.002-05:00

It's been almost two years since my mom had hip surgery and things still are not right. Mom has always been a physically active person, walking 2 miles daily. She was more active than I! After the surgery she was transferred to a nursing home for rehabilitation. Somehow, either at the hospital or at the nursing home, she got a bowel and bladder infection and became extremely sick. She has never fully returned to the way she was prior to the surgery.

Now, to make matters worse, she has fallen several times and a few weeks ago my dad was helping her and they both fell. He also has had hip surgery many years ago but fully recovered. Mom thinks she has had minni strokes cause she has weakness in one arm. I have also noticed she has some trouble remembering words when we are talking. So far they have done an MRI and a CAT scan and now she is waiting for the results. In addition, doctors have been checking for blockages. Well, Saturday she told me that one artery is at 50% and another is at 79%. She is talking about surgery but doesn't know if it will be stints or open heart. Either way, I am terrified that she is not strong enough to recover!

This situation weighs very heavy on me as my husband's mother was to have stints done and they couldn't which led to open heart surgery. She went from the hospital to a nursing home for rehabilitation and went from bad to worse. She never came home and it was less than a year before she passed. I am sure that this is why I am having such a hard time with this.

I have always had a strong inner faith but do not belong to any church. I was raised Catholic but have not been a practicing one for a very long time. Divorce, remarriages and birth control does not sit well with the Vatican.

I am a Christian. I believe that Jesus is the son of God, that he died for my sins and was raised from the dead. Jesus is my personal Saviour and Lord.

I have always had to be in control of things so it is hard for me to let God take control of my life. I have begun reading and studying the Bible and know in my heart that is what I need to do and God will lead me in the right direction.

God Bless!

Thoughts and Prayers

2011-04-28T11:39:00.000-05:00

This mornings news about all of yesterdays tornados was just terrible. The deaths are horrible and the pictures of the property damage is devasting and numbing. Some towns completely gone. I can not comprehend how difficult it must be to be to pick up the pieces again and start over.

My thoughts and prayers are with all those people affected by these storms. God Bless them and give them the strength to cope with their loss and their lives.

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T14:26:00.000-05:00

Happy Easter to all my family and friends!

Doing Better

2011-04-19T14:37:00.000-05:00

Finally have started feeling better. Still have a touch of stomach issues but at least now I can do things instead of laying around.

My thoughts and prayers are with all those who were devasted by the severe weather this past weekend. I thank God that we were not. Today we have had heavy rain and it has gotten cold again. Hopefully, it will be warm again soon.

My hubby is off this Friday and I think we are going to go shopping in the morning. I know he wants to go to Menard's and I would like to go to the Christian Book Store. Just found out there was one in the small mall we go to.

I've been checking on the eaglets and all three are doing great. In fact, two of them have already started changing color. They are getting very big. I can't believe how much they have grown! They are so much fun to watch and they have become pretty active too! I can see they will be a beak-full for their mama---

Well, hope everyone has a very Happy Easter and God Bless!

Not Posting Right Now-Sick

2011-04-07T09:55:00.000-05:00

I wanted to let everyone know that I have been reading your comments but have not been feeling good so am not doing much posting. My stomach is flared up again and the meds just make things worse but I have to continue to avoid a major problem that could led to being put in the hospital.

I hope everyone is enjoying watching the eagles. They are so amazing to see in the sky and to get "an up close and personal" look at them is truely awesome and awe inspiring! Just in case some of you have not seen the stories on the news or the video feed. Here is the link:

Eagle Cam

Still have a week to go on the meds so look for me after that. Take care and have a great day!

Decorah Live Stream Eagle Cam

2011-04-03T14:09:00.000-05:00

This is so cool to watch. Decorah, Iowa has a pair of eagles that have had 3 babies. So far one has hatched and the other 2 are close to hatching too. Most of the time, you see the momma but this morning we got to see the male eagle too! The nest is 80 ft in the air and if you look closely, you can see the road traffic in the background.

