Be Encouraged

This is Soooo Going on my Wall!

2012-01-25T19:46:00.000-08:00

Ignoring the dishes is pretty much fun!

Except the afterwards is not.

Stuff dries on the dinner plate, droplets of escapees harden up on the counter, and the later it gets the tired-er you become.

Fiddley—dee! I’ll think of that later… :)

Right now, while completely acting like I have a maid doing my chores, I am scrolling through my old bookmarks.

There’s a million of them!

And now I know why I kept them—SO DANG CUTE!

Don’t believe me, eh?

Well, go HERE, and see for yourself. I am most definitely making a huge ‘L’ for my sewing room.

Oh, yeah, baby!

I can feel a craft day coming on. Hope you catch it!

X O

Such a Nice Ending... and Beginning!

2012-01-14T15:37:00.000-08:00

Happy 2012!!

December brought more surprises than what was nestled under the Christmas tree. You are looking at them in this picture!!!

1. Fabric! Darling striped, polka-dot, fabric of my dreams! Oh, how do I love thee, let me count the ways… one ~ You were a surprise to moi from someone who must love me a lot since this is my third December in a row to be blessed with you! (Whoever you are, Secret Santa, YOU ARE LOVED! Thank you!!!) two ~ You are going to turn into something warm and cuddly, a soft quilt of comforting yumminess! Ooo-la-laaaaa

2. My polka-dot “L”! RED HAPPY POLKA-DOTTED!!!!! This is really a tree ornament, but I could not hide it in some box till next December! Why, that’s twelve whole months away. I’d miss it too much! (And again, with whole-hearted thanks, whoever you are, Secret Santa #2, YOU ARE BELOVED, too! Thank you!!!)

3. You! If you are still reading my blog after I went on a loooong hiatus, then I am totally surprised. Thank you!

Pumpkins and Friends and Turkey Talk

2011-11-22T07:29:00.000-08:00

It's almost here -- the gathering of friends, family, and festivities! Got big plans???

Our plans are small this year, just a quiet gathering of the kids and a few others. It will be nice. :) {After writing this I discovered that I will not have 6, but maybe 15! YAY!}

Still, I've been having a blast looking through November's magazines with all the bountiful recipes and decorating ideas! Helping, was that I got to do this with my Bestie Shannon while we were away on our whoever-knows-what-number annual Girlfriend Getaway. What a blast we had. The two of us began Friday morning reading our Bibles, then surrounding ourselves with holiday magazines galore, choosing recipes and ooohing and aaaahing over clothing, stocking stuffers, beautiful ribbons and bows and pillows. Oh, MY!!!

As usual, Martha Martha Martha has a 2011 Thanksgiving booklet you can download for free from SiriusXM, HERE. To get it to download, you have to click on each category separately and save it to your computer. I put mine on my desktop so that it's easy to get to.

Also, Paula Deen has one, too - for free- HERE.

Big or small, quiet or boisterous, have a thankful heart!

Happy Thanksgiving, ya'all! (It's that Paula Deen! She's rubbing off on me!)

The Cutting Edge Ruler!!!

2011-11-21T10:20:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel like your brain just up and left you???!

Well, I am just positive that mine said goodbye the day after Amy's wedding, the second I woke up!

Yes, that was many months ago, so you can only imagine how it must feel!

But fiddley-ee-dee! :)

Life goes on, with or without a brain and I simply must plan a trek to the land of Oz, and soon!!!

So, here I am now, finally, and before I ever post about Thanksgiving, I must tell you that I won a fabulous prize back in October! Posting about it this late in no way diminishes the jubilant excitement I experienced when Pat Sloan emailed that I had won HER BRAND NEW CUTTING EDGE RULER -- any size my little heart desired to choose!!!!!!

Now, doesn't that reveal a ginormous giving heart??!! Thank you, Pat!!!! (And to those who chose me from their blog... thank you!!! My emails got deleted and I now have no way to remember... wah!)

This ruler is like none other -- It actually sharpens your rotary blade as you cut, whirring as you go along to remind you that you have in your arsenal-of-sewing one handy, dandy, awesome tool!!!!

You are going to want one of your very own, and lucky for you --- Santa needs a list!!!!! Just crawl upon that red-velvet lap and spill the beans! You just might be surprised to awaken on Christmas morning and finde one of your own under the sparkling-lit evergreen!!! That would be jolly! Here is where you can send your husband, I mean, Santa!... http://patsloan.typepad.com/pat_sloans_corner/sullivans-cutting-edge-ruler-shop.html ... smile, smile, smile!!!

Anyhoo, glad I didn't have to wait till Christmas!

Have fun preparing your heart for plenty of Thanksgiving and your home for holiday gatherings!

Giveaway Winners!!!

2011-10-05T09:16:00.000-07:00

In my neck of the woods, it is overcast and very cool. Almost winterish-looking, but delightfully FALL! This is why I just had to give you my Mini Pumpkin Pie-ette recipe. Yesterday, I ate this with a cup of Constant Comment tea and it was the perfect team to cheer me on for the rest of the afternoon! :)

But! Before we go any further, I must say congrats to the two winners of The Faith of Leap by Michael Frost & Alan Hirsch. THANK YOU, BAKER BOOKS!!!

... dRuM RoLL ...

BillieBee (billiemick)
&
Happy Cottage Quilter

Hoooray for you both!

Thanks for joining the fun!

Also, I won something yesterday that I am just thrilled about. I'll tell you all about it later!!!

And now...

Mini Pumpkin Pie-ette

1 mini pumpkin

1 Tbsp butter

1 1/4 tsp brown sugar (or more...)

Dashes of cinnamon & nutmeg (as much as you like)

Carefully cut off the top portion of the pumpkin - it will be your lid.
Scoop out all the seeds and pulp
Fill the hollowed pumpkin with the above ingredients
Put the pumpkin on a cookie sheet & place on the lid
Bake 350 for 45 - 60 minutes.
Add dollop or two of whipped cream, if you wish.
Happy Taste of Fall! :)

The Faith of Leap - A GIVEAWAY!!!!

2011-09-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

(Giveaway now closed. Thanks!)

Enjoying the cooler autumn mornings, my Bloggerinas?

I am! Before I even lift my head off the pillow, Superman throws open every door and lets the whole-house fan bluster its way through every nook and cranny. Fall's crispness gives me the biggest caress! Pure delight! The cozy flannel quilt I made eons ago gets pulled up to my neck and I just luxuriate in this bliss for a few minutes before the day's doings carry me away from thinking about such delightful moments. Just wonderful; one of my favorite fall things!!! :)

Another fav of mine is lollygagging in bed or on the couch, curled up with a good read. And just in case this is one of your favorite pastimes, too, I have two more books to give away!!! Yay!!!! Can you believe how generous these book companies are today?! In this time of economic chaos, it's like they are scattering Christmas gifts all year round!!! Love it!

So, Baker Books is this month's giver of good things. The title of the book I read and reviewed is The Faith of Leap by Michael Frost & Alan Hirsch. How many times does the feeling of security chain us to inaction when a bit of courageous risk is called for? I, for one, have something the Lord has asked me to do - long ago...sigh - and leaping out and doing it by faith has yet to be accomplished. There, I said it. Not proud of it, but it's just a simple fact. I'm more on the chicken side of things, than the bold lion side. What about you? Do you need some encouraging words to get you to embrace a little risk and courageous adventure in faith?

If so - or if you would like to give it away to someone who has just popped into your mind - then just leave me a comment with your blog or email address, so that I can contact you if you are one of the TWO winners!!! Yep, I have twin copies to GIVEAWAY!

The GIVEAWAY WINNERS will be announced one week from today,

Wednesday, October 5th!

P.S. Candy corn, another autumn delight, is proving too much to bear. I better toss this yummy-ness out soon or begin to look like one... and I'm not talking about the color!!! :)

Taco Cupcakes!! Can You Believe It?!!

2011-09-17T11:43:00.000-07:00

I just discovered this cute website that has recipes, like TACO CUPCAKES. Since I only found this site a minute ago, these delectable-sounding tacos have not made their way into my mouth yet, but doesn't your mouth want to go............ chomp-chomp?!!!

Perfect football watching food, I'm thinking! What do you think???

For recipe (and I 'stole' the picture from this site), go HERE, to Emilybites.com.

Still Dreamin' of the FUN!

2011-09-15T12:16:00.000-07:00

Every summer my sis and her troop rent a house right on the beach. Just climb down the stairs and your feet are oohing and ahhing under the warmth of the sand.

Every year I say I will drive over, and every year I never show up.

Till this year.

I had so dang much fun, that the afterglow has lasts all these many weeks later.

My darling grandnephew, who calls me "Wiz" (instead of Liz) was so cute in the water. As the waves would carry me onto shore, he'd run up and say either, "You are cool" or "Are you okay?"

So fun. So cute!

He wanted me to sleep in the bunk beds with him, so they secured him on one top bunk, and I took the other. It's just nice to be loved!!! :)

Anyhoo, I had eyelid surgery (not for cosmetic, but if it ends up making my eyes look younger, I shall not utter one bit of complaint :) ) yesterday, and while under the anesthesia they told me I said, "I'm at the beach!"

As you can tell, I am still happily dreaming of the complete blast I had over there.

Next year, I'll be there!!!

Happy end of summer. Enjoy the sunshine while you can!

Time to go ice my eyes for an hour... brrrrr!

Did I Ever Tell You...

2011-08-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

...about my fetish with all things Italian?

Well, I hit a new extreme the other day after skimming through Teresa Guidice's two cookbooks.

After she talked (and talked and talked) about the virtues of Italian products, explaining why (which did make total sense) these choices of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, etc. were superior to other products of the same variety, I went right out and returned my huge bottle of just-bought olive oil. Teresa was right. When I read the back of the label, sure enough, the contents of my bottle were from four different countries. I guess that makes it a Heinz-variety!

Anyhoo, World Market had quite a few products from Italy, so I read the labels, then filled up my cart. Such fun!!!

And guess what????

I love these new finds! They taste better, plain and simple!

