Living A Simplified Life

Miracle of the Ring

2010-04-04T01:11:00.013-04:00

"You know me I'm romantically challenged... our first Anniversary is coming up, so I give You control." was the Prayer of my Husband, just before our First Wedding Anniversary in 1996.

Afterwards he came to me and said. "Our first Anniversary is coming up. What would you like for me to get you?"

Not only was I surprised to hear his question I was equally surprised when I heard myself saying, "I'd like a Ring... size 7, silver.. with a heart in the middle of it, an Antique... or antique looking."

Because I had not thought about it in advance ... I remember my response very well.

My Hubby said he thought... 'Good, something solid to work with, that should be easy'....and immediately took me out to some Antique and Thrift Shops in pursuit of it. We never found such a Ring... and even if we found one, we could only wonder how it would be provided for as our funds at the time were lean. After Prayer, we both let the desire go.

When our first Anniversary arrived, my Hubby said, "Since we could not find the Ring, what do you want to do for our Anniversary?"

I replied, "We are going to be buying this House at the end of the Month, and since our Home is a reflection of our relationship, let's work on fixing it up with us as a Couple in mind."

Through what to us was evidence of the Sovereignty of God and the fulfillment of Spiritual Promises given to me Prophetically before we met, while I was in Prayer alone 7 years earlier;*I hope to share details of that story in other Blogs if hope becomes reality* in a few weeks we were going to be purchasing a small Cottage my Hubby had been renovating on a Barter Basis for a Christian over the past year. There were still a lot of unfinished Projects. While working on a Barter Basis, the Projects were done with future Tenants in mind ... After she offered to sell the House to us, at Father's urging and detailed instructions; (she resisted initially), we were delighted to discover we could think of ourselves. For both of us... this would be restoration ... and possibly the Home we would retire in.

My Hubby said, "Great! I will work on any Project you want as my Gift to you."

I suggested he work on the step leading up from the Mud Room which needed to be replaced ... As he pulled out some old wood and insulation, we talked while I watched from above. He told me later he noticed something shiny behind the insulation ... when he pulled it out and saw what it was... he blew it off and offered it to me with an awareness he was kneeling with one knee on the floor (like he was about to propose), as he said, "Happy Anniversary!"

We were both in awe as to what he found ... an Antique Silver Ring ... size 7, with a heart in the middle of it!

Such a Testimony as this brings to mind Spiritual Principles:

'Seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness and all your needs will be met... God goes before us and makes the way... HE answers our Prayers before we even ask them', came to mind. Truly... the Spirit of God knew this day would come and had planned it in advance according to HIS ever unfolding plan for us! Once again He proved His faithfulness to us... and revealed His Romantic Heart... another new aspect of His Spirit for us to experience. Plus... as an added bonus, since that day... my Hubby has been romantic... even when he is unaware he is being such!

For such as this and more I am truly grateful!

vocatus atque non vocatus Deus aderit

Whether or not you ask Him God is Present.

May our thoughts and experiences bring us into a greater awareness the resurrected Spirit of Christ is ever present ... seeking to shower us with Unconditional Love and Spiritual Truths ... according to the New Covenant He established for all.

A Request of My Readers

2010-04-03T01:11:00.001-04:00

I am curious to know if People other than those I ask to consider this Blog are actually finding it and if so, how? With so many Bloggers out there... we Bloggers who Blog for the fun of it wonder how often we are being read and look for ways to help others find us. Naturally we hope through word of mouth others will find us too.

I understand there are Readers out there who never respond to blogs, but I am asking you to please consider leaving a comment to the Request above ... even if it is anonymous or via a private email to me.

If you are inspired to do so... please tell us where your from and what drew you here ... and if there's anything special about this sight you like that you'd like to see more of... do tell. *smile

Thank you ever so kindly. bren

Link Review: Good Old Days Want Ads 'Card Shower Party' for Shut Ins

2010-04-02T01:11:00.002-04:00

Recently while searching the Web, I came across this Link: www.my.goodoldayswantads.com While there I found a section that requested that people shower Shut Ins and Elderly People they know with Cards. I thought this was a great idea! Thus I consider this to be a Link Worth Mentioning. Here is an example: of one of the pages at their Forum.

Featured Discussions
card shower for mother on dialysis I would like to have a Birthday card shower for my mom who turns77 on February 18th, she resideds in a nursing home due to stroke and kidne… Started by Lesia CrawfordLatest Reply
GETT WELL CARD SHOWER FOR MY 83 YEAR OLD DAD PLEASE MOST OF YOU LOVELY PEOPLE HAVE KNOWN ME FOR A WHILE ! I WOULD TRULY APPRICIATE A CARD SHOWER FOR MY DAD "CYRIL " AND HIS LOVELY WIFE "NAN"… Started by christine darlingtonLatest Reply
Birthday card shower for a friend. I am requesting a card shower for Vernon Wolf. He will be 80 on April 2nd. He was in the navy 0n the USS Enterprise 1964-1967. He served… Started by Sharon L. Goodrow/HumbleLatest Reply

View All

Discussions	Replies	Latest Activity
GETT WELL CARD SHOWER FOR MY 83 YEAR OLD DAD PLEASE MOST OF YOU LOVELY PEOPLE HAVE KNOWN ME FOR A WHILE ! I WOULD TRULY APPRICIATE A CARD SHOWER FOR MY DAD "CYRIL " AND HIS LOVELY WIFE "NAN"… Started by christine darlington	22	1 day ago Reply by christine darlington
Thank You Everyone For My Mother's Cards! Thank you to all the wonderful people who sent my Mother birthday cards for her 85th birthday! She received over 100 cards, letters and b… Started by Debbie Anderson	0	Mar 27
card shower for mother on dialysis I would like to have a Birthday card shower for my mom who turns77 on February 18th, she resideds in a nursing home due to stroke and kidne… Started by Lesia Crawford	20	Mar 27 Reply by Margaret Ann Bosley
Birthday Card Shower for my Great Aunt I would like to have a birthday card shower for my great aunt. Her name is Naomi Kemp and she will be 96 years young on May 8th. We would… Started by Tonya Nicholson	2	Mar 18 Reply by Tonya Nicholson
Card shower for shutin. Hi Friends, I am requesting a card shower for a friend who is lonely and housebound. Her name is Anna Cole 3216 Peters Corner Road, Ma… Started by Estella Ann Stanley	8	Mar 18 Reply by Estella Ann Stanley
Birthday card shower for my penpal who seems very down. I am penpals with a very sweet lady who will be celecrating a birthday on September 9th. Elaine is a widow, having health issues and her tw… Started by Kris McMillin	25	Mar 17 Reply by Donna Bourret
Seeking a mail shower for house bound Aunt We subscribe to Good 'Ol Days for my husband's Mom. My husband and I would like to surprise his Mom's older sister (86) living in scenic La… Started by Charlene Craig	21	Mar 17 Reply by Donna Bourret
Sympathy card shower for my Mom..... We lost my Dad last night. If any of you would do so, could you please send a sympathy card to my mom? June BenefieldP. O. Box 661Anadar… Started by Debbie Pittman	13	Mar 16 Reply by Debbie Pittman
Birthday Card Shower PLEASE (-: Linda Ellis POB 3026 Santa Margarita CA 93453 I will turn 80 on my birthday in mid-March. As my friends and family have dwindled so have ca… Started by Linda Lou	15	Mar 15 Reply by Sarah Stastny
I would appreciate your help I am a home bound senior. I have never been able to travel, so I started to collect postcards from any place. I love old postcards, cards t… Started by Dale L. Brown My Daughter and I Collect Antique Post Cards. We have a lot of Old Greeting Cards with Stamps from the early 1900's forward. I think I will pick through them and send some out. This just may bring back some fun Memories for these Old Timers of the good old days ... and enlighten a few who may not have been privy to such experiences of days gone by. Oh ... and during this Easter ~ Passover Holiday Season, do keep the Elderly and Shut In's in mind and give them a visit... when you do, you might consider brings cards along! *Am having Fun living a simplified Life ~ Hows' about you?*		Mar 5 Reply by Dale L. Brown

Link Review: Country Living, Skills, Memories and Country People

2010-03-31T01:11:00.003-04:00

While Searching the Web Tonight came across this Link: http://www.kountrylife.com/
Below are two is Excerpts from it. I think it's a Link well worth Mentioning. Enjoy!
Country Living, Country Skills
Country People

KountryLife.com - A Country Living Resource and Community

March 30, 2010

Welcome... We have much to share with you. Take off your shoes, grab a cup of hot chocolate or coffee and stay awhile! [About Us]

Talk With Us - our very active and friendly forum gives you a chance to discuss country life and rural living. [Let's Talk!]

Stroll Down Memory Lane - browse through many memories of country living. Share your own memories with others! [Let's Stroll]

Country Living Tips - readers have provided an extensive list of tips and information which you can browse or search. [View Tips]

Articles of Interest - there is an ever-growing list of interesting articles covering a variety of country topics. [Read Articles]

Photos Galore - There are current photos of country living submitted by our readers, old vintage photos, and interest-area collections. [Current Pics] [Old Pics] [Collections]

And a Lot More - use the menu bar on the left to browse the site. You can also perform a site search or view a huge table of contents. [Search the Site] [Show Contents]

We're glad you are here and hope you will come back often...

Country Living, Country Skills
Country People

KountryLife.com - A Country Living Resource and Community

Community

Message Board
Country Topics
Trading Post
Memory Lane
Country Skills
Country Cooking
YT Magazine

Channels

Gardening
Livestock
The Kitchen
Machinery
Tools

Photographs

Photo Gallery
Vintage Photos
Special Collections

Fun

Country Humor
Country Sounds
Coloring Book
Interactive Story

Farm Tractors

Articles
Pictures
Tractor Parts
Tractor Manuals

Miscellaneous

ATS Store
Classic Trucks
Antique Tractors
Modern Tractors
Site Map
Links Page
Contact Us

Kountry Life Memories List

My Summer Vacation
The Long Dusty Road Journals - The Ride Home
Daryls Big Wreck
Gramps Puts One Over On Me
Gramps Puts One Over On My
First Solo Deer Hunt
Relatives
Sis Gets Her Horse
I Discover Beer.
Uncle Earl
Fishing
Limrats N Me
Me N Jim Corbett
Tire Rides
Cowboy Movies I Shouldnt Have Seen
I See My First Nekid Woman.
My Motorbike
Learning To Drive
Holidays Past
One July 4TH.
Found Some Golf Clubs
My New Hobby
City Cousin Visits Grandpas Farm
Whiskey Run
Christmas-1945
Missing The Simply Times...
Double Trouble
Grandparents
An Ice Cream Summer Day
Uncle Clete
I Almost Kill Granny
First Deer Hunt
Our Pond
Already Grown
At My Dads General Store
Re-Living My Childhood
Entertainment
The Feather Piller
As A Child
That Old House
Cooking Breakfast
Childhood Memories 1945
Dry Land Farm
My Childhood Of My Great Farm Visits
Mid-Night Cannonball
No Water???
Grandmas Homemede Jelly
Farming In 1930S In Oklahoma
Cotton Fields
Memories Of My Childhood
William Gray
Visit To Grandpa And Grandmas House
The Gathering
The Long Dusty Road
Home Made Ice Cream And Fire Flies
Grandmaws Apron
Fire Bug
Caterpillars
M.L. Mclemores Lone Star Baste
Dads Monumont----The Log Barn
My Tonsillectomy
Moms Big Dance & The Alfalfa Patch
The Button Box
My Country Boyhood
Popping Popcorn In The Fireplace
What I Want For Christmas
Grans Christmas Letter
Staying On The Farm
Future Memories
Thanks For Your Time
Country Memory
Map Names
That Damn Horse
Home Repairs
Afternoon Smile...
Smut
Tornado
Penny And The Copperhead
A Scream In The Night
The Old Fleming Oak
Overcome With Memories
Grandaddys Garden
The Old Log Barn
The Chicken House
Old Time Radio
My Journey
Apple-Butter Makin Time
Going To The Family Ranch
Slop Happy
Cyclone
A Childhood,Wooden Clothes Washer
Before Electricity
Flying Cat
Courtship Of Aunt Kate
Dreams Of The Alamo
Memory - First Movie
Rabbits Cooking,Grandma Said
Bozo
Mystery Journey
Mystery Trip
Childhood Farm Memories
Keep the Fences High and Tight
Goin Downtown
A Day Of Shopping
The Great Outdoors
My First Trip to the Bakery
Memory Skates
When I was 9
My First Cow Milking
Childhood Memories Shopping for Mother
My first bicycle
Theres still Country in Calif.
More modern memories
A Pan of Brownies
Life on a Dairy Farm
The Draught Pony
Hog Killin Time at my Granny n Papas.
Hollywood Candy Bars
Model T Hay Wagon
In Response to John in Ca
Memory of the Country
Potato Patch
My First Pony
W C F L
Kingfisher, High School
Trapping Days
Ocean spray days..
The Final Crop
Grandfathers horse and buggy
Hogs in the road
Life in rural Pa. in the fortys
Log houses
way back when cont.
Way back when
Fishin Peabody Creek Canyon
Uncle Toms Legend of the Bloody Hand
SCOOTER TRIP/ BOSSIER CITY LA TO TALLADEGA ALABAMA
Country Childhood
Reply to Uncle Tom
In Memory of Uncle Tom Wertz, Bedford, Pa.
Hornets
Reply to A Memory of being a kid. by Joe the Wrangler.
Fast Runner
The Haunted Tractor

Alabama Dreamin - a childhood memory.....
Goats and Bees Dont Mix
Starting School in the Fall
School
A Memory of Being a Kid
Smart Mule
Poor Mans Way of Working Cattle
Swarm
Snakes, Bugs and Outhouses
Fond Memories Growing Up in the 70s
Uncle Joe and Aunt Gracie
The Old Home Comfort Wood Cookstove.
Grandpas Farm
Ah, Those Old Harvest Day......
Kid Pranks or Outhouse Candy
The Bees Knees
Learning to be Country.
Our Farm
Last Night I Dreamed of the Ledbetter Fields
Jim Dandy
Summer Visits At My Grandma's
The Sentinels
Just Helpin Out
Mud, Mud Everywhere
Papa's M
Lost Melody
Nephew on the Farm
Ethans First G
Hay Jumping
Bees in the Bonnet
We Didn't Learn That in the City
Mixed Breed Ducks
Childhood Memories, Present Day Realities
City Chickens
Homemade Rootbeer
Just Growing Up
Early 1900s Telling
The Forgotten Way
Easy Does It
The Threshing Ring
Uncle Tyrus
Before TV
From City to Country
I Missed the Farm
Fathers
Father-Student, Son-Teacher
Plowing, or How I Became a Fathead
Thinking Back, My First Nine Years of Joy.
Going to the Grain Elevator with Grandpa
Ryans Cross Roads
Grandpas Animals
Life Before Electricity
The Early 50s on a Florida Ranch
Farm Memories - Circa 1952
Growing Up On An Iowa Farm
Growing Up On A Farm in Missouri
Growing up on a Small Farm in the 50s and 60s
Grandma's North Dakota
Raising Pigs in the House
The Three Holer
The Life and Times of Mary Porter
First Time I Drove a Tractor
The First Day I Drove Grandpas Pickup on the Farm
The Old Wood Cook Stove
Mom Could Not Believe It
My Mother Always Did It...
The Old Farmhouse
Memories of Dela Handy Just After Civil War

Add Your Own Memories

Edible Cookie Basket Recipe for Non Traditional Easter Basket

2010-03-28T22:18:00.008-04:00

Click Photo to Enlarge

Received this in the mail years ago ... a Company was attempting to get me to join their Recipe Club. Those who are interested in making and filling a non traditional Easter Basket this year may find these Scanned Recipes Ideas a good starting point .... and a fun Family Project over the Spring Break. Wonder how other Cookie Cutters would work? Might come up with some interesting designs. If anyone makes these, send me your photos and I will show them.

