Lavender, Lace and Thyme

Pumpkin Crunch Cake

2011-09-14T22:31:00.000-05:00

What should I cook for 20 people next week? I swiveled my chair around and said "turkey breast is on sale" the high today in Minnesota was in the middle 50's. It's September 14th with a freeze warning tonight!

What should I make for dessert? Pumpkin crunch cake of course, Please bring me the recipe. Sure I said, I know I have it on my blog. Well I thought I did, but alas I couldn't find it so here it is.

Pumpkin Layer
2 15 oz cans pumpkin puree

1 12-ounce can evaporated milk

4 eggs

1 1/2 cups white sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ginger

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

1 teaspoon salt

Crunch Topping

1 box yellow cake mix

1 cup butter, melted

1 cup pecans, chopped (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Combine the pumpkin, eggs, evaporated milk, sugar, spices, and salt. Mix well as if you were making pumpkin pie, pour this mixture into the prepared pan.

Sprinkle the DRY cake mix over the top of the pumpkin mixture. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the cake mix. Then drizzle the melted butter over the top. Bake for 50 minutes or until top is golden brown. Serve with whipped topping or cinnamon ice cream if desired.

I've thought a lot about my blog lately, why I started it, my family the friends I've made along the way. My thoughts and prayers are with each one of you to this day. I have missed you and hope to catch up from time to time.

Be Blessed & Enjoy!
Kathi :)

Fall

2009-09-24T07:43:00.005-05:00

I have missed you so much! I've thought about you and prayed for you all summer long....

It's hard to believe how fast the summer has gone by, the only evidence of fall I see here in Minnesota is a few falling leaves outside my window...the temperatures have been well above normal but that is about to change...so the weather man is telling me :)

So what have I been doing you may be wondering....digital scrapping! The picture above is my proof :)

I look forward to catching up with you!

Hugs,
Kathi :)

Mrs. Always Right

2009-08-06T18:54:00.009-05:00

Sister Kristi AKA Mrs. Always Right!

Recently, I was visiting Pennsylvania with some family members. This is one of my favorite pictures from our trip!

I am keeping very busy with work and visits this summer. I am thinking of you and keeping you close to my heart and prayers.

Hugs,

Kathi :)

Chocolate Eclair Cake

2009-07-20T19:40:00.008-05:00

This is my George's favorite dessert his Mother makes. It's very simple and delicious!

I have been so busy this summer! I find my days slipping by me so quickly. I think about each one of you and keep you close in my heart and prayers. It's been difficult deciding if I should blog or get things done :). I do try to stop by for visits when I can. Please know how much I care about each one of you!

Enjoy!
Kathi :)

Chocolate Éclair Cake

1- 1 lb box graham crackers

2 small packages french vanilla pudding

3 cups milk

8 oz carton cool whip

1 can chocolate frosting

On the bottom of a 13 by 9 inch pan line with whole graham crackers. Mix the pudding and milk with an electric mixer, beat at medium speed for about 2 minutes. Fold in the whipped topping. Pour half the pudding mixture over the bottom layer of graham crackers. Place another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding mixture. Pour the remaining half of pudding mixture on top of the layer of graham crackers, then cover with a final layer of graham crackers. Frost the top with the can of chocolate frosting. Refrigerate for 24 hours and serve :)

Smore S'mores Please!

2009-07-08T08:35:00.023-05:00

Hershey's S'mores Sandwich Bar Cookies

I grew up camping and making s'mores. This morning I thought I'd peruse google to see what kind of pictures I could find. My Mother-In-Law makes wonderful brownie s'mores but I'd have to make them to show you, I will share at another time :)

Hershey had the above wonderful looking recipe, you can click on the link above to get the recipe.

Then I found these num-a-nums!

A young woman named Jaime at her blog Sophistimom
made these wonderful looking bars.

The following is from Jaime's blog!

These are the classic magic bars my mom used to make with a recipe she got from a can of condensed milk (I think it was Borden’s brand). With the graham crackers and chocolate, it always seemed obvious to vary the recipe to be like s’mores by replacing the coconut with mini marshmallows. But I’ll warn you — they’re very sweet. I usually make half the pan with 1 cup of marshmallows (which the kids prefer), and the other half of the pan with 1 cup of coconut (for the grown-ups).

magic s’mores bars

10 ounces (300g) graham crackers (18 whole crackers, or two cellophane wrapped stacks)
1 1/2 sticks (12 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
1 pinch of kosher salt
1 14 ounce can (400g) sweetened condensed milk
1 1/2 cups (250g) semisweet chocolate chips
2 cups (I have no idea how much they weigh—just throw a couple of handfuls on!) mini marshmallows

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees (180 degrees Celsius). In a large resealable bag (or in a food processor), smash graham crackers until finely ground. Stir in melted butter and salt. Press into a 13×9″ pan. Bake for 5 minutes. Remove from oven.
2. Sprinkle on chocolate chips. Drizzle can of condensed milk over graham crackers; follow with marshmallows.
3. Bake for 20 minutes more, until marshmallows are lightly browned. Let cool completely. I usually put mine in the freezer to make it go faster.

share and enjoy

Thanks Jaime for sharing you loved family recipe!

But wait...there's smore!

A college gal named Kim from Lovin From The Oven
made these nummies!

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups all purpose flour
3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
2 king-sized milk chocolate bars (e.g. Hershey’s)
1 1/2 cups marshmallow creme/fluff (not melted marshmallows)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light. Beat in egg and vanilla. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder and salt. Add to butter mixture and mix at a low speed until combined.
Divide dough in half and press half of dough into an even layer on the bottom of the prepared pan. Place chocolate bars over dough. 2 king-sized Hershey’s bars should fit perfectly side by side, but break the chocolate (if necessary) to get it to fit in a single layer no more than 1/4 inch thick. Spread chocolate with marshmallow creme or fluff. Place remaining dough in a single layer on top of the fluff (most easily achieved by flattening the dough into small shingles and laying them together).
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until lightly browned. Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Makes 16 cookie bars.
Thank you Kim!

I hope you find time to visit each one of the above blogs, they have so much more to share!

Now that I've spent all my bloggie time gazing and sharing recipes I must get ready for work. I have missed each one of you and look forward to catching up with you!

Hugs,
Kathi :)

Independence Day

2009-07-02T09:45:00.011-05:00

In 1777, thirteen gunshots were fired, once at morning and again as evening fell, on July 4 in Bristo, Rhode Island. Philadelphia celebrated the first anniversary in a manner a modern American would find quite familiar: an official dinner for the Continental Congress, toasts, 13-gun salutes, speeches, prayers, music, parades, troop reviews, and fireworks.

wikipedia.org

From the American Revolution to 2009, Independence Day represents our countries struggles and accomplishments.

A special thank you to the men and women who have served our country to help make it what it is today.

How proud and Blessesd I am to be an American!
Kathi :)

Laughs

2009-06-16T07:38:00.001-05:00

Hoping your day is filled with fun and laughter!

Kathi :)

Patience

2009-06-14T07:38:00.014-05:00

When everything is going our way, patience is easily achieved....

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. Colossians 1:9-12

May your week be filled with patience

Blessings,
Kathi :)

Click on the picture for more Spiritual Sundays

Summer & Salads

2009-06-10T08:18:00.010-05:00

Doesn't this look like summer?

As I age, things tend to take longer to complete :)

Broccoli Salad
3 heads of broccoli, trimmed and divided into bite-size pieces
1 small red onion, small dice
6 slices bacon, fried and crumbled
1/2 cup cashews, pecans or sunflower seeds- roughly chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsps sugar
4 tbsps vinegar

I hope you are having a wonderful summer filled with much fun!
I think of you all the time and miss you terribly!
I hope to get back in the swing of things soon!

Kathi :)

Thinking

2009-05-26T06:17:00.002-05:00

Thinking of you!
Kathi :)

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T07:13:00.013-05:00

I am blessed to be able to celebrate my Mother.

Mother's Day and Carnations have had an association for a very long time because according to a Christian legend, this is the plant that sprung up when Jesus Christ's mother Mary shed tears of distress seeing her son enduring sufferings on the cross.

Anna Jarvis, in 1907, chose a carnation as the emblem of Mother's Day. Anna Jarvis distributed carnations in St. Andrew's Methodist Episcopal church in West Virginia. The white carnation is thought to be ideal for Mother's Day because according to Jarvis, whiteness stood for qualities like purity, faithfulness, fragrance, and love.

White carnations are associated with the sad feeling of mother being absent, either due to death or due to the distance that separates the mother and the child. Pink carnations symbolize the feelings of affection for a mother who is alive.

Happy Mother's Day!
Kathi

National Day Of Prayer

2009-05-07T09:33:00.004-05:00

President George Washington

National Day Of Prayer
58th Annual Observance
Thursday, May 7, 2009

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

Praying you take time to pray today!
Blessings,
Kathi :)

Garage Sales

2009-05-06T07:27:00.015-05:00

Work, spring and garage sales are getting in the way!