These cookbooks are fun to read and I like all the recipes I've tried to duplicate in my kitchen.

Surely, in my bloodline, somewhere, I have a bit of Italiano in me! After all, I'm loyal, exuberant, fiesty, fun, love tomatoes and pasta and full-of-yummy-fat parmesan! Oh, and I could sit with friends for hours on end eating and having a jolly ol' time!

So, now ya know all about my Italian fetish.

Do you have a fetish or two???

You Could Have A Chance To Win! :)

2011-08-24T14:45:00.000-07:00

Fall's getting close, I'm getting giddy,

so you just might want to look at this outcome! :)

http://avonalwaysforyou.blogspot.com/2011/08/you-could-have-chance-to-win.html

Blessings to YOU!

I love autumn (well, it is too almost here lol)!!!

Something To Smile About

2011-07-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons I have to smile this summer..

Sunshine, right on my happy face
Veggie garden that is producing like a rabbit
Juicy clown-nose-colored tomatoes
Vintage bike to ride, with basket
Swimming pool to dive in after bike ride
BBQs & BBQ sauce & corn-on-cob
Friends & Bloggerinas!
Diet Squirt with a slice of a baby lime, right off my tree
So many other things.
What has made you smile this summer???

Bon Sip-Appétit!

2011-07-24T08:57:00.000-07:00

There's a 50-50 chance that you are going to love this newest, refreshing, low-cal concoction of mine!

It's so simple that your 9-month-old can make it. Okay, not really, but it doesn't take much brain power or time to whip it up.

Simply freeze some diet orange soda.
Almost freeze some milk.
Whir these two in a blender.
Pour in a frosty mug.
Insert a polka-dot straw. (I just received a box of them as a gift!)
Be refreshed! :)

Bon Sip-Appétit!

http://avonalwaysforyou.blogspot.com/2011/07/anew-skincare.html

Magazines Galore!

2011-07-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

Hello, my Bloggerinas!

If there is one thing that hangs over my head, like one of those multi-colored umbrella hats that baseball fans wear to the stadium, it's my endless surplus of magazines! (As you can see. And that's not even all of them!) How crazy is this - I didn't even put an AVON catalog in there. Oh, well. lol

There is never, ever enough time to read them all! So, does this addiction need a cure? Are you like me, and can't resist a cover that beckons you to open its pages?

Afar and Southern Living and Sunset I like because they tell me of faraway places that I can dream about. Those three I like to peruse right before bed.

In the winter, more reading gets done because I'll fill the tub with lots of hot water and bubbles, and sink down till I'm lost in the effervescent clouds, for a long soak with whichever magazine cover makes me the happiest. I like the colorful, matte finishes, like the one that adorn REAL SIMPLE magazines. Which do you like, glossy or matte?

The reason I have so many subscriptions? Lots of kids on the blocks that knock on my door for their school's fundraisers. Or a blog will announce that Amazon is offering $5 subscriptions. Reasons like that. Or, I think I will be inspired, learn to cook, find workout routines, or in-home spa treatments or cures for what ails me. lol (What ails me is not enough hours to read them all!!! And you know that no magazine is going to give you a cure for that!!!)

You know. Magazines are just fun... When there's time to chime into that fun, that is!

Until a few summer's ago, one of my besties and I would play Scrabble by my pool and that's when I would catch up on all that pile of mags. I'd drag them out there and when it isn't our turn to try and beat the other, we read all these delish magazines! (She has a pool, too, but mine is very large and we just usually end up here. She says my home is fun and homey and she likes being over here. Lots of people say that; it swells my heart with joy. Just what I prayed for when we built this house. I wanted people to feel welcome and totally comfy being themselves here.)

And so, what has been hanging over my head all summer is finally going to end, because she's back in town and asked if she can come over for fun on Thursday. HECK, YES, I SAY!!!!!! We play Scrabble with our own rules. Everyone rolls their eyes at us and refuses to play with us... Which, is just how we like it - just us two rule-breakers having fun, reading all those magazines!

So, I just answered my own question!

This addiction does not need a cure -- Just more Scrabble games!!!

What is YOUR favorite magazine?

xo

http://avonalwaysforyou.blogspot.com/2011/07/perfect-lips-for-puckering-up.html

Not Mrs. Robinson!

2011-07-15T14:33:00.000-07:00

Just a bit ago, this one line from Simon & Garfunkle's song Mrs. Robinson came to mind: Where have you gone Mrs. Robinson?

It struck me as funny, because I have been gone from this blog for too long.

It's like my brain shut down after that long and yummy year of being MOB. Not on purpose, of course. It just happened.

But... It's coming back out of the fog!

So, hello, my dear Bloggerinas! How are you? What have you been up to? I will be stopping by your blogs, a few a time, to say 'hi'. I've missed you all!!! Yes, YOU! :)

I was finally able to convince Superman to leave the last few strands of wedding twinkle lights up. When the moon comes up and the wolves start howling, I plug them in, get on my inflatable kayak, and row up and down my pool, singing, looking at the stars, and dreaming.

FUN!

http://avonalwaysforyou.blogspot.com/2011/07/free-shipping.html

Are You Seeing RED?

2011-06-29T11:01:00.000-07:00

It's the season for seeing RED!!

Sun-ripened RED tomatoes....

Ravishing RED raspberries...

Darling RED cherries (I almost typed 'cheeries' which sooo works, too!)

This past Sunday I made a batch of RED raspberry jam, using liquid pectin instead of powdered. For me, it's a much more fresh & fruity flavor, and nicer consistency, too. YUM!

Get your fresh fruit into jars

so that you can carry summer into your winter mornings!

http://avonalwaysforyou.blogspot.com/2011/06/make-your-cake-and-celebrate.html

Isn't It Fun To Create?!

2011-06-23T10:55:00.000-07:00

Since I loved the fabrics, this bag was so much to make!

One of my BFF's daughters got this one

for graduating in the Masters Program!

Hmmmm, what will be next??? :)

http://avonalwaysforyou.blogspot.com/2011/06/i-f-you-want-really-long-hair-dont-cut.html

This Thing Is From Me!

2011-06-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

You don't have to tell me what you are going through right now, but God is telling you something:

This thing is from Me! (1Kings 12:24)

No matter what it is, how it hurts, that you dislike it worse than ever, or that you want to turn your back and run away, Jehovah says:

I am in control!... of your life, world, comings and goings, AND STAYINGS!

Sometimes staying is harder than going, ever notice that?

Anyhoo, God has a plan for you. He has not forgotten you. No, He has not. It just feels like it, maybe.

Trust and doubt not.

Amen. xo

http://avonalwaysforyou.blogspot.com/2011/06/remember-these.html

2011-06-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

My zucchini plant has been handing me dark green gifts for weeks! It's one of the many things I love about the good ol' summertime! Eating them in a simple saute is great, but turning them into the best-tasting-ever muffins is even better! I'm sure I've shared this recipe in summer's past, but here it is again... and don't be fooled by the ingredients! My veggie-hating kids LOVE this, as well as every friend I know!

Grab some zucchini and let's get baking! :)

Zucchini Banana Nut Bread

Preheat oven to 350°.

Cream till light and fluffy:

1/2 cup butter

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup dark brown sugar

Add:

2 eggs

2 ripe bananas, mashed

1 cup zucchini, grated

1 tsp vanilla

Sift together, then add to mix:

2 cups flour

1/2 tsp baking soda

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

Now add:

1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

Pour into greased & floured bread pan

(or muffin tins) and bake for one hour

(muffins for @25 minutes).

You will love them!!!

http://avonalwaysforyou.blogspot.com/2011/06/germs-who-needs-them.html

King Kong and Other Big Thoughts!

2011-06-11T12:47:00.000-07:00

This week I have been thinking a lot about King Kong. No, he's not the most handsome thing around, he is too big to be able to dance around the jungle with, and I can imagine that there is no toothbrush big enough for those ginormous teeth, which would mean... no kissing the big guy.

Still, here is why I think he'd make a great catch....

His hands are huge - big enough to make any gal feel safe.
He will go all around the world to get his gal! :)
He whisks said gal to remote getaway vacations. (Hey, Bill Gates must be related, because that's what he did when he got married!)
If he can beat off airplanes with his own bare hands, then he could for sure send all my recent cravings to kingdom come...

I have rented a Fay Wray costume this week, and I've been waiting. Too bad he's smarter than he looks!

Oh, well, I'll have to beat any cravings by myself! Or will I...?

Our God is bigger than any King of Kong! He holds the world, and me... and you, in His jumbo hands. He pursues us like no other, He wants us, He loves us with His humongous, never-ending, non-changing Love, He writes love notes that last through eternity and beyond (take that, my beloved Buzz Lightyear; actually, my love is Woody. Yep.), He thoroughly cares for us... for all of it; if it's on your mind, He cares - dare to believe it! We are loved with an everlasting love, and Jesus, the Creator of the universe, traveled from the best place ever to come get us. He will whisk us away to our "quiet" eternal home (see Isaiah 33:20) with Him for all of our days and more.
King Kong, you are no match for Jehovah! Amen!!!!

xo

THE WINNERS ARE...... drum roll.......

2011-06-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

Good Morning, my delightful Bloggerinas!!

It's finally Friday! Are you as glad as I am??? :)

For me, Fridays have the same feel as the entire month of December, you know, that feeling that stardust has overtaken the dust particles that float in the air (that can only be seen when sunlight's shining in through the window).

Anyhoo, on with the Giveaway Winners ---- Congrats!!!

It is YOU... Kim

And YOU... Jean.E.Lane

Please send your addresses! :) Thanks!!

Moody Press, THANK YOU!!!

GIVEAWAY!!! Just In Time For Father's Day!

2011-06-06T14:55:00.000-07:00

CONTEST NOW OVER

Honor your father and mother" is the first command with a promise (Ephesians 6:2-3). We all know that promises from our own Heavenly Father are airtight and wonderful, so Father's Day is a good day to reap the benefits of obedience! Bless your dad!

You know who you might also want to bless? - Those first-time dad's, either recent, or soon-to-be.

