tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-304889752024-03-23T14:25:51.752-04:00Life's Accidental JourneyMy name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.comBlogger287125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-86280498355106616982010-07-12T08:43:00.002-04:002010-07-12T10:46:53.836-04:00Dehydrator Flax Seed Crackers<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikN5MjFxqPfbhuayqQ9XbjP2z5wZWQ3ZasHzctFcBCcHTQTBE_0TmFBjS7lafSnpX1DxAWDzl33_vloKWcHWYcN1ZMPkdU9zCVAzo41uObiaV5bUYPVTuG5pHow1GHyl2Hlyun/s1600/TB13.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491650160883992418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikN5MjFxqPfbhuayqQ9XbjP2z5wZWQ3ZasHzctFcBCcHTQTBE_0TmFBjS7lafSnpX1DxAWDzl33_vloKWcHWYcN1ZMPkdU9zCVAzo41uObiaV5bUYPVTuG5pHow1GHyl2Hlyun/s320/TB13.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />We genuinely try, in our home, to avoid sugar. Now I know this looks hypocrital considering the post of just a few days ago showing all the sugar for the bake sales. And truthfully, we are hypocrits. We do *try* to avoid sugar. But the irony of this is that I love to bake sweets. And people seem to really like my baking. Cake and cookies and various candies seem to bless people in ways differently than flax crackers do.<br /><br />Don't ask me why.<br /><br /><br /><div>I'm not saying that we don't eat the sweets that I make on occasion. Because that would be beyond hypocritical. And a lie. But...as a general rule, I'm really blessed by a family that likes more nourishing foods as a general rule.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>So even though I can dip Nutter Butters in white chocolate bark with the best of them, the flax crackers are something I make much more often. I just don't photo them as much because they're not half as cute.</div><br /><br />**Recipe written below pictures.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2qN5UQoPo5dksAyh7MLDMNX6aIeEe21ubr_iG0OL6t4aghO9z4ru34VFKiN77p-0XmxGRjUREUuQX5G90lWXwU7Kb_eE2AK7S6C-Fe5JoHaC6bO0X7fnFbUj4VwJJh7X4Bz-0/s1600/TB!.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491613415191356642" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2qN5UQoPo5dksAyh7MLDMNX6aIeEe21ubr_iG0OL6t4aghO9z4ru34VFKiN77p-0XmxGRjUREUuQX5G90lWXwU7Kb_eE2AK7S6C-Fe5JoHaC6bO0X7fnFbUj4VwJJh7X4Bz-0/s320/TB!.jpg" /></a> This is the flax seed before it's ground. I grind it in a coffee grinder designated for stuff like this.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx7PaHGAuqRsKzJDgp09mgXnMI5NeJ2Ang3cVcvrpZM7BRHLTRO_8bkQ7mNnewQCUDwUbiobhtRtyqN0286Zm8B1-Rwl7sFHrvaJgVRPUAaYxRbnSi2QeUJGyKBKSMexFbTCPx/s1600/TB2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491613414384077154" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx7PaHGAuqRsKzJDgp09mgXnMI5NeJ2Ang3cVcvrpZM7BRHLTRO_8bkQ7mNnewQCUDwUbiobhtRtyqN0286Zm8B1-Rwl7sFHrvaJgVRPUAaYxRbnSi2QeUJGyKBKSMexFbTCPx/s320/TB2.jpg" /></a> And this is what it looks like after about 20 seconds. I use 2 cups of whole flax seed for this recipe. My grinder is small so I have to do it 1/2 cup at a time.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZAK0kO8N2KMRzO3w5zsSpPVj7RqahCTTUmJ_tNQxQwjczVFCXLPBaan-_SU4XkPn8Kb-iI2txg8ocrPTGHOTQf2vrYTip8QH8xpDsV1RXmQPwikWtH2f4QnJmuf_-AxyMW4L/s1600/TB3.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491613406597725682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZAK0kO8N2KMRzO3w5zsSpPVj7RqahCTTUmJ_tNQxQwjczVFCXLPBaan-_SU4XkPn8Kb-iI2txg8ocrPTGHOTQf2vrYTip8QH8xpDsV1RXmQPwikWtH2f4QnJmuf_-AxyMW4L/s320/TB3.jpg" /></a> I use my Blendtec blender for this recipe, but you could maybe use any quality blender if you chopped the foods a little smaller. Here I have one can of diced tomatoes and half of a medium/large onion. I then add about 1/2 cup Braggs. You could certainly substitute soy sauce I'm sure.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9wnuF046SrK4lv2jnQ7YsIMbZcakwcQuTB9-lz3gjf-q1HxJAgvSn4XYEW7-kIYqPzXyCWVtXfq8NxzqLcCYlsiYdOqzryY_cO8KbWeQRDfv7-36G_X9FEv5legj29LQ7_KHT/s1600/TB4.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491613401528200114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9wnuF046SrK4lv2jnQ7YsIMbZcakwcQuTB9-lz3gjf-q1HxJAgvSn4XYEW7-kIYqPzXyCWVtXfq8NxzqLcCYlsiYdOqzryY_cO8KbWeQRDfv7-36G_X9FEv5legj29LQ7_KHT/s320/TB4.jpg" /></a> Here I've added about half a cup of extra virgin olive oil and a LOT of garlic. I buy it prechopped in those huge containers at Sams and I probably used 5 or so Tablespoons. I also added about a cup of water. And a whole jalapeno from the garden.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFidZ-FH5rTnjaxkUrC_3cW9gCiRrI5nDSVKQSpb7cHPCVASCJI7Lcq6XtyPMrW0PXTZsFWqevy15RQ52pv1vOQlmjEul0C6_gvq3ZMw3WKIhtk8qelshpi5v5LrC6eZ1SCxSX/s1600/TB5.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491613390487473410" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFidZ-FH5rTnjaxkUrC_3cW9gCiRrI5nDSVKQSpb7cHPCVASCJI7Lcq6XtyPMrW0PXTZsFWqevy15RQ52pv1vOQlmjEul0C6_gvq3ZMw3WKIhtk8qelshpi5v5LrC6eZ1SCxSX/s320/TB5.jpg" /></a> Here is 2 big handfulls of raw, organic spinach and a handful of shredded cheddar cheese. I also added about a heaping tablespoon of coarse ground pepper.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbn9zeMILYaHcAxzGCmNOpec5d6ctiGkClS5HgclEsFsjZMZTv0vfzu-TcLQgCWCb8PXhImh0CzseqhPzTpxJne0laXsp7wHN0F4Ud3pMAe6LWj6t6ce_Xs6gTr8924kkJchA/s1600/TB6.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491613732278703538" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbn9zeMILYaHcAxzGCmNOpec5d6ctiGkClS5HgclEsFsjZMZTv0vfzu-TcLQgCWCb8PXhImh0CzseqhPzTpxJne0laXsp7wHN0F4Ud3pMAe6LWj6t6ce_Xs6gTr8924kkJchA/s320/TB6.jpg" /></a> Here it is blended.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18l-69TKICpcvh3gZjWlBYb_yK8Um6FdV2dsmAML3z6dIo3cOWacmCFP47fXSH_HErX-Pga8HpVB_j9UR6Mv6GfDHYWujwsk5a-vrXpN4j4PgGAuXfhIH4_PfP83PcyW7TxrA/s1600/TB7.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491613724173181362" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18l-69TKICpcvh3gZjWlBYb_yK8Um6FdV2dsmAML3z6dIo3cOWacmCFP47fXSH_HErX-Pga8HpVB_j9UR6Mv6GfDHYWujwsk5a-vrXpN4j4PgGAuXfhIH4_PfP83PcyW7TxrA/s320/TB7.jpg" /></a> Now most of the flax cracker recipes that I've seen say to add the water to the ground flax first. I have issues with this. It "gels" and then I have a really tough time incorporating the blended vegetables. YMMV.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOiz6ZXxX74dxEXvAmRI1oPs-xpA42EY4UNQnirrDB3Fj0a7exLCAGfdTOcg679AomRs7KDjQZYWD7DN4v-onwqfLXW8jhe5qywVTIqWyOQOcnWzTX-p22kWnQpXuXgvZ4gvn/s1600/TB8.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491613717349127634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOiz6ZXxX74dxEXvAmRI1oPs-xpA42EY4UNQnirrDB3Fj0a7exLCAGfdTOcg679AomRs7KDjQZYWD7DN4v-onwqfLXW8jhe5qywVTIqWyOQOcnWzTX-p22kWnQpXuXgvZ4gvn/s320/TB8.jpg" /></a> When you first add it to this smallish amount of ground flax, it seems awfully thin. You're gonna want to add less of the liquid vegetables. Don't. Because as you can see in the photo below...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAzMpyTHjQHZZ8ZuujQRMvNRALTvTvnvwESiA6mT9D1a2v_4kAmoTCtr1PdkXH9dcorzgxxNxkNs1HzJbklU_sWF0qcawgbjmBTJH4JpIEMM1MMSv98LBses1SUelsZXfyHhE9/s1600/TB9.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491613711733881122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAzMpyTHjQHZZ8ZuujQRMvNRALTvTvnvwESiA6mT9D1a2v_4kAmoTCtr1PdkXH9dcorzgxxNxkNs1HzJbklU_sWF0qcawgbjmBTJH4JpIEMM1MMSv98LBses1SUelsZXfyHhE9/s320/TB9.jpg" /></a>...it thickens up. Here I'm spreading it on my Excalibur Dehydrator paraflexx sheet. One batch of flax paste makes 4 full sheets of crackers. Approximately 200 crackers.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieA-Aut4aaGaqaEtlJVryJ6vZ9j42hzN9l27A0rGVuPNgj70EqgIS9q6ynrPadXIjQaluWZaB96hqHUh_CPMQyqwAyeToGbDmgVe5IlFkO5bx_r1_Ainz1UUJYFyk7sIU2Ts0K/s1600/TB10.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491613702695408258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieA-Aut4aaGaqaEtlJVryJ6vZ9j42hzN9l27A0rGVuPNgj70EqgIS9q6ynrPadXIjQaluWZaB96hqHUh_CPMQyqwAyeToGbDmgVe5IlFkO5bx_r1_Ainz1UUJYFyk7sIU2Ts0K/s320/TB10.jpg" /></a> I spread it as thin as I can get it to go which varies depending on how thick the concoction has become. The thinner pieces have a texture more like chips. The thicker pieces, more like crackers. It's a win/win. And then I score the paste to make it easier to break into bite sized pieces when it's dry.