Click Photo to Enlarge

Enjoy!

Enough Recipes for now... Will be starting another Topic in next Blog.

Easy Gourmet Jelly Bean Bark Recipe

2010-03-24T01:11:00.006-04:00

Again... for those interested in filling an Easter Basket with Home Cooking, here is another suggestion:

Easy Gourmet Jelly Bean Bark

1 12 oz Bag Milk Chocolate Chips *Dark or White Chocolate works just as well
1 Cup Gourmet Jelly Beans *or regular Jelly Beans for those on a Budget
Wax Paper

Pour Chocolate Chips into a 2 Cup Glass Measuring Cup and microwave 2 to 4 minutes, until barely melted, being careful not to over cook. OR melt on top of a double boiler. Stir to make sure chips are completed melted.

Pour 2 inch puddles of Chocolate unto wax paper, spreading it out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using your favorite flavors, while still hot, sprinkle about 15 tiny beans on each, pressing beans lightly into the Chocolate. Allow to cool completely. Makes about 8 Pieces.

I have not tried this yet... but am considering pouring a thin layer of Chocolate inside of Easter Shaped Cookie Cutters and leaving them until they harden. If this works, will try it within other Cookie Cutters... using melted Chocolate Bars which I will premix with cracked Nuts, Peppermint or other delectable Candies; and simply pour the entire mixture into the cookie cutters to harden, may leave them in the Cookie Cutter and give them away as Gifts. OR I am also considering pouring the entire mixture onto a wax paper lined rimmed Cookie Sheet or Jelly Roll Pan, and then using a heated Metal Cookie Cutter to cut out the shapes .... naturally all scraps and broken pieces can be eaten as well.

~~ The Resource Links added here are predominately for the benefit of those who are new or adventurous cooks ... some of these items can be found in your local Grocer, Discount or WalMart type of store for those who want to be frugal. ~~

Happy Cooking ... Enjoy!

Mom's Peanut Butter Fudge

2010-03-22T01:11:00.007-04:00

When I think of sweet Comfort Food, I think of our Mom's Peanut Butter Fudge. If your looking for something especially yummy to add to a Non Traditional Easter Basket, you may want to consider this easy Recipe:

Virginia's Peanut Butter Fudge*

2 Cups of Sugar
1 16 Ounce Bag Large Marshmallows
2/3 Cup Evaporated Milk
1/4 Cup of Butter
1 Tsp Vanilla
1/4 Tsp Salt
1 Cup Peanut Butter (Or* 6 Ounces bag of Chocolate Chips)

Combine sugar, milk and butter in sauce pan and simmer until melted. Cover top, bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Add the rest of the ingredients minus the Vanilla. Cook until melted, then add Vanilla. Pour mixture into greased small square dish. Refrigerate until firm. This Peanut Butter Fudge melts in our mouth.

~~ The Resource Links added here are predominately for the benefit of those who are new or adventurous cooks ... some of these items can be found in your local Grocer, Discount or WalMart type of store for those who want to be frugal. ~~

Happy Cooking ... Enjoy!

Variations on Homemade Chocolate Covered Pretzels

2010-03-20T01:11:00.020-04:00

Those interested in filling Easter Baskets with Homemade Items may want to consider this tasty Recipe. Children will enjoy helping you make these Chocolate Covered Pretzels any time of the year, This is also a good way to use up left over sprinkles from Christmas Baking.

Hazelnut Chocolate Covered Pretzels*

2-6 Hazelnut Chocolate Bars *
Bag of thin Pretzels
Wax Paper

*OR if you prefer you can use the Chocolate Bar of your choice adding in your own crushed and ground Hazelnuts or the nut of your choice. Can be made without nuts, with sprinkles or other candies substituted. Melted peanut butter, caramel or marshmallow cream can be drizzled over them for those who are adventurous. A half of a cup of Crunchy Peanut Butter can be added for every 3 Bars of plain Chocolate.

Melt Chocolate Bars in double boiler or with a homemade double boiler or a heavy botton pot with a diffuser stirring frequently. If using a diffuser, after the chocolate is melted, you must keep it melted by placing the sauce pot in hot water. Do not allow hot water to overflow into the pot!

Using appetizer tongs, dip pretzels into melted chocolate then place on wax paper to dry. Sprinkle with additional nuts or fun topping of choice if desired. If in a hurry, place wax paper on a platter and place in freezer or refrigerator.

This makes a great Gift Idea for any time of the year. I especially enjoy making them to give to our Neighbors during the Christmas and New Year Holiday Season.

~~ The Resource Links added here are predominately for the benefit of those who are new or adventurous cooks ... some of these items can be found in your local Grocer, Discount or WalMart type of store for those who want to be frugal. ~~

Enjoy! Happy Cooking

Readers Request; Tasty Recipe to use up Left Over Crackers

2010-03-18T15:53:00.009-04:00

Below is a Recipe for Heather who just had her first baby ... "Brodie". It's a Boy! Congratulations Sweetie... you sure have grown up since we first met at Listening Heart Farm Bed and Breakfast.

Heather has requested a Toffee Syrup Cookie Recipe made with left over crackers she tasted when she was a Guest at Listening Heart Farm Bed and Breakfast. Children and Adults both like this unique Recipe. This Recipe was originally served to me by Toby, the wife of Michael... The Pastor of Lion of Judah Messianic Church, back in the 1980's.

Toby's Toffee Crunch Cookies

Enough Saltines Cracker to fill a Foil Lined Cookie Sheet *about 40
1 Cup Sugar (white or brown)
1/4 Cup Water
2 Sticks Butter (use one stick for cruncher cookies)
Small Bag Chocolate Chips

Preheat Oven To 425 degrees. Lay out the Crackers on a Foil Lined Cookie Sheet, back to back. The Cookie Sheet will need to have a rim. A Jelly Roll Pan will work too. Bring Sugar, Water and Butter to a boil and stirring continually, boil about 5 minutes. Slowly pour hot syrup mixture over Crackers which are laid out on the Foil lined Cookie Sheet, covering them evenly. Bake 5 Minutes. Remove from Oven ... immediately sprinkle Chocolate Chips on top, smearing them over the Cookies as they melt with a Spatula or the back of a spoon. Refrigerate or freeze till hard, about 15 minutes. When cold, break them into pieces like Peanut Brittle. If the Chocolate does not melt all of the way, you can put the tray back in Oven for a minute or so to help in this process.

Options, sprinkle crushed nuts over melted chocolate, I prefer Hazelnuts. You can vary the Recipe by using the left over Crackers of your choice; Graham Crackers will make this cookie even sweeter. Personally I find it sweet enough without the Graham Cracker ... but would suggest if you use Graham Crackers, that you try making them similar to Smores by drizzling melted Marshmallow Creme on top. This is also a good way to use up Stale Crackers as once they are baked, the heat and moisture freshens them.

~~ The Resource Links added here are predominately for the benefit of those who are new or adventurous cooks ... some of these items can be found in your local Grocer, Discount or WalMart type of store for those who want to be frugal. ~~

Next: Recipes for those looking to fill non traditional Easter Baskets.

Enjoy and Happy Baking!

Readers Request: ANOTHER 'Death By Chocolate' Recipe

2010-03-16T01:11:00.004-04:00

After reading my 'Mississippi Mud' Recipe, a long time friend Brenda asked for one of My Favorite 'No Bake Cookie' Recipe. Can't remember where this Recipe came from:

No Bake Fudge Cookies

1 stick Butter
1/2 Cup Peanut Butter
2 1/2 Cup Sugar
1/2 Cup Cocoa
1 Cup Milk
1 Tsp Vanilla
2 1/2 Cups Oatmeal
2/3 Cups Coconut

Melt together the first two ingredients before stirring in sugar and cocoa. Mix them in well before adding Milk. Simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes... until the mixture comes to a hard ball stage. Add Vanilla after this and mix well.

Dump Oatmeal and Coconut on top of mixture and stir in well... simmering about 2 more minutes. Do not allow to scorch.

Dollip onto a cookie sheet the sizes you desire. *bite size or cookie size. Allow them to harden before storing in a sealed container. Do not allow to cool in pan... will harden quickly.

Makes a great gift of a dozen or more cookies.

Enjoy and Happy Cooking!

Seeking and Surrendering To God's Wisdom

2010-03-14T01:11:00.008-05:00

'Jesus, You teach those who have ears to hear Your Voice, it is wisdom to seek first Your Kingdom and Righteousness and in the doing all things will work out for the good.' was the beginning of my prayer.

I had written a check unaware my husband has written one too. After a time of separation, we were trying to work things out with God's help; communication was obviously one of the things we were being shown we needed to work on first. I was particularly distressed my check was going to bounce because due to my driving on a bad inspection ticket, it was to pay a fine to the Police Department. I was sure I would be arrested if God did not intervene and show me what to do next.

Being a newborn in my spiritual understanding, I was trying to stand on my own two feet and I did not have a peace about borrowing money when our vehicle failed inspection. Knowing my family was concerned that I had taken my Husband back after becoming a born again Believer, deterred me from seeking help from them. In days gone by... I had borrowed more than I cared to and I had made a decision not to do so this time; thinking that would be what God expected of me as we began this new life together in the Spirit.

Before learning the lesson of Presumption, when our sole Vehicle failed inspection, without seeking the Lord's will and wisdom on the matter, I presumed I already knew it and asked Father if he would keep me from being pulled over and stepped out with the hope and assumption he would protect me as I drove back and forth to work. To think otherwise, filled my mind with worst case scenarios. Like others I have met since, I presumed I had no other recourse than to drive it to work with a bad inspection ticket and take my chances ... I needed to keep my job, if I lost that, I'd loose my Apt. I needed money to make the car legal... so I assumed under the circumstances, the wisest thing to do would be to just drive it back and forth to work. I had no problem walking everywhere else and was conscientious about this because I was given a desire that my life to be lived with integrity.

I was surprised when I was pulled over... and sought the mind of the Lord as to why this was allowed. His Holy Spirit convicted me of my foolishness in not asking and listening for His Guidance and will first... teaching me a valuable lesson on assumption. He also revealed to me that His will, will vary from day to day and urged me to seek it daily and not project from my past as He taught me various lessons during my spiritual journey of faith.

I continued my prayer... repenting for not seeking His wisdom and will first, (once again, would the Spiritual Habit before formed I wondered) and sought His provision in the doing. As I listened intently I was given the gift of faith to believe that He was going to provide in an miraculous way and all I needed to do for now was to trust Him. I was told I was to trust in His love and His desire to provide without my having to turn to others first in my times of need. I was encouraged to ask for His manifested will and power before I began each day, henceforth as He reminded me, He has a plan which is unfolding, which is motivated by love and His omniscience presence, power and authority as HE raises me Spiritually in the way I am to go. I fully expected something to happen and would not have been surprised had an Angel appeared... the faith I had received as I listened was so strong.

Instead... I received a letter from the Police Department. The Officer on my case had been dismissed due to corruption and all of his cases were being thrown out and they were returning my uncashed check.

Years later... after learning experientially, the Spirit of God desires for us to trust Him and that He has a plan which is unfolding for wondrous purposes, in the midst of oppression, I was given an Angelic Encounter. During that Encounter... I received the understanding, the time would come when I would be sharing such testimonies as above, to encourage those who are struggling and seeking His truth and wisdom for their own lives. I understood part of His Plan for my life was for me to comfort and encourage with the comfort and wisdom He has given me, and in the doing... offer hope to those who are seeking Spiritual Truth and a intimate relationship with their Creator ... to inspire them the reach out to HIM for themselves. For those interested in such testimonies... know, it is my hope I will be inspired to share such here, in future blogs.

For now... may you be given the will to receive the fullness which is your as a child of God, with all your heart... and be an encouragement in the doing.

Learning Life's Spiritual Lessons with Joyous Outcomes

2010-03-12T01:11:00.004-05:00

When I got my first bad tooth ache... I asked the Lord if it was His will to heal me of this.

Having been healed of a *Tubular Pregnacy with a Creative Miracle, I knew HE could do something similar regarding my tooth if that was part of His Spiritual Plan for my life's lessons at this time. As I sought His mind on this occasion I remembered a time I was scheduled for Surgery for a Herniated Disc. Upon seeking the mind of the Lord as to whether this was His will or not... I heard in my Spirit, 'Be obedient to the Doctor and you will not need Surgery.'

The Dr said, 'You're too inflamed for the Surgery. We will schedule it for two weeks from now. In the meantime rest, avoid all stairs and don't pick up anything heavier than a 5 pound bag of potatoes, Take this for pain and................'

