Innisfree In Alaska

This young man shold be commended!

2011-02-17T12:42:00.000-08:00

He had a hard choice here but he made the right decision. Co-ed wrestling is becoming more and more popular. Should this be allowed at all?

my new baby

2011-02-10T20:10:00.001-08:00

Here he is. No name yet but we are working on it.

31 degrees

2011-01-22T16:57:00.000-08:00

where did the cold weather go? I think it went on down to the " lower 48". Well I don't miss it! What's the weather like where you are at?

Cooking up Faith

2011-01-22T16:56:00.001-08:00

Pass this on! What a great way to help someone in need.
Cooking Up Faith

coffee with a friend

2011-01-04T15:40:00.000-08:00

Today I had coffee with a friend and it made my day. I was feeling down. I was in the dumps. Then a wonderful christian friend came over. Sometimes all we need is fellowship. Thank you God for sending me a friend!

cost of food

2011-01-01T19:38:00.000-08:00

Have you ever looked at the USDA website to find what the "cost of food" in your area is? I have looked at the thrifty alaska plan and I definitely go over it. I would like to see how close I can get to their estimated cost.
Do you think your family is on the thrifty or moderate plan? What do you think of their free cookbook? Some of these things I already do. I do use powdered milk. I do buy fruit and vegetables in season. I do buy economy amounts if possible. I wonder if the plan for Alaska is rural or urban. That would make a difference.

New Years Prayer

2010-12-31T18:44:00.000-08:00

Guess what? My resolutionis to work much more on my blog. To learn more about frugal living and to offer tips and educate as I learn as well.
Currently I am planning on spending Sabbath enjoying doing just that. I am looking forward to it in fact.
Here is a New Years Prayer I came across:

A New Year Prayer

Holy Father,

God of our yesterdays, our today, and our tomorrows.

We praise You for Your unequaled greatness.

Thank You for the year behind us and for the year ahead.

Help us in Your new year, Father, to fret less and laugh more.

To teach our children to laugh by laughing with them.

To teach others to love by loving them.

Knowing, when Love came to the stable in Bethlehem, He came for us.

So that Love could be with us, and we could know You.

That we could share Love with others.

Help us, Father, to hear Your love song in every sunrise,

in the chriping of sparrows in our backyards,

in the stories of our old folks, and the fantasies of our children.

Help us to stop and listen to Your love songs,

so that we may know You better and better.

We rejoice in the world You loved into being.

Thank You for another new year and for new chances every day.

We pray for peace, for light, and for hope, that we might spread them to others.

Forgive us for falling short this past year.

We leave the irreparable past in your hands, and step out into the unknown new year knowing You will go with us.

We accept Your gift of a new year and we rejoice in what's ahead, depending on You to help us do exactly what You want..

I say it again, we rejoice!

In Jesus name,

Amen.

* I found this and many more interesting tidbits to the left of this page: HaLife

2010-10-03T22:13:00.000-07:00

Here stranded in Anchorage due to a storm I have partaken in some fast food. Where I live no fast food. So here is a good site with some secret-type recipes. -
SECRET RECIPES

September in Cordova

2010-09-22T15:25:00.000-07:00

Family happenings... Peter had a birthday.
I made oreo fudge ice cream bars and we had a bbq.

It's a tight squeeze in the travel trailer but we all made due.

And here's some photo's of some salmon we caught and..

the "little" stinker who begged for scraps!

Happy birthday to my love.

There are people who can walk away from you...

2010-09-20T17:01:00.000-07:00

* I got this from my friend Dawn, and it is definitely a good message.
By T.. D. Jakes

There are people who can walk away from you.

And hear me when I tell you this! When people can walk away from you: let them walk. I don't want you to try to talk another person into staying with you, loving you, calling you, caring about you, coming to see you, staying attached to you. I mean hang up the phone.

When people can walk away from you let them walk. Your destiny is never tied to anybody that left.

The bible said that, they came out from us that it might be made manifest that they were not for us. For had they been of us, no doubt they would have continued with us. [1 John 2:19]

People leave you because they are not joined to you. And if they are not joined to you, you can't make them stay.

Let them go.

And it doesn't mean that they are a bad person it just means that their part in the story is over. And you've got to know when people's part in your story is over so that you don't keep trying to raise the dead.. You've got to know when it's dead.

You've got to know when it's over. Let me tell you something.. I've got the gift of good-bye. It's the tenth spiritual gift, I believe in good-bye.. It's not that I'm hateful, it's that I'm faithful, and I know whatever God means for me to have He'll give it to me. And if it takes too much sweat I don't need it. Stop begging people to stay.

Let them go!!

If you are holding on to something that doesn't belong to you and was never intended for your life, then you need to......

LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to past hurts and pains .......

LET IT GO!!!

If someone can't treat you right, love you back, and see your worth.......

LET IT GO!!!

If someone has angered you..

LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to some thoughts of evil and revenge.....

LET IT GO!!!

If you are involved in a wrong relationship or addiction... ..

LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to a job that no longer meets your needs or talents

LET IT GO!!!

If you have a bad attitude.... ...

LET IT GO!!!

If you keep judging others to make yourself feel better......

LET IT GO!!!

If you're stuck in the past and God is trying to take you to a new level in Him.........

LET IT GO!!!

If you are struggling with the healing of a broken relationship. ....

LET IT GO!!!

If you keep trying to help someone who won't even try to help themselves.. ....

LET IT GO!!!

If you're feeling depressed and stressed ............

LET IT GO!!!

If there is a particular situation that you are so used to handling yourself and God is saying 'take your hands off of it,' then you need to......

LET IT GO!!!

'The Battle is the Lord's!'

Pumpkin Layer Cake Recipe

2010-09-19T23:36:00.000-07:00

So moist and delicious! One change I didn't have pumpkin pie spice so I used Jamaican Allspice. It was yum! It's a "keeper"!
Also, I didn't slice it in fours due to time contstraints. I did two layers and it worked just fine.
Pumpkin Layer Cake

Homeschool 2010-2011

2010-09-07T21:29:00.000-07:00

Eldest grade 10:
Alpha Omega SOS: Bible, Lang Arts, Reading, Science, Social Studies
Rod and Staff Art: Lessons in Perspective Drawing: Art

Middle grade 6:
Alpha Omega SOS: Bible, Lang Arts, Reading, Science, Social Studies
Rod and Staff: Grade 6 Artpac: Art
Penmanship: Handwriting Without Tears

Youngest grade 2:
Christian Light Publications:
Light Units in Bible, Lang Arts, Reading, Science, Social Studies.
Alpha Omega: Math; Horizons and Penmanship; Horizons
Rod and Staff: Grade 2 Artpac: Art

I will write more as time allows.

new knit dishcloths

2010-08-03T00:09:00.000-07:00

They aren't blocked but here they are. They will go great in our travel trailer. Two cloths from one ball of "peaches and cream" yarn. I also had a bit of yarn left over so I bought one more ball of the same color. I would like to make a couple more dishclothes. I would like to get 5 out of two balls. Both of these patterns are found free online.
The underneath one is the basic "Grandma's Favorite Dishcloth" The pattern is free here: DISH AND WASHCLOTH MANIA ( and many others similar as well)

The upper one ( one on top) is called the Darrell Waltrip Cloth. It was fun to make.
The pattern is found here: Knitting Knonsense

Enjoy and Happy Knitting!