I had to take a break from it all to attend several garage sales :)....I'm trying to be selective in what I purchase this year, this beautiful bench with storage is my big find! The young man at the sale told me it was his grandfathers, he kept it in his front foyer he shared with me. As the young man carried it to my car he shared how he had thought about taking it home, he seemed a little sad to be parting with it. I assured him it would be well taken care of at my home. My little bench is waiting for the perfect spot!

I'm thinking of you today!
Kathi :)

Flipping & Staging

2009-04-29T06:43:00.012-05:00

A while back I called sister Kelli to chat, I asked her what she was doing...."I'm watching flipper" she replied. "What? they brought flipper back? I watched that as a kid" I heard laughing "No, I'm watching HGTV".

I've always enjoyed an occasional show on HGTV, especially when it comes to the gardening shows. They rarely have those on any more, HGTV is dedicated to home shows.

Sister Kelli is a part-time flipper and stager, she's wonderful at it! I think she should just start a business herself some day.

What does this have to do with anything you may be wondering?

Just a little update on my kitchen.....my full time job is getting in the way of my progress not to mention the warmer weather. I struggle between what to get done during my extra hours.

Advice: never, ever hang wallpaper unless you want it there forever! I said goodbye to my cherished border after much labor.

I miss each one of you and plan to drop by for a visit!

A Wonderful Day!
Kathi :)

Coach Purses & Miter Saws

2009-04-23T06:07:00.001-05:00

Just in time for spring...

the new line of coach purses!!Coach
This is a steal at $358....
yeah! stealing someone's money!!
LOL!

Several days ago two women had gone shopping at a coach outlet store and came back to work with a new coach purse....they were so excited they had found such a wonderful deal! The coach purses were on sale for $118!!!! If only I could show my facial expressions here.....

I said wow! that's awesome....I just bought a new miter saw for $126!

I've been busy working in my kitchen! There's much work to be done, I'd forgotten how much time it takes to paint, cut molding and next there will be a new laminate floor!

Flowers you ask....sigh, that has to get done as well!

Have An Awesome Day!
Kathi :)

2009-04-13T18:52:00.006-05:00

Hello! I'm dropping in to catch up and let you know I am doing much better, thank you for your prayers, kind thoughts and words :).

I don't know about you but my days seem to be flying by so fast....spring is arriving and there's so much to be done!

Life is like a coin. You can spend it any way you wish, but you only spend it once.
Lillian Dickson

Make it a great day!
Kathi :)

Blessings........

2009-04-03T19:06:00.006-05:00

Greetings and blessings to all! My sister has taken a brief hiatus due to illness and other projects. I know she is thinking of all of you and will be surprised to see this post here! These are not the only reasons for this post! I drove by the flea market on my way home today to check the depth of snow, etc., where I have a small seasonal shop. We are set to open in just over a month so wanted to get a birdseye view on things. Although temperatures were only hovering around 30 degrees and we just received 12 plus inches of snow this week, I am trying to get myself motived.

Needless to say on the trip home on the winding backroads, there is much to see in the past several months since last fall. There are many small country churches, etc. and I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me when I came upon this Lutheran Church's message for the week. This happens to be one of my sister's favorite bible versus so I opted to turn around and take a couple pictures against the beautiful, crisp, "spring" sky! I think you'll agree it will warm many a heart, especially given the Easter Season.

Psalm 46:10:10 "Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!"

My blessings to all of you this Easter Season.

Your Sister in Christ

~Sister Kelli~

UPDATE:
What a beautiful surprise sister Kelli! All week long I've been thinking what to write, how perfect this is. Yes, I need to Be Still for a while in my life. There is much to attend to these days. Each day I am getting better but it's has been a wakeup call to all the things I need to accomplish in life right now. I will post from time to time and most of all, I'd like to spend my extra time visiting you, my friends I've made on this wonderful adventure of blogging. I am always here so drop me a line if you want.

See you soon!
Hugs,
Kathi :)

Back In The Saddle Again!

2009-03-20T07:59:00.026-05:00

Fantastic time in Florida!

Can you imagine the joy I felt when I stepped off the plane from Minn-A-Snow-Ta to a perfect sunny day!

I settled in quickly and comfortably into cousin Jill's beautiful B&B :)

I marveled at the fresh fruit growing on trees everywhere I looked!

My heart sank when I had to pass up this beauty at a garage sale...
the asking price?
$10

I enjoyed a step back in time at a wonderful Amish Village!

Earth Box

I was like a little girl when we pulled up here :)

How can I fit one of these boxes in my suitcase?
Oh, you ship them :)

I met amazing new friends who can bake an authentic Latin flan.
Yes, I did get the recipe, I'll let you know how it turns out :)

Happy Friday!
Kathi :)

An Adventure

2009-03-04T08:01:00.006-06:00

Last weekend I took my granddaughter on an adventure...she doesn't care where we go as long as we go somewhere :).

Today I'll be heading out on my adventure to Florida!

My suitcase is packed! I hope it makes it through security :)

I hope I don't run into one of these :)

Until Next Week...
Have A Wonderful Day!
Kathi :)

Thank Goodness!

2009-02-26T06:38:00.008-06:00

Thank Goodness It's My Friday!

Thank you for dropping by to send me well wishes, it's amazing what some antibiotics can do! :) I appreciate you very much!!! Today is my Friday, I am driving n0rth to see my family but.....

A SNOW STORM is coming!

I'm looking forward to throwing some snowballs :) I'll be by to catch up with you!

Have A Fantastic Day! Hugs,
Kathi :)

Sick As A Dog

2009-02-23T09:17:00.021-06:00

I could hardly believe it! I was recovering nicely from my bout of stomach flu when suddenly this past Saturday I stated feeling a little.......

Tickle in my throat!

Then......

I started barking like a seal!!!!

So I started drinking....

mass quantities of orange juice....

and Jello

This morning I was going to see....

the doctor.....

Because next week I'm going to.....

Have A Wonderful Day!

Kathi :)

Green Thumb

2009-02-19T09:22:00.021-06:00

I'm getting out my green thumb and starting some seeds this year....I'm not sure if my green thumb is up to the task but it's worth a try.

I've spent a little time on google searching for idea's

I'm going to make some newspaper pots!

I found a video with instructions on E-How click here to watch the video :)

Next I'm going to search for my seeds :). Each year I buy seeds thinking I will plant them...I think it'll be a good test to use last years seeds in my little paper pots. Perhaps some of my basil and dill seeds then a few flowers, I'm thinking these little paper pots would be great for bulbs. Oh my, the mind....it can be a scary place :)

Each year I spend a lot of money on annuals, thankfully I save a lot of the pots they come in so I can recycle them. I'll still end up supporting my local plant shops so they can stay in business but I'd like to give this a try.

Have you ever tried paper pots?
I'd love to hear if you have :)

Have A Warm & Fuzzy Day!
Kathi :)

Spring!

2009-02-17T05:33:00.013-06:00

I've been thinking about spring....
no, not this kind of spring!

This Kind! :)

The beautiful smell of my lilacs....

Minnesota Lady Slippers.....

Precious Fox Gloves.....

Finally, My Roses....

31 days until it's officially spring!

I'd love to know what excites you about spring!

Have A Wonderful Day!
Kathi :)

Ten Commandments

2009-02-15T10:17:00.025-06:00

As a young girl I had to memorize the Ten Commandments, at the time I thought it was a horrible task to accomplish. As I've grown and matured I wonder why more young men and women aren't required to memorize them.

This past week on February 12th we celebrated Abraham Lincoln's 200th birthday. Lincoln's mother was a godly woman who sat Lincoln upon her knees day after day reading scriptures to him, she encouraged Lincoln to remember them. Particularly, she encouraged him to memorize the Ten Commandments.

The ten commandments had a profound effect on Lincoln's life. He said whenever he was tempted to do something wrong, he could still hear his mother's voice saying, "I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage . . . Thou shalt have no other gods before me . . . Thou shalt not steal . . . Thou shalt not kill . . . Thou shalt not bear false witness . . . " Abraham Lincoln became known as the most honest lawyer east of China.

Today there's a movement to remove all evidence of the Ten Commandments in America, I am thankful no one can ever remove them from my mind. Are you a parent or grandparent? I hope you take time to teach your children the Ten Commandments. Exodus 20:1-18

Have A Blessed Day!
Kathi :)

Click on the picture for more Spiritual Sundays

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T07:15:00.014-06:00

The postman always rings twice when a package arrives at my door. I thought I'd share my Valentine gift that arrived from Mother Carol. She made the above Valentine, just like the old days! This year more than ever I was brought back in time when I went in search of Valentine cards to give. Ohh, they had cute scooby doo, sponge bob square pants but nothing cute like the times of past. There must be a real need to teach Mother's and children how to make Valentine's cards.