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBVq5yIDG362oqUyFhlan66JpXg196Fyd8y90b0rsAa5nmGil1yhWmek-i920YoIZDRMxE-nfnPeb7HYTqH0NN0HiCjuR49gqizkcDXbApBg54YfvAQJPrxImPbTIhAPo2K65/s1600/TB11.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491614069898983282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBVq5yIDG362oqUyFhlan66JpXg196Fyd8y90b0rsAa5nmGil1yhWmek-i920YoIZDRMxE-nfnPeb7HYTqH0NN0HiCjuR49gqizkcDXbApBg54YfvAQJPrxImPbTIhAPo2K65/s320/TB11.jpg" /></a> I then barely salt and heavily pepper the paste and pop it in the dehydrator for a couple of days at 115 degrees. After several hours, asap, I remove the crackers from the paraflexx sheets to dry them evenly on both sides.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijFgSvWniwEuSfKBhc9MMZl68Uz8DoV9Y5HP4zU43NCr-3C-V2cyBeH1JxgaSNCRmRgMNEZO_PhkQE_V3e8peJV3uiBuqVdOKHeNw4DCTDhM8HrOftirbRG-6KOwE0KLf1fJFC/s1600/TB12.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491650152849144850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijFgSvWniwEuSfKBhc9MMZl68Uz8DoV9Y5HP4zU43NCr-3C-V2cyBeH1JxgaSNCRmRgMNEZO_PhkQE_V3e8peJV3uiBuqVdOKHeNw4DCTDhM8HrOftirbRG-6KOwE0KLf1fJFC/s320/TB12.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikN5MjFxqPfbhuayqQ9XbjP2z5wZWQ3ZasHzctFcBCcHTQTBE_0TmFBjS7lafSnpX1DxAWDzl33_vloKWcHWYcN1ZMPkdU9zCVAzo41uObiaV5bUYPVTuG5pHow1GHyl2Hlyun/s1600/TB13.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491650160883992418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikN5MjFxqPfbhuayqQ9XbjP2z5wZWQ3ZasHzctFcBCcHTQTBE_0TmFBjS7lafSnpX1DxAWDzl33_vloKWcHWYcN1ZMPkdU9zCVAzo41uObiaV5bUYPVTuG5pHow1GHyl2Hlyun/s320/TB13.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXsnw_tVgemW6vjawbdJYYaceaOEfzMoH2mss6iOtr7nLztMNK2dq32izmkqkQ1XaJF-nBmj9uFpakFVgh4P1PUJGNflEcEJMR8Kbb_5e3UWsMzsYeNhX3rHipA5I2u9DCU8-/s1600/TB14.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491650166669416482" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXsnw_tVgemW6vjawbdJYYaceaOEfzMoH2mss6iOtr7nLztMNK2dq32izmkqkQ1XaJF-nBmj9uFpakFVgh4P1PUJGNflEcEJMR8Kbb_5e3UWsMzsYeNhX3rHipA5I2u9DCU8-/s320/TB14.jpg" /></a><br /><br />And this is what they look like when they're done. I literally cannot keep enough of these made to satisfy everyone here. I usually make a batch ever single day. They are really very, very good. And spicy.<br /><br /><font color="#ff0000">Dehydrator Olive Oil and Black Pepper Flax Crackers<br /><br />2 Cups whole flax seed, ground<br />1 can diced tomatoes<br />1/2 large onion<br />1 whole jalapeno pepper with seeds (optional)<br />1/2 cup Braggs liquid aminos (could probably substitute soy sauce)<br />Lots of garlic, I use appr. 5 tablespoons diced (to taste)<br />1 cup shredded cheddar cheese<br />1-2 tablespoons of coarse black pepper<br />1/2 cup olive oil<br />2 handfulls raw spinach<br /><br />Grind flax seed and put in a large bowl. Set aside. Add other ingredients to a good blender (or possibly a food processor but realize that the mixture will be moderately thin and may leak) and process until it's all liquid. Pour over flax meal and mix well. Spread thinly on dehydrator sheets (I set my dehydrator at 115 degrees)and very lightly salt and pepper (to taste) and dehydrate for several hours. As soon as possible, peel the sheets off the crackers and continue to dry for 48 or so hours total.<br /><br /></font><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGa8eeuXFpdF5S0bGEogbtOEbu8AsayCDTvm8969mKLfKtXN_ctxBnOR3SF9Sh7N1CjSvzX6noe_SgrId6WjSRAEROu3UfAOjmo0eP2qPuQ3PH1zveeXjEkedsOXHVZRRHCoCV/s1600/TBL.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 258px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491614065031582658" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGa8eeuXFpdF5S0bGEogbtOEbu8AsayCDTvm8969mKLfKtXN_ctxBnOR3SF9Sh7N1CjSvzX6noe_SgrId6WjSRAEROu3UfAOjmo0eP2qPuQ3PH1zveeXjEkedsOXHVZRRHCoCV/s320/TBL.jpg" /></a> This is a tease of my homemade protein bars. When I make them again I'll try to get some pictures and post a recipe. </div></div></div></div>My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-15620604795638837432010-07-09T08:53:00.001-04:002010-07-09T10:31:23.113-04:00147 Million OrphansDid you know that there are <a href="http://147millionorphans.com/">147 million orphans </a>in the world?<br /><br />That number seems astronomical.<br /><br />Until you realize that there are 2.1 BILLION (with a B) self-proclaimed Christ followers in the world.<br /><br />Which means if only 8% of those claiming to be a Christian would <a href="http://amazima.org/waystohelp.html">sponsor a child</a>, it would end orphan hunger IN THE WORLD.<br /><br />In the whole world.<br /><br />Pro 31:8-9 "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-78173202337104439742010-07-08T11:30:00.003-04:002010-07-08T11:51:25.730-04:00Mission FieldsI've tried to post something on this topic time and again. For whatever reason, I've never been able to do so. I've typed and erased a crazy amount of text. Everytime I go back to read it, it doesn't seem quite right. And I think I'm coming to understand why.<br /><br />I'm 44 years old. I have 3 daughters. The oldest daughter is 23, middle is 15, and youngest is 12. For a long, long time, my mission has been these girls. Even before I fully understood what that meant, it was still true. It's still true today. But as my girls get older, the scope of my responsibilities has changed. For over 23 years I've had someone younger than a teenager in my home that I (along with my husband of course) cared for, loved and guided. In less than a month, that will no longer be the case. This has been the essence of "me" pretty much my whole adult life. And it's all starting to slowly shift.<br /><br />Of course I realize that my daughters still need and rely on me for many things, but the things ARE changing. And while I realize it's an early worry, I don't want to be one of those moms whose last child leaves and they are lost. I'm praying God's wisdom in this area. I've had a deep desire to know what's next. <br /><br />There are so many needs in our world. I'm overwhelmed. And truly excited about what the future holds as I ever so slowly make the transition from one huge mission field to another.<br /><br />More as it unfolds.My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-30917378750542185852010-07-06T13:14:00.003-04:002010-07-06T14:34:23.490-04:00Picture Catch Up Post<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Xp8MNgx22eqX0CtEEav-C0EM2WXplZRojDrZElXr3wvDjcYFVN_b8lLhn7X-5WdJgs5wsNwgYUinUXTkAY8FIVto1sEJuOweuXHX3h_4dR5J99pK5ntEY-wuv2S2uBZ3faYQ/s1600/TB1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490843066645750850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Xp8MNgx22eqX0CtEEav-C0EM2WXplZRojDrZElXr3wvDjcYFVN_b8lLhn7X-5WdJgs5wsNwgYUinUXTkAY8FIVto1sEJuOweuXHX3h_4dR5J99pK5ntEY-wuv2S2uBZ3faYQ/s320/TB1.jpg" /></a><br /><br />One of many, many bake sales. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHbhPXfQC17nTrxha6vRnvHnSim8w210NPB5rYi2-1Hvo4dPkArTFKxnyOnN9-bxjBVCtWIH8kmCfzG8aJk9hX7xLGmLRCRcfND7dvqA61zn1hetk64XDvpWoXFg1Pa79nziE/s1600/TB1.5"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490858144821170322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHbhPXfQC17nTrxha6vRnvHnSim8w210NPB5rYi2-1Hvo4dPkArTFKxnyOnN9-bxjBVCtWIH8kmCfzG8aJk9hX7xLGmLRCRcfND7dvqA61zn1hetk64XDvpWoXFg1Pa79nziE/s320/TB1.5" /></a><br /><br />Close up of the eye-baw-baw's. (Eyeballs)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRM1QNw2NBNIrGzA8T40naqdhA8lMwNcI78D884tlS8EbQ8UtH9g5w_2MZXGzViGnU2iGr30OO9VGfl60UUYrsl5DdsAuRHPQcBKxu8HEgllpdpbaR9rTDkBF5qqyIcoCIdwix/s1600/TB2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490858151017336402" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRM1QNw2NBNIrGzA8T40naqdhA8lMwNcI78D884tlS8EbQ8UtH9g5w_2MZXGzViGnU2iGr30OO9VGfl60UUYrsl5DdsAuRHPQcBKxu8HEgllpdpbaR9rTDkBF5qqyIcoCIdwix/s320/TB2.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Great church wide camping trip.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8HkZlJViX3m_sDOJZAOW8xw9NC58o4j3-1bKpBxnI_jsKmr3mocgvPTg6T0LzYxahyphenhyphenh4HFYwRBT2x8o0THr4ENuY1I9vF1F_51l2eD22JuEgcYVVtleRiVdixjq9EO2AlXdZ/s1600/TB3.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490858156277054338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8HkZlJViX3m_sDOJZAOW8xw9NC58o4j3-1bKpBxnI_jsKmr3mocgvPTg6T0LzYxahyphenhyphenh4HFYwRBT2x8o0THr4ENuY1I9vF1F_51l2eD22JuEgcYVVtleRiVdixjq9EO2AlXdZ/s320/TB3.jpg" /></a><br /><br />With really good food. Can't you almost smell this?