HOLIDAYS.............ST. PATRICKS DAY

HOLIDAYS....ST. PATRICKS DAY

Its almost March! I think "Spring" may be around the corner as we sit with 10"of snow!

The next holiday is St. Paddie's day as some call it. I have to admit I don't usually do alot of decorating for this holiday except maybe wear "green" that day if I remember.

My husband loves history and so do I. We watched a little program on "Chicago's history" and how it was built. I was taken back at the hard times and work others endured so we could enjoy this beautiful city. In fact, the Irish came and worked and toiled to build canals for days and weeks at a time with poverish wages and housing. But they endured and worked together along with their families and finished the work to produce the now end product of Chicago.

That gave me a "new appreciation" for the Irish and their celebrations of endurance! Every year in Chicago , in honor of this day they "dye" the river green. I have also heard the story of how there is a certain family that has been in charge of this project for many years!

This year in celebration of families that have endured and worked togther for a cause my decorating will include a little green! ha

Here are a few ideas I have to celebrate:

~~Have a "green milkshake at Mc'ds

1. Set a "special green table" for the day with paper napkins; plates; and green tea lights




2. Cut strips of green and white construction paper and make a chain to hang up




3. Make shamrock cupcakes

Have fun and make it a celebration of fun for you and your family.

PERSONAL CARE............ OUR WORDS

PERSONAL CARE.........." OUR WORDS"

I came across this verse this week; "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer." I remember when I had this little verse printed on a 3x5 card and stuck above my kitchen sink. I don't remember why I put that verse there but I do remember many times washing my dishes and glancing up and seeing that verse!

I don't consider myself to have trouble with "words" to others but you know what God knows are hearts and he knew mine and knew I needed to be reminded to heed to my "words". Why would I put "words" in my "personal care" list for this week and not things like "keeping up your nails; using lotions; or any other personal item. I guess, I thought this is just as important to our "personal care" in our lives.

"Words" can be so uplifting. Words can hurt. Words can encourage. But sometimes its so hard to say "the right thing" when we want to say what we feel. I can see how this verse as well as others can teach us to "do" the right thing even when we don't "feel" like it! We use words so much in our everyday lives. We talk to our loved ones each day; we talk on our house phones and cell phones; we send emails and even "blog". What are we doing with our words?

Here are a few things that I need to help me remember my "words"

1. Stop and think before I speak



2. Help me to find "the good" in someone



3. Sometimes I don't have to say anything at all. * Not when were mad (ha)



4. Learn from our mistakes



5. Praise



6. Think...have I made someone feel better or worse about themselves today

This is an everyday learning experience for me. I have to constantly remind myself of these things. I will probably fail many times but I hope those who's lives I come in contact with will be uplifted with my "words" and that their lives would be blessed.

DECORATING..........COLLECTIONS

DECORATING.....COLLECTIONS

I love collecting "old books" especially "old children's books" by authors such as Kate Douglass Wiggins; Kate Greenaway and others. I loved the idea that years ago mothers and young children might have read these classics together. And I enjoy the "character training" so many of the old books gave. Many of the books had beautiful leather-bound covers and pictures which made them look so nice on a bookshelf as well. I would find most of my books at library sales; or corners of antique shops; or tag sales in the summer for a couple of dollars or less.

I enjoy this collection but I do admit I have ridden out so not to have too many.

My sister Barbara told me that when you decorate with a collection you should have "some" but not too many. I thought that was very wise and thus was careful what I put out.

Other small things I have enjoyed collecting and use to decorate are vintage items; old linens and dishes; old pottery bunnies ( I use at Easter); and some tea cups. My sister collects beautiful "waterglobes" but only displays them on one shelf in a cabinet. My mom collected things to do with birds. Another friend likes old books and old children's games. My daughter collects " children's books".

Here a few tips on keeping your collections:

1. Keep them simple. * too much can look like clutter instead of a collection ha


2. Keep them dusted and clean


3. Rid out of those you don't really need or if you don't need anymore give away


4. Let others know if you are still collecting an item or in need of another thing now


5. Collections should be something you love, not "stuff" to gather


6. Set a price limit on what you can afford.

*One time I was telling an elderly lady in my church of my old book collection and she got so excited and asked me if I ever saw books from "The Little Coronel Series". She had read them when she was young. Without telling her I asked the Lord to help me find these books for her.

I would find them one by one for a year until the series was complete. She was so excited to keep getting these but I was very excited to find them to bring her joy!

OTHERS...............FAMILY

OTHERS................FAMILY TIMES

When I think of "others" the first that comes to mind is my family. I dont want to ever think I could bake something; entertain someone; care for someone; more than I would ever do for our family. There are times we can bake something for someone who is ll but I try and make extra for my family or try to make something similar for them.

I have been telling my daughter; Ruthie all Fall and then Winter. Someday............ I want to take you to the little tea shop in town. We must have driven by that "tea shop" a million times.

It just was not the time nor day to go. But Saturday there was a "slot" of time for us and we all went. My daughter Becky; Ruthie; and now Baby Ella. I was thrilled! I was so happy to be with my girls. I was saddened abit because my daughter-in-law Jenny could not be with us; but she and my son ; Josh are busy serving as Youth Pastor and pianist in Reno, Nevada.

Family times are important no matter where they live! I only lived near my parents after married for a short time then my husband and I ; because of his job; moved farther away.

But in that time we never forgot our family. Letters; now email; pictures; and phone calls keep us together.

Family times can be spur of the moment get togethers; picnics; dinners; McDonalds; or anyplace that you can be together. We would spend one week each summer at "camp" serving ; so we could be where are children were to have fun!

Here are some ideas to serve Others being Family.

1. Bake cookies for "another family" and save some for your family.

2. If you have several children plan "date times" with each one seperately.

3. Look for ways to say " I love you" to each family member

4. Pray for them

5. Whatever you would do for someone else; do it for someone in your family

6. Teach them to live for others and love their family.

7. Have a game night planned, picnic, mini-vacations; ice-cream nights

Family time is for you to plan. It doesn't have to cost alot; just your time together means so much!