I couldn't help but smile as I looked at Mother Carol's packaging! I thought of the mail carrier who put the label on this bottle, and how many smiles it must have gotten by the time it arrived, yes this is how my gift arrived. It's a little dented but everything inside was perfect. I can't believe the post office actually allowed Mother to send this!!! Inside were cookies, chocolates and the cute Valentine you see!

Not everyone has a Valentine, perhaps you've lost your special Valentine. Today I am thinking of each one of you, wishing your day be filled with love and surprises!

Happy Valentine's Day
From My Heart To Yours!
Kathi :)

Mother Carol

2009-02-11T08:56:00.011-06:00

Mother Carol made it big yesterday! in her heart and mind anyway :)...she loves reading blogs, especially My Romantic Home. My Mother sent Cindy this beautiful lamp and made her wonderful blog yesterday! If you haven't stopped by to visit Cindy I hope you take time today...click here and you can read about Mother Carol and Cindy :).

Isn't this cute?!! Guess what it is, go ahead you'll never guess! :)

Mother Carol made this awesome t-shirt into a bag! She took two t-shirts, sewed them together, sewed the bottom and there you have it! Sounds easy doesn't it :)...my Mother is one of the most creative women I know. I am truly blessed to have her as my Mother!

Have A Wonderful Day!

Kathi :)

Always On My Mind

2009-02-09T04:36:00.014-06:00

Martha's Valentine's Cookies

It's hard to believe a week has passed by, Martha's cookies finally look somewhat appealing to me :).

Thank you so much for your wonderful thoughts, prayers and well wishes as I continue to heal. I want you to know you were always on my mind last week. I was finally able to re-read all of your beautiful comments last night and I really cherish each one of you.

I'm looking forward to catching up with you this week!

Blessings,
Kathi :)

I've Had A Visitor

2009-02-02T09:30:00.017-06:00

I've had a visitor for several days....

the big green monster....

the stomach flu!

My Dad reminded me....
"girl, when you get to be your age....you need to get a flu shot"

Whoopie!! Spring Is Coming

2009-01-28T07:36:00.027-06:00

The first day of spring is March 20th,
so until then....let's make Whoopie's!

This is the only whoopie pie recipe I've ever made, I'm sure there are a lot of different varieties out there but I know this recipe is wonderful! This recipe was an original Pennsylvania Dutch Grandmother's. I have made a couple minor changes and I use my own frosting recipe to fill them. Num-A-Nums!!

Grandmother's Chocolate Whoopie Pies

2 c. sugar

1 c. shortening

1 c. dutch cocoa

2 egg yolks and 2 whole eggs

2 tsp. vanilla

1 c. buttermilk

2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

4 c. all purpose flour

Cream sugar and shortening together in a large bowl. Add eggs and mix. Sift dry ingredients together and add to the creamed mixture alternatively with milk. Batter will be stiff. If it is too thin, add more flour. Drop by tablespoon onto greased sheets, (I always use a cookie scoop). Bake at 350 for 8 to 10 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the cookies comes out clean. Cool completely. Frost the bottom side of one cookie and place another to make a sandwich. Store in an airtight container or place in an individual sandwich bag.

While the cookies are baking and cooling, mix up Kathi's filling :)

Kathi's White Whipped Frosting
1 cup white shortening
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon almond extract
about 1/4 cup water

In your kitchen aide mixing bowl (you can use a regular mixer), combine the shortening and 2 cups powdered sugar beating at low speed after each addition. Add 1/4 cup water and beat on low, slowly add the rest of the powdered sugar blending well . Add salt and flavorings; beat at low speed until blended then beat on high for at least 3 minutes, the more you beat the fluffier the frosting becomes. Keep bowl covered with a damp cloth until ready to use. For best results, keep icing bowl in refrigerator when not in use. Refrigerate in an airtight container, this icing can be stored 2 weeks. This really is best if you use a kitchen aide type of mixer in order to get it to whip the best but you can use a hand-held mixer if that's all you have. Makes about 3 cups of frosting.

Have a Whoopie Wednesday!
Kathi :)

Purse Intervention

2009-01-26T09:58:00.002-06:00

Sister Kelli

So what do two sisters do when they get together in Minnesota in January?

Purse Intervention!!!
Let's take a look in Sister Kelli's purse....

As you know our purses not only carry important personal items...
they become winter survival kits, in the event you end up in a ditch....
or in the middle of a blizzard.

There's always chocolate, chocolate is a must! Bugles, yes, bugles...they're a form of entertainment...you put them on all of your fingers and pretend they're long nails, if you're lucky, you'll find some pretty nail polish in your purse. The hours you spend painting your new bugle nails will help pass the time quickly while waiting for your rescue. A nice pair of glasses in the event you need to start a fire, hopefully the sun will be out so you're able to start a fire quickly, matches are not acceptable due to the fact you're flying somewhere warm next week and will get arrested at the airport check-in if you have matches. Thank you notes, you'll want to thank your loved ones for not coming to your rescue fast enough (frost bite toes). Make-up or sun bronzer along with a tooth brush is a must! You'll want to look your best when the news crew arrives, remember, the camera ages a person 10 years or more. Safety pops, need I say more! Listen ladies, the more weight you can get in your purse the better, you never know when some creepy dude will come along to help you out of the ditch, wait for that news crew! If you feel threatened, use your purse as a weapon, clobber him or use your room freshener spray in his eyes! A woman's purse is sacred, not to be laughed at or taken lightly.

We couldn't decide what color or size....
so we bought a lot!

I was laughing so hard at my sister I could hardly take pictures....why, you may be wondering? She is trying to hide purses inside of purses as my brother-in-law came along with her this weekend. Sure, tell yourself you've never hidden anything from your husband....I remember my Mother pulling some new number from the back of her closet, she had purchased it on sale the month before then hid it in the dark part of her closet. She'd cleverly wear it when my Dad was in a good mood. Dad would say "oh, that's a pretty sweater, did you just buy that?" Mom would reply "Oh no, it's been hanging in the closet" :)

Alright, I'll come clean....my sister has a summer clothing shop up north. We went shopping all day....up hill both ways to get all of these purses this past weekend. You can't sell clothing without purses, shoes, jewelry, accessories.....well, you get the picture. How much will she sell them for???? Every one of these purses will be priced under $10

Now for the good stuff :)

I needed some nourishment after the purse intervention...
so we ate cake! :)

Have A Happy Day!
Kathi :)

Worn Out

2009-01-25T11:20:00.021-06:00

This past week I enjoyed reading through some old Daily Bread teachings. I can't get the image of a worn Bible out of my mind.

I'll always remember the Bible teacher who held up his well-worn Bible and said, "Every believer should wreck a copy of the Bible every 10 years." In other words, we should use our Bibles so much that they gradually wear out. His challenge also reminds me of the saying: "A Bible that's falling apart is usually owned by someone who isn't!"

I remember as a child being taught to never set anything on top of my Bible, respect and cherish my Bible. I was never taught to wear out a Bible. Wearing out a Bible was a new concept to me about 15 years ago. My pink study Bible above is the closest I have come to wearing out a Bible. In my pink Bible are post it notes, torn pieces of paper, highlights, pictures, ect from being used.

My Bible—worn from years of fingered use, Penciled margins, verses underlined, With edges frayed and many pages loose—Shows where God impressed my heart and mind. —F. Hess The Bible is meant to be bread for daily use, not cake for special occasions.

Are you worn out or weary?

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29

Blessings,
Kathi :)

Click on the picture for more Spiritual Sundays

Happy Birthday!

2009-01-22T22:50:00.029-06:00

It's my birthday!

My husband George was ready with a surprise when I arrived home after work,

he's so thoughtful to have a cake all ready for me....
he dang near burned the house down! :)

George gave me a wonderful massage...
notice he made me a cup o' coffee,
hey, where's my chocolates?!!!

Yes, I'm the same age as Nikki!
She's actually a few months older than I am
we won't be rubbing that in today!
You know, rubbing salt in a wound thing ;)
You should go and visit her if you dare! :)

Yikes! where did those teeth come from ?!!

Sister Kelli gave me some wonderful new makeup for when we get older!

Grams stopped by to wish me a Happy Birthday!

Have A Happy Day!
Kathi :)

Romantic Living

2009-01-19T08:46:00.015-06:00

photography by Dan Mayers
Chez Fifi

When you think about romantic living, romantic homes, romance....what comes to your mind? I guess this time of the year brings romance into everyone's mind, even if you're a single woman.

photography by Dan Mayers

There are so many beautiful, romantic home blogs out there. I know as I visit a lot of them, this morning I was reminded of Chez FiFi's beautiful blog as you can see from the pictures above her beautiful home has been featured in many magazines.

Then I stumbled across a new adventure in Romantic Living you may want to check out.

Kelli & Maureen are two sisters who have started a blog called Romantic Living, you can click on the picture to head over and get signed up for their debut e-magazine which will be launched in March.