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYb-j-MW3st1Sd_G0YtxNtzaIenaHhCMcrsajkuwXQWJYSiin7JuOrx4XMnsdrB2drOQ587jxv3apiV4t2T8lUkbYNhJtXg-2Xeyrm5S63_FlPFot9IBHMbGZoPs3C51uamzm0/s1600/TB4.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490858161886858610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYb-j-MW3st1Sd_G0YtxNtzaIenaHhCMcrsajkuwXQWJYSiin7JuOrx4XMnsdrB2drOQ587jxv3apiV4t2T8lUkbYNhJtXg-2Xeyrm5S63_FlPFot9IBHMbGZoPs3C51uamzm0/s320/TB4.jpg" /></a><br /><br />And this super dining hall. If you look through the back screen you can see the little cabins. There were plenty for each family to have their own. We're so lucky to live in a place like this.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_rYSmyFXVzeKy8b6YabH8MT4FrYC4XdtO0_E0UZgGmYhDHUVJIcJeYa1p4FoKMgcKonGlCGvZqr_IP6zIv3KTE1YDfWvgbtQmgvrQDFBbzuqQ09X9-PE4SKpkEOgW1m1iHG1/s1600/TB5.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490858174164363970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_rYSmyFXVzeKy8b6YabH8MT4FrYC4XdtO0_E0UZgGmYhDHUVJIcJeYa1p4FoKMgcKonGlCGvZqr_IP6zIv3KTE1YDfWvgbtQmgvrQDFBbzuqQ09X9-PE4SKpkEOgW1m1iHG1/s320/TB5.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6gH0pq0-81MAAt38wzhc34kEu44hXoAdGlgPCdZ-HGlZC4yw7DJdoJxMbvcDyhHQ3FbM38VjXlrLDzidvvlKwIfSy47fYR7FScioAwHMCWcxtN42uenH8-0nFIljj67ruWXAw/s1600/TB6.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490858453936597538" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6gH0pq0-81MAAt38wzhc34kEu44hXoAdGlgPCdZ-HGlZC4yw7DJdoJxMbvcDyhHQ3FbM38VjXlrLDzidvvlKwIfSy47fYR7FScioAwHMCWcxtN42uenH8-0nFIljj67ruWXAw/s320/TB6.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6S9vFRfkEdY1E93SuEnPV-Dkklw5fjTWNqUbyqAZ3cZlE_MhAbx37hhSbnp6Pqkf7zgaZ0hzOfI-ei5ePz1HjDRzw3fE1NFdhs6zjc-Q1mSaezlc5IXOEBJ9SJgstjyhpWG9B/s1600/TB7.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490858461048317842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6S9vFRfkEdY1E93SuEnPV-Dkklw5fjTWNqUbyqAZ3cZlE_MhAbx37hhSbnp6Pqkf7zgaZ0hzOfI-ei5ePz1HjDRzw3fE1NFdhs6zjc-Q1mSaezlc5IXOEBJ9SJgstjyhpWG9B/s320/TB7.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We got quite a bit of snow this year. And it was really cold as well. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9oCPkYhkbThdx2MslwSJXDcylAI2jW1kWwxnvUm18JouUqlpi2tRdvcmHV98544clITDd54rCq09daR9ZQqdLKJAaDl1afMVRXQku1E-Xe_iovx3KMZLwP29CIna_nTkZ_A2/s1600/TB8.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490858462428708802" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG9oCPkYhkbThdx2MslwSJXDcylAI2jW1kWwxnvUm18JouUqlpi2tRdvcmHV98544clITDd54rCq09daR9ZQqdLKJAaDl1afMVRXQku1E-Xe_iovx3KMZLwP29CIna_nTkZ_A2/s320/TB8.jpg" /></a><br /><br />My daughters and my new(ish)son in law. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6fp9Gg1rj46S1s1mKZvFjxEIjtA39yWFatU0IYu8GEHFA7DLQaoFvDOogj1Y9w2hpBkYJPu1hKC3R5qtvr_DxHEzsk032o709triLlDX5lqc5ljxuQQwJ-lETf4xkxyvtY7X5/s1600/TB9.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490858471734615778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6fp9Gg1rj46S1s1mKZvFjxEIjtA39yWFatU0IYu8GEHFA7DLQaoFvDOogj1Y9w2hpBkYJPu1hKC3R5qtvr_DxHEzsk032o709triLlDX5lqc5ljxuQQwJ-lETf4xkxyvtY7X5/s320/TB9.jpg" /></a><br /><br />My redheads prom hair.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO0t_xpksIBpl243GxOVlW7tK_gzfDX-7r9OPFK93ME7skvs3AH0KKrVafgOECw480M7OtbE38FR5nNgAsyx0LhulV9vZuNuGcIj-sJiMEzD1cMNUKjDFKIWEiZ69FmZN2qwMT/s1600/TB10.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490858475812045554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO0t_xpksIBpl243GxOVlW7tK_gzfDX-7r9OPFK93ME7skvs3AH0KKrVafgOECw480M7OtbE38FR5nNgAsyx0LhulV9vZuNuGcIj-sJiMEzD1cMNUKjDFKIWEiZ69FmZN2qwMT/s320/TB10.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Our blackberry vines have been really generous. And delicious.My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-84928984832488249332010-03-06T11:23:00.003-05:002010-03-06T11:28:16.278-05:00Must. Read.If you never click another link on this blog, you must click this one.<br /><br /><a href="http://kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com/">http://kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br />Read her site. <br /><br />And then, if you can, come back and tell me that your life isn't changed.My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-56665496368789007412009-11-28T09:24:00.005-05:002009-11-28T10:23:35.297-05:00A Thanksgiving of ChangesI got the phone call a few weeks ago. My great uncle was to have heart surgery again. But this time it was more serious. The tests had shown up a tumor as well as a blockage. He would also need something implanted to regulate his heartbeat.<br /><br />Earl and Barbara are like grandparents to me. And they're old. Both in their 80's. So that's not the news you want to hear.<br /><br />We've always had Thanksgiving with them. Ever since I can remember. But this year, with Earl's health, they're just not up for it. The surgery isn't until December, but he is short of breath and has to take things really easy until then. And they have family closer than we are to them that wanted them to come to their home.<br /><br />So Thanksgiving would be here this year. For my family and a family friend.<br /><br />Lots to do, lots to prep, lots to decide. I'd never cooked a full Thanksgiving meal before all on my own. And even though I was a little sad about the change, I wanted it to be something special for my girls. Plus we have the new addition this year of my oldest daughters husband.<br /><br />So we dive in, my oldest daughter and I, head first and plan and shop and plan some more. We search recipes and test foods and have our schedule all worked out for Thanksgiving week.<br /><br />And then on Sunday before Thanksgiving our dog got sick. Really sick. He's old, almost 15, and been going downhill for quite some time. He's a big lab/retriever mix and has arthritis and hip issues. He's fallen a lot lately and not been able to get up for a while so we've been hesitant to leave him alone for any length of time.<br /><br />But this is a different sick.<br /><br />By Tuesday there was nothing we could do for him. The vet told us that we really had no choice but to put him to sleep. We asked if there was anything at all that would buy him some quality of life for even a little while. And he said no. The only humane thing to do was to let him go.<br /><br />We'd always promised ourselves, and him in a way, that we'd not keep him around past when he should be here for our benefit only.<br /><br />With many tears and much heartbreak, Tuesday we kept that promise.<br /><br />Life is not the same around here without him. Lucy, our other dog, is weird. She's looking for him all over the place. Constantly.<br /><br />So Thanksgiving here was a big change. It was surprisingly lovely, and only tinged with sadness from time to time. <br /><br />I know to those of you that are not dog people how odd all of this may sound. Ridiculous even. But to those of you that ARE dog people, you get it.<br /><br />He was a good boy.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ZB1BdNWwow0bj0YqtufaiKXbib_aggWzAShfyIECc1VtqfrGkCrQw1NnfeIAj_tqfRScGsY2yH3Upz1skoGQngMt7hrGa4mYxrr0tv0PAl-zeiqLEY5mWGuzYSKZWqycSfvd/s1600/Hi-Boo1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ZB1BdNWwow0bj0YqtufaiKXbib_aggWzAShfyIECc1VtqfrGkCrQw1NnfeIAj_tqfRScGsY2yH3Upz1skoGQngMt7hrGa4mYxrr0tv0PAl-zeiqLEY5mWGuzYSKZWqycSfvd/s320/Hi-Boo1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409173945918084130" /></a>My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-38443418369280746362009-10-28T14:32:00.003-04:002009-10-28T14:40:25.033-04:00Busy, Busy WeekWe've had 2 bake sales this week (one at church and one at co-op) that I've had to both bake for and participate in. Early. Too early.<br /><br />We had a "blessing of the animals" at our church on Sunday that Mike MC'd and the girls and I volunteered.<br /><br />Both of my younger daughters were in a play last night. And it was smashing.<br /><br />Tonight is Trunk-or-treat at our church. Youth dresses up. And my husband and I are in charge of the youth (last minute). And the car had to be cleaned, vacuumed and decorated.<br /><br />Friday morning is clean up day at our co-op. For three hours. Friday afternoon is a small group overnight camping trip for which I have to both bake (all the sweets for over 30 people) and shop for disposables and various food. And breakfast stuff.