I was obedient to the Lord's revealed will and the surgery was canceled. Although back problems run in our family and I had major back issues previous to this... since that day I only get occasional back aches. For such I am truly grateful! Now, when I know of others going though situations similar to mine, I pray with compassion in hopes they too will reach out to receive of the fullness of His will for them, hopefully through an intimate relationship which imparts joy and an inner knowing which births peace.

On this occasion, as stated, I was waiting upon the Lord to show me if it was His will to heal my tooth and what my part would be if any. Initially I received no direction. When the pain got to the point where I could no longer bare it... a strong impression of a Phone Book and the words, 'It's time to find a Dentist.' came to mind.

Before opening the Phone Book, I asked for the one of His choice and for His provision regarding the payment of the Bill, as my account was empty. A Dentist's name leapt off the page and I called for an Appointment. I told the Dentist my concern was not just the tooth, I was in need of setting up a payment plan, if he was willing to work something out. Otherwise I would call around. He set up the Appointment for Sunday... although I was grateful, I was stressed me out because I knew emergency rates were higher. A feeling of being overwhelmed financially began to overtake me, but I renounced it and chose to trust He would work it all out for the good ... a Revelation He made alive in My Spirit and causes me to experience as His Truth for my life.

Upon arriving at the Dentist, I tried to discuss the payment issue in advance... but was ushered back to the Dental Chair instead.

Perhaps you can imagine my awe when upon completion the Dentist said, 'I am a Christian. Any work I do on Sunday I do in the name of Lord Jesus Christ. There will be no fee. Consider this a gift from God.'

A lesson in learning the Difference between Faith and Presumption

2010-03-10T01:11:00.005-05:00

After being healed supernaturally of a Tubular Pregnancy... the Pastor of the Church I was visiting spoke of a healing in his own life and healings of other Pastors. He gave Testimony of a recent time when he was taking an Eye Exam at DMV. He said he had been given the Gift of Faith to believe God was going to heal his eyes when he took his eye exam. When it was his turn he took off his glasses and tried to read the letters. As the woman behind the counter asked him if he could see the letters he'd respond, 'I believe I can see'.

The letters did not come into focus until this woman frustrated, finally said, 'Then read the letters!'

In his enthusiasm, this Pastor then encouraged us to step out in faith and line up near the Pulpit and allow himself or one of the Church Leaders to lay hands on us that we might receive the healing power of God, based upon New Testament Scriptures.

My eyesight was in need of healing, so after that Sermon every time there was a healing line, I stepped out for the healing of my eyes, but nothing happened. One Person said I did not have enough faith, so I needed to envision the healing and to prove I believed by stepping out in faith and taking off my glasses and claiming it, for it to come into being. Assuming as a Leader they knew best and remembering the Testimony of the Pastor, as a new Believer this made sense. Presuming this is what God would want, without seeking His truth of the matter for myself, I took off my glasses and stumbled around ... naming and claiming my physical healing for a period of time. Meanwhile, this Pastor continued teaching Sermons on the healing power of God and our Spiritual Authority as born again Believers. I knew God heals experientially already, so my heart bore witness to His healing power. The Revelation of claiming my Spiritual Authority through my union with Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. was one which was new and I embraced it with the understanding of a Spiritual Infant. When some of us did not get our healing right away, Pastor taught us to keep claiming it with positive confessions and prayers of spiritual warfare. Eventually he also taught that we must be in need of seeking God as to which sin was keeping us from getting our healing. Nothing the Pastor told me to do worked and I was beginning to become swallowed up in condemnati. I became confused. Realizing condemnation and confusion are not fruits of the Holy Spirit, I found my self at a loss as to what to do. About that time we were told we just did not have enough faith and we needed to seek the Spirit of the Lord for more ... Fasting and deliverance was recommended.

Upon hearing this, I sensed a need to take a Sabbatical and chose to fast and pray alone at that time. After asking for a word from the Spirit of the Lord regarding Father's mind on these matters, I waiting with a listening heart. I prayed in tongues with a sense of expectancy, but had no preconceived expectations. Eventually I fell asleep...

I woke up hearing the words, 'Having your feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace,' and realized I had lost the peace Jesus had originally imparted and was in need of having it renewed.

Next I heard, 'The Word of the Lord came unto Jeremiah. The Word of the Lord came unto Ezekiel, The Word of the Lord came unto Isaiah and Moses ... The word of the Lord did not come to you and tell you to take off your glasses and claim My healing power with Spiritual Authority. Put your glasses back on.'

I am reminded of a dream I had where as a little child I was trying to wield a Giant Sword. When I awoke from the dream I was given the impression, I needed to grow before I could pick up the Sword and use it with Authority.

When I realized I was walking in presumption, I reacted with anger. I asked Father, 'After I asked to be led to the Church of Your choice, with the hopes the Holy Spirit would lead me into all truth, why did You allow all of that to take place?'

In response heard, 'I needed to expose the part of your Adamic nature which wants to be God, before we could move on together, enabling you to come up higher in your Spiritual Awareness. Release it to Me... as children of God you are my inheritance, you are not God. You are not to ride on another's Coat Tails nor to presume based upon another's Testimony. Seek Me and My will of the moment first. Put your trust in Me not a man or their teachings, not in your belief, or your inherent right to My power as a Child of God. Come to ME directly first. I will reveal and confirm my Truth. I will reveal My will with wondrous signs following...'

Humbled... I have sought to do so as His child who is aware I am growing in Spirit and Truth according to His plan for my life. I understand better these days what it means to die daily to the old ways of being, perceptions and preconditioning before I was born of the Holy Spirit, that I might embrace the new life with His regenerative power and all He desires having offered such.

A Creative Miracle...

2010-03-08T14:00:00.005-05:00

In the previous post 'Readers Request: A 'Death by Chocolate' Recipe, I mentioned the person who requested the Recipe was in need of prayer for cancer. I also named a new few others who are desirous of a Miracle. By way of encouragement to them and other's with a desire for a genuine Miracle; and for the benefit of those who are seeking for themselves the Truths of God, at this time I am being inspired to share a Testimony of a Miracle Healing in my own life. (an excerpt from my Draft Manuscript).

At the beginning of my Spiritual Journey of Faith in 1978, I began experiencing pain in my side... it was excruciating. It felt like acid burning deep within. I went to the Doctors and was diagnosed with a Tubular Pregnancy. I was shocked to discover I was Pregnant again, even through I was on the Birth Control Pill. I was equally shocked, because I was also unaware a Woman could become Pregnant in her Fallopian Tube … The Doctor scheduled me for Surgery as soon as possible. I was afraid...

When I mentioned to someone at a Church I was led to attend as a new Believer that I was in need of Surgery and how I was afraid, they suggested that I open the New Testament and read about the healing power of Jesus.

Before reading, I asked the Spirit of the Lord to speak to me and reveal Father's will for my life. This was a new way of being for me.... it was not until after I received the Holy Spirit through a Born Again Experience, that I became aware this was His desire for my life ... and one of the secrets to having an intimate spiritual relationship with Him.

As I read, I was shocked to read how, in His desire to manifest Father's will for us Jesus ignored the protests of the Religious Leaders of His day and openly healed and delivered people from bondage while urging, 'only believe'. I wondered why they protested and how could they think such Miracles are from the Devil. He would reveal such to me as I grew in Spirit and Truth, it was a necessary part of His plan... so the whole world could eventually have their eyes opened to the Truth of their need of a Messiah and the New Covenant offered through Him.

While reading I thought,

Of course, God made this body... He can heal it!

My Faith having been increased through reading Scriptures of our Creator's desire to heal and deliver us from the bondages which kept us from knowing His truth, I was moved to pour out my heart, "Heavenly Father, I have Surgery scheduled, and I am afraid. You know all the facts. You made this body… You can heal it. The Bible shows how Jesus healed people in Your Name boldly revealing Your will, urging them to have faith. Recently, through Jesus imparting the Revelation of You and Your Holy Spirit with the gift of faith, You revealed YourSelf and gave me Your Holy Spirit so I could be empowered by Your Spirit to receive Your will for my life. When You empowered me with the gift of the Holy Spirit, You manifested it with a gift of Prayer ... so I am going to just sit here and yield to the words of the Holy Spirit within, with the special language His Spirit prays as I do... while I wait for Your will to be done."

Since this Prayer Language comes with ease I began fully expecting to be healed... or for something to happen to reveal to me why not. I was becoming use to the Holy Spirit dropping Revelations into my Spirit via impressions, leaving me with a knowing which brought peace and joy. I had only actually heard Father's Voice audibly at our initial encounter, so I did not expect Him to speak directly. As I prayed with the Gift of Prayer in a Tongue unknown to me, perhaps you can imagine my surprise when I began to notice a Gentle voice speaking from deep within. It was repeating, "Go off of the pill."

I remember responding with the question... "Go off of the pill?"

I will never forget what I heard next. God's Spirit spoke from deep within with the words, "I am the Creator of life and Death, all that is. I desire for you to trust Me with your entire life... including your Birth Control, you no longer have need of it. You know My plan for you is good and not evil. Having surrendered your Life to Me for My purposes you know you are not the one in control. It would be foolish for you to use birth control. IF I desire a Life to come forth... it will... if this is not my plan for your Life, it won't. All you need do is trust Me and in My purposes for you and them."

It was then His Spirit reminded me of my previous Pregnancies and the ways in which they had been conceived ... as well as their outcome. Through the eyes of hindsight, I could see, no attempt on my part had empowered me to prevent them, nor to make them happen according to my plan. I recognized as well, I had always wanted His will to be done, on some level deep. Realizing I had not really known what was best for my future ... I only thought I did ... I now understood that God simply wanted me to trust in His Loving plan. Surrendering to this awareness... I came to a place of deeper peace and joy within. I felt secure in His unconditional love... a love He had told me on our first encounter, 'I could not earn nor destroy'.

Upon receiving His understanding, I was able to surrender to His will and receive with faith. Once I did, the excruciating pain left immediately, never to return.

When I went to the Doctors, upon examining me he found no sign of a Pregnancy... so I shyly revealed to him my experience. Although I knew I was healed, and was praying God would reveal Himself and His healing power to the Doctor through this event, what he said next surprised and encouraged me, "This has to be a Miracle! If I had misdiagnosed you, a Cyst or Tumor of that size upon bursting... would have sent poison throughout your body and you would be dead. I am beginning to have a lot of Women who are coming into my office who also say they have been healed after Prayer... so 'who am I' to say you all are wrong. I myself, have no other explanation."

READERS REQUESTS: A 'DEATH BY CHOCOLATE' RECIPE

2010-03-03T19:50:00.021-05:00

When I was an Inn Keeper and Chef at Listening Heart Farm Bed and Breakfast... and Guests asked me to bake them something special; 'Death by Chocolate' was usually in their descriptions of what they wanted. Below is a Recipe given to me by my long time friend Randue back in the 1980's that always fit the bill. I am posting it at the request of a newer friend, Gordon. He says when he's depressed he uses Chocolate as a pick me up ... Gordon is battling with Prostate Cancer... and wants to thank anyone in advance who would say a prayer in his behalf. If you would include Urba, Walter, Barb, Sherry and Laurie ... all those in such a battle, I know they are hoping to be cancer survivors too! Father we ask and thank You for the gift of a Miracle according to Your Will and Timing.

Randues' Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe

1 Box Pillsbury Plus Devils Food Cake
8 Ounce Cream Cheese
1 Cup Sugar
1 Egg
1 Tsp Vanilla
12 Ounce Bag Chocolate Chips

Mix Cake according to directions on box. Blend the rest of the ingredients together. Fold in Cream Cheese Mixture. Bake 30-40 Minutes til top firm. Cool on a cooling rack before Frosting.

Randues' Mississippi Mud Frosting

2 Packages Dream Whip
1 1/2 Cup Milk
1 Pack Fudge Instant Pudding

Mix together well.

Option: 1 cup of chopped Walnuts can be added to cake or frosting or both.

ADDED TREAT: Here is an excerpt of a Blog with another Mississippi Mud Cake Recipe, that one is made from Scratch, just discovered it while looking for an Image to post. If anyone tries it or has other's to recommend, do leave a comment.

A Muddy Cake Story.

Today, July 13^th

I discovered that today is the anniversary in 1832 of the source of the Mississippi River, for which we must all be very grateful, as otherwise we might not have Mississippi Mud Cake. Thank you Mr. Henry Rowe Schoolcraft.

Recipes are never actually invented, they evolve over time. The Mud Cake is a fairly new species which seems to have sprung off the American parental tree in the early 1970’s, along with its cousin, The Mud Pie. Its ancestors are the Brownie (a mud cake is a more sensible sized brownie, that is all) and Fudge, but there must be a few rogue genes in there too, as the early 1970’s recipes for Mud Cake also contain marshmallow.

This particular type of Mud Cake either never migrated to region Australia, or when it did, the marshmallow was removed, for all of the Aussie Mud Cakes I have met are entirely marshmallow-free (which makes them purer and better, to my mind, but you may disagree.

Every family has its black sheep, and at some time after the birth of the Mud Cake there sprang up something called Dirt Cake. I have never come across a live specimen, but in the interests of culinary history, sought out a recipe for you. It has an ingredient called ‘chocolate pudding mix’ in it, as well as broken up commercial biscuits (Oreos, which I believe are quite revered in their homeland), and I confess I could go no further. I am not sure what ‘chocolate pudding mix’ is, but I am pretty sure I wouldn’t like it, and I am very sure it has no place in a cake. Call me a purist. Call me a snob. Just don’t call me to the table and make me eat chocolate pudding made from a mix.

I would, however, be more than willing to sample this recipe....."

For the Recipe please check out this link worth mentioning The Old Foodie

Enjoy ... Happy Baking!

UPDATE: Since creating this Blog I have been asked to post my Favorite No Bake Cookie Recipe by a Friend who tasted it while visiting our home. Plan to do so in about 3-4 blogs from now... as to do so sooner will interrupt the flow of its spiritual continuity. Thanks for your patience my Friend......

3 Easy Read Children Book Reviews:

2010-03-01T01:11:00.004-05:00

My 18 month old Grand Daughter really enjoyed reading Tickle the Duck by Ethan Long with me. We laughed together as she tickled the various fabrics used on this Board Book. I thought this was a very creative way to play while reading. Ethan Long has other books such as 'Stop Kissing Me' and 'Duck's Not Afraid of the Dark', as well.