Have A Romantic Day, Kathi :)

I Have Everything

2009-01-18T08:55:00.015-06:00

"And the prayers: from simple pleas to the heavens
to the Lord's Prayer"
Flight 1549

I always look for God's hand in world disasters...my husband George and I have enjoyed reading Our Daily Bread for years, after this weeks crash in the Hudson River I wanted to share this reading from June 1, 2000. I continue to pray this disaster will change peoples lives, that only through Christ, they have everything.

I Have Everything

READ: Philippians 3:1-12

I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord. --Philippians 3:8

The airline had mangled Debbie's luggage. Then her purse disappeared. Instead of entering the airport through an enclosed corridor, she stumbled off the plane in the pouring rain. She was drenched, far from home with no money, no identification, and no dry clothes.

Under normal conditions Debbie would have been furious, but that night it didn't matter. She had just survived the crash of Flight 1420 in Little Rock, Arkansas. "When I walked off that plane," Debbie said, "I walked off with nothing, then I stopped and thought, I have everything." She had suddenly realized that her life was more important than all she had lost.

It sometimes takes a dramatic turn of events to alter our perspective. That was true for Saul of Tarsus. He had treasured his hard-earned reputation for "righteousness" more than anything in the world (Phil. 3:4-6). But when he met Christ on the Damascus road (Acts 9:1-6), his whole outlook changed. Later he wrote, "What things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ" (Phil. 3:7).

Yielding our sinful pride and self-sufficiency to the Lord may seem as if we are losing everything. But only then will we discover that to have life in Christ is to have everything. — David C. McCasland

We think we have what matters most
Of what this life can give;
But when we yield it all to Christ,
We've just begun to live. —DJD

When we have nothing left but Christ,
we find that Christ is enough.

Blessed Assurance,
Kathi :)

Click on the picture for more Spiritual Sundays

Minnesota Wednesday

2009-01-14T08:23:00.045-06:00

What do real men and women do in Minnesota when the temperature hits 30 below?

They join the Polar Bear Club
These men are real rocket scientist from the University Of Minnesota...
I bet you wish you could catch one of these hunks!
Wrap him around your little finger by Valentine's Day!

I double dog dare you!!!
For those of you who don't believe this can happen
You're invited to come on over, I'll supply the pole :)

Yesterday morning I went out to start the car, warm her up a bit...
George forgot to shut the door on ye olde family truckster....
I'm ok, we'll just buy a new one as they're
buy one get one free right now!
You know how I love a good sale!

My Brother-In-Law Jeffrey at the ice fishing derby....
he's looking for the big one, the prize was $25!!!

Well, as you can see, I wasn't able to find any women willing to attempt wild and crazy stunts like our men folk here in Minnesota! I'm sure I'll find them all here......yah sure you betcha!

A Wonderful Wednesday!

Kathi :)

Valentine, Oh Valentine

2009-01-12T09:25:00.020-06:00

I've been thinking about Valentine's Day lately, when I ran across these two Victoria magazines. One is from 1994 and the other is from 1995. As I leafed through them I took notice in the difference of the appearance and quality of the magazines. I noticed the pictures weren't as clear as they are today but the paper was much heavier and sturdy. Roses and lace filled the pages, there was little advertising inside, a pure joy to flip through the old keepsake and read inside it's beautiful cover.

What will you be doing this year for Valentine's Day?

Do you expect to be showered with gifts and chocolate?

Will you make heart shaped cookies to share?

Will you exchange Valentine's?
I'm curious, let me know please :)

Wishing you A Lovely Day!

Kathi :)

When Life Gets Too Hard To Stand...

2009-01-11T09:13:00.038-06:00

America....land of the free...home of the brave...freedom of prayer. Our country was founded by religious men and women, I don't believe there were any atheists who signed our Declaration Of Independence. I wonder what our founding father's would think of this news headline.

Atheists sue to get prayer, God out of Obama's swearing in.

Religious Affiliation of U.S. Founding Fathers	# of Founding Fathers	% of Founding Fathers
Episcopalian/Anglican	88	54.7%
Presbyterian	30	18.6%
Congregationalist	27	16.8%
Quaker	7	4.3%
Dutch Reformed/German Reformed	6	3.7%
Lutheran	5	3.1%
Catholic	3	1.9%
Huguenot	3	1.9%
Unitarian	3	1.9%
Methodist	2	1.2%
Calvinist	1	0.6%
TOTAL	204

source

The Star Spangled Banner
Francis Scott Key

Oh! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand
Between their loved home and the war's desolation!
Blest with victory and peace, may the heav'n rescued land
Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: "In God is our trust."
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

A 30 day prayer journey with Max Lucado

May you find time to pray!

Kathi :)

Click on the picture for more Spiritual Sundays

Sharing & Caring

2009-01-09T17:25:00.018-06:00

Kathi & Sister Kelli

Ok, ok so I spent some time away from bloggieland to be with my sister Kelli. She's not only beautiful on the outside, she's beautiful on the inside. Each year around December 31st we spend several days running from store to store shopping for major bargains...no, I don't need anything but the time we spend together laughing and searching to see who can find the best deals or craziest gift is PRICELESS!. We try not to purchase anything unless it's 75% or more off. It's the hunt, we're true bargain hunters. This year I found myself a little heart broken for the local merchants as I could see from their great surplus they had a tough year.

Now I won't bore you with everything we found but I thought I'd share a couple highlights!

A stop at our local family florist Bachman's I couldn't have been more delighted to get this :).....
It's a poinsettia tree...it was originally $125 I drove it home for the low price of $5. The manager of Bachman's delighted when I said "I'll take it" her co-workers encouraged her to throw it away. She explained to me she just couldn't do that. We shared stories as a line of women gathered and listened to us, soon everyone standing there wanted one but alas, it was mine :). What will I do with this you may be asking yourself as did my husband George :). Of course it has to winter indoors in Minnesota but poinsettia's are hardy in warm weather and live a long time if you take care of them. I never have much success at getting them to turn color but they make the most beautiful green plants, in the spring when it's warm enough I take them outside, I stick them in a pot. They love it and thrive beautifully so don't throw out that poinsettia.

I was lucky enough to be the first one to eye these beauties! It's a Karen Neuburger cookie baking set. I've wanted a nice ceramic mixing bowl like this for a long time so when I saw the goodies inside I couldn't resist...as I walked around the store thinking what a wonderful gift this would make it became a battle between myself and another woman who had now thought the same thing....luckily, I was able to snag about 4 of these beauties! There were some with pancake mix for $6 and this set was $10! I bet you couldn't find a bowl for that price :)

Bargain of the year...a huge pile of velvet stockings....sister Kelli and I will participate in the Angel Tree again next Christmas, we plan on being prepared! I found these beauties for 90% off! Ok, I went a little overboard and bought 4o of them :). LOL! You should have seen people staring at my cart full. It was so funny!!! when I checked out and paid $11 I was the one smiling all the way to my car.

I can't wait to show you what sister Kelli gave me for Christmas! Even tough we weren't going to exchange gifts! That will be coming soon and you won't want to miss that one!

Have A Wonderful Weekend!
Kathi :)

Is It Spring Yet?

2009-01-06T06:24:00.044-06:00

I woke up this morning and realized it was January 6, 2009!!!! I'm sure some of you are wondering where oh where is Kathi??? :)...I am here and I have missed visiting all of you! I will be around to catch up on what's happening! I thought I'd share a little bit of what I've been up to....

December 8th 6:00 PM
It started to snow here in Minna-snow-ta. The first snow of the season, George and I took our hot chocolate and sat for hours by the window watching the huge soft flakes drift down from heaven, it was so romantic we felt like newlyweds again. I love snow!

December 9th
We woke to a beautiful blanket of crystal white snow covering every inch of the landscape. What a fantastic sight! Can there be a more lovely place in the whole world? We shoveled for the first time this year, George and I felt like kids again. We shoveled both our driveway and sidewalks. This afternoon the snowplow came along and covered up the sidewalks and closed in the driveway, so we got to shovel again. What a perfect life.

December 12th
The sun melted all our lovely snow. Such a disappointment. Our neighbor Bob tells us not to worry, we'll definitely have a white Christmas. No snow on Christmas would be awful! Bob says we'll have so much snow by the end of winter, that I'll never want to see snow again. I don't think that's possible. Bob is such a nice man I'm glad he's our neighbor.

December 14th
Snow, lovely snow! 8" last night. The temperature dropped to -20. The cold makes everything sparkle so. The wind took my breath away, George and I warmed up by shoveling the driveway and sidewalks. This is the life! The snowplow came back this afternoon and buried everything again. I didn't realize I would have to do quite this much shoveling, but we'll certainly get back into shape this way. I wish I wouldn't huff and puff so.