<br /><br />Of course, Saturday is Halloween.<br /><br />I'm glad there is an extra hour thrown in this week. I think I'll spend it sleeping.<br /><br />Now I'm off and running again.My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-90055208638650746882009-10-17T10:17:00.002-04:002009-10-17T10:34:16.090-04:00Crown Financial<a href="http://www.crown.org/">Crown Financial Ministries</a><br /><br />I'm taking this class at church on Sunday mornings. Has anyone ever taken it? Have any opinions or thoughts on it?<br /><br />We have Bible verses to memorize every week. It's been quite a while since I memorized Bible verses. I'll be putting them on the sidebar to help.My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-63610911478503486882009-10-10T11:01:00.005-04:002009-10-10T11:34:29.205-04:00In Keeping With My New GoalsThe rain here has been abundant. Huge, fierce storms that blow in and back out just as quickly. Leaving glistening puddles and drips in the brilliant sunshine.<br /><br />Jillian loves to play in the rain. She was outside yesterday right after a storm had blown through and came bursting through the door to tell me of a rainbow that ended in the neighbors yard! I grabbed my camera but unfortunately it was gone. But I did capture a few pictures of beauty found in the small things.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg94n5VypwRg3vOF250BSPsgae0D0wZC6fC-S2P1BdVe_jIT1174FLu5PEnT3PoCe5RP0XnTXM0DHZkn9dWAUpy4_c0xkOEARvP27oTDqIwRUkR3bc-_yBvYARPDsoBKhGYpJw/s1600-h/10-10-09+8.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390991275925843106" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg94n5VypwRg3vOF250BSPsgae0D0wZC6fC-S2P1BdVe_jIT1174FLu5PEnT3PoCe5RP0XnTXM0DHZkn9dWAUpy4_c0xkOEARvP27oTDqIwRUkR3bc-_yBvYARPDsoBKhGYpJw/s320/10-10-09+8.jpg" /></a><br />Jillian drenched and on the swing here daddy made her.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx1uRIRknpmLPBMpphCumFps7kMNKQeBKbTGUiM2ZXO6bCsolAEIdeyjK3GtjreS3KwlYQjMLP-JnfQqEqPmeL0u4agkiNe7GNuDl1mklPcrxLJWmCocmqG2iGBN_37bvBfNhB/s1600-h/10-10-09+6.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390990846592725074" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx1uRIRknpmLPBMpphCumFps7kMNKQeBKbTGUiM2ZXO6bCsolAEIdeyjK3GtjreS3KwlYQjMLP-JnfQqEqPmeL0u4agkiNe7GNuDl1mklPcrxLJWmCocmqG2iGBN_37bvBfNhB/s320/10-10-09+6.jpg" /></a><br />Our thornless blackberry patch. Last spring it was two little sticks in the ground.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mpmBJYVTkYit-cYhQsh2z8Udfne_Aztyy9q8JrB915muCnq-mNETvavcWcTysGUkbUIPm33_lEeawZ0-sAmzGBKVIms0r_Ir_KrCybZmHNw00STvBso7lNvLeO9iqJQfXwvt/s1600-h/10-10-09+4.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390990838344576098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mpmBJYVTkYit-cYhQsh2z8Udfne_Aztyy9q8JrB915muCnq-mNETvavcWcTysGUkbUIPm33_lEeawZ0-sAmzGBKVIms0r_Ir_KrCybZmHNw00STvBso7lNvLeO9iqJQfXwvt/s320/10-10-09+4.jpg" /></a><br />The runoff that keeps the blackberries growing like weeks.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifoH8KDjZdRJHjg9ozEfEzqNioSLvzT5HQiPUZ7hTFGaXxRKVvHBiuIbf4YPJW7NyctCULvdfJP6ssWy7stI-Ce0iDZNAmpD8-Bua-KKp3zeZEHQXtCuqqbR92PWe3yEozhAWA/s1600-h/10-10-09+12.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390991298439372882" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifoH8KDjZdRJHjg9ozEfEzqNioSLvzT5HQiPUZ7hTFGaXxRKVvHBiuIbf4YPJW7NyctCULvdfJP6ssWy7stI-Ce0iDZNAmpD8-Bua-KKp3zeZEHQXtCuqqbR92PWe3yEozhAWA/s320/10-10-09+12.jpg" /></a><br />Ripening Figs<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZPTjzHd2UFt3vntF7_gx6HZB9CXRmUgBVsOJzBhBnR0qMJuBg37W5MzhQSY6P9Pkl_DZePa9gsoCPEHCfQu1XmuRx3RKcZ7aoWTND4mylyMORF8sneNDHkRuI4lC4MSvELzX6/s1600-h/10-10-09+11.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390991291033619250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZPTjzHd2UFt3vntF7_gx6HZB9CXRmUgBVsOJzBhBnR0qMJuBg37W5MzhQSY6P9Pkl_DZePa9gsoCPEHCfQu1XmuRx3RKcZ7aoWTND4mylyMORF8sneNDHkRuI4lC4MSvELzX6/s320/10-10-09+11.jpg" /></a><br />Some of the last color in the yard. These bushes got so beautiful this year.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeVfws_jeaeul4169qxKYGN_8pWBOgHevsGvr8fLxG_WSqnjFGc4Sa0Naak1keA_N6I5JhmhxDl8Nr9V_m6em1q2fw9DF6__cIp-7q4EQrFZ7zvjEZFfTT5eaHLJ339U6Kklm/s1600-h/10-10-09+7.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390990856117968786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeVfws_jeaeul4169qxKYGN_8pWBOgHevsGvr8fLxG_WSqnjFGc4Sa0Naak1keA_N6I5JhmhxDl8Nr9V_m6em1q2fw9DF6__cIp-7q4EQrFZ7zvjEZFfTT5eaHLJ339U6Kklm/s320/10-10-09+7.jpg" /></a><br />A hot pepper plant that has been crazy prolific this year. I'm drying them as fast as possible.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47tuvnVsJwgg74mEtJSyeoOW3QSUUGatecVx1UWt4WmGaqOkMJ4jJCHxgAAuWg4wPFfBa01T7YLb1U4kdop5St6PsrlSPFfIgk-QZMKTpocsn7lONo37D0Ujzcb718dGvyjQF/s1600-h/10-10-09+9.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390991278555899442" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47tuvnVsJwgg74mEtJSyeoOW3QSUUGatecVx1UWt4WmGaqOkMJ4jJCHxgAAuWg4wPFfBa01T7YLb1U4kdop5St6PsrlSPFfIgk-QZMKTpocsn7lONo37D0Ujzcb718dGvyjQF/s320/10-10-09+9.jpg" /></a><br />Sunshine on the magnolia tree.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_ndBRpXubNK1dbleKObl5V6cwD7537LzhkNtcY_77IPYcvOQE3QUfxE4sQ8oZXdrdL9ztvbCQpq6jD061JnYB2652ARl1f8H7RQrc4t4s72GebhW6Ay32XtELeFlFk4TL5Z3/s1600-h/10-10-09+10.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390991285305340162" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_ndBRpXubNK1dbleKObl5V6cwD7537LzhkNtcY_77IPYcvOQE3QUfxE4sQ8oZXdrdL9ztvbCQpq6jD061JnYB2652ARl1f8H7RQrc4t4s72GebhW6Ay32XtELeFlFk4TL5Z3/s320/10-10-09+10.jpg" /></a><br />Us heading inside. Bare feet squishing in the mud.My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-81797170847342981772009-10-09T10:56:00.004-04:002009-10-09T11:32:39.330-04:00PrioritiesThings seem to slowly be coming together.<br /><br />I'm not really sure why I do some of the things I do. Or if there is a name or word for why/how I handle things.<br /><br />I have a lot to do in my home. The list is daunting.<br /><br />The (younger) girls are at an age that is crazy busy. Julia is learning to drive. And aside from that she is a fifteen year old girl that is involved in many healthy/fun/uplifting activities. Jillian is 12 and really coming into her own. She is starting to enjoy all the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">girly</span> stuff. She now talks on the phone, texts and messes with her hair. She too has many, many church and/or co-op activities.<br /><br />My husband works at least 6 days a week. He is involved in 2 different weekly ministries that are NOT church specific and at least 4 that are specific to our church.<br /><br />We have chosen in our life to rarely, rarely eat out. This sounds silly. I know lots of people who say they rarely eat out and then pick up fast food on the way home. Or buy frozen dinners from the grocery. The thing is, we *rarely* eat out. Literally maybe 3 or 4 times a year. We almost never eat frozen dinners. Most of our food is made from scratch. Not that I grind the wheat for all of our bread (though I do that from time to time) but that I literally cook breakfast, lunch (which is sometimes sandwiches, and sometimes not), and dinner *7* days a week.<br /><br />That's a lot of cooking. I spend my time in the kitchen. Probably on average 2-3 hours a day. And I'm grateful that I get to do this. But on top of the actual kitchen time, there is the planning and shopping time. And I'm a bargain shopper, so add that extra time to the mix.<br /><br />And I've posted chore charts for the girls and I here before, and the girls do quite a lot. But there are several areas that I'm on my own. For obvious and not so obvious reasons I suppose.<br /><br />I do all the laundry.<br /><br />I do 95% of the cooking.<br /><br />I pay the bills.<br /><br />I do all of the shopping.<br /><br />I keep the calendar. (This is a much bigger deal than you might imagine. I'll try to write more about it at a later time.)<br /><br />I, of course at this point, do all the driving. (And this year the co-op schedule is ridiculous. I'll post about that sometime soon as well.)<br /><br />I keep the school records.<br /><br />I tend (or not) the garden.