Do you remember how many books we piled high by our nightstand in anticipation of our new little Baby Bumpkins? Women do this without thinking. We eagerly search out and share the latest and greatest baby helps. We wanted to know what was coming, so that we would be prepared!!! Well, what about that for the new dad, hmmm?

Men do not rush out and buy baby books, normally. Some do, of course, but on the whole, that's mostly left up to the wife. So, help a guy!!! :)

There are two ways to do this:

Win this GIVEAWAY!!!
Buy one on Amazon (or anywhere)!

Here are my thoughts on this get-the-dad-trained book: First-Time Dad is one of those books that must be read to the very end. Not only because it is packed with helpful information, sharing, and encouragement, but because it also has some chapters that, to me, might scare the courage out of any almost-first-time dad. Turning that book upside down on the nightstand would have him missing some very important truths and tips, not only for the soon- to-arrive baby, but for the careful handling of some issues his wife and marriage might undergo. So, read every page.

It was a little amazing to me how brutally honest the author, John Fuller, was, particularly in sharing some of his own fatherhood mistakes. Some of the things he shared my husband and I went through, and some of it was unique to him and his family. All of it, though, gives a healthy helping of food for thought and prayer, and it just might feed any new-dad's excitement even more!

I know this, BEING TRAINED for anything - whether for a Marathon or fatherhood - GIVES CONFIDENCE. Mr. Fuller does give first-time dad's "the stuff you really need to know". Read this book, First Time Dad: The Stuff You Really Need to Know, and the day your run of Fatherhood begins, you will be ready to keep pace!

This book would make an awesome Father's Day gift!

The publisher of this book is trustworthy Moody Press, and as always, they have been generous for my blog giveaways. At first, I was going to save my copy for my son-in-law (because I just know Amy and Tom are going to give me at least one grand-darlin' in a few years, lol), but one of you might know a future or new dad right now.

To win, simply leave me a comment stating that you know a dad who could use John's book (and, you know what? Come to think of it, some dad's might need help somewhere in the middle... They count, too!). Please, also leave me a way to get in contact with you if you are a winner. Thanks!

The giveaway begins right now, and the winner will be announced Friday, June 10th, so that I have time to mail it to you for the day of honoring Fathers.

Blessings!!!

xo

Lizzerita Pizza!

2011-06-02T14:43:00.000-07:00

PIZZA and me have been BOBs (Best Of Buddies) for a very long time. Well, ever since Gerber smooshed it and poured it into their baby-sized jars. I think it was called Pizza-ette. Did your mom feed that to you while you were sitting in your high chair, banging your miniature fork on the hard plastic tray?

Okay, maybe I made all that up. BUT... I hope they fired the creator of Gerber flavors for not thinking inside the (pizza) box!

Anyhoo, this was my lunch an hour ago. Every day I tromp out to the garden and pick those flavor-bursting leaves. If you love basil, too, it's easy to grow - in pot or plot (mine's the latter). If you snip off the tops of the stems when they begin to flower, that mighty plant will stand its ground till Father Frost turns it into a barren icicle.

So, because I went beach frolicking instead of grocery shopping, the fridge was quite forlorn. Well, except for the stuff that is soon to be treats for my trash can.

There was an almost dead white flour tortilla (do not be afraid of a white tortilla - the brown, healthier ones have more nutrients, but come on - get creative with what you have & then write your own cookbook; I want to!), and on my counter were those sweet little grape tomatoes that are fun to pop into your mouth, but were beginning to shrivel like they'd been lollygagging in a pool all day. Not good for popping, but great for sauté-ing.

Thus -- love of pizza + not many lunch options available = Lizzerita Pizza!!

Ta Da! (This takes @ 10 min to make.)

Slice the tiny red darlings in half, lenthwise.
Pour 3/4 tsp of olive oil into a hot skillet (lots of times I will use my Le Creuset dish, though it's not a skillet. That enamel/iron baby is sooo much fun, 'cuz I feel like I'm in the kitchen with Julia (of the Child family). Loved that movie Julie & Julia!!! I think it's because of being a happy, hopeless romantic, and who would ever not wanna be that? It's so dang much fun! Anyhoo, I digress (A.D.D, remember?) Back to the tomatoes and hot skillet: Let the sliced tomatoes meet up in the hot oil, and stir them until they are playmates. Season with sea salt, garlic powder (smooshed garlics are best for you), and black pepper, or whatever seasonings make your tastebuds cheerful. I like my tomatoes slightly dry (won't eat soggy pizza, love it or not) and blackened. To me, that gives them a yummy tang, like those delish sun-dried tomatoes. Turn off heat when they're done. Hey, I had to say it. Do you know how many times I've had too many things going at once and almost burned the house down?
In the meantime, in a different flat skillet, heat that tortilla so that both sides get slightly crispy, till they possess a lovely brownish hue. You'll know.
Put tortilla on cookie sheet or pizza dish (I heat mine in over first; adds more crisp).
Preheat broiler on high, keeping rack in middle.
Measure 1/4 tsp of olive oil (yes, it's plenty) and spread it it all around the tortilla with a brush; this is just for flavor. Oh, and it's good for you, too! Bonus!!! :)
Top with tomatoes.
Wash and slice very thin some basil. Spread over the tomatoes.
Take five Kalamata olives (black ones are yummy also) and dice the heck out of them. Sprinkle them over basil.
On the smallest grater holes, get your Parmesan ready (you can use mozzarella or any other cheese, but I'll always choose Parm.) Spread it evenly over the pizza.
Let it have a sauna in the oven till the cheese is bubbling with joy.
While #11 is doing its thing, grab a fancy glass and fill it with your favorite Soda and some crushed ice.
When pizza is done enough for you, or you just can't wait one more minute, pull it from the oven and slide onto your favorite plate.Slice it up, gobble away. Serves 1, unless you are a very nice and are willing to share.

My Bloggerinas...

2011-05-30T16:06:00.001-07:00

... do not forsake me as it probably seems I have you.

Superman has been on a long vacation since the wedding, and I'm going on a short one of my own... Yay!

I shall return!

You are loved! :)

Wedding Quilt Revealed! :)

2011-05-23T14:30:00.000-07:00

For months I have wanted to show you the quilt I made for my daughter.

However, you know I couldn't, or it would've spoiled the surprise because she does read my blog (great daughter, eh?... one blessed mom!)

The fabric was a surprise gift from a Secret Santa (even today I am still so thankful for that blessing of love), and when Amy saw it, she begged, "Please make me a quilt from this!!!!" So, she turned the pages of many quilt books from my sewing closet, picked the one you see, and sew I did... with love! :)

Gosh... and here I sit, once again falling into the habit of blogging over chores. Oh. Me. Oh. My! Must work and bless Superman.

Oh, and that reminds me... last week I met up with one of my beloved Bloggerinas... and when she saw my husband, she said, "OH, is that Superman?!" Hubby Dearest's chest puffed out a bit at that... Yep, husbands thrive on macho words directed at them. :)

Watch those words build up or tear down... Read Ephesians 4:29. (I could type it here from memory, but it's good to search out the treasures in God's Word.) :)

Bloggerinas --- HELLOOOOOO!!!!!

2011-05-21T15:51:00.000-07:00

Gosh, is blogging like riding a bike? I mean, will I remember how to do it?!!!!

Bloggerinas.... Life is back to after-wedding normal, but I am not! NO WAY!

You know me... I love fun. I love making happy memories. I love my sweet daughter. I loved being MOB (I know, you are probably sticking your finger in your throat right now... sorry. lol)

Anyhoo... These random thoughts are the very best I can do in this still happy fog...

Did you know that though I'd fiercely dread the very long and scary flight, my heart loooooooooongs to go to Italy. For years. And years.
So... I make SugarPieFarmhouse Hillbilly Spaghetti and listen to a crazy, silly-head CD labeled Bella Luna that I purchased at Starbucks eons ago. Love it..... But now....
...being a HUMONGOUS American Idol fan (Scotty, I love you! Tis truer than true. He's cute and humble to the core. It's luscious. ON Tuesday nights, Superman says, "Your boyfriend is up next!"... and I say "Yay" and clap like I'm 12. :) I haven't cried yet, or fainted, but the season has two more nights lol.) {Oh, one night, lolololololooooo, Superman actually said, "You don't look at me like that!" Bahahahhahahahahahhhaaaaa... "Uh, can you sing and wiggle your eyebrows?????!!!!"}
Okay, so... AI + Il Volo (did you hear them croon O Sole Mio??? Deeeeeeep heartfelt happy sigh (I am such a ROMANTIC) ..... so glad God gives voices that surely musts sound close to angels'.....) I'm in love all over again. Remember, Italy... me... and if those three will hop into my bicycle basket and sing to me as I pedal across Itay's cobblestones... Well, then I'd have been to the doorstep of heaven. (Is that sacrilegious???) {Sidenote... As I listen to the CD I immediately ordered from Amazon the second they stopped singing on American Idol, I am telling our romantic God that I take after Him, truly and wholly!}
So, if you are a romantic like me, the CD is right now selling for a very realistic price on Amazon (and, yay, they got it to me in 2 days!!!)

Pictures of Amy's Day...

2011-05-14T11:07:00.000-07:00

Smootches of joy!

Is he out there?

It's time!!!

Here comes the bride!

Super moment for Superman!

At last... my love has come along...

Well.... I had more pictures in this original post, but Blogger went 'lights-out' and didn't get them all, and I am too tired to put them back up. But... beware - lol - more pics will soon be posted!

xo

Yep...

2011-05-02T15:14:00.001-07:00

Wedding is this Saturday, and I'm still having silly fun!!!

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1667604931853

(It's okay to call me crazy!) :)

Happy memories in the making!!!

Hi!