December 15th
20 inches in the forecast. Sold our van and bought a 4x4 Blazer. Bought snow tires and 2 extra shovels. Stocked the freezer. George wants a wood stove in case the electricity goes out. I think that's silly. We aren't in Alaska after all..

December 16th
Ice storm this morning. George fell on his butt on the ice in the driveway putting down salt. George says it hurt real bad. I tried not to laugh as I think that's very cruel.

December 17th
Still way below freezing. Roads are too icy to go anywhere. Electricity was off for 5 hours. I had to pile blankets on to stay warm. Nothing to do but stare at George and try not to irritate him. More shoveling, it took all day. Darn snowplow came by twice. I tried to find a neighbor kid to shovel, but they said they're to busy playing hockey. I think they're lying. Bob says we have to shovel or the city will have it done and bill us. I think he's lying.

December 22nd
Bob was right about a white Christmas because 13 more inches of white stuff fell today, and it's so cold it probably won't melt 'till August. Took George and I 45 minutes to get all dressed up to go out to shovel. I tried to hire Bob who has a plow on his truck for the rest of the winter but he says he's too busy. I think he's lying.

December 23rd
Only 2" of snow today and it warmed up to 0. George wanted us to decorate the front of the house this morning. What, is he...nuts? Why didn't he suggest we do that a month ago? He says he did, but I think he's lying.

December 24th
6". Snow packed so hard by snowplow, I broke the shovel. Thought I was having a heart attack. If I ever catch the guy who drives that snowplow, I'll drag him through the snow by his ears. I know he hides around the corner and waits for us to finish shoveling and then comes down the street at a 100 miles an hour and throws snow every where we've just shoveled! Tonight George wanted me to sing Christmas carols with him and open our presents, but I was too busy watching for the snowplow.

December 25th
Merry Christmas. 20 more inches of snow tonight. Snowed in. The idea of shoveling makes my blood boil. I hate snow! The snowplow driver came by asking for a donation, I hit him over the head with my shove. George says I have a bad attitude. I think he's wrong. If I have to watch "It's A Wonderful Life" one more time, I'm going to hurt him.

December 26th
Still snowed in. Why in the world did we ever move here? It was ALL HIS idea.

December 27th
Temperature dropped to -30 and the pipes froze.

December 28th
Warmed up to above -50. Still snowed in.

December 29th
10 more inches. Bob says I have to shovel the roof or it could cave in. That's the silliest thing I've ever heard. How dumb does he think I am?

December 30th
The roof caved in. The snow plow driver is suing me for a million dollars for the bump on his head. George went home to his Mother's. 9" predicted.

December 31st
Set fire to what's left of the house. No more shoveling.

January 6th
I feel so good. I just love those little white pills they keep giving me.Why am I tied to the bed?????

Have A Fantastic Day!
Kathi :)

Cardinals

2008-12-29T07:42:00.014-06:00

source

It's cold in Minnesota right now, the days can be long as we see very little sun this time of the year. I rely on the beauty of God's creations many days and the northern cardinal is one of my favorites. They are difficult to photograph so I've borrowed some from those who can, you can click on the source to see more of their beautiful work.

Northern cardinals are fairly new to Minnesota. They first arrived in the southeastern part in the late 1800s, and it was not until the mid-1930s that they were established as permanent residents in Minnesota.

Evergreens help provide shelter and may encourage range expansion. Insects, wild fruits and seeds are their natural foods.

I hang bird feeders outside my living room window to delight in the cardinals and other birds that come to dine on a winters day. Studies show that northern cardinals not only mate for life but remain with partners the whole year .

source

The female Northern Cardinal sings, often from the nest. The song may give the male information about when to bring food to the nest. A mated pair shares song phrases, but the female may sing a longer and slightly more complex song than the male.

Have A Wonderful Day!

Kathi :)

New Year's Resolution

2008-12-28T08:07:00.019-06:00

It's almost that time again, to make new year's resolutions. I stopped making them years ago when I realized I never followed through, I failed. This year I've been thinking about the type of New Year’s resolution a Christian should make. I think I prefer the word commitment. It's been many years since I've read my One Year Bible, I think it's time to pick it up and read it once again. There is also the One Year Bible online version now.

Here are some of my thoughts on making a commitment for 2009:

Pray to the Lord for wisdom and guidance
Pray for God's strength to help me follow through with my commitment
Find an accountability partner who will help and encourage me
Give God the glory for my commitment, trust in him

What ever you decide I hope you remember.....

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13

New Year's Blessings,
Kathi :)

Click on the picture for more Spiritual Sundays

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T07:41:00.002-06:00

From Our House...
To Yours...
Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-22T05:03:00.023-06:00

The stockings were hung....

Merry Christmas!
From My House
To Yours...

Some of my pickle collection

Christmas Pickle Ornament Story

In Germany the tree was decorated the night before Christmas. The glass Christmas pickle ornament was always the last ornament to be hung on the Christmas tree. The parents would hide the glass pickle ornament in the Christmas tree among the other German glass ornaments. When the children were allowed to view the Christmas tree they would begin gleefully searching for the German glass pickle ornament. The children knew that whoever found the glass pickle ornament first would receive an extra little gift and would be the one to begin the unwrapping of the Christmas gifts.

Pickle Wraps

32 ounce jar of baby kosher dills
2-containers vegetable cream cheese or your choice
1/2 pound of thin sliced meat
dill weed-dried or fresh, I keep dried dill weed on hand all the time

Bring the cream cheese to room temperature, sometimes I microwave a few seconds but not too much. Spread a good layer of cream cheese onto your meat, cut into thin strips and roll around the baby pickles leaving the ends showing, I leave them whole as in the picture above. Put into airtight container and sprinkle with dill weed. These can be eaten right away but get better as they set, especially overnight. Num-A-Nums!

Made with my homemade green bean pickles :)

May your home be filled with
His love and joy
this Christmas!

Christmas Blessings!
Kathi :)

I Can Only Imagine

2008-12-21T07:38:00.020-06:00

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. Luke 2:8-16

I can only imagine, my life song by Mercy Me.

Surrounded by Your glory, what will my heart feel
Will I dance for you Jesus or in awe of you be still
Will I stand in your presence or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah, will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine

I can only imagine what it was like to make a journey to see a Christ child tucked away in a manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes. I can only imagine what it will be like to stand in His presence. Do you know His Glory? If you don't and want to, click here. May you remember the true meaning of Christmas this year. May the love of Christ fill your hearts and homes this Christmas.

Christmas Blessings & Prayers!

Kathi :)

Click on the picture for more Spiritual Sundays

My Little Town

2008-12-19T06:40:00.031-06:00

I got the call from sister Kelli several days ago, I could barely understand her through her tears, soon we were both sobbing like little girls. Our hearts were breaking as she stood at the giving tree in our little home town, the tree that stands year after year. "Kathi, there's so many names , I just want to take the whole tree" she said.

On this tree are little cutouts with a name, age and wants of the child. Mittens, hats, snow pants, a three year old girl wanted a doll, brown socks, soap, it went on and on. Normally this time of the year the tree is bare by now, all the names are taken but not this year, times are tough.

I said pick some names, I gave her a monetary quote and off she went. She's a fantastic shopper and a wonderful sister!

I've seen on the news all major charities are well below their projected budgets. Toys for Tots have empty crates and may not have enough toys. There are so many families in America who are going hungry right now.

If you haven't had a chance to give yet, there's still time, the need is always there, the reward is huge! On Christmas morning I will think of each child I gave to this year and pray for each one of them.

Edited to add Sister Kelli's thoughts:
Sister Kelli with a quick post, taking a break from my wrapping! I initially seleted five children from the Giving Tree in our small town. It was difficult to make a selection, to decide which names to leave behind......in my mind I thought for sure someone would choose the younger children, after all who could pass up a three year old child, wanting only a doll!! The children I selected wanted simple things, bath products, socks, a watch, nothing too extravagant. So, when I got the call to see if there were names left, much to my surprise, when three year old Tiffany's name was still there, who only wanted a doll, I was speechless, to say the least. I figured I can cut back on groceries, or something else if I need to this month, to get a few kids modest Wish this Christmas season. In a slow economy, where I, too, only work part-time, pay my own health insurance, know it's a struggle, and also know what it's like to go without. So this Christmas Season I vowed to try to give those who have less than I, a little better holiday season. Also this week, a friend and co-worker also lost her home to a tragic fire on Wednesday. Luckily no lives were lost and yes, her family will rebuild. She is strong in will and in faith. We need to take a step back and be giving of ourselves, even in a time when we may not have it to give. My prayers are with you all this Holiday Season and of course throughout the New Year.

I Am Blessed, May You Be Also!

Kathi :)

Moravian Star

2008-12-15T06:10:00.000-06:00

source

During the holiday season, many families decorate their homes with a Moravian star. While these unique multi-pointed stars are beautiful, they also have a rich history.