Ok this is funny!! I never knew...

2010-07-31T14:03:00.001-07:00

The video is sure to bring a smile to your face. You can see that the cows are really enjoying the wash. Here is the video:
Watch video

He has a new "hairdo"

2010-07-29T21:22:00.000-07:00

Pain

2010-07-29T20:53:00.000-07:00

I have been experiencing excuciating pain. There is a place where people go when they are in pain that other people can not go with them. It is a "members only club" that no one wants to be a member of! I am going to the specialist tomorrow. I am scared. There is a part of me that doesn't want to be "weak", to let my family down.. to worry them. I do not like the tests. They are intrusive and scary. Please pray for me. Pray that I remember that I am not truly alone. I have the Great Physican on my side.

Revelations 21:4
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. (KJV)

shake n bake

2010-07-23T19:38:00.000-07:00

a recipe I am going to try.. seems easy enough. They say to make it taste even better. Coat your chicken with olive oil before shaking up.

*homemade shake n bake*
Ingredients

* 4 cups dry bread crumbs
* 1/3 cup vegetable oil
* 1 tablespoon salt
* 1 tablespoon paprika
* 1 tablespoon celery salt
* 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
* 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
* 1/4 teaspoon minced onion
* 1 pinch dried basil leaves
* 1 pinch dried parsley
* 1 pinch dried oregano

Directions

1. In a large resealable plastic bag combine the crumbs, oil, salt, paprika, celery salt, pepper, garlic salt, minced garlic, minced onion, basil, parsley and oregano. Seal bag and shake all ingredients together.

back from Camp and etcetera.

2010-07-11T01:34:00.000-07:00

Our youngest is back from camp and although he had a great time he is happy to be home. Here is a photo of him that I took when I was in Cordova ( where my DH is working) at the start of summer.

Here is a picture of the beautiful fuzzy blanket that my husband got us for our bed. While my husband is away at work My dog is keeping his side warm. He misses his "Daddy"

Here is me wearing my new pre-tied tichel . Waiting to pick DH up from the airport for a weekend home. I sure missed that hard-working man. We had a lovely time together. Although right as we were pulling up to get him to his plane. Some family member with an anger problem called and did say some very hurtful things, I realise now that satan was at work in this. But I felt so sad at my husband and at me. I am very sad to have this happen and I am tearing up even know thinking about this.

skirts

2010-07-08T02:09:00.000-07:00

I bought a skirt from this place recently and I very much like it. It is slimming and stain resistant.
Hannah Lise

vacation bible school

2010-06-13T20:04:00.000-07:00

It was an Egypt theme. They made bricks from straw and dirt.. Bought food at the "marketplace, played gamesLearned about the "One True God" and talked about their daily God sightings. They had a great time.

reminds me of mn

2010-06-10T15:24:00.000-07:00

But it is South Africa! The painting is called My house and the artist is Tandi Venter.

New stuff.

2010-06-10T14:56:00.000-07:00

Things I want to do this week.
try this to see if it would be good to take camping:

Orange creamsicle smoothie:

1 part orange-flavored instant drink mix (Tang)
1 part powdered milk
2 parts instant vanilla pudding

To use, stir 2 tablespoons of Creamsicle Drink Mix into 1 cup of cold
water.

It came from this site: Dawn's Kitchen which seems to have many yummy frugal recipes.

I also want to figure out how to budget using the program I got from the Budget Stretcher that was five dollars through a deal through the Hillbilly Housewife newsletter ( free )

I also want to finish the camisole I am knitting and take the younger boys to a park to use their razor scooter, and finish the health worksheet for their camp. If I can get this and my chores done I will be a happy homemaker. I also have to be on fluids all week as I have a lapband fill on monday. So we shall see how my energy levels are.

covenent

2010-06-01T16:52:00.000-07:00

what a beautiful word. It is raining and the sun is shining so you know what that means... Rainbows! I hope to see some.
By the way- isn't that a neat photo? I wonder if they hand-dyed it.

otterly amazing.

2010-05-29T23:05:00.000-07:00

Couldn't help it. Isn't this little guy cute? we spotted him and my husband got his pic. My favorite animal is the otter.

where have i been???

2010-05-22T18:05:00.000-07:00

I have been here:

I have been here:
with my husband. ( He is working!!! So thankful.) Will be back in a week to (wo)man the fort. See ya soon!

2010-04-15T18:57:00.000-07:00

* none of us will live one moment longer than our Father allows. Do not be tricked by any "miracle drink" It is a lie from the evil one.

Ecclesiastes 3:1
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

Job 14:5 "Since his days are determined, The number of his months is with You; And his limits You have set so that he cannot pass

Hebrews 9:27 And inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment,

beauty at home

2010-04-15T18:42:00.000-07:00

Well we are all beautiful in our Father's eyes. But sometimes it feels good to pamper ourselves after a long day. It feels so good to take a hot bath and to use scrub to exfoliate dead skin.But the other day when I was doing this I flipped over my "natural" apricot scrub and was dismayed to find alot of yucky chemicals in it. So here are some natural alternatives to that. Takes just a moment to make and would make really great gifts as well in your own kitchen. And men can use this too. My husband likes epsom salts to relax his muscles after a long day of work and sometimes I rub scrub into his hands, rinse and rub in hand cream before he goes to bed to alleviate cracked skin on his hands from working outside.
your own kitchen. ( credit for this goes to shine magazine)

Most girly girls dream of a collection of lotions and potions with fancy French labels, but a trip to the produce aisle can be a super natural way to treat your skin free from scary science lab ingredients. Equally exciting, making your own sugar scrub is a heck of a lot easier on your wallet than buying one. Most of these beauty recipes below are cheap, cheap, cheap, but the question is: would you be up for smearing banana on your face or bathing in egg whites?

1. Detoxifying Bath Salts

¾ cup Epsom salts
¼ cup baking soda
4 drops of grapefruit essential oil (or scent of your choice)

Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. One at a time, add drops of essential oil, stirring after each addition. Add salts to warm bath water.

2. Wake Me Up Scrub
from Body + Soul
¼ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup sugar
15 drops peppermint essential oil
½ cup used coffee grounds from a freshly brewed pot

Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and thoroughly blend. Transfer the scrub to a wide mouthed jar, and store in a cool place until ready to use. The scrub will keep for one to two weeks, longer if refrigerated.

3. Almond Orange Scrub
from Self
1 handful almonds
1 orange peel
1 cup grapeseed or olive oil

Blitz all ingredients in a blender or food processor for an antioxidant rich scrub.

4. Simplest Super Scrub

½ cup brown sugar
½ cup grapeseed oil (olive oil would be great, too)
splash of vanilla extract

Stir to combine and slough away!