2011-04-26T10:03:00.000-07:00

1. Hi!!!!!

2. God is faithful!!!!!!

3. Want easy exercise that's fun? While cleaning your home put on fast music and dance till you sweat.

4. Drinking water is waaaay more fun in a darling glass!!!

5. The end! :)

18 More Days....

2011-04-20T15:04:00.000-07:00

We had a major wedding dress fiasco, and have spent many tiring days in Pasadena. Onward ho... the countdown is upon us!!!! :)

Bless the Works of My Hands

2011-04-12T13:15:00.000-07:00

This is my prayer today! Much to do ... and need many blessings to accomplish it! With God, nothing is impossible!!!!!

May the favorof the Lord our God rest on us;
establish the work of our hands for us—
yes, establish the work of our hands.

Psalm 90:17

http://avonalwaysforyou.blogspot.com

Invite Someone Over!

2011-04-10T08:28:00.000-07:00

Hey, do you remember old-fashioned fellowship? The kind where you invite someone over to your very own home for a freshly made sandwich or quiche? What about simple coffee with muffins?

Most of us do not sit face-to-face anymore with our friends, we sit facing the computer screen and yak over Facebook. That's fun, too, but not the same.

The weather is so nice this time of year (depending on where you live), that it'd be a fun adventure to invite someone over and enjoy the warmth of sun and friendship!

Here comes the bride...

2011-04-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

It's getting closer!!!!! Amy and I go to her first fitting on the 18th and it will be soooo much fun! After her fitting, she has to do a job down there in Pasadena, so I will drop her and head to the happiest place on earth -- Disneyland! I love it getting my money's worth out of those passports! Amy's bridal shower is here next Saturday and i still have soooo much to do to ready the house. It's fun!!!!

I am soaking up being Mother-of-the-Bride!!!!! :)

How are you????

And The Winner Is...... (drum roll, please)

2011-04-01T08:13:00.000-07:00

Snoodles - YOU are the WINNER!!!!

Your copy of Heaven Revealed will soon be in your mailbox! (Need address.)

(I will send you an email telling, but if it goes into SPAM and you don't receive it, please email me at: golfinlizzy@gmail.com.)

You are going to be blessed by what Paul Enns says about Heaven (or, really, God, because Paul bases everything on Scripture).

Everyone who reads this book will be blessed!

Okay, here is this month's calendar page
for your frame or fridge.

Have a happy day fooling around! :)
(Click on it to make it bigger, then copy it.)

My First AVON Giveaway & Newest Blog!!! :)

2011-03-29T10:53:00.000-07:00

For You!

PLEASE TAKE A LOOK AT MY NEWEST BLOG!

~ A blog for you to see Avon’s greatest products. ~

AvonAlwaysForYou.blogspot.com

There is a giveaway:

P.S. Be sure to scroll down to yesterday's post (on this blog) for a chance to win HEAVEN REVEALED!

Heaven... I'm In Heaven...

2011-03-28T12:23:00.000-07:00

(This giveaway is now ended. Thanks!)
Heaven, ever wonder about it? I do! My mind has always been filled with thoughts of it, as it should be. It's the final trip we'll ever take, and it's one that will be without any hitches. No reservations missing when you get there because 1 Peter 1:4 says, "...kept in heaven for you" (if we are His, and it's so simple to be: just click on this LINK and you will learn all about how to become a child of God, bound for eternal bliss in heaven), and no rain to ruin the fun, and nothing to be scared of. You won't need traveler's checks in heaven!

When Superman and I are planning a trip, or I'm just dreaming about one, brochures are a fun must. They tell me everything I want to know about my upcoming destination. Well, the generous people at Moody Press sent me another book to read and write about (yay and thank you!). This book, Heaven Revealed, by Paul Enns, it's like one of those brochures! With Scripture, he gives us beautiful pictures of our eternal destination. It's all too exciting!

Also, there was one thing I'd never quite been able to settle in my braino, and that's the sting of death. 1 Corinthians 15:55 says, "O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" Well, in Paul's book is a chapter on the transition to heaven. His words make death seem like just another walk in the park, except you'll be stepping into heaven. Nothing to be scared of at all, but something to be excitedly anticipating. Death opens the door to heaven, and at the same time, closes it to the earthly life - forever and ever. Amen! :)

I love this book. Reading about heaven gives me butterflies in my stomach, like when I know I get to go to Disneyland... Ummmm... with the exception that HEAVEN IS DEFINITELY THE HAPPIEST PLACE anywhere!!!!

Anyhoo, Moody Press again sent me TWO BOOKS! One for me, one for YOU! Please leave me a comment and I will enter you in the drawing for it!!!! The winner will be announced Friday morning, April 1st... no fooling!!! :)

xo

Prince Charming?

2011-03-26T16:09:00.000-07:00

I wrote the following in a "You've Got Male" segment of a tiny newsletter I send out to a few friends. It smacked me in the face this morning, similar to how the aftershave worked in the movie Home Alone, as I was re-reading some of the past newsletters. Misery loves company, so read it and see if you get smacked, too. (Oh, and do let me know that I'm not alone!) ...

What do we really know about Prince Charming? He seems to show up in the nick of time for all of Disney’s distressed damsels, but other than that, who is this guy? In between sets, what’s that dazzling charmer up to?

I bet he wakes up in the morning with breath that makes his pearly whites shiver. Like most men, his hand probably reaches up and scratches the top of his ruffled hair, as his feet slowly move out from under the covers in search of those suede, rubber-soled slippers. After that, does he sit in the bathroom with the newspaper, waiting for things to happen, or does he mosey on into the kitchen and eat a bowl of soggy Cheerios?

In every Disney movie we only get to see him with his hair slicked down to perfection, that well-behaved wave of hair adding to his sex appeal, erectly standing in his royal garb ( which would make any man look princely; kind of how tux’s do). It all reminds me of the show we are so capable of putting on...!

Prince Charming came to mind when I read Henri Nouwen’s devotional this morning.

Listen: Forgiveness holds us together through good times and bad times, and it allows us to grow in mutual love. But what is there to forgive or to ask forgiveness for? As people who have hearts that long for perfect love, we have to forgive one another for not being able to give or receive that perfect love in our everyday lives. Our many needs constantly interfere with our desire to be there for the other unconditionally. Our love is always limited by spoken or unspoken conditions. What needs to be forgiven? We need to forgive one another for not being God!

Isn’t that great? Only God is perfect. His own love is unconditional, undeserved, unrelenting, unlimited, unending.

Husbands and wives can slick back their hair and don fancy outfits, but in the real world, hair gets mussed and ball gowns have to be taken off and washed!

So, I’m thinking that it’s best to look for those princely moments in our day-to-day lives; those moments when our husbands dazzle us with a thoughtful deed or utter a charming word that makes our hearts all ‘atwitter, or even that they get up and go to work for us each morning! And for our part, let’s practice looking the other way when his crown is quickly slipping off his egg-shaped head. (Love does cover a multitude of sins, after all.)

I don’t know what Prince Charming is like beyond the big screen, but I know what my husband is like. I want to heed Mr. Nouwen’s advice and forgive Superman for not being perfect like God. And that forgiving spirit of mine just might pave the road to that elusive ‘happily ever after’ — for both of us! The End.

P.S. I just went on Ebay and purchased this doll. My hope is that it will be a vivid reminder that even us princesses can get swollen feet, ingrown toenails, bunions, etc, making that prized glass slipper hard to slip on. Yep, even we need to be forgiven that we are not perfect like Jesus!

P.S.S or P.P. S, whichever it should be—How can we forgive when it’s really hard to? By divine power! In 2 Corinthians 10:4 we are told that “the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God.” While our carnal mind wants to pout, hold a grudge or two, etc, the power we have in Christ enables us to change that mindset - and our heart-set - and think according to God’s word.

Just thought you’d like to know how to forgive. Being married, it comes in handy pretty often!

But God demonstrated His own love in this:

while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.

Romans 5:8

Biscuits and Gravy

2011-03-22T08:06:00.000-07:00

Superman and I had a hankering the other morning. So, I fried up Jimmy Dean's favorite meat, added six tablespoons of flour, stirred it up, added 1 quart milk, lots of fresh black pepper, and stirred till it was getting thick.

Now, before I show you the next photo, keep in mind that I did not let the gravy get as thick as we normally love it -- because it tasted sooo good I was unwilling to wait! Ever done that??? Nevermind. I just can't show the picture. It looks too unappetizing, and if I put it on this blog, you might not ever return or try my recipes again.

So... moving on!

Next, and very important - the bed for the gravy = BISCUITS!

I've tried many (many!) biscuit recipes. From new cookbooks, old ones, friends' recipes, granny's recipes, school recipes, and all sorts of internet recipes. But... The very best are from plain ol' Bisquick -- and there's a trick to this, which I just discovered months ago from a friend.

The trick is this, and if you don't read all the instructions (and who does?), you might miss it --

You have to knead

the dough ten times!

Ignoring this 25-second process is craziness. Why? Because we want fluffy, inviting biscuits (especially if your gravy is not the prettiest). Are we willing to settle for flat biscuits when we can have these?...

Pretty, yes? Tasted awesome, too - with gravy OR butter and homemade strawberry jam! (Gasp! No homemade jam? Start collecting your berries now. 'Tis the season!)

Anyhoo, that was our breakfast on Saturday, and Sunday, and Monday. (Kinda like Lay's potato chips - can't just have one!!!)

Bon Apetit!

He who gathers crops in summer is a wise...

Proverbs 10:5a

Got AVON? :)

2011-03-18T17:13:00.000-07:00

www.youravon.com/egrundvig

(that's me!)

Surprises are around every corner! Finding myself actually sitting at my girlfriend's table with her Avon Unit Leader, listening to them talk, it surprised me that I signed up then and there to become an Avon representative. But I'm glad I did, because Avon is for everyone!
   Pulling from my email list, I sent a Grand Opening email to several friends and family members. My oldest son wrote back (and I adjusted the grammar for this blog, because you know how fast and careless we get to be in emails), "Is this for reals?? If it is, it is perfect!! The cologne I wear is from Avon, and both my bottles from five years ago are almost empty; I need to get refills, yo!!!!"
     Noah is a very funny guy, and I thought this was a fun response. Another surprise, because I had no clue he used Avon. I got another very sweet story in a response, but I have to ask her if it's okay to use it on this blog. So, that's for another day, perhaps. :)
    Anyhoo, Avon even has shoes; I didn't know that till I got the brochures! Did you know that? So many surprises, and there's something for everyone - even stuffed toys for little ones. Oh my!
   Not wanting to use this blog for selling Avon, I will eventually create a new one, but for now... I'd love to sell you any of Avon's wonderful products! :)

Are You Wearing Green?

