tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89857312024-03-12T21:29:18.398-04:00Easley ParkThe original blog of the Easley Family: Brad, Meg, Emma, Josie, Darcy, and you! B and MEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15297095004149031631noreply@blogger.comBlogger218125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-28764769261812818342014-06-13T17:09:00.000-04:002014-06-13T17:09:33.228-04:00Today’s View<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufUaPcxg02Am97237BG2cSXB1zursSMjdG_bXNk5VCSOvKFRlDtdpG0_l5EqYvXLK0x7iCcSLet6XhgyemNBxweCxftNI8yhK_g7PW4loHDQvrMGcPvftPDPM7M3IXWMG1SHV/s1600/12726_10202714965011888_1261135637_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufUaPcxg02Am97237BG2cSXB1zursSMjdG_bXNk5VCSOvKFRlDtdpG0_l5EqYvXLK0x7iCcSLet6XhgyemNBxweCxftNI8yhK_g7PW4loHDQvrMGcPvftPDPM7M3IXWMG1SHV/s1600/12726_10202714965011888_1261135637_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRMJMnuMMs2bxBaMVg5jdtBqzy8aCApMKd40Hsd9fAxeDaHmJi1JOWaXGN7RT_DuRxI0j9-6hr2cpzrs27bzp6h-DNkkxdmFJGJglUXjavJBf7JIZ5RXlF2kX_VLySBVawYho/s1600/10439425_10203443987396992_7956755401307382440_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRMJMnuMMs2bxBaMVg5jdtBqzy8aCApMKd40Hsd9fAxeDaHmJi1JOWaXGN7RT_DuRxI0j9-6hr2cpzrs27bzp6h-DNkkxdmFJGJglUXjavJBf7JIZ5RXlF2kX_VLySBVawYho/s1600/10439425_10203443987396992_7956755401307382440_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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A few months ago I started a series of photographs I call “Today’s View”. They started as a somewhat tongue-in-cheek view as how big my belly - and finally ankles - had grown. But as I took the pictures I started to notice the change. My belly really did grow – BIG. My legs looked shorter. Then there was an actual baby’s head. He was nursing – and I didn’t show all that – but I continued to show what I saw that day from my current perspective. It helped me to remember why I’m doing what I’m doing. I’m not just sitting here, doing nothing, although I often feel that way. I have so much I want to get done, and yet I sit. But why do I sit? I sit because I’m the mom of a newborn. I direct my home from my perch, and in directing have to let many things slide. Until it can slide no longer.</div>
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Today I had an professional organizer come and help me prioritize. She is amazing. She gave me ideas. She motivated me. Previously, it was only her photos on social media that motivated me. That is until the ankles and belly became too big to do much, and then the baby came to nurse. And nurse. And nurse….</div>
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But today she came. Hope is in the air! All this happened and then I had a thought… </div>
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Perhaps I can only get just one thing accomplished each day. Only one. Some days, that’s simply caring for a baby {and perhaps about 5 loads of laundry… but they won’t get folded… not in one day.} Other days I can get something else done. Just one simple thing, mind you. But I do something every day, no matter how small. </div>
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That lead to this thought. If I get one thing done each day, in a year that’s 365 tasks accomplished!. Okay, so I may not do it every day, but even it I only do it once every few days… well, you get the idea.</div>
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So I have begun. I will try to only get one thing done at a time. I know, I know! This sounds silly. But you see, I get overwhelmed. I see messes everywhere and I can’t figure out where to start. So I'll just focus on one simple task today.</div>
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Just do one thing. It doesn’t have to be the “right” thing. I can try something else <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_960281086" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">tomorrow</span></span>. So, where to start?</div>
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>Go sort dress-up clothes?<br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>Go through baby cloths to look for the next size up?<br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>Change out the maternity clothes in my dresser for my real clothes?</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>Or write about doing it all right now?</div>
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Today I write, so that <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_960281087" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">tomorrow</span></span> I can read about this and remember. Oh, yeah, I’m going to go DO that ONE thing right NOW!</div>
<img height="1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEjHX-QtByBrka_1cSz2W9kOfnfT8av9u4Qi8V6iqaddlAIj1h0Dln-wH1jPhvVDO44HPvHbwjXGjatsk9oDWAXOqfO1vWNIdvqVXTIMCK2TuEDEihLaWSN2cVVNgxX3Ke9Ahf7OVpN6-va9LlXFgZrNQVw5-5xvg2SQPwR-mP2uM09nq-W6Qh4wGgEFZ-Buff4QgTD1LTTEMX8m6qwWU7UskRZu8vGYVFnDZGa64Nz3N2-KWdT1GTHVMhc4yY-78cc=s0-d-e1-ft&key=90a7210f-6294-47e6-fa77-f4632063d5a2" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" width="1" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-3613168917119795962014-02-11T21:15:00.003-05:002014-02-11T21:26:40.164-05:00Happy Valentine's Day! {2014 Version} <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I found a blog post from last year. I had written about 75% of it and then somehow never finished it and never posted it. Regardless, it was a Valentine's Day post. So I thought I'd finish my thoughts here. </div>
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We love Valentine's Day around here. Not so much the "big gifts" and "date night" for Brad and I. What we love is coming up with the Valentine's "happies" that we make for E's friends. This year was a first! This year J is in school as well and was so very excited to help make them for her classmates. We always spend quite a bit of time to research ideas and look for new designs that we haven't made before. </div>
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This has become quite the tradition for the girls and I! But we're not the first generation to do this. Nope, I did this with my mother. I remember spending time with her hand making Valentine's for my friends and classmates. No store bought ideas or candies were allowed in the Boyer home. At the time, I'm not sure I always appreciated the work that went into this. My mother didn't "do" most candies, and she was very insistent that we could be more creative then a box could provide. She was right - but again, I wish I had realized that earlier! Thanks, Mum, for remembering your art teacher roots and challenging your daughter! I'm doing my best to carry on this tradition. :) </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-63399487802018428772014-02-05T11:05:00.001-05:002014-02-05T11:05:27.391-05:00In Between
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><i>I feel like we should let
the cat out of the bag. </i></span></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We as parents can only try our best.
That's it. There is just not a set of Pinterest boards to help us
all know how to deal with a child. Nope. Each kid is different and
each situation is different. Thus we work with the clues we have. We
pray, ask for wisdom, read, and hope that we are making the right choices.
If we are smart we also look backward to how our parents reacted.
We can learn so much from our parents and grandparents, both in what to
do and what not to do. I hope my kids do the same because there is much I
don't want them to emulate in parenting from me! But I do hope there are
a few nuggets of wisdom that can be passed on. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ok, enough rambling. Here's the
reason I'm writing. I was blown away by my oldest yesterday. She is
eleven, and every bit of it – the good, the bad, the hormonal. The current term is “tween”. I'm
sure I had never heard that before the last ten years, but it’s a term that
seems rather true. She loves her American Girl dolls and yet wants to
cook the family dinner. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is an amazing time, yet I often
think I don't stop to enjoy it nearly enough. We are a busy family with
everyone having a their own demanding schedules. We own our own small
business, one daughter lives for ballet and friends, the other enjoys dance and
gymnastics, plus my husband works full-time outside of the home. We are
the poster children for the on-the-go family. Over the last couple of
years I have cut out many distractions from our family so we could slow down -
but even with those things cut out, we are just busy! Your family is busy
as well. This is modern life. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With these things happening I hadn't
realized how messy the 11- year-old’s room had become. One night as I was
tucking the girls in bed and praying over them, I turned around and nearly
fell. Wow! Every surface was
covered and the floor had a good deal of loot out as well! Because I knew
we had been busy, I didn't yell or fuss, but I did give a warning. She
would have the next several days to find time to clean this up or the items
were going to walk away. Do you think this worked? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">No. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I reminded her the next couple of
days. Her father reminded her. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Nothing changed. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So one night I went in with a plastic
bag. Dolls, books, jewelry, clothes, iPods and such. It's interesting what
is out in a tweens room. Not as many toys anymore, but what a mess!
And every bit of it went into the bag. She was not happy. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Too bad. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So then it came to what to do about
this. Her father and I decided to ask her to write an essay as to why
it's important to keep a room clean. She would write out why we have
rules and help earn back her "stuff". <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A day later, she hands us the essay,
and what was written blew me away. Regardless of what we think, kids truly
are listening. I often feel like I'm talking to myself, or to a brick
wall, or to the dogs. The kids seem to just smile and keep doing what
they are doing. It can be maddening. My oldest is much like her
father – lovable, so profoundly different from normal human beings like myself.
