Eleanor Joyce

Building on Rock Bottom

2012-01-12T20:06:00.000-05:00

Photo taken at McConnell Mills State Park, by my daughter Erin www.ErinSkyePhotography.com

Recently, at Memoria Arts, I came across an engaging quote from J. K. Rowling (of Harry Potter fame.) She said this: "Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life." And she certainly became a wildly successful writer.

I loved the imagery, really I did. But even more I love the way the Spirit works. Almost immediately He brought the following verse to my mind.

"He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings." Psalm 40:2

Christ went to rock bottom for me. And He rose again. HE is The Rock, My Rock, the solid foundation on which I have built my life. And I don't know of anything better than that!

Such a cool idea--it works, too!

2012-01-10T14:36:00.000-05:00

Recently I came across this idea, and decided to try it myself. It works!

Save the white parts at the bottom of green onions (you know, that have the little white roots on them) and put them in a couple of inches of water. New green stalks will grow. How cool is that? I had three little ends left last week, so I put them in this jar of water on the window will. They've grown almost 3 inches in a week. Cool!

Prayer for the New Year

2012-01-03T08:44:00.000-05:00

photo by Erin Skye Photography

From Psalm 90: 12-17 NKJV

". . . So teach us to number our days,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom

Return, O Lord! How long?
And have compassion on Your servants.

Oh, satisfy us early with Your mercy . . .
Let Your work appear to Your servants,
And Your glory to their children.
And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us.
And establish the work of our hands for us;
Yes, establish the work of our hands."

Tidying up...

2011-12-30T23:45:00.001-05:00

Just getting things set up here for the new year. Best wishes to all for 2012!

Twelve Rules for Success

2011-06-22T22:52:00.004-04:00

From Marshall Field. I thought they were very good.
Remember:

The value of time

The success of perseverance

The pleasure of working
The dignity of simplicity

The worth of character

The power of kindness

The influence of example

The obligation of duty
The wisdom of economy
The virtue of patience
The improvement of talent
The joy of originating

Easy Breezy Summer

2011-06-20T18:48:00.007-04:00

The big old front porch is one of the things I love about this fixer-upper house. It's so versatile! Al fresco dining . . . doggie grooming station . . .

potting area . . . quiet place to curl up with a good book . . . or watch a thunderstorm . . . LOVING it!

It's a season of shifting gears. After homeschooling for 10 years, next year I'll be down to just one highschooler at home. The oldest two will be in college, and the youngest is going to a private Christian school. Yay!

Professionally it's been a time of big changes, too. I loved being Editor at Econobusters, and the monthly Digests we produce are fantastic, but it sure made for a very busy life. Since stepping down I've enjoyed having time to read, tackle projects at home, and get some organizing, cleaning, and decorating done. Writing one monthly column and one quarterly column has been a joy. Come September I'll be easing back into writing and editing, picking up some freelance work. But for now, it's summertime, and the living is easy!

Tonight's dinner? Little but luxurious sliders . . . fresh off the grill and loaded with bacon, New York Extra Sharp Cheddar, butter-fried mushrooms, crispy onions, and heirloom tomato slices. Fantastic!

Promises, promises . . .

2011-04-16T16:42:00.003-04:00

"Long stormy spring-time, wet contentious April, winter chilling the lap of very May; but at length the season of summer does come." ~ Thomas Carlyle ~

The SURE promise: ~

As long as the earth endures,

seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease (Genesis 8:22)

It seemed like a small indulgence

2011-01-26T09:12:00.005-05:00

It's no accident that a full shelf of cheerful primula are positioned right inside the door of my closest grocery store. After slogging through the slushy parking lot yesterday with sleet beading on my glasses, and cold dampness seeping into my boots, their bright, sweet faces were such a welcome sight. For a girl who loves flowers and craves color, $2.50 apiece seemed like a small indulgence. Before I knew it 3 pots were in my cart . . . impulse shopping at its finest . . . and by someone who truly knows better! Now they're on my piano. And I love them.

Then this morning I opened my online flyer from Aldi . . . and guess what. They have 4-inch primula for 99 cents each. Wouldn't that just rot your socks? I spent $4.50 more than I needed to. $4.50. And if there's one thing I love almost as much as color it's a bargain.

But with leaden skies and more snow in the forecast for today I've decided to just get over it and enjoy my flower babies. And maybe when I get to Aldi on Friday I can pick up a few more!

Stuck in my head . . .

2011-01-24T17:09:00.003-05:00

All day long I've been enjoying these words from John Newton's well-loved hymn, Amazing Grace. I think this is my favorite stanza.

The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures

Photo of these wild berries in our hedge was taken by my daughter, Erin. She is the happy new owner of a Nikon D5000 and is learning how to use it.

In the bleak midwinter...

2011-01-23T18:35:00.003-05:00

We've sure had lots of snow recently. This is my wintery view each morning as I sit in our little office/den at the back of our house with my coffee and Daily Bible. Pretty, isn't it?

On snowy days I love to tie on an apron and putter about the kitchen . . . though it is still far from organized. The other day my husband was joking that we could have our own game show. "Now who wants to guess what is behind cabinet door number 2?" He's funny that way.

Anyway, here's an easy recipe for a yummy and filling potato soup. I made it last Tuesday from ingredients I had on hand when I didn't feel like going grocery shopping during yet another snowstorm. It made plenty for our family of six, with lots of leftovers for lunches later in the week.

4 pounds of potatoes, peeled and diced
1 pound of carrots, peeled and diced
4 stalks of celery, diced
2 onions, diced
7 cups water
3 cups milk
1/2 cup butter, cut into slices
salt, pepper, garlic salt
6 slices turkey bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled.

Cook the potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions in the 7 cups of water until tender. Turn heat down to low, and add the milk and butter. Then add sea salt, fresh ground pepper, and garlic salt to taste. Simmer gently for a few more minutes to blend flavors.

Ladle into individual bowls and crumble bacon over top. I also added a very thin slice of cheddar and a sprinkling of dried chives. Yummy!

It's CRUNCH time!

2010-10-17T17:59:00.002-04:00

The movers will be here on Thursday morning to haul all our big stuff away. We're still taking load after load of boxes and other flotsam and jetsam to the storage units. Still lots of loose ends to wrap up for the buying process, switching of utilities, etc. Busy, busy, busy. But one week from today we'll be sitting in the new place, if all goes according to plan. Thank the Lord.

Multiply this by about 20 or so...

2010-10-12T14:24:00.004-04:00

and you'll have an idea of what's keeping me busy these days.

Guess how many empty boxes can fit in a van with the seats down? Actually I have no idea...I just know we keep filling them!

In case you haven't moved recently...here's a little visual reminder which will probably encourage you to stay in your own home for a while. This is today's haul of boxes, and I've been doing the rounds at grocery stores nearly every day for the past week.

And here's today's pile tossed into the foyer. Everyone has been doing a great job of steadily packing multiple boxes every day, and I make sure there's a constant supply of boxes so as not to break that momentum. Fun times! No, really, I mean it.

I'll miss the eggs

2010-10-10T15:19:00.004-04:00

Chickens are apparently a hot commodity on Craigslist. Due to the logistics of our closing and moving schedule, the chickens were presenting a problem. Since EVERYTHING these days is about streamlining and simplifying, I posted a little ad on Craigslist yesterday afternoon. FREE--five laying hens --must also take apart and remove our redneck run and coop. Within a couple of hours I had probably a dozen phone calls. One guy was supposed to be coming out and didn't show by the appointed time, so I called the first lady on the waiting list. She, her husband, and their young daughter were here within the hour with their truck and trailer.

So, bye bye chickens. Maybe we'll start a new batch in the spring. You'll understand I use the term we loosely since Jim does all the work. In the meantime . . . I really will miss the eggs!

Want to do vs. Have to do

2010-10-09T09:00:00.002-04:00

It's a perfectly beautiful fall day, and what I FEEL like doing is packing a picnic and going for a lovely country drive with any of the family who wanted to come along . . . What I WILL be doing is packing ever more boxes, taking a couple more loads to the storage unit we have rented (just a stone's throw from our new house), making 2 lasagnas for dinner tomorrow, and cleaning our church building (each family takes their turn.) Of course, "I" means "we" since everyone in the family is pitching in to "git er done." Less than 2 weeks from today we'll be in our new old home!

Can I just say that moving is a LOT of work? I've also had a boat load of medical tests done in the past few weeks, and everything has come back normal. GREAT to know! The reality of living with chronic illness is that some days are diamonds and some are duds. Yesterday was a dud, so I made time to rest. So grateful to have that flexibility!

And I'm really looking forward to a truly once-in-a-lifetime trip when the moving project is over. My parents and younger brother and I are going to Trinidad, West Indies for 10 days, leaving on November 1st. My parents lived in Trinidad for almost 40 years as missionaries. My brother and I were both born there. I haven't been back to visit for 19 years! My parents (who live in Ireland now) haven't been able to visit for a few years either, so this is big stuff! Of course, the flight was booked and plans made before I knew we'd be in the throes of moving . . . and I'm glad they were!

Now, back to my boxes . . . !

Boxes, boxes, everywhere

2010-09-29T22:06:00.002-04:00

Things have been moving right along over the past couple of weeks. We close on both properties on October 22nd. We will sign the paperwork to sell this house at 2 p.m. and then sign the purchasing paperwork on the other house at 4. So we'll be technically homeless for an hour or two in between.

All appraisals, surveys, inspections, etc. are progressing on schedule with no glitches or surprises. Today we rented 2 storage units very close to the new house. We'll be moving things in there gradually over the next 3 weeks, to make our actual moving day as stress-free as possible. And we're taking bags and boxes of things to Salvation Army, and selling stuff on Craigslist. It really feels great to be lightening the load.

It seems that fall has finally arrived in southwestern Pennsylvania . . . so refreshing to have temperatures in the 70's with cooler evenings. Woo hoo!

Progress and Pictures

2010-09-16T16:01:00.004-04:00

On Tuesday the appraiser and an inspector went through our existing home with a fine tooth comb. The inspector and the new-owner-to-be were here for 3 hours! We'll see what comes of that. We've already told the realtor that we won't be putting any money into changes or repairs to this house. It's only 6 years old, and everything works fine. Word on the street is that the inspectors try to find stuff, so that the buyers feel they're getting their money's worth out of the inspection.