What an amazing thing to watch. and wanted to share with you. Not very often you can watch baby eagles hatching, so have fun! Great learning experience for the kids!

Streaming .TV shows by Ustream

Can't Get Anything Done?

2011-03-23T14:41:00.000-05:00

I saw this and it made me chuckle. Just had to share. Click on the photo to see the animation. This is just cute!

Ever Feel Like You Never Get Anything Done?

May your troubles be less,

Your blessings more,

And may nothing but happiness,

Come through your door

I'm in the 7%

2011-03-19T11:19:00.000-05:00

I got this forward from my dad this morning. I normally delete forwards without reading them. However,whenI sawit was written by a 90 year old, it caught my attention. I am so glad, that I took the time to read it. I've printed a copy to hang on the frig.

What this woman wrote is very profound and really is true if you take the time to think about it! I hope you will feel that way too.

Written by a 90 year old

This is something we should all read at least once a week!!!!! Make sure you read to the end!!!!!!

Written by Regina Brett, 90 years old, of the Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio

"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most requested column I've ever written.

My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

42. The best is yet to come...

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

Its estimated 93% won't forward this. If you are one of the 7% who will, forward this with the title '7%'.

I'm in the 7%. Friends are the family that we choose.

Magazine Subscription Notices

2011-03-17T11:37:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone! Hope you're all wearin your green!!

Kinda cloudy out today and a bit breezy but not cold. Worked in the flower beds this morning putting cement blocks along the wood fence in hopes that it will stop the spring rains from flooding the yard. The blocks are 16" long and weigh about 40 lbs. each, so don't think they will go anywhere. Just hope it works!

Everyone who has magazine subscriptions might want to pay a bit more attention to their mail from now on! Read on for the full story--

I got a post card in the mail from Better Homes and Gardens yesteray regarding the renewal of my subscription. I tore the care in half and was just about to throw it away when the words "You don't have to do a thing-" caught my eye and I thought, a thing about what. I had no intention of renewing the magazine, so what are they talking about! Well----I put the card back together and then read it, BH & G are AUTOMATICALLY going to "renew" my subscription and then bill me!! When I get their bill, if I no longer want the magazine, I just write cancel on the bill and return it. Have no idea if the postage is on me or them! Here's one more thing that I need to keep track of. However, I thought what an underhanded way to get people to renew their subscriptions and not really realize that they did! I would have never picked up on this had I not seen the one phrase!

Just thought everyone might want to know. I suspect you may see this from other magazine companies too.

Have a wonderful day~~

No Call Number

2011-03-14T10:51:00.000-05:00

I know a lot of people use cell phones and no longer have "land lines" for phone service. We still have "land lines" for main phone service and also have TracPhones. We don't do a lot of cell phone calls so for travel and emergency use the Trac Phone works well. You know how some things are really difficult to grasp like life insurance, stock markets and cell phone programs. Well I just can't seem to justify the cost of canceling our land line and Internet service. We have unlimited long distance with the phone and DSL for the computer.

Anyway, I digress from the message for this post. Needless to say that with TracPhone, you lose units on both incoming and outgoing calls. Now mind you I don't mind the outgoing, but I do mind the incoming when it is sales or spam calls. The other night, he was awakened by three phone calls starting about 3 am about a half an hour apart. He called the number which was a voice message and it was all in a foreign language. I told him maybe it had something to do with the problems in Japan.

My husband starts telling me that one of his co-workers had told him about the DO NOT CALL registry for the cell phones and he says one of these days we should list our numbers. I told him to take the time and do it now. It only took a minute or two to list both of our cell phones. It takes 30 days and then if you receive sales calls, etc., then you can report the callers number.

If any of you are having this same problem, here is the number for the registry: 888-382-1222.

Hope it is of help to you! Have a great day everyone!