They are introverts. They are internal processors. They do
not need to verbally process much of anything. But, having processed an
issue, what comes out is rather magical. I'd like to share with you her
own thoughts, the results of a week of processing. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">We’re going to talk about why you should keep your room clean
and how you can do it. First of all, keeping your room clean will
help you want to be there more. It can also help you have a better
night sleep. You can keep your room clean by organizing into
groups. Like dolls, tools, jewelry, art, and toy
animals. When your organizing you should also be going through your
piles and choosing things you don’t like so you can sell it or give it
away. </span></i><i><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"> </span></i></span></blockquote>
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a;">But you should never stuff things into drawers because your mom
or dad will find it later. Always keep the top of your dresser clean
and your bedside table. Never shove things into your closet for when
your friends come over you don’t want to be embarrassed. If you have
a little brother or sister you should always keep small parts off the ground
for they could choke. These are reasons why you keep your room clean
and how you can do it. </span></i><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sometimes (okay, all of the time)
parenting isn't easy. It’s the hardest
thing we’ve ever done. But these glimpses into into these little hearts
and minds make it so worth while! This isn't just about an essay as to
why to keep a room clean. It's about a child who is learning and trying
and growing. She's stuck in-between. In between a child and a young lady. Between immaturity and responsibility. Between needing Mom and craving
independence. I do miss the little
baby girl who would crawd up on me to nap. But I'm so in love with this
tall, gangly, curly haired young lady that’s she somehow become. I guess I’m in-between, too.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGu6r008DNpZbN99kf7dexiy8CL484ZXEaXnH95aw5-3y9aPmMHvb2X_m7qhzKzRFQUn7zAUCsJUrVQQnbt1i7Qq2XRM6JHagV73xsME68c_Z1tb_MA2R6eU-dTqbVbKphZLK_/s1600/easley-christmas-2010-168-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"></span></a><span style="color: #1a1a1a;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So although it's taking time to put into action, she's
getting it. It's in there. I'm praying that over the next couple of
years it continues to work its way from the inside out. There's generations of
wisdom in there, and for a moment I was stunned to see if spill out. She
has been listening, and I was a bit humbled. Humbled to be her mother,
humbles to watch her grow, humbled to lead and walk beside this curly-haired wonder
who continues to surprise and delight me.</span></span><a href="" name="_GoBack"></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGu6r008DNpZbN99kf7dexiy8CL484ZXEaXnH95aw5-3y9aPmMHvb2X_m7qhzKzRFQUn7zAUCsJUrVQQnbt1i7Qq2XRM6JHagV73xsME68c_Z1tb_MA2R6eU-dTqbVbKphZLK_/s1600/easley-christmas-2010-168-Edit.jpg" height="320" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="213" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{Oldest a few years ago, photo's by <a href="http://www.mileswittboyer.com/">www.mileswittboyer.com</a>} </td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-7237835955393026782014-01-31T00:16:00.002-05:002014-01-31T00:16:48.084-05:00I should have posted this before.... ;) <a href="http://<iframe src="//player.vimeo.com/video/70880512" width="500" height="281" webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen></iframe>" target="_blank"><iframe allowfullscreen="" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/70880512" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/100486635409863472/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our little new brew! {Baby Announcement...}</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am realizing that I should have written this before. At this point many people know - but I'm sure there may be a few who haven't found out. OOPS! Life sometimes seems to fly by and suddenly I realize that I'm 34 weeks pregnant and never wrote a single blog update about the pregnancy. In some ways perhaps this is good. It has been fairly uneventful! But on the other hand it also is because of the pace of our lives. We didn't get a Christmas card {or blog post!} put up this year. We didn't do many things we wanted to do...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">BUT...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We did find out we were pregnant!</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">13 years of marriage bliss! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 amazing girls through 2 amazing adoptions.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">13 homes - in 13 years! (<i>I'm glad to say that we have lived in many homes for upwards of 4 to 5 years, so although we have moved a lot - luckily many of those were for an extended time. Then we did several quick moves all at once!)</i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One gallbladder-removal surgery {last year} - which - we have NO idea how or why or WHAT it would have to do with anything... but.....</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One little boy-on-the-way with an estimated due date of March 13th!</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are so excited and so blown away with this journey. Our life has been crazy enough (running a business, homeschooling, etc.) so adding in a pregnancy with the normal ups and downs has been a bit of an adjustment! I was SHOCKED to be told that I was considered (get this!) a "geriatric pregnancy" because I was going to be 35 when the baby was born! Geriatric? Seriously? Good grief. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Regardless... I am now 34 weeks into this adventure. He moves a WHOLE lot and early on I felt like I was being taken over by a creature from beyond. (I'm from New Mexico - Area 51 anyone?!) But after the last several ultrasounds where we actually SAW this little boy - chubby wrists and hands and cheeks - it's feeling more real. The girls are so very excited. Several of my t-shirts have oil stains where J, the four year old, has run up and kissed on me. I didn't realize she had Chapstick on. Oops. At least it's a stain with a sweet memory! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's to another year, another baby, and another adventure! </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-5908702400655230332014-01-27T23:27:00.002-05:002014-02-05T15:51:54.477-05:00Snow days, warm fires, hot drinks! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiASw1nyD-mPJmnzUxoHCybKMzInj1ES-a8bLLuUak3Bs5OR9ARu0Pnib2rd2-CY83ORzpIfIQfQZKFPb-fZue2mAURJC6Z_VRD21QDiwNb66gN01aAqhgD0O4ai5z2_AiRz7r/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiASw1nyD-mPJmnzUxoHCybKMzInj1ES-a8bLLuUak3Bs5OR9ARu0Pnib2rd2-CY83ORzpIfIQfQZKFPb-fZue2mAURJC6Z_VRD21QDiwNb66gN01aAqhgD0O4ai5z2_AiRz7r/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />It's an especially COLD winter here in Kentucky! We've had a lovely set of storms and days that justified my enormous expenditure on our woodburning stove this past year. I for one have been glad to "need" it. Somehow it made me feel better! It also has been a great excuse for cooking more yummy soups, chile and other cold weather delights. One of our favorites has become a Creamy Green Chile Chicken Soup. It's really really really easy and really good! The whole family loves it - which says something when she-who-is-four-and-super-picky will chow down on a bowl! I serve it with an easy salad and bread. Perfect for those cold nights or lunches when everyone needs a warm up! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />Hope you enjoy! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><u><span style="font-size: 13pt;">Creamy Green Chile Chicken Soup</span></u></b><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="font-size: 13pt;">Adapted quite a bit from "</span></i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Taste-Enchantment-Treasured-Recipes-Albuquerque/dp/0960927816/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1349538749&sr=8-1&keywords=a+taste+of+enchantment"><i><span style="font-size: 13pt; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">A Taste of Enchantment</span></span></i></a><i><span style="font-size: 13pt;">"<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 Tbs. coconut oil<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 onion diced finely<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 garlic cloves, minced<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3 c. chicken stock<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 c. chicken, cooked and shredded (Store-bought
rotisserie works here – especially if you are short on time! I also keep bone
on chicken breast to easily stick in the oven for oven roasted in a pinch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So easy, salt, pepper, and roast – then
pull off bone!)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 c. green chile, diced (two small cans will equal
about 1 c. – that is if you can’t get fresh!)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 can diced potatoes – or about 1.5 c. diced
potatoes (I like canned because they potatoes hold up so well in soups.)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 Tbs. flour<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">8 oz. cream cheese, softened<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 c. half and half (milk will work just fine)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 tsp. garlic powder<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/4. tsp. onion powder<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/4 tsp. salt<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">¼ tsp. pepper<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In your dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add
onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for about a
minute, until fragrant. Add chicken stock, raise heat and bring to a boil.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">When stock is boiling, remove 1/2 c. of broth and
let it cool. To the boiling broth, add shredded chicken and green chile. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After reserved broth is cool, add 1 Tbs. of flour
to it and whisk until well blended. Add the flour mixture back into the boiling
broth and mix well. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring frequently.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Mix the milk or ½ and ½ and the cream cheese
together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it’s a bit lumpy that
is fine because the cream cheese will melt in the soup. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Add the cream cheese mixture gradually into the
soup, whisking constantly. When cream cheese mixture is added, reduce the heat
to a simmer then add in the rest of your spices (garlic powder, onion powder,
salt, and pepper). Don’t boil at this point! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Simmer the soup for 10 minutes, stirring
occasionally until the soup thickens. Do not boil.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This will re-heat VERY well…. If you have enough
left over!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">Keep warm and enjoy! </span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-28429440382420689162013-04-04T08:46:00.001-04:002013-04-04T08:46:36.031-04:00We've been out....I haven't written much lately. There's several reasons - most involve my life being so busy that I haven't had time to document the insanity! The other is that I want to write without boring everyone and myself. Honestly, I'm probably the everyone who reads this anyway - so mostly I don't want to bore me! :) I had surgery a bit ago - the recover was longer than I thought it would be - and so there were a number of good meals that we also said to ourselves - we need to blog about that. But did I? No. I didn't. But I healed and am feeling SO much better. <br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>BY THE WAY. IF you think that your gallbladder might be having issues - don't play with it. AND don't listen to doctors if they give silly advice. I had an ER doctor tell us that he thought I was having panic attacks and needed to see my chiropractor. I'm not kidding... He did! It really messed with me. In the end - the "panic" feeling was from my little organ not working well. So, we removed the organ - and removed the panic attacks - and all the pain! YEAH! I do love my chiropractor's but hey, they can't help an issue like this....</i></blockquote>
<br />
Ok, enough of my ranting. So, we have been on a few days of vacation. I thought I would share them. <br />
<br />
Here is our first day in the Windy City! It held up to it's reputation beautifully. What's on your top ten list of places to visit in Chicago? Mine? Oh - the Art Institute! But, sadly, with two little girls, that didn't make their first choice. Now, normally I'd pull rank and say that I'm leading them to learn and to appreciate the love of art and history and all things worth knowing about. But, they to got to pick where they wanted to go as well.... and we went to.... {hint - it's in the video!}<br />
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Day TWO! My youngest is a girl after my own heart. She loves dinosaurs - and so we had to go visit the best known one around... </div>
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<br />B and MEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15297095004149031631noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-29610231025830541772013-02-13T09:11:00.003-05:002013-02-13T09:55:42.245-05:00Confessions and I NEED MORE COFFEE...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubkW-aeHH_9tF8fNi_aMLuZ6RWmKyK3z97j02jFcJ9-Tr9RlVF7tVBBT6ELsOPTDKGHKyL93PN6bVb7QX0vgJC89GvYG8JnBpyBjG83IGSe7VXt_8dhW1R9oxtCtahk5dIo4E/s1600/IMG_0106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubkW-aeHH_9tF8fNi_aMLuZ6RWmKyK3z97j02jFcJ9-Tr9RlVF7tVBBT6ELsOPTDKGHKyL93PN6bVb7QX0vgJC89GvYG8JnBpyBjG83IGSe7VXt_8dhW1R9oxtCtahk5dIo4E/s320/IMG_0106.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I try to remember her like this when bitty girl {now a HUGE three...sniff} is talking my head off. <br />She was communicating even then.</i> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">This morning I was going to sleep in. Now, sleeping in around here is usually not what most people think of sleeping in. BUT hubby got E up and out the door for school and I was going to sleep. I'm an active person and sometimes my mind is the most active in the middle of the night. Poor Brad - last night I was WIRED. So, finally crashing at the early hours of today I was going to sleep in. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">Little bit didn't get the message. Oops. 7:20 and these are my first thoughts for the morning:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">Mixed blessings... bitty girl wakes up eager to engage the world. Usually happy, singing, and full of life. She's a spark that refuses to not be heard. Mixed blessing - because, the older I get, the LESS I'm like this. I could use a full hour of <i><b>mind numbing staring into nothingness as I urgently sip the dark brew of clarity.</b></i> That's coffee for those of you who somehow missed her addictive qualities. I didn't - I need it to think more than three words or whisper "Mommy's not awake, yet". I need some </span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=115173315210123&extragetparams=%7B%22group_id%22%3A0%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Solomons-Porch-Cafe-Catering/115173315210123?group_id=0" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">Solomon's Porch Cafe & Catering</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"> "Hylander's Cream".</span></blockquote>
I finally crawl out of bed - get her cherrios {Trader Jo's are the BEST EVER} and yogurt and super why. Don't judge. Brew my cup of sanity. <br />
<br />
She comes in. "Mommy, I'm done watching". <br />
<br />
Who do I have to blame? I raised her this way. I didn't want her addicted to media.<br />
<br />
But I didn't think of my own addiction. So, how horrid is it that right now I wish she would watch?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-70427091987666054702013-01-12T23:48:00.002-05:002013-01-13T00:17:19.929-05:00Surreal moments with my children, my chickens, and a warm winter day.<br />
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I had a surreal moment yesterday. It was a simple moment. We were leaving our local grocer after
stopping by for a few items needed for dinner preparation. The girls had climbed into the
car. Brad had walked over from his
office and met us there. I placed
grocery bags in the car and leaned up.