This morning the girls and I went through the house we're looking to buy, while our inspector was doing his 2 hour tour of duty there. Jim had work meetings and couldn't be there. But no worries, the inspector will answer any of his questions. Anyway, as part of our offer we're asking the owners to have the carpet cleaned before we move in. Today I was remarking to the girls that the carpet (a nice, neutral, dark Berber) actually looked pretty good. One of the girls said, "Well it should, did you notice the sign on the door?" I hadn't . . . but here it is! Gotta love Pennsyltucky:)
And here's a view of the rear of the house, taken from near the back of the lot. The lot is about 115' wide by over 400' deep. Beautiful!

Then out the front there's this quirky yellow brick path to the road. So when my daughter walked out the path, check out the last brick she stepped on.

Now, how random and weird is that! My home-sweet-home for so many years!

Read It and Weep

2010-09-13T22:05:00.003-04:00

It was definitely one of THOSE days today. Oh. my. goodness. Glad it's over. And about 4:00 my son came home from school and made some very generic comment to which I totally over-reacted and went off on a rant for which I had to apologize shortly thereafter. Yup, not one of my finer moments.

Tonight both Jim and I had a planning meeting at our church, and when we got home this was on the kitchen table, from our son (though the girls had signed too.) Can you read the note? It says "to congratulate you on selling the house and to thank you for being such good parents" Now is that not sweet?!? Yes, I did get teary. And chocolates and flowers for me, and a horse magazine for Jim. What a perfectly splendid end to the day.

So tomorrow the appraiser comes at 10 a.m. and the inspector comes at 2:00 p.m. Things are happening!

Soup on Saturday

2010-09-11T21:18:00.003-04:00

Back porch basil and parsley~both overgrown and bolted

So, we finally put an offer (low) today on the big old house we've been looking at (after checking out 2 other possibilities in the last 24 hours.) We should hear back by Monday. Let me be honest here. The past couple of days I've done some second guessing . . . it seems like such a big project and so many possible issues with 2 sets of assessments, inspections, etc., all on a very tight timeline. It's a major rocking of the boat for the entire family. And I just want to lie on the couch and stop thinking about it!
`

After all the papers were signed and the realtors left I puttered around in the kitchen (my favorite way to unwind) and made creamy sweet potato soup for supper. It has leeks and garlic and onion and nutmeg and cinnamon and maple syrup in it. Very tasty.

Doing some reading this evening I came across this anecdote: Someone said to a little old African American lady from the south, "You have so much confidence in your God that if he told you to jump through a stone wall you'd probably try it." With a twinkle in her eye she replied, "If de Lawd tole me to jump through a stone wall it would be mah business to jump, and his business to make the hole." Wouldn't you love to have a spirit like that? I would!

Another day, another decision.

2010-09-09T21:00:00.004-04:00

Nice photo of some half-dead plants, huh? But this is my son's original little red wagon. He's 20 now! I usually have pots of herbs in it during the summer on the back patio. So . . . does it stay or go? I'm thinking I want to keep it, even though the inside is rusty and it looks like a piece of junk. It used to have wood slat sides, but they fell apart long ago.

I still remember taking him for a walk one spring day when he was less than a year old. One minute he was sitting, nice as can be, in the wagon with his favorite stuffed rabbit. Next minute he had decided to pull himself up on the wooden sides, and had done a face plant onto the sidewalk. I rushed home with him wailing, got ice on it right away, and he still got a huge goose egg bump on his forehead.

Back to the present. So I had another chiropractor appointment yesterday, with another lower back adjustment and an ultrasound treatment on my left foot. I wouldn't put money on it just yet, but I think I might be getting some feeling back. I can definitely feel cold and heat on the side of my foot which I couldn't before. Progress!

Got approval papers on a mortgage today, and tomorrow will put a formal offer on the big old house. We'll see how that goes. We are praying that the Lord just closes any doors that we're not supposed to walk through. Tuesday the buyer's inspector will be going through this house. Then we'll be having the big old house appraised and inspected. One step at a time . . . lots of paper work. And we're packing . . . box after box. A friend gave us dozens of good moving boxes. What a blessing! Took another load to Salvation Army today as well . . . craft supplies, stuffed animals, books . . . how did we ever accumulate SO MUCH STUFF??? Sure feels good to be getting it out the door!

Margin Makeover

2010-09-07T16:13:00.003-04:00

hammock swings from our friends in Nicaragua~pergola rescued from our neighbor's burn pile, reconstructed and restained

Can I recommend a book? It's Margin by Dr. Richard Swenson, and it pretty much sums up the reasons behind our move. Click on the link above, then scroll down to read the back cover description.

A few months ago I began praying that God would show us how to live a different life. (Did you read the excerpt I linked to?) I've had enough of overload, and am ready for big, wide, margins. I know overload is today's normal, but if there's an alternative available we want to find it, and live it.

"So..." we decided, "let's put the house on the market and see what happens." Well, how about that? We've seen what happened.

The home we're looking at is larger . . . a big old house on 1.5 level acres (a rare find in our area) a little rough around the edges (sort of like us) and our mortgage would be about 1/2 what we pay here.

A whole lot of things (like appraisals, inspections, and more) need to line up in the next few weeks . . . and maybe we won't even end up with the house we're looking at now. It's a step-at-a -time process, but I'm pretty sure we're heading the right direction!

And today we started back to school--eased into it with our Picturing America Art curriculum, World History, Literature, and box-packing 101!

Russian Sage Gone Wild

2010-09-06T09:45:00.005-04:00

I love my Russian Sage--love how it billows out over the driveway and spills over the rocks on the way up to the front door. Jim hates my Russian Sage--hates how it billows out over the driveway and spills over the rocks on the way up to the front door. So, when he thinks I won't notice the shears come out and he whacks off big chunks of these beautiful billowy stems.

(Bear with me as I photo document our lives in this house over the next few weeks!) Mom--you know you won't be at this house again--enjoy these photos!

In other old news, a year ago today we received an amazing gift. It really is the gift that keeps on giving! Working and worshipping in this beautiful building is a constant, tangible reminder of what God can do. Love it!

This year I'm too sick to work at the Labor Day fair outreach. My wonderful oldest daughter has taken my place. She worked all day yesterday and is heading back today :) Thank you, Lauren.

I'll be trying to finish a long overdue article for work. Trying to write anything has been like squeezing blood from a turnip . . . slow, painful progress with dubious results. I have loved my job, but it will be a relief to write nothing more than grocery lists in the coming months.

Take it or leave it?

2010-09-05T13:00:00.004-04:00

This guy has kept vigil in his little nook for about 5 years. Sometimes people throw a wet towel over his head, or hook a hanger with a shirt to dry on one of his letters, or even pierce a note or sign with his arrow if it's something important.

I remember the kids being embarrassed when we first put him here (clearly visible through the 2nd-storey foyer window in all his Big Lots Clearance glory) sure that everyone would know he was a displaced yard ornament.

And now it occurs to me . . . is this the kind of thing I should be taking down? I don't want to deal with the hole that will be left behind. So I think he stays.

Why?

2010-09-04T18:50:00.006-04:00

So, why in the world would we try to sell our house when everyone knows the market is dead? I like my house, I like it a lot. Sure, there are a few glitches . . .

like the fact that it's a full flight of stairs from the driveway up to the front door, or from the kitchen to the garage. But this is Pittsburgh--that's normal! Thing is, I have an auto immune form of arthritis, and carrying groceries and luggage up and down stairs hurts sometimes . . . and may become impossible.

Or, there's the driveway saga . . . three cars in a single wide driveway with the garage (too full of junk to park in) at the back of the house. So we do this car jockeying thing all the time, or try to reverse on the grass around each other. Something misfires in my brain when I try to reverse, and I end up weaving around shrubbery, retaining walls, and the mailbox, vexing my husband and children, and no doubt entertaining the neighbors. I cannot, for love or money, reverse into a parking space, and will walk for blocks in town rather than attempt parallel parking.

But those are just surface distractions, really. I just may be authentic enough to share our journey here on my blog, as we take each new step by faith, not by sight. And then I'll write about the real reasons!

Sold!

2010-09-03T15:40:00.004-04:00

...after less than 2 weeks on the market! The 3rd set of folks who walked through these doors bought our house! Good price...good buyers...no contingencies...BIG surprise for us! The realtors said to plan on at least 90 days on the market. Turns out we close and move on October 22nd, just 7 weeks from today.
And so begins the adventure! Our daughter (the one who graduates this year) said "Um, I guess the main subject for our first few weeks of school this year will be How to Pack and Move a Household." Indeed--Life Skills in real life--so much more fun and memorable than workbook learning, and decidedly more challenging!

Stay tuned as we purge and pack belongings and try to find a new home for 6 people, 2 dogs, and 5 chickens!

Chronic Illness--Defining, Confining or Refining?

2010-08-18T09:44:00.003-04:00

You've heard the saying, "It is what it is, but it can be what I make it." We've all met the people who are defined by their health issues. That's their main topic of conversation--always! I SOOO don't want to be one of those!

Like it or not, however, we can be confined by chronic illness. And it's always a struggle to know where to draw that line in the sand--how hard to push, when to concede, where to find that healthy balance. Examples: I'd love to have a large organic garden from which to feed my family and fill my freezer. But it's not physically possible for me to do that now, nor do I expect it ever will be. I've always thought a catering business would be fun and rewarding--but there are days my hands can barely open a pickle jar--so I'm guessing a catering biz isn't what the Lord has in mind for me.

Which brings up the idea of refining. I believe with all my heart that God allows and uses chronic illness to refine His children. Christian life and living is about relationships and rest and dependence on His strength, His direction and His goals. What initially looks like a roadblock, traffic jam, or cumbersome detour as I barrel ahead with my own agenda and list of things to be accomplished can in fact be a pivotal roadsign--often with big flashing lights.

And I can CHOOSE to be refined, to pull over to the shoulder, get into the passenger seat, and let Him drive while I enjoy the scenery along the way. Count it all joy!

Need help making decisions?

2010-07-29T11:15:00.005-04:00

This makes the best choice very clear.

A practical pearl of wisdom from my mother

2010-07-27T12:07:00.004-04:00

Funny, isn't it, the things that stick in your head for years and years and years? Meanwhile other things that are actually important are so hard to remember!

This gem that I first heard from Mom is loosely based on Matthew 5:45.

The rain, it raineth every day

Upon the just and unjust fella

But most upon the just because,

The unjust has the just's umbrella

Yep. And how about this one from my Grandpa?