THOUGHTS............ONE MOMENT AT A TIME

THOUGHTS........ONE MOMENT AT A TIME

This last week my husband brought me home these beautiful flowers! I loved them!!!

But the reason I loved them so much was the thought behind them. You see my husband had left early that morning around 6 am and had worked hard all day and traveled to Chicago and back 2 -3 times that day. He came home around 7 pm with a small bag of groceries in hand and hanging down by his side were the flowers! I loved that moment and thanked him for his care.

But you see, I know all "moments" are not flowers and candy. In fact, most of "life's" dealings are with the "dailys" of life. I have talked with others that have said "What will I do?"; or how do I even go on?". I am not a expert in solving anyone's problems but I do know what I went through and how God took me through them. He took me "one moment at a time"!

Last year, when my husband was in the hospital for a month; months of healing; and going through the death of my daddy and his dad and other things all at the same time were happening I just stopped and took a breath and prayed. And then came grace............... Grace to take a "moment at a time".

I wanted to take all the problems in at one time and solve them. I like to solve problems! ha

But......... I needed to concentrate and take the problem at hand and focus on what needed to be done that day; that hour; or that moment!

There are friends that I know are going through cancer treatments; financial setbacks; marriage problems; and other trials. These problems can seem overwhelming at the time but if you divide them into moments they can seem so much smaller.

Here are a few ideas to help you enjoy "one moment at a time"

1. Give your day to the Lord and then change what you can then let God take care of the rest!
2. Buy a notebook and list the problems that need tackled. Sometimes they look better on paper.
3. Don't go tell everyone your problems. This is hard but take it to God then choose a wise lady who could encourage you.
4. Plan out your day as much as possible and put in positive things to enjoy that day.
5. Dont be a "chicken little" and run around telling yourself "The sky is falling"........
6. Learn to find the "best" of the situation.
7. Claim a verse in the Bible! Pray even if you don't feel like it and tell God you don't feel like it!
8. Get rest if possible and try to eat healthy. If you eat that whole bowl of chocolate chip cookie dough will it really help later? Eat a big spoonful if you must then laugh!!
9. Treasure "moments" in time as God may be showing you something very special.
10. Sometimes things are tough. Cry if you must then wash you face and get back up!

I will treasure "moments" when my husband brings me home "flowers" or buys me my favorite coffee; or prays with me; or anytime days are happy and peaceful. But I know "life" can change at any moment. When that happens I pray I can take "one moment at a time".

RECIPES..............CHICKEN POT PIE

RECIPES ...................CHICKEN POT PIE

There are so many great recipes out there for chicken pot pie! My dear friend Julie;has a nice one for individual chicken pot pies all decorated for special dinners. This can be found on "Ladies of Grace". Another dear friend; Debra gave me a chicken pot pie recipe from scratch using whole wheat flour and fresh vegatables. Some add chedder cheese. But for me; this is the one I use when in a hurry and it seems to be well liked by my family. The picture above is our chicken pot pies before they were baked. My daughter ; Becky and I were having a good time putting these together as she drew her "smiley face" on one!

Chicken Pot Pie

Yield: 2- 8" pies.

2 chicken breasts- boiled and shredded

1 bag of frozen veggie * We like small carrots; beans; peas ect...

2 cans of low fat cream of chicken soups

1 bunch of flat leaf parsley * one small handful diced

salt and pepper

1 package of frozen pie crust *you can use whole wheat or white

1 package of Puff Pastry

1. * Set out your Puff Pastry early to thaw

2. Set out your pie crust

3. In large bowl combine chicken; veggies; soups; parsley; s and p

4. Fill each crust evenly

5. Top each with 1 crust each Puff Pastry * Set on cookie sheet in case of spills

Bake-350 for 15-20 min or bubbly and brown

Serve with a nice green salad or a muffin.

HOLIDAYS..............EVERYDAY PARTIES

HOLIDAYS..............EVERYDAY PARTIES!!!

We all have times of celebration! If it is not a holiday it is a birthday or celebration for some other special occasion. When my children were young we always made birthdays special with a cake; streamers; blow up balloons; and a decorated table. The atmosphere was definitely more important that the gifts themselves. I just wanted to say; "You are special and this is your day!". Other times the children and I might plan a "I love you " party for their dad after he had worked such long and hard hours. One time we had a "Congratulations on "finishing the Scuba Diving lessons he and my son had taken together". The girls and I were so excited to find small fish crackers; a cake made with blue water and divers; swedish fish; gummy worms; paper plates with little fish on them and blue and white balloons! The girls had "tea parties" with cups and saucers and little cakes and dressed up and sat outside on a blanket. And dont forget "campfire party where we all wore bandanas and cowboy hats and had a campfire meal.

These may all sound silly; but for me they are all fun little memories. Thats what a celebration is.............. a memory to say your special. I suppose you could come up with a celebration for anything. My mom (now 88) never really ate fast food as she was traveling in a car. After my dad passed away last year this became a new thing for her to experience. So ...... with this new experience she made a name for it. She calls it " A Hobo Lunch". We all laughed at this and said why? She said I feel like I am a traverler on the run eating my lunch. So..... now we all celebrate this "Hobo Lunch" and when we call gramma we tell her "Oh today we had a hobo lunch!"

You can make any celebration fun........... Here are a few tips for celebrations!!!!

1. They do not have to be expensive. Use whatever balloons; streamers; nice plates and things on hand to make a party.

2. Go to a dollar store where you can find all party needs. Or buy plain colored plates; cups to use again and again.

3. Try and remember birthdays. Keep them on a calendar. If not send a card; or a call! * We had a close family members funeral on my daughters birthday so we celebrated later.

4. Use a theme when having small children. Remember it to have fun not to impress others.

5. Use small bags to take treats home for others of just a small reminder.

6. Think of ways to celebrate for those you love. Birthday; work; good grades; tried hard; cancer treatments; just because; promotion; kind to someone......