She especially enjoyed reading Ten Little Ladybugs by Melanie Gerth, illustrated by Laura Huliska-beith. Not only did she like reading this Board Book with me, she carried it around and read it over and over alone. The Ladybugs used in this book are made of hard plastic and the pictures are very colorful. The Book begins with 10 little lady bugs inside of a hole and as the child turns the page, they count down until there is only one ladybug in a hole. She liked touching them and trying to pick them up.

Duck and Goose, How are you Feeling? by Tad Hills is an excellent beginners book on teaching your Toddler about 'feelings'. It has bright and colorful pictures which illustrates with body language feelings, such as happy and sad, loving and scared and more.... it's a great book to help a little one identify feelings. I checked this one out of the Library with the intention of reading it to my Grand Daughter over SKYPE (she lives an hour and half away), something we both enjoy.

Although these are Board Books they can be read by different age children as the subject matter will span over several age groups and can also be used to teach 'first words' so eventually an older sibling can read to a younger one. Good gift ideas too!

I found all of these Books at our Local Library

DVD Reviews: Once Upon a Potty ~ His and Her Toilet Training DVD's

2010-02-28T12:12:00.004-05:00

Once Upon a Potty for her and Once Upon a Potty for him are Music DVD's... they have a song children happily sing about going potty while there are head shots of them waiting on their Potty Seat for the 'poo poo' which, the Mommy who narrates the animated aspects of this story explains takes a little longer. Once accomplished... the animated Mommy and Daddy empty the potty seat and along with their daughter tell the poo poo and wee wee bye bye as it is flushed away. Having raised 3 children of my own. I remember reading in advance, this aspect of Potty Training could cause fear and trauma if not handled properly, so I was pleased to see the gracious way this was dealt with in this informative Video which helps to make going potty seem like something fun to do. I am presuming the Father is the main Voice in the Once Upon a Potty Video for him.

The DVD begins with a Package the Grandmother has sent in the mail of a animated Potty Seat. The DVD repeats the 'Going Potty' Song in various scenarios with live children, which helps to keep the child who is watching entertained ... I discovered these DVD's in our local Library while checking out Items to take with me for our 18 month old Grand Daughter, on a recent visit. *this is a great place to get Counting Song CD's, Picture Books and DVD's for those who are on a budget ... and these DVD' make a great inexpensive gift idea*. She enjoyed watching it several times during my visit ... and hopefully it set the stage for when her body is mature enough to warn her in advance, it's time to ask for help 'going potty'.

Happy Potty Training!

Reader Requests: Seed Starter Tips

2010-02-27T01:11:00.015-05:00

Rather than write an Article today on Seed Starting, I decided to recommend this Blog from a Follower who has been starting seeds in her Greenhouse for many years: http://riosambagardening.blogspot.com/

Although I have been starting seeds for years... I start my seeds in Windows in our home, custom built with that in mind... for those of you who have Sun Rooms, don't be afraid to use them as a Grow Room too. I may do an article on small scale seed starting with Frugal Tips in another Blog especially if there are questions that need to be answered at Readers Requests ... in the meantime there are lots of tips here to 'get you started' *wink I suggest for the small scale seed starter you begin with Tomatoes, Peppers and Melons... as they take a while before they mature and by starting them indoors early, you will have an earlier and thus larger harvest.

Below is an Excerpt from Riosamba's Blog Joy of Gardening ... do visit it and check out her other Articles and Fabulous Photos. Here are some of her other Blogs which are links worth mentioning: My Favorite Recipes Riosamba's Zazzle Store Book Worm Book Reviews

SEED STARTING

Growing your own seeds is fun and easy. I have been sowing my seeds in the greenhouse for many years. Timing is critical for success. Soon I will be sowing peas in a reusable polystyrene trays with individualized pyramid shaped cells which virtually eliminate transplant shock. I have been using this type of tray for several years. You may find the trays herehttp://www.groworganic.com/ , those mushroom containers, milk carton, tofu containers, yogurt/pudding cups, they are all perfect for seeds starting. First you need to clean the containers with a solution of 9 parts of water and 1 part of chlorine bleach, followed by thorough rinse with water. The picture on the left is the polystyrene tray where I sow garden pea seeds.

Need to remember too, peppers, eggplants, tomatoes are slow germinating. You want this to start early, especially when summer is short in your area. I sowed tomato seeds in March, peppers a little bit early in January. The peppers have germinated well, I spray them with chamomile tea to prevent damping off a fungus type disease. Broccoli and cauliflower sowed in the greenhouse as well as herb seeds later this month. The rest such as summer squash, pumpkins, lettuce, collards, kales, carrots all directly sowed in the garden.

Use sterile soiless seed starting mixes. Either you make them yourself or store bought. Do not use garden soil as this contains weed seed, harbor diseases and tend to be muddy, hard and reducing germination and root growth. Seed-starting mix containing sphagnum, vermiculite, limestone, and gypsum.

Read the seed packet for intructions and carefully determine when you have to start sowing, and tinning the seedlings. Germination can vary from few days to several weeks. This depending on what variety of seeds you are sowing. With my experience, you need to sow the seed thinly, over crowding will produce weak seedlings. Into medium barely cover seed with starting soil and gently press into mixture.

Label and date each variety as you work. This is important, if not you will forget which variety of seed you sowed. Water lightly with a spray bottle. Keep the soil moist as this important for gemination. Then cover flats with clear plastic and keep out of direct sunlight.

Remember to remove cover for an hour or two everyday to provide air circulation. Most seeds germinate well between 70-75F. I used heating cable that is burried under soil and the containers or flats I rest on it. It worked well as long as you keep the heating cable on all the time. Don't forget to remove covers once 50 to 70% germinated. Remove flats or containers from heat to prevent seedlings grow thin and leggy.

Place seedlings in a bright, sunny window or if you are lucky a greenhouse. If you do not have adequate light use artificial light 12 to 14 hours each day. I used plant fluorescent light in the green house after dusk. I keep checking the seedlings for fungus diasese. This is their crucial time. Seedlings require little fertilizer. As they mature apply your favorite fertilizer

It is so much easier to thin seedling when they are larger. generaly 1-2" tall. Thinning is necessary to prevent crowding.

Before transplanting in the garden, acclimate the seedlings outdoors 1to 2 weeks, this is called hardening off. Select spot out of direct sunlight and away from wind. If nights are still cold bring them inside. After several days, provide 3 to 4 hours direct morning or afternoon sun. Gradually increase daily exposure to sunlight.

Move young plants to garden for transplating preferably on cloudy day or late afternoon to minimize transplanting shock. Set out hardy plants after heavy frost has passed. Set out sensitive plants once night time above 58F. I covered sensitive plants with a sheet when the forcast called for low temperature.

Happy Gardening !

Readers Requests: Moist Banana Bread/Muffin Recipes

2010-02-26T01:11:00.024-05:00

My good Friend Sherry gave this Recipe to us... with a cup of Sour Cream as a thank you gift. The Sour Cream is the 'secret' ingredient which makes it extra moist. It's her Mother Marion's Recipe.

Thanks again Sherry.

I not only made it as a Loaf, but I also added Chocolate Chips and a little extra Banana and made this Recipe into Muffins. If you decide to use extra Banana, nuts and Chocolate Chips in your Banana Bread, you will need to use two small Loaf Pans or one extra large Loaf Pan or it will over flow when it Bakes.

Banana Bread or Muffins

1/2 cup Butter
1 1/4 cup Sugar
1 1/2 tsp Vanilla
1 cup Sour Cream
1 cup mashed ripe Bananas
2 Eggs
2 cups Flour
1 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp Baking Soda
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 c chopped Nuts or more to taste (optional)
small bag Chocolate Chips or more to taste (optional)

Cream together Butter and Sugar in a large Mixing Bowl, add Eggs and beat well.

Mix in Vanilla and Bananas.

*Sift together Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda and Salt.

Add Dry Ingredients a little at a time, alternating it with the Sour Cream, mix till blended well.

Fold in Nuts and/or Chocolate Chips

Pour into greased Loaf Pan, Bake 350 degrees for one hour or until tooth pick comes out clean.

OR... fill greased Muffin Tins 3/4 full (if using paper Baking Cups there is no need to grease Muffin Tins).

Makes 2 dozen.

Bake 350 degrees 12-15 minutes or until tooth pick comes out dry.

*If you do not have a Flour Sifter, you can substitute a Wire Mesh Strainer... shake it over the mixing Bowl and press any left over crumbles with the back of a spoon. Sifting first causes flour recipes to be of a lighter texture and taste, but it is not necessary.

TIP: Ripe Banana's can be frozen in their skin or peeled first and placed in a baggie. When they defrost they will be mushy, perfect for use in baking, puddings and smoothies.

~~ The Resource Links added here are predominately for the benefit of those who are new or adventurous cooks ... some of these items can be found in your local Grocer, Discount or WalMart type of store for those who want to be frugal. ~~

Enjoy and Happy Baking!

No Ordinary Miracle ~ Meditating with My Fingertips

2010-02-24T01:11:00.007-05:00

As I ponder over the memory spoken of in the Previous Blog (please read No Ordinary Miracle first), I am reminded of the moment when God answered my prayer and Evelyn asked me to be a part of her Home Birth experience ... I was delighted to be asked and considered it an Honor; the joy which comes through the privilege of helping to bring new life forth with an awareness of the Presence of our Creator and the unfolding of His Plan for us is indescribable. Such experiences are filled with Sacred Moments that change us. This was not my first Home Birth, nor would it be my last and it appears to have been part of the training needed for when through Father's Sovereign Plan I became a Shepherdess and assisted in the birthing of a Horse on an Easter Morning a few years later. The uniqueness of each Birthing Process be it Human or Animal is a wonder to behold.

While Evelyn's birthing process was taking longer than most... I remember being overcome with a Knowing I needed to take a power nap in preparation for that which was to come ... only to be suddenly awakened by the words 'Death shall not have this little one.' as a sense of urgency overtook my Spirit. I discerned these words had come from the Spirit of the Lord and sensed His Anointing filling me as they sank in.

Upon walking back into Evelyn and Jim's Bedroom the Midwife immediately asked me to sit behind Evelyn, as she was completely exhausted and was in need of merging with the strength within me. The Anointing and strength which energized and flowed through me, was surprising, as I myself was in the middle of a 40 day fast. The unexpected words which came out of my mouth in the midst of the crisis that soon followed astounded me. It was not until I reflected upon these words tonight 20 years later, that I saw Jesus and Lazarus in my Spirit... and realized before His death, Jesus spoke to the Spirit of Lazarus calling him forth from the realm of Death manifesting His Father's power over life and death (Jesus said the works that I do are of the Father's Spirit) ... and almost 2,000 years later, could it be though Evelyn, His Living Spirit within her called forth their Son, Aaron David, a name not previously considered ... up until the moment those unexpected names came out, it was their Family Tradition to begin all their children's first names with an R.

Years later, while rejoicing with our Daughter and her Hubby over the miracle conception of their first child, through their first try, a rare event with In vitro Fertilization, I heard what I have come to recognize as the Voice of God's Spirit say, 'One Hundred and Fifty to Two Hundred Years ago they would not have lived, but due to the advancement of Medicine they will.' I wondered, what will take place? I sensed I was to tell no one but my husband as peace filled my heart, releasing me from the anxiety which only moments before attempted to overtake me. I am reminded today, as a Spiritual Baby I assumed something like In Vitro Fertilization would be humanity playing God...because my elders said so; but as I grew in Spirit and Truth under Father's tutelage, I was given the understanding... it is God's Spirit who is the Source of all that is, Who is the Creator of life and death and our power is limited until He increases it through our Union with His Spirit ... each Generation a little more enlightened than the last, through Christ ... the Anointing of God. I understood, without His Spirit, In Vitro Fertilization would not work.

In my Spirit that day, I also saw our Daughter's water break naturally and knew this would be significant. While in the midst of what the Doctor had determined was False Labor our Daughter was concerned she might not know for sure when she's in labor, I told her what I saw in my Spirit in an effort to assure her all will work out. She smiled politely before replying, 'Mom do you know how seldom a woman's water breaks in advance?'

What appeared to the Doctor on call to be days of False Labor due to no dilation, in reality was infection spreading to different organs within our Daughters body... to include the Placenta. Although flu like symptoms can come with False Labor, this was not discovered until after she was sent home and her water broke, revealing it was soiled due to the stress of the child within We took her back to the Birthing Center immediately. As our Daughter's Fever rose and the heart rate of their baby got dangerously high the inner knowing and words I heard at the beginning of her Pregnancy returned to my mind. I sought to rest in their promise of a good outcome, even though the Medical Staff knew there was cause for alarm. Due to the danger involved for both the mother and baby, an emergency C Section immediately took place. Except for the need of transfusions for our Daughter both were fine. The Doctors marveled that their Baby Girl's Apgar Test Score was a perfect 10 because 7 is the average number for a baby who is not born under duress.

As I listened with compassion to our Daughter and her Hubby recently discuss their desire for a Son and their concerns over the trials and tribulations which come through attempting In Vitro Fertilization again and remembered all of the physical and emotional pain that took place previously, once again I silently asked Father for a healing Miracle in their behalf and in behalf of others like them. They did not have the faith to do so, but I did, for I have received the miracle of healing on more than one occasion. I asked Father if it was in His plan and timing, to heal her body, to please give them a baby, the Son they desired, naturally. When my Daughter told me she thought she might be Pregnant because her next Cycle had not come, I told her of my most recent prayer and dared to hope with her. When she took an at Home Pregnancy Test, later that day we marveled and rejoiced when it said she was Pregnant. Her Hubby was especially relieved when we found out a few days later it was definitely not a Tubular Pregnancy. Initially she had been told although she had a 3% chance of conceiving in her one good Ovary, more than likely it would be a Tubular Pregnancy, if the disease she had did not flush out the fertilized egg before it had the opportunity to attach itself to the wall of her uterus.

Shortly after... her Hubby's Dad said he had an unusual dream. He never dreams of his Father, but the night before he had a conversation with his Dad in a realistic dream. In the dream he was telling his Father that his Son was having another child, but they were at lost for a name... to which his Father responded, 'The Baby already has the name that really matters.' As he told us this dream over our Thanksgiving meal together, we all wondered if then meant a Son was on the way.