What can go up a chimney down, but can't come down a chimney up?

Yep. An umbrella. I'm sensing a theme. It must be the weather.

Sheesh. I'm trying to write an article for work and all I can think about is umbrellas. There must be a cure for a condition like this!

Peaches and Cream Cake--Couldn't be Easier

2010-07-26T09:01:00.003-04:00

Although I enjoy cooking, baking is not my thing at all. It's too precise, I think, for my liking. So I'm always looking for quick and easy desserts. Some of my friends are such purists they'd never dream of using a cake mix. Not me! I stock up when they're on sale, and turn those $1 or less mixes into tasty desserts by just adding a few extra ingredients. This is one of those adaptations.

1 yellow cake mix (the size that makes a 9x13 or 2 layers of a round cake)
4 or 5 peaches, peeled and sliced
a small handful of sliced almonds or chopped walnuts (optional)
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup heavy cream

Mix up the cake mix per the package directions and pour into greased 9X13 pan. In a bowl, toss together the peach slices, sugar, cinnamon and nuts. Spoon this mixture evenly over the cake batter. Pour the cream evenly over top of everything. Bake at 350 for 60 to 70 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test.

Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipping cream. It's easy, cheap, and delicious...and peaches are coming into season. This is a good way to use up any peaches that are bruised or over-ripe.

Walk a mile in someone else's shoes

2010-07-22T20:48:00.003-04:00

From my daily calendar today:

Before you criticize someone you should walk a mile in their shoes . . . that way you're a mile away . . . and you have their shoes.

tee hee!

Dew on the Roses, Whack Upside the Head

2010-07-15T21:29:00.004-04:00

Aren't these lovely? I took this photo on campus at Wheaton College just over a month ago. My daughter and I were there for a Writing Conference--a very special time. I just came across the photos tonight while I was looking for something else.

They were such a sweet reminder--because, frankly, I wasn't in a very sweet mood! Here's the verse these flowers brought to mind--weird and wonderful how my mind works, I know.

From Psalm 84: Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee . . . who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well . . . (you'll just need to go read it for yourself)

You know, when I'm in a Baca (desert/place of tears) I just want to get out, and the sooner the better. I have no interest in making it a "place of springs" for other people. But, with God's provision, that's what I can do. That's what I NEED to do. I can refresh other people who find themselves in the same place. Simple isn't it? But not easy!

But here's a promise: Proverbs 11:25~He that refreshes others will himself be refreshed. How about that for payback?

*disclaimer--I'm truly not in any terrible valley--just annoyed and frustrated and discouraged by a particularly long string of petty irritations, compounded by a lack of sleep. Bring on the dewy roses!

Waking and Walking

2010-05-27T08:54:00.002-04:00

We've been walking earlier these mornings--trying the get those two miles in before things get heated up. The dew is still on the grass and it's beautiful! This morning a wild turkey flapped across the road in front of us, we spotted a deer, heard a woodpecker already at work, stepped over a little snake, and admired wild roses, perfect little daisies and laughed at the strange bullfrog noises coming from the woods. All lovely, in every way. So grateful we have such a sweet place to walk.

Little by Little

2010-05-13T22:19:00.005-04:00

This is a photo my middle daughter, Erin, took. I love that the kids upload their photos to my laptop! This reminds me of a well-loved quote I've heard for years:

"A fruitful life is not a blaze of sudden glory won, but just an adding up of days in which God's will is done." ~Anonymous

Guarding my white space

2010-05-12T07:17:00.006-04:00

This is actually my youngest daughter's photo (and feet.) But I figure that pictures uploaded to my laptop are fair game! She took this a couple of weeks ago in Grandma J's big back yard up in Michigan.

I just love the relaxation this represents--sitting on the bridge dangling her summer-bare feet in their comfy, frayed tennies, watching the swaying trees reflecting in the water and listening to the birds. No doubt there are a couple of ducks paddling about in the creek. Likely her older siblings and cousins are throwing sticks in the water, climbing trees, catching crayfish, or stirring up some other shenanigans. I'm convinced that the soul of a person needs time like this, just to breathe and grow and settle.

I'm a big fan of white space on the calendar--both for kids and adults. Not laziness, mind you, but clear, refreshing, free time. It's like pulling back the curtains and opening a window to inspiration, a breath of cool air, a sweet catalyst for fresh thought and new discoveries. And unfortunately, it's waaay to rare!

So far so good

2010-05-10T19:32:00.004-04:00

Today I made a BIG mistake. It's a long story, but I ate a huge pancake that I thought was gluten-free. It wasn't. It was 100% wheat flour.

This is the first time in 17 years that I've done something like this. I thought I'd be totally sick in a short time. But I'm not. I understand celiac disease. I know that damage is still being done internally. So far I have some dizziness and a headache, but nothing else. Hopefully that's just the way it stays! I SOOO don't want to be sick.

Mistakes happen, and I guess one celiac mistake in seventeen years is a pretty good track record!

Lookie at my Mother's Day surprise!

2010-05-08T17:21:00.013-04:00

From my dear hubby . . . even though I'm not his mother. Is this not the sweetest bike ever? He knows how much I love all things vintage (or vintage-looking) and decided this bike would be perfect for me. And it is!

Check out the whitewall tires, and those fat, creamy-white fenders. I wish you could feel the wide, squishy, comfy seat. And isn't it the most beautiful robin's egg blue?

He thought bike rides together would be something we'd enjoy and I do believe he's right! I'll be packing us a little picnic in that wicker basket very soon. Fun times!

You might be a homeschooler if . . .

2010-05-07T17:43:00.006-04:00

your math lesson is interrupted by a dog looking to share your snack. Turns out Gypsi is crazy about raspberry popsicles. Who knew?

She REALLY wants to share!

You might be a redneck if . . .

2010-05-06T22:03:00.006-04:00

You have one of these in your backyard. My husband is the resourceful type. My parents bought the kids a new trampoline for Christmas. If you look (not too closely) you'll see what happened to the frame of the old one. Yes, my friends, it has a new life as a chicken corral. The "ladies" were getting pretty noisy, so they have their own "spread" now at the back of the property, waaay back from the house where they (hopefully) won't be annoying the neighbors.

Jim set up the frame, then wrapped some chain link fencing around it. (We've had this fencing since we moved from Wisconsin 9 years ago.) Let me just tell you that the contents of our standard-issue subdivision garage are anything but standard. The black netting draped so gracefully over the top was the trampoline's safety net in its former life. Now it keeps hawks and who-knows-what-else out of the corral.

The ladies are happy. They are popping out eggs faster than we can use them. The redneck recycle is a success.

Just in case you ever wonder . . .

2010-04-14T10:06:00.001-04:00

These flowers make me happy

2010-04-10T16:56:00.006-04:00

They're so cheerful and colorful--but here's why they really make me happy: Last week one of my daughters had some medical tests done as an outpatient at the hospital. That evening her brother came home with a bouquet of flowers for her. I'm so grateful that the kids treat each other with love and kindness and consideration and respect. It makes me happy! That is what home and family should be, but I know that is not the case for everyone. We are so blessed. I never want to take it for granted.

About the photo

2010-04-09T20:07:00.002-04:00

I thought I should add a little color here. This was the view from our living room window when we lived in Wisconsin. Beautiful, isn't it?

I think it was taken just about this time of the year . . . many years ago. The fields are greening up, but there are no leaves yet on the tree. Gotta love the springtime!

Back into blogging again

2010-04-09T14:56:00.004-04:00

I've been away so long that when I tried to get back into my very own little blog I couldn't! It's taken several days of wrangling with password changes, and email address changes, and roundabout instructions from google to get access.

Spring has come to western PA, and we're loving it! I'll get some pictures up soon.

It's been great to get outside walking again. Yesterday I read a funny one-liner, "Grandpa started walking 5 miles a day at age 60. He's 97 now and we've no idea where he is!

Busted!

2009-12-30T10:54:00.004-05:00

This is SO not allowed in my family room . . . but this old dog has been trying new tricks for the past few weeks. I can't imagine what she's thinking. Several times a day I'll find her cozied up on the couch, or rummaging through the garbage, or chewing something that she knows she shouldn't.

What's up with the attitude all of a sudden? Let's see, she's 8 in people years . . . so that's 56 in dog years, and she's turning a bit gray. Is this some kind of delayed mid-life crisis? She's breaking free..."Woof...it's now or never ... take chances...chew plastic...seize the day...sleep on the people couch...live the life I've always dreamed."

I'm not sure that much concious thought happens inside this particular canine cranium. This new Cassie is a mystery to me . . . but it's been interesting to say the least.

This guy is smart!

2009-12-28T15:49:00.001-05:00

"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody."
~Bill Cosby

Indeed!

It must be Monday...

2009-12-14T09:55:00.004-05:00

Yes, I love that sweet little toothless smile and construction paper ornament. She's 12 now!

There are children playing in the cupboard (thrifted bottle brush trees and the children were a freebie find . . .

and snowmen hiding among the mugs. And for today's excitement we woke up to no water in the taps. Apparently there's a 12 inch main break somewhere in the neighborhood and our whole area is without water for at least another 6 hours. Last week it was electricity, phone, and internet. It's all good though--a big reminder for us to be more diligent in our preparedness strategies!

A warm fuzzy sort of day

2009-12-13T21:05:00.005-05:00

Is there any kid who hasn't made a popsicle stick reindeer ornament? And I'm the kind of mom who still hangs these on her tree, even though the kids are now 19, 17, 15 and 12-going-on-18!

Well, freezing rain made the roads all but impassable in the 'burgh today, with authorities asking drivers to stay off the roads unless it was absolutely necessary. Our Sunday meetings were cancelled, so I did NOT miss the first meeting in the new building after all.

Got the cowboy boot in there--a nod (or is that a kick in the pants) for the horse-lovers in the family. Feeling a bit better today--happy to report! Coughing a bit less, which is a mercy. So I made a big pot of chicken soup and two loaves of homemade bread. Yum!

And here is a bit of a nod to my Irish heritage--purchased this Claddagh in Ireland a few years ago. The musical instrument ornaments were from a co-worker back in my single days...um, that would be 22 years ago! I'd love to say that the shoes belong to my firstborn, but not so. I bought them at a wonderful second-hand shop in Ann Arbor, MI on Thanksgiving weekend, when two of my sweet sisters-in-law took me on a little outing.