Dandelion Dressing

2011-03-01T13:26:00.000-06:00

While sorting books I found this recipe between the pages of one. I have no idea what magazine it came out of or who the original author may have been but thought it was unusal and worthy of saving.

Dandelion Dressing
1 beaten egg
2-3 tablespoons vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
2-3 tablespoons water
salt

Beat well. Fry a strip of diced bacon until partially cooked. Pour off excess grease, add diced onion and continue frying. Add egg mix and continue cooking until thick, stirring constantly. Pour over well-drained dandelion and mix thoroughly. Add sliced hard-boiled egg(optional).

Salt Dough Ornaments

2011-03-01T13:14:00.000-06:00

I know a lot of you have children and make your own ornaments. Here is a recipe for the dough:

Salt Dough Ornaments

6 tablespoons of plain flour
3 tablespoons salt
3 tablespoons water
acrylic paints
narrow ribbon

Mix the flour and salt in a bowl, gradually add the water until dough is firm but pliable. Set aside for 10 minutes.

Place dough on pastry board and roll into 1/4" thickness, cut with cookie cutters. Use a straw to put a small hole into the top for hanging before baking.

Place on baking parchment paper on cookie sheet. Bake in preheated 250 degree oven for about 6 horus until hard. Leave in oven to cool.

Paint when cool. Thread ribbon through hole and hang!

Coffee Mug Cake

2011-03-01T13:11:00.000-06:00

1 coffee mug

Coffee Mug Cake
4 tablespoons sugar
4 tablespoons flour (not self-rising)
2 tablepoons baking cocoa
1 egg
3 tablespoons milk
3 tablespoons oil
3 tablespoons chocolate chips
dash of vanilla

Put dry ingredients in small bowl and mix well. Add egg and mix well. Pur in milk and oil, mix well. Add chocolate chips and vanilla and mix well. Pour all into your mug. Put mug into the microwave, cook 3 minutes at 1000 watts.

The cake will rise over the top of the mug, so don't worry.

Allow mug to cool then tip cake onto a plate. Serves 2 if you want to share!

Mandarin Salad

2011-03-01T13:09:00.000-06:00

Mandarin Salad

2 cups cold buttermilk
1large pckg instant vanilla pudding
12 oz Cool Whip, thawed
1 can 22oz mandarin oranges, drained well
1 pckg fudge-striped cookies, coarsely crushed

Whisk buttermilk and pudding for 2 minutes. Let stand until soft set. Fold in whipped topping and oranges. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Stir in crushed cookies.

Danish Puffs

2011-03-01T13:08:00.000-06:00

Danish Puffs

1cup flour
1/2 cup butter
2 tablespoons water
1/2 cup butter
1 cup water
1 teaspoon almond flavoring
1 cup flour
3 eggs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Put 1 cup of flour in a bowl, cut in 1/2 cup butter, sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of water and mix with fork. Roll into a ball, divide in half. Form 2 strips about 12" x3" and put on ungreased baking sheet about 3 inches apart.

Bring to a boil, 1/2 cup butter and 1 cup water. Remove from heat and add almond flavoring. Beat in flour, stirring quickly to prevent clumping. When smooth, add one egg at a time, beating well after each until smooth. Divide in half and spread evenly over each strip.

Bake about 1 hour. Frost with confectioners' icing when cool.

New Face and Changes

2011-02-25T17:51:00.000-06:00

Ever since Christmas I've noticed that each month I seem to have less time to do all the things that I wanted to accomplish. Not sure how I've managed to go in so many different directions with too many projects, but I did! Somehow, when all was said and done, I had 4 blogs to maintain and realized that none of them were being kept up with and that was never my intention. I do love reading all the different blogs and blogging, but I think trying to keep 4 of them going is a bit too much!

When I started blogging a few years ago, my intention was to focus on the genealogy research, thinking that I might connect with others tracing the same family lines as mine. Unfortunately, that too, has not happened.