A Moravian star (German: Herrnhuter Stern) is an illuminated piece of Advent or Christmas decoration popular in Germany and in places in America and Europe where there are Moravian congregations. The stars take their English name from the Moravian Church; in Germany, they are known as Herrnhut stars, named for the Moravian Mother Community in Saxony, Germany, where they were first commercially produced.

What does this have to do with anything you may be asking yourself....I am German! :) My Great-Grandfather came on a ship from Germany in the late 1800's and I cherish any German history I can experience or share.

There are many forms of Moravian stars, but the most commonly seen and most widely available is the 26-point form, composed of eighteen square and eight triangular cone shaped points. The Star originated in the church's schools as a geometry lesson. Moravian stars continue to be a popular Christmas and Advent decoration throughout the world. The stars are often seen in Moravian displays as a representation of the Star of Bethlehem. The city of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, founded by Moravians in 1766 uses the Moravian star as their official Christmas decoration. Moravian stars hang on the streets of downtown Winston-Salem.

Christmas Blessings,
Kathi :)

Wise Men Still Seek Him

2008-12-14T00:01:00.035-06:00

Moravian Star~Lee LeFever click to see more of Lee's work

Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. Matthew 2:1-2

Wise Men Still Seek Him. I loved this saying when I first heard it years ago, I also love the Moravian star so this year I decided to put the two together :).

I've always been fascinated by the beauty of stars, the Moravian star, the stars in the heavens but there's none like the star in the east so many years ago.

Soon Christmas will be done for another year, my hope is you will remember the star. The star was a light to the Gentiles so many years ago and we still need it's light as much today as they did back then.

I've met some wise men and women in my day and then some really wise men and women. I've met wise men and women as in smart people, people who teach others, people who have knowledge through life experience and are wise but they may not qualify as wise people. The wise men of the Bible were wise because they followed God's direction and followed a bright star so many years ago.

The star told the wise men a new king was born. Wise men went searching for Jesus.

Are you a wise man or woman?

Christmas Blessings,
Kathi :)

Click on the picture for more Spiritual Sundays

Free Hugs

2008-12-11T08:33:00.006-06:00

This time of the year can get a little crazy...
please stop and enjoy a hug from me today!

Christmas Hugs,
Kathi :)

Christmas Cookie Exchange

2008-12-10T06:17:00.035-06:00

Each year my family gathers together to make wonderful Christmas cookies, as you can see it's hard to decide which one to eat :). Which one is my favorite? rolled frosted white cookie? peanut butter balls? spritz ribbons dipped in white chocolate? Grandma's date filled cookies? Mom's melting moments? these are just a few of our annual favorites.

When Jan at Jan and Tom's Place decided to have a cookie swap it was hard to decide on one special cookie but I have selected Mom's Melting Moments. They are very easy and one of my favorites. They are a light, buttery cookie your family will love.

Mom's Melting Moments

1 Cup Butter (use only butter)
1 Cup All Purpose Flour
1/3 Cup Powdered Sugar
3/4 Cup Cornstarch

Mix all ingredients and roll into small balls. Dent the center and bake in 350 pre-heated oven for about 15 minutes or until very light brown. Cool completely. Frost melting moments using a star tip and sprinkle with colored sugars.

Kathi's White Frosting
1 Cup Crisco
1/2 Teaspoon salt
2 Teaspoons Almond Extract
4 cups Powdered Sugar
About 1/4 Cup Water add slowly as you mix
Makes about 3 cups of frosting

In your mixing bowl add all ingredients except water and mix gently on low speed to get it mixed. Slowly add water until you get the right consistency of the frosting you want then mix it for at least 5 to 10 minutes. You may not need as much water or you may need a bit more depending on the time of year and where you live. The longer you whip this frosting, the better it will taste. You could also use canned frosting if you must.

I hope you enjoy visiting Jan and each one of the participants as we all share many of our favorite recipes during this Christmas season. Click on the gingerbread boy to visit Jan and many others.

I am proud to say Merry Christmas!
Kathi :)

Fun With Paula

2008-12-09T05:02:00.020-06:00

Paula Deen

There's just something about her isn't there? Pauler, spatchaler, her brother Bubber, almost any word you can think of just add an "er" on the end and you'll fit right in at Paula's home. I remember my first visit to Savannah, GA. The historical little town was quiet back then, Paula wasn't big like she is now, oh there was a line to get into The Lady & Son's but not like it is today. I remember my first hoe cake and fried green tomato's at The Lady & Son's, there's nothing like it up north. As I sat and watched Paula's family gather for Christmas on the food network I couldn't help but fall in love with those wonderful pewter measuring cups, not spoons but measuring cups I saw her using. Off I went to investigate!

The Tin Woodsman Pewter Company

Look what I found! Well, I won't be making a purchase any time soon unless I find them at a local thrift store...LOL! But I can wish can't I? There's some wonderful eye candy if you dare to head over to the Tin Woodsman!

A Wonderful Day To You!
Kathi :)

The Reason For The Season

2008-12-07T07:44:00.016-06:00

The Legend of the Candy Cane

Look at the Candy Cane
What do you see?
Stripes that are red
Like the blood shed for me
White is for my Savior
Who's sinless and pure!
"J" is for Jesus, My Lord, that's for sure!
Turn it around
And a staff you will see
Jesus my shepherd
Was born for Me!

Many years ago, a candy maker wanted to make a candy at Christmas time that would serve as a witness to his Christian faith. He wanted to incorporate several symbols for the birth, ministry and death of Jesus. He began with a stick of pure white hard candy; white to symbolize the Virgin Birth and the sinless nature of Jesus; hard to symbolize the solid rock, the foundation of the Church; firmness to represent the promise of God. The candy maker made the candy in the form of a "J" to represent the name of Jesus, who came to earth as our Savior. He thought it could also represent the staff of the Good Shepherd, with which he reached down into the ditches of the world to lift out the fallen lambs who, like all sheep, have gone astray.

Thinking that the candy was somewhat plain, the candy maker stained it with red stripes. He used three small stripes to show the stripes of the scourging Jesus received, by which we are healed. The large red stripe was for the blood shed by Christ on the cross so that we could have the promise of eternal life. Unfortunately, the candy became known as a candy cane - a meaningless decoration seen at Christmas time. But the true meaning is still there for those who have eyes to see and ears to hear.

Have A Blessed Day,
Kathi :)

Click on the picture for more Spiritual Sundays

Baking Spirits Bright

2008-12-03T10:00:00.009-06:00

The sun was barely up when I finally finished loading the car with all the baking supplies, cookie decorating goods, Thanksgiving trimmings and goodies for several days of family baking. With recipes in hand I made the long drive with Christmas music playing and recipes in tow.

When I arrived at the church, sister Kelli had all of our aprons in a row,
ready to be worn and the baking began.

Three years ago my Dad was diagnosed with mantel cell lymphoma, which is a terminal cancer, he is a miracle survivor and is currently in remission taking his first break from any kind of treatment in over three years. His favorite cookie's are snickerdoodles which I have never made so I wrote down RuthAnn's recipe and made a special batch just for him :). I rolled them out ever so gently, and left them about 1/2 inch thick. I used several cookie cutters then dipped the snickerdoodles in the cinnamon and sugar mixture, if it doesn't stick too well, sprinkle some on top. If only you could smell them, won't you have one please?, they're wonderful!

This recipe is borrowed from RuthAnn at Warm Pie, Happy Home, if you haven't dropped by to meet her, please do so, what a wonderful woman she is with a beautiful bloggie home and you will be filled with blessings!

AUNT RUTHIE'S SNICKERDOODLES

Preheat oven at 350

1 cup butter (2 sticks) *Do not melt butter! Chop cold butter into small chunks.

1 1/2 cups sugar

2 large eggs

Cream together (I use a Kitchen Aid stand up mixer), then add the dry ingredients that you have pre-mixed in a separate bowl:

2 3/4 cups flour

2 teaspoons cream of tartar

1 teaspoon baking soda (make sure it's fresh)

1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix well, wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 20 minutes in freezer or 1 hour in refrigerator (very important!).

Then roll into 1" balls

and dip into a mixture of:

1/2 cup sugar

3 tablespoons cinnamon

Place on ungreased cookie sheet

Bake 8-10 minutes at 350 or 375 (each oven is different, so test the first batch and adjust temp and time if needed.)

*If you melt the butter, the cookies will spread out too thin, I learned a long time ago--the hard way--that when it comes to cookies never melt the butter!

A Warm Day To You!

Kathi :)

Peanut Butter Balls

2008-11-24T02:21:00.024-06:00

My Granddaughter and Daughter...priceless
First you have to make the peanut butter mixture into balls...
but you can't eat all of them :).

Next we'll dip them into chocolate! Num-A-Nums :)
Can you guess which one my Granddaughter made?