As I did I took a breath.
That’s it. A breath. Suddenly I moved back in time. Two years ago, we stepped out of
full-time vocational ministry - the life we had been living for ten years; the
life I thought we would live for at least fifty more. My heart was broken.
My children were fearful.
But then we took several months to just sit. To be together, to listen to the words of God and to drink
coffee on the back porch of the house that was given to us. We drank and prayed
and cried. It was the most
beautiful time. Time was slow –
our oldest homeschooled for a bit and my baby was still small{ish}. God provided jobs for us and we worked
– but had much time to process and pray.
I began to heal emotionally.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">That was February 2011. This week has been an unusually warm week. As I stood up yesterday the air took me
back. That winter had been
warm. The air was the same. The buildings that have become part of
my normal routine were fresh again.
I remember running into this little grocer and seeing it all with new
eyes. No longer was I in a city
driving back and forth with crowded streets fighting for a parking spot at a
mega store. No, our little town
has one small grocer. His family
works hard to stay open. We try to
help in that area. But it doesn’t
have the selection of a mega store, so we have learned to adapt. After all, sometimes less options are
more when you know the lives being supported behind the scenes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Two years have passed. We now live here – have bought a home here. Currently I hear my rooster, Elvis, crowing on my front porch. He has
been a bit ill and I have been nursing him back to health. His crow-timing is off. It cracks me up that we have a rooster
living in the front yard and sleeping in the guest bathroom. He is a beautiful white silky rooster –
and it broke my heart to find him twisted, head backward one morning. Apparently silkies are susceptible to a
type of vitamin deficiency. We
must have caught it quickly because he is slowly recovering. But now he crows at odd times. Hopefully soon he can move back to the
barn. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The past ten years were delightful and hard. There were times of heartbreak and
times of absolute JOY. I choose to
keep the joy. To keep the hearts
of those close with whom we walked beside. There are many friends, many coworkers, many hearts whom I
miss and love. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The past two years have taught me much. We made the right decision. We all needed healing. My children needed more time with their
family. We needed to listen to God
– and He was gracious. He has
given us time together, provision for our family, some new dreams, and the
continuance of some old dreams.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">More than anything, he is still teaching me that a
vocation is not my calling. My
calling, my direction for my life, is a daily step of obedience. Today I am a mother. My daughter has a school project and I
have the joy of working on it with her!
She feels overwhelmed by it – but I can walk through it with her. Showing her that together we can climb
mountains – overcome high stone walls – seek new adventures. Together our family can run and meet
each overwhelming moment. It
doesn’t matter if it’s my moment or one of the girls’. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">In this I see the heart of God. When I come to him, like a child, overwhelmed by the
project, the decision, or the heart break that I’m feeling, His heart is to
take my hand and say ‘Together, we face this’. Never alone.
Just as I wouldn’t make my daughter face her fears alone, his heart won’t
allow me to face mine alone. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #020f18; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“<i>Weeping may last
for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning</i>.” (Psalm 30:5)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I think that part of the idea behind this iconic verse is
that the lies of night spin a web of emptiness – alone and afraid. Surrounded by no one in a fast void of
nothingness – until the light brings forth reality and truth. That we are only alone in our own decision
to be! That’s never reality. HE is there. He is waiting – to be called upon. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I choose to call.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I choose to not walk alone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I choose to remember my past and rejoice in my future.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I choose life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-55373562135300369852013-01-03T17:41:00.001-05:002013-01-03T22:21:21.797-05:00~Christmas 2012~ <div style="text-align: left;">
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-17067073740810468632013-01-01T23:49:00.001-05:002013-01-01T23:50:22.469-05:00Wisdom for the new year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Happy New Year </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">From our Family to Yours! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>{please click on photo to view}</i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-35739240723166779392013-01-01T23:35:00.002-05:002013-01-01T23:41:28.637-05:00Taos Tortilla Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We had some family in town and needed a good dinner without a whole lot of work - after all who wants to spend the whole time together in the kitchen? What to have? Well - our WHOLE family LOVES tortilla soup. My amazing sister-in-law makes a mean version. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Honestly, when can any family say that every kid and adult actually all like something at the same time? It's like the alighting of some strange planets. But with this soup, it works. I've actually taken several recipes and blended them for this. You can use any chicken that you want - but we prefer to use chicken cooked using this recipe for <a href="http://easleypark.blogspot.com/2012/11/a-year-later-still-cooking.html" target="_blank">SUPER EASY shredded chicken</a></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> , it's also a great way to use left over chicken! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Taos Tortilla Soup</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #2e2e2e; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 whole small diced
onion</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #2e2e2e; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup diced green
bell peppers</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">small amount of oil
{olive oil or coconut}</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 - 32oz box of chicken
broth</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cans of corn(drain)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #2e2e2e; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 (16-ounce) can
pinto beans</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #2e2e2e; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 (16-ounce) can
black beans</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #2e2e2e; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 (4-ounce) can
tomato paste</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 handfulls of chopped
cilantro</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 squeezed lime or
several tablespoons of lime juice</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 can diced tomatoes
(reg size)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 can diced tomatoes w/
chiles (if you can't find the can get another can of diced tomatoes and a can
of diced chiles)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 teaspoons of cumin</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 teaspoons of chile
powder</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 teaspoons of garlic powder</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #2e2e2e; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 package taco
seasoning mix</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #2e2e2e; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Salt and Pepper to
taste</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #2e2e2e; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 (8-ounce) jar
salsa</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #2e2e2e; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">½ of an eight ounce
package cream cheese</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cups of the shredded
chicken</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGblsjKEB8mkrDf3DZVXLCJVqBEwDt-pYFGQBToslA964yDcsYNroE_3LpvBs0QaOZRVEGLfpIimP8L5YE2nW7H40-UILKl_AjDsf1s3RJmD8Qhnld9eAs0sww4tclhSM_4F-i/s1600/1d0ffcce53a811e2bd9022000a1fa522_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGblsjKEB8mkrDf3DZVXLCJVqBEwDt-pYFGQBToslA964yDcsYNroE_3LpvBs0QaOZRVEGLfpIimP8L5YE2nW7H40-UILKl_AjDsf1s3RJmD8Qhnld9eAs0sww4tclhSM_4F-i/s200/1d0ffcce53a811e2bd9022000a1fa522_6.jpg" width="200" /></a><o:p><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Heat large stockpot and add a
couple of tablespoons of oil, then sauté onion and bell pepper until soft. Add all items except cream cheese and
allow to cook together for 20 – 30 min.
Adjust seasonings to taste.