So, this is the start of a new beginning and fresh look on things. I am combining all the blogs into no more than 2, one for personal and one for genealogy. My Front Porch will end up being the combination of 3 other blogs. So, please bear with me while I make these changes.

I do hope you like the new look. I thought it was very cheery!

Enjoy~

Christmas ABC's

2010-11-29T14:40:00.000-06:00

A is for Angels with halos so bright. Whose carols were heard on that first Christmas Night.

B is for Bells so merrily ringing, Joy To The Word is the message they’re bringing.

C is for Candles that so brightly shine to give a warm welcome to your friends and mine.

D is for Doorway with garlands of green to make Christmas merry as far as they’re seen.

E is for Evergreens with fragrance so rare so plentiful at Christmas their scent fills the air.

F is for Fun the whole season long from trimming the tree to singing a song.

G is for Greetings a merry “hello”. With a heart full of love for people we know.

H is for Holly with berries so red to make into wreaths to hang overhead.

I is for Ice on snow covered hills where sledding is fun along with the spills.

J is for Jesus the Christ Child so dear. We honor his birth on Christmas each year.

K is for Kris Kringle so merrily he stands. He is who they call Santa in so many lands.

L is for Lanterns I am sure that their light helped Mary and Joseph that first Christmas Night.

M is for Mary her heart full of love for her little son Jesus who came from above.

N is for Noel the angels did sing to herald the birth of Jesus, our King.

O is for Ornaments shining and bright with lights on the tree to sparkle at night.

P is for Packages with ribbons so gay all ‘round the tree for our Christmas Day.

Q is for Quiet-Christmas Eve Night with snow covered hills glistening so bright.

R is for Reindeer who pull Santa’s sleigh to your house, to my house, they know the way.

S is for Shepherds who first saw the star over Bethlehem’s manager and followed it far.

T is for Trees we decorate so gay. Then wait for ole Santa to hurry our way.

U is for Universe where Christmas brings joy to all in the world to each girl and each boy.

V is for Visiting friends near and far. We travel by plane or by bus, or by car.

W is for Wise Men who brought gifts so rare and knelt down and worshiped the child they found there.

X is for X-Mas or Christmas by full name. No matter the language it all means the same.

Y is for Yule Logs whose bright sparks fly high to give a warm welcome to friends passing by.

Z is for Zeal we show at this time in giving to others and loving mankind.

~Author Unknown~

Our Legacy

2010-10-12T14:59:00.000-05:00

The human record is our shared legacy. It belongs to everyone and when we loose it, everyone looses and it's our responsiblity to pass them on to future generations intact.

[src.} Joan Bretoncommelly, Ph.d., Prof. of Classics and Art History, NYC
History Chanel-Indiana Jones and the Ultimate Quest, aired May 19, 2008

Short Sayings

2010-10-12T13:01:00.000-05:00

We are part of all we have met-author unknown
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Life is lived forwards but understood backwards
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lead Me Video

2010-09-27T14:07:00.000-05:00

The lyrics in this video are awesome and just had to share it. Be sure to press stop on the music player in the right column before playing the video.

Chain of Moments of Enjoyment

2010-09-26T14:54:00.000-05:00

Today we have higher buildings and wider highways, but shorter temperments and narrower points of view.

We spend more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses, but smaller families. We have more compromises, but less time. We have more knowledge, but less judgement. We have more medicines, but less health.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk much, we love only a little, and we hate too much.

We reached the moon and came back, but we find it troublesome to cross our own street and meet our neighbors. We have conquered the outer space, but not our inner space.

We have higher income, but less morals… These are times with more liberty, but less joy… With much more food, but less nutrition.

These are days in which two salaries come home, but divorces increase. These are times of finer houses, but more broken homes.