2009-12-12T17:08:00.005-05:00

Well the past couple of weeks have been a bit of a blur. Here's the "top ten" in no particular order; the good, the bad and the ugly.

~Wonderful week in Michigan celebrating Thanksgiving with family

~Ten days of my son fighting kidney stones, including an all day trip to the ER ($$$)

~Above mentioned son felt better one morning and went hunting, so now I have venison in the freezer and deer head and skin in the garage. Something needs to happen with those--soon!

~First snow of the season. Ugh. I'm SO not a fan of winter

~Winds knocked out power, phone and internet for 14 hours--oil lamps and candlelight for us!

~Moving day into our new "church" building. First services there tomorrow. I won't be there.

~Been sick and coughing for a week. Hit the wall today. Doctor's on Monday. Sad face.

~Got the tree up. LOVE my fake tree :) Hoping it will generate some Christmas spirit.

~Got my Pioneer Woman cookbook. LOVE it. Will cook up a storm when I feel better.

~Realized today it's only 9 more sleeps until the days start getting longer. YEAH!

Back next week sometime . . .

2009-11-24T17:18:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Every good cook has a story

2009-11-24T00:44:00.003-05:00

So tonight I went to Amazon for this amazing deal, and ordered the Pioneer Woman's cookbook. Her blog is such a splendid place to visit, and I know I'm going to love the book. It was on my Christmas wish list, but at this price I just went ahead and bought it (and a couple more for gifts) and my hubby can wrap one up and give it to me!

Every cook has a story. I mean, every person has a story, and I really like cookbooks that are anecdotal with a bit of personality to them. Like Blue Eggs and Yellow Tomatoes (that inspired me to get back into keeping chickens) and Jan Karon's Mitford Cookbook and Kitchen Reader that are favorites on my shelf. According to reviews, the Pioneer Woman's cookbook includes lots of her wonderful photography and accounts on life 'at home on the range.' Merry Christmas to me!

Best of the Blogs (in my ever-so-humble opinion)

2009-11-21T11:54:00.003-05:00

I'm inspired and delighted by talented Christian women bloggers. You'd be amazed at how many are out there! Just when I think I must have seen them all, lo and behold, I come across another one. Of course, keeping up with them all is impossible, but I do like to pop in for visits from time to time and catch up.

Let me introduce you to one of my current favorites. Here's a wonderful Savoring an Old Fashioned Thanksgiving post by Aunt Ruthie at Sugar Pie Farmhouse. It's long . . . keep scrolling down and down and down to get to her Thanksgiving tips and her Pumpkin Pie tutorial. The photography is beautiful, and Sugar Pie Farmhouse is a fresh and cheerful place to visit. Happy reading!

Aren't these just the sweetest little faces?

2009-11-19T19:19:00.005-05:00

Our 99 cent, 100-year-old church building purchase included all the contents, so we've been going through cupboards and sorting things out. It's quite the adventure I tell you. Yesterday I even had a little lesson in how to use the commercial dishwasher. I'm SO looking forward to many happy dinners in our new-to-us building. There are not one, but two full sets of beautiful dishes--enough to feed dozens of people! And I'm thinking it's a splendid plan to teach some of the teens how to use the dishwasher.

I brought these sweet little ladies home. They are bell ornaments, about 3" tall, from National Pottery Company of Cleveland Ohio, made in Japan in 1956. Sadly, "little Miss E" was nowhere to be found. She must have met a sad fate somewhere over the years. I'll probably never know the story behind it! So the collection says NOL instead if NOEL. Oh well. I still love the sweet little faces, don't you?

Going through children's hymnals from 75 years ago, and a closet of children's costumes, and drawers filled with sheet music . . . I can't help but think of all the lives that have passed through this building over the years. There must be hundreds of them. I wonder where they are now and what they are doing. And then I wonder about the people that are still to come, and what their stories will be, and wonder who will meet the LORD in our building. And then I realize that I've been sitting with a box of ornaments in my lap for 10 minutes and I'd better stop thinking and start working again--there are lots of closets and shelves still calling my name!

Schooling In Real Life

2009-11-18T09:01:00.003-05:00

I've found that usually those who "dis" homeschooling are those who know the least about it. Scientifically conducted studies have proven repeatedly that homeschooling works. But that's not what my blog is about. I'm just going to share, from time to time, how and why homeschooling WORKS for our family. This isn't about "homeschooling apologetics," or proving ourselves to anyone, it's just glimpses into homeschooling family life, especially for those who know nothing about it.

Yesterday I shared a photo of our oldest daughter at work. A couple of months ago she noticed a help-wanted sign in Petsmart and went through the whole process of applying online for it. She got to the last page, only to find that applicants needed to be at least 18. Bummer. But a few weeks later we were picking up our dogs from the boarding kennel after being away for the weekend. The owner (a lovely woman that we've come to know well) asked if any of our daughters would be interested in working a few hours a week for her, and learning about the business. She was especially interested since they are homeschooled, and have flexible schedules. Well, how cool is that!? That "few hours" a week has turned into quite a few, and our daughter is learning everything from how to shampoo a variety of dogs, to how to properly socialize very expensive puppies, to how to custom mix healthy dog food, to how to keep accurate records and process paperwork, and interact with customers. If she decides she wants to apply again at Petsmart when she's 18, do you think she'll be well qualified and have good references?

Here's where it gets interesting. She also loves to write, and her earnings are going directly to buy her own laptop. How like real life (or at least how real life should be) --WORKING to meet a specific goal. This month she is participating in NaNoWriMo. For a gal that has a half-dozen novels started, this is an excellent way to write one through to completion. She has a goal of 40,000 words this month, and is well over half way there...right on schedule. Anyone who writes for a living will understand immediately the importance of learning to write on a deadline, and to a specific word count.

Because she is homeschooled, she CAN coast a little on the other subjects for a couple of weeks, to concentrate on NaNoWriMo and working a lot of hours while the other kennel helper is less available. And she's racking up $$ toward that laptop. What immediate, positive reinforcement. Don't worry...she IS learning Geometry and Spanish and Literature and Art and History and Biology this year...but right now, at 9 a.m. she's not sitting in a classroom. She's doing some real-life learning.

Our new favorite easy dinner solution

2009-11-17T10:03:00.006-05:00

Like most families we do our share of everyone going different directions some days. While Jim and I both work from home, and we homeschool, 2 of the kids have part-time jobs, and all have a few (very few) extra-curricular activities. (This is one of our daughters at her kennel job.)

On those busy days it really works for us to have dinner assembled in a slow cooker in the morning, so that it's ready to eat in the evening whenever we are.

Here's our new favorite.

3 frozen boneless chicken breasts

1 15-ounce jar salsa

1 15-ounce can corn

1 15-ounce can black beans

1 8-ounce brick cream cheese

Put the frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker and cover with the corn (drained) black beans (drained) and salsa. Cook on high for about 5 hours. Shred the chicken. Turn off the slow cooker and drop in the cream cheese (cut into cubes.) Let sit until cream cheese is melted. That's it. Sometimes I add a small can of green chilis with the corn and beans...just because I love that chili taste.

This can be used as a filling for tortillas, or served over rice, or just eaten like a stew with tortilla chips on the side. We usually have shredded cheddar and sour cream on the side.

It's cheap too! I buy the jar of salsa at Dollar Tree, and the canned vegetables on stock-up sales, usually for about 35 cents/can...and the chicken breasts when they are on sale.

As part of my Econobusters job, right now I'm testing and photographing some recipes for our new frugal Slow Cooker Recipes E-Book. I've discovered a couple more "keepers" so far already. Just a perk of doing my job!

About the Red Doors

2009-11-16T08:16:00.002-05:00

Since moving to PA about 8 years ago, we've been meeting with a few other families every Sunday in a rented storefront to very simply remember the Lord in the way he instructed. (1 Corinthians 11: 23-26)

And we've tried to permeate the community with God's word, by making and giving away thousands and thousands of fridge magnets, wall hangings, etc. featuring Bible verses. These are distributed at fairs, parades, etc. year round.

To make a longish story short, at our Labor Day outreach this year we were approached by a woman about a very special gift. We have been given (well, actually we purchased for the princely sum of 99 cents) a beautiful, red brick church building, right in the heart of downtown. It is simply lovely, on the National Historic Register, but impeccably maintained and updated, with a gorgeous new addition added about 15 years ago. It's not huge by any stretch, but a great deal larger than the little space we've been using. With all the legal steps completed, we're working on moving in now.

I was just reading this verse this very morning, and it sure fits here: The Lord has done great things for us and we are glad. (Psalm 126:3)

Another Blogging Start

2009-11-15T19:11:00.007-05:00

Hi Mum!

You see, my mum reads my blog. And she lives in Ireland. And I live in Pennsylvania. And she doesn't like these long stretches of no updates. So, I'm going to try to blog more frequently. Now I've gone and put that out there, and if I don't follow through the whole, big, world-wide-web-world will know that I'm lacking in the necessary self discipline.

I'm blessed to have a job that involves writing--a lot of writing. I work for Econobusters. And not only do I get paid to write, but I get to write about what I love--cooking, decorating, saving money, family life . . . good stuff like that. AND I get to do it all from home . . . a warm, comfy, friendly home that I share with my very patient husband, 4 teens, and 2 dogs, with 5 chickens in the backyard laying beautiful brown eggs. Life is good. Messy at times, but good.

For the past couple of weeks I've been thinking about the phrase, "Soli Deo Gloria" meaning Glory to God alone. As per 1 Corinthians 10:31, whether I eat or drink, or whatever I do, I'm to do it all to the glory of God. It's so timely for me as we're working through some changes right now in our community. I'd like to make a way to display "Soli Deo Gloria" in a place where I'll see it multiple times a day! It's NOT about my agenda, or my ideas. It's ALL for God's glory. And that's a staggering privilege and a sobering responsibility.

And what's with the doors at the top? Tomorrow I'll blog about that!

Nothing But Blue Skies . . .

2009-09-23T22:07:00.003-04:00

Is there anything as lovely as a cool September morning? Life is good!

October's Digest is complete, and on sale now. Check it out here.

November's manuscript has gone to editing and layout, and we're making good progress on December's issue.

So, I'm celebrating with a long-weekend-mini-vacation with a good friend up in Canada. She's been my buddy since grade-school days--a true kindred spirit, lots of fun with a wonderful sense of humor. I'm REALLY looking forward to the change of pace . . . cups of tea and poking around quaint little shops, maybe even knitting in the evenings . . . who knows? Boy does that make me sound OLD!