5. Sweet and Spicy Sugar Scrub
adapted from Care2
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup white granulated sugar
¾ cup almond, hazelnut, or coconut oil
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 teaspoons ginger
2 teaspoons nutmeg

In a medium-sized bowl, combine all ingredient. Using a whisk, blend ingredients thoroughly, making sure to break up any lumps of brown sugar or spice.

6. Oatmeal Yogurt Mask For All Skin Types
1 tablespoon oatmeal, finely ground
1 tablespoon plain yogurt
a few drops of honey

Add the yogurt to the oatmeal in a small bowl and mix together. Warm a few drop of honey. To do this, warm a spoon under hot water for a minute, then add a few drops of honey to the spoon. Stir the honey into the yogurt and oatmeal mixture. Apply the mask to face. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse off with several splashes of warm water.

7. Green Papaya Brightening Mask For All Skin Types
from Body + Soul

½ cup unripe papaya, diced
1 teaspoon plain yogurt
1 teaspoon honey

Blend ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Apply to clean skin and leave on 10 minutes. Rinse off using cool water and pat dry. Finish by applying a gentle moisturizer.

8. Avocado Mask for Dry Skin
½ avocado
¼ cup honey

Mash the avocado in a bowl, then stir in honey. Apply to skin and leave for 10 minutes, then rinse.

9. Banana Mask for Oily Skin
1 banana, preferably ripe (you can keep ripe bananas in the freezer. Let it thaw before using)
1 tbsp honey
an orange or a lemon

Mix the banana and honey together in a bowl. Add a few drops of juice from an orange or a lemon. Apply to face for 15 minutes, then rinse.

10. Classic Eye De-Puffer
2 chamomile tea bags or 2 slices cucumber

Make a cup of tea for you and a friend. Remove tea bags and place in refrigerator until chilled. Place cool tea bags on closed eyes for 10 minutes. Or put cucumber slices in fridge until chilled and place over closed eyes for 10 minutes.

11. Old-Fashioned Bubble Bath
from Real Simple
½ cup mild liquid hand or body soap
1 tablespoon sugar or honey
1 egg white

Mix ingredients together in a bowl and the entire mixture under running bath water as you draw your bath. Honey is a natural humectant, and the egg white helps create stronger, longer-lasting bubbles. For extra-dry skin, adda tablespoon of light oil, such as almond or light sesame.

12. Foaming Vanilla-Honey Bath
from Real Simple
1 cup light oil (almond, sunflower, or canola)
½ cup honey
½ cup mild liquid hand or body soap
1 tablespoon vanilla extract.

Mix ingredients together in a glass jar. To use, shake gently to remix and pour ¼ cup under running bath water.

from my husband

2010-03-24T14:41:00.000-07:00

This is so romantic!!!

Ok here goes. From a text message ( actually 2 too my blog)

Thinking baout my blue eyed girl, who's heart is true,
loving me. Loving you.
Holding hands, Holding hearts,
Knowing there is more to come
A life of love to travel on.

Three little boys who grow to fast.
A little house that holds us fast.
A little dog who guards at night
To God above who guides us right.

Without your love their are no good nights.

So that is from my dear sweet husband who is working far away from us. I love and miss him so.

Just a short little post

2010-03-16T22:53:00.000-07:00

To say that my middle boy is 11! It wasn't too long ago that he was a tiny baby. Oh how the time flies.

Assylum for German Homeschoolers?

2010-03-02T19:04:00.000-08:00

Article HERE, Thoughts?
One thing that really jumped out at me:
"No parental couple can offer a breadth of education [that can] replace experienced teachers," says Kraus, of the German Teachers' Association.

I am so thankful that I live in a country with homeschooling freedom. In a state with private homeschooling. Thank you HSLDA for all that you do. May God bless you and keep you.

my son's car design smiles

2010-02-22T15:14:00.000-08:00

because of time

2010-02-17T13:32:00.001-08:00

we have switched over to online homeschool.- time 4 learning It is much more then games. it has lesson plans and everything. so if you are stuck like I was check it out!

true love.

2010-02-13T18:05:00.000-08:00

basic meal - deluxe!

2009-12-31T14:36:00.000-08:00

Okay this is how I formulate a basic casserole. I am from MN which is the land of hotdish. Anything can be a casserole! So this is how we do it. First You need to decide what kind of casserole is it going to be, noodle ( can be macaroni, spaghetti, rice, potato or bean) Then Secondly you add the meat if you are adding meat that is. I look in my fridge and find leftover meat shredded chicken, ground beef-can be meatloaf even!, salmon ( hey it is alaska!), game meats, or I pull a can of tuna from the pantry. Thirdly veggies- easy part- a can of green beans, peas, corn, carrots, can bed frozen too, or cooked fresh. So you take these 3 items and you dump it in a buttered casserole dish. But it is dry! So we have to add some sauce. So here comes number Four aka the sauce. Is is Italian- then add a can of pasta sauce, mexican- cream of chicken soup and salsa, basic home-cooking- can of mushroom soup, garlic and pepper.Asian: golden mushroom and soy sauce ( I use bragg's liquid aminos) The list goes on and on. What is in your pantry is what is in your dish! If you are feeding a larger group of people use a can of milk with the cream soup, or a family size can, or add a can of tomato sauce with the pasta sauce to stretch it out. Then we decide about the optional number 4 and 5 Add-ins and Add-ons. Add-ins are items you add to the mixed in dish like- olives, onions, shredded cheese, mushrooms, herbs, pepper and salt. Add-ons are what you put on top, crushed chips or crackers, chow mein noodles, more cheese, sliced tomatoes ( I wouldn't be from MN if I didn't mention tater-tots or frozen french fries!)... Then bake in oven at 350 until bubbly and hot all the way through. Serve with something like buns, salad, dessert. But this is truly a stand alone dish. You can have every food group in one pan! Easy clean up as well... Start cleaning out your fridge and have fun! And if you need any inspiration just look HERE to see what happened when I typed in tuna hotdish! Yum yum.

a pretty watercolor

2009-12-27T21:23:00.000-08:00

By Breton. Here is a link to more by the same artist: Breton watercolors

Yikes. I think I know..

2009-12-24T20:52:00.000-08:00

What My God is talking about here...Jeremiah 10: 2 Thus says the LORD, "Do not learn the way of the nations, And do not be terrified by the signs of the heavens Although the nations are terrified by them; 3 For the customs of the peoples are delusion; Because it is wood cut from the forest, The work of the hands of a craftsman with a cutting tool. 4 They decorate it with silver and with gold; They fasten it with nails and with hammers So that it will not totter.

Modest Handmaidens

2009-12-22T20:41:00.001-08:00

took their time and made a great links page. Please take the time and check them out. HERE

Festival Of Lights

2009-12-18T22:51:00.000-08:00

lovely photos my husband took

2009-12-16T03:51:00.000-08:00

He said, "Where's the camera I see some art!"

want to know more about hoar frost- if so check this out: Hoarfrost Formation

Have you used your imagination today-

2009-12-15T21:47:00.000-08:00

One Inch Tall

If you were only one inch tall, you'd ride a worm to school.
The teardrop of a crying ant would be your swimming pool.
A crumb of cake would be a feast
And last you seven days at least,
A flea would be a frightening beast
If you were one inch tall.