Take some of hot liquid and pour over cream cheese. Melt it down and add back to stock
pot. Adjust liquids as
needed. You may need to add more
if need be. I use a broth base and
water so as to be able to add water as needed. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Serve with shredded chicken,
shredded cheese on top, and of course with tortilla chips! Enjoy! </span> </div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-56248666876172955602012-12-28T20:18:00.000-05:002012-12-28T20:56:02.130-05:00Deliciousness! Frijoles and Sweet Cornbread Recipes<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWjXgdIznayUTyajqPmelfE2W-DIvGG1H4uXJilLdrYmhEKXUA5kf8O1elCmOFI_sd0lIvWqPJkPVVx1ZhHaTQwqNwSK449aiJTboE4dMHSHEgixDYuVgRMg7lOGNMxiZZNmR_/s1600/dinner!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWjXgdIznayUTyajqPmelfE2W-DIvGG1H4uXJilLdrYmhEKXUA5kf8O1elCmOFI_sd0lIvWqPJkPVVx1ZhHaTQwqNwSK449aiJTboE4dMHSHEgixDYuVgRMg7lOGNMxiZZNmR_/s200/dinner!.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tonight we are under a winter snow advisory. As we have lived back in Kentucky for a couple years I am learning something - this is not the same winter weather patterns from when we lived here before! We went to college here years ago - and we remember lot's of heavy snows! The last two winters have really had little or NO snow. Sadly, I am afraid that tonights weather will also show little actual snow. We love snow - and would actually really like to see some! In hopes to encourage the accumulation of our favorite white fluffy frozen precipitation we are having a traditional Northern New Mexico dinner and watching one of our favorite family movies! Hugo! Emi has honestly read the book, no less than five times. If you haven't seen it, it's a beautiful movie and equally interesting for children and adults. OH! With excitement we discovered that one of the main antagonists in Hugo is also in the new movie version of Les Miserables ~ another favorite story of ours. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These two recipes straight out of my Taos, New Mexico home. The beans are how I make them - I'm not quite sure how "true" the recipe is - but they are nummy! {I do have to add that my dear Brad actually did most of the beans tonight - I wasn't 100% today! Good Job Brad!} The corn bread recipe is via my father. It's rather amazing, I have to say! They go well together - but the meal would be all the better with some chili as well. That recipe is for another night! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.5in;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -0.5in;">The beans may be eaten as a bean
soup, used as a side dish, made into refried beans, or added to chili.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.5in;">I like to freeze left over’s to be able
to use in other recipes.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.5in;">Thus this
recipe makes a large amount of beans at one time.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.5in;"> </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Frijoles - Pinto Beans New Mexico Style!</b></span></h3>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">2 pounds of pinto beans</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">10 cups water (or enough to cover over night!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">ham hock or a couple of strips of bacon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">2bay leaves</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">1 diced onion, 3 diced garlic cloves.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Dry garlic powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">1 tablespoon dry leaf oregano</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">1 tsp. whole cumin seed, crushed a bit</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Black pepper to taste</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Several teaspoons of beef base or several cups or beef stock. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">1-2 tablespoons ground chile powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">1 tsp. vinegar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">1/2 tsp. sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">salt</span> </span></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Directions<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Wash and clean beans thoroughly and
then soak them overnight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Rinse the beans well, add enough
water back to cover. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Sauté onion and garlic, add to
beans. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Add bay leaves. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Heat ingredients until they are at
a medium simmer. Simmer for several hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6. Add garlic powder to taste (usually
about a teaspoon), oregano, cumin, peopper, and beef stock. Simmer for several hours until beans are
tender.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7. Add water as needed during this
time. Water should cover the beans. Add Chile powder, vinegar, sugar and salt. Simmer
until beans are thickened and flavor really blends. You can take ½ cup of beans out, mash, and add back into bowl
if need be. This helps to made the
whole dish heartier. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">8. The beans may be eaten as a bean
soup, used as a side dish, made into refried beans, or added to chili. I like to freeze left over’s to be able
to use in other recipes. Thus this
recipe makes a large amount of beans at one time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; text-indent: -0.5in;">JEFF’S FAMOUS NORTEÑO SWEET CORNBREAD</span></h3>
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</div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwdoLlSbizkmXdN608Od9WunSYplaA93Q63JqjuPAc5BsCubTTcnlAQPqaNnCG4YsPQV0AmdUQGhqj4vv_XVLHE1qCawWKOxEKuP1_SqtcmHjgV90e_UFoxLrteJbqKimXAdM/s1600/cornbread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwdoLlSbizkmXdN608Od9WunSYplaA93Q63JqjuPAc5BsCubTTcnlAQPqaNnCG4YsPQV0AmdUQGhqj4vv_XVLHE1qCawWKOxEKuP1_SqtcmHjgV90e_UFoxLrteJbqKimXAdM/s200/cornbread.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Prep<br />Put an 8 to 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven and heat the oven to 400 degrees F.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ingredients<br />Dry:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 – 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 ½ - 2 cups corn meal (use amounts to your taste; the point is to have 4 cups of flour and meal)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">½ cup sugar (or less, if you prefer; we prefer sweet cornbread)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4 teaspoons baking powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 teaspoon salt (or less, if you prefer)</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wet:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cups milk (we prefer low-fat or skim, but you might not)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">½ cup vegetable oil (we prefer canola) (**Meg uses coconut oil)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 eggs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">¼ - ½ cup chopped green chile (to your taste; fresh is best but frozen is fine)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">½ - 1 cup corn kernels (to your taste; fresh is best but frozen is fine)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some fresh, chopped onion can be good</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Take the hot skillet out of the oven, coat it with oil.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mix the dry ingredients.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mix the wet ingredients.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pour the mess into the skillet, put it in the oven.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cook until top is golden brown, or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean—usually about 30 to 45 minutes, mas o menos. I always cut into the middle to see if it’s done because it will be thick and might not be done in the middle. If top is brown before middle is done, wrap foil around the edge of the skillet to decrease browning while middle is baking.</span></li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Makes at least eight servings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">Serve with frijoles, chile, chile stew, soup, stew, or by itself.</span> <span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #666666;"><br /></span></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-33650304230840191802012-12-12T15:04:00.001-05:002012-12-12T15:07:57.090-05:00A few of my favorite things... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRNS7t5pi-koyQ5q5ZcvoQ2YSRvOi4Fagn_DIgsw0_quI-xb9TSvUfc9MXUs8XA5VKbjU7mB4GPDDCl3qMoKvnVRPjTJO6qtVbZRD_ANPv20fXQq-QeXb3OKS7xgHyeomMRKtI/s1600/ChristmasFB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRNS7t5pi-koyQ5q5ZcvoQ2YSRvOi4Fagn_DIgsw0_quI-xb9TSvUfc9MXUs8XA5VKbjU7mB4GPDDCl3qMoKvnVRPjTJO6qtVbZRD_ANPv20fXQq-QeXb3OKS7xgHyeomMRKtI/s400/ChristmasFB.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
1. Warm Nights<br />
2. Peaceful Moments<br />
3. Glowing Twinkle Lights<br />
4. Childlike WonderAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-61818165100299926952012-12-06T21:49:00.001-05:002012-12-06T21:49:32.438-05:00My life, my day, and my amazing dinner.<h3>
<span style="color: #262626; font-size: 13pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Everyone’s life is different. We are all called to different things,
we have different talents, and well – life throws us all different
curveballs! One of my curveballs
is that I have never really been a full-time stay-at-home-mom. I think that <i>I think</i> I would love
it. </span></span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">What I would love is the time to do
all the things I love and want to try.
More crafts with kids, regular dinner’s completely from scratch, and
just more time to sit and read to my kids. Now, don’t get me wrong. I love my life.
I have been so VERY blessed to help provide for my family while doing
things I love to do! From being a barista and learning more than you would ever
want to know about coffee to teaching art {LOVED that one!} and being able to
work from home on graphic design jobs.
My favorite by far is working with Brad in ministry – whatever form that
takes. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Working from home is a blessing – one
that brings with it many challenges.
The funniest to me is that many people don’t seem to think it’s really
“work”. I may have more
flexibility {at times} but I also have to figure out how to watch my sweet
lil’bits while making sure I’m on top of my projects. This has been a learning curve – one that I am blessed to
have had friends help me with! I
have several friends that have been amazing. They give me extra time to
regularly catch up and work on projects.
I also utilize nap time – most of the time. Sometimes utilizing nap times means napping myself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I say all this – to be able to have a
day completely focused on home is a always exciting. Today was just this – I have several projects I’m working
on, but I wanted to just be mom and wife and focus on home today. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Thus said, I decided that it would be
fun to make gingerbread houses with the girls. A bit of research on royal icing {made me thankful for the
ginormus container of meringue powder I bought last year!} and we were off and
running. We will finish decorating
them tomorrow. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHX2ilJo6EM_2RS3V9dPByRjPMGbJbW3GEmcX6DrL8RJmEmtigES8cNaiIViC7SF8kYZ5vz-Q2k-YW-0rnNAkmXlsj587D8izFrl_Q8ZlyUfS3xHhw9nwobc28ePpv8HuYrhd8/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHX2ilJo6EM_2RS3V9dPByRjPMGbJbW3GEmcX6DrL8RJmEmtigES8cNaiIViC7SF8kYZ5vz-Q2k-YW-0rnNAkmXlsj587D8izFrl_Q8ZlyUfS3xHhw9nwobc28ePpv8HuYrhd8/s200/photo.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">But my biggest surprise today was our
dinner. I had found a couple of
recipes that looked promising. I
wanted to add a few things and play with them some – but they looked like good
base recipes. Surprisingly my
family couldn’t stop talking about the chicken! Sometimes I really bomb at dinner – not often – but
sometimes. I like to try new
recipes and well, it’s funny to hear them talk about the ones they remember
really stinking. I’m always glad
when a new recipe doesn’t make that list!
Hopefully you get to try it too!
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<h3>
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><u>Chicken Medallions in Honey Cream
Sauce</u></span></h3>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">4 chicken breast, cut into medallions</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">1 teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">½ teaspoon pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">½ teaspoon dried thyme</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">1 tablespoon butter {or 2 tbsp
coconut oil}</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">1 onion, very finely chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">8 oz sliced mushrooms</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">½ cup dry white wine or 2 tbl wine
vinegar</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">2 cup half and half {or evaporated
milk}</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">2 tablespoons honey</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<h4>
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Directions:</span></h4>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Preheat oven to 375°F</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Mix salt, pepper, and thyme for
sauce. Use more of all three to
liberally season chicken. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">In a skillet, melt butter over
medium-high heat.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Brown chicken medallions, for 2 to 3
minutes.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Turn and brown other side for 2 to 3
minutes.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Transfer chicken into baking dish and
roast in oven for about until well browned.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Heat skillet again, reserving any
butter and brown bits.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Add onion and remaining salt, pepper
and thyme and cook, stirring constantly until onion is softened.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Add wine and bring to a boil,
scraping up any brown bits stuck to pan.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Stir in cream and honey, stirring
often, until sauce is thickened.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Pour sauce over chicken in dish and
roast until chicken finished cooking.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8TYPn9XqLveAgBTYu3P3YeITa3A3tgHwH_Dzb7-9LP5F9Wq_AXjrlGDEbm6dPeKKBfg4-UKFOoA-WNJY4A34Emy5mdxrlFy0hsb1ZeE2001KryQNYitTxV2Vt0WKXhx-7j8d/s1600/photo-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8TYPn9XqLveAgBTYu3P3YeITa3A3tgHwH_Dzb7-9LP5F9Wq_AXjrlGDEbm6dPeKKBfg4-UKFOoA-WNJY4A34Emy5mdxrlFy0hsb1ZeE2001KryQNYitTxV2Vt0WKXhx-7j8d/s200/photo-1.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;"><u>Roasted Pumpkin</u></span></h3>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">1 red onion quartered</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">pumpkin,cut into wedges</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">¼ teaspoon chili flakes</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">½ teaspoon roasted ginger</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">1/8</span><sup style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">th</sup><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;"> cup coconut oil {we
use virgin, unrefined}, melted</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">sea salt, to taste</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">4 tablespoons honey</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">1/3</span><sup style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">rd</sup><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;"> cup red wine vinegar</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<h4>
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Directions:</span></h4>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Preheat oven to 400º</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">In a roasting pan toss together
onion, pumpkin, chili flakes, ginger, oil and sea salt.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Bake 40-50 min or until cooked
through.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Meanwhile bring honey and vinegar to
the boil in a small pan, simmer for 5 minutes.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13pt;">Place roasted pumpkin and onion in a
serving dish, drizzle with honey mixture.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-30193421562922667702012-12-04T15:59:00.001-05:002012-12-04T15:59:32.030-05:00Asking for Grace and Motivation<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpb3a9Aw_LiipzGQAY-ptekcbAHyeTqLII-GjuKqZHjioh_HLBy9hxuqongvQb-Kbwi7mNqo_oMbXh9XULtitcBmHt_0zseLCTmSJtFHBmu8UqJzdwuoD48FxQ7WxJjPu7458G/s1600/Bradyellow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpb3a9Aw_LiipzGQAY-ptekcbAHyeTqLII-GjuKqZHjioh_HLBy9hxuqongvQb-Kbwi7mNqo_oMbXh9XULtitcBmHt_0zseLCTmSJtFHBmu8UqJzdwuoD48FxQ7WxJjPu7458G/s400/Bradyellow.jpg" width="190" /></a>I’m sitting in my completely silent house – which is
surprisingly noisy. There are
these birds outside – loud birds.