Back at ya Monday!

Backyard Blessings

2009-09-22T23:46:00.004-04:00

Hundreds of morning glories this summer from one 79 cent package of seeds.

Can you spot the spider webs on the thrift-store birdhouse?

And . . . the long awaited first egg! Two out of the five chickens are laying now. We THINK Lucy and Genevieve are the producers. They're certainly making the most noise, anyway!

We're slowly but surely finding our rhythm of homeschooling, homeworking, and homekeeping as the summer turns into fall. I might even find time to blog again!

Someday...

2009-08-26T23:44:00.002-04:00

Someday I'll blog again . . . and read all the wonderful blogs that I "follow" . . . but it won't be for a little while. We've had such a busy summer! Lots of good things (like a wonderful trip to Ireland) and some not so good. And all the while, time marches on.

Next week I change gears and start getting ready for our (home)school to start up. This year the girls are in 7th, 9th and 11th grade. Wowser! I truly love homeschooling. Of all the things I try to do and accomplish, homeschooling is the one thing that I wouldn't want to let go. In 5 years I'll be done! And I'll be good and ready and glad to enter that phase too.

Anyway, I'll be back when things slow down a bit. Meanwhile I'm working on time management, just trying to bring some order to the days and weeks, and make it all flow. No small task!

Buy me a coffee??

2009-07-30T23:35:00.002-04:00

You all know I LOVE my jobs . . . all my jobs . . . wife, mom, homemaker, and editor of Molly's Money-Saving Digest.

August's Digest just released and it is selling like the proverbial hotcakes. (Do you ever wonder WHERE that saying came from?) I have no idea.

There's a great contest promoting it. Check it out here. You can be entered in a drawing to WIN all 8 issues of the Digest, AND the E-Book Molly Makes $5 Dinners and $3 Desserts.

So, where does the coffee come in? Well, we have a good-natured challenge going on. If we sell a certain ambitious number of August Digests someone is going to buy me a caramel frappe . . . or actually, quite a few of them.

If you need some help organizing, and want to help me get my cuppa joe, see what August's Digest can do for you . . . and for me!

Megan's idea of a perfect afternoon...

2009-07-24T19:49:00.002-04:00

Catching up on Reading

2009-07-23T17:19:00.003-04:00

Sometimes a forced rest is good--I've been able to curl up today with a heating pad and read through magazines that have been piling up.

I just finished TEACH magazine's Summer Issue and decided to post a little bit about it here. TEACH is an acronym for To Encourage and Challenge Homemakers, and each time I read an issue I find it does exactly that!

The theme of this issue was PURITY. Yes, it did cover modesty, and as a mom of 4 teenagers (well 3 teens and 1 almost teen) that's a big subject around here. But the magazine goes far beyond that one subject. I especially enjoyed an article by Marilyn Boyer about the key to purity; the internalizing of scripture. "Thy word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee." Psalm 119:11. That's really where it begins, isn't it?

I found some much needed help in an article by Cindy Rushton on realistic scheduling, and was really blessed by an article by Lorrie Flem about broken hearts. I found this paragraph moving, almost poetic, and yet challenging too. "Let the wail of an ambulance, police car or firetruck call you to prayer. Let the displays of immodesty on billboards and in stores remind you to pray for protection for those struggling with sin. Let the cry of a child call you to pray for parents around the world. Let the hurts of the world pierce your heart for the needs of others." It's a sad and broken world we live in, and I appreciate Mrs. Flem's challenge to use these triggers that we are confronted with daily as reminders to pray.

TEACH is a practical magazine -- clearly bringing theology and Christian living into the very center of the ordinary lives that most of us lead. Once again To Encourage And Challenge Homemakers has encouraged and challenged me!

We were stopped at a red light . . .

2009-07-05T21:41:00.003-04:00

while out on a drive the other day. My daughter noticed these words on the back of a building, and snapped a picture. Awesome reminder of an incredible truth. He's still saving.

He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my foot upon a rock, and established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God. Psalm 40:2

A Horse and her Girl

2009-06-29T21:27:00.004-04:00

Just around Christmas time our family was given a horse . . . a beautiful little white Arabian named Hope. Our youngest daughter, especially, just LOVES this horse, and it has been so good for her to learn all the work and care and time that goes into owning a horse. Her goal is to be a horse trainer or clinician. I guess time will tell.

I love the name Hope. I love the word Hope, and collect quotes and verses about hope as I come across them. Here's a quote that's currently on my computer desktop (free download from http://www.crosscards.com/) Hope is patience with the lamp lit . (Tertullian)

Don't you love the sense of expectation that sentence carries? Is there something you are hoping for? Keep praying . . . and keep the lamp lit!

What some people do for money

2009-06-22T13:29:00.003-04:00

My girls walk dogs.

It's all fun and games on a sunny day in June . . . freezing in February, not so much!

LOOK at this little guy. I could just keep him (but not for long, heheheh!)

Only Your Mom Reads Your Blog...

2009-06-19T21:53:00.007-04:00

I saw that on a Tshirt the other day, and I thought it was pretty funny. I wonder who gets paid to sit around and think of snide comments to put on shirts.

Anyway, my Mom DOES read my blog, and I'm glad she does. You see, my Mom and Dad live in Ireland. They haven't been to my house in a couple of years. So, this way they can see what's happening in my little world from time to time.

So, Mom . . . these are the yellow Stella D'oro daylilies and some blue perennials (I forget what they are called) that grow in big clumps around the mailbox.

And these are the red, white and blue patriotic flower pots on the front steps.

And just this week Jim stuck an old birdhouse I bought at a junk shop for a couple of dollars a few years ago onto a tree that we recently cut down because it was growing funny looking knobby things filled with worms all over it. Yuck. Yesterday a bird family moved in. They've been busily moving all sorts of stuff inside to build a nest. I can sit at my desk when I'm supposed to be working and watch them out the window. We're all quite interested in watching their progress!

And these are the chickens. In 10 weeks those cute babies have grown into some gangly, hungry fowl. Hope they start laying lovely brown and blue eggs soon. (Two of them are Araucanas who lay colored eggs.) Today, when I bought a new bag of feed I graduated them from growing crumb to layer mash. The portable coop is working out well.

And it's oh so nice to have a son who can drive and go pick up stuff like toilet paper when we're down to the last roll in the house. He's a good sport!

And the girls have been practicing their volleyball skills heading into picnic season. So there you have it, Friday afternoon round-up at the Joyce household . . . because my Mom reads my blog!

True Story

2009-06-18T10:10:00.005-04:00

I've wanted a footed cake stand for a long time. I'm really NOT a shopper, but yesterday I went along to an outlet mall with a friend for a girls' day out. At the Gourmet Chef store I spotted this cake stand that I thought would go oh so nicely with our Fiesta dishes. So after an appropriate amount of oohing and aahing and "Oh, I shouldn'ts" I bought it (since it was 50% off.) A few hours later, same mall, different store, I saw a matching chip and dip bowl. Now WHAT are the chances of that?! So, after a little more oohing and aahing, and since this was also 50% off, I decided to just go hog wild and buy it too! Isn't it cute?

When I FINALLY got home (it was a marathon day) I pulled out my purchases to show the family. Hmm. I set the chip/dip tray upside down on the counter cuz that's the way it came out of the box, and guess what I discovered? Heh heh. Upside down it was EXACTLY the same as the footed cake stand. Whaddya know? THEN I noticed this sticker.

Yes, I bought two of the exact same thing, since they matched so nicely!

I thought it was just SOOO funny. My husband just shook his head and said "And you weren't even wearing your blond wig." I was telling some people about it after Bible Study last night, and one guy said "Umm, that might not be a story you want to tell everyone." But I think it's hilarious. And, yes, I'm going to keep them BOTH.

Yard Sale Report!

2009-06-15T07:38:00.006-04:00

Since it's Monday again (how the weeks fly by!) it's time for a weekend wonder report. By far my greatest yard saling this weekend was in reverse. Huh? Well, I helped a neighbor with her yard sale and ended up selling a lot of my own stuff that I no longer used or liked. Can I tell you how great it felt to get this stuff out of the house, and off to happy new homes, while making a little extra $$ at the same time!

I did get a couple of little things, for a total of $2.75. Since my neighbor bought me a big Wendy's salad for lunch ($4.99) I guess these little treasures were free. Anyhow - I loved this little picture (It's about 18" long) and it's inspired me to do our master bath in a modified beachy theme, incorporating those sweet nantucket style baskets I picked up a couple of weeks ago. This should come together pretty easily. I already have some old bottles and shells. Hmmm.

I have a big old primitive cabinet in the front foyer, housing my collection of white/cream stuff. The three little bottle brush trees below were 25 cents each, and will be perfect to use in this cabinet at Christmas time. Since I was too lazy to go dig out the Christmas decoration boxes, the said trees are now upside down inside the bigger jugs. Hopefully I don't forget about them in November!

Aren't they lovely?

Check out more treasures at Econobusters--and feel free to add your own finds to Mr. Linky over there!

His Eye Is On the Sparrow . . .

2009-06-13T22:40:00.003-04:00

I love these little thrifted birds on my kitchen window sill, and since my dishwasher has been on the fritz, I've spent a fair bit of time standing at the sink, up to the elbows in soapy water, admiring my birdie friends. They remind me that "His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me!"

Here are the lyrics , written in 1905 by Civilla D. Martin, based on the words of Matthew 10: 29-31. (It's worth clicking over for a read!)

(The itty bitty strawberries are from our backyard patch. We get about a whopping handful a day.)

I think I might make a tag or ribbon with the words "His eye is on the sparrow" and put it by my birdies. If I come up with a genius idea I'll post it here.

"Let not your heart be troubled," His tender word I hear,
And resting on His goodness, I lose my doubts and fears.
Though by the path He leadeth, but one step I may see
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.

(And you, too!)

It's here! It's here!

2009-06-12T10:35:00.007-04:00

". . . beauty is important in this fragile life," says writer Jan Karon. I SO agree with her! I've been watching my mailbox for a few weeks for this; the summer edition of Life:Beautiful magazine.
I posted this cover shot so you know EXACTLY what you are looking for when you go shopping! Even better, visit their website (http://www.lifebeautifulmagazine.com/) and subscribe. One year (4 issues) is $18.95 U.S.