<br /><br />The point is, I'm reasonably busy just in general. And then I have church obligations and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">committees</span> on which I sit. There is much prep involved in at least 3 of these.<br /><br />And it feels like somehow over the course of time, my priorities have gotten smudged. I've been spending way too much time on things other than my home. And my home is showing the signs of neglect.<br /><br />There are things in my sidebar that are not directly related to my home. But these are things that I have committed to do and so I will do them. And when they are done, things are going to be considered very carefully before I commit to anything else at this season of my life that does not directly relate to my home or family.<br /><br />I'll still continue (for the time being) with the areas at my church that I volunteer/participate. But only so far as it doesn't <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">interfere</span> with my true mission field.<br /><br />My family and home.<br /><br />Some may view this as selfish. So be it. I have to do what I feel is right for me and my family. And I really feel the call to focus on home. To live in the moment with my family. To not only perform the duties at home, but to make memories with them. To love my family. To love my home. To take the time to appreciate all that I've been given. Instead of rushing through one thing to get to another.<br /><br />No more.<br /><br />So here's to a new beginning. I hope to blog about it along the way.<br /><br />The life with which I have been blessed is entirely too beautiful to only give it a passing nod.<br /><br />It's time to stop and focus.My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-56614496125685096222009-09-29T09:36:00.001-04:002009-09-29T13:15:35.881-04:00UpdateWell, as you can see I got almost nothing done yesterday. My daughter and I spend <em>hours</em> trying to get rid of an infection on her computer. And we still didn't get it done. We may have to have it looked at. I can't believe how stubborn these malware can be! Her husband is doing college classes online so they really need this fixed. That's why it got priority.<br /><br />I may put this list (and add to it) in my sidebar. It makes me want to get it done when it's out there for all to see!My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-73924744599877286052009-09-28T10:23:00.003-04:002009-09-29T09:36:20.974-04:00PlansI'd really like to post daily here. At least during the week. But today is not the day to start it. My to-do list is pretty huge. And I'm pretty determined. So we'll see.<br /><br />This is my two week plan. Of course there will be normal activities of daily living thrown in there. But I'm starting first with a printable calendar and plugging this stuff into various days. I'll try to update on my progress.<br /><br />-Fix Jessica's computer (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">malware</span> infection)<br /><br />-<strike>Quick grocery trip</strike><br /><br />-Spend 1 hour with daughter on project<br /><br />-Oversee all major schoolwork<br /><br />-Lesson plan for history<br /><br />-Spend 2 hours cleaning at least 2 days a week<br /><br />-Make a two week meal plan<br /><br />-Bills<br /><br />-<strike>Place a book order</strike><br /><br />-<strike>Wax</strike><br /><br />-Get all Fall vegetable in deck planters<br /><br />-Start on Christmas list<br /><br />-Change and wash sheets<br /><br />-Spend 1 hour daily on getting the girls rooms in shape (including buying paint and supplies, painting and getting every nook and cranny cleaned out and organized)<br /><br />-Take big quilts to laundry mat<br /><br />-Finish sewing projects<br /><br />-Spend 1 hour a week organizing computer/school roomMy name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-50584900382707423732009-09-24T14:20:00.003-04:002009-09-25T12:35:39.596-04:00Cleaning HouseNo. Not <em>my</em> house. Which is what needs to be done. But I'm going to spiff up a few things around the old blog today. I've got some computer work to do anyway (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">fliers</span> for church activities) so I'll try to multitask. Since it's still too wet to do much laundry. My poor septic tank doesn't take kindly to all the flooding.My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-68333098849012916302009-09-23T12:42:00.004-04:002009-09-23T13:22:48.139-04:00CommentsAs I'm sure I've mentioned before, I get the most lovely comments and emails most times. People asking questions or helping me to clarify things that I've written that may not be as clear as I'd thought they were.<br /><br />Of course I sometimes get the odd comments as well. I don't publish them because they seem to be computer generated or just so off the wall that I have a hard time following them.<br /><br />But then sometimes I get a comment that I feel like deserves more of an answer than what I can give in the reply section underneath it.<br /><br />On January 2 of this year I got this anonymous comment in regards to <a href="http://glorious-mayhem.blogspot.com/2008/03/my-homemaking-philosophy.html">My Homemaking Philosophy Post</a>:<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">"I agree with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">ou</span> on some parts but why must everything have something to do with God ? Not everyone believes in God .I am one of them I believe in myself.<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">AgainI</span> do think along the lines as you do that home is work but I believe in myself and not God."</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">I didn't respond to it at the time because the blog wasn't active, but I didn't want to put it through either and not respond to it. I wish the person had left an email address so that I could write them personally, but they did not.</span><br /><br />While I don't feel obligated to answer every question I get, something about this one sorta got to me. And I've thought on it off and on since I received it.<br /><br />Why must everything have something to do with God?<br /><br />I went back and reread the post and while I do mention God and prayer, it certainly didn't feel like the theme of what I had written.<br /><br />But I am so honored that someone read it that way.<br /><br />My diligent, constant prayer is that someone may see God's light shine through me or my family.<br /><br />I want God in every thought. In every action. In every inaction. In every word that escapes my lips and the ones that I'm able to hold back.<br /><br />I want God in every breath I take.<br /><br />I see God in the clouds and in the wind and rain. I see Him in the stunning blue sky and the rays of sunshine streaming though the leaves. I see Him in the dew on the grass and in the new spring buds on the trees. I see Him in the splendor of the leaves blowing off the trees in late fall.<br /><br />I hear Him in the rushing of a river and the crash of the ocean waves. I hear Him in the singing of the birds and the giggles of little children. I hear Him in the quiet of the seasons first snowfall.<br /><br />I feel God in the quiet of the morning and the quiet of the night. I feel Him as we gather at church or with friends. I feel Him so strongly when I watch my husband be the father to our daughters that I'd always hoped. I feel Him when things are going perfectly. And I feel Him when things feel like they're falling apart. I feel Him when I'm on my knees praying and sometimes even when I'm writing a blog post.<br /><br />So why must everything have something to do with God? Because everything <em><strong>does</strong></em> have something to do with God.<br /><br />I hope that anonymous somehow finds their way back here and can feel the prayers for them. Knowing God is unlike anything you'll ever be able to find on your own.<br /><br />May the peace of God surround you this and every day.My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-10426252758011621082009-09-22T18:18:00.002-04:002009-09-22T18:41:04.894-04:00Time IssuesIt seems you can't open a mom blog anywhere that doesn't mention time. And more than likely, lack of time. There are whole websites dedicated to organization and time management. And obviously different things work for different people.<br /><br />This is an area with which I still struggle. Truth is, I tend to be awfully stubborn and when something "works" I never want to let it go. So I can have a beautiful schedule down with most things in my life sailing along and then a big change happens and I struggle to squish the old schedule into the new plan. How does that work? Usually not so well.