As I reflect and meditate upon the details of these memories ... all that has happened to us and others; the possibility of that which is to come and the Sovereign Will and Timing of God's Eternal Plan, once again I can identify with Nettie Mae in my short Short Story No Ordinary Miracle:

"She was overcome with gratitude for the gift of life she had witnessed once again. This was a sacred moment and she started to sing a song of thankfulness and adoration to her God, as was her habit, but she soon discovered, today mere words would never be enough. They were replaced by a tear which teetered on the rim of her eye, as she understood today they had experienced no ordinary miracle."

No Ordinary Miracle

2010-02-23T01:11:00.004-05:00

No Ordinary Miracle

Nettie Mae tossed her handmade shawl over the small ram horn, she used as a hook in her mud room. Stripping down completely before entering the kitchen she tossed her blood stained garments in the basin to soak.  This was her routine since becoming an assistant to Laura, a midwife.

Unaffected by the coldness of the early hour she put wood in the cook stove and drew water from the kitchen pump, to warm for her bath. After making a pot of coffee she pulled her favorite stool closer to the warmth of the fire and sat waiting in the solitude, completely exhausted. Vivid memories of a crisis earlier that day flashed before her....

"Thirty six hours is a long time to be in labor isn't it?" whispered Logan Howard, almost choking on his words. "You've got to do something; my wife can't take much more!"

The room was silent except for Rosalie's moaning. A sense of powerlessness enveloped everyone as she lay there exhausted, unable to work with her contractions any longer.

Laura turned to Nettie Mae, "She's too weak. I want you to get behind Rosalie on the bed and hold her against you. You’re going to have to be her strength."

Nettie Mae moved into position placing Rosalie between her legs, her hands firmly on Rosalie's stomach, enabling her to feel the contractions. Bringing her own body in sync with Rosalie's she whispered, "Rosie, breath with me. Relax and let your body become one with mine. We'll get through this together."

Rosalie struggling to cooperate, moaned, "Can't go on... too tired."

Nettie Mae thought of the foul weather outside as she heard Laura's cool insistence, "Work with her Rosalie."

Rosalie made a feeble attempt, for the sake of her baby. After a few more contractions, she was able to draw energy from Nettie Mae as the two women worked together as one.  Laura was relieved "Good girl Rosalie, you're doing fine."

Laura continued to sooth her, wiping her sweaty brow, speaking more for the sake of Logan than his wife.

It was not customary for Laura to allow men to be a part of the birthing process, even so Logan refused to leave. He knew his presence brought his wife peace. Laura was glad she had relented this time. In all her years as a midwife, she never remembered seeing a man so helpless, being so brave. It was inspiring to watch and she knew, it is what kept Rosalie from giving up. She saw his courage as her lifeline to God.

"Help her to lean back Nettie," directed Laura as she examined the woman more closely with the lantern.

Struggling to repress a look of horror on her face once she saw the dangling umbilical cord ... Laura's voice could not hide her intense fear, "We need to get her into a crouching position Nettie. We've got to get this baby out now. We have a prolapsed cord!"

Death was inevitable. Friends praying silent heartfelt prayers in the back of the room pressed in more intently daring to believe God for a miracle.

With an unnatural strength, Nettie Mae flipped the heavy woman over as if she were a lifeless rag doll.  She positioned Rosalie so her arms were draping over her shoulders enabling her to squat. Nettie Mae felt another contraction as their stomachs met.

Swiftly, Laura's hands were inside pulling the baby out. Rosalie slumped forward in relief... unaware of the present crisis. She moaned in anticipation begging for the removal of the placenta, as her contractions continued. After 5 daughters... they hoped for a son.

The baby was gray, his body drained of color. He was limp… there was no evidence of life. It was explained later, that as the baby came down the birth canal, it had swallowed embryonic fluid and his head had pressed against the dangling umbilical cord while passing through, cutting off his oxygen supply.

A resolve to fight for the life of this little one, defying logic overcame Nettie Mae. It was as if she too had carried this baby. With words she'll always remember, she heard herself urging the parents to speak to the spirit of their child and to call him back from the realm of death.

"Speak to your son! Call him by name, tell him you love him. Tell him how long you have waited for a son. Tell him how much you want him to live." she persevered.

With one final plea, Rosalie unconscious of the battle with death around her, finally collapsed in complete exhaustion.

No one seemed to hear her, so Nettie Mae commanded, "Speak to your baby, urge him to choose life."

Speaking from a place of bewilderment, Logan reacted, "Good baby, sweet baby, nice baby, don't die baby!" He took his long awaited sons' tiny hands. His words caught his wife's attention.

An unexplainable peace had come over Nettie Mae, which energized everyone as she continued urging with great faith. It was as if God was challenging each of them through her, "Don't let death have this little one... only believe."

"Julian..." Rosalie's voice broke through, bringing with it the love she and Logan shared for their lifeless child, "our precious son."

She spoke with an unwavering calm, which soothed the atmosphere. Upon hearing his Mother’s voice, their son responded by vomiting out the fluid he had swallowed. Without delay, Laura cleared Julian's throat and nose and began to gently breathe into his mouth as if she were breathing in the very breath of God. Gradually Julian started breathing on his own. Although he quietly whimpered for hours, he was going to be fine.

Nettie Mae was brought back to the present by the echo of a whistling train rushing through the hills beyond her sheep pasture. The savory aroma of coffee was calling her, but she did not move. She longed to scrub every inch of her weary body, but something kept her seated, staring unfocused.

She was overcome with gratitude for the gift of life she had witnessed once again. This was a sacred moment and she started to sing a song of thankfulness and adoration to her God, as was her habit, but she soon discovered, today mere words would never be enough. They were replaced by a tear which teetered on the rim of her eye, as she understood today they had experienced no ordinary miracle.

~ Upon seeing a statue of a naked woman described in the end of the short story, at an Art Museum in the mid 90's, I was moved by her demeanor. The tear which teetered on the rim of her left eye, told me she had a story she wanted to tell.... immediately I sensed her story brewing deep within. When I got home, the story above seemed to write itself.

I soon realized... the story which unfolded before me was similar to an experience of faith I had a few years earlier. This experience happened as an answer to a prayer... I hoped to see the raising of the dead someday... the reality was nothing like I imagined.

Although the time, place and names are fictional... the actual birth experience which is described in part above is true... as experienced and remembered from my own perspective. My role in the Story is that of Nettie Mae. ~

The next Blog will describe some of the details of the event which inspired the above short Short Story... and some insights and other miracles which have come since.

Book Review: Dan Brown's "The Lost Symbol"

2010-02-22T13:11:00.004-05:00

.

I recently read Dan Brown's Mystic Mystery 'The Lost Symbol'. I've enjoyed reading the Style of Dan Brown. He weaves his Story Line together by interlacing interconnected Stories and Facts ... leaving us hanging, eager to return again with the possibility of gleaning a truth while being entertained. As one who grew up in the Washington Metropolitan Area, as a Sightseer and Seeker of Truth, I am very familiar with the Places and Conspiracy Theories he speaks of; this knowledge added to my pleasure. It seems obvious that he does extensive research and that his Books are laced with his own Spiritual Insights and Theories. Discerning how much of it is truth... and how much is meant for Entertainment Value is up to the Reader.

Without a Spiritual reference point, Dan Brown's Books "The Divinci Code", "Angels and Demons" and "The Lost Symbol" could cause one to ponder much, in light of the controversy surrounding his Writings.... and I see this as a good thing. Any Book which inspires one to Think and Seek Truth for Themselves, to me is worth recommending. If you're entertained while doing so... good!

A Note to Those with Investigative Minds: Each Link provided above may lead to a different link about the Topic at Hand, such as a Bio Link, a Place of Purchase, the Website or Blog of the Author, a Related Article or more.

Why One Millionaire is Choosing a Simplifed Life

2010-02-20T01:11:00.011-05:00

Millionaire gives away Fortune that made him miserable. When every penny of his estimated $4.7 million fortune is gone, he says, he intends to move into a small wooden hut in the mountains or a studio in Innsbruck.

Millionaire Karl Rabeder is getting rid of his Millions because he discovered rather than making him happy they did the opposite: ""More and more I heard the words: 'Stop what you are doing now – all this luxury and consumerism – and start your real life'," he said. "I had the feeling I was working as a slave for things that I did not wish for or need."

As we seek to have what we need and want
... the true joys of living ...
let us not forget about the possibility a desire for too much money and things
could enslave us to Consumerism and
an unhealthy need to build our self worth with that which will loose it's value,
while tempting us to not care about how our actions affect our soul,
others we meet along the way, our planet and future generations.
Perhaps a wiser way of Being is to remember to ask ourselves,
'when will enough be enough' 'how much of what we have do we actually use'
'is the cost of getting it worth having it'
'how much energy do we really want to spend managing our time, money
and all the things Society tells we need to surround ourselves with in order to find happiness'
'is a simplified life more conducive to true joy, self respect and harmony with all of life'?
If we don't stop to think things through objectively ... for ourselves,
will we be in danger of being caught in the trap of believing having more,
doing more, experiencing more will give the happiness we are told is lacking;
unaware we may be chasing after an illusive butterfly and the vain imaginations
Commercialism seeks to deceive us with so IT can prosper at the expense of authentic happiness.
If we become obsessed with spending all our time going after money and things trying to make a name for ourselves in relationship to what it can buy and do because of a Fragile Ego, we may find we have little time to enjoy what may really matter to the care of our soul and the soul of those we love,
we may loose sight of our own moral integrity .... of who we are really Being
in relationship to the love of money, to the planet
and most of all to those we love and whose love we ultimately desire ... the true joys of living.

Austrian Millionaire Karl Rabeder is giving away every penny of his

£3 Million Fortune after realising his riches were making him unhappy.

Henry Samuel in Paris

Published: 8:16PM GMT 08 Feb 2010

1 of 3 Images

Austrian millionaire Karl Rabeder is giving away his fortune

Mr Rabeder, 47, a businessman from Telfs is in the process of selling his luxury 3,455 sq ft villa with lake, sauna and spectacular mountain views over the Alps, valued at £1.4 million.

Also for sale is his beautiful old stone farmhouse in Provence with its 17 hectares overlooking the arrière-pays, on the market for £613,000. Already gone is his collection of six gliders valued at £350,000, and a luxury Audi A8, worth around £44,000.

Mr Rabeder has also sold the interior furnishings and accessories business – from vases to artificial flowers – that made his fortune.

"My idea is to have nothing left. Absolutely nothing," he told The Daily Telegraph. "Money is counterproductive – it prevents happiness to come."

Instead, he will move out of his luxury Alpine retreat into a small wooden hut in the mountains or a simple bedsit in Innsbruck.

His entire proceeds are going to charities he set up in Central and Latin America, but he will not even take a salary from these.

"For a long time I believed that more wealth and luxury automatically meant more happiness," he said. "I come from a very poor family where the rules were to work more to achieve more material things, and I applied this for many years," said Mr Rabeder.

But over time, he had another, conflicting feeling.

"More and more I heard the words: 'Stop what you are doing now – all this luxury and consumerism – and start your real life'," he said. "I had the feeling I was working as a slave for things that I did not wish for or need.

I have the feeling that there are lot of people doing the same thing."

However, for many years he said he was simply not "brave" enough to give up all the trappings of his comfortable existence.

The tipping point came while he was on a three-week holiday with his wife to islands of Hawaii.

"It was the biggest shock in my life, when I realised how horrible, soulless and without feeling the five star lifestyle is," he said. "In those three weeks, we spent all the money you could possibly spend. But in all that time, we had the feeling we hadn't met a single real person – that we were all just actors. The staff played the role of being friendly and the guests played the role of being important and nobody was real."

He had similar feelings of guilt while on gliding trips in South America and Africa. "I increasingly got the sensation that there is a connection between our wealth and their poverty," he said.

Suddenly, he realised that "if I don't do it now I won't do it for the rest of my life".

Mr Rabeder decided to raffle his Alpine home, selling 21,999 lottery tickets priced at just £87 each. The Provence house in the village of Cruis is on sale at the local estate agent.

All the money will go into his microcredit charity, which offers small loans to Latin America and builds development aid strategies to self-employed people in El Salvador, Honduras, Bolivia, Peru, Argentina and Chile.

Since selling his belongings, Mr Rabeder said he felt "free, the opposite of heavy".

But he said he did not judge those who chose to keep their wealth. "I do not have the right to give any other person advice. I was just listening to the voice of my heart and soul."

Tips for Making Money Blogging for Free from a Professional Blogger

2010-02-18T01:11:00.012-05:00

Knowing I Write with a desire to share Insights I consider to be of value and to be of benefit to and with others, my Husband's Sister Wendy a Professional Blogger encouraged me to Blog. After agreeing to do so, being one who knows the Financial Benefits of Blogging she set this Blog up for us, with the hope we will prosper though it.

When it comes to Questions relative to Blogging for Income sweet, generous Wendy is the one to ask. I myself can only offer links to those experienced in this area.

For those looking to make Income On Line, below is an Excerpt of what she has to say about herself and her life Blogging for Income:

"About a year ago (2008) I didn't know what a blog was and within one year I have been able to double my income, stay at home and work for myself, start a savings account, pay down bills, and even buy health insurance. I am now supporting my husband and myself with this thing called blogging. And, there seems to be no end in site as the Web changes all of the time and the possibilities are limitless."

Being another who finds great delight in helping others with her Insights, sweet Wendy has created a Blog called: Mommy Bloggers Guide.

Below is her Introduction at that Blog:

Welcome To The Mommy Bloggers Guide

Too many mom bloggers start a blog without every considering anything before they begin. This is mainly due to the fact that no one has ever taught them what they should be doing or has given them any guidance as to where to start. This is what the Mommy Bloggers Guide is all about.

There are so many topics that bloggers need to learn about and concepts that need to be covered and I am putting them all in one place on this site.

Feel free to send me your blogging questions you would like answered and if it is relevant to the mom blogging community at large I will cover that topic and answer your questions on the Mommy Bloggers Guide."

Some other Blogs Wendy Publishes are: Welcome to Sweeties Travel Adventures: her Newest Blog ~ Come along with Wendy (Sweetie) as she and her husband Greg, travel, explore and try new foods, stay in new places, experience new cultures, and meet new people.

About Sweeties Travel Adventures: My husband Greg and I love traveling. Until recently we couldn't go on trips because we were busy raising our children. Now that they are grown we have a little bit more freedom to roam around the country.