So, why do I LOVE Life:Beautiful? It combines stunningly gorgeous photography and real-life useful articles with dozens of scripture verses and godly principles, in a delightfully gracious way. It is primo quality. I'm not exaggerating. You will not find a more professionally produced magazine anywhere. Really. The paper, print, layout, content, everything, is world class. Every issue is 100% impressive. You know we're supposed to think about whatever is pure, excellent, praiseworthy . . . ? This is praiseworthy--so I'm praising it.

Recipes, decorating ideas, crafts, organizing, travel, parenting, book and media suggestions . . . it's all here, and all so refreshingly presented within the framework of this quote from Editor-in-Chief, Wanda Ventling, "At Life:Beautiful we believe God is part of every minute of every day and that through simple daily tasks, such as cooking, serving others, raising children--and most importantly, coming to a full understanding of God's love for us--we can all live beautiful lives."

I'm not affiliated with Life:Beautiful in any way--I just want every woman to know about this outstanding publication. I want their subscription base to continue to grow and GROW and G-R-O-W! I want to see Life:Beautiful in my mailbox for years to come!

Seems like yesterday . . .but it WAS long ago . . .

2009-06-10T23:26:00.004-04:00

While looking for something else tonight I came across these photos in an obscure folder somewhere in the digital guts of our main computer, and just thought I'd share them here. This sweet, impish munchkin is twelve now! Twelve-going-on-twenty, and still sweet and still impish.

And this little lady turns 17 this week. I can't believe I have a daughter that old! Still little, and still a lady (usually!)

And then there's Miss Middle Daughter--still with the same enthusiasm for life, and still best friends with her big sister.

I don't have any sisters, but I SO enjoy my three daughters, and am blest with the best collection of sisters-in-law that a woman could ever wish for!

coffee...tea...or maybe a tomato?

2009-06-08T19:44:00.006-04:00

I've been looking for something to hold mugs above my "beverage station" table. So, here it is. A mini oak bookshelf thing--very solid--that I found at a yard sale last week for $2.00. My husband spray-painted it off-white with paint I had in the basement.

I like it. I like my fiesta ware a lot, and I like how it looks here, almost like art. But now I don't want anybody to mess up my mug system. Hehe. They have to take the other mishmash ones out of the cupboard first and only use these as a last resort. Yes, it DOES kinda defeat the whole purpose, but I like the shelves to be full!

The 3-tier plate stand usually holds fruit, but since I haven't shopped for a while all that's left is tomatoes! So, will it be coffee, tea, or tomatoes?

Check out more "weekend wonders" bargains over at Econobusters!

portfolio time again (groan)

2009-06-01T20:21:00.008-04:00

PA homeschool law requires us to submit a portfolio to the school district each year by June 3oth, and have the kids independently evaluated by a certified teacher. At certain grade levels standardized testing is also required.

In an ideal year we put together a few pages in each subject each month for our portfolios instead of it being a grand-slam project at the end of the year. But ideal years are few and far between! So we'll be sorting papers, printing photos, 3-hole punching worksheets, and what not else for the next few days. Evaluations are on Thursday.

Help me out here . . . playing hide and seek among the pillars of the U.S. Supreme Court . . . does this look like Social Studies? (Though the 2 oldest did do a full year of Civics as well :)
And how about this for some art in real life? Yes . . . I really did let the younger two paint their bedroom like this!

More art--the chicken coop in progress.

And what about this? Looks like hands-on science to me!

What a difference a few weeks makes!

Ok, gotta run -- the 3-hole punch is calling my name. Let's see what photos we can find for math and health and safety and . . . I'd better check that list of required subjects again!

Weekend Wonders

2009-06-01T08:36:00.006-04:00

I was really stoked to yard sale this weekend. It was the first Saturday this month that we didn't have anything scheduled, and I was ready to hit the road, and scout not one, but two neighborhood garage sales.

Sadly, the biggest deal at both these neighborhood sales was the traffic. I didn't find a thing on my list! But I did find a few little beauties at prices too good to pass up.

Like these Nantucket style baskets--a nesting set of 4, plus a little hanging basket. Very cute, and very solid with tight weave and a wooden bottom in each basket. Not sure where I'll use them yet, but I'm sure they'll find a happy home and be put to work! You can see what I paid on the tag--for the whole set!

I happen to love "happy" purses and shoes. They just add a some fun and life to a basic, middle aged wardrobe. I'm no Imelda Marcos (remember her?) but I do have lots of fun shoes and bags from thrift stores and yard sales. Here's a cute Kate Spade bag I found for $1.00 on Saturday. . .

and these cute little yellow flats just make me smile. I love the buckle (and I love that I don't have to undo it all the time - the shoes just slip on perfectly) and since I'm a sucker for gingham-(love it!) I just couldn't pass up these $1.00 cuties. Life is too short to wear boring shoes...no?

Check out "Weekend Wonders" over at Econobusters.com to see what my buds found.

Patriotism IS alive and well in America

2009-05-25T13:08:00.009-04:00

Granted, I live in western PA, where we think it's a compliment to be classified as people who "cling to their guns and religion." Yeah, we kinda think it's a good idea to defend and value our Constitutional rights. Let me tell you about the America you DON'T read about in the press.

It's already 80 degrees by 10 a.m. The Memorial Day parade in the smallish town is scheduled to begin at 11. An hour ahead of time the sidewalks are lined with a sea of people of all shapes,sizes, and ages, some with lawn chairs, some with dogs, many with strollers, most wearing red, white or blue.

The first marchers in the parade are veterans--there are still a few from WW2 even--and these brave men are greeted with cheers and applause all the way down main street, for the entire length of the parade. Next up is the Junior High marching band, nicely dressed in khakis and white shirts, playing "God Bless America."

Behind them the volunteer firefighters march neatly in two long columns, each looking mighty fine in dress uniform. Yes, they VOLUNTEER to put out fires, and deal with other emergencies in our community, at all hours of the day and night.

Then a few sports cars drive past slowly, carrying veterans who can no longer march. Yes, there is still enthusiastic applause. Last in line is the outstanding local high school marching band, playing patriotic songs to a pumped-up crowd.

Then hundreds of people gather round the shady front lawn of a historic building at the foot of main street, and the brief ceremony starts with a prayer. Yes, a prayer, by a former army chaplain. A 21 gun salute follows and a lone trumpeter plays TAPS. After a couple more speeches, the laying of a wreath, and a closing benediction, the marching band fires up a stirring rendition of The Star Spangled Banner and It's a Grand Old Flag.

Yes, people stand, men with their caps held to their chests, in the 85 degree heat, with the sun beating down, and pay respects to those who sacrificed their tomorrows so that we have our todays.

Several people took free Bibles, fridge magnets and posters with Bible verses from our little storefront church, where we make a point to have the doors open for every community event.

Within a 20 mile radius of my home, there are easily a dozen similar parades taking place today. This is the America you DON'T read about in our national press, and certainly don't hear about internationally.

We really are not a nation of jaded, politically correct wimps and wusses --and if you don't believe me, just make a note on your Blackberry to visit small town USA on the 4th of July this year.

Bring Yer Rubber Gloves

2009-05-21T17:41:00.004-04:00

In what has been a season of "When it rains it pours" the dishwasher is the latest casualty. Guests . . . yinz have been warned!

In happier news, two of our daughters were baptized this week. (3 John 1:4 ~ I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.) Really, what else compares?

Our son will graduate from high school in a couple of weeks. I can't tell you how glad we will be to have that over!

And . . . the chicken coop is ALMOST done! Just in time too, those chick babies are HUGE now.

Another joy of summer . . .

2009-05-18T10:03:00.007-04:00

. . . is the yard sales popping up everywhere. This weekend our family was attending a Bible Conference out of state so I missed out on a couple of great neighborhood sales close to home. So sad! But I did manage to pick up these beauties on Thursday. I paid $1.00 for five of these heavy duty plastic picnic trays. Love the print, and I know we'll use them over and over to carry lunch out to the backyard this summer.

Other friends scored much better than I did. See more Weekend Wonders here!

I wish you could smell them

2009-05-12T15:28:00.003-04:00

Lilacs from the side yard in milk glass from the thrift store. What's not to love?

Weekend Wonders

2009-05-11T19:04:00.004-04:00

I'm participating in a new meme over at Econobusters called Weekend Wonders. It's a place to showcase and brag on the weekends' yard sale finds. I think it's going to be a lot of fun! Here's my find.

Last fall my friend lent me her Victorio to make applesauce and I was sooo impressed. I know it's going to be great for tomato sauce too. Basically for applesauce, I just washed the apples, then cut them in half, and cooked them, skin, stems and all in a little water.

Then, I dumped the mushy apples in the top of the Victorio a little at a time. We took turns cranking the handle. What happens is that the seeds, stems and skin come out one little chute, and applesauce comes out the other. Tada! No peeling or coring or chopping of the apples. It was a huge timesaver. By the way -- my husband was home and suggested we put the skins and cores through the Victorio again, and it did squeeze more applesauce out--well worth while.

Anyway, I've seen Victorios sold online and elsewhere from $45.00 up to $70.00. I got this one, never used, brand new in the box for $5.00. And yes, I probably overpaid. If my friend was with me should would have asked if they'd take $3.00. But I am THRILLED with it!

Hillbilly Happenings

2009-05-03T20:03:00.007-04:00

Strawberries are coming . . . although the bunnies in the neighborhool have been busy, and my strawberry patch is hurtin' this year. Look closely at the trellis my husband was kind enough to hang for me this weekend. He humors my ideas, most of the time. There's another trellis exactly the same on the other side of the gate. Hmm, they're about 7 feet long and 4 feet wide, can you guess what they are? Probably not, so I'll tell you. It's the "guts" of 2 boxsprings. Two of the kids got loft beds and don't use box springs anymore. The box springs took up garage space for a while. They were too old to donate anywhere, so we took all the fabric and stuffing off, and this is what we found. I think it's going to be a great trellis for the morning-glories and moonflowers I want to plant around the patio.

And . . .the chicken coop is progressing, for which I am thankful, since the chickies are growing like bad weeds. We get such a kick out of them. It's cheap entertainment to drop a worm into their cage, and more fun to watch than a basketball game. Whatever chick gets the worm runs and flaps up and down through the middle of the other ones. Then they all start squawking and flapping and chasing each other in circles. You should see all the blocking and dodging and bobbing and weaving that goes on, along with the occasional worm stealing. It is laugh-out-loud funny! That's this weekend's Hillbilly Happenings.