<br /><br />Take for instance last fall. Things were going along quite nicely. I had a (typewritten) schedule for the younger girls and I. And then on October 10th, my oldest daughter came home with a ring on her finger. She had gotten engaged. I plan to write some about planning a (quite large) wedding on a budget, but for the topic of this post lets just say that it threw our schedule off just a wee bit.<br /><br />And while the wedding was beautiful and moving and more than any of us had hoped it would be, it is over. Truth be told, it was over on May 23rd. And we've still not gotten back into a good groove. Now granted, there was packing and moving and bedroom shifts and painting (still to be done) and furniture to buy and emotions to try to handle. But it was May 23rd. So while there is still more than "normal" to do around here, it's time to get a grip. And the only way I know to do that is to prioritize. <br /><br />Of course, God is first in my life. Then my family. But I'm not specifically talking about that kind of prioritization. I'm talking about *after* that.<br /><br />And since we almost never eat out, I'm going to try to start back with a menu plan. It creates such stress trying to figure out dinner at the last minute. Why I allow myself to get out of the habit of menu planning is beyond me. <br /><br />So that's step one. <br /><br />Wish me luck.My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-33391414769885301512009-09-21T10:52:00.003-04:002009-09-21T11:10:17.237-04:00Does God Nudge You?Our sermon at Church yesterday was on prayer. The various ways we pray and the things for which we ask. It was moving and powerful. Our Pastor also talked about how he feels that God nudges him from time to time. And maybe more often than that and he simply doesn't notice it. But that many times when he feels that nudge and answers whatever small seeming call, he is enormously blessed and grateful. And how important it is to be mindful of the nudges of God.<br /><br />It's happened to me a few times that I've gotten "close" to a blogger and then they've closed up shop. Sometimes saying why, sometimes not. I may have never left a comment on their writings but I've felt ridiculously close with them. Maybe prayed for them in various situations. Certainly laughed with them and rooted them on in areas of their lives that they've been willing to share. And when they were gone it was almost like I mourned. I missed them.<br /><br />To all that have written me saying that you missed me, prayed for me, and hoped I'd come back....thank you. I hope I responded to all of you via email. I certainly tried to do so. I can't understand why anyone would be interested in the things that I write. But I suppose that all is not for us to understand. <br /><br />I don't feel worthy to be looked at as an older woman with any kind of wisdom. The truth is that I'm 43 and have a daughter that is grown and married, along with a teenage daughter and a preteen daughter. So I suppose that while I feel youthful and ignorant in many ways of life, I might have something to share. Even if it's nothing but what NOT to do as learned by me the hard way.<br /><br />I've felt a nudge for a while. To come back here. To write a little as I feel called to do so. And I won't ignore the nudge anymore.<br /><br />Thank you all for the beautiful emails you've written me. I've missed you too.My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-14851641885127317772008-08-30T14:59:00.003-04:002008-08-30T15:26:20.232-04:00Reasonably Healthy Lunch IdeasMy middle daughter, Julia, was 13 last year. She decided that she would NOT carry a lunch box to her co-op. Now since she only went one (full) day a week, I didn't make too much of it. I'd send her some (healthy) peanut butter spread on crackers and a water bottle. Just making sure she had a big breakfast and supper on that day.<br /><br />This year she is going 3 days a week. All day long. Something had to change. I talked with other mothers and we brainstormed a few things. All are more than agreeable to my middle (and now youngest as well) daughter.<br /><br />First, there is no need for a lunch box. I pack a small cooler for them both together and put it in the co-op kitchen. Whenever they get hungry between classes, they can just go grab what they want from their personal "refridgerator". And they don't have to lug anything around.<br /><br />And here is some of the ideas we've come up with to fill it. Bear in mind that the girls only have 15 minutes between each class, so the snacks have to be pretty small.<br /><br />*Half sandwich (we call these "bendovers" cause you "bend" the bread "over")<br />(Preferably some type of minimally processed meat on a whole grain bread.)<br /><br />*Big huge pickle (cut into spears cause the girls have braces now...I buy them in those huge glass jars that they have at Sams)<br /><br />*Box of raisins<br /><br />*String cheese<br /><br />*Whole grain crackers (with or without non hydrogenated peanut butter)<br /><br />*Fiber One Bars<br /><br />*Non-sweetened applesauce cups<br /><br />*Non-sweetened fruit cups<br /><br />*Yogurt<br /><br />*Nuts<br /><br />*Organic chocolate milk<br /><br />*Bottled Water<br /><br />~~~When the weather turns cooler I plan to put a thermos of something warm as well. Homemade soup or chili. Or even just some hot chocolate.<br /><br />They do have a use of a microwave at the co-op but there time is so limited that I don't think they'd have time to use it. Especially if there were someone ahead of them. So that's why I've not included things that need to be warmed or heated.<br /><br />I'd love to hear others ideas!My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-72188851927342154972008-08-30T10:44:00.003-04:002008-08-30T11:08:29.604-04:00And The Winner Is...I'd like to quickly thank you all SO MUCH for participating in my 2 year blogoversary give-a-way. You all made this so fun and really memorable event for me. So thank you.<br /><br />Unfortunately there could only be one winner. But I do encourage all of you to consider <a href="http://www.designsbyrs.com/">RS Designs</a> when you need a blog makeover. I just can't say enough about their work. And their customer service is top of the line. Thank you Revka. :)<br /><br />And the winner, chosen by a random number generator, is...<br /><br /><a href="http://joshuamichaelkelley.blogspot.com/">Jana Kelley</a>!<br /><br />I will be emailing Jana shortly. Should she not respond in 3 days, another winner will be announced.<br /><br />Thanks again for all the fun. And congratulations Jana!My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-43062209722651883082008-08-25T11:31:00.003-04:002008-08-25T11:34:16.469-04:00Breaking News!FINALLY!<br /><br />Today, on my sweet, precious middle daughter's 14th birthday, I finally got a second wind on my walk/jog.<br /><br />And I jogged 3/4 mile. <br /><br />Nonstop.<br /><br />Now back to your regularly scheduled program. :)My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-44896939730550521032008-08-18T08:58:00.003-04:002008-08-18T09:13:26.160-04:00Menu-Plan-Monday w/Give-A-Way!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzqRBw5KYFQaNBlIg6B0UKcxXfKTeKjsXWqUmBumrkpy5akjrBIlxOngvyulcU9CHYfNTCpv_HH7QRCxPKdspfkXDTOUyQo4GVMAyS7Bl4PUMYaKXyT3PynCcYjIvdRm0zL3o/s1600-h/MPM.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222864570883178818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzqRBw5KYFQaNBlIg6B0UKcxXfKTeKjsXWqUmBumrkpy5akjrBIlxOngvyulcU9CHYfNTCpv_HH7QRCxPKdspfkXDTOUyQo4GVMAyS7Bl4PUMYaKXyT3PynCcYjIvdRm0zL3o/s320/MPM.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Well, it looks like it will be yet another week of simple foods. And not much home time. A dearly beloved Great Uncle went home to the Lord Saturday night. He had been sick for several months so it was not a shock, but still so very sad. He leaves behind a wife of over 60 years. My mind won't wrap around being with someone for that length of time and then them just suddenly being gone.<br /><br />We also have several things that we must get done for back to school. And many of the fall activities are starting back up now too. So it would have been a busy week anyway. The loss just adds another element to it.