We have been fortunate to win many fabulous trips by entering sweepstakes so many of the trips we go on don't cost us anything - except for the postcards and souvenirs. We've been to the Bahamas, on a cruise, France, Hollywood, Newport, Florida, all because of free trips we won through sweepstakes. We hope to win more great trips so we can travel to a lot more fabulous places to explore and learn more about this great planet we live on.

We plan to share our thoughts and opinions of places we see, food we eat, and people we meet. This is also a site where I can finally share my photographs. I love taking pics with my Sony Cyber-shot camera but no one ever sees them. Even if no one visits my site at least I will know I have a place I can put them to share.

What's In Sweeties Travel Bag: If I take it on our trip I will write about it. From the camera we use, the laptop or Netbook we take, luggage, or some cool gadgets that helps us in our travels we will let you know all about it.

This blog rounds out my Sweeties world of blogs. I blog on a variety of topics but they all fit together somehow.

Sweeties Sweeps: On this blog I share how to enter and win prizes like the trips you will see talked about on this site. You can also win lots of other things such as TVs, furniture, cash, gift certificates, cars, or computers. I try to post more "winnable" contests and sweepstakes to enter on this site - quality over quantity www.sweetiessweeps.com

Sweeties Daily Sweepstakes Digest: Everyday of the year I post from 5 to 10 sweepstakes for you to enter. These may not be as winnable as the ones you will find on my main sweeps site but readers have still reported wins by entering sweepstakes I post here. This site is for readers who need a source of quantity sweepstakes because they have more time to enter. If you don't have as much time focus on the "winnables" first. www.sweetiessweepstakes.net

Sweeties Secret Sweeps: This is a private, subscription based site for more "hard core" sweepers who really want to focus on winning prizes. The sweepstakes posted on this site are restricted, usually to certain states making them much easier to win. The cost is $25.00 per year. www.sweetiessecretsweeps.com

Sweeties Swag: Everyone loves getting some for free and this is what I post on the swag site. If there is a free coupon, free sample or free magazine available online I will post about it. I also post "hot shopping deals" on things I find for sale that you might like that are a steal. And, I also host giveaways and do some reviews of products that are sent to me or products I may have purchased that I would like to share with readers. www.sweetiesswag.com

Enjoy!

Invitation for Readers to Ask Questions and Help Solve Problems

2010-02-17T01:11:00.013-05:00

I have been told there are those who have Specific Questions who are currently being referred to Living A Simplified Life ... one in particular will have Beginner Gardening Questions. With that in mind, I would like to give Readers the opportunity to ask Questions on their Topic of Choice and to offer Insights and Solutions with me in the Comments Section ... and if need be later, in a Forum Format.

If an immediate answer is not available through us and I know of no Referral, I will do Research on Topics which are relevant to the intent of this Blog at my leisure and I will eventually Blog what I discovered along the way.

As a wise and loving man once said, 'The only stupid questions are those which are not asked.' So ... please... don't be shy, ask away ... surely one of us will have an answer!
Anonymous Questions can be sent to www.Networkers@msn.com

Book and Author Reviews: The Power of Slow

2010-02-16T01:11:00.014-05:00

Power of Slow by Christine Louise Hohlaum is an easy read which offers 101 Prudent and Practical Ways to Save Time in a Fast Paced Culture. Christine speaks of time and of her conscious relationship with it .... which has made her more spiritually mindful of what she is doing and why, as well as the quality of who she is choosing to Be during her Journey in Time.

The light hearted Anecdotes Christine uses especially warmed my heart, because I am reminded of the truth of them. Since the early 1990's, I've had the pleasure of being with her and her extended family at her Mother's Family Gatherings and have observed much over the years. Her Mother, Willow Drinkwater, is a precious friend and neighbor here at Cedar Hill Paradise Farm.

As I read The Power of Slow... I heard her Mother's voice and saw the influence of Christine's Family in some of the Chapters. While reading other Chapters... I could see the influence of so many and thought, Christine is the perfect person to write on this. After glancing at her Blog I saw she is rapidly becoming a Living Resource for many.

Taking advantage of the practical wisdom Christine offers in The Power of Slow will help you to live a more fully realized life ... a more simplified, balanced, prudent, spiritually authentic and harmonious life of quality.

Christine is an accomplished Author. Some of her other Books are S.A.H.M. I am Tales of a Stay at Home Mom Diary of a Mother Parenting Tales and Other Stuff. Author's Companion: A Self-Guided Course on Book Promotion… The Diary of You 26 Writing Exercises to Unleash Your Creative Soul

After Reading The Power of Slow, do keep in mind... your Role in using the Key of Balance, (previous blog) and God's Perfect Timing... for those who seek to go with His Flow during their own Journey in Time and Eternity.

A Note to Those with Investigative Minds: Some of the Links provided above may lead to a different link about the Topic at Hand, such as a Bio Link, a Place of Purchase, the Website or Blog of the Author, a Related Article or more.

Enjoy!

Save on the Cost of Food by Buying through Angel Food Ministry

2010-02-15T11:55:00.021-05:00

As one of the Servers of "Feed My Sheep" a Local Community of Volunteers who help those in need, one of my Roles is to help people find potential Resources. A Community Group I refer others to is 'Angel Food Ministry', a Nationwide Group which hopes to help save on the cost of Groceries. This Service is Available to Anyone ... and you can Order with others in mind. Check around to see if your Local Community has a Branch and if not ... perhaps you could bring Angel Food Ministry to the attention of Local Volunteer Groups, as they may be delighted to become a Host Site. If Angel Food Ministry is not in your area, 'Great Food For All' a similar Ministry may have a Host Site nearby. UPDATE: A Reader suggested this Link: www.FoodShareAmerica.com

Below is a copy of Angel Food's February 2010 Flyer ~ THE MENU CHANGES EVERY MONTH

Click on Picture to find your closest Local Host

Have you seen this editorial in the New York Times? Hunger in America is growing. 37 million people, about one in eight Americans, knocked on a door of a hunger relief organization ? that?s 46 % higher than three years ago. In an article in Thursday?s Times, it talks of the stigma of SNAP (Food Stamps) being lifted, and people who once would not seek them, now rely heavily on the resource.

Why is this important? America needs help. we need an answer for the vexing problems facing our own ? and government has yet to offer to the solutions. Yet, for 15 years, Angel Food Ministries has found a way to help people buy wholesome food for far less than they?d pay elsewhere, and it has also pumped needed funds ? some $26 million ? back into local home-grown organizations in over 6000 communities across 44 states.

It feeds people for less; gives money back and never seeks donations itself ? that is the model of a hunger relief organization on the cutting edge, ready to take on the challenges to meet the demands for those 37 million Americans seeking help.

Take a look at Angel Food Ministries; review our February menu; order for yourself or order for someone you know today.

Signature Box
Balanced nutrition and variety with enough food to assist in feeding a family of four for a week.
1.5 lb. Top Sirloin Steaks (4 x 6 oz.)
1.5 lb. Boneless Pork Roast
2 lb. IQF Boneless/Skinless Chicken Breast
2 lb. Lasagna with Meat Sauce
1.5 lb. Fully Cooked Boneless Chicken Drumsticks (Brand New Item! Exclusive to AFM)
1 lb. Lean Ground Beef
1 lb. Frozen Baby Limas
1 lb. Frozen Green Beans
1 lb. Broccoli Florets
1 lb. Rice
1 lb. Pasta
28 oz. Pasta Sauce
1 lb. Fresh Carrots
4 ct. Large Baking Potatoes
32 oz. 2% Shelf Stable Milk Dozen Eggs
Dessert

5 LB. ALLERGEN-FREE FOOD BOX
Processed to eliminate the eight top serious allergens: Peanuts, Soybeans, Milk, Eggs, Fish, Crustacea, Tree Nuts and Gluten (wheat, rye and barley). Great for children and adults!
1 lb. Breaded Chicken Fillet Patties
1 lb. Breaded Chicken Tenders
1 lb. Breaded Chicken Nuggets
1 lb. Breaded Steak Fingers
1 lb. Breaded Chicken Wings

Battered/Breaded with water, white rice, brown rice, modified tapioca starch, flax seed, sugar, salt, spices, dehydrated garlic, spice extractives and oleoresin paprika. Breading is pre-browned in Canola oil. SENIOR & CONVENIENCE MEALS
For Seniors or People on the Go!
Ten perfectly seasoned, nutritionally balanced, fully cooked meals?just heat and serve. Each meal has been developed with the dietary needs of senior citizens in mind, and contains 3 oz. of protein, a starch & two vegetables or fruit.
Chicken Parmesan with Brussels sprouts & zucchini
Charbroiled Beef Patty with mashed potatoes, carrots & corn blend
Macaroni & Beef with noodles, carrots & zucchini blend
Lemon Pepper Fish with rice, peas & zucchini blend
Mesquite Chicken with rice, carrots & green beans
Spaghetti & Meatballs with corn, peas & carrots
Boneless Pork Patty with roasted sweet potatoes, sugar snap peas & broccoli/cauliflower
Cheese Manicotti with green beans, peas & carrots
Chicken & Rice with Mushroom Sauce, green beans, corn blend
Macaroni & Cheese with broccoli & lima beans
Desserts: Assorted Cookies, Mixed Fruit Cup, Fig Bar, Strawberry Applesauce, Grape Juice, Apple Juice

6 LB. PREMIUM SEAFOOD VARIETY BOX
Six pounds of the finest quality seafood
assortment available.

2 lbs. Alaskan Snow Crab Legs
1 lb. Large EZ Peel Shrimp
2 lbs. Oven Ready Popcorn Shrimp
1 lb. Stuffed Crab in Natural Shell (8 ct.)

FEBRUARY SPECIAL #1    $23.00
6.5 lb. Assorted Meat Grill Box
1.5 lb. T-Bone Steaks (2 x 12 oz.)
2 lb. Boneless Pork Chops (4 x 8 oz.)
1.5 lb. Lean Hamburger Patties (4 x 6 oz.)
1.5 lb. Mild Italian Sausage Links with Cheese
FEBRUARY SPECIAL #2    $22.00
5 lb. Assorted Meat & Chicken Combo
1.5 lb. Kansas City Strips (2 x 12 oz.)
1.5 lb. Prime Rib Steak (2 x 12 oz.)
2 lb. Gourmet Flavored Boneless Chicken Breast
Mesquite (4 x 4 oz.) & Lemon Herb (4 x 4 oz.)
FEBRUARY SPECIAL #3    $18.00
Stuffed Chicken Variety Pack $18.00
1.5 lb. Chicken Cordon Bleu (4 x 6 oz.)
1.5 lb. Broccoli & Cheese (4 x 6 oz.)
1.5 lb. Chicken Kiev (4 x 6 oz.)

FEBRUARY SPECIAL #4    $21.00
Super Value Fajita Kit (5+ lbs.)
2 lb. Steak Fajita Strip Packs (2 x 1 lb.)
2 lb. Chicken Breast Fajita Strip Packs (2 x 1 lb.)
1 lb. Onions & Bell Peppers
20 ct. 8? Flour Tortillas

FEBRUARY SPECIAL #5    $22.00
Premium Fresh Fruit and Veggie Box
3 lbs. Tree-Ripened Oranges
2 lbs. Premium Red Delicious Apples
1 lb. New Crop Chilean Plums
4 Washington State Anjou Pears
4 Washington State Fuji Apples
4 Tree Ripened Tangerines
2 Tree Ripened Red Grapefruit
6 pack 1 oz. Boxes Premium Sun Dried Raisins
3 lbs. Premium Red A-Size Potatoes
2 lbs. Premium Yellow Onions
1 head Premium Leafy Green Cabbage

3 lbs. Tree-Ripened Oranges
2 lbs. Premium Red Delicious Apples
1 lb. New Crop Chilean Plums
4 Washington State Anjou Pears
4 Washington State Fuji Apples
4 Tree Ripened Tangerines
2 Tree Ripened Red Grapefruit
6 pack 1 oz. Boxes Premium Sun Dried Raisins
3 lbs. Premium Red A-Size Potatoes
2 lbs. Premium Yellow Onions
1 head Premium Leafy Green Cabbage
1 lb. Premium Whole-Peeled Baby Carrots
1 lb. Dried Pinto Beans

FOOD STAMPS ACCEPTED AVAILABLE TO EVERYONE

Do return again, if your interested in more Economical Tips as in the future I will be including

Blogs on: Ways I Save on the Cost of Food and the Cost of Living

Good Eats Everyone ... Enjoy!

Dial 211 for Resource Referrals for Free Emergency Aid

2010-02-08T00:12:00.020-05:00

Dial 211 if you need help ... they recommend you call them with your list and if it's in their data base, they will refer you to one of their Resources. www.211.org has a Data Base filled with Resources for those in need Nation Wide and Canada. Some of the Resources Registered are Government based the rest are Privately Run, Non Profit or Volunteer Groups and Clubs ... there are thousands.

Two examples of how they helped the day I discovered them and referred them via Feed My Sheep a local Volunteer Group I serve with are: Family #1 was in need of Gas money. Family #2 was a 65 year old Single Mom in need of Financial Aid so she could keep her Electric on. Family#1 a Truck Driver lost their job. Family #2 a long time Self Employed Pet Groomer was loosing Clients due to cut backs. Both are seeking employment. Family #1 just lost their home. Family #2 is in danger of loosing hers. UPDATE: Family #1 was also about to get a grant so she could continue her education and they are helping her to get her vehicle back on the road. They also put her in their data base for employment opportunities.

211 knows of Agencies who help with Vehicles for those in need of getting to work. They also help with Repairs of all kinds as well as......... well I won't list that here. If your in need... remember, they suggest you make a list and call them to see if they can help .... it's what they are there for.

They'd appreciate it if you'd tell others.... so if your so inclined, due share this Blog Link... remember they are Nation Wide and in Canada. Just dial 211 and you will automatically be connected to the nearest 211 in your local area.

Heavenly Father You say because you love us unconditionally You rain on the just and the unjust ... thank You for meeting our needs through those You've prepared in advance ... Bless You for empowering those Called to such, to 'Feed Your Sheep' ... be it Spirit, Soul or Bodily.

Fun in the Snow Days and Fun Family Projects

2010-02-07T00:12:00.009-05:00

"Do you hear the Echo of that Train? When the clouds become low like a ceiling in the sky and you can hear your Echo or the Echo of the Train, snow is not far behind", is what my Grandmother use to say. Am looking forward to saying the same to my Grandchildren ... and playing 'Echo' with them and others, before and after the Snow falls.