Hoosier (?) Cabinet Questions

2009-05-02T14:41:00.009-04:00

I've admired Hoosier Cabinets for a loooong time, so I was pretty excited to find this at a "junk" shop recently. It's in pieces here, because I'm trying to clean it. But I have questions and would love to hear from anyone who knows about Hoosier type cabinets. Obviously the top piece sits on this base. Stenciled on the back of both the base and the top hutch part is "NO 269 SILVER WHITE FORSYTHE. On the underside of the pullout worksurface is stamped "MAR 1939 PORCELIRON" The base has been painted at some point, but the bottom right metal drawer, and the shelves inside the open part are all intact. Now, here's the top, and here's my dilemma. I really intended to scrub this baby up, paint it at creamy white, and USE it in my house. But after some cleaning and stuff, I'm suspecting that this paint and stencil on the top is the original 1939 paint job. The stencil is so art deco looking, and it appears to have been sprayed on. It just seems like it would be a very un-cool thing to do to paint over this. I'm doing a bit of research before I do anything but wash it up more. The roll-up tambour door works fine, as does the flour sifter thing. The door on the left (with the handle on the top) tilts out, and then the whole box thing is metal lined. The housewives of the day dumped their flour in there, and then it was dispensed out of the sifter thing at the bottom by cranking the little handle.

I'd love your input, as I try to figure out whether to paint this or not. Apart from being absolutely filthy it is in good shape - all drawers work fine. Except for the tambour door handle, which is metal, the other knobs are ugly black plastic.

this is a close up of the top part, to show the stencilling.

Look at this filthy water! This was after just an initial wiping down. The entire thing needs to be scrubbed with a toothbrush. But I LOVE it. Please, if you know anything about these cabinets, leave me a comment here. I don't even know the manufacturer. There were several companies, not just Hoosier, who made these. From the little research I did on the web last night I think it may be a Sellers brand, but I really don't know. Looking forward to hearing from someone who knows about this stuff. Thanks!

And still more D.C. photos

2009-04-15T21:49:00.004-04:00

The courtyard of the Navy Memorial features a huge world map. Jim is standing over there right under the great lakes. While I was looking at Europe Megan came dancing over the Atlantic and hopped onto Ireland saying "Hi Grandma and Grandpa!" (My parents live in Northern Ireland.)

We got off the Metro at the Chinatown station to do a little exploring. This arch across the street is quite something, isn't it?

And here is one of the pandas at the zoo. Again, the Metro runs to within a very short walk to the zoo. It's a super public transportation system. For Jessica, who babysat our chickies, we bought a journal of handmade paper made from panda poo. Would I kid you? I guess there's a lot of undigested bamboo fiber in their poo, and some industrious Chinese folk wash it all and make it into paper. Either that or we are suckers who bought the story...and the journal.

One of the chickies died. I kind of suspected she might. She had a deformed toe on each foot, and even as a tiny chicky it seemed that she was struggling a bit. The remaining five just about doubled in size while we were gone. We need to get busy and get a coop built before they outgrow their doghouse digs.

More pictures from D.C.

2009-04-15T11:21:00.002-04:00

This engraving is located at the WW II Memorial. It's a large and beautiful site with strking fountains, and a pillar for every state -- very impressive. I love that our kids (and Jim and I) could see that appreciation and honor demonstrated for U.S. servicemen and women.

Of course, everyone recognizes this as the Arlington National Cemetery. It was heartwarming to see that propriety and dignity are still, in fact, alive and well in this country. Throughout the grounds signs remind visitors that this is "hallowed ground" and not a place for "picnics...and child's play" and to respect the dead, as well as those who are attending burials and visiting the graves of loved ones in the cemetery. More than 25 burials occur on an average day on these grounds. There were many visitors/tourists walking through the cemetery, but I didn't hear any shouting or raised voices, or see anyone goofing off or being rowdy.

We did watch the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Impressive that the tomb is patrolled 24/7/365.

I'll post a couple more pictures of sites over the next few days. The neat thing about D.C. is that nearly everywhere is free to visit -- all the Smithsonian Museums, all the various buildings and monuments -- even the National Zoo. We even squeezed in a quick visit to the zoo, since we all wanted to see the Giant Pandas. I'll post those pics tomorrow.

My very favorite place was the Lincoln Memorial. It's something I've always wanted to see, and I was not at all disappointed. It's really an awe inspiring site.

what I didn't post last week...

2009-04-14T19:54:00.003-04:00

in the interest of security and all, is that the day after our chicks arrived we left for a few days vacation in Washington D.C. Our friend, Jessica, is very kindly chick-sitting and we'll pick up the ladies tomorrow morning.

Here's a photo of Jim and the kids in front of the Capitol Building on Monday night, and another of the Supreme Court with the famous cherry blossoms in the foreground. We had an excellent time and packed a whole lot into 2 and a half days.

This is our first time to D.C. and we were very impressed by all the beautiful buildings and monuments, the efficiency of the public transportation (we bought passes every day and were hopping on and off those trains like old pros by the second day!) and how helpful and friendly people were in general.

The henny-pennies are here!

2009-04-10T09:24:00.006-04:00

They seem very happy in their little chickie condominium. I scrubbed and bleached the bottom half of an old doghouse, then Jim made a frame from scrap wood and some chicken wire. It fits snugly down over the top of the dog house-and he bolted in a piece of plywood to cover the door of the doghouse. He also bolted 2 pieces of wood to the sides that hold a removable cross piece that we hung 2 heatlamps from. The chicks need a temperature of about 95 degrees F for the first couple of weeks. The only thing we purchased here was the chicken wire, and the rest of the roll will be used for their "big girl" house in the coming weeks. We had the heat lamps from our country living in Wisconsin days.

And here's Erin, holding "Emma". Erin's on a bit of a Jane Austen kick--she really thought we should get a rooster so we could call it "Mr. Bingley."

And Lauren is holding Daisy--as in "Crazy Daisy." This chickie is the self-appointed mom of the flock already. She patrols around the doghouse keeping everything and everybody in line. Funny! She's an Auracana. We have 3 of those, and 3 silver-laced Wyandottes. The other "ladies" have been named Lucy, Paris, Wendy, and Genevive. They're cute and all, but I can't wait for them to grow up and start laying. Omelettes, anyone?

keeping me busy

2009-04-04T10:33:00.006-04:00

A few weeks ago I was able to back off work a bit. It's always a struggle to find that balance, isn't it? I love these downloadable binder covers our very talented graphics lady just finished for Econobusters. They're free over at http://www.econobusters.com/. So, here I was showing them off and my daughter took the picture.

It's nice now to have time to actually DO some of the things I've been writing about for the past several months--chickens, of course, being one of those things! Today I'll be getting ready for the chickies ...watch for pictures this week! Soon it will be time to get the garden going...though we're forecasted to have snow next week. Ugh, I am so over snow!

I'd love to dig into the house and do a big declutter and redesigning, but first we have to get this homeschool year wrapped up. Fun stuff.

Enough rambling...I'm off to help the 2 oldest wrap up their research papers for their leadership class at co-op. One chose to research and write about Harriet Tubman, and the other did Erin ?? (forget the last name) from Freedom Writers. One of the cool things about homeschooling is learning right along with the kids. I can only imagine what my brain (which feels like it has already shriveled to a raisin) would be like without this workout.

The chickens are coming...the chickens are coming!

2009-04-02T20:14:00.002-04:00

Yes, chickens. Several years ago we had a little flock of chickens. That was then, this is now. Then we lived on 5 acres in the middle of nowhere. Now we live in a subdivision. We dream of living on a little farm again, but since the current economy has put the kabosh on us going anywhere, we're going to bring the farm (metaphorically speaking of course) to us!

I ordered 6 chicks . . . and they'll be here next week. 3 are silver laced wyandottes, and 3 are Americana --you know, the ones who lay pastel colored eggs...It all started when I read that "blue eggs and yellow tomatoes" book that I blogged about a few months ago.

I just kinda stopped by the feed store today and asked the friendly desk guy when the chicky orders would be arriving. I was quite floored when he said, "Let's see...the 9th."

Since we're doing this on the "cheep" (bwa ha ha) the chickies first home will be the bottom half of a plastic dog house, with a window screen over the top. We still have a chick feeder and heat lamp in the garage somewhere. I'm SO excited about the thought of fresh eggs again. Watch for pictures of the babes coming soon. Meanwhile if you have any good hen name ideas, do let me know.

"Hey...I think that box is for me!"

2009-03-21T18:11:00.005-04:00

says Cassie. She is truly the nosiest thing that ever walked on four legs. Every gift-opening occasion--birthdays, Christmas, you name it--she's right there, checking out everything that comes out of every package. It's actually pretty funny.

Here our baby, Megan, turns 12. Not quite sure how that's happened so fast. I remember turning 12, and it doesn't seem like THAT long ago. Guess I should be feeling old. Sometimes I do . . . but I think about this quote:

"None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm." (Henry David Thoreau)

That DOES sound like a drag, but sometimes it is hard to keep enthusiasm alive. I think I need to learn some new stuff, meet some new people, go some new places. Hmmm...I'll have to give that some thought.

Just noticing in this picture how UGLY the couch is. But the price was right at a garage sale 6 years ago!

Music!

2009-03-19T19:03:00.005-04:00

Finally added some music here -- just a few songs for now--ones that I've been enjoying. I'll tell you right up front, I DON'T enjoy the music from "God is in Control" but I do love the lyrics. Here's the refrain. . .

God is in control

We believe that His children will not be forsaken

God is in control

He will choose to remember, and never be shaken

There is no power above or beside Him, we know

God is in control

Oh, God is in control.

Good reminder.

Up top is a sunrise . . . Tuesday's to be specific. A point and shoot camera through the window and screen somehow doesn't quite capture the beauty. My computer is in front of our bedroom window, and while doing a little writing it was quite awesome to watch the sky go from black to gray to all sorts of rosy colors. Very inspiring.

This morning was another early start - 5:30 a.m. It was my day for stable chores. That's inspiring too, in its own way. I'll share some barn pictures soon!

My work blog http://www.econobusters.com/ is a much more happening place than here. I'm so blessed to be able to work from home, doing what I enjoy.

3/21 edited to add - okay I just removed that song...it came blasting on when I checked my blog this morning before my second cup of coffee and scared the pants off me. So, it's gotta go . . . way too jarring.