Here's the recipe:
2 cups creamy peanut butter
1 cup soft butter
4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
3 cups rice krispies

Beat peanut butter and butter together with an electric hand mixer until creamy. Add powdered sugar and mix again. Stir in rice krispies by hand and refrigerate for 2 hours. Roll dough into balls and place on a cookie sheet lines with waxed paper. Freeze the dough balls. Melt chocolate in a double boiler and dip the dough balls into the chocolate until completely covered. It is easier to work in small batches and keep the rest in the freezer until ready to use. They are easier to handle when still frozen. After dipped in chocolate, set each on the waxed paper again and either allow them to set on their own or freeze again to set faster. Makes about 5 dozen.

Let's clean up now.

Do you have any more dirty dishes? I love washing dishes.

Have A Wonderful Day!
Kathi :)

Thanks Be To God!

2008-11-23T05:39:00.047-06:00

picture from google images

Who were these pilgrims? Pilgrims wanted nothing to do with the Church of England regardless of which theology predominated. The dictionary tells us a pilgrim is a person who journeys a long distance, to some sacred place as an act of religious devotion. A better word for this group, may be separatists, dissenters or non-conformists.

The Pilgrims church was simple, with no crosses, statues, stained glass windows or fancy architecture. There was no particular religious significance to their “meeting house.” In September 1620, the Mayflower departed with 102 passengers bound for the Virginia coast.

That autumn of October 1621, the remaining colonists of Plymouth and about 90 Native Americans celebrated a three-day outdoor feast which probably included venison, water-fowl, fish, wheat, corn, barley, and perhaps a few peas. They may have also had shellfish, lobster, eel, nuts, squashes, and beans - which were common local foods.

Why have a thanksgiving celebration, what reason was there to give thanks to God? Their lives were hard, over one half of the pilgrims had died in the first year, hunger, and sickness continued, they had endured unimaginable hardships.

I believe these men and women were amazing! they could give thanks because they believed God had blessed them. God had been faithful to his promise. God's will had been done and their dream was still alive. Do you have faith like the pilgrims had?

Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.

For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Psalm 100:4-5

Please remember our soldiers this Thanksgiving as they serve our country,
as they're away from home and loved ones.

Even God's creature's are praying and giving thanks!

May your hearts be filled with joy, praises and thanksgiving!
Kathi :)

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Victorian Postcards

2008-11-22T06:09:00.022-06:00

I woke up this morning after a busy week and looked at the Thanksgiving counter on my blog and it said 5 days until Thanksgiving! WHAT? Martha would be shocked that I am not prepared for this reminder! I love Thanksgiving, not because of all the food but the origin of Thanksgiving, the history and hardships that were endured for our country to have this special celebration.

I grew up in Northern Minnesota near an Indian reservation, I love the post card above as it reminds me of my childhood days. If it weren't for Squanto the history of Thanksgiving and America would be completely changed. I am thankful for all the hardships endured by all people so I can celebrate freely this Thanksgiving.

This post card reminds me of my granddaughter...I can see her trying to feed that fat turkey!

We can't forget the fall harvest...my grandfather was a farmer, he worked hard his whole life. I am thankful for the time I had with him. The pilgrims set aside a day of Thanksgiving to praise the Lord for all of their blessings, their family. How blessed I am for my family and friends, friends like you :).

Thinking of you and giving thanks!

Kathi :)

My Sibs

2008-11-19T09:41:00.009-06:00

front:brother Ken, sister Kelli
back: me :), sister Kristi, sister Kerri

I'm having way too much fun with this program...I am so far behind on my visits! I will be by soon! I miss everyone and can't wait to see what you're up to!

Blessings & Giggles,

Kathi :)

Are We Having Fun Yet?

2008-11-17T18:27:00.008-06:00

This is my Dad and Granddaughter

They haven't looked this good in a long time!
Neither has my Granddaughter's boota or blankie :)

My George sent me a fun new website called pizap...you'll have to head over there and have some fun with your favorite pictures.

Have A Laugh Today!
Kathi :)

Be Still

2008-11-16T07:50:00.009-06:00

Thomas Kinkade

Be still, and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10

I find it hard to believe another week has passed by, it's Sunday again. Time seems to slip by me so quickly these days. Today, I want to be still, quiet in prayer and thanksgiving for all the blessings I have, for my wonderful husband, family and you! I praise you Lord for this day, to be still and wait upon you.

May your day be filled with His Joy!

Kathi :)

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I have turned off the comments for today, I cherish each one of them but please take the extra time to say a prayer for someone special in your life or give thanks unto the Lord. I am truly blessed by you!

All I Want For Christmas...

2008-11-14T09:08:00.000-06:00

Seriously, what's all the fuss about wanting two front teeth for Christmas!

I want diamonds, cars, money, china, fine chocolates...well, you get the idea :)
I'd better not be getting two front teeth wrapped up in a box with a bow.

How about some of this bling bling wrapped up with a big bow!

I just had my teeth cleaned and polished,

they're in perfectly good health!
Dr. Nutty is so happy with my flossing!

My husband George went along for his cleaning as well!
He has a little recession in his gums....we're in a recession you know!

Nope, no front teeth needed here!

No root canals!
No drilling!
I am concerned about his hairdo though, seriously,
how can you go out in public with that doo?

Have A Fun Day!
Kathi :)

The 4 Letter Word

2008-11-12T07:58:00.008-06:00

SNOW!
It snuck up on me while I was sleeping...
it took my snap dragon's breath away, like a thief in the night!

May Your Day Be Full Of Surprises!
Kathi :)

Simpler Times

2008-11-10T05:07:00.049-06:00

Simpler Times by Thomas Kinkade 1996

I remember it as if it were yesterday, the first time I stepped into Thomas Kinkade's home town gallery in Placerville, CA. I had no idea who this man was but I remember the awe I felt when I saw his first painting.

Here it is~The Light Of Peace 1996 Thomas Kinkade Hometown Gallery Placerville, CA

My friend Rebecca@In Every Season has tagged me with this wonderful bookworm award. Rebecca has been a faithful, cherished friend since I started blogging. Thank you for the honor dear friend.

Here's how it goes.

Pass this on to 5 blogging friends.

Open the closest book to you, not your favorite or most intellectual book, but the book closest to you at the moment, to page 56.

Write out the 5th sentence, as well as two to five sentences following that...

I have to be honest, this was a tough one as I am surrounded by my Bibles, many of them. I am also surrounded by many books. I chose Simpler Times by Thomas Kinkade, not only for it's beautiful artwork but the beauty of his words and thoughts. I have many of his books and cherish each one of them. If you've never been to one of his galleries, I want to encourage you to go, it will be worth your time :).

You can also be a creative builder, a creative gardener, a creative hang glider. There is creativity in solving personal problems in overcoming obstacles, in keeping relationships warm. Creativity is not optional equipment. It's a built-in potential, a seedling planted deep in the human personality.

Now, if you know me at all you'll know I'm a notorious rule breaker. I tag the following peeps in no particular order :)

Vee@A Haven For Vee
Anna@Flowergardengirl
Bonita@Stream Of Living Water
Wanita@At Home In The City
Nikki@Blah, Blah, Blah
Robyn@There Is Always Thyme For
Rue@Rue's Peanut Butter and Jelly Life

Sheila@Note Songs
Tattingchic@Tattingchic
Cinj@Cinj's Chat Room
Ruthie@Just Ruthie

May Your Day Be Filled With Simpler Times,

Kathi :)

Jars Of Clay

2008-11-09T01:16:00.015-06:00

Jars Of Clay

I've been thinking a lot this week about how much of a cracked pot I am :). I'm a jar made of clay, God calls me a clay pot. I have some cracks that have been carefully mended together by God's loving hands, I am sturdy yet fragile. I'm reminded not to be ashamed of the cracks in my life, this is my testimony that God fixes broken pieces. I am also reminded that I keep a wonderful treasure inside my clay pot. My precious treasure of love, hope and a future with my lord Jesus.

Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,"made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:1-8

A Blessed Day To You!
Kathi :)

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It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like....

2008-11-08T06:46:00.033-06:00

Thanksgiving~Martha's Way

Thanksgiving! you thought I was going to say Christmas didn't you? :) Yesterday as I shot out the door on my way to work I felt the flitter of snowflakes on my face, yes, I said snow flakes. When I arrived at work I heard these dreaded words "we should start playing Christmas music"...now, don't get me wrong, I will be the first one to decorate and slap in the old Christmas music but to start playing it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas on November 6th is just WRONG!

It got me thinking about turkey and dressing this morning. Of course I love to look at everyone's favorite thoughts of the perfect Thanksgiving dinner. I remember making the long drive to northern Minnesota where my Grandfather's farm stands, my Tante (aunt) always cooked. I still marvel at how we all fit into that small farm house, it was truly a Rockwell moment.

I love history, Thanksgiving is truly American, a holiday we should be proud of and cherish each year, don't let it slip by.