Whatever you do ........make it a memory!

PERSONAL CARE........MAKE UP

PERSONAL CARE............MAKE UP

I grew up with 4 sisters ( one now in heaven) and one brother. All of my sisters loved make up and as I grew older they promptly set me down and helped me learn about skin care and make up. In fact , my one sister Joyce, is a make up artist and very good. She has worked for companies such as Chanel; Estee Lauder; and Lancome. When I was a young woman I use to think I really didnt have time to take care of such things as my skin and all that went with it.

But now at age 51 I know it is important! Still to this day when my sisters and I all get together we still ask my sister Joyce questions about our make up and skin care! There are times when we were able to meet in Chicago together and we end up at a make up counter ; laughing and getting our faces done!

I know this may sound vain; but I do think its important to do our best with what we have.

My husband doesnt care for too much make up that gives that "pasty clown" look ; but I think if we learn how and what we need that it can enchance what we have!

Here are some tips I have learned about make up and skin care from my sister Joyce;

** I have asked her for some inexpensive and affordable tips and items.

1. Always clean your skin with a cleanser. ( When I was young I could use Dove but now a little cleanser goes a long way...) She liked "Loreal" cleansers. Buy at Walmart.

2. Use a toner; and a moisturizer ( a small dab) all over. Again "Loreal" . Find for your skin type. Dry; oily; or mixture. Buy at Walmart.

3. Concealor- I use to think what is this really for? Until I turned 40. I use this in a small dab right under the eye ( not to look white); and blend and blend. "Loreal" at Walmart.

Sometimes I have found specials on the end caps of the isle where they had concealor and base make up at a special price.

4. Make-up base- Find a color closest to your skin on your wrist if in a discount store otherwise; go to a dept store and have a "make-over" down at a cosmetic counter and use the colors they show best on your skin. Also be sure to use your skin type. "Loreal" Walmart.

5. Blush- Use a soft blend upward on cheeks. Stick with a blend of blush to look natural. "Loreal"

6. Eyes- Use a natural color for your skin tone such as soft plum; wheat; or taupes. Using blues; icy pinks; bright greens do not always work for everyone. "Loreal"

7. Eye liner- Purchase a soft pencil ( brown; black; taupe) to line the eye on top very simply and blending to not look harsh.

8. Mascara- Use brown or black and do upper and lower lashes. You may use an "eye-lash"curler. "Loreal mascara"

9. Powder- Use Translusent or AirSpun. I like Coty. Walgreens. This is to softly set your face.

10. Blend- This is the last tip she gave. To always blend; blend whatever you apply.

You may have allergies to certain cosmetics so you may have to go to a place like Clinique at the dept store to help you with this. Whatever you choose to do; remember it is to add to what you already have.. I have met some ladies who wanted to wear make-up but they just didnt know how. Ask for help.:) Enjoy!

DECORATING FOR THE HOME..........USING WHAT YOU HAVE

DECORATING........USING WHAT YOU HAVE

When it comes to decorating your home sweet home everyone has their own taste and style.

Many books have been written on this subject but what we really want is to have a place that is clean; comfortable and our own style.

Thats why I Love "using what I have" and then going from there. Where do we start?

I hate to say it but its true. Cleaning out clutter. Anything that we do not use or need should be ridded out. It only takes about an hour of our time to take one room and "de-clutter" it.

Even then your room will take on a different glow. The "stuff" you plan to give to the thrift store has to have a "place" to be and can only stay for a short while or it might become a room of its own.

Now that you room is all clean and smelling fresh (ha ha) its time to put in new things. What color would you like to add to that room. * My sister Phyllis gave me a nice print to go in a kitchen in red; white; and apple greens. I loved that little picture and put it in a black frame I had and hung it in my kitchen. I loved the colors in that little picture and began finding things around my house that had those colors in it. A red box to store things; apple green kitchen towels; and a pretty white pitcher. And three little clear vases I picked up for .25 a piece to put three colorful flowers in. All new and fresh.

One time, I looked around at my furniture that was brown; bumped and bruised here and there. An inspiration came to paint all the furniture to match ( only do this on old stuff ha); and I painted all the furniture 'black". It really ended up looking like a new livingroom and some thought I had gotten new furniture. It all matched . Then I pulled in sofa pillows and other things from around the house and it became a whole new room . The cost was under $10.

Many times I would paint a wall or my kitchen cabinets for free because my friend's husband was a painter and she would have left-over paint for me to have while I gave her other things I didn't need for her to use.

Be inspired and "use what you have" and see what you can come up with.

Here are a few more ideas of where you can find things to decorate your home.

1. As you go for that "healthy walk" in the summer just glance at what someone may have set out for the trash. I have seen the nicest small chairs and tables this way.

2. If you need to find space in your home for a special use be creative. An example: If you need an office ( use a desk and chair in a corner) . If you need a corner to read ( use a nice comfy chair and a basket beside it). If you need a place for crafts. ( use a small table and chair and dividers)

3. Each season use the seasons bounty such as Summer-flowers; Fall-pumpkins and leaves; Winter-pinecones; and Spring-tulips or paperwhites

4. Look around your house for things you haven't used for awhile and put some things away and bring others out.

Let me know what you come up with "using what you have".

OTHERS.............ENCOURAGEMENT

DOING FOR OTHERS.......ENCOURAGEMENT

I saw this photo of a lady and her children that lived during the Great Depression". Times were hard for people during those days but I wonder what kept her going? Maybe it was her faith and her God; maybe it was her family and her love; but maybe someone encouraged her.

Encouragement. I love the word! In our world today there are so many out there that could use just a little encouragement. Mrs. Marlene Evans used to say; " Give people what they want!". If they need some attention; then give it. If for the third time they come and say "oh I just never look pretty". Then tell them they always look nice. They might need it. She would tell us ladies that sometimes you have to look for the "gold glittering" in others.