If you were only one inch tall, you'd walk beneath the door,
And it would take about a month to get down to the store.
A bit of fluff would be your bed,
You'd swing upon a spider's thread,
And wear a thimble on your head
If you were one inch tall.

You'd surf across the kitchen sink
upon a stick of gum.
You couldn't hug your mama, you'd just have to hug her thumb.
You'd run from people's feet in fright,
To move a pen would take all night,
(This poem took fourteen years to write--
'Cause I'm just one inch tall). - Shel Silverstein

Pay if Forward

2009-12-13T03:37:00.000-08:00

I have been gifted in the Pay It Forward Blog exchange. I recieved this lovely set for my kitchen. from Mrs.Smith at Our Plain and Simple Life.
It's almost too pretty to use! I also received this lovely set of coasters ( my wedding colors!) from Mrs. Booth over at Suburban Homestead but I didn't want to hide them under a cup so I added ribbons and hung them on my living room wall.

PIF

2009-12-11T03:05:00.001-08:00

Pay if Forward. I got some goodies in the mail. From two sweet sisters!!! More info to come. Now I get to PIF!!!!

end of our rope(s)

2009-12-10T23:52:00.000-08:00

This week has been pretty tame. We have been recooperating from surgery and getting ready for Hanukkah. HUsband showed the boys how to make rope- he made a rope-machine and they employed some of mommy's embroidery floss to create friendship bracelets.

interesting rope-making website:
Rope Maker

7 worst foods to consume.- Yikes.

2009-12-10T02:12:00.001-08:00

Read this before you go grocery shopping- please.

cheese danish YU MMY!

2009-12-06T19:36:00.000-08:00

Note: I doubled it and put it in an 11x13 pyrex pan.

EASY CHEESE DANISH

2 (8 oz.) pkgs. cream cheese
3/4 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
3 tsp. lemon juice
1 egg yolk
2 cans crescent rolls
1 egg white
1 tsp. water

Butter a 9x13 inch pan. Spread 1 can of crescent rolls in bottom of pan. Press seams together with fingers.

Mix cream cheese, vanilla, lemon juice and egg yolk together; spread over rolls. Cover with second can of rolls.

Mix and spread on top 1 teaspoon water and egg white. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes.

Although the recipe calls for a 9x13 pan, I use a slightly larger one, preferring the Danish not so thick.

He is the Great Physican

2009-12-02T23:07:00.001-08:00

My husband and son made it through their tonsillectomy and adnoidectomy and they are already starting to eat soft foods. I have to keep an eye on my younger son's temperature though as he has a slight fever. I was so thankful to have a sister in Christ as our nurse! We are so blessed. God is so good! I am hoping this takes care of my husband's sleep apnea and my son's need for so many allergy medications to breathe.
(also the night before my son had to go to the emergency room because he tried to break a piece of scrap sheetrock with his head like kung-fu guys do. He sprained his neck. So he is doubly recuperating.)

My brave little man!

My "bigger" brave man!

My "Nurse's Helper" middle brother.

And my other "Nurse's helper" Teddy Bear.

photo update.

2009-11-28T20:51:00.000-08:00

My husband and I in front of our newly painted bedroom wall.

The room almost finished for our middle son.

What happens when you complain too much to dad about how hard it is to hold the ice pack on your boo-boo. Hee hee.

Now he is all "recovered"

and finally (if you are super-squeamish don't scroll down) but we caught three mice ( not blind mice!) in our pantry. My husband has "gone to war" with them and is currently at the home-improvement store buying more ammo aka glue traps. Here is a photo of one of the guilty parties. Unfortunately he is rather cute... but destructive and dirty. I have been wiping down everything with a tea tree oil soap solution. On a funnier note my little dog for some reason thinks that when we catch a mouse he is the one who actually did it and walks around with his head held high and his tail in tha air. We all pat him and say "Good job!" It is rather funny.
So

without

further

ado
*
*
*

* here is pipsqueak* First photo I ever took of a live mouse. He doesn't look much like "mickey" does he?

crochet and more

2009-11-24T02:03:00.000-08:00

some free patterns. I made the bible cover for my husband. I would suggest doubling the yarn though..

one pot cooking= less dishes.

2009-11-23T18:04:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to cut down on the number of dishes I have had to wash. I was pretty good at doing this when we lived in the rv but since I now have a "normal stove" I have noticed that I spend much time doing dishes. And this isn't my favourite chore! So this past week I have gone back to my one pot cooking. Tonight this is what I made for supper. Broccoli, Macaroni and cheese and Beef sausages. This is how I did it: First I put a large pot of water on to boil- into that I dumped a bag of frozen broccoli and the sausages. I let this cook a while. After has cooked until almost done I dumped in three boxes of mac and cheese. When macaroni is cooked I drain into colander. - put the sausages on a plate and then dump the broccoli mac mixture back in. I follow the mac and cheese directions except I add some sour cream to make it more creamy and flavorful. I also sprinkle with seasoning. Serve. So In one pot I was able to hit all the food groups and best of all ONE POT TO WASH! Yesterday I made a one pot meal of beans rice and chicken. So what can you make in one pot? Be creative!

What do you do when a friend hurts you?

2009-11-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

What if the friend is a christian? What if she isn't? Is it the same?

no H E double tooth-picks?

2009-11-02T18:07:00.000-08:00

watch this:

HERE

Moosely just hanging out..

2009-10-26T00:28:00.000-07:00

Right outside our door. A female moose. She took a nap in the leaves we raked up then just hung around a bit.

She was a little bit camera
shy. every time I went to snap a pic she turned around.

Daddy's home!

2009-10-21T00:55:00.000-07:00

We watched Faith like Potatoes
A very good christian movie. I recommend it.
The boys were very interested in this
movie.

Daddy and I snuggled while watching the movie as well.

It is good to have my husband home. The only person missing is our eldest as he is at school. I await the holiday's to see him again. Then it will feel like home.

pies

2009-10-21T00:35:00.000-07:00

Here are some pies I made for a bake sale. I sold 5 pies at 20.00 each. The money all goes to missions. I also sold fudge.

flu vaccine?

2009-10-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

I am glad I saw this. Yuck yuck and more yuck.
HERE

Sing a song unto the Lord!

2009-10-06T01:22:00.000-07:00

what a good song site:

Heavenly Midis

Gas prices in Anchorage

2009-10-05T21:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday:
$3.24

Week ago:
$3.28

Month ago:
$3.26

Year ago:
$3.99

How about your neck of the woods?

I'm not who I was ( for my sister)

2009-10-03T13:56:00.001-07:00

Who can wash away my sin?

Who can make me white as snow?