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Monday</span></strong> - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Crockpot</span> beef brisket (didn't get to it last week) with vegetables<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Tuesday</span></strong> - Will be out at family events<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Wednesday</span></strong> - Leftover brisket sandwiches with sweet potato fries<br /><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong>Thursday</strong></span> - <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Quinoa-and-Black-Beans/Detail.aspx"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Quinoa</span> and Black Beans</a>, salad<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Friday</span></strong> - Pizza night! Whole grain crust and as much vegetables as I can pile on top, with homemade pesto! The basil is still going crazy in the garden.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;">And if you're at all interested in a new, fabulous blog design, don't forget to </span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/posts.g?blogID=30488975"><span style="color:#3333ff;">check out the contest I'm running!</span></a><span style="color:#3333ff;"><br /></span><br />For more menu ideas, be sure to check out <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">Laura's Blog!</a>My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-55153468774639195702008-08-15T08:56:00.001-04:002008-08-29T14:13:04.566-04:00Frugal Friday Give-A-Way!<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Contest is now over. Winner will be picked and announced soon! Stay tuned. And good luck!</span></strong><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7AXQX1EjG3mHqD2avDXQXLfo5YlqXkIE_sm2yI7O-ph3mnCi8AqXFU7wZ8k5L8pMvF-evC_82-br1TJ1ItBnDTKgzyA54ctrD4lesnq_zVHtyoPZsGSdvLMxUSGvHXWx3KxDB/s1600-h/Frugal+Fridays.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203573918689313218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7AXQX1EjG3mHqD2avDXQXLfo5YlqXkIE_sm2yI7O-ph3mnCi8AqXFU7wZ8k5L8pMvF-evC_82-br1TJ1ItBnDTKgzyA54ctrD4lesnq_zVHtyoPZsGSdvLMxUSGvHXWx3KxDB/s320/Frugal+Fridays.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Tell me, what is more frugal than something free?!<br /><br />I'm so happy to announce a very special give-a-way right here on my little blog.<br /><br />In celebration of my 2 year blogoversary, <a href="http://www.designsbyrs.com/">Revka</a> of RS Designs has very generously offered to give away a $60 credit toward any of her custom websites or blog designs. That means that if your choice is under $60, it's absolutely <strong>FREE</strong>! Anything over $60 you simply pay the difference.<br /><br />I first saw Revka's work during a blog carnival. I didn't win the carnival, but decided to contract with her for the blog design you see here. Revka is very professional. She somehow manages to take care of her family and do this incredible work on the side. She is timely, polite and very helpful to those of us that may not be too computer savy.<br /><br />I've gotten so many compliments on the blog since Revka got ahold of it. And I'm just thrilled that I now get to participate in one of her give-a-ways!<br /><br />There is even "free for the takin" (as we say in Tennessee) buttons and badges at her site! And look how pretty!<br /><br /><a href="http://designsbyrs.com/"><img height="80" alt="Proud Mommy Blogger" src="http://www.designsbyrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/mommy-blogger_-blue-circlespng.png" width="120" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://designsbyrs.com/"><img height="60" alt="Proud Blogger" src="http://www.designsbyrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/proud-blogger_-blue-allstarpng.png" width="120" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://designsbyrs.com/"><img height="31" alt="RS designs - custom designs at affordable prices" src="http://www.designsbyrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/pink2006_88x31.jpg" width="88" /></a><br />(Ohhh, I'm keeping this one!)<br /><br />They even have free templates sometimes!<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Red Tape:<br /></span><br />To enter:<br /><br />1. Just go to Revka's site and look around, come back here and tell me something you love in the comment section of this post. It's that easy.<br /><br /><strong>and/or<br /></strong><br />2. Sign up for her newsletter on her website (and let me know in the comment section that you have done so). That way even if you don't win, you'll be kept up on other give-a-ways and discounts. It's a win/win!<br /><br /><strong>and/or</strong><br /><br />3. Write your own post about this give-a-way and link back here to this post, letting me know in the comments that you've done so.<br /><br />Do one of these things for one entry. Two for two entries. Or all 3 for 3 entries in this contest! Remember, you have to mention it in the comment of this post for it to "count" toward an entry. How else will I know you've done it?<br /><br />Contest open to anyone with a blogging platform that allows you to customize your template yourself. Contest runs from blog posting time (ie- now!)on August 15, 2008 thru noon EST August 29, 2008.<br /><br />Winner will be chosen at random by Saturday August 30 and notified by email (so please be sure to leave a valid email address or blog address that has your email listed). Winner has 3 days to respond to email after which a new winner will be selected.<br /><br />Good luck to all of you!<br /><br />For more frugal fun, be sure to check out <a href="http://www.biblicalwomanhoodonline.com/blog.htm">http://www.biblicalwomanhoodonline.com/blog.htm</a>!My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-32489665782105829182008-08-14T13:27:00.006-04:002008-08-14T13:54:37.768-04:00Running, Eating and Aging, Oh My!I've been blogging here for a little over 2 years and I suppose over the course of time things just naturally change. <br /><br />I don't feel old. Truly. But the harsh truth is...I'm not getting any younger. And I feel almost as if I'm at a crossroads in my life. It seems that people my age either start to really kick it up a notch as far as health and lifestyle are concerned, or they get old. <br /><br />Yes, yes I realize that the years go by either way. But there is a difference in growing older and getting old. At least to me there is.<br /><br />I want to be as healthy and active as possible for as long as possible. <br /><br />So my husband and I started walking a couple of months ago. As a side note, I don't recommend STARTING a walking program in the middle of summer in the South. To say that it's hot, even late in the evening, is an understatement. To put it mildly. But we* started out strolling and pretty quickly picked it up to a fairly fast walk. An 18 minute mile is a fast walk, right? Don't laugh.<br /><br />We go 1½ - 2 miles total. Now we're* up to running a third of it. Any google search turns up many "Couch to 5K in 8-9 weeks" programs online. I'm taking it a little slower. But I do plan to do it eventually. And truthfully, I'm proud of what I've accomplished. <br /><br />The thing is, I ran in high school. So I FEEL like a runner. But I just not anymore. I hope to be again. But right now, no.<br /><br />But we* are trying. And that's a step in the right direction. Pun intended.<br /><br />We're still eating the green smoothies almost every day. I just don't think there is any argument about the nutrition in them. The other foods that we eat are pretty simple. But the goal is to try to make each bit as nutrient dense as possible. We fair at this sometimes. But it's a journey. And one that I feel blessed to be undertaking.<br /><br />*Please note that when I say "we" or "we're" I'm talking about me. My husband can run circles around me. But it feels better to say "we".My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-24632428255302345232008-08-11T09:12:00.003-04:002008-08-11T09:33:22.099-04:00Menu Plan Monday w/give-a-way teaser!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzqRBw5KYFQaNBlIg6B0UKcxXfKTeKjsXWqUmBumrkpy5akjrBIlxOngvyulcU9CHYfNTCpv_HH7QRCxPKdspfkXDTOUyQo4GVMAyS7Bl4PUMYaKXyT3PynCcYjIvdRm0zL3o/s1600-h/MPM.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222864570883178818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzqRBw5KYFQaNBlIg6B0UKcxXfKTeKjsXWqUmBumrkpy5akjrBIlxOngvyulcU9CHYfNTCpv_HH7QRCxPKdspfkXDTOUyQo4GVMAyS7Bl4PUMYaKXyT3PynCcYjIvdRm0zL3o/s320/MPM.