A Sweet Simple Pleasure

2009-03-17T21:22:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I woke up early in the morning to the sound of birds chirping in the woods behind our house. It just poured happiness into my day. Spring has returned to Pennsylvania, and I can't tell you how sweet it is!

Maybe it's because I was born in the Caribbean . . . I think I missed out on the "enjoy the winter" gene. Or else I just had a limited dose of it, and it's all run out. I sure love me some sunshine and shirt-sleeved days. It's such a contented, joyful, comfortable feeling.

I was thinking recently about mornings in Trinidad, where I grew up. I remember how bright, bright sunshine would flood in through the windows, and the house would be surrounded with a cacaphony (is that how you spell it?) of roosters crowing, dogs barking, neighbors calling . . . it seems like nothing there happens in partway measures. All five senses, engaged, all the time.

Enough reminiscing. Life is rattling on. Never dull, that's for sure. Full, busy days bunched into weeks and months before we realize it. Maybe that's why I so enjoy those few moments in the early morning, in the half-light, when I can wake up slowly . . . with the cheerful, chirpy birds welcoming a new day.

On the road again. . .

2009-03-08T20:06:00.002-04:00

Heading off to Canada in the weeeeee hours of the morning tomorrow.

Here's a quote I've been enjoying from Theodore Roosevelt. It's not rocket science, but it can be life-changing, especially in times like these.

Teddy says: "Do what you can, where you are, with what you have." Alrighty then, let's do it!

How to write an article in one night

2009-03-05T18:43:00.003-05:00

1. Resolve not to remove bum from desk chair. Use duct tape if necessary.
2. Disable all networking applications such as IM, facebook, and email.
3. Turn off phone and cell phone.
4. Just start typing. Do 100 words.
5. Eat 2 Starbucks chocolate coated coffee beans.
6. Type 100 more words.
7. Eat 2 more chocolate covered coffee beans.
8. Repeat steps 6 & 7 as neccessary until article is completed, by which time you will have consumed 34 chocolate covered coffee beans and sleep will be the farthest thing from your mind.

Disclaimer: Not recommended for every day usage. If symptoms persist, reorganize your life.

Two confused dogs

2009-03-03T21:38:00.005-05:00

It doesn't take much to confuse Cassie (the blonde on the left) at the best of times. I told you we moved a peninsula counter in the kitchen. See the one along the left wall? Well that used to jut out into the room. We basically swung it around 90 degrees to run along the wall instead. Well, that peninsula used to mark the boundary of where the dogs were allowed. I did NOT want them underfoot when I was cooking, nor did I want them sneaking by the fridge into the laundry room and pantry.

All of a sudden one morning, they come up from their basement hideaway and "What's this?! Who stole the fake oak wall?" Utter confusion. And Cassie, bless her heart, is examining the itty bitty hole in the flooring where the electrical conduit came through when the counter was in it's original spot. They're still quite edgy about it all, several days into this new set-up. As for me, I'm loving the extra space . . . and training them to stay behind the little spot on the floor. What WILL they do when we fix the flooring?

Just when we thought spring was on its way . . .

2009-03-02T20:12:00.005-05:00

we're dropping into the single digits tonight . . . -10 to -15 F with windchill. Good grief. At least we didn't get any more snow like the east side of the state.

Just thought I'd share the newest addition to our kitchen. A few years ago I bought this stained glass hanging for my sweet Aunt Grace because she loved cardinals. She went home to heaven just about a year ago, and recently her husband gave this back to me. So the birdies have come back to Pennsylvania to roost. Jim just hung it up in the window for me yesterday and I love it.

In other kitchen news, we moved a very awkward counter peninsula that has been bugging me for 5 years, so that the kitchen is now a big open rectangle. Much better! Picture tomorrow.

Off now to get ready for co-op tomorrow. I teach a writing class to 6th and 7th graders, and co-teach a world geography class based on Around the World in 80 Days to a group of about a dozen kids ranging from 2nd to 7th grades. That class has been a lot of fun - a lot of interesting food and art and games from all over the world . . . very organic learning. Gotta love it.

Last week we were learning about India and had the kids wrapped up in saris and dhotis (bedsheets!) and eating Naan with dahl, with mango on the side. And we played snakes and ladders. Betcha didn't know that originated in India - tied in the with the whole good karma/bad karma reincarnation thing. It's VERY bad karma in snakes and ladders to land on a snake's head.

New Look, New Start, What's with the Title?

2009-02-15T18:24:00.003-05:00

Giddy with the excitement of having some free time this weekend, I decided to tweak my blog template. I can't quite exactly recall the sequence of events, but suddenly all the blue and yellow background loveliness was gone. Vanished. Just like that. Oh my!

It's okay. This is a nice fresh look. I'll play around with it some and try to make it a bit more interesting in the weeks to come. So, I decided (with the whole fresh slate syndrome and all) to change the title too. According to my kids, "Have you seen my glasses?" is one of the phrases they hear most often. That, and "Should I make a cup of tea?"

Welcome to my world!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T13:36:00.003-05:00

A sweet handmade Valentine from a friend.

What a nice surprise in my mailbox today!

It's the little things that make a life. . .

2009-02-13T21:02:00.003-05:00

. . .like going to the stables with my youngest daughter to do barn chores in a "work to board" program. They say we remember moments, not days, and I know that it's moments like these that add up to make a rich and joyful life. Megan adores our horse, Hope, who was given to us by the stable owner at Christmas.

So, what do YOU do on a snow day?

2009-01-28T10:31:00.003-05:00

Yeah, you can guess what I'm doing. The only thing missing from the picture is a laptop which crashed last weekend, and an email program that had problems . . . enough said. Maybe I'll post an "after" picture!

Snow and freezing rain here today. Again. We've certainly had a real winter in PA this January.

"Never yet was a Springtime when the buds forgot to bloom." ~Margaret Elizabeth Sangster.

I'm ready. Bring on the blooms!

Blue Eggs and Yellow Tomatoes

2008-12-29T21:23:00.004-05:00

THAT'S the title of this book. I never buy a book without seeing it in real life first. Yes, I'm weird that way. This book looks amazing. I'll be heading to Borders this week and I hope they have it so I can check it out. Here's part of the description on Amazon:

A visually stunning guide to the emerging kitchen garden culture--combining home-grown ingredients with globally influenced tastes!

Like many of today's home gardeners, Jeanne Kelley's backyard kitchen garden is a means to indulge her desire for fresh, organic, and flavor-rich produce. Just minutes outside of downtown Los Angeles, this same backyard is also home to Kelley's pet goat and Ameraucana chickens, which provide her with a plentiful amount of milk and sky blue eggs that often feature in Kelley's internationally inspired dishes. Now she shares more than 150 of her recipes, all of which incorporate new and authentic ways to take advantage of local and seasonal foods and incorporate the multi-ethnic flavors into your everyday meals.

Pet goat for milk? Chickens? Kitchen garden? Locavore recipes with multi-ethnic flavors? It all sounds good to me! So I'll be checking out this book.

Meanwhile, my brother is living the life - hiking the hills of Spain by day, and attending Spanish cooking classes by night. Now THAT's an adventure!

Where I've been hiding...

2008-12-10T14:48:00.010-05:00

Meet my new baby, Molly Green. I've been busy looking after her over at Econobusters.com. This is the most exciting thing ever to come down the pipe for me in my writing and editing world. Seriously. I'm incredibly blessed to work from home on a project that I am passionate about. And when I say work from home, I mean WORK from home!

We're slowly coming out of the all-guts-no-glory stage, and this will all be officially launched very soon. Molly's Money-Saving Digest (a 30 to 40 page E-Book) will be produced every month, with the January 2009 edition available to purchase in, well, January. Details will be coming on the Econobusters site soon.

A (very) small team of women, myself included, will be blogging the website there almost every day. AND, we're also looking to start up a free mini E-Newsletter every week. Ambitious plans . . on an ambitious schedule. But it is coming together. I'll be spending a lot of time there for the next little while, so this blog will likely be neglected. So please, please, please come and visit me at Econobusters.com.

And if you can spare $4.95 please think about buying Molly's Money-Saving Digest in January. You see, even though my boss thinks I'm a nice person and all (at least I think she does!) I still have to earn my keep with the company.

So, that's where I've been, and what I've been doing. And yes, the computers are both still acting up, just to keep things extra interesting! I could NEVER complain about life being boring.

Computer Woes

2008-12-01T13:50:00.002-05:00

We're experiencing some nasty computer issues - a virus of some kind that triggers obscene pop-ups, and then other problems as well. Somehow it's gotten by our anti-virus program and pop-up blockers, etc.

It started on just our main computer, but now I'm having issues with my laptop too. So, if you know me and need to be in contact, please give me a call. I've cancelled Facebook and Shoutlife, and disabled my personal email account also until we get this resolved. I also won't be blogging until we get this problem fixed.

Being Thankful

2008-11-27T09:53:00.004-05:00

Well the turkey's in the oven, the chocolate chip cheesecake is looking lovely. . . let the drooling begin.

This morning I am burdened for some families I know that are really struggling this Thanksgiving. While putzing around in the kitchen (one of my favorite things to do) I've been thinking over a lot of things.

Last Thanksgiving Day I was making dinner for one of the dearest people in the world to me. With a terminal cancer diagnosis, she had months to live. While stirring gravy and what not I wondered how we could bear it, how we would ever laugh again, how would life go on. She was laughing and happy in the living room, visiting with those she loved, but nobody could ignore the sadness at the edges of the conversations.

And here we are already, a year later. She is with the Lord. What better could we wish for someone that we love? That is REAL life, and she is FILLED with Thanksgiving. And today, we will be FILLED with turkey, and mashed potatoes, and gratitude for God's grace and comfort and peace that passes all understanding. With hearts that are changed forever we are still able to laugh, and praise God.

So, this really isn't a downer post, and I wanted to share this with those who are facing uncertainty this Thanksgiving, and may be afraid. We are more resilient and resourceful that we might think, but more importantly, God is better than we know. Here's a poem that just about everyone has probably heard. I'm not sure of the origin; it was supposedly written by an unknown Confederate soldier. It's a timely reminder. In everything . . . Give Thanks!

I asked God for strength, that I might achieve.
I was made weak, that I might learn to humbly obey...
I asked for health, that I might do greater things.
I was given infirmity, that I might do better things...
I asked for riches, that I might be happy.
I was given poverty, that I might be wise...
I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men.
I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God...
I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life.
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things...
I got nothing I asked for - but everything I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am, among men, most richly blessed!