Sometimes we will come across someone who is ready to quit. She can't go on another day.
Maybe if we could just encourage her to try it for one more week; or to do the next thing......;
then things would look better. My friend and a pastor's wife; Mrs. Julie Fink; taught me; when you don't feel like doing what your suppose to do......... " Just do the next thing; then the next; then the next and before you know it things are looking up."

There are many ways to show encouragement to others or to yourself.....
Here are a few I have learned over the years.

1.Upon awaking everyday....Thank God for that day and whisper a prayer for others that might be having a very bad day today or a very good day today.

2. Have a schedule you do everyday. "Do the next thing"

3. Have goals for everyday; week; monthly *Keep this simple but positive

4. Keep good encourging music on such as "Patch the Pirate " CD's, uplifting music, etc.........

5. Read your Bible everyday and have a good book that you are reading through to keep your mind fresh and inspired.

6. Don't listen to negative things or others that can quench your spirit.

7. Encourage others and be a good listener and encourage them to keep on and laugh! Laughter helps so much and is such good medicine.

8. Sometimes just telling others they're doing a good job is all they need.

9. Praise!

10. You're not there to take away their problems; just give them an encouraging word.

Whatever you choose to be or do in this world will be up to you. I would love to be known for being an encourager!

IT ONLY TAKES A FEW MINUTES ...........TO SMILE

IT ONLY TAKE A FEW MINUTES ....TO GIVE A SMILE

The other day I was out grocery shopping. As I was looking down at the "roast on sale" for Sunday's supper, I noticed another cart right in front of me with a nice lady shopping for a roast also. All of a sudden she bumped her coffee and it went flying all over the place but mostly on the floor............ I spoke up with a smile and said" I hate when that happens" and tried to make her smile but she had no time for that. She huffed and went moving on leaving her "accident" on the floor for someone to pick up. I thought: "She must not be nice; not even a Smile!:)" As I went on about my way; I felt the Lord saying that she might have had a bad day and that coffee was the last straw in her life.! Whatever it was for, I was glad that someone had taught me to "take a few moments and give her a smile:)".

It's funny how hard that is for some! It only takes a few muscles and turned upright and there it is a Smile! The picture I have used today was taken from a lady and her child from a country near China. I can see her smile and joy within her soul although she lives in adverse circumstances.

I enjoy writing to our lady missionaries who are serving in foreign countries with their husband and children. Sometimes its only a line or two . Sometimes it is just putting my name on a birthday card and sending that. I want that smile to travel its way to their homes and into their hearts and lives. Smiles travel for miles!!!!!

I know sometimes our lives get in a hurry; we have our own set of troubles and things to do but I believe a smile can even make or break someone's day. Our pastor's wife and my Sunday school teacher's wife always have a smile for me. I know that sounds so selfish but its a real and sincere smile that makes me feel good inside.

Look around you in this world. Is there an older woman sitting on that bench near the store?

Give her a smile. Is there a little child that is acting up for a mother in the Drs office? Give that child a smile. Is there a shy withdrawn lady standing outside of the circle of ladies that you are talking with? Give her a smile. I really don't think we are doing every else a favor by giving a "pretend" smile but I know we are giving our heart and God's heart to someone who like in this picture gives so much more back to you!

RECIPES.............ITALIAN SPAGHETTI DINNER

MOM'S ITALIAN SPAGHETTI

I know everyone has their favorite spaghetti recipe but all my family uses my moms recipe.

It is not fancy but the flavor is so good. I hope you enjoy.

Serves 6

1 lb lean beef

1 large can Hunts Tomato Sauce

1 box Kraft Spaghetti Dinner ( we LOVE the spices in this mix) and thats why we use it

1 16 box of whole wheat noodles

1 onion (opt)

1. Cook beef till brown . Drain off any fat. * if prefer onion dice and add here

2. Add spices and stir in with 1 large can of tomato sauce

3. Meanwhile: have a large pot of boling water and when ready boil noodles; and drain.

4. When ready to serve ; WE serve each plate from the stove to the table.

You may add garlic bread and a fresh green salad if you prefer!

* If you want to serve a larger group you may double and freeze leftovers.

* If your eating healthier you may have 1 cup of main dish and 1/2 garlic bread and salad.

HOLIDAYS......ORGANIZING HOLIDAY THINGS

HOLIDAYS...ORGANIZING HOLIDAY THINGS

The next holiday is over and its time to put another holiday away. But wait..........we go to the basement and pile it upon the Christmas glass candlesticks; the 4th of July snack trays and next to your husbands golfclubs! Oh my! No wonder we hesitate to enjoy holidays with all the stuff we have to do before and after. I know because in years past I have been there at times.

But now (at my age); I enjoy things with more organization and simplicity to them including holiday decorating.

My daughter Becky always uses clear plastic containers and organizes by holiday or season and labels the boxes to be stacked away. She also always throws out anything that is broken; worn out; or we don't really need. In fact, this year I took a small tote full of valentine things to a ladies meeting I attended and asked if anyone could use them and they went right away!

My daughter-in-law; Jenny uses canvas totes and blue storage boxes and again labels them so she can get to them right away. On her canvas totes she labels these and has them on hand on her upper shelves.

"A place for everthing and everything in its place" I have heard said. This is not always feasible but we can try with some help.

Maybe we don't have the time to go through all the things we have had stored and its a big mess. Sometimes getting help from someone you know who is good at organizing or a sister or friend can help.

Here are a few ideas I have received from others............

1. Take one hour and work on a corner of these things and have 2 piles Keep and Give

2. Look over your holiday fun things and think : Do I need to update some of these or rid out?

3. If you can't afford a container just yet; use a sturdy box that is labeled or for small things the shoe stores such as Payless "give away" their boxes.

4. Ask for help or go to the library for 1 good book on organizing.

When you are done with this task; I can almost guarantee that you will feel a "load' has been lifted. :)

Happy Valentine's Day!

Personal Care- Looking through Rose-Colored Glasses

LOOKING THROUGH LIFE THROUGH ROSE COLORED GLASSES

Happy Valentines Day! I have been told many times that I look through life through rose-colored glasses! I admit I used to feel bad or embarrassed about this but now I am happy to look through my life through God's eyes whether rose or not! I have to laugh and think how life would look if I saw it through the stormy clouds that hover above or through the blinding snow fearful and sad!