Must be hundreds of them – all enjoying this late fall rain. I just finished exercising but I have to admit that I did it
only because Brad asked me to. He
said it would help my day start out on the right foot. He asked me to because I asked him to
ask me. I like to exercise, but I
also find myself distracted with the busyness of my day – kids, food, laundry
– not to mention work, design, editing – all those little things that eat up
a day. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Regardless, I asked him to help me remember this too is
important. And, you know
what? He did. He asked me and so I did – even though {honestly} I
didn’t want to . But who wants to
go back and say, naaa, I just didn’t.
It’s amazing what accountability can do!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Speaking of accountability – I joined an social media
accountability group to help me prioritize eating well, working out, and even
drinking enough water! Sounds
crazy – but as a mere human I find that I do better with accountability. On the other hand I got sick a bit ago
and missed two weeks of the accountability – and with my all or nothing personality
I wanted to quit. I really wanted
to just give up – but I have an amazing husband. He encouraged and also challenged me – and well, I’m back up
on this horse! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I move in various social circles I am amazed to hear a
couple of different things this Holiday season. One is that many people have become more away of the joy in
giving and NOT receiving. Times
when silly Santa gifts were once taken have now changed to times when money is
gathered and sent to such deserving organizations to “buy” gifts for other
people. I have missed much of my
prayer group meetings over the last few months. But this morning I was delighted to find that they had
gathered money to buy chickens and goats for families across the world. What a joy! My father received the gift
of giving rabbit’s and chickens to families across the world from my girls two
Christmases ago. The girls loved
picking out Papa J’s gift and knowing it was helping a special family. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Secondly, I hear people struggling with GRACE. Grace for themselves, grace for
others. Because of the lack of
grace we find disappointment difficult to manage. This seems to compound during the Christmas season. Perhaps it is the busyness and all the
“extras” we are fitting into our already over crowded schedules. We can become bitter, tired, and
angry. We don’t work out of love –
but out of a twisted version of what God wants for us. When I struggle with grace I don’t give
myself the ability to make mistakes and continue on. I get frustrated and quite! What do you do when you find yourself needing grace? I’m not sure why I find it much harder
to have grace for myself than for others.
Regardless, there are times I need to have grace for myself as
well. Brad is amazing at helping
me see this. He helps me see
myself through the eyes of God. Loved
and safe and given permission to make a mistake and keep going. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, although most people don’t discuss exercise and such
until January; I am thinking of it today.
Today is a great day to start taking care of the inner you again. Giving yourself permission to start
over, to have Grace, and to know you are loved. I’m thankful for my husband and my friends who provide
accountability and kindness. So,
here’s to today – a day to work hard and to put other’s first! To find grace for myself, so that I can
find it for others. </div>
<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-30895237788790846682012-12-02T13:59:00.000-05:002012-12-02T14:33:10.671-05:00My thoughts… on tea, cream, and saying good-bye. <span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I’m sipping a cup of tea – “real” tea - freshly brewed
without a bag. I discovered a
while ago that my “extra” French press was excellent for making a nice pot of
tea. So today I came home from church
and wanted a cup of tea, for a couple of reasons. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">First, I drank buckets of coffee this morning. Our church brews Starbucks on Sunday
morning – a delightful thing. For
which I am most thankful. I sit,
cradling my mug – much more able to focus and enjoy the service knowing I’m continually
able to enjoy another freshly brewed sip.
But {more importantly} I am saying good-bye to a sweet friend
today. A kindred tea drinker. Our friendship mostly enjoyed over
creamed tea. I am thankful for this
friendship. </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But this brings me to a rabbit trail. Cream. I love creamed tea.
But, at the moment my tea is floating with bits of flotsam and
jetsam. Ewww. It doesn’t change the taste of the tea
– as long as I don’t look at it! I
brewed a cup of cherry black tea – and then added cream. Forgetting that cherry, even in flavor,
is apparently a FRUIT. Breaking a
cardinal law of tea drinking.
Don’t ever add cream to fruit teas. I promise – you don’t want to try! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ok. Back to my
friend. My friend R and her lovely
family were some of the first to welcome us to Wilmore. She reached out to me and I found
myself discovering a kindred spirit with whom I never actually spent enough
time. We both have children,
school, work, housework, and ministry time – WOW. It seemed as though every couple months I would get to sit
with her for a bit – just enough to realize what I was missing out on. Do you have friendships like this? Bittersweet. Both of us have young daughters. Our youngest girls were not quite the same age and just
couldn’t seem to figure out their friendship so perhaps this made things a bit
more difficult as well.
Regardless, I so enjoyed our moments together – brief and fleeting. Again, I found myself assuming there
would be more. But, I forgot an
important lesson. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This lesson is seen in the lives of Abraham and David, even
Ruth and Jesus. I’m sure each of
them had family that loved them – and assumed there would be more time
together. Each of them had a
community that assumed their time together would naturally happen again. But, each of these men had answered to
God about a calling on their life.
We see God’s words to Abraham echoed again and again throughout the old
and new testament. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Lord had
said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s
family, and go to the land that I will show you.” (Gen 12:1)</span></i></blockquote>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My life for the past 15 years has been much of this “leaving”. I’m used to being the one who
leaves. Isn’t that a strange thing
to say? It’s nothing great about
me – I just want to be obedient. I
want to run and say “YES – CHOOSE ME!
You need a home for that baby? YES! You need someone to help here? YES!” In fact,
I want to say yes so much that sometimes I say yes too much! I am learning that I need to make sure
that request was coming from the heart of God FIRST and before I say yes! Sometimes we are called to be the one
staying and waiting – and working in the mean time! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But, what happens when you are on the other side? What happens when someone else says “Yes”
and they have to leave, to leave you?
To walk ahead and move on in their adventure with God? For me, this is H-A-R-D. I’m not jealous – I am excited for them! I can’t wait to hear about the new
adventures, life, loves, and ministry opportunities they have! What’s hard is this: I had my time with her and let it slip
by. </span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Do you ever do that?
Do you ever find yourself at a crossroads in life and realize that life
moved on – with or without out you? Even with good intentions – and even REAL reasons for being
busy, my heart is heavy. There was
much R taught me about life, God, and ministry – in her quiet sweet way! I wanted to learn more – so sit and
drink tea more. But I can’t change
that – but I can learn from it! </span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">I can learn to not live life expecting another
chance.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">I can learn to listen to the spirit of God on
what is GOOD to say yes to – and not just be busy.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">I can learn to continue to be ready.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">There are days that God asks you to go
– and we must always be ready to say, Yes God! Send me!</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">BUT for now – rejoice with others when
they say yes!</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So, today, as I sip my tea, I am so thankful for social
media and the friends it allows me to keep in touch with. I will hear about her new life, her new
adventure. But I am also thankful
that God is teaching me something new every day – to remember not rush this
Holiday season! There are
people who need you, there are people who God needs to show His love through.
Please allow yourself to be used!
Stop, listen, and say YES to the right things! We can all be busy.