Paula When I hear this song I think of you. I love you and it is not to late. We can all be restored.
WATCH AND LISTEN HERE

(home) school portraits 2009

2009-09-24T22:27:00.000-07:00

My two youngest.

Middle G

Youngest G

now I have to figure out how to get eldest G's pic....

termination dust

2009-09-24T19:48:00.000-07:00

Oh no! That ain't powdered sugar up there.
termination dust is alaskan slang defined as:
The first, light dusting of snow; on the very tips of the mountains. It's a warning. The first, big snow is just around the corner. This of course, triggers a huge shopping frenzy

still sick

2009-09-22T18:44:00.000-07:00

ughhh. I wish I was better. I so want to be better!

the week thus far

2009-09-16T16:56:00.000-07:00

The door I painted per husband's request. ( I will paint other door and window trim when I kick this nasty bronchitis)

I bought some long-johns at Sam's club. I laughed so hard when I put them on because they were sooooo long. I looked like a Shar-Pei! I was able to fold them up and they are very nice and warm as winter is in the air. But I thought it was funny! I guess these are "amazon long-johns" ( janes?)

and my dog before and after the groomer. ( needs no words does it?)

just as I imagined it read

2009-09-16T16:46:00.000-07:00

When my darling was home

2009-09-13T16:30:00.000-07:00

some random photos:
Him taking a photo of me with the new camera

my husband holding a friend's baby

and our addition getting worked on.

church luncheon

2009-09-13T16:19:00.000-07:00

We were entertained by some lovely singers from Africa. ( notice the lovely modest dresses and headcoverings?)

Then the Director of Youth got to try on a "typical" african garment. He's under there somewhere. and yes christians and not just muslims dress like this.

My youngest drinking punch and working hard on being a gentlemen during the presentation. They did very well and I am so proud of them!

The lads in concert.

2009-09-13T16:06:00.000-07:00

The boys had a great time at The Lads concert. They really liked the song- My Best Friend is the Creator of the Universe.

We also brought a little girl we knew.

The boys are still singing the songs!

suet from scratch

2009-09-13T15:09:00.001-07:00

beef suet ( free from the meat market of the grocery store)

melted down. ( my boys kept asking what smells good. ughhhh!) then. I kept the pure liquid fat and threw out the rest. I put the liquid fat in a bowl and mixed in raisins that had been plumped in water and oats.

Then I put the whole thing into square pyrex dishes and let set-up. It comes out of the pan easily.

I put it in a suet-holder I found on clearance for 2.00 ( I also have a second one stored away for this winter that I got free off freecycle.)

and another look...

so far our favourite visitor has been the stellar jay.

Lord open my heart.

2009-09-05T17:00:00.000-07:00

"The gospel is not a doctrine of the tongue, but of life. It cannot be grasped
by reason and memory only, but it is fully understood when it possesses the
whole soul and penetrates to the inner recesses of the heart."
- John Calvin

"hack" your swiffer and green cleaners

2009-09-04T19:27:00.001-07:00

I really like swiffer wetjet. It is a handylittle cleaning machine. But it isn't economical or green.
First I ordered these from ebay:
( I know I know there are knit and crochet patterns but I have heard they don't work so well...)

Economically they are well worth the money. The swiffer pads are expensive!

I have already tried refilling my swiffer bottle and it was hard to do... You'd think they wouldn't want you to do that or something. Hee hee..Anyhow here is the "easy" way to refill the bottle.

Fill a bowl with hot, HOT water. Tap water probably won't cut it- microwave it or heat it on the stove instead.

Immerse the cap of the Swiffer bottle in the hot water for about a minute. This softens the plastic enough that the cap can be removed easily.

Wrap the dish-towel around the cap of the bottle to get a good grip, and twist hard. The cap should come right off.

Rinse the bottle thoroughly (you don't want to mix incompatible chemicals).

And check this out courtesy of Mary Jane's Farm:
Check out these amazing homemade cleaning supplies for every room in the house:

1. Powdered Laundry Soap
1 bar Castile soap, grated
2 cups Borax
2 cups washing soda
1 cup baking soda
Combine all of the ingredients and store in a covered jar. Use ¼ cup per load.

2. Lavender Laundry Softener
1 cup dried lavender buds
1 quart white vinegar
2-4 drops lavender essential oil
Combine the mixture and let it sit for a week.

3. All-purpose cleaner
1 tbsp white vinegar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp Castile soap
1 tbsp Borax
Combine all the ingredients and add to a spray bottle.

4. Tub Scrub
1 cup baking soda
¼ cup salt
10 drops citrus essential oil
5 drops tea tree essential oil
Combine all the ingredients and store in an airtight tub.

5. Carpet Deodorizer
1 cup Borax
1 cup baking soda
10 drops essential oils

Combine and store in an airtight tub.

6. Oven Cleaner
1 small box baking soda
1 cup liquid Castile Soap

Combine ingredients and mix until smooth. Apply to a cloth and wipe clean.

7. Dusting Spray
1 cup distilled water
3 drops essential oils
Combine in a spray bottle and use with a cotton cloth.

8. Citrus Degreaser
½ cup lemon juice
¼ cup baking soda
5 to 10 drops citrus essential oils
Combine to make a paste and use a damp cloth to wipe off.

random week

2009-09-02T21:21:00.000-07:00

Made pies for secret sisters at church and family friends- They are apple, blueberry, rhubarb, and strawberry with a sprinkle of cinnamon, sugar and flour

and a heart to let the steam out.

The two "youngers" and Teddy Bear

Teddy Bear guarding his new "cookie" (bone)

And a misty morning view of the mountains from my front step

And that's all folks!

tram to the top of the mountain

2009-09-02T21:03:00.000-07:00

Mount Alyeska tram., Girdwood Alaska
Getting ready to board.

We are down here. But we are going to that little place up there. ( can you see it?)

Now we are up on the top. Where we can look down at the resort.

eating lunch on top of a mountain.

Looking at the snow on the mountains. ( Gavin is a little bit upset because he got "in trouble" for sneaking hot cocoa into the museum)

Back at the bottom. Funny photo of Gavin and a bear statue that looks into the resort from outside the window. ( doesn't it look like the bear is hugging his reflection ?

gold panning

2009-09-02T20:50:00.000-07:00

We went to a Gold mine last Friday on our trip to the tram ( which will be covered in the next post)
\

The boys each got to try their hands at being a gold miner:

Gregory got some gold flake. Gavin got gold flake, a garnet and an amethyst.

Then on the way out we saw this funny sign.

We learned much about gold and had bunches of fun too. I am glad we were able to do this activity.

salmon soup

2009-09-01T12:31:00.000-07:00

My sons cooked dinner the other day. We all went to the local farmers market and got some fresh produce.

Then they chopped it up.

sometimes they had to use "muscle power"

Ready to cook.- ( green beans, white potatoes, red potatoes, dill, cilantro, carrots, green and white onions, and tomatoes.) We added a salmon fillet sprinkled with Old Bay Seasoning, and some slices of butter, milk to cover it all and some chicken bouillon cubes to taste....

served with wheatine crumbles and cheese sprinkles.. Delicious.