2011-03-17T13:14:00.000-07:00

Since my eyes are naturally green I don't make any special effort to put on Irish-colored clothing. However, when my kids were small, you'd always find green mashed potatoes or green jello on the table. It's just fun to celebrate, and, mostly, it doesn't matter what special occasion it is! You know me -- I love fun!

Do you do anything special for St. Patrick's Day? On one of our busier streets, there's a house that is fully decked out in holiday regalia - for every single holiday, big or small! It's quite entertaining, really! I'd be/I am much to cheap and lazy for all that it requires to cover a yard and house with that much celebration. Still, I get a good laugh or smile every time I drive by.

Anyhoo, green is great, unless you are green with envy. So, let's avoid that when we can! :)

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:

he leadeth me beside the still waters.

Psalm 23:2

Sweet Talking....

2011-03-08T09:24:00.000-08:00

Every lover has felt the warm breath and heard some sweet talking in their ear. So, why not add that to my daughter's candy bar at her wedding?

That's just what I did this morning. Forget the bills. Skip the ironing. Can the dusting.

A woman's gotta do what a woman's gotta do - and for this woman, it's creating and having fun with Amy's candy table.

This is my first completed jar, but I'm having a blast working on the one that will hold the Pop Rocks. Can't wait to show you what it looks like when I'm finally finished!!!

Think sweet thoughts and that's what will pop out of your mouth and leap into the ears of those around you - a warm breath of fresh air and encouragement!

For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. ...

Matthew 12:34b

March...ing On! :)

2011-03-01T08:28:00.000-08:00

It's here --- a new month! No sense muttering about how fast time has gone, because it is always going to be like this.

So, let's frolic in sunshine (or snow, depending on where you live) and look forward to the first day of Spring!!

Here's the calendar page for March, just in case you are printing it and taping it to the fridge...

Yesterday was warm enough to do some outdoor painting, and that's what I did. The pool house is a fresher-looking butter-yellow now, and the picket fence glistens like just-bleached-teeth! It took hours and hours...and hours!... but it's one more thing to check off the get-the-yard-spruced-up-for-the-wedding list.

It's coming sooooooon!!!!

Lemons are useful for many things...

2011-02-24T16:00:00.000-08:00

Lemons are handy for so many things... Laughter, included.

Okay, see this cake? (YES, IT'S A CAKE!) lol

This was last night's dessert for our Bible study home group.

While my son and his girlfriend sat with their Subway footlongs, I stood across the counter and got busy frosting the three layers with a new lemon frosting recipe from the net. I should have known...

When that top layer caved in under the other two faulty layers (frosting was too runny to be of any use as caulking) we busted up! Immediately, my son grabbed his cellie, snapped the shot, and sent that cake into cyberspace, labeling it:

Fault Line Cake.

Then, when my BFF got off work and we were having our daily afternoon chat, I told her all about it and emailed the pic to her. Since it was for Bible study, we laughed our heads off as we tried to spiritualize it... and I am going to spare you the crazy ideas we came up with. However, my stomach hurt from laughing so hard. (Don't you love when that happens???!)

And then, the creme de la creme was when our very sweet and kind leader's wife walked in later that night and said, "Ohhhh, that's beautiful!"

BAhahahahahhaahhaaaaaaa...Laughter erupted, and I stepped back in case her growing nose knocked me over! (Some lucky folks are just born nice! I like that!)

So funny!

Everyone ate seconds, which just goes to show ya that it's what on the inside that counts! :)

Also, to save money and brighten the counter, this was my centerpiece....

So many uses for lemons! Eat one for medicinal purposes today, because they'll make you laugh, and laughter is good medicine! I think the writer of Proverbs 17:22 had a chuckle or two over them in his time! :)

Squeezing For Joy! :)

2011-02-23T12:31:00.000-08:00

Two months are going to spin by; I know because the past 10 have disappeared quicker than a blink. Amy got engaged a year ago, and we thought that time was definitely on our side. But, here we are... two months to go before she and Tom will become one.

Yesterday I went and bought two little black dresses. Fun ones! Can't wait to dance in one of them... :)

But, till then....

Lemons from our tree have been squished into submission, surrendering their precious juice for homemade lemonade for the wedding.

(Had to show you this picture from my friend's daughter's wedding, because it is soooo fabulous!)

Boxes and bags of tablecloths, toppers, napkins, candy (for the candy bar), etc, are filling up the corner of my computer room, reminding me to pray for that happy couple and their lifetime together.

Such joy!!!! :)

Giveaway Winner!

2011-02-18T11:13:00.000-08:00

Good morning, Bloggerinas!

It was tough being able to give only one book away... So.... I am also going to giveaway my copy (not new since I read it, but almost new) and send the moola for one to a gal who happens to live in my town.

The winners are: 1. JayandKristaBrubacher.... 2. faithwalkingmom.... 3. Liftupyourhearts

(Please, send me your mailing address to: golfinlizzy@gmail.com

Life sure can be hard! And sad! It's easy to wonder why God allows things, doesn't work faster, or seems to be aloof from our woes and cares, and hard to walk in faith in such times. Yet, God is our strength and fortress. He hears, He cares, He loves us, He is working all things together for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

I am praying for His nearness to be palpable for all who commented. That the God of all comfort would hold you close and encourage and refresh your hearts with His presence. He is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. His understanding is infinite. I can say like David, like I have never seen the righteous forsaken. Yep, it can feeeeeeeeel like it at times (boy, don't I know!!!), but God's word stands - "I will never leave you nor forsake you......... You are loved with an everlasting love."

Keep praying, remain in the Word, hold steady in the faith -- God is faithful! His Word is true - believe!

My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast...

Psalm 57:7

Always True -- A Giveaway For YOU!

2011-02-15T10:18:00.000-08:00

Giveaway now closed. Thanks. :)

The book that is going to be given away (see end of post for details)

No matter what love is like down here on planet Earth,

God's eternal love

- God who IS Love -

is always true.

The True Blue-est!

And ever and always He is true to His Word.

Always!!! Even when life is hard...

This is what James MacDonald's talks about in his awesome and encouraging, down-to-earth book Always True. (You'll feel like you are having a conversation with an empathetic and encouraging friend; not preachy at all.)

Mr. MacDonald, a pastor in Chicago, had to live by faith in the promises of God, relying solely on God's faithfulness to keep His Word, when the weight of a heavy trial crashed upon him. We've all been there, under a burden so crushing we wonder if it is ever going to be lifted off of us or if we are even going to survive it. That's where he and his wife found themselves...for years. (And you know how hard it is to persevere when it seems that the trial will never, ever end...)

In times like these, God's Word and His faithfulness are all we have and need. James said of that sinking time, "I needed life support. I needed God's promises."

Whether we are in our darkest hour or basking still under the sunshine, this book steers us in the right direction (God's promises), cheers us to believe those promises, trusting the Promise Keeper, and assures us that God hears and is near.

There is hope and help in the promises of God, and James MacDonald knows all about it! We will, too, after reading his book.

Please remember: God loves YOU. He cares for YOU - no matter what it may feel like!

If you are in need of a B12 shot in your trial, then please let me know in the comment box and I will send this to you (I know how desperate and at our wit's end we can get in certain trials, especially the loooooooong ones). Moody Press, whom I am writing this review for, sent me one extra copy to GIVEAWAY. Is it just for you... or do you have a friend who needs it??? Please leave me a comment and a way to contact you if you are chosen.

YOU ARE LOVED!

(Later...Your comments are so touching and I am praying for everyone commenting and for every friend they are mentioning, as well. I will choose the winner on Friday morning.) xo

Changing Seasons...

2011-02-09T11:30:00.000-08:00

It wasn't more than five days ago that I was freezing my buns off. The cushy rocker from the 50s got dragged into the living room, and I just plopped down there next to the cozy 'fire' and spent hours with Jesus.

Sometimes we just have to be still.

But yesterday... the sun was beaming its best smile on me, and I donned the headphones and helmet and rode my old 1963 Schwinn Tiger for 50 minutes. (I snapped a picture on my cell of the first tree flower of spring, but can't figure how to upload it.)

Sometimes we just have to not be still. :)

I like both! What gets you to not being still?

A Handy-Dandy Day!

2011-02-03T07:53:00.000-08:00

Bloggerinas, I forgot all about the little calendars I put together for some of my friends at Christmas, but I shall forget no more, because YOU are my friends, the reason I sit here click-clacking away at the keyboard - to encourage you, help you, and cheer you on in your day and with the Lord...

So, here is a little gift from moi to yoi!

Mine sits on my desk in a clear acrylic easel that I purchased with last year's Susan Branch calendar. Michaels has them for 2.99 (or less if you use their 40% off coupon). Some of my friends have taped them to their fridge. It's yours to do whatever you want! Just click on the picture, copy it, and then make it whatever size you want. My February calendar is @ 5.18 x 7.25.

Okay, next. Who knew that Bounce fabric softener sheets for the dryer (just in case you didn't know what Bounce was... lol) has a gazillion handy-dandy uses??? ---- Old Farmhouse Homemaker, that's who. She knew. She shared. We benefit! Yahoo.. See, I told you bloggerinas are the kindest people in the world!

Have a fun handy-dandy day! Whatever your hands find to do, do it with all your might (Ecclesiastes 9:10a).

Yahooo... February 1st!!!

2011-02-01T19:41:00.000-08:00

It's February!!! Here are some reasons I love February...