Life is busy. But let’s
make sure it’s the right busy! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrLYk3hiZybXmrmVqwXeVi_TcS0tpbCp6XuqbH1YHg2JDHq_QmapS2pZ7iz2aPPclrb__tBao16ojgiv20VQSS13FXTU2Z6xfxNVOTvzR88AntuflTWt-CiJAoWT9SIPnnPUq/s1600/redcups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrLYk3hiZybXmrmVqwXeVi_TcS0tpbCp6XuqbH1YHg2JDHq_QmapS2pZ7iz2aPPclrb__tBao16ojgiv20VQSS13FXTU2Z6xfxNVOTvzR88AntuflTWt-CiJAoWT9SIPnnPUq/s320/redcups.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-75310600565619413132012-11-30T14:21:00.000-05:002012-11-30T22:44:18.224-05:00Naps, toddlers, and a parental reprieve...<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I've tucked my bitty girl back in for nap time multiple times now. I love that little stinker! I think she's finally relaxed and is nearing sleep. I wish I could relax! I sometimes wish I could read her mind as well. Children are like little puzzles - a temper-tantrum isn't alway {perhaps never really is?} fully JUST acting out. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I believe that most of the time it's a silent message. My girls seem to react negatively in predictable patterns. Many have to do with me. {No pressure there!!} If I'm short, grouchy, "pmsy", tired, irritated, or overall not smooth and gentle than they are more likely to be sensitive and emotional. They feed off of us! So, if I am doing well and they are still sensitive - well, I've still found it to be more than just a case of the crankes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Then, this afternoon, I found this poster! It's amazing! Perhaps it slightly over simplifies our kids. BUT as a whole it's a good reminder that there is more going on than meets the eye. I know that with both my girls - but sometimes I need a reminder. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For your intellectual and viewing enjoyment: {Isn't it beautiful as well!!}</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">{You may need to "click" on it to be able to see the full width}
</span><br />
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/100486635407279934/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="2333" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/upload/84512930479072532_jXNUgaWh_c.jpg" width="554" /></a></div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://www.diaryofafirstchild.com/2012/11/08/how-to-raise-a-child-while-disciplining-less/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">diaryofafirstchild.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/twocups/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Meghann </a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-71329568006539927652012-11-28T23:39:00.000-05:002012-11-28T23:39:10.944-05:00A year later... still cooking! <div>
Well, hello there!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Haven't been around for a while. I miss writing - I miss having an outlet to be snarky, silly, rambling - and well, not really caring who reads because I know my mom will. :) Regardless, I felt like it was time for Easley Park to have an updated look and to be dusted back off. So, here we go. Back to blabber some more! :) </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
What do you write when you are christening a blog update? Especially one that has been coming for - nearly a year? How about food or kids? Which brings me to today. Tonights dinner was a success - or so I considered it. J ate more than three bites on her own {she's over three now - and well, a bit strong willed} {HEY - I'm being nice - remember that I haven't written in a long time?!} Well, I thought I would share my dinner with you. Because - I can't believe how EASY the core part of this is! It's nuts easy.... So here's our dinner - Green Chili Enchiladas! </div>
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There are a number of green chili enchilada recipes floating on pintrest. Most look similar to me - and probably taste similar. Several suggest using a rotisserie chicken. Well, we didn't have one - and living in our tiny town - it's not a five minute drive to go get one. Entering option number TWO! Easy crock pot shredded chicken. This is good for SO many meals. From chicken tacos, to the base for taco soup, to the chicken enchiladas we had tonight! YUM!<br />
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<div>
Here it is: </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Shredded Chicken </b></div>
<div>
<i>{originally for shredded Taco's}</i></div>
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<div>
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOkaJYYPYkKZaziq7A36CP2H7buQEXRxFF1-1iByslgR6bZ-ckIYCXE1mp9xpPhgM1uiO6jmCoJKCbPcdckaeYc-97s8uKHo6LyIuKt-U2lxmD1dMbgfR1DLw3zF2Pjpz9u4a7/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOkaJYYPYkKZaziq7A36CP2H7buQEXRxFF1-1iByslgR6bZ-ckIYCXE1mp9xpPhgM1uiO6jmCoJKCbPcdckaeYc-97s8uKHo6LyIuKt-U2lxmD1dMbgfR1DLw3zF2Pjpz9u4a7/s200/photo.JPG" width="200" /></a>
<li>One pack of chicken</li>
<li>Once jar of Salsa {I usually make my own right before I make this, today I was lazy - it tasted just the same and yummy!} </li>
<li>1/2 pack of taco seasoning. </li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Place Salsa in Crock Pot. Place Chicken on top. Sprinkle taco seasoning over chicken. </li>
<li>Cook on high for around four {4} hours. </li>
<li>It is done when it shreds easily with a fork! Try NOT to eat it from the Crock Pot. </li>
<li><i>(Obligatory warning... Don't be dumb. Raw chicken isn't good for you. It also needs to cook quick enough to NOT spread bacteria. Act responsibly and don't get sick...</i></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
We do this basic recipe regularly! This is the link to the original blog posting about this. {<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/100486635405935283/">http://pinterest.com/pin/100486635405935283/</a>}There is an amazing soup below to use up left over chicken. BUT tonight we wanted enchiladas. Well, over at the Joyful Mama she whips up a mean chicken enchilada. My girls love them - I just like to turn up the heat a little bit more. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Here is the Enchilada Recipe. I made a few adjustments - and am still playing with making it a bit MORE spicy. But right now the kids love it - and so does Brad. </div>
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<b>Chicken Enchilada's</b></div>
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<div class="mobile-photo" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18px;">
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvPMiHsdP138QuUbMGkfawkbIFtkb1MKvfRSiUx4EcUmv0IkBC7y3aumb-AR5ekM63KRQxepUyqG_tclruWVlyk4KAsx7lyd53B9rZKYuix5fotQcYb2zLkVN3c2uwonrZOZoX/s1600/photo-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvPMiHsdP138QuUbMGkfawkbIFtkb1MKvfRSiUx4EcUmv0IkBC7y3aumb-AR5ekM63KRQxepUyqG_tclruWVlyk4KAsx7lyd53B9rZKYuix5fotQcYb2zLkVN3c2uwonrZOZoX/s200/photo-1.JPG" width="200" /></a>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">10 corn taco shells</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2 cups cooked, shredded chicken {I use the above crock pot chicken here!}</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese {OR whichever cheese I have on hand!} </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3 Tbsp. butter</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3 Tbsp. flour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2 cups chicken broth</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 cup sour cream</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 (4 oz) can diced green chillies</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x13 pan</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. Place a bit of chicken and some cheese in each tortilla. Roll up in tortillas and place in pan.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3. In a sauce pan, melt butter, stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Add broth and whisk until smooth. Heat over medium heat until thick and bubbly. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4. Stir in sour cream and chilies. Do not bring to boil, you don't want curdled sour cream.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">5. Pour over enchiladas and top with remaining cheese.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">6. Bake 22 min and then under high broil for 3 min to brown the cheese.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">7. Top with chopped tomatoes. </span></div>
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<div>
Much thanks to the Joyfull-Momma's Blog for this yummy dish! Here is the original blog posting: <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/100486635407265051/">http://pinterest.com/pin/100486635407265051/</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-36606894380280442702012-11-19T11:55:00.001-05:002012-11-19T11:55:13.683-05:00Meg and Brad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_QszMpZwBvE/UKpeLwNatPI/AAAAAAAAAGU/rmpwLsTmOTg/s1600/easley-2012-38-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_QszMpZwBvE/UKpeLwNatPI/AAAAAAAAAGU/rmpwLsTmOTg/s400/easley-2012-38-Edit.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-74937269088652974952011-05-26T21:06:00.000-04:002012-11-18T20:40:30.736-05:00Meg and Martha<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">This week I decided we HAD to get back into our meal planning, both with deciding in advance what we were going to eat, as well as planning to shop for it. Having moved back to my second favorite small town - Wilmore, Kentucky (Taos has to come first....) - there are a FEW drawbacks. First, you can't run to your (not so favorite but still a huge convenience) superstore for a few items to throw together for dinner. Nor can you run for other needs. Nope, you have to plan - and of course </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">me planning means intentionally buying locally - but other things you just have to get elsewhere.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRK8L02uZ0qs15RXBt7nnrS_EPXNUEzokcPZiuQy8GBJAszjvfGskK3tyAqNiPtB6OrOJiipVD0CGpbPkU5QLyzFbg780Vd0ykpkztD07gRcgl9S2InAw3Kalxack-2wSvnmIa6A/s320/Martha.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611204598960573554" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Ok, so back to my dinner. Part of my inspiration was an idea I had! I was given this beautiful cookbook for Christmas (</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">YE</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">P, tha</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">t long ago!) and hadn't ever had time to read it. It got packed when we move</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">d (errrr early Febr</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">uary - oh yeah - my last blog date here too!) and it just got unpacked! It was like Christmas all over again! The title is "<i><b>Martha Stewar</b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><i><b>t's Dinner at Home</b></i>" - and it has 52 delicious meals planned - including dessert. Which my poor little family complains they don't get enough of.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">SO - tonight we started - once (or twice if I am inspired!) a week we will eat with Martha. I will stick as closely to her cookbook as possible and try new things. It's not the Joy of Eating - nor is it Julia Childs - but I do love Martha and parts of it are very different from our normal fair. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">{JUST TO WARN YOU, I had to change menu 1 just a bit.... I couldn't find a reasonable priced lamb}</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b>Menu 1.</b></span></span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">Baby Lamb Chops with Lemon Strips</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">Asparagus with Aioli</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">Quinoa, Pea, and Mint Salad</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; ">Vanilla-Poached Rhubarb</span></li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Ok, so I had to sub out the lamb. Instead we decided to use a bustameal.com recipe - </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 23px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b>Pork Medallions With Apricot-Orange Sauce</b>. It had great reviews and tasted GREAT! We agree, it was very nice.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 23px; font-family:veranda, arial, sans-serif;font-size:18px;"> </span> </div><div><br /></div><div>I am feeding not only two adults, but one eight year old who although loves vegitables, doesn't like meat. I am also feeding a two year old that hates all vegetables {except winter squashes and peas - usually uncooked}. So, as you can see, I never have a HIT all at once.</div><div><br /></div><div>Until tonight! I couldn't believe it. Everyone enjoyed this meal. The huge hit of the night for J and myself was the Quinoa, pea, and mint salad. The last time I tried to cook quinoa it was a flop. Tasted horrid - flat and odd. Perhaps I shouldn't have waited to try again! This was delicious. </div><div><br /></div><div>The Asparagus recipe called for a nice poaching, but we all prefer to have it oven roasted. So I again veered and roasted. The aioli sauce was a hit - and it's subtle garlic flavor enhanced the asparagus in such a way that little E ate four servings! Sweet girl. </div><div><br /></div><div>Brad was in charge of cooking the pork medallions. Such a surprising flavor. They were pan seared and then cooked down with slivered onions and sliced dried apricots. There was nothing of the gooey sweetness that is often added by apricot preserves being spooned over dry meat. This was exceptionally delish! Of course, Brad is rather talented when it comes to cooking meat. I tend to be like E and love the veggies more. But, over ten years of marriage to my carnivore, I have come to love some delicately cooked steak or tenderloin! </div><div><br /></div><div>It was very a delight to have my first meal with Martha a success. I felt a tad sad to have left behind her beautiful baby lamb. But, I do want to make this idea "do-able" for my self and the family. If you are interested in the meals they are found in the book Martha Stewart's Dinner at Home or also found on the following links.