We had enough to feed 5 for dinner. Enough for leftovers for the next day and a large Tupperware to give to a family down the street.

'None so blind as those who will not see'

2009-08-26T17:50:00.000-07:00

Idiom Definitions for 'None so blind as those who will not see'
This idiom is used when people refuse to accept facts presented to them. ('None so deaf as those who will not hear' is an alternative.)

As a headcoverer in a non-headcovering church I found this ironic. Here is a photo from my son's weekly sunday school pamphlet.

and look again.

It's Hannah. The story about a woman that pleased God and her prayers were answered.
And her is me doing a pretty good impression.( don't ya think?)

and here are some verses.
For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Christ, ' and will deceive many. … and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people (Matthew 24:5, 11).

For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect--if that were possible. See, I have told you ahead of time (Matthew 24:24-25).

Trust in Yahweh with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear Yahweh and shun evil (Proverbs 3:5-7).

Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31-32).

"Now I am praising you because [as you say] you have kept me in your remembrance in all things and at present still do have me in your thinking, even as also you are holding fast to those things which were delivered to me to be handed down to you, which I also delivered to you to be passed on to succeeding generations. Moreover, I desire you to know that the head of every man is the Christ, and the woman's head is the man, and the head of the Christ is God the Father. Every man while praying or prophesying [giving out the word of God in the public assembly, which word he received by divine revelation] having a shawl hanging down over his head dishonors his head. But every woman while praying or prophesying with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for this would be one and the same thing as if she had her head shaved. For, assuming that a woman is uncovered, let her also cut her hair close. But since it is dishonorable for a woman to be shaven or have her hair cropped close, let her put a shawl down over her head. For, indeed, a male individual is morally obligated not to cover his head in that manner since he is so constituted as to be the derived image and glory of God. But the woman is the glory of a man. For a man is not out of a woman as a source, but a woman out of a man. Assuredly, a man was not created for the sake of the woman, but a woman for the sake of the man. On this account the woman is under moral obligation to be having a sign of [the man's] authority [over her] on her head because of the angels.

Nevertheless, neither is a woman [complete] apart from a man, nor a man [complete] apart from a woman in God, for even as the woman came out of the man as a source, thus also does the man owe his existence to the intermediate agency of the woman. But all things are out of God as a source. Come to a decision among yourselves. Is it seemly or fitting for a woman to be engaged in prayer to God not wearing the shawl hanging down over her head? Does not the innate sense of propriety itself based upon the Objective difference in the constitution of things [the difference between the male and the female] teach you that if indeed a man allows his hair to grow long, it is a disgrace to him, but if a woman allows her hair to grow long, it is her glory? Because her head of hair has been given to her for a permanent covering [answering in character to but not a substitute for the shawl]. If, as is the case, anyone presumes to be cantankerous [about the moral obligation of a woman to wear a head covering when engaged in public prayer in the assembly], as for us, we do not have such a custom [namely, that of a woman praying with uncovered head], neither do the assemblies of God."- I CORINTHIANS 11:2-16

Here is a long but good article I found about headcovering:
fern's homestead

Daddy these are for you.

2009-08-25T15:52:00.001-07:00

"Little One" wants you to know that he is "christian cowboy".

"Take a picture for Dad!"

and here are some improvement photos:

( skirting with treated plywood)
and..

Do you think they used enough spray foam? ( notice the sarcasm? lol)

Much love, The wifey

Freecycle bird feeder

2009-08-25T15:26:00.000-07:00

My boys and I are "beautifying" our place on a budget. I saw a bird-feeder on freecycle and I thought not only can we enjoy watching the birds but we can also learn about the common birds in Alaska.

The birds are very fearful and I told the boys that it may take a while for them to feel comfortable at the "bird cafe". But one little brave fellow made a "grab and go" almost immediately! ( I was hiding behind window to take this photo)

My "little one" is already an avid birdwatcher!

Then I was researching birdfood recipes and I came upon this really interesting FRUGAL recipe
see it HERE
I plan on making it this weekend. Now I just need to call the butcher and "beg for scraps!"

this means war- frugal wasp traps

2009-08-23T14:39:00.000-07:00

on wasps.
I have been stung numerous times this summer. Yesterday I was stung and it hurt all day.

So I looked up on the internet how to make a trap. Suprisingly it is very simple and inexpensive and they work!

I baited two traps with salmon. I counted up the wasps and with the two traps I netted 27 wasps.
See photos and directions below.

First you take a gallon jug. I used one milk jug and one jug from windshield cleaner. Then you cut a hatch in said jug. ( I roll up the extra bit like a tent door.)
Next you take a one to two inch square of fish and wrap in salmon. Hang the salmon from the top of the jug and let dangle in area by hatch. Then fill jug with water mixed with a squirt of dishsoap. ( this breaks the surface tension of the water). The greedy hornets/wasps need a one inch take-off area so after chewing off a piece of meat they will drown themselves taking off. Some do get away but that is ok as they tell all their buddies about the meat and so more show up. Add more water, soap, and bait as need be. Also make sure to scoop out the dead insects otherwise they will make little life-rafts for the other hornets. A very quick, frugal and poison-free alternative to commercial insect repellents/traps.

and

Did you know I am a superhero(ine)?

2009-08-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

Cuz I am! My shirt says so.

It really does. See-

And hey look it is a smaller size than I have worn in years. ( go lapband bandits!)

Want to know where to get them? You can order them here: True Wisdom Mommy
They come in sizes small through XXXL and she ships super(hero) fast.

Last night I used my "super-powers" to host a sleepover with my two youngest sons and their friend.

Whew. This superhero(ine) needs a break!

New camera photos

2009-08-21T19:40:00.000-07:00

new camera.

*and some test photos*

Not the best photo of me but still- it is all in focus!

A willing model- My youngest

and again- playing with a favorite toy: playdough

and for my husband the boy's baseball photo

Two photos of the mobile home remodel (no more mortgage- Yeah!)

and

and our dog that matches our carpet.

Warning: wolf in sheep's clothing.

2009-08-21T19:31:00.000-07:00

I don't usually pass on forwards but this one is true. I did some research on my own.

Beware of This Book- Oprah is pushing it
BEWARE!!

This has also been made into a movie...

and you can read a sample of it on Amazon, if you'd like....

Here:
LINK

Please take note of the information below and pass it along to others.
Schools are distributing this Book to children through the Scholastic Book Club.

The name of the book is Conversations with
God.. James Dobson talked about this book twice this week. It is devastating. Parents, churches and Christian schools need to be aware of it.

Two particular books are: Conversations with
God and Conversations with God for Teens, written by Neale D. Walsch.

They sound harmless enough by their titles alone. The books have been on the New York Times best sellers list for a number of weeks, and they make truth of the statement, "Don't judge a book by its cover or title."

The author purports to answer various questions asked by kids using the "voice of God". However, the "answers" that he gives are not Bible-based and go against the very infallible word of
God.