I love snow, it brings back fond memories... and can be made into an fun adventure if one has the mindset for it; "Camping out Indoors." for one. If it gets too cold in the House due to power outages, seek to solve the problem and bring out the child in everyone by suggesting everyone helps you push back the Furniture so you all can put up a Tent. If they are not interested in this... ask them for a better idea. If you don't have access to a Tent, make one out of things around the house.... be ingenious.

As I look outside and appreciate the Beauty of our little corner of Paradise covered with snow my mind begins to think about all of the great fun to be had. Seeing Animal Tracks in the

Snow reminds me of how my children did not have the advantages of growing up in the Country. Such really makes me look forward to the times when they can, through our experiences together with their Children whenever they visit here with us. When they are old enough and I can introduce them to Nature from my perspective I want to show my Grandchildren details like Animal Tracks. One of the games I look forward to playing with them is... 'Lets see who can find and identify the most animal Tracks.' and when we have exhausted our search, I hope to hold their interest by making Tracks with them... preferably in the Snow, but carving a track in a Potato to make a stamp out of them may be an creative alternative over a cup of warm Hot Chocolate.

Preparing for the coming Snow Storms reminds me of how my children did not have the advantages of growing up in the Country. Such really makes me look forward to the times when they can, through our experiences together with their Children whenever they visit here with us. When they are old enough and I can introduce them to Nature from my perspective I want to show my Grandchildren details like Animal Tracks. One of the games I look forward to playing with them is... 'Lets see who can find and identify the most animal Tracks.' and when we have exhausted our search, I hope to hold their interest by making Tracks with them... preferably in the Snow. Here's a resource and a Quick Game: Animal Tracks Quiz for Beginners for those interested in doing the same someday.

I am surprised when I hear of people being bored on Snow Days. There are lots of ways to play in the Snow if one is dressed for the Weather ... using things like Plastic Bats for Baseball, Old Golf Clubs or Croquet Mallets used to see who can roll the largest Snow Ball, Plastic Bowling Pins to be knocked over with a Snow Ball, playing with an old pair of Snow Shoes, old Skis and Ski Poles, playing games like Tug of War, Toss the Hat on the Snowman, a Scavenger Hunt of Finding things sticking up out of the snow and the like.

Here are 2 links: 20 Games to Play in the Snow from Parents.com and Fun in the Snow from a Winter Resource Center. Another link which might be worth considering is: I loved Playing in the Snow when I was Young.

One of the many things I enjoy about Snow is Snow Recipes. Here are two... if anyone has anymore, I'd be interested in reading them, feel free to post them as a Comment for our Readers too:

Snow Ice Cream:

1 gallon of snow
1 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 cups milk

When it starts to snow, place a large, clean container (you can use an insert from a Ice Cream Maker too), outside to collect the flakes. When full, stir in sugar and vanilla to taste, then stir in just enough milk of choice (to include evaporated milk) for the desired consistency. Serve at once.

Snow Cones: add Snow Cone Flavoring to freshly collected Snow, which you have put into paper Snow Cones... or make your own Snow Cones

Enjoy!

Book Review: Snowmen 'Snow Creatures, Crafts and Other Winter Projects'

2010-02-06T00:12:00.007-05:00

In my last Blog I Recommended the Book: Snowmen 'Snow Creatures, Crafts and Other Winter Projects'.

Below are two Pictures from the Book to give you some ideas of what it has to offer. Alongside the Pictures are Instructions. Not only do the Authors have Photos and Instructions for building other Snow Projects, such as a Snow Queen and Bugs on a Log... but they also have crafts for those with the heart of an Artist... be they an Adult or Child The Authors end the Book with cute and what appears to be Tasty Recipes such as White Chocolate Marshmallow Men, which when dipped in Hot Chocolate melt into a creamy froth.

Porcupinepineneedle

Enjoy!

Thoughts on Snow and Ice Storms

2010-02-05T12:11:00.087-05:00

This week, the Weather Forecasters have been predicting the rare occurrence of about 30 inches or more of snow which will be added to what is already on the ground in our little corner of Paradise. They are expecting snow drifts as well.

Preparing for this put me in mind of a time a while back when my Mother's electricity went out for 13 days due to a rare storm. As the days without Electricity continued Mom, an elderly widow with a desire to live alone, started to go into a state of panic, so she prayed. While doing so she was reminded what it was like to grow up without a lot of modern conveniences and how this power outage was only temporary and that some of her Adult children lived close by and thus she relaxed. Thinking about this in relation to our life and the current Forecast, I thought of the wisdom of advanced preparation especially to ease the stress on those who would most need it and decided this blog might be appropriate at this time.

While writing this, I'd like to urge you to keep in mind those who have limited income or those who are Home Bound, such as the sick, elderly and disabled; before shopping for you, you might want to give others a call and see if they are need a helping hand... and you might want to keep them and others in mind when it comes to Shoveling out after the Storm has passed. Also... if you know of someone who is alone... consider inviting them to stay with you through the storm.

Speaking of after a Storm has passed... those of you who have plenty at this season of your life may want to keep in mind those who do not. Often such a one works at a job where if they don't work they don't get paid... and the Storms of life (a snow storm, an illness, a broken Vehicle, an unexpected Pregnancy being only four such examples), can cause them to get behind in their utilities and the like... so do consider adopting a family or two anonymously and paying one of their bills for them ... more than once if you can.

While considering our potential needs I think of the Wildlife as well... so when I replenish for us I take the time to make sure I am stocked up for them too ... Raw Peanuts and Corn for the Squirrels and Seed for the Birds. *now is a good time to provide temporary shelter for strays. Typically I toss Meat, Fat and Bone Scraps into a special area set aside for the Wildlife and Strays all year, a little ways away from our compost pile, near the Gardening Shed. The Bones are always gone by the next morning, but I also make sure there is some set aside in our extra Freezer for times when there is snow on the ground. Before the ground is covered, I pull out these scraps and add it to the collection of Homemade Suet and Donations of leftover Bread saved for such occasions. If need be, I take this time to make more Homemade Suet. See my Blog Link: Helping our Feathered Friends for Recipes and other ideas.

As the projected number of inches of snow expected increases with warnings to expect power outages, I decided this was a good time to make sure our Grill has plenty of Propane and that our Spare Tank is full... (in case we need to loan it out). I also decided to take our Coolers out of the long term Storage Building to freshen them up and put them in a Closet in our Home. There is a comforting feeling in the knowing, it's ready, 'just in case'. If necessary, I plan to use these for what's in the Fridge, and place them just outside the door in the Snow, if you don't have a Cooler, Clean Trash Bags with or without a box will work.... just make sure you put the bag over the box; Plastic Crates work well too. Our extra Freezer is located in an unheated area for times such as these, so if need be, I will remove 'filler' material from it (jugs full of water, bags of homemade Ice Cubes, the insert from the Homemade Ice Cream Maker, ect ... a full freezer is more economical to run), and put frozen items from our Refrigerator/Freezer in there, making sure I only open it in an emergency, so items will stay frozen longer.

I also decided to dig out our Phone which is not Cordless which I keep around for when the power goes out... and am making sure our Cell Phones are fully charged. Oh... I forgot... Rock Salt for when the snow melts.

My Hubby uses Wood Shavings from his Handcrafted Log Furniture Workshop to help those who are stuck in the snow thus I can easily keep a bag in my Trunk ... but for those who do not have access to Wood Shavings or Saw Dust I suggest a bag of old Fashioned Cat Litter be kept in your truck for emergencies along with Blankets and emergency water, if it's imperative that you drive in the snow. Sand works too. Oh and some prefer to keep a small board to go under the tire when all else fails.

For years now... I have also set aside, not only for us but others, Emergency items such as Candles and Oil Lamps, Can Openers, Radio Batteries and much more, but instead of listing such here, I decided to offer Resourceful Links: click: How to Prepare Your Home for a Winter Storm What you need to be Prepared for a Snow Storm After a Snow Storm has Passed What to Stock in an Emergency Winter Survival Kit Preparing for Cold Winters Click: Emergency Advise from Fema

... and now may be an advantageous time to read my Blog on Rocket Stoves A Cheap, Easy, Clean and Efficient way to Cook and Heat *wink

Oh... and if you have suggestions or stories to offer regarding the storms of life, by all means, leave them as comments... I look forward to reading them, and others may enjoy them as well.

Later today I plan to scan a Photo or two and to copy a few ideas from a great Book I recommend: Snowmen 'Snow Creatures, Crafts and Other Winter Projects'. by Peter Cole, Frankie Frankeny, and Leslie Jonath , so do stop by again tomorrow, if this topic will interest you.

As I end today's Blog echoes from memories of days gone by come to mind: 'Anyone wanna play Uno or Monopoly? Anyone into making an Indoor Fort until we can make a Snow Fort? If the Lights go out we can play Indoor Flash Light Tag!'

Enjoy the Snow and the opportunities for making positive memories with your Families and Guests!!!

Update* Oooh... our power is still on, but the Temp is predicted to drop to 6 degrees with more snow coming in a few days, which means I need to use those empty Coolers to store our Winter Potatoes, Onions and Fruit in for a few nights. The Converted Porch which I use partly as a Root Cellar is unheated. Hmmm... wonder if they will work better than the Fruit Baskets I over winter them in?

``My 79 year old Mom's Electric went out... after one of our Brothers dug himself out, he brought over some Precooked BBQ Ribs, wrapped them in Foil and put them on his Car Engine while he shoveled her Walkways and Drive. She was delighted to have an unexpected warm meal for Supper.

Those Readers who have ``Storm Stories are welcome to share them as Comments below.

Link: Breaking News, Severe Weather Warnings and more offered here:

2010-02-05T00:12:00.010-05:00

Our area is expecting a Snow Storm over the weekend which puts me in mind of this Link. Click: Free National Emergency Information Alerts Those interested can choose between putting this link in their Favorite Place as a Book Mark, or they can Sign Up and receive Alerts via Email, when applicable. Initially these emails arrived in my Spam Folder. For convenience sake because there can be lots of updates... I left them there since I scan it for Blog related Email that sometimes end up in my Spam Folder by accident. In that way I can read the most recent and don't need to delete the rest. Saves time on my part. *wink

This link not only gives out Severe Weather Warnings in your area, but it offers other Info such as: Pandemic Updates, Homeland Security Alerts, Stock Market Updates, Breaking News Links and the more.

Update:

A Picture of Our Small Grove of Bamboo we keep as a Bird Sanctuary

after 30 Inches of Snow fell in February 2010

Such Depth of Snow is Rarely Experienced in our Little Corner of Paradise

A Cheap, Easy, Clean and Efficient way of cooking and heating

2010-02-04T01:11:00.012-05:00

Understanding the practical Concept behind Rocket Stoves can spawn ingenious ideas for someone with an Off the Grid, Green Living or 'Oh My God, What are we going to do now?' perspective. Rocket Stoves can be made a variety of thrifty ways with easy to find material or they can be bought premade

Rocket Stoves can be made out of a Coffee Can if someone is without power... be it practical camping in the backyard for fun or in an emergency. So finding out how to make one 'just in case' seems like knowledge worth considering.

If you want to know more about Rocket Stoves and Efficient ways of Heating you can do so by following the Links from these and other Bio Mass Fuel Useage YouTube Videos:

click: Aprovecho Rocket Lorena Refugee Stove

liner being covered with clay and sand. It is packed on and left to dry hard like an adobe.

The StoveTec One Door Stove burns wood or agricultural waste like palm fronds more efficiently than does an open fire. But some organizations prefer or need to make stoves locally rather than buying one ready made. This is especially true in refugee situations. One option is to use a StoveTec combustion chamber in a "mud" stove that CAN be made locally. Dean Still demonstrates how to make an Aprovecho Rocket Lorena Refugee Stove from a StoveTec combustion chamber and Lorena (a mixture of clay and sand) that performs like a StoveTec One Door Stove. Dean is CEO of Aprovecho Research Center in Cottage Grove, Oregon. Aprovecho designed the rocket stoves sold by StoveTec, which are manufactured in large quantities in China. See www.stovetec.net for the whole story of these stoves.

click: Cement Rocket stove modified

sbhministry@yahoo.com Video shows two cement stoves and a camping stove from cans. This rocket stove has been modified using cement, rebar, airholes and a way to cook a pot of beans or fry a pan of bacon. It uses very little firewood to keep a pot cooking. The wood can be placed in on two sides.

"3 Billion people need a clean burning stove. Lets work together to make a difference! We want to deliver clean and efficient cook stoves to people that need them. StoveTec doesn’t need patents, or other funky protection for our products. The Aprovecho Research Center is open source to help the 3 billion people cooking on an open fire, and to reduce the number of people that die every year from breathing smoke. Mother Nature needs a lot of help right now to reduce global warming, ill health and deforestation" www.stovetec.net

click: Demonstrating the Use of a StoveTec Rocket Stove

Forming New Habits

2010-02-03T01:11:00.005-05:00

Years back I read or heard that it takes 14 times of doing something to form a habit and wisdom comes through experience. While doing something repeatedly a groove is formed in our brain. The more we do it the deeper the groove is embedded. I have kept this in mind... especially as I have gotten older and desire healthier ways of thinking and being; not only in regard to the wisdom and good habits which could come, but also keeping in mind to the old ones I'd like to replace.

DailyGood a while back seems to confirm what I read years ago. It said: "Brain researchers have discovered that when we consciously develop new habits, we create parallel synaptic paths, and even entirely new brain cells, that can jump our trains of thought onto new, innovative tracks".

I've mentioned the link Daily Good before... for those who missed that link here is a sample from one of their Blogs:

Knowledge is not the same as wisdom."
"Yeah, what's the difference?"
"You know how to clean a windshield, right?"
"Yeah."
"Wisdom is doing it." --Peaceful Warrior

Be The Change:

Do you have knowledge that you are not putting into action because you are waiting for more knowledge? This week translate that knowledge into action ... and perhaps wisdom will arise from the experience.

Oh.... and as your Being the change please keep in mind the ways you use the Key of Balance and you may want to consider Christine Holbaum's Book The Power of Slow. There is a Chapter on Habits. Here is my Review on her and her Book.

Enjoy!