Dreary January is gone. It's a great month for cleaning and catching up, but after a month of that, I'm ready for S.U.N.S.H.I.N.E on my shoulders to make me HAPPY!
HEARTS are everywhere. And don't forget their buddies - pinks, REDS, whites, stripes, polk.a-dots... cardboard hearts filled with chocolates and truffles.
Only 164 more days till we will be swimming and bbqing and picking our veggie gardens.
Winter will be a goner for a whole year in 81 days (March 20th...Now's a good time to build your kite).
Soon the trees and flowers and shrubs will look like God has sent us a zillion bouquets - Aha!!! - For His Valentine's!!! "Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy" (Acts 14:17).
And the last reason is that it's the perfect time for me to tell you, O Bloggerina, that... You are loved! XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX

Hoooray! Block #1 done! :)

2011-01-28T16:26:00.000-08:00

From this...

To this...

Feels so good to be creative~

...doesn't it? :)

Time Scurries!

2011-01-26T13:43:00.000-08:00

I'm robbing time from chores (yay!) to write. Does it ever feel like you are doing nothing but chores, chores, and endless to-dos? All work and no fun makes us DULL. I don't know about you, but it gives me the feeling that time is scurrying by, and I never even visited with it!

Today I am stopping the scurrying!!!

This day, I choose to grab hold of some of those 1440 minutes passing me by, and using them for snippets of fun! I must! Must you, too???

So, my first little snip was writing a letter to my friend. As I began, very similar to this post, it hit me like the second hand on a clock knocking me down - in order to feel satisfied and like I have enjoyed this life, that enjoyable things must be mixed in with the un-enjoyable. It's true.

Try it today and see if you don't feel happier all day long. (Will your husband recognize you?) lol

This is what I am doing with little snips of minutes between chores....

Which will eventually look something like this....

You can get the pattern here, one block each month = FREE, 'cuz Bloggerinas are very nice and helpful and kind and generous and love for every other Bloggerina to join in their fun. (What a cute quilt you will have at the end of twelve little months, that you know are already on a good head start to zooming past us.)

And just to prove their kindness even more, look what you could actually win if this Bloggerina picks your comment for her giveaway....

Sew much fun!!! And it all just takes the dullness of life's busy work and makes it bright and cheerful!

Oh... and I just found this, like a sunken treasure in a sea of blogs...

(Just in case you are sick of chores...)

A Little Squirt!

2011-01-25T12:52:00.000-08:00

Have you ever tried diet Squirt? On a whim, I brought a six-pack home with me from the market (yes, their marketing ploy of setting them right on the end of the baking aisle worked!). It's my newest addiction!

Oh! and in case you didn't know this (I just discovered it myself), our darling quilt store owner has Tutorial Tuesday. The projects are unique and she (Suzanne) gives wonderful pictures and instructions!

I'm cooking two 18-pound turkeys this afternoon, so we can GOBBLE GOBBLE with leftovers - wish me luck!

Congrats!

2011-01-24T07:29:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to all my winners!!! It's going to be a fun day for me putting all your surprises together! Be sure to send me your addresses if you haven't done that yet. Thanks!!! Be watching your mailboxes! :)

And the Winner is........

2011-01-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

ALL OF YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The comments were soooo much fun for me to read, that I decided to give everyone something (those who left comments, that is)!

Still... what you will receive will be a surprise, because we all love surprises!!!!

Thank you for leaving such FUN comments. I'm still smiling!!! :)

PS. All you who left comments for the giveaway, send your address to me at encouragingforyou@gmail.com. I will get your surprises to you soooon! xo

400th Post Surprise!!!

2011-01-18T17:16:00.000-08:00

This contest now closed. :)

No pictures of them, but two quilts are sitting patiently in the quilter's workroom; I just dropped them off!!!! One of thOse quilts - for a soldier -- has been in my sewing room for 5 years.

C.R.A.Z.Y!!!

But not anymore!

You know how good it feels to finally get some projects almost completed!

Yaaaahoooo....

Hope your projects are skedaddling out your sewing room, too!!!! :)

But... just in case you are a glutton for punishment, as most of us quilters/sewers are... I have a SURPRISE!!!

A GIVEAWAY!!! Now, here's the lowdown on it: Not all of the patterns are new, but they are all complete. Some are brand new, never been used, and some of the rulers still have the plastic wrap on them. These items were ones that I decided I could let go into someone else's grasp. This is what happens when you feel good about getting your sewing room back in order - you want someone else to feel good, too. :)

So... surprise... I hope YOU win!!!

Here's the picture of what will be given away. The surprise will be if I decide to give all of it to one person, or two, or three, or.... Who knows??? Oh, and you know how I adore surprises. I just love, love, love them... so... I am adding one or two or three that I did not take pictures of... grin grin

If any of this needs to be in your hands, then me leave a COMMENT telling me why I should pick YOU above all others. Then, come back on Saturday afternoon, this Sat, January 22nd, and see if you won!

Easy peasy!

Hugs!

2011-01-17T10:38:00.000-08:00

My three fellas would be embarrassed if they knew I was showing my Bloggerina world these photos.

Too bad! :)

Wives & moms pray for moments like these.... awwwwww!

And this explains how men really feel about hugging, even if it is with their dad (he was saying, "Awww" as Noah and SuperDad were hugging)...

Men! :)

And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers...

Malachi 4:6a

Yummy Dish For You!

2011-01-12T08:35:00.000-08:00

You know I want only the best for you, my greatest ever Bloggerinas. So... to keep us all around and healthy for 2011, here is a recipe that is sure to get some of those must-have veggies...

It's from Take-Out Tonight! by good ol' Weight Watchers. (If only one of us had invented that gig!!!) It doesn't taste diet-y so don't worry about that. In fact, don't worry about anything, because it just doesn't change a thing... but prayer will! :)

Anyhoo, this is mighty simple for us busy Bloggerinas....(Click on it to get a bigger picture, so you can read the recipe. Or... You may find it at your local library, like I did.)

Get your brown rice (or Ramen noodles) to cooking.
Be sure to have everything all sliced and diced, because once you begin cooking it is a quick process and all sauces and veggies need to be at the ready.
If you are actually on Weight Watchers, then you'll need to add one extra point.
(Weight Watchers... don't sue me for copying this recipe... maybe they'll join your club!) :)

¹¹ Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. ¹² The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. ¹³ And there was evening, and there was morning—the third day.

* From Genesis 1 *

I've Missed YOU!!!

2011-01-11T15:33:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year??? Is it? Mine has been busy with after-Christmas-before-spring cleaning. It feels soooo good! You know the feeling! All that clutter is now visiting Salvation Army and Goodwill till its new owners come along and buy them all. And ... Jesus... God the Father sent that beloved Son for us - every last and dreadful sin, nailed to the cross, and we are now children and heirs with Him. Isn't that something to ponder in our hearts this January (and every month, every year... till eternity)?!!!

Anyhoo, I've missed my Bloggerinas and decided I simply had to postpone errands for ten minutes so I could say "HI!".

(PS... Not that I want anyone looking at my flabby arms... but... I'm working on those babies. What are you working on? - Notice I didn't say what resolution, cuz that is nothing but a pencil moving across paper. Action, Sisters, that's what we need. One thing at a time. Choose one. How are your arms???)

BE Content With Such Things As You Have :)

2011-01-09T09:55:00.000-08:00

My New Morning Schedule...

2011-01-08T12:50:00.000-08:00

HERE!

Really, you don't wanna miss this. (It will take @45 seconds.)

LOVE IT!!!

Decorations Ready For A Long Winter, Spring, Summer Nap

2010-12-31T13:45:00.000-08:00

Nighty, night, decorations.... I WANT MY SEWING ROOM BACK!!!

(This is where I placed them all as I pulled them off of shelves and counters.)

Happy New Year!!!

2010-12-29T19:35:00.000-08:00

Are you like me, and love the flipping of the calendar to a new year? I love it! It's got that flavor of first day of school, which I always totally dug... new pencils, papers, binder, lunch box... OH!! DID I SAY LUNCH BOX and just reveal that I am as old as the hills? Sigh... I did. LOL. My favorite metal one (which I have tried and tried to find on the net) was Beanie and Cecil, one where Beanie's little hand is clasping my very same lunchbox in front of his school. I used to think... "Hey, this never quits because inside Beanie's lunchbox, is another one and inside that one is... yep, another one." Ya... I think too much, even as a kid! :)

Anyhoo, how was your Christmas? Merry? A downer? Well, a new year is just around the bend and it's gonna have more of both, but let's hope more merry than downer times!

This is our little fam on Christmas morning. Though we do brush our teeth, that's about it, and my kids said, "WE can't take a fam pic looking like this!" But you know what??? It's now one of my favs.

Place your trust in the Lord, cuz off we go into 2011!!!!

I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. ~ Jeremiah 29:11a

I KNOW ~ Jeremiah 29:11 very a.

Trust Him! (And I'm talking to me, too!!!!!) Grab my hand and let's jump into this new year together! See you sooooon! xo

Soooo Good To Moi!!!!!!

2010-12-24T18:48:00.000-08:00

Merriment galore arrived on my doorstep today! What a terrific treat to come home to. I had gone out for a lovely (and bootie-kickin') bike ride... and there it was ---- Secret Santa blessed my socks off again this year (two years in a row.... i'm surprised and elated!!!! - I love surprises, dong' you?!!!!)

Whoever YOU are, my Secret Santa ----

THANK YOU, AND I BET YOU ARE SOMEONE I LOVE!!!! I KNOW THAT YOU LOVE ME.... You are sooooooo good to me!!!

and I am very, merrry, merry GRATEFUL!!!!!!! The fabric is my all-time favorite - MODA (it has the yummiest feel and colors) - and it is called Giddy, and how apropos because it is soooo totally describing me right now!!!! :) (can't wait to giddy-up and create with it! Okay, that was hokey, but enthusiasm knows no bounds).

LOOKY!!!!! I am simply filled with GLEEEEEEEEEEE!

And everyone, all my wonderful and kind Bloggerinas --- MERRY CHRISTMAS, and ho HO ho, and be sure to step under the mistletoe --- blissful things happen there!!! :)

For unto YOU, this day, is born a Savior...

Thank You, Jesus!!!!!!!!!!!