For instance (and I paraphrase):

When a girl asks the question "Why am I a
lesbian?" His answer is that she was 'born that way' because of genetics
(just as you were born right-handed, with brown eyes, etc.). Then he tells
her to go out and "celebrate" her differences.

Another girl poses the question "I am living
with my boyfriend. My parents say that I should marry him because I am living in sin. Should I marry him?"

His reply is, "Who are you sinning against?
Not me, because you have done nothing wrong."

Another question asks about God's
forgiveness of sin. His reply "I do not forgive anyone because there is
nothing to forgive. There is no such thing as right or wrong and that is
what I have been trying to tell everyone, do not judge people. People have
chosen to judge one another and this is wrong, because the rule is "'judge
not lest ye be judged."

Not only are these books the false doctrine
of the devil, but in some instances quote (in error) the Word of God.

And the list goes on. These books (and
others like it) are being sold to schoolchildren through (The Scholastic
Book Club), and we need to be aware of what is being fed to our children.

The children of our nation are under attack.
So I pray that you be sober and vigilant about teaching your children the
Word of God, and guarding their exposure to worldly mediums, because our
adversary, the devil, roams about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may
devour (1 Peter 5:8). We know that lions usually hunt for the slowest,
weakest and YOUNGEST of its prey.

Pass this on to every Believer you know..
And, if you are in doubt, check out the books yourself.

homeschooling: bee video

2009-08-20T22:03:00.000-07:00

Definitely worth a watch. ( I borrowed it from the library)
Now my boys know not to be a drone ( lazy) or a hornet ( a bully). But to be a "busy bee" because they sure get their work done!
All joking aside it truly is an exceptional video. You even get to see a queen bee's "wedding flight"!

homeschooling with background music

2009-08-19T12:53:00.000-07:00

Today we started homeshooling for the 2009 school year. We still haven't recieved our ebay purchase curriculum *gulp* so I ended up having to pick up a few workbooks from Barnes and Nobles to fill in the gaps. They are inexpensive, child-size and bright colored. o they'll do in a pinch.

"Flash Skills are colorful mini-workbooks designed to focus on specific skills necessary to master math and reading. Eye-catching artwork and full-color stickers motivate, reward, and reinforce learning." - Barnes and Nobles

The boys were restless today so I went to switch on my old standby. - light classical. But since we do not have tv channels anymore we didn't have background music! So I did an Internet search and came up with this nifty site.:
Classical Webcast
Classical music stations from all over the world.

Because as we all know:

"Music hath charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak." William Congreve

"Music has charms to soothe a savage breast," spoken by Almeria in Act I, Scene 1. (The word "breast" is often misquoted as "beast".)

Thanks to WikiAnswers I won't be misquoting that anymore!

camera broke

2009-08-18T00:24:00.000-07:00

grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

Photos from my life

2009-08-17T17:40:00.000-07:00

A crochet plant hanger I designed to fit a cool-whip container

I thought these colors were so pretty. ( pickles in the making)

A 60 cent blessing for a boy in need.

A frugal birthday gift. ( all it cost was time)

Rice Bags ( bean bags) for a two-year olds birthday party.

The coffee-can (catcher) I spray-painted and permanent marker decorated

Then I wrapped in Sunday comics and topped with some ribbon I had around the house.

North to the Pole

2009-08-16T23:12:00.000-07:00

That's right. When we went to Chena we also went to the city of North Pole. There is a Santa there year around. Now my kids don't believe that Santa is a real guy but they got a kick out of it anyhow.

First of all youngest on his own. ( He said "I'm a little shy.")

Then the whole trio.

My youngest posing with a life size stuffed (toy) polar bear

Then of course they have to try the sled!

Well that was our trip to North Pole's Santa House.

Headcovering Tute ( per request)

2009-08-16T22:36:00.000-07:00

First of all why is this woman wearing this on her head? The answer to your question can be found here: Scroll Publishing

Here is my headcovering:

"say cheese"

First of all I fold the square into an UNEVEN triangle.

Then I place the triangle onto my head large triangle out.

Then I tuck triangle under the ties. ( which I double tie)

Then I take the two "wings" and I place together and secure with a clippie. ( I do mine upside-down )

And that is how you can turn any square into a "no wings" covering.

stop and smell the.. daisies.

2009-08-16T11:41:00.000-07:00

Lord Jesus when I am having a "Martha" day please help me to remember this poem.

Daisies
If I had my life to live over, I'd dare to make more mistakes next time.
I'd relax, I would limber up. I would be sillier than I have been this trip.
I would take fewer things seriously. I would take more chances.
I would climb more mountains and swim more rivers.
I would eat more ice cream and less beans.
I would perhaps have more actual troubles,
but I'd have fewer imaginary ones.

You see, I'm one of those people who live sensibly and sanely, hour after hour,
day after day. Oh, I've had my moments, and if I had to do it over again,
I'd have more of them. In fact, I'd try to have nothing else.
Just moments, one after another, instead of living
so many years ahead of each day.

I've been one of those persons who never goes anywhere
without a thermometer, a hot water bottle,
a raincoat and a parachute.
If I had it to do again, I would
travel lighter than I have.

If I had my life to live over, I would start barefoot earlier
in the spring and stay that way later in the fall.
I would go to more dances.
I would ride more merry-go-rounds.
I would pick more daisies.

....by Nadine Stair, adapted from an essay by Don Herold

Life in Alaska - none can compare!

2009-08-15T14:53:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from our camping trip up to Chena to see Daddy. ( Daddy's building a bridge and we miss him so!)

First off my romantic DH surprised me with roses when we arrived ( after 8 hours in the car). It was a lovely surprise.

Then two photos of DH. First one is him standing by the campsite whistling for the dog but it looks like the caption should say "Man's quest for fire fulfilled!" and a bubble coming from his mouth "Ohhh pretty!" Hee hee.

and next is actually the last night we are there. My husband is cooking dinner on the campfire. There is a cast-iron pan somewhere in there! Suprisingly it turned out well.

Here is my lovely middle son. He is such a happy camper!

Then I saw this pic of my eldest son and I knew right away who he reminded me of. Now all the people can stop searching because Bigfoot has been found!

Old photo:

New photo (of course it would be a teenage boy!):

The very dangerous sleeping bag shark. AKA Teddy Bear.:

Then here I am on camping day 1.

The last night camping. Swollen from hives and stings. Haven't been near a bath or plumbing for days. Cooking meals for three kids, husband and dog... I earned my badge.

My youngest on the trip home. Shhhhh don't wake "the baby"!

Whew well that's enough for now. Next time I will post pics about the north pole. So you all come back now you hear-

Daniel in the Lion's Den

2009-08-11T16:32:00.000-07:00

painted by: Briton Riviere

I like this very much. I would like it on my wall.

just there for the pickin'

2009-08-09T14:13:00.001-07:00

Cranberry-raspberries picked in Chena Alaska. Made into jelly.

salmon

2009-08-05T20:14:00.000-07:00

A friend from church took my eldest son "J" to the peninsula fishing and he brought back some gorgeous salmon.

cleaned and in the sink. So pretty!