That’s why I propose that as of today -- You do not keep anything for a special occasion, because every day that you live is a special occasion. Search for knowledge, read more, sit on your front porch and admire the view without paying attention to the needs. Pass more time with your family, eat your favorite food, visit the place you love. Life is a chain of moments of enjoyment; it isn’t only survival.

Use your crystal goblets. Do not save your best perfume… use it every time you feel you want it. Take out from your vocabulary phrases like, “one of these days” and “someday”. Let’s write that letter we thought of writing “one of these days…”

Let’s tell our families and friends how much we love them. Never pass up a chance at adding laughter and joy to your life. Every day, hour, and minute are special… Because you never know if it will be your last...

If you’re too busy to take some minutes to share this message with someone you love, and you tell yourself that you will share it “one of these days”… “one of these days” can be very far away, and you may not be there to see it…

Author-Unknown

God's Gift

2010-09-26T14:48:00.000-05:00

What you are is God's gift to you, what you make of yourself is your gift to God.

~Jewish Proverb~

Purple Hat List

2010-08-02T14:11:00.000-05:00

In honor of Passing The Purple Hat, Here is a list of my female relatives that have been affected by cancer.

These are the colors that represent the different cancers

I will be happy to add your names to this list, just leave a comment with the name and type of cancer.

Gaile Ann Silva-brain cancer

Berneice Carneligia-lung cancer

Maria Misson-breast cancer

Passing The Purple Hat

2010-08-02T14:01:00.000-05:00

Passing the Purple Hat to You

In honor of women's history month and in memory of Erma Bombeck who lost her fight with cancer.
Pass this on to five women that you want watched over.
If you don't know five women to pass this on to, one will do just fine.

IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER - by Erma Bombeck

(written after she found out she was dying from cancer).

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

I would have talked less and listened more.

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, 'Later. Now go get washed up for dinner.' There would have been more 'I love you's' More 'I'm sorry's.'

But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute. Look at it and really see it . . live it and never give it back. STOP SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF!!!

Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what
Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do love us.

If you don't mind, send this on to all the women you are grateful to have as friends.

Maybe we should all grab that purple hat earlier.

Please send this to five phenomenal women today in celebration of Beautiful Women's Month.

If you do, something good will happen--you will boost another woman's self esteem.

KEEP IT LIT!

IN MEMORY .. . . . ..

These are the colors that represent the different cancers.

All you are asked to do is keep this circulating, even if it's to one more person, in memory of anyone you know who has been struck by cancer.

A Candle Loses Nothing by Lighting Another Candle.

Please Keep The Candle Going!

This post and graphics can be freely copied and passed along!

Daily Acceptance Prayer

2010-08-02T13:46:00.000-05:00

I accept myself completely. I accept my strengths and my weaknesses, my gifts and my shortcoming, my good points and my faults. I accept myself completely as a human being.

I accept that I am here to learn and grow, and I accept that I am learning and growing. I accept the personality I've developed, and I accept my power to heal or change.

I accept myself without condition or reservation.

I accept that the core of my being is goodness and that my essence is love, and I accept that I sometimes forget that.

I accept myself completely, and in acceptance I find an ever deepening inner strength. From this place of strength, I accept my life, fully and I open to the lessons it offers me today.

I accept that within my mind are both fear and love, and I accept my power to choose which I will experience as real. I recognize that I experience only the results of my own choices. I accept the times that I choose fear as part of my learning and healing process, and I accept that I have the potential and power in any moment to choose love instead.

I accept mistakes as a part of growth, so I am always willing to forgive myself and give myself another chance. I accept that my life is the expression of my thought, and I commit myself to aligning my thoughts more and more each day with the Thought of Love.

I accept that I am an expression of this Love. Love's hands and voice and heart on earth. I accept my own life as a blessing and a gift. My heart is open to receive, and I am deeply grateful.

May I always share the gifts that I receive fully, freely, and with joy.