Fun facts:
The pilgrims didn't use forks; they ate with spoons, knives, and their fingers.
Lobster, seal and swans were on the Pilgrims menu, not turkey.
People tend to think of English food at bland, in fact, the pilgrims used many spices, including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, pepper, and dried fruit, in sauces for meats.
The pilgrims probably didn't have pies or anything sweet at the harvest feast. They had brought some sugar with them on the Mayflower but by the time of the feast, the supply had dwindled.

I had to throw this in for fun :)
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Minnesota is the top turkey-producing state in America, with a planned production total of 49 million in 2008.

For more history about Thanksgiving visit History.com

According to Martha : A memorable Thanksgiving requires savvy planning, and now is the best time to start. This week, set the tone for your meal by choosing one of our three customized menus, and then create fall touches for your home that will last throughout the season.

If you haven't started planning, there's still help and time!
Martha has a full planning guide here.

Gobble, Gooble!
Kathi :)

I'm Going Banana's

2008-11-07T05:53:00.005-06:00

It's Friday and I'm trying to head out the door for work...up hill both ways :). My friend Rebecca has given me two awards that I wanted to get posted but haven't yet, my sister Kelli was calling and talking about cookie baking, I have last minute outside work and the "S" word is in the forecast....yes, I feel as if I've slipped on a banana peel or just plain going to the dogs!

Have a banana of a day!

Kathi :)

Time To Laugh

2008-11-05T09:48:00.016-06:00

Back:Kathi, Kristi, Kerri

Front:Ken & Kelli
PS~picture taken on the last day...
at the end of the day, can you tell?

After all the negative political ads...I thought it was time for a laugh...most of you are planning your traditional Thanksgiving turkey but as some of you know my family will be baking...days and days....up hill both ways! Then into the freezer they will go, well, most of them :)

Kelli, Ken & Mother Carol sporting their bowl helmets...in case a family feud breaks out!

Last year Jaco was introduced to the family baking...a good ride was had by all! :)
Tante....the time for fun is over...
we have way too much frosting to go! Get busy!

What do you do for family traditions? Do you have long standing ones?
Will there be turkey with all the fixings?

Have A Wonderful Day! Kathi :)

Women's Suffrage~Why Women Should Vote

2008-11-04T06:51:00.017-06:00

In the early nineteenth century, women were considered second-class citizens whose existence was limited to the interior life of the home and care of the children. Women were considered sub-sets of their husbands, and after marriage they did not have the right to own property, maintain their wages, or sign a contract, much less vote. It was expected that women be obedient wives, never to hold a thought or opinion independent of their husbands. It was considered improper for women to travel alone or to speak in public.

Source:History

Lucy Burns

Harriet Tubman

Today's the day! Finally! Starbucks is offering a free cup of coffee to everyone who votes, I don't know about you but that alone might prompt me to get out there today and vote! My Uncle Ray reminded via an email a while back about Women's Suffrage. My Great Grandmother was not able to vote, can you believe that! Women were jailed, starved, beaten, near death for the right to vote...how can "I" stay away from the polls after such suffrage occurred for my rights as a woman.

George Washington~a man after God's own heart!

For you men...I haven't forgotten our founding father's who suffered for our country!

Have An Awesome Day!
Kathi :)

Those Bloody Penguins!

2008-11-03T06:22:00.005-06:00

This morning when the alarm went off it sounded just like this!

Here's to another Munday! :)
Kathi :)

A Prayer From Our President

2008-11-02T10:12:00.019-06:00

George Washington
A man after God's own heart

Sunday Evening~A prayer from George Washington's prayer journal

O most Glorious God, in Jesus Christ my merciful and loving father, I acknowledge and confess my guilt, in the weak and imperfect performance of the duties of this day. I have called on thee for pardon and forgiveness of sins, but so coldly and carelessly, that my prayers are become my sin and stand in need of pardon. I have heard thy holy word, but with such deadness of spirit that I have been an unprofitable and forgetful hearer, so that, O Lord, tho' I have done thy work, yet it hath been so negligently that I may rather expect a curse than a blessing from thee. But, O God, who art rich in mercy and plenteous in redemption, mark not, I beseech thee, what I have done amiss; remember that i am but dust, and remit my transgressions, negligences & ignorances, and cover them all with the absolute obedience of thy dear Son, that those sacrifices which I have offered may be accepted by thee, in and for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ offered upon the cross for me; for his sake, ease me of the burden of my sins, and give me grace that by the call of the Gospel I may rise from the slumber of sin into the newness of life. Let me live according to those holy rules which thou hast this day prescribed in thy holy word; make me to know what is acceptable in thy holy word; make me to know what is acceptable in thy sight, and therein to delight, open the eyes of my understanding, and help me thoroughly to examine myself concerning my knowledge, faith and repentance, increase my faith, and direct me to the true object Jesus Christ the way, the truth and the life, bless O Lord, all the people of this land, from the highest to the lowest, particularly those whom thou has appointed to rule over us in church & state. continue thy goodness to me this night. These weak petitions I humbly implore thee to hear accept and ans. for the sake of thy Dear Son Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

When I shut up heaven and there is no rain, or command the locusts to devour the land, or send pestilence among My people, if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:13-14

I believe our country needs more men and women like George Washington. Please take time to pray during this important time in our country.

Blessings,
Kathi :)

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Bzzzzz

2008-10-31T05:15:00.003-05:00

I'll be driving north this morning...up hill both ways....but when I get there I'll find time to drop by this afternoon to see what you're up to! Probably no good! ;) I'm expecting treats all day long!
My Granddaughter seem to be lost...she's the one with the pink ears, I must drive up and help her find her way out of this maze....

Have A Very Fun Day!

Kathi :)

Cream Cheese Banana Bread Southern Style

2008-10-29T07:57:00.020-05:00

Mother Carol subscribes to all different types of magazines, Romantic Homes, Southern Lady, Southern Living, the list could go on and on. This recipe is from Southern Living January 2005. I didn't add nuts to mine as some folks don't seem to care for them...are they nuts? ;)

This is a wonderful, light cake like bread...next I am going to try adjusting the recipe using pumpkin and will let you know how that turns out, but really, this is wonderful, try some with homemade honey butter...Num-A-Nums!

Cream Cheese-Banana-Nut Bread

Prep: 15 min., Bake: 1 hr., Cool: 40 min. Warm bread is yummy, but to get perfect slices, let bread cool 30 minutes, and cut with a serrated or electric knife.
3/4 cup butter, softened
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (about 4 medium)
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

**WARNING FROM KATHI**
I do not use a mixer to make breads, if you over mix them they won't turn out as well. If you do use a mixer I would just mix the butter, cream cheese and eggs, then add all the dry ingredients and mix very little, it should not be a smooth batter like cake batter. :)**

Beat butter and cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until blended after each addition.

Combine flour and next 3 ingredients; gradually add to butter mixture, beating at low speed just until blended. Stir in bananas, pecans, and vanilla. Spoon batter into 2 greased and floured 8- x 4-inch loaf pans.

Bake at 350° for 1 hour or until a long wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean and sides pull away from pan, shielding with aluminum foil last 15 minutes to prevent browning, if necessary. Cool bread in pans on wire racks 10 minutes. Remove from pans, and cool 30 minutes on wire racks before slicing.

Now really...I must go have my coffee and banana bread!

Wonderful Day to you!

Kathi :)

PS...I've been boo~ED by the lovely Southern Lady
Sheila @Note Songs

When Dogs Fly

2008-10-27T06:57:00.010-05:00

Thanks Mother Carol for the picture!

It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas.....We had a few snow flurries with lots of blizzard like winds yesterday. I was able to get some cleaning done along with a little bit of cooking and baking! I'm now ready to fly off to work for another busy day!

Have A Wonderful Day!

Kathi :)

His Promise

2008-10-26T00:01:00.002-05:00

The Woodpecker Might Have To Go

Everything that happens to you is for your own good. If the waves roll against you, it only speeds your ship toward the port. If lightning and thunder comes, it clears the atmosphere and promotes your soul’s health. You gain by loss, you grow healthy in sickness, you live by dying, and you are made rich in losses.

Could you ask for a better promise? It is better that all things should work for my good than all things should be as I would wish to have them. All things might work for my pleasure and yet might all work my ruin. If all things do not always please me, they will always benefit me.

This is the best promise of this life.

– Charles Haddon Spurgeon, quoted in The Promise, by Robert J. Morgan

I picked up a book called The Promise and started reading it this past week. I haven't finished reading it yet but it promises to be a good book. God's promise, it doesn't mean times will always be good...but He does promise to be there with me. Some amazing things happened at work. A co-worker was offered a new job, wonderful hours, benefits and wage, she just couldn't pass it up. As we said goodbye and wished her well, I was told my hours wouldn't be cut, I would have to work harder as we would be missing her but I would keep my hours. Two blessings for two people, God's promise. Thank you all for your prayers.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

May you feel God's promise,
His promise, this week.

Kathi :)

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