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, the girls are in bed. I have a cup of decaffeinated hazelnut coffee here, and another <a href="http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/mystery/index.html">Masterpiece Mystery</a> to finish with my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bleasley"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC0000;">love</span></b></span></a>. Oh, and we haven't had our dessert yet! {He just started on it, stating - "mmm mmm mmm, that's so good"! } Hope you decide to try rhubarb sometime, it's our new spring happiness! </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div>{I have included the Pork Medallions recipe, it's not available in Martha's cookbook but it available at <a href="http://bust-a-meal.com/">Bust-a-meal</a>. I use this program for meal planning - we love it!}</div><div><span><span><br /><b>{Pork Medallions With Apricot-Orange Sauce}</b></span></span></div><div><span><span>1 tablespoon olive oil, divided<br />1 (1-pound) pork tenderloin, cut into 8 (1-inch-thick) slices<br />1/2 teaspoon salt<br />1/4 teaspoon black pepper<br />1 cup thinly sliced onion<br />1/2 cup dried apricots, sliced<br />1/2 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth<br />2 tablespoons fresh orange juice<br />2 teaspoons minced garlic<br />1/8 teaspoon black pepper<br />1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley</span></span></div><div><span><span><br /></span></span></div><div><ol><li>Mince garlic</li><li>Thinly slice onions</li><li>Chop parsley</li><li>Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.</li><li>Sprinkle pork evenly with salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.</li><li>Add pork to pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until browned.</li><li>Remove from pan; keep warm.Heat remaining 1 teaspoon oil in pan.</li><li>Add onion to pan; sauté 3 minutes or until tender.</li><li>Stir in sliced apricots, broth, juice, garlic, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper; bring to a boil.</li><li>Cook 2 minutes or until slightly thickened.</li><li>Remove from heat; stir in parsley.</li><li>Serve sauce with pork.</li></ol></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-1419084581355719982011-03-14T23:14:00.000-04:002012-11-18T20:40:30.705-05:00Waiting....<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Find me in the river</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Find me on my knees</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">I've walked against the water</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Now I'm waiting if you please</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">We've longed to see the roses</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">But never felt the thorns</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">And bought our pretty crowns</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">But never paid the price</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Find me in the river</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Find me there</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Find me on my knees with my soul laid bare</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Even though you're gone and I'm cracked and dry</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Find me in the river, I'm waiting here</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Find me in the river</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Find me on my knees</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">I've walked against the water</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Now I'm waiting if you please</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">We didn't count on suffering</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">We didn't count on pain</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">But if the blessing's in the valley</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Then in the river I will wait</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">The last number of weeks we have been at several different churches. As a pastoral family we enjoy visiting and seeing how others "do" church. New ideas, new excitement, new friends - it's all new and usually very interesting. Every week has been a touch from God on my (Meg's) life. As I have encountered people, pastors, and worship moments I have heard God calling my name. Calling me to lean forward - to reach out - and to not allow human emotion overcome my knowledge of HIM! </span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">I'm not going to tell stories - to lie. </span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">I've been struggling. I never have done well with change (not initiated by me?!). I like routine - as long as I set it. And who am I kidding - I love leading - following has taken years to even begin learning. Submission and Obedience were taught from infant-hood, and honestly, I fought them most of my years. But God didn't give up. (OR my parents!) He has taught me to lean into him - to submit to him, to my Husband, to my calling.</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">But it still isn't always easy.</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">I am excited to be where I am. But I morn what could have been. The calling I feel and felt. The pain and sorrow of lives, friendships, and memories left behind. Most of all, I fight an internal battle.</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;">One that speaks of a desire for life to be fair - which my father always reminded me was never promised. Of a world that my daughters grow up with friends and love and security offered by more than their parents. </span></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;">Regardless, life was never promised to be fair. And I wasn't told that I would get to live on the mountain top - physically, spiritually, or emotionally. BUT it's what I do in the valley - I think is a huge lesson.</span></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;">So, I sing this song - if I am waiting - in the valley as of late. You are more than welcome to join me - in the river. For out of it flows life.....</span></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span>B and MEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15297095004149031631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-62141009789025446162011-02-07T00:07:00.000-05:002012-11-18T20:40:30.733-05:00Little Boxes, Full of Ticky Tack<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">It feels like we have been packing for months, but it’s only really two weeks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Two weeks, you say? That’s what we say, too! It has never taken us THIS long to pack up our home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But, on the other hand, usually it seemed a little more cut and dry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Two enormous PODS occupy our driveway, crowding out the humble minivan like a bully on the playground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Today, a 12’ U-Haul trailer joined the gang.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Aforementioned minivan has now been banished to the neighbor’s driveway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">There’s something cathartic about packing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It gives us an opportunity to clean house, purge the closets, rid our life of rubbish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Reminds me of the saying, “You never see a hearse pulling a U-Haul.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Jesus said “Store up treasures in heaven.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I wonder what he would say about our piles of treasure in my driveway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sigh…..</p> <p class="MsoNormal">On a brighter note, we have been so very blessed to have many people drop by and interrupt our packing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Do we mind?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>NOT AT ALL!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We have loved each visit!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>To sit and connect, drink some coffee, and perhaps pray together has created some memories that will be treasured for years to come.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">We’ve parted ways with our Lakewood church family, but I’m reminded that God’s church is not confined to mere walls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The body of Christ is a dynamic organism.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The Bride is created not by man through buildings or organizations, but a common heart (and spirit) being thread through each of us, men and women, boys and girls who have realized that Christ took our place on that cross of death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Without that exchange, I would forever be caught in my own darkness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>On my own, all I can do is stand in His way!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>That’s a learning process; sometimes much of me tries to jump back in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But the older I grow in my walk, the less I need to be seen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Obedience is everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I want Jesus to be seen – not Meghann!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">So, however long it takes us to pack, wherever the road leads, so be it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>“To everything there is a season..”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Our season in SWLA has come to an end, but a new season begins!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>For those of you living in the central KY area, we’re so excited to see you again, and join you in building God’s kingdom!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>God has already given us some exciting dreams we want to share in the weeks to come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Thanks for your love, prayers, and support.</p><p class="MsoNormal">The Easleys</p> <!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-9438157382987802632011-01-23T23:31:00.000-05:002012-11-18T20:40:30.751-05:00New Year, New Adventures!! An Update from the Easleys<!--StartFragment--> <br /><div class="MsoNormal">It’s Sunday afternoon, January 23. We’ve just finished up our last Sunday in pastoral ministry at Lakewood Bible Fellowship. In the days to come, Brad will also transition out of his role of academy principal. Meg, the school art teacher, has finished up her classes this past week.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">We've been at Lakewood since 2007, and made the decision to resign after several weeks of praying and thinking, and asking three key questions:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -22.0pt;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span>What is best for the Easleys?<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -22.0pt;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span>What is best for Lakewood?<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -22.0pt;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span>What new opportunities has God opened up for us in recent months?<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>What is best for the Easleys?</b> As our family grows, so do the ministry demands we feel upon us. This is our tenth year of ministry (and marriage!) and there are days we definitely feel the mileage! We want our girls to see ministry as a calling, a privilege, a life worth pursuing, and to do so, we are careful to ensure that vocational ministry leaves a pleasing taste in their mouths. So, sometimes, taking a break to clear the cobwebs can be the best thing for a family. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>What is best for Lakewood?</b> We’ve come to love the people of Lakewood – both church and school – and have delighted in being a part of Lakewood's ministry. We have done our best to lead, to challenge, to help grow. The church and school have faced difficult changes in recent years, changes that have taken its toll on both leadership and members alike. Ultimately, we recognize that we are but one tool among many that God uses to build His church. “To everything there is a season…” and the last thing we want us to stay here beyond our season. What’s best for Lakewood is fresh leadership who can help her move to the next level.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>What new opportunities has God opened for us?</b> Well, the first opportunity is a trans-state relocation to to central Kentucky. This is where we met and courted, and have always dreamed of returning to! While in Kentucky, we have several exciting options we’ll share about in upcoming posts (sshhh …. its a secret!) </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Finally, some exciting news! </b>On Friday, January 14th, 2011, we finalized our adoption of Josanna Lynn! She's been a part of our family since her birth on March 22, 2009, and (to understate things) has more energy than a supernova with a sugar high. She's a delight beyond words (as is her sister, Emma) and we're amazed at how God brought her to our family! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div><!--EndFragment-->B and MEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15297095004149031631noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-34816767363409684922010-06-15T13:33:00.000-04:002012-11-18T20:40:30.720-05:00Walking in Obedience.When writing I usually start with the title = it gives me a launching point. Today I don't have a title to start with - I hope it comes as I write! I suppose that's because I don't really have a launching off point. It's been almost six months since my last update. I am surprised because it really feels like yesterday and about a year ago at the same time! Here's an update as to what has gone on for us -<br /><br />1. My lungs stayed in my body - I got med's. (God is GOOD!)<br />2. B caught my illness (God is GOOD!)<br />3. He almost died. (HONEST) (God is GOOD!)<br />4. We accrued about a half million dollar medical bill - bills (God is GOOD!)<br />5. God covered it all! (see? God is GOOD!)<br />6. J has been sick - lot's too - (6 ear infections during these months) having tubes put in tomorrow. (God is GOOD!)<br />7. B and M worked threeeeee (3) full time jobs for 6 months. (God is GOOD!)<br />7.1 J stayed with B and M as they worked the jobs. (God is GOOD!)<br />7.2 J got very very tired of pack'n'plays, walkers, and high chairs. Finally she revolted. (God is GOOD!)<br />8. M burneed out. (God is GOOD!)<br />9. B got sick - again. (God is GOOD!)<br />10. We got him med's faster than fast. (God is GOOD!)<br />11. He is doing better. (God is GOOD!)<br /><br />There you go. That's the summery summery - God is GOOD. E did great - considering - it was a rough semester for everyone. Especially the kids. Not having family close isn't easy during these times - Grandparents and family help to smooth lot's of hurt. Especially if your under 150 years old. Luckily for us - our family made lot's of efforts to come see us in the last couple months - like I said - that smooths lot's of hurts!<br /><br />I try to stay on our family as a topic around here - no need to go into details about other stuff. We are doing lot's of praying right now. LOTS! God is so very GOOD and he never never never takes us through rough waters without a reason - perhaps it's not my reason - perhaps it's not my desire. But he didn't ask - he created me and provides for me. I wait. wait. wait. And while I wait - he provides in so many ways -<br /><br />1. Friends and friends who love.<br />2. Friends who support and reach out.<br />3. Friends who DON'T attack but encourage.<br />4. Family who will come and hug you when you need it.<br />5. Friends who take a kid when you need to breath for a moment.<br />6. A network of friends who pray for me = us.<br />7. We are not alone! Regardless of what our mind may tell us - we live in a world based on TRUTH not emotions. Thank goodness! Jesus is our truth - and our rock. We cling - we wait. We ask - seek - and FIND!<br /><br />J is walking - well, nearly running - she is an amazing child - all over the place and except for a moment (several weeks!!!) of major reaction to two different antibiotics and then the steroids to help that (wowowowowowow) (her dear Aunt L renamed her for that time....) she refuses to be grouchy the whole time she feelt poorly. She is honestly the most content baby I have EVER met. Lucky ME!<br /><br />E is growing like a weed - went through her cloths for summer and was SHOCKED to see how much she had grown! Had to recreate a whole new wardrobe. We enjoyed that! :) Her heart toward God and others is so sweet to see taking shape. She tries so hard to not upset or do wrong - in fact, so hard that sometimes she lies to help us not get upset with her - we are working with her on that....<br /><br />B is getting well - again. Worried me (until God reminded me NOT to do that!) that he would get bronchitis again so soon after his last illness. The dr's took it VERY seriously and immediately put him on heavy med's to knock it out of the park! It seems to be working!!! He is busy praying and planning - and seeking God's wisdom.<br /><br />SIDENOTE - Are we not glad that we don't have to seek our own wisdom and that age has NOTHING to do with that? Now, if we are wise, we will accrue wisdom as we grow - but there are plenty of people who seem to have FORGOTTEN to do that as they aged. Spiritual maturity has nothing to do with age - and it's so sad. God wants us to learn as we grow - and if we as (30 somethings) can realize we have LOT'S of growing to do - than why can't those physically older than us have already realized that they are still growing too? The bible says not to despise our youth - so we push on! God reminding me through B that we are his anointed - (we are ALL his anointed!) and that we are exactly where God wants us to be. Can you say that about your life today? Are you exactly where God wants you? IF NOT - seek and MOVE! There is nothing like knowing that you are all God is calling you to be today!<br /><br />M - well, I'm here! I have wanted to write for a long time. But sometimes, writing is not quite the right thing to do! There are times that there are things better left unsaid. Better left unfelt too if you ask me! But I didn't get asked - so I wait on GOD - not MAN! I have to say, that God has been working overtime to encourage me lately. From friends with kind words - to books that give such insight - to even being offered a few jobs that although it's not the right time to take them - it was such a self esteem booster to be asked!!! Do you know what I mean? Sometimes - as a sahm (stay-at-home-mom) (well - if you read earlier - I have been that and more recently!!!) one can begin to feel that the world forgot that you too went to college. You too were trained - and you too have held some jobs that were more than starter positions! It can sometimes feel (like when pre-admitting your baby for eartubes at the hospital and they comment that all you do is stay home?!!!!) that you got lost in the shuffle! Not that is has been a CHOICE for your FAMILY! ha! Well - we gals know that we chooooose this and that we could be working - if we were called to do that! God is GOOD! It's not on man's approval that we base our actions - but on obedience to our LORD.<br /><br />PS. My daddy taught me years ago that obedience means -<br />"Doing what you are told to do, when you are told to do it, with the right heart attitude".<br /><br />IF you don't do all three - than you are not truly obedient.<br /><br />Well, we are called to be obedient to God, to those in authority over us, and to our spiritual leaders. It is such a FREEDOM to walk in obedience! For my girls - I see them grow and find joy in the safety of their obedience - and for me and B - I see the same as we walk in God's hands!<br /><br />Are you obedient today? Oh! I think I have found my title!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8985731.post-53605787089586824162010-06-15T12:54:00.003-04:002010-06-15T13:31:57.842-04:00Walking in Obedience.When writing I usually start with the title = it gives me a launching point. Today I don't have a title to start with - I hope it comes as I write! I suppose that's because I don't really have a launching off point. It's been almost six months since my last update. I am surprised because it really feels like yesterday and about a year ago at the same time! Here's an update as to what has gone on for us -<br /><br />1. My lungs stayed in my body - I got med's. (God is GOOD!)<br />2. B caught my illness (God is GOOD!)<br />3. He almost died. (HONEST) (God is GOOD!)<br />4. We accrued about a half million dollar medical bill - bills (God is GOOD!)<br />5. God covered it all! (see? God is GOOD!)<br />6. J has been sick - lot's too - (6 ear infections during these months) having tubes put in tomorrow. (God is GOOD!)<br />7. B and M worked threeeeee (3) full time jobs for 6 months. (God is GOOD!)<br />7.1 J stayed with B and M as they worked the jobs. (God is GOOD!)<br />7.2 J got very very tired of pack'n'plays, walkers, and high chairs. Finally she revolted. (God is GOOD!)<br />8. M burneed out. (God is GOOD!)<br />9. B got sick - again. (God is GOOD!)<br />10. We got him med's faster than fast. (God is GOOD!)<br />11. He is doing better. (God is GOOD!)<br /><br />There you go. That's the summery summery - God is GOOD. E did great - considering - it was a rough semester for everyone. Especially the kids. Not having family close isn't easy during these times - Grandparents and family help to smooth lot's of hurt. Especially if your under 150 years old. Luckily for us - our family made lot's of efforts to come see us in the last couple months - like I said - that smooths lot's of hurts!<br /><br />I try to stay on our family as a topic around here - no need to go into details about other stuff. We are doing lot's of praying right now. LOTS! God is so very GOOD and he never never never takes us through rough waters without a reason - perhaps it's not my reason - perhaps it's not my desire. But he didn't ask - he created me and provides for me. I wait. wait. wait. And while I wait - he provides in so many ways -<br /><br />1. Friends and friends who love.<br />2. Friends who support and reach out.<br />3. Friends who DON'T attack but encourage.<br />4. Family who will come and hug you when you need it.<br />5. Friends who take a kid when you need to breath for a moment.<br />6. A network of friends who pray for me = us.<br />7. We are not alone! Regardless of what our mind may tell us - we live in a world based on TRUTH not emotions. Thank goodness! Jesus is our truth - and our rock. We cling - we wait. We ask - seek - and FIND!<br /><br />J is walking - well, nearly running - she is an amazing child - all over the place and except for a moment (several weeks!!!) of major reaction to two different antibiotics and then the steroids to help that (wowowowowowow) (her dear Aunt L renamed her for that time....) she refuses to be grouchy the whole time she feelt poorly. She is honestly the most content baby I have EVER met. Lucky ME!<br /><br />E is growing like a weed - went through her cloths for summer and was SHOCKED to see how much she had grown! Had to recreate a whole new wardrobe. We enjoyed that! :) Her heart toward God and others is so sweet to see taking shape. She tries so hard to not upset or do wrong - in fact, so hard that sometimes she lies to help us not get upset with her - we are working with her on that....<br /><br />B is getting well - again. Worried me (until God reminded me NOT to do that!) that he would get bronchitis again so soon after his last illness. The dr's took it VERY seriously and immediately put him on heavy med's to knock it out of the park! It seems to be working!!! He is busy praying and planning - and seeking God's wisdom. <br /><br />SIDENOTE - Are we not glad that we don't have to seek our own wisdom and that age has NOTHING to do with that? Now, if we are wise, we will accrue wisdom as we grow - but there are plenty of people who seem to have FORGOTTEN to do that as they aged. Spiritual maturity has nothing to do with age - and it's so sad. God wants us to learn as we grow - and if we as (30 somethings) can realize we have LOT'S of growing to do - than why can't those physically older than us have already realized that they are still growing too? The bible says not to despise our youth - so we push on! God reminding me through B that we are his anointed - (we are ALL his anointed!) and that we are exactly where God wants us to be. Can you say that about your life today? Are you exactly where God wants you? IF NOT - seek and MOVE! There is nothing like knowing that you are all God is calling you to be today!<br /><br />M - well, I'm here! I have wanted to write for a long time. But sometimes, writing is not quite the right thing to do! There are times that there are things better left unsaid. Better left unfelt too if you ask me! But I didn't get asked - so I wait on GOD - not MAN! I have to say, that God has been working overtime to encourage me lately. From friends with kind words - to books that give such insight - to even being offered a few jobs that although it's not the right time to take them - it was such a self esteem booster to be asked!!! Do you know what I mean? Sometimes - as a sahm (stay-at-home-mom) (well - if you read earlier - I have been that and more recently!!!) one can begin to feel that the world forgot that you too went to college. You too were trained - and you too have held some jobs that were more than starter positions! It can sometimes feel (like when pre-admitting your baby for eartubes at the hospital and they comment that all you do is stay home?!!!!) that you got lost in the shuffle! Not that is has been a CHOICE for your FAMILY! ha! Well - we gals know that we chooooose this and that we could be working - if we were called to do that! God is GOOD! It's not on man's approval that we base our actions - but on obedience to our LORD.<br /><br />PS. My daddy taught me years ago that obedience means -<br />"Doing what you are told to do, when you are told to do it, with the right heart attitude". <br /><br />IF you don't do all three - than you are not truly obedient.<br /><br />Well, we are called to be obedient to God, to those in authority over us, and to our spiritual leaders. It is such a FREEDOM to walk in obedience! For my girls - I see them grow and find joy in the safety of their obedience - and for me and B - I see the same as we walk in God's hands!<br /><br />Are you obedient today? Oh! I think I have found my title!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16990092260428107407noreply@blogger.com0