~Author Unknown~

Calories That Don't Count

2010-08-02T13:24:00.000-05:00

We have it on experience (our own and thousands of others) that the following food and situations have no calories to speak of (although the knowledgeable might describe them as unspeakable calories.)

OTHER PEOPLE'S FOOD: A chocolate mousse that you did not order has no calories. Therefore, have your companion order dessert and you taste half of it!

INGREDIENTS IN COOKING: Chocolate chips are fattening, about 50 calories a tablespoon. So are chocolate chip cookies! however, chocolate chips eaten while making chocolate chip cookies have no calories whatsoever. Therefore, make chocolate chip cookies often but don't eat them!

FOOD ON FOOT: All food eaten while standing has no calories. Exactly why is not clear, but the current theory relates to gravity. The calories apparently bypass the stomach flowing directly down the legs and through the soles of the feet into the floor, like electricity. Walking seems to accelerate this process, so that a frozen custard or hot dog eaten at a carnival actually has a calorie deficit!

CHILDREN'S FOOD: Anything produced, purchased or intended for minors is calorie-free when eaten by adults. This category covers a wide range, beginning with a spoonful of baby tapioca---consumed for demonstration purposes---up to and including cookies baked and sent to college!

UNEVEN EDGES: Pies and cakes should be cut neatly, in even wedges or slices. If not, the responsibility falls on the person putting them away to "straighten up the edges" by slicing away the offending irregularities, which have no calories when eaten. If pie or cake is neatly cut, but the remainder is not easily divisible into equal servings, it's also permissible to even things up---without calorie consequence!

~Author Unknown~

Some Basic Concepts of Human Behavior

2010-07-31T14:38:00.000-05:00

1. You choose your own behavior.

2. Most people who cling to inappropriate behavior do so because it is familiar to them or it makes them feel safe or they have never questioned it.

3. We have to be aware of our feelings, beliefs, expectations and assumptions if we are to cope with them.

4. What you say to yourself has a powerful influence on your behavioral choices.

5. Everyone is afraid of something.

6. Since we can create our own fears, we can eliminate them.

7. In general, unrealistic fears become obstacles that keep us from becoming what we want to become.

8. One has to risk failure in order to experience success.

9. Failure is never permanent; unless you let it be.

10. Most people love to blame something outside themselves for their problems and shortcomings.

11. Another person cannot make you feel inadequate or of low value unless you give them permission.

12. All of us limit ourselves in some way.

13. We can learn to change our behaviour.

14. Trying out new behaviors can be fun.

15. Even the longest journey starts out with one step.

16. Both parties to a relationship must want it to work or it will fail.

17. Team effort depends upon individual effort.

~Author Unknown~

Forever Friends

2010-07-21T10:58:00.000-05:00

Just like a rose,

so precious and rare,

is the forever friendship

the two of us share.

Planted with kindness,

it's warmed by the sun

of caring and sharing,

laughter and fun.

It's grounded in trust

and nurtured by love,

with a sprinkling of grace

from God up above.

Tears of sadness and joy,

like dew, renew this friendship

I share with you.

And in the heart's garden,

we find the room to be ourselves,

to grow and bloom.

A blessing of beauty unsurpassed,

our friendship's a flower

that will always last.

~Author Unknown

Start with Yourself

2010-07-21T10:53:00.000-05:00

When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world.

As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not chance, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country. But it, too, seemed immovable.

As I grew into my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of it.

And now as I lie on my bed with little time left, I suddenly realized: If I had only changed myself first, then by example I would have changed my family. From their inspiration and encouragement, I would then have been able to better my country and who knows, I may have even changed the world.

~Author Unknown

Another Chance

2010-07-21T10:44:00.000-05:00

How ofter we wish for another chance

To make a fresh beginning.

A change to blot out our mistakes.

And change failure into winning.

And it does not take a special time

To make a brand-new start.

It only takes the deep desire

To try with all your heart,

To live a little better

And to always be forgiving,

To add a little sunshine

To the world in which we're living.