My son J sealing them up

Finally all sealed. ( this is a photo of some of them- he got more! ) We were able to share some with a needy family. The rest went in the freezer or with us on our camping trip. They were so yummy wrapped in tinfoil over a campfire. What a blessing!

feeling the heat

2009-07-06T14:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry if I have been remiss in posting. It's been hot! ( for Alaska ) Yesterday was 74 degrees faranheit. It's 2 pm right now and it is 72. I am hiding in the shade of the house.
The photo above is of turnagain arm, cook inlet anchorage alaska. Not too far from here. Not that we see much sunset right now...

A++ Rhubarb Cobbler

2009-06-19T20:44:00.000-07:00

My husband harvested rhubarb. What a blessing! I modified a rhubarb cobbler recipe and it turned out wonderful. We served it warm over ice-cream.

A++ Rhubarb Cobbler

preheat oven to 400 degrees

2 cups succanet
12 cups chopped rhubarb
4 tablespoons corn starch
2 tablespoons cold water

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons succanet
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 half-teaspoon salt

1 half- cup shortening
1 half-cup milk
2 eggs beaten

not for dough- for sprinkling over rhubarb in pan
4 tablespoons succanet
cinnamon to taste ( I use liberally)

In large saucepan mix cornstarch with cold water- then mix in 2 cups succanet and the rhubarb. Heat to simmering stirring occasionally until rhubarb is just softened. Grease 9x13 pan. Mix dry ingredients in and shortening together until small clumps. Stir in eggs and milk just until mixed Pour rhubarb in pan. Sprinkled with cinnamon and succanet. Drop teaspoons of dough onto sauce. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy.

drop those biscuits!

2009-06-18T19:56:00.000-07:00

Buttermilk Drop Biscuits

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon succcanet
1 cup chilled vegetable shortening or butter- sliced up
1 cup cold buttermilk ( I use reconstituted powdered buttermilk and it works just fine)

In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, succanet and salt. Add butter and smush together until mixture resembles rice clumps.

Add one cup of buttermilk and stir until resembles cookie dough ( don't overstir) if too dry add more buttermilk.

Drop on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 425 degrees.

Bake about 15 minutes, without opening the oven door, until the biscuits are golden brown.

Serve warm with butter, honey, jam, gravy, etc. Enjoy

prayercoverings

2009-06-06T14:10:00.001-07:00

scarves I drool over.
Here
If you are worried about slippage here is a good way to combat that:
HERE

climb

2009-06-01T12:50:00.000-07:00

""Come boy, climb up my trunk and swing from my branches and be happy.""
Author: Shel Silverstein

Beloved- if you ever feel down.

2009-05-09T23:45:00.000-07:00

We don't see with the eyes of God. Look at the animal God points out to Job.

Not quite a supermodel is it-

Job 40
15 "Take a look at the mighty hippopotamus. I made it, just as I made you. It eats grass like an ox. 16 See its powerful loins and the muscles of its belly. 17 Its tail is as straight as a cedar. The sinews of its thighs are tightly knit together. 18 Its bones are tubes of bronze. Its limbs are bars of iron. 19 It is a prime example of God's amazing handiwork. Only its Creator can threaten it. 20 The mountains offer it their best food, where all the wild animals play. 21 It lies down under the lotus plants, hidden by the reeds. 22 The lotus plants give it shade among the willows beside the stream. 23 It is not disturbed by raging rivers, not even when the swelling Jordan rushes down upon it. 24 No one can catch it off guard or put a ring in its nose and lead it away.

Who but God!!!

2009-05-07T23:52:00.000-07:00

This is beautiful. Read and simply worship. Worship before the throne of our King!!

Job 38 -

1 Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, 2 Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? 3 Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me.

4 Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. 5 Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it? 6 Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof; 7 When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy? 8 Or who shut up the sea with doors, when it brake forth, as if it had issued out of the womb? 9 When I made the cloud the garment thereof, and thick darkness a swaddlingband for it, 10 And brake up for it my decreed place, and set bars and doors, 11 And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further: and here shall thy proud waves be stayed?

12 Hast thou commanded the morning since thy days; and caused the dayspring to know his place; 13 That it might take hold of the ends of the earth, that the wicked might be shaken out of it? 14 It is turned as clay to the seal; and they stand as a garment. 15 And from the wicked their light is withholden, and the high arm shall be broken. 16 Hast thou entered into the springs of the sea? or hast thou walked in the search of the depth? 17 Have the gates of death been opened unto thee? or hast thou seen the doors of the shadow of death? 18 Hast thou perceived the breadth of the earth? declare if thou knowest it all. 19 Where is the way where light dwelleth? and as for darkness, where is the place thereof, 20 That thou shouldest take it to the bound thereof, and that thou shouldest know the paths to the house thereof? 21 Knowest thou it, because thou wast then born? or because the number of thy days is great? 22 Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow? or hast thou seen the treasures of the hail, 23 Which I have reserved against the time of trouble, against the day of battle and war? 24 By what way is the light parted, which scattereth the east wind upon the earth?

25 Who hath divided a watercourse for the overflowing of waters, or a way for the lightning of thunder; 26 To cause it to rain on the earth, where no man is; on the wilderness, wherein there is no man; 27 To satisfy the desolate and waste ground; and to cause the bud of the tender herb to spring forth? 28 Hath the rain a father? or who hath begotten the drops of dew? 29 Out of whose womb came the ice? and the hoary frost of heaven, who hath gendered it? 30 The waters are hid as with a stone, and the face of the deep is frozen. 31 Canst thou bind the sweet influences of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion? 32 Canst thou bring forth Mazzaroth in his season? or canst thou guide Arcturus with his sons? 33 Knowest thou the ordinances of heaven? canst thou set the dominion thereof in the earth? 34 Canst thou lift up thy voice to the clouds, that abundance of waters may cover thee? 35 Canst thou send lightnings, that they may go, and say unto thee, Here we are? 36 Who hath put wisdom in the inward parts? or who hath given understanding to the heart? 37 Who can number the clouds in wisdom? or who can stay the bottles of heaven, 38 When the dust groweth into hardness, and the clods cleave fast together? 39 Wilt thou hunt the prey for the lion? or fill the appetite of the young lions, 40 When they couch in their dens, and abide in the covert to lie in wait? 41 Who provideth for the raven his food? when his young ones cry unto God, they wander for lack of meat.

thrifty tips

2009-05-07T15:00:00.000-07:00

are HERE
I made the coffee can stilts when I was a little girl. They were lots of fun. Good ol' dangerous fun. ( that little girl in the pic is me)

homemaker blues

2009-05-06T14:15:00.001-07:00

I have the homemaker blues. I haven't wanted to do anything. I think I might have spring fever. The snow is finally all gone here and we are having some very pretty days. Although this week is supposed to be rainy. All week. Anyhow I really appreciated this post and I hope you do too:
HERE