More and More Christmas Blessings....

2010-12-21T12:54:00.000-08:00

My wonderful Bloggerinas (any Bloggerinos???)- you just have to read my list of blessings this month (please)....

Still praising God our son Tim is alive after his motorcycle accident.
My sorta son (a friend of my oldest who calls me 'mom') got stabbed, three times (one in lung), and almost died, but didn't. Three days in the hospital fixed him and his collapsed lung. (I could cry over and over again with such a thankful heart for 1 & 2 & 3.)
My daughter found her wedding dress and had "that" moment of knowing it was the one. She beamed. Her matron of honor and we drove to Beverly Hills to find her gown. Oh my. She is beautiful, the dress is beautiful, and we had a blast!!! However, I prayed and prayed for just such a day for her (and us) and God was faithful, not letting her buy the "almost one". Yayayayayayya. Pray about everything! He cares!!!
This is trivial compared to things 1, 2, 3 but as I said - God cares for it all, big or small - and I prayed today for Him to help me find my favorite Christmas CDs. I told Him, "Lord, I know I bug you all day long with a myriad of things, but You are the One who knows it all and knows exactly where my CDs are. Three minutes later - they were found and popped into my CD player. He is good (yes, even in the yukky times).
For surviving the dentist this morning. I almost had two panic attacks, but that assistant knew and patted my hand and talked me through it. Little did she know I had prayed the entire time. Whew, it's over.
And last - that though it is just a few days before Christmas, I get to bake and wrap gifts today - finally - with my fav Christmas music serenading me! :)

Here is everyone's fav cookie of mine..... Enjoy and Merry Christmas wishes.

I'm In Love.......

2010-12-16T16:18:00.000-08:00

....See if you are too, after listening to this Christmas song. As I listen, my eyes close and my body begins to gently sway to the beat... all in praise and adoration of our great King of kings. This song is called How Many Kings? by Downhere. I love the lead singer's voice - awesome!!! Go to their official website for a free download and to listen to lots of their songs... HERe.

Ray Conniff Singers Christmas Album (yeah, I said it) :)

2010-12-15T18:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a lot about memories. Back in the day when I was growing up, they were especially fun. All of us cousins would run around the grandmas' and play our heads off to the likes of Dean Martin and the rest of the Rat Pak (yep, no spring chicken here- except mentally...annnnnd... I can still back dive into the pool with my young friend whom I force to "dive, dive". oh yeah baby).

Anyhoo, I have bought this Ray Conniff Christmas CD a billion times (or two) and now... EBAY here I come. I lost my entire binder with my Christmas music. That makes me so dang sad. No wonder it doesn't seem like Christmas this year. No Amy Grant, Garth Brooks, Jewel, Vince Gill, or my ultimate fav -- the Ray Conniff Singers. This is probably because it reminds me of my mom, who died from cancer in 2001. It's like a tribute to her to listen to it (and anything Doris Day). Oh, though I did buy from Target cute little Taylor Swift's short-version Christmas album. I love her! It seems to me that she often sounds a bit of key, and I find it (with her only) totally endearing!

So.... thanks to YouTube, I can listen to at least one of the songs. If you listen to this video, be sure to listen to the end, because it's a medley and the best part is at the end.... :) And thanks to moi, you can listen to it, too!!!

Oh, man... and since I have many days to make up, I must tell you about Superman!!!! He is --- FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME EVER IN MANY YEARS OF MARRIAGE --- giving me a gift each day for the last 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS!!! i KNOW!!!! --- EAT YOUR HEART OUT.

It's really quite darling, because he ~~drove~~ flew his cute little elf-self to the dollar store and chose 12 gifts for me, his not-so-new bride!!! I love it!!!! After all, it's the thought that counts, and I love all the thought it took to come up with this idea and hit the store with his busy, stressful life.

Oh, so, this wasn't on my mind till just now, but I must say... It took him 31 years of marriage. And it took me 31 years of endurance to finally get such a treat. Moral of the story ---- BE OF GOOD COURAGE AND WAIT ON THE LORD!! YES, DO WAIT ON THE LORD. (Liz version.)

Anyhoo, so, that is very fun and I am loving it!

Now, do you know what I am thankful for???? My youngest son - my baby - got hit by a car on his motorcycle and flipped up in the air like an acrobat. I spent over half the day in the hospital with him - AND HE IS A-OKAY!!! (If you are a relative or gal in my town reading this, do not utter a word to him, cuz he thinks I talk to much (can't figure that one out lol) and he is sick of having to tell the story again and again...). He went to work the next day, and thinks it was the lady's fault. I'm sooooooo thankful he is alive and well. Thank YOU, Jesus!

And then, my niece in Oregon said all the homes/apartments around her duplex have no roof, but hers is snugly glued still. Praise the Lord!!!!

So... I'm counting my blessings!

Over the River and Through the Snow...

2010-12-10T08:25:00.000-08:00

I really am going over a river today, but not through the snow... and I hope not through the fog!

My hair appointment is later this morning, and I'm pretty excited because I decided to let my darling hair gal give me bangs. She cut them once, but I was feeling too old for them, and quickly reverted back to swooping them over to one side.

But now?

I want them and do not care how old I am!!!

Isn't it a great feeling when confidence finally wins over chicken-ness?

Merry? Christmas

2010-12-08T18:58:00.000-08:00

Love and faithfulness meet together;

righteousness and peace kiss each other.

Psalm 85:10

And then? Through Jesus, the lips of God's kindness touch our lives. Amen!

We need it!

And... if you are being a little too merry and forgetting that Jesus, God incarnate, squeezed into a little baby's body.. unto you and me... so that we taste the love of God and not His deserved wrath, then join me in remembering. :)

As happens all too often - life - sometimes stuff makes us very unmerry... maybe for a minute... maybe a month... but no matter how long it is or lasts, I have one thing to say -- InHEAVENthereWILLbeNOmoreSORROW.

UN-IMAGINE-ABLE!

but yippee!

So, for you... in case the merriment is not with you today, listen to the wisdom of Andrew Murray....

It is okay to ask God "Why?"... Jesus did - read Mark 15:34. Even if God doesn't answer you immediately, He still has the answer.

Ho Ho Home!!!

2010-12-06T08:11:00.000-08:00

Today I am home ---- with absolutely NO APPOINTMENTS, funerals, decorating, shopping, cooking that has to be done or gone to. And I am soooooo merry about that! Thank You, Lord, for getting us through busy times and then leading us besides the quiet waters. You are our Shepherd, we shall not want.

It's Not Quite Christmas...

2010-11-26T13:43:00.000-08:00

... This, my Bloggerinas, is it - what goes up, must come down!

The holidays are fun, but really, aren't they a lot of work? As I made our Thanksgiving feast, I thought about how simple the fare is... yet, it requires so much planning and shopping and cooking and baking and cleaning!

But, it's worth every minute of it (most holidays). Our guests stayed a good long while, eating, laughing, and reminiscing. Don't you love it when your own two hands and one heart make it a delightful, relaxing time for others? I do. It's one of my gifts, I think.

So, now, I am listening to Clay Aiken sing carols and songs that give praise to God. I love the one song on the album that says, "When you kiss your little baby, you kiss the face of God." The song is Mary Did You Know? When Clay sings that line, I answer, "Yes, she did know. She had an angel come and pronounce it and work a miracle in her, remember?" (Read the first few chapters of Luke.)

And then, I think (and thank) that that Baby, now King of Kings and Lord of Lords, talks to us today. We are His and He is ours, and, well, it's just amazing! He is amazing!

So, joy to the world, the Lord has come, and is coming again!

Okay, I've said 'hi', and now... back to the taking down of Fall and up with Christmas. Yay!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-23T10:30:00.000-08:00

It's not the best picture in the world, but when I pulled into the grocery store parking lot, this is what I saw, and I wanted to share it with you! All those colors, as if God was doing a bit of Thanksgiving decorating of His own! Perfect colors, don't you think?

In all the bustling around I'm doing, my heart is bustling right along, offering praises and thanks to God - for the good and the bad. I've been thinking about Job this week, "Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him," he said. Right in the center of his suffering. THAT IS HARD TO DO! But it's possible. :)

And why?

Because this life is not all there is. We have an entire eternity of non-suffering. Think about that and give thanks. Even trials turn into blessings when we wait for God to unfold His plan and bring it into our sight. Till then - have FAITH, Bloggerinas.

I said all that in case this holiday is not so joyous for you. Our joy is in our Savior. If your joy has gone AWOL, then let me encourage you to read the seventh chapter of Joshua. In that sad and shocking tale is the truth that while God hates sin and has to deal with it, for us today, since Jesus was born, died on the cross and rose again, we have complete and utter forgiveness, if we believe. Oh, do!!! It's too amazing and baffling that God would send His very own beloved Son to take the punishment for our sins. Such a gift of grace. We just don't want to waste His grace by not believing.

Anyhoo, blessings to you on this Thanksgiving!

Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior.

Habbakuk 3:17-18

... this thing is from Me ...

1 Kings 12:24

Brining the Turkey

2010-11-18T09:56:00.000-08:00

It was only two years ago that I learned about brining turkeys. This process really does make for a moist, tender, tasty gobbler. So... this Williams-Sonoma video is the most concise, easy 3-minute class, ever! I've never bought brine seasonings before, but the bag I have, and let me tell you, it does help because it doesn't leak. But I've used Reynold's turkey bags before, too, and they work fine. If you search the net, like I'm going to, I bet we can find some awesome brine seasoning recipes. In past, I've only used salt and water, but this year I'm ready to be adventurous! :) Well, it's off to visit Martha....

Oh! Look what I found on the way to Martha's place....

It's not a brining recipe, but a unique way to cook a turkey. Again, adventure is the key word for this year's feast! If you've got a to-die-for family tradition or family recipe, please.... clue me in!!! (encouragingforyou@gmail.com)

Visit Elise if you want to learn her unique method, which she copied from her mom. Mom's know best!