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Just when I think I'm busy, life kicks into high gear and I know what "busy" means! We, like most others, are getting our back to school gear in order. With a high-schooler this has new significance for us homeschoolers. Or maybe just for me. :) Lots more organization and paperwork. And I really need to find time to get it all together this week. The sooner the better.<br /><br />The garden is also coming in so I'm processing (and by that I mean cooking or freezing, I don't can) lots of delicious foods.<br /><br />We're still working on eating very healthy, though we did kinda blow it last week as it was my <em>BABY'S</em> *11th* birthday. Unbelievable. So we had too much junk food and cookie cake and I know this week will be harder to settle back into with the nutritious foods.<br /><br />We're also still walking/jogging. I will do a separate post about that. I think it deserves it's own spot.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">OH! And I also want to encourage all of you to check back here this coming Friday (the 15th). I'm going to have a pretty sweet give-a-way in celebration of my 2 years of blogging here. I'm not going to say what it is, but I will tell you that it's something that many of you would LOVE to win.<br /></span><br />With this flurry of excitement going on, the menu is going to be as simple as I can possibly make it.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Monday</span></strong> - Tilapia, big garden salad<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Tuesday</span></strong> - Fish sandwiches on sprouted wheat bread. Sauteed sweet potatoes<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Wednesday</span></strong> - <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Quinoa-and-Black-Beans/Detail.aspx">Quinoa and Black Beans</a>, salad<br /><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong>Thursday</strong></span> - Crockpot brisket with vegetables.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Friday</span></strong> - Pizza night! Whole grain crust and as much vegetables as I can pile on top, with homemade pesto! The basil is going crazy in the garden.<br /><br />I hope to put up pictures of the pesto, but it's not my recipe. I found the one that we love the most on AllRecipes.com.<br /><br /><a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Pesto-Sauce/Detail.aspx">Pesto</a><br /><br />I usually make at least a double batch. We eat it on <em>everything</em>.<br /><br />For more menu ideas, be sure to check out <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">Laura's Blog!</a>My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-2793298317144293252008-07-28T09:17:00.003-04:002008-07-28T09:37:56.943-04:00Menu-Plan-Monday<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzqRBw5KYFQaNBlIg6B0UKcxXfKTeKjsXWqUmBumrkpy5akjrBIlxOngvyulcU9CHYfNTCpv_HH7QRCxPKdspfkXDTOUyQo4GVMAyS7Bl4PUMYaKXyT3PynCcYjIvdRm0zL3o/s1600-h/MPM.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222864570883178818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzqRBw5KYFQaNBlIg6B0UKcxXfKTeKjsXWqUmBumrkpy5akjrBIlxOngvyulcU9CHYfNTCpv_HH7QRCxPKdspfkXDTOUyQo4GVMAyS7Bl4PUMYaKXyT3PynCcYjIvdRm0zL3o/s320/MPM.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />It has been <em>so</em> hot here. Not only hot, but the humidity! If anyone thinks the humidity doesn't matter, it's because you've not experienced it. Trust me. We've had afternoon thunderstorms almost daily for so long that I can't recall the last time I've had to water the garden. And then about the time we go out for our walk/jog, it's just so incredibly humid that it's like breathing through water! I come home and my hair looks like I've been in a rainstorm.<br /><br />Speaking of walking/jogging, I got up to 2½ miles Saturday! Mine is mostly walking, but in my defense it's a <em>really</em> fast walk (and it was hot!). My husband is now jogging over a mile of it! The plan is to continue to pretty much walk (3-4 times a week) this week and possibly next. The week after that I'd like to start incorporating more jogging. I'm really pleased with it. It's such a tension reliever and a great bonding time with my sweet husband.<br /><br />We had guests yesterday and at outside and made entirely too much meat. So now we've got lots of leftovers with which to work. I hope to begin to put up some prices with the menu's in the next several weeks.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Monday</span></strong> - Leftover pork chops with sauteed vegetables, big salad<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Tuesday</span></strong> - White beans, cornbread and sliced onion (at the request of my husband)<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Wednesday</span></strong> - <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Quinoa-and-Black-Beans/Detail.aspx">Quinoa and Black Beans</a> (didn't get to it last week), salad<br /><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong>Thursday</strong></span> - Leftover beans, mashed, in a whole grain wrap with cheese and fixins (lettuce, tomato, sour cream, etc)<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Friday</span></strong> - Pizza night! Whole grain crust and as much vegetables as I can pile on top, with homemade pesto! The basil is going crazy in the garden.<br /><br />For more menu ideas, be sure to check out <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">Laura's Blog!</a>My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30488975.post-65280583759314641602008-07-21T08:58:00.002-04:002008-07-21T09:13:46.656-04:00Menu-Plan-Monday<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzqRBw5KYFQaNBlIg6B0UKcxXfKTeKjsXWqUmBumrkpy5akjrBIlxOngvyulcU9CHYfNTCpv_HH7QRCxPKdspfkXDTOUyQo4GVMAyS7Bl4PUMYaKXyT3PynCcYjIvdRm0zL3o/s1600-h/MPM.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzqRBw5KYFQaNBlIg6B0UKcxXfKTeKjsXWqUmBumrkpy5akjrBIlxOngvyulcU9CHYfNTCpv_HH7QRCxPKdspfkXDTOUyQo4GVMAyS7Bl4PUMYaKXyT3PynCcYjIvdRm0zL3o/s320/MPM.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222864570883178818" /></a><br /><br />Well, the little get-together for my sister turned out really well. We had an additional 5 people at the last minute, but we somehow pulled it off with just enough food to not have any left to nibble on later! Which was a *good* thing.<br /><br />I've found that it's super important for me to have good healthy foods here to eat, because when I get really hungry, if there is nothing else, I'll go for the junk. So I'm working on that this week.<br /><br />We've also started to walk/jog. I hesitate to even mention this because I feel silly at my age/fitness level trying to start to be a runner. But it's something that I did years ago and something that I want to do again. We've been at it for a couple of weeks and we are doing 2 miles a night now. It takes a little over 40 minutes. <br /><br />I hope to get my sidebar updated at some point, but it's been (as usual) busy here. Last week BOTH of my younger girls got braces. They put them on in "phases" at this particular orthodontist so we go back tomorrow for "phase 2". So the updating may take a little longer.<br /><br />Anyway, on to the menu. Still no prices, though I'm working on it. <br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Monday</span></strong> - Leftover whole wheat homemade pizza, a big salad<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Tuesday</span></strong> - Grilled chicken breast and sauteed vegetables over brown rice<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Wednesday</span></strong> - <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Quinoa-and-Black-Beans/Detail.aspx">Quinoa and Black Beans</a> (didn't get to it last week), salad<br /><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong>Thursday</strong></span> - Youth Advisory Council Meeting and they always bring food. I have no idea. <br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">Friday</span></strong> - Leftover chicken/vegetables in a whole-wheat wrap. Salad<br /><br />For more menu ideas, be sure to check out <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">Laura's Blog!</a>My name is Michelle.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02649101060281144314noreply@blogger.com5