I have to DECIDE to LOOK ............ through HIs eyes and see His beauty He has given me!

When you gaze through those beautiful glasses..........you see amazing things such as a sweet baby smiling the most precious smile towards you.............you see your dad at age 90 sitting in a hospital bed not with failing health but with joy singing " Let Me Call You Sweetheart" with you and your sister; you see a hard working husband lying on a cold cement floor under a machine with tools to fix and know this is putting food on your table. You see a son and daughter-in-law serving God accross the country away from family and friends and the joy they are having bringing new families to their church. You see the sun sparkle upon the newly fallen snow early early in the morning as you sip a cup of warm coffee and read the Bible.

You see life as thankful; purposeful; meaningful and knowing that what you are doing right where you are ..................is where you are suppose to be and that is your job!

I would rather look through my days with rose-colored glasses and enjoy it than to feel doomed and small. What is it today?

Lack of Food?................make what you have and serve it on your best china

Lack of Finances?................. make a budget with what you have and do what you can .

Lack of or tired of the same old clothes or house................put on those glasses and be creative and spruce up yourself and your home.

Lack of Smiles? .............Read you Bible and change that attitude!

Have a wonderful day, and Happy Valentines Day!!!!!!

DECORATING...............GOING TO GRAMMA'S

DECORATING.......GOING TO GRAMMA'S

Growing up I did not have a gramma.........but my mother always made things fun and child friendly. We did not live near my mother when my children were growing up but when we would visit she would have coloring books and crayons; glue; rides in the Radio Flyer Red Wagon; books to read or she would read to us; treats; and other fun things.

When my children were young, we would make tents over the kitchen table and take a flashlight underneath to read books ; they would pretend with a kitchen towel pinned to the back of a shirt ; or sheer curtains to make a bride.

We would have a book reading contest each summer and make visits to the library each week. We would even make the girls an apron and they would get a pretty button to put on their apron for every so many books and our son had a baseball field made out of felt where he would get a baseball for every so many books and win a baseball at the end.

We would go on walks and pick out rocks; leaves; flowers; or other things that we would bring back and glue to paper and then proudly display them on the refrigerator.

Now that I am a gramma I want my grandchildren to come to my home and be a child! I went to visit a friend ; Denise; one day and the minute I walked into their home I saw that they were grandparents. On one small wall stood a beautiful wooden shelf unit ( like the ones in a day care) with nice red tubs on each shelf. They were labeled and the theme of Raggedy Ann and Andy prevailed. She had books; craft items; puzzles; and other ideas. She told me the grandchildren know where to go when they get there and how to clean up as they play, They love to come visit and I know gramma enjoys it as well.

I know we don't want to overclutter our homes with too many toys and things that break and make a mess but I think the idea of an area where they know they can be a child is smart. My granddaughter is only 3 months old so she doesn't require things to do as yet but long before she came I found a nice little wooden rocker and a small wooden rocking horse at a yard sale. I put it into a corner for future use. Many a child that has visited our home has come to rock in that rocker . At the same time, I had a shelf in a closet where I kept a few coloring books; crayons; plain paper; glue; and simple games. Again, when my girls would babysit in our home these came out and the chldren always seem to know where we kept them. I enjoy collecting "old children books" from the 1940's or 1950's and Little Golden Books by Eloise Wilkens for some time. I love the chubby old-fashion pictures as well as the character messages behind them. I plan to read these soon to my grandbaby.

Whatever, you decide to do.......Make your home a welcome home! When that little one comes to visit and shys behind the mother's knees "Ask her..............would you like to color?" and watch her smile. Bring out the bubbles and have some fun! Make your home a clean; peaceful; fun home to come to.

What are some idea you do for little ones coming to your home?

OTHERS............SERVING WHEN " ITS NOT CONVENIENT"

SERVING OTHERS WHEN " ITS NOT CONVENIENT"

It can be a fairly easy task to "serve" or do for others when its convenient..........but illness; an accident; a prolonged illness; a new baby; a stroke; or any other "event" can happen to someone and when it does it can stop you in your tracks. My sister Barbara called me the other day and said she and some other ladies from her church had just finished house cleaning for a person in their church who had been in a terrible accident and left this person unable to walk and in a wheelchair. I know she worked hard and it wasnt an easy task. I also know my sister cares for our mom now in her home as well as her family and many other things. But..............she took some time out of her life to care for others. That doesn't surprise me about her as she does this often when she is able.

I can recall when I was bedridden and had to have "help" in moving. I just closed my eyes and said thank you. They cleaned under things; packed; and set up my new home with my husband and famiy . This helped me as well as our family.

I have tried to repay such kindness and care to others in my life. A dear friend (my age) suffered a stroke two years ago. Our church set up a group of ladies to visit and care for her each week. I lived near her and went as often as I could. We were to read to her; talk with her; or do what was needed. I helped her paint her nails; wrote down what we talked about when I was there; eat; wash her hair; laugh ; or help talk with her children. She went from not being able to talk; walk; eat on her own; or even open her eyes to now eating ; talking; and taking steps!!! What a blessing for me to be with her!

I remember a New Years Eve day there was a funeral at our church. We have "a group of ladies " that are called upon on to care for a dinner after the funeral to care for the family. Was it a convenient day to go; carry food; set up tables to look pretty; and stay until they were all served; talked; and cared for? No, but again it was a greater blessing to have cared for this family and see their comfortable faces as they sat and had time to be with their families after such a time in their lives.

Serving is not always an easy task. Most of the time there is not someone standing with a "giant sign" stating "GREAT JOB" , " YOU'RE THE BEST"; but in the quiet of a moment you may see a stronger person; a thank you and a hug from a lady after a funeral; or a young mother and her children now settled and ready for the next day..........