So never give up in despair

And think that your are through,

For there's always a tomorrow

And a change to start anew.

~Author Unknown

Poem found in the March/April 2010 issue of the

countryregisterof iowa.com

What Is Faith?

2010-07-03T17:53:00.002-05:00

"What is faith? It is the confidant assurance that something we want is going to happen. It is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead. Men of God in the days of old were famous for their faith" ~ Hebrews 2:1-2

Posting Comments

2010-06-26T17:16:00.000-05:00

This is my first Blogger blog and apparently I have not had my settings correct for posting of comments. I have adjusted my settings and have posted a test message and from my end, everything looks as if it is running correctly.

A new box will pop up for you to post comments and it may take a second or two to show. If you have a problem posting comments, please let me know.

Thank you!

The Gift

2010-06-26T16:56:00.000-05:00

Every morning you are handed 24 golden hours.

They are one of the few thingsin this world that you get free of charge.

If you had all the money in the world, you couldn't buy an extra hour.

What will you do with this priceless treasure?

Remember, you must use it, as it is given only once.

Once wasted you cannot get it back.

-Author Unknown_

Hardest Tasks

2010-06-26T16:45:00.000-05:00

The four hardest tasks on earth are neither physical nor intellectual feats, but spiritual ones:

To return love for hate.

To include the excluded.

To forgive without apology

an to be able to say "I was wrong."

-Author Unknown_

Great Hopes

2010-06-26T16:38:00.000-05:00

Have great hopes and dare to go all out for them.

Have great dreams and dare to live them.

Have tremedous expectations and believe in them.

--Author Unknown--

what speaks to my heart

Bravenet Problems???

Valentine Wishes

You Raise Me Up

GodVine Message

God, please be my guide.Fill me, lead me, and mold me.Love me, use me, and hold me. Please be with me always. ♥

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Kallie's Home

Decorah Eagles Cam

Holidays Are Over

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas!

A Short Note

This and That

Happy Thanksgiving!

Life Settling Down Again

Condolences and Messages

Dad's Passed

Dad Not Good

Surgery Done

Surgery Today

Father-in-law Hospitalized

Riddle

Yard Sale, Parents

Yard Sale

Sick With A Cold

Happy Friday

My Neighbor, Betty Moore

Kitten's Name and Update

Update on Kitten

Need Prayers Today!

Educational Videos for kids

All My Projects

Very Cool Rainy Day

Mood Pick-Me Ups

Remembering Sept. 11th, Ten Years Later

A Day In The Neighborhood

Hooray, Hooray-Holiday Weekend!

Wounded Warrior Project-Soldier Ride Germany

Prayers

Steve Jobs: How to live before you die | Video on TED.com

Strong Enough

Boycott

Bumble Bees

On The Way Home

Mesa Verde National Park-Part 2

Mesa Verde National Park

Interesting Quote

The Vintage Cottage

Flooded in Missouri Too!

Missouri River Flooding in Iowa

Colorado Trip

Deaths at Baseball Stadiums.

In The Early Morning Light

Wynonna Judd's Unforgettable Speech and Song!

Mom is Doing Well

Mom Having Surgery Tomorrow-Need Prayers

New Look, New Name, New Blog!

Tim LeHaye Babylon Rising Series

Happy Sunday!

Prayers

Nice Weekend

Happy Mother's Day!

For Bogart

Friday and Beautiful

Upside Down

Thoughts and Prayers

Happy Easter!

Doing Better

Not Posting Right Now-Sick

Decorah Live Stream Eagle Cam

Can't Get Anything Done?

I'm in the 7%

Magazine Subscription Notices

No Call Number

Dandelion Dressing

Salt Dough Ornaments

Coffee Mug Cake

Mandarin Salad

God, please be my guide.
Fill me, lead me, and mold me.
Love me, use me, and hold me.
Please be with me always. ♥