Video Review: Love at it's finest

2010-02-02T01:11:00.004-05:00

The gentle, generous, affectionate personality of Syria a delightful Orangutan who welcomed a Hound Dog into his extended family on this National Geographic Short Video makes it well worth watching. Hubby and I laughed as we watched the bonding process taking place: Love at it's finest

After watching this... once again, I thought of how grateful I am that I have been able to bond with numerous affectionate animals in my lifetime ... in my own little corner of Paradise. Currently, we have a Yellow Naped Amazon Parrot, Virgil who has the charming personality of a 4 or 5 year old. Virgil loves to be with us, to play with us and to please us. He/She? is very curious... and although he's in his early 30's, (he can live to be 75), he never outgrew his nap time. He especially enjoys sleeping on my shoulder or on the perch on the shelf Hubby built above my computer. He understands us... and uses some words, but prefers to use body language and different sounds by way of communication. We are thankful we are tuned into him enough to understand and respond with tenderness. And like most family members is a true joy to be around.

As I think about how appreciative I am that I can be a Parrots Friend, I also think about the nature around us... we are befriending... it's obvious they have grown to trust us and depend upon our loving care. They too bring us lots of joy and companionship we might not have otherwise. We are delighted to have such opportunities... we especially enjoy sharing them with others, in particular grandchildren. Introducing a child to something for the first time is one of life's greatest treasures. Powerful experiences for everyone involved...

Enjoy!

Using the Balance Key ~ Meditating with my Fingertips

2010-02-01T01:11:00.022-05:00

Balance is one of the Keys of Life.

When it comes to the practicality of being prepared through heeding Spiritual Discernment... use the Key of Balance.

Seek to use the Keys of Wisdom and Prudence with it ... think not only of your well being, but the well being of others. Wisdom teaches of our need one for another, our need of loving relationships and our need of balance ... a sound mind.

Think, listen, seek to discern the Spirit of your Heart ... what is your motivation, where is it coming from, how are you choosing to Be? Hopefully it is not of the Spirit of Fear and dead works ... Fear can lead to Hoarding, Obsessing, Greed... Confusion, Oppression leading to Hateful actions and ultimately to Insanity.

Yield to the Spirit and Purity of Love and let it motivate you... Love not only for self but for Other. Tend the Garden of Life and all within it with loving care, Divine wisdom and the Knowing which comes from deep within.

Yield to the Spirit of Truth, let it teach you... empower you to walk in Spirit and Truth manifesting Gifts of the Spirit and Holiness in relationship to all that is.

Surrender to the Holy Spirit within, let it Be your Life Force... your Inner Guide, your Source of Wisdom, Power and Purpose ... the Truth and Fullness of Being one born the Holy and Righteous Spirit of God, Who is the Spirit of Love and all this is and is yet to Be.

Surrender to Your Heavenly Father's Love... Let yourself trust Him for Who He really is and not who you thought He was... Let go of the old and have Faith in and Focus on His Goodness and Faithfulness ... Through Father's Plan of Restoration, His Righteous Spirit of Goodness is birthed and known to those who choose to embrace His New Covenant with us.

May we as a Spiritual Family coming into our own, yield to the Beauty of His unfolding Plan... embracing hope and the fresh awareness and joy of a surrendered Heart being conformed day by day to the Image and Likeness of Christ ... the firstborn of those who were separated from the Spirit of God through the Spirit of Death ... awakened with the Gift of the Spirit of Eternal Life and all it's prevailing Goodness.

DocuMovie Review: Learning from those who have gone before you.

2010-01-31T01:11:00.020-05:00

Considering the earthquake of Haiti from many perspectives; reading about Katrina, and the Tsumani of Sri Lanka from various view points .... one unique example of each linked above .... brings to mind how unprepared we each could be, in some cases will be, if an unexpected Crisis takes place around us or in our own back yard ... especially if as predicted by Scientists, there is an inevitable Global Pandemic which could take many unprepared lives, as suggested via a DocuMovie on The History Channel.

Click: After the Apocalypse, is a Movie Documentary our Public Leaders inspired of a possible worst case Scenario of a Pandemic following it through to it's possible after affects. This DocuMovie is meant to make us think about our part and responsible ways we could prepare ourselves in advance. While I watched the above DocuMovie I thought of practical and simple things people could do to survive as they left the Cities in search of Food and Shelter, if they only knew of them ahead of time. Those depicted in this film, like the average City Dweller were not in tune to nature around them nor were they aware of Basic Survival Skills in cases of an emergency.... something Eagle Scouts and Girl Scouts knew in my day. Insights gleaned from Basis Research and DocuMovie's like the one above and links in other posts at this Blog, will hopefully cause one desiring to be discerning, to think about the wisdom of their own role of preparedness in advance and urge them to take heed and Be ingenious and prudent when practical ... not just in an emergency, but in day to day living.

Although my heart aches for those who are in crisis just now and in need of being rescued with loving wisdom, I am encouraged in observing our Human Family come together to help our 'Brothers and Sisters' Globally no matter how big nor small the need... no matter where or when the need is made evident. I am blessed to see the Spirit of Love being poured out ... and rejoice with the spiritual understanding, the fruits of love and wisdom are being developed in those who choose to walk as it. My heart sings in the knowing our Haitian Family is being given hope... and a new beginning. I have hope that in days to come they will not be forsaken and left behind by those with good intentions now, whose hands were stayed as they were told to wait until ground work is laid making their efforts more efficient and practical. For such a hope... I am grateful.

In seeking for a Link to After the Apocalypse at the History Channel, I came across this On Line Video Movie Documentary there; Prophecies of Armageddon predicted by Computer Web Bots and the surprising truth of the accuracy of the results. Have not watched it yet, I will do so at a later date perhaps. In the meantime, am offering the link for those seeking the Truth of Prophecy and how it affects us individually.

With the above in mind and considering the Global Economy in it's current state, I think the next link is worth considering.

Food for thought Click: What If US Collapses? Soviet Collapse Lessons Every American Needs To Know:

A Note to Those with Investigative Minds: Additional Links provided in my Blogs often lead to a different link about the Topic at Hand, such as Another's Perspective, a Place of Purchase, a Website or Blog, a Related Article or more.

Enjoy!

Repurposing Vintage and Older Quilts

2010-01-30T13:11:00.011-05:00

Just the other day, I was examining two Vintage Quilts my Daughter discovered, to see if they were worth repairing (with Vintage Material I have collected), or if they were worth using for a Craft of some kind. One had a huge hole in it, so it was obvious to me that it needed to be recycled, (vintage scraps could be used to repair the other quilt), it definitely was worthy of being used to make other Crafts.

After I considered these Quilts, an email arrived on the topic: Repurposing Old Quilts

As I read it I thought, 'Wonderful and timely ideas! I need to share these!' One Idea in particular stood out to me; downsizing a damaged quilt into a Baby Quilt. Since my Daughter will be giving birth this Summer this Inexpensive Handmade Gift Idea caught my attention. This informative Article came in due to my being a Subscriber to a Blog: www.Oldtips.blogspot.com I have wanted to tell you all about her Blog for a while now. Today seems to be the perfect day to do so.

With that said, please consider the links above and below and the down to earth advise offered at: Repurposing Old Quilts

Link Review: Swapping Books ~ Free On Line Library Club

2010-01-29T13:11:00.008-05:00

Those of you who like to read may be interested in joining a Free On Line Library Club where Members swap Paperback Books and can keep them if they want or swap them when they are done. Members can request specific books they are looking for. The cost to swap each book costs an average of $2.25 per book you send out. Books sent to you are free of charge to you.... this sure beats having to buy it new and it may not only be a easy way to find a Book that is no longer available otherwise, it may also be the perfect place to find Gift Books. *do keep in mind you can get the Gift Book well in advance and store it until the day it is to be given... avoiding last minute shopping* Link: Swap Paper Back Books

Here is some info you will find if you go to the link above:

You have books in good condition that you do not want to keep.
After you have Posted the first 10 books to your bookshelf, you get 2 "startup" credits from PBS to get you started swapping. After that, you earn credits by sending out books to others. Only the first account for a household receives startup credits.
You may order any available book for 1 credit each (paperback/hardcover). audio books cost 2 credits each.
If you want a book that is not currently available, you can place it on your Wish List and we will notify you by email when it is available for you to order. You can even have it sent to you automatically when it becomes available, with no email necessary.
When a book is requested from you, we notify you by email, provide the address for you to send it out, and even provide a wrapper!
wrap and mail your book.
When the requestor receives it, you earn 1 credit (2 if it is an audio book). Yes, you pay the postage to send out your books, but when you request a book, the sender ships it to you free of charge!
The books you receive from PBS are yours. We hope that you will repost them to share with other members when you have read them, but you can certainly keep them, or give them away. Similarly, the books you send out to others belong to their new owners.

Paper Back Swap is a great way to share books with people all over the country!

Book Excerpt: The Truth of Sufficiency

2010-01-27T01:11:00.051-05:00

My hubby has been given a gift of creativity and the nature to be ingenious. One of the comments he says a lot to those who are open to the wisdom he has received is, "Sometimes, if we look around us we will see we already have what we think we don't. We just need to stop and think, to see things from a fresh perspective." It is then he will show the listener something he has designed or recycled into something else. After such moments he will often remind me, his eyes expressing delight, "Necessity is the mother of invention."

Below is an example of one of these projects. We wanted a Privacy Fence around our Bedroom Windows and Hot Tub area, since we have so many people "Drop By". Hubby has lots of slabs of wood left over from when he trims off the sides of the Cedar Logs on his homemade Saw Mill, he uses to create slabs for the hand carved Log Furniture the so he decided to recycle some of them by making us a Privacy Fence. The Saw Mill is another one of his ingenious projects... more on that in Future Blog. Hubby is making Birdhouses from scraps to go on top of the Logs that he used as braces between each panel of the Fence. Since the Slabs varied in size, he decided to cut them in curves with a wave pattern. The Picture below is the day after the Snow Storm of the winter of 2009. Mature Ornamental Grasses averaging 5'x8' are planted in front of the Fence and across from them, outlining a Circular Drive. A Friend had about 500 of them at their Lake House, they offered us as many as we wanted because they were redesigning their Gardens. We drove the lovely drive of an hour and half and dug up 50 of them. We used them to fulfill our desire to have a Circular Driveway Border and used the rest to decorate our acreage in other ways. We also gave some away and each year we give their babies away, whenever we decide the Mother Plants need to be thinned out or they self sow. We leave these Ornamental Grasses up all year, only cutting them back in the Spring... because their winter blooms are not only attractive, but they are seeds for the Wildlife and their maturity offers a Habitat covering for smaller animals. I will post Summer Pictures of these Ornamental Grasses in a future Blog, so you can appreciate the beauty of them and the graceful wave of the Privacy Fence behind some of them. We use the Fence to grow Colorful Fragrant Vines and as a Trellis for Veggies in the Summer, as well.

I thought of that aspect of my hubby

when I read this excerpt from the Book:

Soul of Money By Lynne Twist

The Surprising Truth of Sufficiency

'We each have the choice in any setting to step back and let go of the mind-set of scarcity. Once we let go of scarcity, we discover the surprising truth of sufficiency. By sufficiency, I don’t mean a quantity of anything. Sufficiency isn’t two steps up from poverty or one step short of abundance. It isn’t a measure of barely enough or more than enough. Sufficiency isn’t an amount at all. It is an experience, a context we generate, a declaration, a knowing that there is enough, and that we are enough.

In our relationship with money, it is using money in a way that expresses our integrity; using it in a way that expresses value rather than determines value. Sufficiency is not a message about simplicity or about cutting back and lowering expectations. Sufficiency doesn’t mean we shouldn’t strive or aspire. Sufficiency is an act of generating, distinguishing, making known to ourselves the power and presence of our existing resources, and our inner resrouces. Sufficiency is a context we bring forth from within that reminds us that if we look around us and within ourselves, we will find what we need. There is always enough.

I am not suggesting that there is ample water in the desert or food for the beggards in Bombay. I am saying that even in the presence of genuine scarcity of external resources, the desire and capacity for self-sufficiency are innate and enough to meet the challenges we face. It is precisely when we turn our attentions to these inner resources – in fact, only when we do that – that we can begin to see more clearly the sufficiency in us and available to us, and we can begin to generate effective, sustainable responses to whatever limitations of resources confront us. When we let go of the chase for more, and consciously examine and experience the resources we already have, we discover our resources are deeper than we knew or imagined. In the nourishment of our attention, our assets expand and grow.' Excerpt from click: Soul of Money Author: Lynne Twist

Enjoy!

A UK Homestead 'City' Community Video Venture

2010-01-26T12:46:00.007-05:00

River Cottage Urban Smallholding (1 of 5) "Beginnings"

Hugh brings River Cottage to the City.
Segment 1 of 5 - the start.
From "River Cottage Spring" Series 1 broadcast June 2008 on Channel 4 (UK).

Hubby came across this Green, eco friendly YouTube Video Series about being connected to the land whether your in the country or city... about a Community of several Families growing their own food and live stock on a small plot of land via a UK Project last evening ... thought it might be timely having just posted regarding the Movie 'Our Daily Bread". It seems to fit in... and some of you might find this Video Venture interesting and informative as well as inspiring ... especially if your seeking to live off the Grid as much as possible.

By the way... in some parts of the world, this is the perfect time of the year to start your food seeds indoors. Typically that would be cool weather plants like Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brussel Sprouts and plants that take a while to grow before producing fruit, such as Peppers, Tomatoes and Melons. You don't have to have a Green House for starting your own plants from seeds. A warm sunny window or two will work too, Whether your interested in having a few plants on your Patio or if you want to avoid the cost of buying prestarted Veggies Plants for a larger growing area, getting a early start on the home front is usually economical in the long run. More on this topic and other Frugal Gardening Tips coming soon.

Enjoy!


3 lbs. Tree-Ripened Oranges 2 lbs. Premium Red Delicious Apples 1 lb. New Crop Chilean Plums 4 Washington State Anjou Pears 4 Washington State Fuji Apples 4 Tree Ripened Tangerines 2 Tree Ripened Red Grapefruit 6 pack 1 oz. Boxes Premium Sun Dried Raisins 3 lbs. Premium Red A-Size Potatoes 2 lbs. Premium Yellow Onions 1 head Premium Leafy Green Cabbage 1 lb. Premium Whole-Peeled Baby Carrots 1 lb. Dried Pinto Beans