You may be called on to clean and tidy a house; iron a basket of clothes; make a meal; do some laudry; scrub a toliet; clean up after someone's ill tummy; plant some flowers; mow a lawn; rake a yard and decorate for fall; calm a crying baby; clean up something icky or trash or any other pleasant thing. ...ha ha

Here are some ideas I have learned that may help as you serve and help others when its not convenient.............

~ Before planning to help; check your schedule with your family and then make a time you can help.

~Make a time you can go and then stick with that time. If it is an hour ; then go for an hour and do what your suppose to do.

~ Plan what you are going to do "Before" you get there but be flexible to their needs.

~ If possible and the person could use some encouragement; take a small bouquet of flowers or a bag of goodies for little children.

~ When you get there "don't" spend your time chatting with others. You can work and talk at the same time.

.~BE POSITIVE!!!!!

~ Pray for that person when you're not there.

~If you go to a home to do a task; greet the other family but let them go about their business. They probably are glad you are there to help so they can finally get their things done.

~ Do not ever make the person feel their home or anything is "a mess" ; just do what needs done and leave "all" of their life there! * I had a friend who was bedridden and she called me .........desperate and when I arrived her toddler had dumped a whole box of Cherrios all over her living room floor and was sitting in the middle of them eating her heart out! We laughed then and still 20 years later laugh about it now!

~ Remember you are there to "lift their load" not take over their life.

I am thankful for those that have "cared" for me when I needed it. I hope this helps you to "serve when its not convenient"!

STARBUCKS AND AVOCADOS

STARBUCKS AND AVOCADOS

Since this is the week of Valentine's Day, I thought I would share a "love story". You see,last week was a normal busy week in our house. My husband was very busy at our print shop and we did what we do most of our days................ get up; get dressed; get ready for our days............ This particular day was not any different, other that 2-3 snowstorms heading our way the following days .......... My husband called me a couple of times during the day to chat a little and I would see him around dinnertime. Well, around 4 o'clock I hear the car coming into the garage and in he and my daughter walk and I look up and there in his hand was a plastic baggie filled with 2 avocados and in the other hand a Starbucks coffee! I looked in surprise; and said , " For me?'................. " Yes my husband replied with a grin. ..... I knew you liked them"

Like them............ I loved them! And you know what............... I really loved them because He bought me something I loved! He thought just about me!

Now some ladies might think she is so crazy. Coffee and an avocado? Oh yes indeed!

People show LOVE in different ways in life.................... Some show love loud and bold while others quietly slip in an expression like no other. Some shout it from the mountaintops while some sit and whisper a prayer.

Sometimes we look for LOVE in wrong ways and maybe we should look a littler closer.

Here are some ways you might find LOVE this week:

1. Your husband going to work

2. Your husband holding your hand

3. A simple smile from a grandbaby

4. A good report from a friend about their cancer

5. An answered prayer

6. A warm home and food to eat

7. Your health

8. A free country

9. God's love and salvation

10. A friend

11. Family

12. Peace in your heart

What are the ways you have seen love.........................

John 3:16- For God so loved the world ,that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

RECIPES..................CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

Its another cold day in January here but the sun is brightly shining against the icy branches bringing a "hope" of Spring to come. When the weekend comes I like to have a dinner that is simple; yummy and ready to go for Saturday evening or for Sunday after church. Someone once asked me; " But what if you do not know who is going to be home?"............. Well, of course, you don't want to waste food but if you know at least someone-sometime will be home around dinner time, you are ready for them to eat. You don't have to stand in front of that "box" staring at the frozen veggies wondering what you will do? ha My husband likes to know there is a "dinner made" if he would be available. Then on the other hand if he decides to "go out" or he doesn't want the kitchen even messed with then you can relax and enjoy the day with him!
Here is a simple recipe that I have had for years:

CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

SERVES 6-8 PEOPLE

3-4 chicken breast cooked and shredded * sometimes I have taken partly defrosted chicken breast and popped them into a slow-cooker to cook for 3-4 hours on High and then they were ready to go. I would drain off water; cool and shred. If you want more cook more and freeze for later use.
2 cans of cream of chicken soup (lower fat) or may use organic
1/2 jar of (16 oz) salsa thick and chunky
2 packages of soft taco shells ( you choice of corn; wheat; or white flour)
shredded chedder cheese ( 2 cups or more if you family loves cheese)
sour cream (light)

1. Mix together chicken; creamed soups; salsa and spoon small amount in the bottom of 9x13 dish. Take remaining filling and and put into taco shells and place seam side down in pan.
any leftover filling I put on top of enchaladas. * I usually fill all the shells I can.
2. Top with shredded cheese
3. Bake at 35o degrees for about 20-30 mins or until warm and melted.

* Serve with a nice salad; tortilla chips and leftover salsa and sour cream

Enjoy your weekend!

HOLIDAYS.......VALENTINE CELEBRATIONS AND GIFTS

HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS AND GIFT GIVING



The Valentine holiday is soon upon us. I love the idea of celebrating and giving something special to the ones I love for this Valentine's Day. When my girls were young my husband always saw to it that they would receive a small box of heart shaped chocolates or when they got older he would drop off a small bouquet of flowers and candy at their school. It was such a fun treat to recieve these things from their daddy. He also would send his sweetheart ( me:)) a nice candy treat and flowers too! We felt very loved!!!! But......we are not perfect and sometimes this holiday comes when there is work to be done; sickness prevails; funds are low; or as "Charlie Brown" did we look and look in our mailbox and nothing comes.................

That's WHY we should always look to see how we can brighten someone else's day! If you love to "celebrate" a holiday make it a point to see what you can do to celebrate............

Here are some ideas for making OTHERS Valentine's Day special...................


1. Purchase or make some inexpensive cards to give out.

2. Plan a special breakfast of heart shaped pancakes with whipped cream and strawberries( not very healthy but fun)

3. Plan a nice dinner for the one you love or your family with candlelight and all the pretty dishes

4. Save and plan for a special time for the one you love

5. If you have children; make their day special by making heart shaped cookies; heart shaped cut out sandwhiches; set the table red and white.