2010-11-15T16:08:00.000-08:00

To see this bigger,

merely click on the picture and voila!
(Once you click on it and it takes you to the other page, you might have to click on that bigger pic one more time.) :)

Healthy and Delish Nachos

2010-11-13T13:18:00.000-08:00

One of my many favorite foods is NACHOS (and I always want to say, "Nacho Camacho" when I eat them.. So now it is out of my system. lol). But with the Holidays coming, we need to be a bit more careful on less-holiday-ish days with what we eat.

During the next month I hope to be able to share quite a few low-cal recipes that still are yummy-lish-ous! Are you ready? Here's the first easy-peasy one...

This is very simple and healthy!

Serves 1 (but doubling is doable!)

Here's what you do: 1.Take two corn tortillas and lightly spritz them with Pam, both sides. Cut each one into six triangles. Place on baking sheet and scoot under the broiler on LO. Broil 2 minutes on each side (yes, you have to flip them, but don't frown, it's easy). Turn off broiler and leave in another minute if they are not crispy enough for you. 2.Place tortilla chips on microwavable plate and top with: 1/4 cup kidney beans, 1 ounce skim mozzarella, 1/4 cup salsa 3.Microwave a bit till cheese melts. Or, you could place the plate in the still-heated oven for a while. You choose! :) 4.Remember that the toppings can be so many great and low-cal things. Like sliced jalapenos, a variety of beans or cheeses or chicken, diced tomatoes and green onions, etc. Use your imagination! Ole!

Yummy....

2010-11-09T17:19:00.000-08:00

I thought this verse was yummy ~ "The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe" (Proverbs 29:25).

Blessings...

2010-11-05T10:32:00.000-07:00

Count your blessings!

1.You ~ my Bloggerinas!

2.Superman & my super kids

3. trials... they lead me to God and His Word (Psalm 119:71)

4. Friendships

5. So many more things!

6. Your turn...

"But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God."

Ephesians 2:4-8

Yahoooo ~ our biggest blessing everrrrrrrr!!!

I'm Late, I'm Late.. For a Very Important Date!

2010-11-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

But I must show these to you!!!

I made this for my daughter... (out of that L'Amour fabric that I got from a Secret Santa last December (hmmmm... who could I be one to this year???), and I also turned those fabulous pinks and reds into my daughter's wedding quilt. When it's finished, I'll be showing that, too.)

Anyhoo...

For Amy ~

And for moi ~

My friend Susan, after seeing this same bag come as my prize from the fall giveaway, said, "You have this pattern! You bought it in Minnesota this summer. " ~ moral of the story ~ fabric isn't the only thing I stash!!! :)

Tons of pockets inside!

Pattern by P. S. ~ ps008 Bow Tuck Tote

Happy Hello to November...

2010-10-31T13:10:00.000-07:00

So long, October!

The tips of my toes have already crossed over into November and December. As long as possible, I held off, but you know how it is --- commercials, magazines, blogs... life - we must move forward into the bustling joy of the upcoming holidays!

This last day of October is, for me, the beginning of a new year of Le Petite Projects! (last year called Schnibbles) with Pinkpincushion and AQuiltingLife. Hop over there November 1st or 2nd and see the parade of quilts! For mine, I opted to yank some bright scraps out of my overloaded drawer and make a Happy Birthday quilt. Sew fun! It will be used as a table topper on our birthdays. Yippeee! (The binding is not finished because I have to wait for Michael's to get more ribbon in. The spool I bought is not enough to make it all the way around my quilt....)

Early Merriment

2010-10-30T11:07:00.000-07:00

I admit it - I collapsed under curiosity!

Williams-Sonoma sends me emails,

and I allow them to flood my box because looking at their fabulous pictures inspires me.

I can't usually afford their enticing products,

but I can mimic their table-setting ideas with items I already have in my home.

Those emails are tasty treats, like mini decorating magazines!

Delish to the brain!

So when their email came this morning,

I couldn't resist taking a very early peek at their CHRISTMAS selection.

My son Noah's favorite holiday song when he was a kid was the Twelve Days of Christmas, so naturally, I liked looking at these plates.

That's it.

Back to their THANKSGIVING BOOKLET that has lots of tips, recipes, and techniques for THE BIG FEAST!

I Love Pumpkins!

2010-10-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

The gals in my Bible study group tease me. They know that on my day to bring snack it will almost always be something pumpkinny -- whether it be scones, a pie, muffins, a deep-orange bundt cake, or whatever.

Do you love pumpkin, too?

Send me your favorite recipe, would you??? :)

For my birthday I got Williams-Sonoma the Pasta book that has a pumpkin ravioli recipe. On an anniversary dinner, eons ago, this dish was savored and remembered. I now have my own pasta maker (only tried it once, but am willing to try again) and will one day try again. {I need an Italian cook for a friend!}

Oh... and not all pumpkins are orange!

Or perfect... :)

{Let this encourage your little heart! We don't have to be perfect, either, to be beautiful!}

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well."

Psalm 139:14

So... if your recipe does not come out as perfectly as you wish... blame the pumpkin! :)

Celebrate and Be Happy!

2010-10-20T16:49:00.000-07:00

Snippets of Stuff

2010-10-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

What a flurry of fun last week was! During that Fall Giveaway, two surprise emails greeted me - I had won two different giveaways. Happily shocked and surprised was I, as you can imagine, with soooooo many people trying to win them also.

So, twin THANK YOUs to Winona at Cat Love and Quilt Maker and Sue Susan's Scrappy Domain!!!

I'm going to be the happiest mail-getter in the world! ~ It's just like getting a big bouquet of flowers!!! :)

October 15th - Giveaway Day!!!

2010-10-15T07:49:00.000-07:00

Oh Happy Day!

It's going to be a busy day in blogland, as we all hustle from one blog to the next, seeing if we won any of the giveaways!

Thank you to everyone who made this giveaway so fun. I wish I had a prize for every single one of you, because you are all so awesome! !!!

So, I won't keep you...

The winner of my fall giveaway is...

Kelli at
Small Town Stitcher.

Congratulations!

A Blogging We Have Gone

2010-10-13T09:19:00.000-07:00

Hasn't it been fun
(this fall giveaway extravaganza, I mean ~HERE)?

I have felt like a contented frog, leaping from one blog giveaway to the other! So many wonderful blogs have been discovered along the way.

How will I ever keep up?

24hours just isn't enough time to visit and ooogle! When would I sew? or read? or ride my bike? or golf? or cook? or go to Bible study? or HOMEMAKE?

Hmmmm???

How do you do it???

Looks Like a Party!

2010-10-11T08:45:00.000-07:00

(Hurry HERE for the fall giveaway!)

You will not want to miss this fun!!!

Superman has told me before that I can make a party out of anything. This was said one day while I was paying bills and had myself surrounded by party things... happy music, a vintage aluminum tray with polka dot bows arrayed on each handle, topped with a cold drink packed with fun ice (store bought kind) and a cool & colorful straw, a few cookies looking like confetti on a plate, and a brightly decorated napkin.

So... is it any wonder that my sewing room trashcan would look like a party was going on in it?

Wednesdays are our trash days, but I just could not empty this thing; it was too happy!

Since we have to pay bills, and there's always chores to do, why not step into the joy of it... even if we have to make our own party favors!

Even when life is throwing dirt balls, our hearts can party on in the Lord. His faithfulness is steadfast and unchanging. The party favors of praise & voicing thanks are great noise makers!

"The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save.

He will take great delight in you,

he will quiet you with his love,

he will rejoice over you with singing."

Zephaniah 3:17

Throw some partying into your day!

Be Encouraged

This is Soooo Going on my Wall!

Such a Nice Ending... and Beginning!

Pumpkins and Friends and Turkey Talk

The Cutting Edge Ruler!!!

Giveaway Winners!!!

The Faith of Leap - A GIVEAWAY!!!!

Taco Cupcakes!! Can You Believe It?!!

Still Dreamin' of the FUN!

Did I Ever Tell You...

You Could Have A Chance To Win! :)

Something To Smile About

Bon Sip-Appétit!

Magazines Galore!

Not Mrs. Robinson!

Are You Seeing RED?

Isn't It Fun To Create?!

This Thing Is From Me!

King Kong and Other Big Thoughts!

THE WINNERS ARE...... drum roll.......

GIVEAWAY!!! Just In Time For Father's Day!

More Than Ready For Summer, But Still Enjoying Spring's Flowers

Lizzerita Pizza!

My Bloggerinas...

Wedding Quilt Revealed! :)

Bloggerinas --- HELLOOOOOO!!!!!

Pictures of Amy's Day...

Yep...

Hi!

18 More Days....

Bless the Works of My Hands

Invite Someone Over!

Here comes the bride...

And The Winner Is...... (drum roll, please)

My First AVON Giveaway & Newest Blog!!! :)

Heaven... I'm In Heaven...

Prince Charming?

Biscuits and Gravy

Got AVON? :)

Are You Wearing Green?

Sweet Talking....

March...ing On! :)

Lemons are useful for many things...

Squeezing For Joy! :)

Giveaway Winner!

Always True -- A Giveaway For YOU!

Changing Seasons...

A Handy-Dandy Day!

Yahooo... February 1st!!!

Hoooray! Block #1 done! :)

Time Scurries!

A Little Squirt!

Congrats!

And the Winner is........

400th Post Surprise!!!

Hugs!

Yummy Dish For You!

I've Missed YOU!!!

BE Content With Such Things As You Have :)

My New Morning Schedule...

Decorations Ready For A Long Winter, Spring, Summer Nap

Happy New Year!!!

Soooo Good To Moi!!!!!!

More and More Christmas Blessings....

I'm In Love.......

Ray Conniff Singers Christmas Album (yeah, I said it) :)

Over the River and Through the Snow...

Merry? Christmas

Ho Ho Home!!!

It's Not Quite Christmas...

Happy Thanksgiving!

Brining the Turkey

Healthy and Delish Nachos

Yummy....

Blessings...

I'm Late, I'm Late.. For a Very Important Date!

Happy Hello to November...

Early Merriment

I Love Pumpkins!

Celebrate and Be Happy!