6. Dont use the excuse " Well they didn't care about me". or " We don't have any money"..
Be creative and use what you have.............

7. Pick a shut-in; or someone who needs some encouragement and make their day!

8. Pray for someone that God would put His Loving Arms Around Them!

9. If your alone, do something for yourself and wear RED!

10. Write a "heartfelt" letter to someone you love.


Whatever you do; make this little holiday a "celebration" and gift of love. Then let me know what you did for someone for Valentine's Day................................


Matthew:22:37 " Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind."

PERSONAL CARE........... HAIR CARE

PERSONAL CARE...............HAIR CARE

It is surprising how important it is to me to have my hair "do right". I have a dear friend who use to say to others........... "I always pray for my husband, my health, and my hair"! I would laugh with her knowing her hair always looked so nice to me. But ..............it can be true!

I have grown my hair long; cut it shorter; permed it; blown dry it; curled it with rollers and curling irons; and worked with it for years! At this time in my life ( age 51) I have grown it down past my shoulders ( my husband really likes this) and its the easiest style I have ever had.

Why I wondered? What is the difference that I have done? One of the things I did was learn to go with what your hair naturally does. My hair is almost stick straight. *Notice I said "almost"

so I couldnt just wear it straight. But I ended up having it cut into longer layers so now a quick curling iron and a little spray takes care of it. Or I can pull it back into a neat classic pony for a casual or everyday style.

I have also changed my diet and now eat healthier and exercise which means: My hair is happier with me now! ha. Plus, I keep the "color" up better because I do it myself. This might not work for everyone but for me its easy and inexpensive. I use Revlon and get the color closest to my own color. My youngest daughter helps me with this or if she is not available I can quickly fix it. Hair style; color; or how you wear it is up to your own personal care, but I have a few tips that someone shared with me that might help you to enjoy lovely locks.............

Beauty Food for your Hair

1. Protein- eggs, meat; fish; dairy

2. Iron- dark greens and whole grains

3. Omega 3- flaxseeds; nuts

4. Silica- celery; cabbaage; steel-cut oats

5. Vitamins A, C, and E - carrots; berries; almonds; avocados

Hair Tips:

1. Keep it clean; ( as you get older try using a better shampoo/conditioner)

2. Find a style for your kind of hair that works well.

3. Find a sylist that cuts and trims well. * I spend a little more on this for a good cut.

4. Try headbands ( or not ha); pretty clips that sparkle or if you have to wear it back alot try simple items for pull-back styles.

5. If you use color and dont know much about what to do : ask an expert or someone you trust. Dont just put it on and have it turn green! (Anne of Green Gables):)

6. Remember: Next time you have a bad hair day; my mom told me: " Its what's inside that really counts!"

DECORATING FOR THE HOME......PILLOWS

DECORATING WITH PILLOWS................

How can a person do a whole blog on pillows?? ha This is my sister Phyllis's beautiful sunroom.

Uncle Jay and her decided to have this little room all enclosed last year so they could enjoy the outdoors inside all year long. What a great idea! She just sent this picture to me showing me how little things make a difference when she bought this cute green and yellow pillow!


I love pillows! Pillows can be pretty on a sofa; make someone cuddle-up to and read a book; or can make a small chair look important in a corner. Pillows can add dimension to a nice bed by stacking them in front of each other. Extra large pillows can be stored in a corner to be used by children to lie on the floor in a family room. I have seen pillows priced inexpensively to a hundred dollars. Where can you get some nice pillows for your home?

1. You can purchase clean ; classic ones at the thrift store or tag sales. * make sure they are what you really want or saving money is a waste.

2. You can find sales at Kohls; Target or Walmart; or even Old Time Pottery

3. A small pillow can add alot to a chair or small sofa *Think Spring:)

4. You can purchase material ( I have even found Ralph Lauren material at the thrift store)
and cover a pillow form. You may add a button or ribbon.

Decorating you home is Your style. It doesnt have to be a "showpiece" but always pleasant
and comfortable.

DOING FOR OTHERS....BASKETS

DOING FOR OTHERS....GIFT BASKETS



Baskets can be so enjoyable to receive! When I had to spend time in a hospital waiting for my husband to get better my friend Noel brought a large basket to our room filled with bottled waters; numerous snack packs ( healthy and not so healthy ha); juices; cheese sticks; notecards; games; and other items. We munched on these goodies for days and she would refill it so it seemed we never ran out! That was so kind of her!

Gift baskets never really go out of style and you can create them fairly simply. I prefer a "classic" basket that they may use again if they want. Here are a few ideas that I have used in giving these baskets.



1. Purchase clean; classic baskets at a thrift store ( about .60-1.00) or a dollar store. I prefer a nice handle if possible.

2. Next, buy clear wrapping paper ( dollar store $1.00) if you want to wrap the basket.

3. Next, use white tissue paper ( can you any color but white is the cheapest).

4. Buy any item you might want to give. Think of the theme ( get-well; encouragement; etc..). Then you can purchase a small book; notecards; a Christian magazine; snacks; homemade foods.......

5. Next, line the bottom of your basket with 2-3 sheets of tissue and fill basket. * If you have it you may add the pretty filler ( like curly straw) found at dollar stores.

6. Next, fit your items in ( you may add crumpled newpaper under the tissue to "lift" your items so it will look fuller and stand toward the top.

7. Next, take a large piece of "clear plastic " and pull it around the basket * make sure you have enough before you cut it ............ until it fits like a baggie around your hand. Then you can use a "trash bag" tie or tape to pull it shut. * Check top of basket and pull plastic in places to cover.

8. Last , take a nice wide ribbon if possible ( or buy one ha) and pull around the baggie to make a bow. * you may add ribbon to the sides if you want



This is Your basket to give with love..............................

ONE YEAR AGO TODAY...............

ONE YEAR AGO TODAY...........

One year ago today I was sitting in an ICU waiting room alone anticipating my dear husband's five-way bypass open heart surgery...............
In January 2007 by husband boldly stated, " This is going to be a great year, Honey, I can feel it." We owned our own print shop where our youngest daughter and married son also worked.
Those cold January days were very busy and long. My husband Dan was the hardest worker I had ever known. Our family all helped and worked alongside.
But I could tell my husband's health was failing. Shortness of breath, chest pains had come upon him, but there was no time to go to the doctor, nor was there extra money for hospital tests. I tried to get him to go, but in his mind, he was caring for his family. I then asked God, begging Him again and again.
God had been listening, and in October of 2006 He began His work in our lives. My kind husband's dad had gone to Heaven suddenly from the complications with his heart. He left behind a sugar testing kit, and Dan's sweet mother sent it home with us. Jokingly, my husband took a sugar test and saw it was high. God planted a seed in his mind to beware. God loved him and God loved me.
One night in January 2007, my husband came home chilled and shaking. He fell into bed, and I gave him some medicine. I prayed, God, he will not go to the doctor unless You tell him." I couldn't sleep and told our daughter to pray for Daddy. " He is very sick". It may sound strange,
but "something" told me not to sleep that night and to pack some items to stay at the hospital,
At 2:00 am my husband was sitting on the side of the bed unable to walk well and said, " I am ready to go to the hospital". We were havng a small snowstorm as I drove. I knew God loved me.
I was able to stay day and night with my husband. God knew that nothing else mattered. The doctors were afraid Dan might have a heart attack before the surgery plus diabetes was discovered so they moved him to ICU.
My husband was so brave and had a sense of humor through all of this. God loved us through others too, with notes; gifts ; personal comfort items and money. I never had to worry about a meal.
God loved me the night before surgery as I sat alone in the waiting room crying out to Him, then reading HIS word for comfort. I clung to Psalm 119:25. He gave me physical strength the next day-even without sleep.
As time passed and each day brought new things, I prepared for my husband to come home.
But you see; we had also moved while he was ill. We were scheduled to move at this time which thanks to some friends and family it happened. My husband didn't even know because it would have been too much for him at the time. After, coming home one evening from the hospital , I was lying on our bed and knew our worn-out mattress and bed would be so uncomfortable to him while recuperating. I felt selfish but asked God for a new bed. The next morning I laughingly told my daughter about my prayer. That very afternoon I received a call from my mother-in-law telling me she had queen bed with a new mattress if I wanted them from her spare room. God loved me!
My husband was very very weak but strong in mind. He was concerned for our business.
God used our family to work long hours at our shop. My son and his wife worked many long hours and well as our youngest daughter worked alone while her heart wanted to sit at her daddy's side. My son-in-law and daughter cared for rides; went out of town to get the bed and set it all up for us so pretty and comfortably in our bedroom.
God loved us and provided for our needs . Doctor appointments followed; and we went through sugar highs and lows, but God gave me time with Dan.
Yesterday our pastor told us that some people go through "chronic" problems such as physical health; trials; and other. But God wants to bring us through them and use them to help others.
Mrs. Marlene Evans use to teach on "time released teaching" meaning you hear something and put it in your mind and it may be used years later. That was the case when this all happened.
I just began to use all that I had been taught without even thinking. Here are some of the things that I had learned.
1. When I heard of my husband's condition all outside things stopped and my number #1 priority was him. I stayed at the hospital day and night by his side. ( this worked for me and he liked it)
2. I asked God for His strength and wisdom to make decisions.
3. I bought make-up; personal items; bath items to keep myself up at the hospital. I made sure I had on nice clothes and looked pretty for him even if I didn't feel like it. ( I know this sounds so vain but this was a teaching and I know he liked it)
4. I kept a "chubby notebook" in my purse to keep notes; verses; my mind sane!
5. If others gave me something I would thank them and write down their names.
6. Sometimes others being kind; would ask me to go out and eat but I KNEW I needed to be there in case he needed me and declined.
7. I would be kind to our nurses and stay out of their way. We had a basket filled wth candy for them to eat what they wanted. They liked that and treated us so well.
8. I would love on family and others and thank them for caring for us!
9. I hope I kept my mind off of self . I wasnt perfect but tried.
10. I asked God to help me encourage others in a waiting room I would have to set in sometimes and He did many times .

One year ago today............ I am thankful. He is stronger although suffers from a condition called RSD that has taken his strength away from his hand and part arm and has severe pain most of the time. But he does not quit! He is strong and continues working and taking care of me and our family. I am proud of him and respect him greatly.
I love you Dan!

HEAT THINGS UP ...........ON A COLD WINTER DAY

" THREE-AMIGO CHILI"

One of my husband's favorite dishes he asks for is Three-Amigo Chili! My daughter-in-law ; Jenny gave this to me last year and it became a big hit for all! We love a hot bowl of steaming chili with all the fixin's ,but I needed to have a healthier version for "heart health" for both my husband and I. This is so simple and feeds 6 . I can double items to feed more.

I have been doing recipes all week on my blog. You would think all we do is eat! I do know of at least 3 times a day this is true! Good food can be such a time of fellowship. It can bring a husband and wife together; a family round a table; or make even a single one feel warm and comfortable. Here is the recipe for this One Pot Dish:

Three-Amigo Chili

1 T olive oil

1 small onion

1 lb ground beef (lean) or ground turkey breast

1 can diced tomatoes with jalapenos

1 can (10.5 ounces) EACH chili beans; black beans ( I prefer the ones with seasoning. If you use the plain black beans Dont forget to rinse them); kidney beans ( you can use the beans you prefer or add more as we do)

1 can of low sodium (14 ounces) chicken broth

1/4 tsp each salt and cumin

1/8 tsp cinnamon

Hot sauce to taste...........

Heat oil on med=low.

Add onion and saute till soft.

Add meat and brown. ( about 5 mins)

Add tomatoes with juice, beans, broth, and spices. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and warm. (about 10-15 mins)

* You can freeze leftovers for later use)

Serve with cheese; sour cream; small green onions cut-up; whole wheat saltines

Enjoy!!